(BIVN) – Cultural practitioners, astronomy supporters, and recreational users were in agreement on Wednesday night. During a hearing in Waikoloa, everyone who spoke (8) testified in opposition to the new administrative rules proposed for Mauna Kea.

Closing the mountain to the public at night, requiring permits for groups of 11 or more people, and the prohibition of flashlights and cell phones were some of the proposals that received a universal thumbs down.

Public hearings are being held this week on the proposed draft of the University of Hawaiʻi’s administrative rules that will govern public and commercial activities on its managed lands on Mauna Kea.

The first hearing took place on Monday, September 24, on Oʻahu at the University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center. A second hearing was held on September 25 in Hilo, and the third took place on Wednesday evening at the Waikoloa Elementary and Middle School.