The devastating Lahaina fires prompted reactive focus on disaster preparedness. To reassure citizens, the words “public safety” are now repeatedly spoken. What proactive preventative measures are being addressed? Fire is not the only disaster.
The timing of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s updated Oahu flood map is perfect. Newly affected parties, be aware — this could be you. Halawa Valley Estates, bordered by Halawa Stream, was added to FEMA’s flood map in 2014. At that time, it had been 25 years since the last maintenance was performed. It is now 2024, and still waiting. Blatant neglect has revealed the vital need for proper reinforcement of the stream’s banks. Without it, already shifting land will easily be lost.
Lahaina has hope for recovery. Halawa Valley Estates? Simple — no land, no recovery.
City, state and federal governments all share responsibility for this stream. What then is the reason for no action? Knowing yet leaving our homes and families at risk is unforgivable.
Lynn Wong
Aiea
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
In the spirit of this season, take a moment to count your blessings. Recent times might’ve been tough — politically, economically or otherwise — but surely there are positives.
Here’s your chance to reflect on what you appreciate. Today through Dec. 9, we’ll be accepting “Count Your Blessings” letters (150 words max) or essays (500-600 words). A collection of these will run in mid-December.
Email to letters@staradvertiser.com; or send to 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Bldg. 2, room 200, Honolulu 96813, c/o Letters.
EXPRESS YOURSELF
The Honolulu Star-Advertiser welcomes all opinions. Want your voice to be heard? Submit a letter to the editor.
>> Write us: We welcome letters up to 150 words, and guest columns of 500-600 words. We reserve the right to edit for clarity and length. Include your name, address and daytime phone number.
>> Mail: Letters to the Editor, Honolulu Star-Advertiser 7 Waterfront Plaza, 500 Ala Moana, Suite #7-500 Honolulu, HI 96813
>> Contact: 529-4831 (phone), letters@staradvertiser.com, staradvertiser.com/editorial/submit-letter
