The state Department of Land and Natural Resources has sent a notice of alleged violations to a boat tour operator accused of damaging remnants of the historic Punalu‘u wharf.
The state Department of Land and Natural Resources has sent a notice of alleged violations to a boat tour operator accused of damaging remnants of the historic Punalu‘u wharf.
The notice alleges unauthorized alteration of historic properties and unauthorized land use within a conservation district.
Simon Velaj of Hang Loose Boat Tours was confronted last week by Ka‘u residents for using an excavator along the shoreline there. As a result, the property owner rescinded his license to use the site and boat ramp.
Velaj could be fined up to $10,000 to $15,000 for each violation.
DLNR said the matter continues to be investigated along with Hawaii County. Penalties would be assessed by the state Board of Land and Natural Resources.