01-31-2007, 02:03 PM
There are already laws in place to protect endangered species, watershed, water quality and etc. The problem is a lack of will to enforce the regulations that are already there. There is a list of organizations that review permit applications at the Building Department. Conspicuously missing is the Department of Land and Natural Resources that is charged with doing all the non-Public Health related environmental action.
The problem with zoning and building in general is that the county collects more taxes on finished homes than on raw land. Ever noticed how the only government job that gets done on time is the tax assesor notice in your mail as soon as you are finaled?
The problem is not unique to Puna. Why were people allowed to build homes in flood susceptible areas of New Orleans? California is scrambling to find money to upgrade levies around homes built in flood plains. The answer is all local government desire to collect tax dollars.
Clearing more than 1 acre requires a Grubbing Permit so check and file a complaint if there is none. Ask why DLNR does not get involved with permitting. It is your government and it is up to you to make it work right and to make noise if it doesn't. Don't stop with posting on the forum. Write emails and letters to your representatives.
The problem with zoning and building in general is that the county collects more taxes on finished homes than on raw land. Ever noticed how the only government job that gets done on time is the tax assesor notice in your mail as soon as you are finaled?
The problem is not unique to Puna. Why were people allowed to build homes in flood susceptible areas of New Orleans? California is scrambling to find money to upgrade levies around homes built in flood plains. The answer is all local government desire to collect tax dollars.
Clearing more than 1 acre requires a Grubbing Permit so check and file a complaint if there is none. Ask why DLNR does not get involved with permitting. It is your government and it is up to you to make it work right and to make noise if it doesn't. Don't stop with posting on the forum. Write emails and letters to your representatives.
Larry