(BIVN) – Douglas Ing, the attorney representing the TMT International Observatory in the Thirty Meter Telescope contested case hearing, presented final arguments and rebuttal to the Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources in Hilo on Wednesday.

The day-long hearing concluded with no decision on the University of Hawaii’s application for the conservation district use permit that would allow the TMT to be built on Mauna Kea. The BLNR will issue its decision at a later date.

“This is an important day for TMT with the conclusion of the second contested case related to the Conservation District Use Permit needed for TMT to be built on Maunakea,” said Ed Stone in a statement after the hearing. “We deeply appreciate the time and attention given by both the Board of Land & Natural Resources and Judge Riki May Amano in considering whether a state permit should be granted.”

“Everyone had the opportunity to be heard as part of the process, and we are hopeful that the Board will act quickly on its decision and that it will be a positive one for TMT. We thank all of our supporters and friends who have been with us during the hearing process over the past 10 years,” Stone said.