The Maui County voter initiative proposes a ban on the cultivation of genetically engineered organisms, allowing for amendments when necessary studies and public hearings are conducted. It establishes a framework for case-by-case assessments by the Maui County Council to ensure environmental and public health standards are met. The initiative emphasizes respect for all parties involved and the importance of participation in the decision-making process.

1. MAUI COUNTY VOTER INITIATIVE
--- GENETICALLY ENGINEERED ORGANISMS ---
“Should the proposed initiative prohibiting the cultivation or
reproduction of genetically engineered organisms within the County
of Maui, which may be amended or repealed as to a specific person
or entity when required environmental and public health impact
studies, public hearings, a two thirds vote and a determination by the
County Council that such operation or practice meets certain
standards, and which establishes civil and criminal penalties, be
adopted for Maui County?”
Moloka`i and Lāna`i are the only Islands I have not visited.
Ho`olehua, Moloka`i, County of Maui is a special place for me.
Years ago I sought counsel from Walter Ritte. Uncle Walter said to
me, “Clif, your willingness to come to Moloka`i to help with the
cause is appreciated. Moloka`i is much too dangerous for you.” I
asked why. Uncle Walter replied, “You will understand. When the
time is right, you will know.”
Over the years Uncle Walter and I shared our thoughts on many
subjects, water, genetically grown taro, agriculture and Hawaiian
culture, among many others. I called Uncle Walter one day and
asked, “Uncle Walter, when I visualize you and as I see you in the
media you appear often angry and speak loudly. When we speak on
the telephone there is warmth and softness in your voice.” Uncle
Walter’s reply, “Clif, my passion and commitment often are worn on
my sleeve. That is me as I advocate for causes I believe in.”

2. Recently I called Uncle Walter to ask permission to come to Moloka`i.
Uncle Walter replied, “You need not ask for permission. You are
always welcome. What have you learned?” My reply, “To
understand the culture and the people one must understand the
word “respect”.
Moloka`i and the Maui County Voter Initiative have been on my
mind these few days.
Yesterday, September 22, 2014, I spoke with Mr. Duane Seabolt,
Treasurer of the Citizens Against the Maui County Farming Ban.
Mr. Seabolt and I came to agreement on 2 fundamental issues. First,
that we are free to express our thoughts as guaranteed to us by the
First Amendment to the United States Constitution. Second, that to
speak in terms of “absolutes” is not representative of the facts.
The Maui County Voter Initiative on Genetically Modified
Organisms does not speak in terms of “absolutes”.
The Maui County Voter Initiative on Genetically Modified
Organisms provides the legislative structure for the County of Maui,
the Maui County Council, the Agricultural Businesses operating in
Maui County, the Farmers of Maui County and the Residents of Maui
County to participate on a case by case basis to determine whether or
not an operation or practice meets relevant and applicable standards
for the environment, human health and food safety.

3. The Maui County Voter Initiative on Genetically Modified
Organisms provides that a determination by the Maui County
Council will be based on studies, public hearings, and a two thirds
vote of the Council.
The Maui County Voter Initiative preserves, protects and respects the
inherent and guaranteed rights and privileges of all parties.
Remember,
NO VOTE
NO GRUMBLE