I attended my first Maui County Planning Commission meeting June 23. My interest was the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources proposed modifications at Big Beach.

The hearing room was filling up and by 9 a.m., it was standing room only. I watched as citizen after citizen signed in to give testimony. And the room continued to fill. Consequently, the meeting was delayed for the second time. It was obvious that there were dozens of people outside wanting to listen.

Members on the agenda were late. Meeting recess … again. The commission decided to recess in order to find a TV monitor, then place it outside so those unable to fit inside could hear.

Finally, about 11 a.m., the first agenda item was heard, expansion of Grand Wailea. This was not why so many had gathered. Fortunately, this item was addressed (though not settled) and finally the DLNR agenda item began.

At that point, I had to leave, but in my opinion, an agenda item that has had previous media exposure and which is a hot button issue, the commission needs to schedule the meeting in a room designed to accommodate more than a few dozen people. And, have TV monitors available and ready to go.

What I witnessed was more government ineptness by everyone.

I realize the planning commissioners are all unpaid volunteers. But this was a complete waste of my time.

Either get your acts together, or get someone in there who can organize.

Pamela Alexander
Wailuku