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May 4, 2007
Hawai`i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
FEATURE ARTICLE
· Enhanced Wireless 911 Service Debuts on the Big Island
· Hawai`i Medical Reserve Corps – You Can Help
COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD
· Now You Can Click and Check on County-Issued Permits Online
· Hawai`i Home Ownership Center to Hold Free Orientations
· Give the Gift of Life during Hawai`i Police Dept’s Annual Blood Drive
· Fire Department Seeks Entrants in 2007 EMS Fun Run/Walk Sunday, May 27
· 2007 Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant Available for Review
· Minimum Bottle Count Requirement Raised to 200 Containers
· Vacancies on the County’s Boards and Commissions
· Water Restriction in Honoka`a, Ahualoa, Kalopa, Pohakea, Upper Paauilo, Kukuihaele
· Water Conservation Notice – Puakea Bay to Halawa in North Kohala
· County Holds Positive Coaching Alliance Leadership Training
· Bring your Old Computer to the Next Hilo CompuCycle Event May 11 and 26
· Real Property Tax Division Taking Applications for Post-Quake Tax Relief
· Earthquake Repairs – How to Apply for a Building Permit Waiver
· Amnesty Bill for Illegal Residential, Ag Structures -- Requirements
· Recycling Drop-Offs -- Update
· Redemption Centers – Locations and Hours of Operation
COMMUNITIES IN ACTION
· Honolulu Symphony Announces Big Island Educational Tour, Free Concert
· Kailua Village Business Improvement District Talk Story Sessions
· Community Invited to Meetings for Hawai`i Sustainability Planning Process
· Third Annual Hilo-Huli Rotary Benefit Grills Up the Best on May 6
· Town Meeting on Kona Community Development Plan on May 8
· Enjoy Some Hamakua Hospitality during Western Week May 19-28
· Parenting of Teens or Pre-Teens –Training Sessions May 2-June 13 in Kona
· Ho`ea Ea: Food Sovereignty Conference June 14-17
· National Water Catchment Experts Meet on Hawai`i Island Aug 15-17
· Free Mulch Available at Kona Transfer Station
· Check Out our County’s Community Development Plan Website
TRAFFIC ALERT
· Temporary Traffic Signal on Mamalahoa Highway in North Kona
· Roadwork is Happening Around the Island of Hawai`i
· County Begins Parking Lot Improvements at Aupuni Center
FEATURE ARTICLES
Enhanced Wireless 911 Service Debuts on the Big Island
Hawai`i County is now covered by an Enhanced Wireless 911 system, which became fully operational as of April 26, 2007.
Wireless 911, as it is commonly known, provides Fire and Police dispatchers with a general location of a cell phone user making a 911 call.
Prior to the implementation of the Wireless 911 system, cell phone users were queried by the dispatcher about their location when making an emergency 911 call. Up to now, the exact location of the cell phone caller was not automatically recognized by the dispatcher’s computer.
With Wireless 911, that problem is greatly alleviated. With a validly registered cell phone, the caller’s location can be pinpointed on the dispatcher’s computer.
In order to be accessible to Wireless 911, the cell phone must have the capability of providing GPS information or a vendor-provided network-based system to facilitate locating the calling party.
Note: Cell phone users with Mobi, Nextel, Sprint and Verizon cell phones, which are equipped with a GPS chip, should set their phones to “Location On”. Cell phone users with T-Mobile or Cingular service are network-based and therefore their locations are automatically provided to Dispatch.
The new Wireless 911 system is fully-funded by the State Wireless Enhanced 911 Board, an entity created by state statute in 2004 under the Department of Accounting and General Services.
For further information, go to http://hawaiiwirelesse911.hawaii.gov:9119/ .
Hawai`i Medical Reserve Corps -- You Can Help
The following information was provided by the State Department of Health as part of its effort to recruit volunteers to help in the event of a public health emergency.
It’s time to strengthen our community
Today healthcare is faced with many challenges that, just a short time ago, were unthinkable. Recent natural and man-made catastrophes such as earthquakes, tsunamis, outbreaks of disease and acts of terrorism have placed public health responders on the frontlines. The Hawaii Department of Health leads our state’s medical and public health response to emergencies and works closely with state and community agencies to safeguard the health of our citizens and visitors.
What is the Medical Reserve Corps?
The Medical Reserve Corps is part of the Federal AmeriCorps and Citizen Corps Initiative. The MRC is an all-volunteer group with many different skill sets. We need volunteers who have medical and non-medical backgrounds who want to serve their local communities during public health emergencies or large-scale emergency response events.
We need your help
Join our state’s Medical Reserve Corps (MRC). The mission of the Hawaii MRC is to establish teams of local volunteers who can contribute and assist medical and public health services throughout the year and during times of community need.
Why become a member of the MRC?
Hawaii’s MRC will help to fill gaps in medical and public health response not covered by other agencies.
By becoming a member of the MRC, you’ll be serving your community. Due to the remote geographic location of our state, it is of the utmost importance that we are self-sufficient in a time of crisis or need.
Who can join the MRC?
Anyone who wants to assist during a public health emergency or event can join. Trained medical professionals are of great help, but we also need people with many other skills.
Besides physicians and nurses, volunteers may include counselors, language interpreters, data entry specialists, safety officers, site assistants, special needs assistants, logistics and administrative assistants, among many others.
What is the time commitment?
Members will be asked to attend training every three months for about 2 hours.
Each training session is designed to improve your knowledge of disaster preparedness and response. Training may involve working at alternative care sites, mass vaccinations or special needs shelters.
You will also have the opportunity to network with colleagues and participate in volunteer activities as specified by your local MRC chapter.
Registration
You can apply to be a member at our training/orientation meetings:
- HILO Thursday, May 17th from 5:30-7:30PM Environmental Health Office,1582 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo Phone:974-6480 (food will be served)
- WAIMEA Thursday, May 24th from 5:30-7:30PM Waimea Civic Center Conference Room, 67-5189 Kamamalu Street, Kamuela. (food will be served).
- KONA Wednesday, May 30th from 5:30-7:30PM Kona Community Hospital Conference Room #3 (downstairs of Admin Bldg.), (food will be served)
Please note that that if you are an essential worker or volunteer for another emergency organization such as the Red Cross, your first obligation during an emergency is to your employer or primary emergency organization.
You can also register on the web by visiting: http://www.disasterhelp.net/hah/ .
For more information, you may contact: Susan Parker, Hawaii District Environmental Health Office, and 1582 Kamehameha Ave., Hilo, HI 96720 Phone: 808-974-6480 or e-mail: susan.parker@doh.hawaii.gov .
COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD
Now You Can Click and Check on County-Issued Permits Online
The Building Division of the Department of Public Works announces a new online service, available 24/7 to access Building, Plumbing, and Electrical Permit information for active and completed permits.
Details such as the date the permit was issued, the contractor’s name and the description of the work performed appear in the report. Information is updated weekly.
To generate a permit inquiry, go to www.co.hawaii.hi.us . Click on “Real Property Tax,” then click on “Real Property Tax Site.” Once you’re there, click on “Property Search,” then click on “parcel number.” Type in the TMK number and click “search.” Click on the parcel ID #, then click on the icon “Generate a Permit Report.” Wait a few minutes for the information to download. Details and a summary of permits that pertain to this TMK will appear.
To view this, you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader. A link to a website to download this software is provided.
Questions regarding permits should be directed to the Building Division of Public Works at 961-8331 or 327-3520.
Questions regarding permits and for permits issued prior to 1980 should be directed to the Building Division of Public Works at 961-8331 or 327-3520.
Hawaii HomeOwnership Center to Hold Free Orientations
The Office of Housing and Community Development would like to invite the public to free orientation sessions on home ownership.
The one-hour orientation class is designed to provide information on what it takes to become a homeowner. The Center offers home buyer education classes, counseling, referrals and ongoing support.
The Hawaii HomeOwnership Center’s free orientations are as follows:
· Hilo - Office of Housing & Community Development, 1990 Kino’ole Street, Suite 104
Monday, May 21st, 6 p.m.
· Kamuela – Thelma Parker Memorial Public & School Library, 67-1209 Mamalahoa Hwy.
Tuesday, May 1st, 6 p.m.
· Kailua-Kona – Kona Mayor’s Office, 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Suite 103
Saturday, May 19th, 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.
To register for the orientations, please call the toll free number (877) 523-9503.
Hawaii HomeOwnership Center – Big Island Office is located at 64-1035 Mamalahoa Hwy., Unit O, Kamuela, HI 96743. Telephone: (808) 887-6472 Fax: (808) 887-6479.
Give the Gift of Life during Hawai`i Police Dept’s Annual Blood Drive
The Hawaii Police Department will host its annual Employee/Family Blood Bank on Wednesday, May 23. The event will take place at the Training Room, Public Safety Building, 349 Kapiolani Street, Hilo, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Blood Drive will be open to the public.
WHEN: Wednesday, May 23, 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
WHERE Public Safety Building, Training Room, 349 Kapiolani Street, Hilo
The Blood Drive Committee consists of Elena Kawazoe of South Hilo Patrol; Detective Melvin Yamamoto of CIU/IA; Sandra Tokeshi of Computer Center, and Amy Miyao, Carol Makida, Major Jay Enanoria, Captain Duane Rapoza, Acting Sergeant Michael Riviera, Officer Alan Kimura, Nancy Martinez and Joy Hatayama of the Department’s Administrative Services Division.
The Blood Bank of Hawaii needs 200 pints of blood daily, with hospitals depending on the good health of blood donors and a safe supply of blood.
The Department’s goal is to draw at least 130 pints of blood on May 23. Approximately 170 donors are needed to achieve this goal. The process usually takes at least 1-1/2 hours. If for medical or other reasons you are unable to donate, please ask a relative or friend if they may be interested in donating on your behalf.
What are the basic blood donor qualifications?
The basic qualifications are:
· Be in good health
· Be 18 years of age or older (or 17 with parental consent)
· Weigh at least 110 pounds
· Have a valid photo (ID (must include a birth date)
If you have further questions, please call Joy Hatayama, secretary of the Hawaii Police Department’s Administrative Services Division at 961-2309. Should anyone wish to schedule an appointment for the drive, please call Joy Hatayama at 961-2309 (if a County employee, through your supervisor.)
Prospective donors may also call Nursing Services at the Blood Bank of Hawaii on Oahu toll free at 1-800-372-9966 regarding medications or other personal concerns they may have. Brochures on the following topics on donor eligibility will be provided upon request:
The brochure on donor eligibility answers frequently asked questions such as:
· Who Can Donate?
· What Happens to My Blood Donation?
· Common Donor Concerns.
· Information BEFORE You Donate.
· Donor Health Checklist.
Refresh yourselves after giving blood
Donors who have participated in past Blood Drives with the Hawai`i Police Department can probably attest to the variety of refreshments that have been provided and donated. The goodies include home made dishes, desserts and pupus.
Donations of refreshments accepted
Donations in the way of refreshments or cash donations toward the purchase of refreshments for the Blood Drive are also being taken.
Please call Joy Hatayama at the Administrative Services Division at 961-2309, if you would like to schedule an appointment to donate blood, have any questions, or would like to make a donation.
Please think about giving the gift of life for this worthy cause. It’s a priceless gift!
Fire Department Seeking Entrants in 2007 EMS Fun Run/Walk Sunday, May 27
In celebration of Emergency Medical Services Week, the Hawaii Fire Department is sponsoring their 7th annual EMS 5K Family Run/2 Mile-Walk/Keiki Fun Run on Sunday, May 27, 2007. The event will take place at Liliuokalani Park, and the public is invited to participate.
This year, proceeds from this event will benefit the Easter Seals of Hawaii’s Early Intervention Services program. Easter Seals Hawaii has been providing services to infants, children and adults with disabilities and other special needs, and support to their families since 1946.
The 5K Family Run and 2-Mile Walk will begin and end at Liliuokalani Park in Hilo. The route proceeds from Lihiwai Street to the lighthouse tower at Bayfront Highway, then back along the same route to the park. The 2-mile walk also begins at the park to a shorter turn-around point and back. Both events will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 27th.
A Keiki Fun Run, a ¼ mile non-competitive event for children ages 3 to 10, will be held within Liliuokalani Park following the 5K run.
Where can you get application forms?
Applications may be obtained at the Spencer Health and Fitness Center, the Fire Administration office located at Puainako Center, 2100 Kanoelehua Avenue C-5, at any district fire station, or by calling 981-8349 during normal business hours.
The entrance fee is $20 for adults, and $10 for youth, students & seniors (60+). Deadline to guarantee a shirt is May 21.
Awards will be presented following the completion of the event. All participants will also become eligible to receive random drawing prizes. Spencer Health and Fitness Center is a major corporate sponsor of the event.
Health screening also offered during the EMS events
The family fun run/walk will also kick off various events and displays that will continue throughout the day. The American Heart Association (blood pressure screening), Ululani Pharmacy (blood sugar/cholesterol screening), Big Island Asthma Coalition-East Hawaii (asthma awareness and education), Hospice of Hilo, and the County of Hawaii Prosecuting Attorney’s Office (Keiki ID) will provide their services to the public.
The Easter Seals Hawaii volunteers and staff will also be on hand to assist with the event as well as to provide information about their services. For more information on the organization, please call Wendy Correa at 961-3081.
What is EMS Week?
EMS Week, which is celebrated nationwide, will bring together local communities and medical personnel to publicize safety, and honor the dedication of those who provide the day-to-day lifesaving services of the medical “front line.”
This year’s theme, “EMS: Extraordinary People, Extraordinary Service,” underscores the commitment and dedication of the 750,000 EMS personnel who provide an essential community service every day.
Who’s coordinating this year’s EMS event?
The Emergency Medical Services Week coordinators are Fire Equipment Operator /Mobile Intensive Care Technician Lance Uchida (Central Fire Station, telephone 961-8325) and Fire Captain Jerry Lum (Waiakea Fire Station, telephone 961-8678). The fun run/walk race director is Firefighter/Mobile Intensive Care Technician Jesse Ebersole (Kawailani Fire Station, telephone 959 7012).
The County of Hawaii’s Emergency Medical Services Division, a State-funded program, provides 24-hour quality pre-hospital emergency medical care and services to the residents and visitors on Hawaii. Last year, EMS responded to 15,211 calls for assistance islandwide. To learn more about your local EMS Division, please call 961-8319.
Event organizers welcome your support of EMS. Please join your Fire Department for the EMS 5K Family Run/2 Mile-Walk/Keiki Fun Run on Sunday, May 27th.
2007 Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant Available for Review
The Hawai`i County Housing Agency and the Hawai`i County Council have approved the County of Hawai`i’s 2007 Action Plan with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and has authorized the Mayor to execute and submit the Action Plan to HUD for the CDBG and HOME programs.
The County of Hawai`i will utilize its 2007 CDBG and HOME allocation for the following projects:
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
The County of Hawai`i anticipates that the County’s total 2007 CDBG allocation is $2,438,491.00. The County also received an additional $130,047.50 of program income and anticipates receiving $80.000.00 of additional program income for a total $2,648,538.50 of CDBG funds. To meet the County’s five (5) year Consolidated Plan’s, Priorities and Objectives, the following projects will be included in the 2007 Action Plan, Removal of Architectural Barriers – Various County Facilities $1,413,354, Hamakua Health Center Mobile Dental Van – Acquisition $310,000, Residential Emergency Repair Program $300,000, Pahoa Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event $50,000, Child and Family Service – Hale Ohana Domestic Abuse Shelter – Renovations $274,350 and Administration, Planning and Fair Housing $300,834.50.
The CDBG project amount for the Removal of Architectural Barriers - Various County Facilities may change to accommodate the actual amount of grant funds or program income received or if there are any cancelled project(s) or reprogramming of CDBG funds. In its efforts to expedite and timely implement its projects, the Public is advised that the County of Hawai`i may utilize County funds to incur pre-award cost under the CDBG program that will not exceed 25% of current CDBG allocation. This is in accordance with the CDBG regulations 24 CFR 570.200(h)(1), Reimbursement for pre-award costs.
Based on the approved 2007 CDBG funds, the County estimates that 100% of the 2007 CDBG grant funds will benefit low- and moderate-income persons in accordance with CDBG regulations.
Home Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program
The State of Hawai`i is required to submit its 2007 Action Plan to HUD for the 2007 HOME program. It is anticipated that the State will continue to divide the HOME funds among the three Neighbor Island counties. The County of Hawai`i anticipates it will receive approximately $985,000.00 for 2007 HOME program, $10,756.00 for the American Dream Downpayment Initiative Grant and has received program income of $24,862.21 and anticipates receiving approximately $25,000.00 of additional program income. This brings the total amount of HOME funds available for the 2007 HOME Program to $1,045,618.21.
To prepare for the 2007 HOME program, the County requested project proposals and will submit the following projects to the State’s Hawai`i Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) for approval – Ainakea Senior Residences – Hawai`i Island Community Development Corporation $624,583, Kaloko Transitional Housing Project $325,279.21, American Dream Downpayment Initiative $10,756 and Administration $85,000.
The amount for the Ainakea Senior Residences may change to accommodate the actual amount of grant or program income received or if there are any cancelled or reprogramming of HOME funds.
As required by the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, the County’s 2007 Action Plan will be available for public review from May 5, 2007 to May 11, 2007, at the Hawai`i State Public Libraries in Kamuela, Honoka`a, Pahala, Pahoa, and Kohala and also at the following locations, Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except on holidays.
Office of Housing and Hawai`i County Services
Community Development (OHCD) (Hanama Place)
50 Wailuku Drive 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Ste. 103
Hilo, Hawai`i 96720 Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740
Phone: V/TT(808)961-8379 Phone: (808) 329-5226
The OHCD will mail the final 2007 Action Plan to HUD, Honolulu Area Office, on May 11, 2007, to meet HUD’s submittal deadline of May 15, 2007.
Minimum Bottle Count Requirement Raised to 200 Containers
The State of Hawai`i Department of Health would like to inform all certified redemption centers that Governor Lingle has signed the amended Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR 11-282), which now require redemption centers to count loads of up to 200 deposit beverage containers upon customer request. The specific revised HAR language is as follows:
HAR §11-282-46(5) now states: If requested by a consumer, for loads of two hundred containers or less, redemption centers must compute redemption value by container count rather than by weight.
The rationale for changing the minimum bottle count requirement was to make things practical and reasonable for redemption customers, according to a Department of Health official.
“Most of the redemption customers have more than 50 containers to redeem at a time, and many want to go by count rather than weight,” said Lauren Willson of the Department of Health in Honolulu.
“The average load that people bring in is between 100 and 300, so the idea was to come in the middle, changing the minimum bottle count requirement to 200,“ Willson said. That was seen as being practical and reasonable.”
The rules change took effect on April 21, 2007. The Department of Health will be issuing a press release to inform the public of this change. Failure to comply with this requirement could result in penalties of up to $10,000 per violation per day.
Should you have any questions regarding this notice, please contact Lauren Willson of the DOH Office of Solid Waste Management (OSWM) at (808) 586-4226.
Seeking Applicants to Vacancies on County’s Boards and Commissions
The County of Hawai`i is seeking applicants from our community to the following Boards and Commissions which currently have vacancies:
1. Committee on Aging: Two vacancies; one in Kohala and one in Ka`u.
2. Arborist Advisory Committee: One vacancy (at-large).
3. Family Violence Advisory Committee: Presently not empanelled; we intend on doing so, so there are many vacancies (all at large).
4. Fire Board of Appeals: Five vacancies (all at-large).
5. Highway Safety Council: Four vacancies (all at-large).
6. Kailua Village Design Committee: Three vacancies.
7. Pension Board: One vacancy (at-large).
8. Salary Commission: Three vacancies; Council Districts 1, 4 and 6.
9. Transportation Commission: Two vacancies; Council Districts 1 and 4.
10. Veterans Advisory Committee: Four vacancies.
11. Water Board: One vacancy (Council District 8).
To apply, you may pick up an application at the Mayor’s Office at 891 Ululani Street, Hilo 96720 or the Kona mayor’s office at Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Suite 103, Kailua-Kona 96750. Upon completing the application, you may drop off or mail the application to either of the above addresses or to Lincoln Ashida, Corporation Counsel at Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Suite 325, Hilo 96720.
If you have any questions, please call Lincoln Ashida at 961-8251.
Water Restriction – Honoka`a, Ahualoa, Kalopa, Pohakea, Upper Paauilo, Kukuihaele
Due to the breakdown of the Haina Well pump, Department of Water Supply customers in the affected areas are under a Water Restriction. The Department of Water Supply will be replenishing the Honoka`a Hospital Tank by water tankers and the Waimea-Ahualoa Water Transmission System.
AFFECTED AREAS: Honoka`a, Ahualoa, Kalopa, Pohakea, Upper Paauilo, and Kukuihaele.
A Water Restriction calls for a 25% reduction in water use. With your full cooperation, residents can be supplied with water during this emergency, which is currently estimated to last two (2) weeks.
Listed are some ways to conserve water and reach the 25% goal:
• Wash only full loads of laundry or dishes at a time.
• Check faucets and pipes for leaks.
• Keep a container of drinking water in the refrigerator.
• Do not let water run when you wash, shave, or brush your teeth.
• Reduce showering times.
• Use water-saving devices.
• Use a broom instead of a water hose for cleaning.
• Irrigate at night and with a pail for small jobs.
All agricultural users, please keep water usage to a minimum. Irrigate only at night and during non- peak hours, from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Minimize dust control usage. Use water wisely.
For more information, please contact Daryl Ikeda at 961-8790.
Water Conservation Notice – Puakea Bay to Halawa in North Kohala
Due to a breakdown of the Hawi No. 2 Deepwell, the Department of Water Supply urges consumers in the affected area to conserve water while the repairs are being made. A water conservation notice is a voluntary action to reduce water usage by 10%.
Affected Area: Puakea Bay to Halawa, North Kohala water system.
For customers in the affected area of this Water Conservation Notice, a list of ways to reach the 10% reduction goal is provided:
- Wash full loads of laundry only.
- Wash full loads of dishes only.
- Serve drinking water only when requested.
- Do not let the faucet run unnecessarily.
- When bathing, use water only to wet and rinse off.
- Do not fill up the bathtub.
- Use a glass to rinse when brushing your teeth.
- Do not flush toilets unnecessarily.
- Stop lawn sprinkling.
- Stop car and boat washing.
- Stop dust control watering.
- Use drinking water wisely.
Agricultural users should irrigate only at night from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. This measure will reduce water loss due to evaporation and minimize water system drain during peak demand.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact Daryl Ikeda of the Department of Water Supply at 961-8790.
The Ikuo Hisaoka Gymnasium, a County Parks and Recreation facility in Kamehameha Park in Kapa`au, North Kohala, sustained major structural damage during the October 15, 2006 earthquake.
Extent of the damage
The connections where several of the building’s concrete columns join the steel roof framing were compromised by a loss of concrete around the anchor bolts connecting the two components.
The earthquake also damaged much of the suspended ceiling and many of the facility’s light fixtures. Other damage included broken plumbing fixtures, cracking of walls and broken tiles.
Where are we now on the Hisaoka Gym repair project?
Here are the most recent and upcoming developments, according to the Dept of Parks and Recreation:
- April 9, 2007: County completes execution of the consultant contract – signed by Mayor
- April 12, 2007: Parks and Rec issues executed contract and Notice to Proceed (the authorization to begin contractual work) to Inaba Architecture, LLC
- May 12, 2007: Structural repair work plans and specifications due to P&R for Hisaoka Gym
- July 11, 2007: Architectural repair work plans and specifications due to P&R for Hisaoka Gym.
The County’s emphasis is on getting the building structurally sound as soon as possible, so that the building may be entered safely.
Lots of people want to help
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the many people who have offered to help with the cleanup and repairs at Hisaoka Gym. The main objective now is to get the building structurally sound so that any workers or volunteers who want to help can enter the building safely.
Please know that as soon as we can, we will open up the building so that the volunteers can safely enter to offer their help.
Where are we now on the repairs to Keokea Beach Park Main Pavilion?
Here are the most recent and upcoming developments, according to the Dept of Parks and Recreation:
- March 23, 2007: Parks &Rec submits the draft Project Worksheet to the Dept of Public Works’ structural consultant for review and comment
- April 8, 2007: Insurer AIG submits draft Damage Assessment to Parks &Rec
- April 16, 2007: Parks & Rec submits AIG’s report to DPW’s structural consultant for review and comment
- To be announced Pending Final Project Worksheet from FEMA/State Civil Defense
- To be announced Pending finalization of scope of work and procurement of consultant to prepare plans and specifications.
For further information, please contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at 961-8311.
County Holds Positive Coaching Alliance Leadership Training
The County of Hawaii invites leaders in charge of youth activities and sports to participate in a Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) Leadership Workshop to be held in six Big Island districts. There is no charge to attend any of these workshops.
Five leadership workshops are being scheduled as follows:
Registration for these workshops will be from 5:30-6:00 p.m. so please come early.
- Hamakua Fri, May 9 at 6:00-8:00 p.m. Honoka`a Gym
- North/South Kohala Wed, May 23 at 6:00-8:00 p.m. Waimea Community Center
- Puna Wed, June 6 at 6:00-8:00 p.m. Venue to be announced
- Ka’u Wed, June 13 at 6:00-8:00 p.m. Pahala Community Center
- North/South Kona Wed, June 20 at 6:00-8:00 p.m. Venue to be announced
The PCA leadership workshops are being organized by the Recreation Division of the County’s Department of Parks and Recreation and HIPAL officers in Hilo and Kona.
Participants at the leadership workshops will guide development of the county’s brand new positive coaching program which is expected to include future year-round workshops for coaches, parents, athletes, and game officials.
Youth activities and sports leaders should contact the respective Recreation District Supervisors for information about attending these workshops:
- Hilo District, George Ikeda at 961-8739
- Puna District, Glenn Kokubun T/A at 965-2710
- Hamakua District, Edward Yokoyama at 964-3301
- N/S Kohala District, Dennis Matsuda at 887-3014
- N/S Kona District, Adam Borkowski at 327-3566.
PCA believes winning is a goal in youth sports, but there is a second, more important goal of using sports to teach life lessons through positive coaching. Get PCA information on the web at http://www.positivecoach.org
The Department of Parks and Recreation provides recreational opportunities without discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion or disability. Please call Alisa Mitchener, Recreation Specialist at 961-8740 ext. 24, VTTY 961-8736 to discuss your need for reasonable accommodation or for more information on site accessibility.
Bring your Old Computers to the Next Hilo CompuCycle Event May 11 and 26
The next opportunity to bring your old computer or other electronic equipment such as aged stereos, etc. is coming up in May. (Please note: The first day is for drop-offs by government and public agencies.)
May 11, 10:00am–2:00pm Kawamoto Swim Stadium Govt. & Public Agencies Drop-Off Day
May 26, 10:00am–2:00pm UH–Hilo, near the theatre Public Drop-Off Day
Items that will be accepted are: computers, monitors and other computer equipment, printers, copiers, televisions, DVD players, VCR’s, stereos, tape recorders.
For further information, please contact the recycling specialists of the Department of Environmental Management at 961-8549.
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.
Earthquake Repairs -- How to Apply for Building Permit Waiver
Here is some information regarding 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 .
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.
The following items will now be accepted in the Mixed Recycling drop-off bins at the following County Transfer Stations: Hawi, Honoka`a, Keauhou, Laupahoehoe, Pahoa, Pahala, Puako and Waimea.
Okay to Recycle:
· Paperboard or boxboard (cereal, tea, snack food boxes, etc.)
· Plastics #1 (milk jugs, detergent and bleach bottles, etc.)
· Metal cans (Rinsed tuna and cat food cans, soup cans, etc.)
· Newspapers and magazines
· Cardboard and brown paper bags (flattened)
· Mixed office paper and junk mail (No Brites)
· Phonebooks and paperbacks – torn into 3-4 sections
Please note: Materials taken to the Kealakehe, Hilo or the Kea‘au Transfer Stations are still commodity-separated. Please look for signage on where to place recycled materials at these sites.
Thank you for your kokua, as always. For more information, please call 961-8554 or 961-8942.
Redemption Centers – Hours of Operation
The following is a primer on the State of Hawai`i's beverage container redemption program works, and the location of the County of Hawai’i’s beverage container redemption sites:
Qualifying Beverage Containers:
What’s IN: Eligible (redeemable) beverage containers include: soft drinks, soda, water, juice, tea and coffee drinks, and low alcohol content drinks (beer, malt beverages, wine coolers, mixed spirits) in metal, glass or #1 plastic, 64 oz. or less.
What’s OUT: Ineligible (unredeemable) containers include: milk, wine and liquor containers.
Reminder: ONLY eligible HI5¢ labeled containers can be redeemed.
Qualified beverage containers may be redeemed for cash at the following locations:
**Transfer Station centers closed daily from 1:00-1:30pm for lunch.**
CURRENTLY OPEN |
DAYS/HOURS OF OPERATION |
OPERATOR |
|
|
|
Hawi Transfer Station** |
Saturday only: 8 am-4:30 pm. |
ARC of Hilo |
(Open Saturday only) |
(closed for lunch 1:00-1:30) |
|
Hilo, 1260 Kilauea Ave. (Closed 12 noon-1:00 pm)
|
Tues-Sat 9am-5pm |
Reynolds Recycling |
Hilo, 30 Maka’ala Street |
Mon thru Fri: 8:00am-5:00pm |
Atlas Recycling |
(Old industrial area) |
Sat & Sun: 8:00am-3:00pm |
|
|
|
|
Hilo Transfer Station** |
Daily 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
|
|
|
Honoka`a Transfer Station (Weekends only)
|
Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30 |
ARC of Hilo |
Kailua-Kona, Pawai Place |
Mon thru Fri: 7:00am-4:00pm |
Atlas Recycling |
(Old industrial area) |
Sat 8:00am-3:00pm |