12/29/06 Weekly Report: Free Taxi Coupons Offered at Hilo Bars so Customers Don’t Drink and Drive; Police Department Coordinator Reaches Out to Victims of Abuse

The Hawaii County Prosecutor’s office has purchased 50 booklets of the coupons, which the Department of Liquor Control will pass out to bars and nightclubs.

But don’t count on a free coupon – available while supplies last

Despite the giveaway program, individuals who plan to drink at a bar over the holiday weekend should not count on getting a free coupon. They should make other arrangements in case the bar they plan to visit runs out of coupons.

Taxi coupons available for sale all year round

“Shared ride” taxi coupons are available for purchase all year long at the Mass Transit Agency, 630 E. Lanikaula Street, Hilo or at the Downtown Improvement Association, 329 Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo.

The coupons are subsidized by the County, allowing the taxi companies to receive full payment for providing cab rides while giving the customer a reduced rate. The most economical package is a booklet of 15 coupons for $30. One coupon is good for four miles of travel and two coupons are good for nine miles of travel, provided the travel is within urban Hilo. Any distance beyond that covered by the coupons must be paid for in cash.

Five taxi companies participate in the Shared Ride taxi coupon program

Five taxi companies participate in the program. They are Ace One Taxi, Ali’i Taxi, Bay City Taxi, Marhysa Taxi and Percy’s Taxi.

For more information on purchasing discount taxi coupons, call the Mass Transit Agency at 961-8744.

The coupon distribution evolved from strategies developed by the Impaired Driving Task Force, a coalition of government agencies, community organizations and victim support groups dedicated to helping reduce injuries and fatalities on Big Island highways. For more information about the Impaired Driving Task Force, call Coordinator Jackie Murai at 961-8879.

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Police Department Coordinator Reaches Out to Victims of Abuse

The following article was contributed by Chris Loos, Public Relations Specialist with the Hawai`i County Police Department.

At the Hawaii Police Department, a woman in the Juvenile Aid Section provides support to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. She is Lillian Tavares, the department’s domestic violence/sex assault victim services coordinator. Her job, which is 75 percent funded by a federal grant, also requires her to track domestic violence and sex assault statistics.

When a suspect is charged with abuse, sexual assault or violation of a court order, a victim counselor from the prosecutor’s office usually provides support to the victim. But when the suspect has yet to be charged, Tavares is the person who reaches out to that victim, most often a woman.

She calls the victim, tells her she is there for her and gives her the status of her case. Because national data have identified women between 18 and 24 as having a high rate of intimate partner violence, Tavares tells women between those ages that they’re in a high-risk group.

“What I’m trying to do is make sure the victim is safe,” Tavares says. “They’re really happy to get the phone call.”

How does the domestic violence/sex assault victim services coordinator compile statistics?

Tavares counts the number of police reports for abuse, sexual assault and violating a court order and makes monthly reports to police. The information is forwarded to the state Attorney General’s office and the U.S. Department of Justice.

Although it is not a requirement of the grant, she also closely tracks cases involving assaults of intimate partners because those cases are more serious and often reflect escalating violence against a victim. Tavares also enters the stats into a data base and tracks them to help improve services. She provides training to police about domestic violence at least once a month.

What is an example of the training Tavares gives to police officers?

She alerts them that the choking of an intimate partner is a “red flag.” It is a precursor to the use of a weapon. Other signs of high risk are age and immigration status.

How many domestic violence cases are there on the Big Island?

From January through August of this year, there were 43 domestic violence cases and two assault cases in which the suspect choked an intimate partner.

Thirty-nine of the suspects were arrested and charged. Four cases were referred to prosecutors for a decision about whether to file charges, one case was suspended and one was still pending.

What have the statistics shown since Tavares began tracking them in May 2005?

The numbers this year are higher than last year. In the districts that had the higher arrest rates, the numbers are going down. However, in districts where the abuse cases are going down, Tavares is finding assaults and choking by intimate partners.

What is the difference between abuse of a family member and assault of an intimate partner?

Abuse is a misdemeanor. Abusive conduct that results in substantial or serious bodily injury, however, is classified as an assault; the law provides more severe penalties for inflicting those levels of injury. (A new law makes choking a partner during abuse a Class C felony.)

What does the Police Department’s victim services assistant do for victims?

She refers them to agencies that provide crisis intervention, such as shelters, and she tells them how to get a temporary restraining order. (If a court in another state has already issued a TRO against the victim’s abuser, that TRO is enforceable in Hawaii.)

She acts as the liaison between the victim, police and prosecutors. She answers questions about the status of the victim’s case and general questions about police procedures.

Perhaps most important, she sends them a brochure explaining domestic violence and telling them how to develop a safety plan.

What is a safety plan?

It is a set of steps one can take to escape from more violence. The brochure provides tips, including how to get the victim and the victim’s children out of the home safely during an argument, how to become more independent, how to be safe at home and work...

What if a victim wants help but Tavares hasn’t made contact yet because no one has been arrested?

Tavares has created a brochure about her services. She knew that most educational material about domestic violence was available only at agencies where victims go after seeking help. She wanted to make her brochures more visible to the general public, so she put them in the area at the Police Department where citizens go to renew a driver’s license. The popular brochures include Tavares’ phone number and explain about the victim services assistant.

What is that phone number?

961-2277

Who else may the victim call if it’s not an emergency?

Domestic Violence Legal Assistance Hotline, 1-800-839-5200 (www.womenslaw.org )
East Hawaii Shelter at 959-8864
West Hawaii Shelter at 322-7233

Where may a victim seek help during an emergency?

Call 911.

Is there any special assistance for immigrant victims?

Yes. Na Loio Immigration Rights and Public Interest Legal Center has a toll free number: 1-877-208-8828.

What can families of abuse victims do?

Tavares considers families “the first safety net” for victims. If they hear fighting, they should call the police for early intervention.

“When someone dies from abuse, family members always call in to tell us what they know,” Tavares said. “Then it’s too late.”

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COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

Hawai`i County Police Department’s Cadet Program to Make Debut in 2007

The Hawai`i Police Department will start its police cadet program in July 2007.

The Department of Human Resources will be recruiting for the police cadet program in January 2007 so that names can be referred to the Hawai`i Police Department for employment consideration. Time is needed for testing of qualified applicants by the Department of Human Resources and the various phases of background screening by the Hawai`i Police Department.

The police cadet program will serve to employ and train persons interested in a police career on a part-time basis until they are eligible for the Police Officer I (police recruit) level.

Persons hired will be in civil service positions with the Hawai`i Police Department and will be trained in various functions of law enforcement.

Interested persons must have a high school diploma or its equivalent and possess a valid driver’s license, be of good moral character, be physically fit, and be committed to a police career.

Call the County of Hawai`i’s job hotline at 961-8618 to be placed on the mailing list for the police cadet program. Leave your name, mailing address and telephone number and indicate your interest in our new police cadet program.

The County of Hawai`i is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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Tis Christmas TreeCycling Time Again

This holiday season the County of Hawai`i’s Solid Waste Division and Highway Maintenance Division will again be holding the annual island-wide Christmas Treecycling community project.

The day after Christmas until mid-January, the County of Hawai`i will be collecting and chipping Christmas trees at the following 10 transfer stations:

Hilo
Honoka`a
Ka`auhuhu (Hawi)
Kea`au
Kealakehe
Keauhou
Pahoa
Puako
Waimea
Wai`ohinu

Chipping of the Christmas trees will be done at each site. Before dropping off your Christmas tree, please make sure to remove all decorations, nails and stands. No plastic bags, flocked trees or other rubbish will be accepted for TreeCycling, as they will damage the chippers.

Christmas tree chips make lovely mulch

Free tree chips will be available on site on a first come, first serve basis after mid-January. The timing will depend on available equipment.

Diversion of Christmas trees from the landfills is our aim

By chipping Christmas trees and making the material available for use in gardens, the County can divert thousands of trees from landfills, plus add valuable mulch to our island soils. Residents and businesses alike are encouraged to participate in this practical and beneficial recycling opportunity.

For more recycling information, please call the County of Hawai`i Recycling Hotline at 961-5044.

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County Asks Council to Extend the Emergency Ordinance Deadline

The County Administration will request an extension for the emergency ordinance that allows homeowners and businesses to take advantage of relief programs and proceed with earthquake repairs prior to receiving permits.

The County Council will hear this request at its December 20, 2006 and January 4, 2007 Council meetings.

Should the Council pass this request, it would give an additional 270 days. This means the new expiration date for the ordinance would be sometime in September 2007.

“Homeowners call the office because they may not meet the December 26 deadline. Many have not filed the Waiver of Certain Requirements Form,” said Bruce McClure, Director of the County Department of Public Works. “As of December 11, we still have 33 red tags from the 67 issued and 92 from 227 yellow tags outstanding.”

The emergency ordinance signed by Mayor Harry Kim Tuesday, October 26, grants relief to home owners and businesses by waiving permit fees and allowing them to submit construction drawings after a permit is issued.

On Sunday, October 15, 2006, the Island of Hawaii was rocked by two earthquakes. Although there was no loss of life and no major injuries as a result of the earthquakes, they did cause an estimated $17 million in damages to County facilities on the island.

Since October 15, Public Works has conducted more than 1,679 property inspections.

The County found that damages are most extensive and the highest number of “Red Tags” issued in North Kohala.

Originally intended to expire on December 26, 2006, would allow applicants an additional 270 days to apply for a sign, building, plumbing, or electrical permit. The emergency ordinance also waives certain requirements for repairs that apply to structures, buildings, signs, driveway approaches, electrical, plumbing and sidewalks. Under the ordinance, structures must be restored to their original condition prior to the earthquakes of October 15, 2006. Renovations are not permitted.

To qualify for the waiver, an applicant must complete the Waiver of Certain Requirements Form. The form is available at Public Works, by fax or online. It must be completed and submitted with a permit to the Hilo or Kona offices of Public Works.

For a waiver form and a list of structural engineers and architects, go to the Hawaii County website at www.co.hawaii.hi.us and click on earthquake emergency information. Or call Public Works at 961-8321 weekdays between the hours of 7:45 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

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Fire Department Announces Fireworks Permits to be Issued from Dec 26

Fire Chief Darryl Oliveira announced that fireworks permits will be issued beginning Tuesday, December 26, 2006 at various locations islandwide for the upcoming New Year’s celebration.

The sites are:

· Hawaii Fire Department’s Administration Office, 2100 Kanoelehua Avenue, Suite C-5, Hilo

· Kona Fire Prevention Bureau office at the Kona Service Center, Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Suite 109, Kailua-Kona

· Parker Ranch Center Food Court, Kamuela

Fireworks permits for the above locations will be available between December 26th and December 31st from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Fireworks permits will also be sold at the following stores:

· Bro’s Fireworks, 1297 Kinoole Street, Hilo

· Island Market, Naalehu

· J. Hara Store, Kurtistown

· Kadota Liquors, Hilo

· M. Nakahara Store, Hawi

· Pacific Fireworks, 75-5629 R Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona

· Pacific Fireworks, Parker Ranch Shopping Center, Kamuela

· Pinky’s 5 Eight, Papaikou

· Puna Fresh Foods, Keaau

· Wiki Wiki Mart, Kawailani Street, Hilo

· Wiki Wiki Mart, Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo

· Wiki Wiki Mart, Orchidland, Keaau

· Pacific Fireworks, Hilo

Each permit, which costs $25.00, will entitle the applicant to purchase 5,000 units of fireworks. Permits will be issued to a person 18 years of age or older and are non-transferable. They are valid only when the fireworks are used at the site, time, and date so indicated on the permit. Firing of fireworks is permitted only between the hours of 9:00 p.m. on New Years Eve to 1:00 a.m. on New Years Day. Permits are required to be prominently displayed in public view at the site on the day at the time of the firing.

A permit may be denied if the proposed use of fireworks presents a substantial inconvenience to the public or presents an unreasonable fire or safety hazard. If the permittee fails to remain in compliance with the requirements, the fire department may immediately revoke the permit.

Chief Oliveira reminds the public that it is unlawful for any person to:

1. Remove or extract the pyrotechnic contents from any fireworks;

2. Throw any ignited fireworks from a moving vehicle;

3. Set off, ignite, discharge or otherwise cause to explode any fireworks:

• At any time not within the periods for use prescribed;

• Within 1,000 feet of any operating hospital, convalescent home, home for the elderly or animal hospital;

• In any school building or on any school grounds and yards on any occasion; and

• On any highway, alley, street, sidewalk or other public way; in any park; or within 1,000 feet of any building used for public worship during the periods when services are held.

4. It shall be unlawful for any person to offer for sale, sell, or give any fireworks to minors, and for any minor to possess, purchase, or set off, ignite, or otherwise cause to explode any fireworks, except that the parents or guardians may allow the minor to use fireworks while under the immediate supervision and control of an adult.

Fireworks sales will not begin until December 26, 2006.

For more information on purchasing fireworks permits or the use of fireworks, please call the Fire Prevention Bureau at 981-8370 (Hilo) or 327-3546 (Kona).

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Deadlines for Filing Claims for Personal Real Property Exemptions

The following notice has been provided by the Finance Department’s Real Property Tax Division.

Homeowner’s Exemption

If you own or lease a home or condominium in this County and use it as your principal residence, you may qualify for a home exemption, which could reduce your property tax bill.

The filing deadlines for homeowner’s exemption are as follows:

Deadlines to File	Effective Dates
June 30, 2006	January 1, 2007
January 2, 2007	July 1, 2007

Homes of Totally Disabled Veterans

If you are totally disabled due to injuries received while on duty with the Armed Forces of the United States, your principal residence may be exempted from all property taxes, except for the minimum tax.

Properties of Persons Affected by Hansen’s Disease

If you have been declared by authority of law to be a person affected with Hansen’s Disease, you may be exempted, except for the minimum tax, from property taxes on all real property owned up to, but not exceeding a total taxable value of $50,000.

Properties of Persons Who Are Blind, Deaf and/or Totally Disabled

If you are blind, deaf, and/or totally disabled, you may be exempted, except for the minimum tax, from property taxes on all real property owned up to, but not exceeding a total taxable value of $50,000.

The filing deadlines for exemptions specifically available to totally disabled veterans, persons affected by Hansen’s Disease, and persons who are blind, deaf, and/or totally disabled are as follows:

Deadlines to File	Effective Dates

June 30, 2006	July 1, 2006
January 2, 2007	January 1, 2007

General Instructions

Owners or lessees who are claiming an exemption must have the document transferring ownership or interest in the property recorded at the Bureau of Conveyances on or before the respective exemption filing deadline.

Exemption forms are available at the Hilo Real Property Tax Office, 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 4, Hilo, HI 96720 or the West Hawaii Real Property Tax Office, 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Suite 112, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.

Should you have further questions, please call the Real Property Tax Office in Hilo at (808) 961-8201 or in Kona at (808) 327-3540. Forms are also available on the division’s website, www.hawaiipropertytax.com .

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Additional Damage from Quake Aftershocks? Contact FEMA

Residents of The Big Island who have registered for earthquake assistance and have sustained additional damage from aftershocks are encouraged to contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). They may be eligible for additional funds to repair the damage, federal and state officials said.

Homeowners, renters and business owners can call the helpline toll free 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), and press option 2, or 1 800 462 7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired, until 7 p.m. (local time) Monday through Saturday. Be sure to have your registration number available.

Those who have not yet registered for assistance are encouraged to do so right away by calling 1-800-621-3362, and press 1. The deadline for registering for aid under President Bush’s disaster declaration is Friday, December 22, 2006.

Also, if you have already registered and have questions about your application, call the helpline at 1-800-621-3362, with your registration number.

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Mayor’s Office, Other Departments Move, Some Contact Phone Numbers Change

The Mayor’s Office and employees from various other County departments have moved their offices the week of December 4, 2006. They vacated their offices at the old County Building at 25 Aupuni Street in Hilo, and moved to temporary quarters while the building is being renovated. The renovation work is expected to take at least two years to complete.

The move affects more than 90 employees in six departments including:

· Data Systems

· Environmental Management

· Fire Administration

· Research and Development

· Finance

· Mayor’s Office

The following departments moved to 2100 Kanoelehua Avenue, Bay C-5, in Puainako Town Center, (next to Checkers) on Monday December 4 and Tuesday, December 5, 2006: Please note: Some of the phone numbers have changed and are as follows:

· Data Systems – 981-8399

· Environmental Management – 961-8083 (admin phone number unchanged)

· Fire Administration – 981-8394

· Research & Development – 981-8395

The following departments moved on Friday, December 8, 2006 to 891 Ululani Street (Maluhia Place building): Phone numbers, fax and e-mails will remain the same.

· Mayor’s Office – 961-8211

· Finance -- 961-8231

· Data Systems staffers – 961-8208

The County estimates that repairs and renovation of the Aupuni Street location to take two or more years to complete. The bid process to renovate Aupuni Street begins March 2007.

For more information about the move, please contact the Department of Public Works at 961-8321.

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Kona Driver’s License Office Changes Hours due to Staff Shortages

Because of staffing shortages, the Police Department’s driver license office at the Kona Center will change its hours of operation beginning Monday, December 18, 2006.

Effective on that date, members of the public wishing to renew a driver license or obtain a duplicate license may do so on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays between 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and again from noon to 3:30 p.m.

Citizens who need to take a written examination, obtain an instruction permit or obtain an out-of-the state transfer may do so on Mondays, Wednesdays and Friday from 8 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and from noon to 3 p.m.

Oral examinations for all classes of driver licenses will be available by appointment only. Road tests for Class 1, 2, and 3 licenses will be available by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Road tests for commercial driver licenses will be available by appointment only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

The number to call to schedule an appointment is 327-3580.

The Police Department apologizes for any inconvenience and thanks the public for its understanding while the department tries to fill vacancies in the driver license office.

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Professionals Available to Help Those with Earthquake Damage

The Hawai`i County Department of Public Works offers a list of 30 Hawai`i-based architects and structural engineers available to help homeowners and businesses seeking to restore property damaged during the October 15th earthquake. These professionals from the AIA Hawai`i Island Section and the Structural Engineers Association of Hawai`i can be hired for a fee for restoration design to homes and businesses to their original condition.

The list is available on the Hawai`i County website at www.co.hawaii.hi.us . Click on earthquake emergency information, or by calling Public Works at (808) 961-8321 weekdays between the hours of 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Homeowners and businesses with buildings that have a red (unsafe) declaration require the use of these professionals. Those with a yellow (restricted use) may or may not require the use of these professionals. Buildings with minor repairs do not. For clarification call Brian Kajikawa Building Division Chief at (808) 961-8331.

As of October 26, the County has red-tagged 61 buildings and yellow-tagged 161 buildings; only a Public Works inspector can remove a tag.

Those directly affected by the October 15th earthquake can start emergency repair work now. Under an emergency ordinance, homeowners and businesses have 60 days to apply for permits to restore structures to their original condition. Other incentives include real property tax relief, no building permit fees and waiver of tipping fees for removal and hauling of debris. To apply, visit www.hawaiipropertytax.com for a real property tax reassessment.

County Calls for All Licensed Contractors to Register

As a service to the community, the County is also compiling a list of licensed Hawai`i General, Plumbing and Electrical Contractors. These contractors are asked to submit their names and contact information to Jiro Sumada, Deputy Director of the Department of Public Works at (808) 961-8321 at their earliest convenience.

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Real Property Tax Division Taking Applications for Post-Quake Tax Relief

The Hawai`i County Real Property Division encourages property owners with earthquake damages to apply for real property tax relief.

To start the process, please download the application form at www.hawaiipropertytax.com . Real Property Tax assessors will visit the affected properties whose owners apply for such tax relief. Besides damage to buildings, land lost in the earthquake, such as landslides into the ocean, will also be eligible for reassessment.

Substantiating documents of damage such as photographs, contractor’s quotations or appraisals may be submitted at the time of application. The deadline to file applications is June 30, 2007.

Steps to complete the application:

Fill in the Tax Map Key Number of the parcel. This can be obtained from your last tax bill or assessment notice.
Fill in the name and address of the Claimant along with their telephone numbers. Telephone numbers are very important so that the tax office or appraiser can contact you if information is missing, or if an inspection is necessary.
Fill in the type of disaster (Earthquake) and date the quake occurred, October 15, 2006.
Describe exactly what was damaged. Then in the section listing the major building components, fill in the approximate percentage of each category that was damaged. If a particular component was not damaged, leave it blank. (For example, if half of the windows in the house were broken you would put 50% in that box.)
Sign, date and mail in the application by June 30, 2007.

Note: This application is only for real property taxes paid, or due. In all cases, the amount of relief will not reduce the total annual taxes to less than the minimum tax for the parcel. If you are currently paying the minimum tax, please do not complete this form, as no relief will be calculated. The tax relief calculation will be based on the balance of the tax year, October 15, 2006 to June 30, 2007.

Please be advised that the Real Property Tax Office does not assess, or tax, improvements such as retaining walls, fences, landscaping, and driveways. Therefore, damage of this type would not result in any tax relief.

For further information, please call Real Property Tax Division at 961-8201.

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Earthquake Repairs -- How to Apply for Building Permit Waiver

Here is some information who qualifies under the emergency ordinance for waiver of certain requirements and fees for emergency repair work.

A homeowner, partnership or corporation can participate under this ordinance if the structures or buildings were directly affected on October 15, 2006 by the earthquakes.
Emergency repairs and waivers apply to electrical, plumbing, signs, driveway approaches, sidewalks, businesses and homes.
Structures must be restored to their original condition prior to the earthquakes of October 15, 2006.
Electrical and plumbing work must be performed by a licensed electrician and a plumber.
Renovations are not permitted under this ordinance.
Please be aware that a building permit is required and applicants should apply sixty (60) days from the approval of the ordinance.

To qualify for the waiver of certain requirements, the applicant must complete the “Waiver of Certain Requirements Form.” It is available either at Public Works, by fax or online. The form must be completed and brought in at the time they apply for a permit to the Hilo or Kona Public Works offices within sixty (60) days from the approval of the ordinance.

Proof of Earthquake Damage

To qualify for the emergency repair work and take advantage of the waiver, the applicant must show proof that damages were caused by the earthquakes. This can be done by filing an incident report with Civil Defense by calling 935-0031 or online at www.co.hawaii.hi.us . Click on EarthQuake Emergency Information.

Homes that received a green tag following the earthquake may make repairs without a permit. No inspections are required.

How do you get a “yellow tag” (restricted use) declaration removed?

This is a yellow tag that only an inspector with the Building Division of Public Works can remove.

Visit either the Hilo or Kona Building Division of Public Works or call Civil Defense at 961-8604 and give them your name and the district you reside in.

Electrical and plumbing work must be performed by a licensed electrician or plumber.

Structures must be restored to their original condition prior to the earthquakes of October 15, 2006. An inspection by the Building Division of Public Works may be required depending on the extent of damage.

The Building Division of Public Works in Kona or Hilo can answer your questions.

The Kailua-Kona office of the County Department of Public Works is located in Hanama Place at 75-5706 Kuakini Highway; phone 327-3520 for Building Division or 327-3530 for Engineering Division. In Hilo, the office is located at Aupuni Center, 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 7; phone 961-8331 for Building Division and 961-8327 for Engineering Division.

Both offices are open from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, closed on State holidays.

Helpful tip to make sure you’re hiring a licensed contractor

To verify if a contractor is licensed, and has workers compensation insurance, go to the website for the State of Hawai`i, Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs at http://plv.ehawaii.gov/pvlsearch/app .

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Post Quake eWaste Recycling Continues through Saturday, December 30th

The County of Hawaii has been working with FEMA to handle the increase in eWaste materials that were damaged as a result of the October 15, 2006 earthquake.

The program of accepting the materials for recycling at our transfer stations and landfills will continue through Saturday, December 30, 2006.

WHERE: All transfer stations and landfills throughout the island.

WHEN: Now through Saturday, December 30, 2006

Please take all your earthquake damaged eWaste (electronic equipment like televisions, printers, computers and monitors) to the closest transfer station (residential only) or landfill (hotels and commercial) and place them in the designated areas.

Please do not put the eWaste down the trash chutes or in the landfill.

The County will collect and process the eWaste for shipping to the mainland for recycling and proper disposal.

Businesses may apply for a waiver on landfill tipping fees by submitting a completed “Request for Waiver of Tipping Fees for Natural Disaster” to the Department of Environmental Management obtained online http://co.hawaii.hi.us/directory/dir_envmng.htm#dir_solidwaste.

West Hawai‘i Residents may recycle their non-earthquake damaged e-Waste after December 30, 2006 at the next Kona CompuCycle/eWaste event on Saturday, February 3, 2007.

For more information, please call Mike Dworsky, Solid Waste Chief at 961-8515 or Linda Peters, County Recycling Coordinator at 961-8942. Mahalo for your cooperation.

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Holiday Closures of County Transfer Stations, Landfills

The Department of Environmental Management wishes to inform the community that all County of Hawaii Solid Waste Transfer Stations and Landfills will be closed for the New Year holiday:

• New Years Day – Monday, January 1, 2007

Personnel will be available to answer questions at each transfer station. All locations will reopen the day after the holiday.

We respectfully ask your kokua. The Solid Waste Division Employees appreciate the opportunity to spend the holidays with their families and thank everyone for their cooperation.

For more information, please call Michael Dworsky, Solid Waste Division Chief at 961-8515.

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Hawai`i County Govt Needs You – to Serve on County Boards and Commissions

As the calendar year 2006 nears an end, there will be numerous openings on many County boards and commissions.

Boards and commissions are volunteer groups created by our laws that formulate policy and oversee many important areas of County government. Our commissions hire and fire the Police Chief and Fire Chief, set water rates for our citizens, set salaries for our County officials, oversee decisions made concerning our solid waste and our landfills, make recommendations concerning land use on our island, and oversee government ethics, to name just a few responsibilities.

Service on a board or commission is a very rewarding experience. It is an excellent opportunity to meet and work with fellow citizens from different walks of life, with the common purpose of making our community a better place for everyone.

Two very boards that will have vacancies are the Planning Commission and Board of Appeals.

The Planning Commission oversees land use matters in the County of Hawai`i, and is responsible for making recommendations to the Mayor and Council concerning the future use of land in Hawai`i that will affect many generations to come.

The Board of Appeals is responsible for hearing disputes concerning final decisions made by the Planning Director and Public Works Director concerning land use matters, and matters relating to the building code.

If you are interested in applying, stop by the Mayor’s Office in Hilo or Kona to pick up an application form. You may also contact Corporation Counsel Lincoln Ashida directly at 961-8304, extension 118 (or email at Lashida@co.hawaii.hi.us ) if you have any questions.

Hawai`i County is a wonderful place to live because of the involvement of our citizens in their government. Please consider applying to serve on a County board or commission.

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Amnesty Bill for Illegal Residential, Ag Structures - Requirements

The County Council has recently passed an Amnesty Bill which will allow the homeowner to apply for permits for illegal structures (residential dwellings R-3 occupancies and agricultural buildings M-1 occupancies) that were constructed and finished before January 1, 2006.

Should you choose to take advantage of the Amnesty Bill, please be aware of the following minimum requirements:

BUILDING

Submit complete architectural drawings which will include but not limited to a site plan, existing floor plan, demolition floor plan, revised floor plan, foundation plan, floor framing plan, section, exterior elevations, details, etc.
All drawings submitted for building permit must be stamped with a seal of a registered architect/structural engineer licensed in the State of Hawaii along with statements “This work was prepared by me our under my supervision” and “Construction of this project will be under my observation.” The architect/structural engineer must also submit a letter certifying that he/she had conducted all inspections during construction and that the construction was done in accordance to the code that the construction was done.

Additions, Alterations and Repairs:

Alterations or repairs, not exceeding 25% of the value of an existing building or structure, which are nonstructural and do not affect any member or part of the building or structure having required fire resistance, may be made with the same material of which the building or structure is constructed.
Additions, alterations and repairs not exceeding 50% of replacement value of an existing building or structure, the new construction shall conform to the requirements of present code enforced.
Additions, alterations and repairs exceeding 50% of replacement value of an existing building or structure, the entire structure shall be made to conform to requirements of present code enforced.
Architect/Structural Engineer is responsible for inspections up to final inspection. The County Building Inspector is responsible to do the final inspection.

Electrical & Plumbing

· A licensed Electrical and Plumbing contractor licensed in the State of Hawaii must perform all work.

· Both permits must be applied for along with the Building Permit application.

· All Electrical and Plumbing Work must conform to the code that is presently being enforced by the County of Hawaii.

· County Electrical and Plumbing Inspectors shall perform all inspections.

Altogether, Three Permits – Building, electrical and plumbing

Two sets of complete drawings stamped by architect/structural engineer along with letter and electrical and plumbing permit applications shall be submitted for permit processing.
All plans must be routed to the other agencies for their approval prior plan review by Building Division.
Building Division shall do plan reviews of all three applications: building, electrical and plumbing.
All three permits will be issued after review is approved and completed.

For further information, please contact Brian Kajikawa, Building Division of the Department of Public Works at 961-8331. The division’s Kona office number is 327-3520.

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Housing Dept Seeks Project Proposals for 2007 CDBG/HOME Programs

The County of Hawai`i’s Office of Housing and Community Development (OHCD) is seeking eligible project proposals to include in its 2007 Annual Action Plan to HUD.

The County’s five-year 2005-2009 CP describes the County’s housing and community development needs, funding plans, priorities and objectives, and includes the County’s Annual Action plan for the use of CDBG and HOME Program funds.

The County expects to receive approximately $2,500,000 for its CDBG Program and $1,000,000 for the HOME Program.

Project proposals submitted to the OHCD must comply with the program criteria, meet eligibility requirements, program objectives, and be consistent with the County’s priorities and objectives as contained in the County’s 2005-2009 CP.

All original project proposals and two (2) copies must be received by 4:30 p.m. on January 11, 2007, by the OHCD, 50 Wailuku Drive, Hilo, Hawai`i 96720-2456.

The proposal forms and federal guidelines covering the eligible activities will be available at the following locations beginning October 19, 2006, Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except on holidays. Proposal forms will also be mailed, upon request, after October 19, 2006.

OFFICE OF HOUSING AND HAWAI`I COUNTY SERVICES

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Hanama Place

Hilo Armory 75-5706 Kuakini Highway

50 Wailuku Drive Suite 103

Hilo, Hawai`i 96720 Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740

Phone: 961-8379 Phone: 329-5226

In addition, copies of the County’s current CP; Citizen Participation Plan and past performance of CDBG and HOME funds are also available at the Office of Housing and Community Development, 50 Wailuku Drive, Hilo, Hawai`i.

A brief description of the CDBG and HOME Programs area as follows:

Community Development Block Grant Program

Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (Public Law 93-383) created the CDBG Program, which became effective January 1, 1974. Under the CDBG Program, a community is able to develop a flexible, locally designed comprehensive community development strategy in order to address the program’s primary objective: “…development of viable urban communities, by providing decent housing and suitable living environments and expanding economic opportunities principally for persons of low and moderate income.”

Under the CDBG program, grants or loan assistance may be used by eligible public agencies, private non-profit organizations, and Community Based Development Organizations (CBDO), (non-profit organization) for the following activities provided that these activities either 1) principally benefit low and moderate income families, 2) aid in the prevention or elimination of slums and blight, or 3) meet other community development needs having a particular urgency.

Range of Eligible Activities for the use of CDBG Program Funds:

Acquisition, disposition of real property, relocation payments, clearance
Public facilities
Public service
Payment of non-federal share
Homeownership (i.e. subsidized interest, mortgage guarantee, down payments, closing costs)
Rehabilitation and preservation
Economic development, micro enterprises
Planning and administration

HOME Program

The HOME Program was created under Title II (the HOME Investment Partnerships Act) of the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990. The purpose of the HOME Program is to expand the supply of decent, safe, sanitary and affordable housing for very low and low-income persons.

Under the HOME Program, equity investments, interest-bearing and non-interest bearing loans or advances, deferred payment loans, grants, may be used by eligible public agencies, private non-profit organizations or other private organizations are eligible to utilize HOME funds for the following activities.

Range of Eligible Activities for the use of HOME Program Funds:

Development hard costs defined as the actual cost of constructing or rehabilitating housing
Acquisition costs
Related soft costs defined as other reasonable and necessary costs incurred and associated with the financing or development (or both) of new construction, rehabilitation or acquisition of housing assisted with HOME funds
Relocation costs
Cost related to tenant-based rental assistance

Applicants applying for HOME funding are required to match for every $1.00 of federal HOME funds expended for the project with at least $0.25 of eligible matching funds.

For more information, please contact the Office of Housing and Community Development at 961-8379.

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Hawai`i’s Booster Seat Law Goes in Effect January 1, 2007

The following is an introduction to the new Child Passenger Restraint Law which goes into effect in Hawai`i on January 1, 2006, with information courtesy of the Keiki Injury Prevention Coalition.

Buckle up your child in a booster seat

Using a booster seat can save your child’s life. Every year, more than 700 children between the ages of four through seven are involved in major car accidents in Hawai`i.

Statistics show that children unrestrained by booster seats are at least 50 percent more at risk for injury than children in a child safety seat or booster seat.

Never hold your infant or child in your lap while riding in a motor vehicle

A crash or sudden stop can result in a serious injury or even a fatality.

The new booster seat law

The new law will require children between the ages of four through seven to ride in a child safety seat or booster seat whenever traveling in a motor vehicle.

The only exemptions are if the child is over 4’9” or if the vehicle has lap-only seat belts in the rear seat.

The driver is responsible for compliance with the booster seat law

Violators of Hawai`i’s Child Passenger Restraint Law are required to attend a four-hour class and may be fined between $100-500 depending upon the number of offenses.

However, the most compelling reason for using a booster seat is the safety of your child.

Why not just use a regular seat belt for a child?

Seat belts are designed for older children and adults – not for children under the age of eight, whose size and physical development make seat belts less effective, and in some cases, unsafe.

A child under 80 lbs. is generally too small for a regular seat belt. The lap belt rides up over the stomach and the shoulder belt cuts across the neck. In a crash this can cause critical or even fatal injuries.

When children outgrow child restraints with a harness – between 40 and 65 lbs. depending on seat weight limit – they should be restrained in a booster seat until they are big enough to fit in an adult seat belt (approximately 80 lbs. and 4’9” tall).

A child who cannot sit with his or her back against the vehicle seat back cushion with knees bent over the vehicle’s seat edge without slouching, must use a booster seat – no matter what age, weight or height.

What are the basic guidelines on the proper use of booster seats?

Use a booster seat for children between the ages of four through seven, unless at least 4’9” tall.
Used the booster seat until the vehicle lap and shoulder belt fit correctly. (The lap belt should fit low and snug on their hips, and the shoulder belt should not cross over a child’s face or neck.)
Never put the shoulder belt behind a child’s back or under their arm.
A high back or low back booster with no shield may be used.

State tax credit towards the purchase of your child’s booster seat

A Hawai`i State tax credit of $25 per year applies to the purchase of a child safety seat or booster seat.

Using a booster seat can save your child’s life.

For further information, please contact the Keiki Injury Prevention Coalition at 1-(808) 537-9200 or visit their website at www.KIPChawaii.org .

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Recycling Drop-offs

Due to a temporary transition in our recycler’s processing facility, the following Transfer Stations will be affected:

· Hawi

· Honokaa

· Keauhou

· Laupahoehoe

· Pahala

· Pahoa

· Puako

· Waimea

We WILL NOT be accepting the following recyclable materials in the mixed recycling bins ONLY.

NO Paperboard or boxboard (cereal or tea boxes, snack food boxes, etc.)

NO Plastics #1&2 (milk jugs, detergent and bleach bottles, etc.)