MEDIA RELEASE

The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) has scheduled community meetings statewide in May to provide opportunity for public input on the development of the 2012-2017 State Historic Preservation Plan.

“Historic sites are tangible evidence of a colorful, rich heritage and provide the community with a sense of continuity,” said Pua Aiu, SHPD administrator. “The programs and services offered by SHPD are designed to promote the use and maintenance of historic properties for the education, inspiration, pleasure and enrichment of Hawaii’s citizens and visitors. Community input is essential to help set priorities for the State Historic Preservation Plan and will guide actions over the next five years.”

The meetings will begin with a presentation on historic preservation issues in present-day Hawaii. Attendees will be invited to share their own perceptions, including feedback on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and challenges for historic preservation.

Specifically, participants will have the opportunity to contribute to discussion on a variety of topics, including:

* Priorities for historic preservation in Hawaii and individual communities
* Key participants
* Existing community resources
* Identifying what other resources are needed

The development and implementation of a comprehensive statewide historic preservation plan is one of the responsibilities of SHPD, under grant funding it receives from the National Park Service (NPS).

“When meetings in every county are completed, we will have a clearer perspective of historic preservation issues and concerns throughout the state,” said Faith Sereno Rex, president of SMS Consulting, which is the lead contractor responsible for completing the 2012-2017 State Historic Preservation Plan. “We also hope to re-energize the community to be more active in historic preservation activities. When people are involved in the planning process they are more likely to stay active through implementation.“

The meeting schedule follows:

* Lihue, Kauai
Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School
5-8 p.m. Wednesday, May 2

* Kahului, Maui
Maui High School
5-8 p.m. Tuesday, May 8

* Hilo, Hawaii
Waiakea High School
5-8 p.m. Tuesday, May 15

* Kona, Hawaii
Kealakehe Intermediate School cafeteria
5-8 p.m. Thursday, May 17

* Oahu
Farrington High School
5-8 p.m. Tuesday, May 22

Light refreshments will be served.

Community members may also share their thoughts through the following options:

Website: www.hawaiihistoricpreservation.com

E-mail: historicpreservation@smshawaii.com

Mail: SMS, 1042 Fort Street Mall, Suite 200, Honolulu, HI 96813

Phone: Toll free at 1-877-535-5767 (ask for Renee)

— Find out more:
www.hawaiihistoricpreservation.com