State and city officials warn Sunset Beach residents about increased erosion risks

SUNSET BEACH (HawaiiNewsNow) – State and city officials are warning homeowners and community members about increased risks along Sunset Beach, where erosion caused part of a home to collapse last week.

The home on Ke Nui Road was owned by Josh Van Emmerik, who has been embroiled in legal battles over erosion control measures. Including pouring concrete on the beach slope in front of the house.

The house had been facing erosion problems for years, and after the homeowner’s unsuccessful efforts to save it, officials said the property was now foreclosed.

Demolition of the house started on Thursday. A second house is also under threat and is also planned to be demolished.

The city Department of Permitting and Planning and the state Department of Land and Natural Resources said in a statement that they were working together “to raise awareness of these variable conditions and encourage homeowners to take proactive measures.”

DLNR and DPP also said: “The integrity of the structures is at risk as wave energy causes the sand to shift and undercuts these features.”

The beach in front of the house was also closed due to the collapse.

“While the circumstances are unfortunate, it is unacceptable for debris to fall on a public beach or fall into the ocean, endangering the community and marine life, and we will take all necessary precautions to protect the public and our natural and cultural resources,” said DLNR President Dawn Chang. a statement.