81
CINDY ELLEN RUSSELL / CRUSSELL@STARADVERTISER.COM / SEPT 2009
Ahu O Laka sandbar was busy with Labor Day weekend visitors.
The state Board of Land and Natural Resources voted today to impose a three-year ban on alcohol at the Kaneohe sandbar during three designated holiday weekends.
The rule would apply on Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day weekend. It will be forwarded to the governor’s office for final approval. The rule will sunset three years after taking effect. During that time, officials will monitor the effectiveness of the rule.
During the Land Board meeting today, Ed Underwood, administrator of the Division of Boating and Recreation, said the sandbar, Ahu o Laka, became a family-friendly place after the 120-day emergency rule was imposed last year, curbing unwanted activity.
The emergency rule went into effect in June for a 120-day period following the death of a 26-year-old man who was involved in a fight at Heeia Kea Small Boat Harbor.
Opponents said the new rule will only push disorderly conduct to other parts of Kaneohe Bay and elsewhere such as Waikiki, Maunalua Bay and Kaena Point.
