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May 18, 2007
Hawai`i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
FEATURE ARTICLE
· Buckle Up – Hawai`i County Joins Nation in Click It or Ticket Campaign
· Drilling is Complete on Exploratory Well in Honokohau, North Kona
COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD
· Public Outreach Meetings on Puna Transportation Issues May 18, 19
· Water Dept Holds Public Meeting on Ocean View Well Project May 23
· 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
· Now You Can Click and Check on County-Issued Permits Online
· 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
· Water Conservation Notice -- Na`alehu, Waiohinu to South Point in Ka`u
· County Holds Positive Coaching Alliance Leadership Training
· Bring your Old Computer to the Next Hilo CompuCycle Event May 26
· Sign Up for Coqui Control Class to be Held in Volcano June 25
· 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
· Kailua Village Business Improvement District Talk Story Sessions
· Waimea Community Chorus Concert May 18, 19, 20 at Parker School
· Hawai`i Medical Reserve Corp – You Can Help
· Enjoy Some Hamakua Hospitality during Western Week May 19-28
· Parenting of Teens or Pre-Teens –Training Sessions May 2-June 13 in Kona
· Kamehameha Day Celebration on Coconut Island June 11
· 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
· Water Dept to Work on Service Lines along Hwy 11 in Hookena May 22
· Traffic Calming Along La`aloa Avenue in Kona to Commence
· Temporary Traffic Signal on Mamalahoa Highway in North Kona
· Roadwork is Happening Around the Island of Hawai`i
FEATURE ARTICLES
Buckle Up – Hawai`i County Joins Nation in Click It or Ticket Campaign
The following article is courtesy of Carrie Kuwada Phipps of the State Department of Health, based in Kona. (This article originally appeared in slightly different form in West Hawai`i Today. Ms. Kuwada Phipps obtained permission from WHT to offer this to the County newsletter as a public service.)
From May 21, Hawai`i County will be joining the rest of the nation in implementing its 6th Annual “Click It or Ticket Campaign”. The State Department of Transportation and all four county police departments in Hawai`i will be conducting seat belt and child restraint enforcement between May 21st and June 3rd.
Although the Hawai`i County Police Department enforces the current seat belt and child restraint use laws all year around, the Click It or Ticket Campaign increases the concentration of enforcement during the campaign period.
During this time, in addition to enforcement, two other critical areas of seat belt usage are employed which include education and a media campaign. According to Sergeant Dexter Veriato of the Hawai`i County Police Department, 4,099 seat belt citations and 257 child restraint citations were given out during 2006.
Seatbelts and child restraints save lives
It’s a fact that using seat belts and properly using child restraints save lives, yet we who live Hawai`i don’t always do what’s right for ourselves and for our keiki.
A high seat belt usage rate is vital in reducing motor vehicle fatalities and injuries. Wearing a seat belt correctly can increase your chance of surviving a motor vehicle crash by as much as 45%.
Of the total number of fatalities due to motor vehicle crashes statewide in 2006, 44 of them could have been prevented if those individuals had worn their seatbelts.
On Hawai`i Island, there were 39 fatalities in 2006, in which 13 of the 39 crash victims were not wearing seatbelts. Potentially, half of those 13 individuals would still be alive today had they worn their seatbelts.
An important fact to keep in mind is that Hawai`i County has the highest number of motor vehicle crashes and fatalities in the state. It’s time to get akamai and buckle up.
Seat belt use – Hawai`i is no longer Number One in the nation
Statewide, the seat belt usage rates had steadily increased since 2002 with each Click It or Ticket Campaign. In 2005, Hawai`i’s seat belt usage rate rose to 95.3%, which made us Number One in the nation.
Since then, our usage rates have declined, and our state of Hawai`i no longer leads the nation in seat belt usage.
Current rates in our counties are as follows with Maui County leading the way: Maui County: 96.12%; Kauai County: 94.99%; Hawai`i County: 94.20%; City and County of Honolulu: 94.01% which brings us to a state average of 94.56%. Most unfortunate is the much lower than 94% usage rate of car seats or child restraints by our keiki. Our keiki need us adults to buckle them up safely.
Aiming for at least 96% seat belt use on our island
This year’s campaign goal is to increase our state seat belt usage rate to 97% and to increase Hawai`i County’s usage rate to at least 96%. We can achieve this if we all buckle up -- making sure all of our car occupants are buckled up and by buckling up our keiki in a proper child restraint.
Our current seat belt law requires those riding in the front seat to use their seat belts, and passengers aged 17 and under to use their seat belts when riding in the back seat. Please remember that anybody, regardless of age, will become a flying projectile in a car crash and could not only be fatally injured themselves, but could fatally injure anyone else in the car.
Hefty fine for seat belt violation
Violators of the seat belt laws must pay a total of $92, which includes a $45 fine, a $30 administrative fee, a $7 driver education fee, and a $10 neurotrauma special fund surcharge.
Hawai`i’s Child Passenger Restraint Law requires children under 4 years old to ride in a child safety seat. The new booster seat law requires children between the ages of 4-8 to ride in a child safety seat or a booster seat, as they are too small to use a seat belt safely.
Seat belts are made for adult passengers. Violators of the child passenger restraint law are required to attend a 4-hour class and may be assessed a fine of $100-$500, depending upon the number of offenses.
Safety belt use and the correct use of child passenger restraints are the most effective ways to prevent fatalities and injuries in motor vehicle traffic crashes. Start today – Be Akamai, Buckle Up and Buckle Up Your Keiki.
Drilling is Complete on Exploratory Well in Honokohau, North Kona
Back in September of 2006, the County of Hawai‘i, Department of Water Supply (DWS) announced a new exploratory well drilling project for the North Kona area. The proposed well site is in Honokohau, approximately 700 feet south of the Kaloko boundary at the 1,700 foot elevation.
The drilling of the exploratory well is now complete.
Once fully-developed and dedicated to DWS, this well is expected to provide an additional source of high quality water for the North Kona community and to further improve the reliability of the Department of Water Supply’s current water system.
The well project was initiated by private development, but it has been designed to DWS standards and is geared to the County’s existing water system infrastructure. The project will provide water capacity beyond the needs of the private developer, which will benefit the general community.
Drilling of the exploratory well is complete; pump test is upcoming
Now that drilling of the exploratory well is complete, a continuous pump test needs to be performed to determine the well’s safe-yield (the capacity of the well). The pump test is expected to occur between May 21, 2007 and May 31, 2007.
Hours of operation for the pump test will be for at least 96 continuous hours. The equipment used at the site is designed to minimize noise, such as sound-attenuated compressors, and engines equipped with industrial silencers.
Water Supply coordinates multiple projects to meet the needs of West Hawai`i
The Department of Water Supply is coordinating multiple projects to be completed over the next five years. We hope to make great strides in improving the water system infrastructure to better meet the current and future needs of West Hawai'i. With the cooperation, understanding, and support of the public we may continue to provide safe, dependable, good-tasting water at the lowest rates possible.
Should you have any questions, please contact our Water Resources and Planning Branch at (808) 961-8070.
COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD
Public Outreach Meetings on Puna Transportation Issues May 18, 19
Puna transportation issues will be the topic of public outreach meetings in three Puna locations, and the public is cordially invited to attend.
Wayne Yoshioka of Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc., transportation sub-consultant for the Puna Community Development Plan, will present his initial findings on the roadway and transportation issues facing Puna. His presentation will be based on previous transportation studies, community input received so far and Puna CDP Working Group reports.
Wayne will also be asking for input from the Puna community to ensure that his focus and subsequent recommendations for the Puna CDP will accurately reflect the concerns of Puna residents.
Please plan to attend one of the meetings listed below. This is your opportunity to effectively participate in the planning of transportation infrastructure in Puna, and to take part in the decision-making process of the Puna Community Development Plan (CDP).
WHEN AND WHERE:
· Friday May 18, 2007 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Cooper Center – Volcano
· Saturday May 19, 2007 10:00 AM - 12:00 Noon Maku`u Farmers Market
· Saturday May 19, 2007 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Kea`au Elementary School Cafeteria
Puna Transportation Issues :
· Highway safety and crash reduction for our community
· Roadway aesthetics on any new or upgraded roadways in Puna
· Traffic efficiency and new connectivity for Puna
· Emergency Response & Evacuation Capabilities
For more information, please contact Larry Brown, Planning Department at 961-8288, ext. 258 or e-mail: lbrown@co.hawaii.hi.us .
Any person with disabilities requiring special assistance or person requiring auxiliary aid and/or services to participate in the meetings should contact the Planning Department at 961-8288 not less than three (3) working days prior to the event so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
Malama Puna A Mauloa (Caring For Puna Forever).
Water Dept Holds Public Meeting on Ocean View Well Project May 23
The Department of Water Supply (DWS) invites the public to attend a public meeting regarding a water project in Ocean View as follows:
WHERE: Ocean View Community Center (Leilani Circle)
WHEN: Wednesday, May 23, 2007 at 6:00 p.m.
The DWS is preparing an Environmental Assessment for a project in the Ocean View area that would provide:
· A County-operated potable water well and reservoir within Paradise Circle Makai;
· A spigot and standpipe facility off Lehua Lane near State Highway #11 that would provide readily-accessible public spigots for residents to easily obtain their own drinking water, as well as standpipes for water-hauling trucks to have a source closer to their customers, reducing the cost of water and providing a vital public health service; and
· A water transmission line that will establish the basis for fire protection for Ocean View Town Center and Pohue Plaza.
At this meeting, officials and consultants from the DWS will present information concerning the planned project and will answer questions about water supply, the construction schedule and other items.
For more information, please contact Shari Komata at 961-8070.
Hawai`i 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 Hawai`i 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.
· 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.
Hawai`i 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 Hawai`i 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 Hawai`i 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 Hawai`i 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 Hawai`i 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 Hawai`i 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 Hawai`i’s Early Intervention Services program. Easter Seals Hawai`i 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 Hawai`i (asthma awareness and education), Hospice of Hilo, and the County of Hawai`i Prosecuting Attorney’s Office (Keiki ID) will provide their services to the public.
The Easter Seals Hawai`i 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 Hawai`i’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 Hawai`i Island. 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.
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.
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.
Water Conservation Notice –Na`alehu, Waiohinu to South Point in Ka`u
Due to the large demand of water and the ongoing dry weather conditions, the Department of Water Supply is requesting consumers in the affected areas to reduce your daily water usage by 10%.
Affected area: Na`alehu, Waiohinu to South Point in Ka`u
Listed are some ways to conserve water to reach the 10% goal:
- 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 shall 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.
For more information, please contact Daryl Ikeda 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 Hawai`i 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.
- 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 26
The next Hilo CompuCycle will be on Saturday, May 26, an excellent opportunity to bring your old computer or other electronic equipment such as aged stereos, etc. for recycling.
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.
Sign Up for Coqui Control Class to be Held in Volcano June 25
Coqui frogs are a noisy pest in our community and an environmental and economic menace. The Coqui Frog Working Group in partnership with the County of Hawaii, State of Hawaii Department of Agriculture, UH Manoa - College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, UH Hilo Biology Dept, USDA Wildlife Services, and The Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife will provide a Coqui Control Class on Monday, June 25, 2007 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm at Volcano Cooper Center located at 19-4030 Wright Road in Volcano.
WHEN: Monday, June 25 from 6:30-8:30 pm
WHERE: Volcano Cooper Center at 19-4030 Wright Road, Volcano.
In areas where there are no major infestations it is imperative to keep the coqui frog out. This class will discuss strategies for preventing infestations from occurring, how to eradicate existing populations and organize your community to keep the frogs out.
The agenda also includes information on the coqui frog life cycle, non-chemical control options, chemical safety and spraying techniques, large capacity sprayer training, and availability of community resources.
The class is free but RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED due to limited space. For reservations please call the County of Hawaii Coqui Eradication & Control Office at 961-8065.
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 Hawai`i 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 Hawai`i 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 Hawai`i.
· 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 |
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Hawi Transfer Station** |
Saturday only: 8 am-4:30 pm. |
ARC of Hilo |
(Open Saturday only) |
(closed for lunch 1:00-1:30) |
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Hilo, 1260 Kilauea Ave. (Closed 12 noon-1:00 pm)
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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 |
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