Committee advances 2.9‑acre Wupe conservation easement to protect burials and cultural landscape

The Zoning and Planning Committee on June 25 recommended adoption of Resolution 26‑151 CD1, a measure to use Clean Water and Natural Lands Fund monies to acquire a perpetual conservation easement over a 2.9‑acre parcel in Wupe to preserve registered burials and a cultural landscape.

Presenters from Pu Honua O Lupe described an archaeological inventory survey completed in 2024 that documented two rock shelters with burials, a trail segment, and two modified ceremonial pits; presenters interpreted the site as a cultural landscape requiring preservation in place. Pu Honua O Lupe urged the council to protect the parcel and continue community‑led stewardship and cultural programming.

The CD1 provides for a conservation easement purchase not to exceed $7 million — capped pending an independent appraisal commissioned by the city — and requires due diligence, a preservation plan, and consultation with lineal descendants and community partners. DHLM and other community witnesses said stewardship plans, educational programming and community workdays will guide long‑term care.

Committee action: following testimony and presentations, the committee amended Resolution 26‑151 to the hand‑carried CD1 and reported the measure out for adoption (no objections noted in committee). The CD1 requires the easement appraisal and directs the administration to proceed with due diligence and to incorporate stewardship commitments into the easement terms.

Provenance: topicintro SEG 1250; topfinish SEG 1740.