July 8, 1999

Dear Senator Akaka,

As you know, I represent the 42^nd House District which includes Makakilo, Kapolei, Ewa, Honouliuli, Village Park, Royal Kunia and Kunia. Over the past several years, numerous residents of Village Park and Royal Kunia have pointed out the high incidence of birth defects and learning disorders among their children. These communities are on former agricultural land and are adjacent to the Oahu Sugar superfund site at Kunia. Many people have reported soil from Kunia being used during construction in Village Park, as well as water possibly contaminated with pesticides being used for dust control.

During the last legislative session, we appropriated $220,000 to fund soil testing in Village Park and West Loch Fairways. You are well aware of our economic situation, and passage of House Bill 1138 was a major accomplishment.

The people of Village Park, Kunia, Royal Kunia, West Loch Fairways, and the neighboring communities need your help. The Environmental Protection Agency should investigate:

1. The health impact of the Kunia superfund site on groundwater and soil in Village Park, Kunia, Royal Kunia, West Loch Fairways, and adjacent areas;
2. Whether chemicals, and contaminated soil and water from the Kunia site where improperly disposed of in these communities;
3. Whether the Kunia superfund site should be expanded to include Village Park and Royal Kunia;
4. The health impact of constructing homes on former agricultural lands contaminated by chemicals such as DBCP, EDB, TCP, etc.

Our constituents deserve to know the truth. Please contact me at 808-586-8500 if I can be of any further assistance.

Sincerely,