Harry Kim

Barbara J. Kossow

RoyManaging
Takemoto
Deputy
Director
Managing Director

Mayor

County of Hawai‘i
Office of the Mayor
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553
KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokālole Hwy., Bldg C • Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
(808) 323-4444 • Fax (808) 323-4440

December 26, 2019
Dr. Noe Noe Wong-Wilson
Mauna Kupuna
Maunakea Access Road
Hawai'i Island
Dear Noe Noe,
RE:

Resolution to Open Maunakea Access Road

Please review the following offer being made to the Maunakea Protectors to
open the Maunakea Access Road.
The TMT Project has informed State officials and Mayor Kim that there will be no
attempt to deliver construction equipment to the Maunakea site anytime soon. I, Mayor
Kim give you my personal assurances that no attempt will be made to move TMT
construction equipment up the mountain for a minimum of two months. During this time,
at least until the end of February 2020, the protectors are requested to move the
Kupuna tent which is currently on the roadway to the side of the road. This will provide
open access to the general public to drive up the road to the Maunakea Visitor Center
or to the summit region. This clearance of the roadway will help ensure the safety of
visitors and protectors.
During this time, State and County agencies and law enforcement will agree to
stand down. There will be no attempt by State of Hawai'i law enforcement agencies or
Hawai'i County Police Department to remove the protectors’ encampment from the
sides of Maunakea Access Road or from Pu’uhonua o Pu’uhuluhulu.

County of Hawai‘i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.

 December 26, 2019
Page 2
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It is hoped that during this peaceful time, communication between government
officials, the astronomy community, community leaders and protectors will continue. I,
Mayor Kim will continue to work with TMT to extend the two-month stand-down period if
necessary.
Please respond to this offer as soon as possible.
Sincerely,

Harry Kim
Mayor

County of Hawai`i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.