Letter: Rules would restrict access to Maunakea

The proposed administrative rules for access to Maunakea are due to be voted on by the University of Hawaii Board of Regents on Aug. 30. There are a number of heavy-handed rules that could be used to severely limit Hawaii island residents’ access to Maunakea. These rules are available on the Office of Maunakea Management (OMKM) website, and include:

>> Access by private vehicles may be restricted by utilizing shuttle vehicles in lieu of private vehicles.

>> Limiting the number of vehicles allowed access.

>> Fees for entrance and parking.

>> Installing gates.

>> Mandatory cultural orientations, possibly with every admittance.

The OMKM announced on Aug. 9 that it will conduct a study on the public and commercial tour capacity for Maunakea. No action should be taken on these rules until this study is complete and the public has been apprised of its results.

Thomas Bearden

Ninole, Hawaii island

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