FEATURE ARTICLE

·         Hawai`i County Seeks Applicants for Police Officer I Recruitment

COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

·         Kona Crime Prevention Committee Hosts 2007 Officer of the Year Luncheon Sept 12

·         Fire Chief’s Community Update for West Hawai`i on Wednesday, Sept 12

·         7^th Annual Youth Action Summit in Hilo Wednesday September 19

·         Spots Available with Big Island Group’s “Trash Tour” on Oahu October 1

·         Public Meeting September 12 on Komohana Hgts Large Capacity Cesspool Replacement

·         Home Repair Loans Available for Hawaiian Home Lessees

·         Big Island Film Office Seminar in Waimea September 20

·         Honomu Transfer Station to Be Gated Beginning September 10

·         Dept of Environmental Management Solid Waste Projects Update

·         Drought Information Update

·         County Seeks Applicants for Public Access, Salary Commission Vacancies

·         County of Hawai`i Offers Home Repair Loans

·         Family Self-Sufficiency Program Informational Meetings Sept 17, 19

·         Fire Prevention Week Activities October 7-13 in Hawai`i County

·         Homeownership Option Program Informational Meetings Oct 15, 17

·         County Accepting Applications for Elderly Housing in Pepe`ekeo

·         Vacancies on the County’s Boards and Commissions

·         Hisaoka Gym Repairs Update

·         Recycling Drop-Offs -- Update

·         Redemption Centers – Locations and Hours of Operation

·         Kuakini Highway Update

·         Job Announcements

COMMUNITIES IN ACTION

·         Hawai`i Home Ownership Center Offers Free Orientations

·         Healthcare in West Hawai`i is Subject of Kona Town Meeting September 11

·         Community Emergency Response Team Training in Puna September 1, 8, 15 & 22

·         Mapping Hawai`i Communities Workshop: Introduction to GIS and Community Analysis

·         Hawai`i Island Food Summit October 6 to Explore Food Security in Hawai`i

·         High-Quality Mulch Available at Kealakehe Transfer Station -- Update

·         Check Out our County’s Community Development Plan Website

TRAFFIC ALERT

·         Signs and Markings Projects

·         County to Repave Kona Hospital Access Road Sunday, September 9 (New Date)

·         County Constructs Second Public Parking Lot in Kainaliu

·         County to Clear Post-Quake Debris from Old Laupahoehoe Road

UPCOMING EVENTS

HAWAII COUNTY WEBSITE

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FEATURE ARTICLES

Hawai`i County Seeks Applicants for Police Officer I Recruitment

The County of Hawai`i has recently launched a new ad for Police Officer I recruitments, with the new starting salary effective July 1, 2007.  The following information was provided by Gabriella Cabanas of the Department of Human Resources.

 

Live and work on a beautiful island and experience the spirit of Aloha.  Join the Hawai`i Police Department and make a difference ensuring public safety as a Police Officer.

 

The County of Hawai`i is seeking applicants for its Police Officer I (Recruit Level) recruitment.  This recruitment is open on a continuous basis.  Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED), a valid driver’s license, and be at least 21 years of age.

 

Applicants must be qualified to carry and/or possess firearms and ammunition in accordance with state and federal laws, e.g., no misdemeanor or felony domestic violence convictions.

 

Starting Salary:  $43,020.00 year.  Salary increases to $47,412.00 year after the first 18 months of employment.  (After this, 6% pay increases on 07/01/09 and 07/01/10)

 

After 4 years of Hawai`i County police service, the police officer will earn $55,476.00 year.

 

Being a member of the Hawai`i Police Department means a substantial benefits package:

 

• Automobile allowance - $599.00 monthly ($600.00 monthly effective 01/01/08)
• Standard of Conduct Differential - $138.68 monthly.
• Effective 7/01/09: Firearm allowance - $420.00/fiscal year.
• Effective 7/01/09:  Uniform allowance - $300.00/fiscal year.
• Vacation  21 days/year
• Sick leave 21 days/year
• Holidays - 13 days per year + general election day in an election year.
• Retirement Plan – eligible to retire with 25 years of Hawai`i police service.
• Medical Plan – 60% County share/40% employee share.  Choice of health plans, and dependent children under the age of 19, and full-time students under the age of 24 are eligible.
• Vision, Prescription Drug, and Dental Plans – 60% County share/40% employee share.  Family, 2 party, or single plan.
• Group Life Insurance – free.  Coverage $36,225 for active employee under 65 years of age.
• Workers' Compensation/Accidental Injury Leave/Temporary Disability Insurance.
• Night Differential (6 pm – 6 am) $.55 per hour for each hour of actual work performed.
• Paid Overtime (Over 8 hours and over 40 hours)
• Special Off-Duty Assignments ($32.00 hour) – eligible for special duty assignments after completion of initial probationary period.
• Other Benefits – membership in the County Credit Union, State of Hawai`i Organization of Police Officers union, the Flexible Spending Plan, and the State of Hawai`i Deferred Compensation Plan.

 

Note: The Hawai`i Police Department hold on average three police academy classes per year (Spring, Summer, & Winter).  

 

Please consider a most rewarding career with the Hawai`i Police Department.

 

Visit our website at www.co.hawaii.hi.us, or call the County’s job hotline at (808) 961-8618.  The County of Hawai`i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.

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COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

Kona Crime Prevention Committee Hosts Officer of the Year Luncheon Sept 12

On Wednesday September 12th the Kona Crime Prevention Committee will announce the winner of its 2007 Officer of the Year award at a buffet lunch “Honoring Our Own” at The King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel in the Ballroom at 12 noon. 

 

The Officer of the Year will be chosen from the group of Officers who were chosen as Officer of the Month from July 2006 through June 2007.

 

The public is invited to attend the lunch and show their appreciation for the job our Kona Officers do to protect and serve our community, keeping our streets, homes and loved ones safe.  The cost of the buffet lunch is $30 and will include entertainment by the Sergeant Russell Paio trio, dancers from the Kealakehe Neighborhood Youth Crime Watch, and parking.   For reservations please contact Liz Holley at 326-7787 by September 9.

 

The Kona Crime Prevention Committee encourages community involvement in aiding and supporting the Kona District Police Department in their efforts to prevent crime, deter potential criminals and enforce the law.  The KCPC also periodically provides equipment needed by the police to improve law enforcement here in Kona.  Membership is open to all organizations or individuals who want to become part of the solution, and is effective upon payment of individual dues of $35 or corporate dues of $50.   For membership information, please e-mail dstoneleaf@hotmail.com .

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Fire Chief’s Community Update for West Hawai`i on Wed, Sept 12

Please join Fire Chief Darryl Oliveira for a community update on the fire department’s activities and projects in West Hawai`i on Wednesday, September 12.

 

WHEN:          Wednesday, September 12, 9:30 – 10:00 a.m.

WHERE:       Liquor Control Conference Room, Kona Center Building, 75-5722 Hanama Place, Suite 1107, Kailua-Kona

 

The public is also welcome to attend the Hawai`i County Fire Commission meeting which begins at 10:00.

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7^th Annual Youth Action Summit in Hilo Wednesday September 19

The 7^th Annual Youth Action Summit, whose theme this year is “A Path to Change”, will be held on Wednesday, September 19 at the Hilo Women’s Club.  Youth from around the island are invited (in groups of 5 plus an advisor) to this one-day summit in which they learn how to 1) identify priority issues in their communities, 2) identify potential solutions, 3) develop ideas for service projects and 4) learn the basics of writing for a community grant.

 

This event, presented by the Hawai`i County Office of the Prosecuting Attorney and Na Leo O Na `Opio and Waiakea High School, aims to empower the young citizens of Hawai`i County in effectively addressing issues that are faced in their community.

 

WHEN:          Wednesday, September 19, 8:30 am – 3:00 pm.

WHERE:       Hilo Women’s Club 7 Lele Street, Hilo

 

Participants will do the following:

• Network with fellow delegates
• Identify a problem and propose a solution in your community
• Write an action plan for your solution
• Write a grant proposal to secure funding.

 

Among the speakers will be Prosecuting Attorney Jay Kimura, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Mitch Roth, David De Luz, Jr. of Crime Stoppers and Beth Dykstra, Grant Specialist at the Department of Research and Development.

 

For further information, please contact Lisa Faulkner-Inouye, Hawaii County Comprehensive Strategy for Juvenile Justice, Office of the Prosecuting Attorney at lmf96720@yahoo.com or at 934-3310.

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Spots Available with Big Island Group’s “Trash Tour” on Oahu October 1

On October 1st, members of the County Environmental Management Commission and a group of Big Island residents will tour solid waste and wastewater facilities on Oahu. 

 

The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Environmental Services is hosting this tour, which will include HPower (the waste processing facility), Hawaiian Earth Products (composting facility), Hilton Hawaiian Village (or another big hotel to view their recycling program), Honouliuli WWTP and Reclamation Facility, Automotive Equipment Services (AES) recycling company and tire processor.

 

There are currently 8 empty seats on the tour van. Attendees are responsible for their own flight arrangements to and from Honolulu and for lunch.  The tour hours will be from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and will begin at the Honolulu Airport. 

 

If you are interested in joining the group on Oahu, contact the County of Hawai‘i Department of Environmental Management at 961-8083. The seats will be filled first come first serve.

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Public Meeting on Komohana Hgts Large Capacity Cesspool Replacement

The community is invited to attend a public meeting on Wednesday, September 12 regarding the Komohana Heights Large Capacity Cesspool (LCC) Replacement in the 2nd Kukuau District of Hilo

 

WHERE:       Aupuni Center Conference Room, 101 Pauahi Street, Hilo

WHEN:          Wednesday, September 12, 6:00 – 8:00 pm.

 

The County of Hawai`i is planning to construct a sewer system upgrade that will connect the Komohana Heights Subdivision (Hilo) and adjacent properties to the County sewer system.  This is a result of a federal mandate requiring that the County close two existing County-owned Large Capacity Cesspools (LCCs) currently serving the Komohana Heights Subdivision.

 

The result of this mandate is that additional properties in the area will now be accessible to County sewer.  Additional plans include removing the Sunrise Ridge Sewage Pump Station located in the Sunrise Ridge Subdivision.  The subdivision can expect continued sewer disposal service via the County sewer system.

 

Interested individuals are invited to attend a public meeting on September 12, 2007 organized by the Department of Environmental Management in conjunction with Council Member Donald Ikeda’s office.  This will be an opportunity to share any questions or concerns about the project.  The Preliminary Engineering Report (PER) relating to this work can be viewed on the County website at:  http://co.hawaii.hi.us/directory/dir_envmng.htm . 

 

Individuals requiring special needs accommodations should call Ms. Dora Beck of the Department of Environmental Management at (808) 961-8028 at least five working days prior to the meeting date.

Please contact:  Dora Beck, P.E., Technical Services Section Chief, (808) 961-8028.

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Home Repair Loans Available for Hawaiian Home Lessees

The Office of Housing and Community Development is pleased to announce that it is currently accepting applications to its Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) Home Repair Loan Program.

 

NAHASDA was established by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) and administered by the Office of Housing and Community Development to make low-interest loans available to low-and moderate-income DHHL lessees who are interested in repairing their primary residence.

 

The NAHASDA loan can be used for roof repairs, electrical and plumbing work, sewer improvements, termite treatment and damages caused by termites or wood rot and the installation of a solar water heating system in conjunction with repairs.

 

Loans range from $2,500 to $50,000 at 0% to 3% interest.  The interest rate is set based on age and income.

 

Applicants 62 years or older and very-low income may have a 0% interest and deferred payment loan with a possible grant provision.

 

For more information or an application contact Dawnelle Forsythe at 959-4642.  Application packets can also be found on-line at http://www.hawaii-county.com/directory/dir_housing.htm .

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Big Island Film Office Seminar in Waimea September 20

Filmmakers and all those interested in film production on the Big Island are invited to attend a seminar sponsored by the Big Island Film Office. The film production seminar Perspectives from Filmmakers: Where We Are Today, Where Can We Be Tomorrow will be held at Anna Ranch in Waimea on Thursday, September 20 from 4-6 pm.

 

The film production seminar will look at the challenges and opportunities of professional film production on the Big Island today.

 

Expert filmmaker panelists will address various aspects of filmmaking with an eye to building networks, awareness, and action plans to create a stronger, more competitive and more inclusive film production community on The Big Island.

 

Among the speakers will be John Mason, newly-appointed Film Commissioner of Hawai’i County’s Big Island Film Office, who worked for Eastman Kodak in Hollywood.  He is charged with growing the Big Island’s film and video business, to serve both local filmmakers and those who come in to produce from other countries.

 

Mason will give his overview of production trends, types of production, key industry happenings, issues and challenges facing the production business and industry on the Big Island.

 

Following the recent success of the George Lucas, Steven Spielberg and Harrison Ford film shoot for the latest “Indiana Jones” series sequel, the State of Hawai`i is seeing a record film production year with anticipated revenues in 2007 of more than $200 million.

 

Bob Duerr of Hilo’s Kappa Productions will look at strategic business needs for local production expansion. Since 1978 Kappa Productions has been involved with film productions involving subjects ranging from NASA to the rock band AC/DC.

 

Award-winning independent filmmaker GB Hajim, producer/director of Hakalau-based Screaming Wink Productions, will discuss his current production of a full-length animation: “Strange Frame.”

 

Anthony “Tweed” Johnston and Tom Penny, IATSE Local 665 members and local resident technical experts, will discuss below the line production and technical issues, and will share their views on, “Can we support high level professional production on The Big Island?”

 

The community filmmaking perspective will be given by Prema Qadir, a retired civil engineer and owner of Bliss Productions.  Qadir will look at the training, access, cost, cultural and technical issues facing those who want to use film and video to tell their stories and make a difference in their communities.

 

Ari Bernstein, Director of Digital Media at the Hawai’i Preparatory Academy, is a graduate of USC film school, MFA and owner of Lalamilo Productions.  Bernstein has completed 35 shorts, five documentaries, and a low budget-feature while living in Los Angeles.  Bernstein teaches filmmaking strategies that maximize budget while working with small specialized crews.

 

Rounding out the seminar is special guest speaker Kristin McGrath, Senior Director of Sales and Marketing, Big Island Visitors Bureau.  McGrath will talk about Hawai’i Island as a tourist and locations destination, which is one of the prime drivers of production activity here.

 

Questions and answers will follow the panelists’ presentations. A brief reception will follow the program.

 

There is a $15 registration fee for attendees, with $5 charged for students.

 

Seating is limited so reservations are advised.  Reserve today by calling John Mason at the Big Island Film Office at 808-327-3663 or email him at film@bigisland.com .

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Honomu Transfer Station to Be Gated Beginning September 10

The County of Hawai`i’s Honomu Solid Waste Transfer Station will be gated and manned beginning Monday, September 10, 2007. A security guard will be available to assist with Solid Waste information and to ensure compliance with State-mandated operating regulations.  The hours of operation will be from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily.

 

All Big Island transfer stations are permitted for collection of household refuse only.  Commercial haulers and residents with large loads need to take their refuse to the South Hilo or West Hawai`i Sanitary Landfills.

 

We appreciate your cooperation.

 

For more information call Bobby Gonsalves, Solid Waste Operations Superintendent at 961-8514.

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Dept of Environmental Management Solid Waste Projects Update

The following is a list of current and upcoming projects at our Solid Waste Transfer Stations and Baseyards.  These projects address safety concerns, general repair and maintenance, environmental issues and Department of Health regulations.

 

All project dates may be subject to change without notice due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

 

Location of Project	Council District	Work being done
Paauilo Transfer Station	1	Chute- rainbreak, cover work(completed 8/24/07)
Honomu Transfer Station	1	Install fence and gates, currently in progress
Hilo Baseyard	4	Glasscrete pad, currently in progress
Keauhou Transfer Station	7	Gate repair, awarded 8/24/07
Laupahoehoe Transfer Station	1	Tree removal (safety issues) awarded 8/24/07
Papa`ikou Transfer Station	1	Tree removal (safety issues) awarded 8/24/07
Honoka`a Transfer Station	1	Install access ramps, work to begin 9/7/07

 

For further information, please contact Terin Gloor, Solid Waste Civil Engineer at 961-8058.

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Drought Information Update

AFFECTED AREAS: WAIMEA TOWN TO KAWAIHAE, UPPER PA‘AUILO AND AHUALOA DISTRICTS OF SOUTH KOHALA AND HAMAKUA, HAWAII

 

The Water Restriction Notice posted on May 31, 2007 has been downgraded to a Water Conservation Notice for the affected areas above due to increased rainfall and completion of two backup water source projects in the districts. 

 

The Water Conservation Notice calls for a voluntary 10% reduction in daily domestic water use.  We ask for the public's continuing support to reduce use because domestic water supplies in these areas remain under stressed conditions.  This is due to drastically reduced storage capacity in the Waimea reservoirs undergoing remedial reservoir repairs following the earthquake.  Please refer to the Notice at the Department website for ways to conserve water: www.hawaiidws.org .

 

Storage in the reservoir has increased significantly in recent weeks: water storage is 81.5 million gallons (mg) total today.

 

In the meantime, emergency projects focus on three backup water sources being brought on line to meet the current demand.  The following is an update of the emergency projects the Department has completed or continues to pursue:

 

·        Waimea Country Club Well: Due to increased water storage, this well is on reserve as a back up water source.  

·        Waimea Treatment Plant Well:  Due to increased water storage, this well is on reserve as a back up water source. 

·        Pu‘ukapu State Irrigation Well/White Road Pipeline:  The Department of Agriculture is working with a contractor to troubleshoot an electrical problem with the pump.  The Department also awaits water quality resample analyses by MWH Lab.  Upon receipt of lab results, we will forward to DOH for approval. 

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County Seeks Applicants for Public Access, Salary Commission Vacancies

The County of Hawai`i is seeking civic-minded applicants to fill vacancies on County commissions.  Citizens have the opportunity to serve on important boards and commissions that make decisions which affect the quality of life on our island, and determine the future for generations to come.

 

The following commissions currently have vacancies:

·        Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission: District 3 vacancy (represented by Council member J Yoshimoto)

·        Salary Commission:  Vacancies in District 4 (represented by Council member Stacy Higa), District 5 (represented by Council member Emily Naeole), District 6 (represented by Council member Bob Jacobson).

 

The Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission, commonly known as the “Open Space Commission,” is charged with developing and maintaining a prioritized list of qualifying lands within the County worthy of preservation, and to make annual recommendations to the Mayor and County Council regarding those properties.  This commission includes nine members appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the Council.

 

The Salary Commission reviews and compensates all County elected officials and appointed directors and deputy directors so that their total salaries and benefits have a reasonable relationship to compensation in the public and private sectors.  The Salary Commission consults with those boards and commissions which have appointing authority for department heads.

 

Volunteering for commissions normally takes no more than one day a month, and a few hours a month in preparation time.  You will have the satisfaction of knowing you have served your community and played a part in shaping the future of our island.

 

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.  Applications may also be found on line at www.hawaii-county.com , after clicking on the board/commission link.  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. Phone: (808) 961-8304, extension 118, or via email at Lashida@co.hawaii.hi.us  .

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County of Hawai`i Offers Home Repair Loans

The Office of Housing and Community Development is currently accepting applications to its Residential Emergency Repair Program (RERP).  This program was established in 1997 to make low-interest loans available to low-and moderate-income homeowners who are interested in repairing and improving their primary residence.

 

The RERP loan can be used for roof repairs, electrical and plumbing work, sewer improvements, termite treatment and damages caused by termites or wood rot and the installation of a solar water heating system.

 

Loans range from $2,500 to $25,000 at 3% interest.  Loan payments are deferred for 15 years at which time full payment will be due.  Applicants 62 years or older or with special needs may have 30% of the principal balance of the loan forgiven as a grant.

 

For more information or an application contact Dawnelle Forsythe at 959-4642.  Application packets can also be found on-line at http://www.hawaii-county.com/directory/dir_housing.htm . 

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Family Self-Sufficiency Program Info Meetings Sept 17, 19

The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program is a voluntary employment-based program which helps Housing Choice Voucher Section 8 families to obtain the skills they need to achieve financial independence.

 

A key benefit is that an escrow savings account may be established for the family. 

 

The following informational meetings will be held. 

 

WHEN & WHERE:  Monday, Sept. 17 at 9 am, 11 am and 1:30 pm, 1990 Kinoole St, Suite 104, Hilo.

WHEN & WHERE:  Wednesday, Sept. 19 at 9 am, 11 am and 1:30 pm, Pahoa Community Center.

 

To attend, you must call 959-7476 to reserve a space.  If there is insufficient participation, meeting times may be cancelled or combined.

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Fire Prevention Week Activities October 7-13 in Hawai`i County

The Hawaii Fire Department would like to invite the public to join them as they celebrate Fire Prevention Week from October 7 to 13, 2007.

 

This year’s nationwide theme, “Practice Your Escape Plan” underscores a simple fact:  It’s not enough to have a home fire escape plan.  To escape safely, you’ve got to make sure that everyone in the home has practiced the plan.

 

Participation in Fire Prevention Week highlights the Department’s ongoing efforts to increase public awareness through fire safety education and fire prevention programs.  They are celebrating Fire Prevention Week with open houses at all 20 of its fire stations through the County of Hawaii, during which the public can meet firefighters, tour stations, and receive information about fire safety and fire prevention.

 

This year’s activities will conclude with static displays and demonstrations for the public at the Hilo Bayfront area on Saturday, October 13, 2007, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  Among the agencies invited to participate are State airport crash crew, Department of Land & Natural Resources--Forestry and Wildlife, Pohakuloa Training Area, and the Fire Department’s Prevention Bureau, engine companies, ocean safety, rescue teams, and volunteer firefighters.

 

We also challenge businesses and organizations to enter a team in the ever-popular “bucket brigade” event, which is being sponsored by K-BIG, Da Beat, KAPA and ESPN radio.  The event, which will begin at about 11:00 a.m., involves five person teams who have to pass buckets of water from person to person, and the team that successfully manages to transport the most water to the “fire” is declared the winner.  Please call Aileen at 961-0651, extension 107, for more information or sign up.  The event will be limited to 24 teams.

 

Every fire safety team begins with firefighters and other first responders.  But the Fire Department can’t do it alone—they need to involve and educate the public of their role in effective fire safety.  Please help them spread the message, “Practice Your Escape Plan.”

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Homeownership Option Program Info Meetings Oct 15, 17

The Homeownership Option Program (HOP) is a voluntary program which offers Housing Choice Voucher Section 8 eligible families an option to apply their program assistance towards homeownership rather than rent.

 

Whereas the program currently helps families to pay rent, eligible families may be helped instead to pay their mortgage.

 

The following informational meetings will be held:

 

WHEN & WHERE:  Monday, Oct. 15 at 9 am, 11 am and 1:30 pm, 1990 Kinoole Street, Suite 104, Hilo.

WHEN & WHERE:  Wednesday, Oct. 17 at 9 am, 11 am and 1:30 pm, Pahoa Community Center.

 

To attend, you must call 959-7476 to reserve a space.  If there is insufficient participation, meeting times may be cancelled or combined.

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County Accepting Applications for Elderly Housing in Pepe`ekeo

The County of Hawaii, Office of Housing and Community (OHCD) is currently accepting applications for one-bedroom units located at the Kula`imano Elderly Housing Project in Pepe`ekeo. 

 

Occupancy cannot exceed 2 persons per unit.  Eligible applicants must be 62 years of age or older and meet income requirements.  The tenant’s share of rent is based on gross income of the household.

 

Gross annual income by household size cannot exceed:

·        1-person household              $ 21,800

·        2-person household              $ 24,900

 

Applications will be processed in the order (date & time) that they are received by the OHCD.  For additional information or an application, please call Garrett at 959-4642.

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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 4, 5 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).

12. Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission: One vacancy (Council District 3).

 

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.

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Hisaoka Gym Repairs Update

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:

 

The bid package for Phase I (structural repairs and ceiling demolition) is being finalized in-house and we are anticipating public bid advertisement in mid-July with a bid opening of mid-August (the specific dates yet to be determined).  Preparation of plans and specifications for Phase II (architectural work – ceilings, finishes, etc.) is ongoing.

 

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.

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Recycling Drop-offs - Update

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, #2 & #5   (milk jugs, detergent bottles, yogurt cups, 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.

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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&#2 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.**

 

Atlas Recycling LLC operates Mobile Redemption Sites (monthly 9 am- 1pm) at:

• Ocean View (South Point U-Cart) every 2^nd Saturday and
• Na`alehu Elem. & Inter. School every 3^rd Saturday.

For further information about Atlas Recycling’s operations on the island of Hawai`i, call 935-9328 (Hilo) or 329-6868 (Kona).

 

Reynolds Recycling at 1260 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo also participates in the HI5¢ program:  Tues-Saturday 9am-5pm.  For further information, call 754-8984.

 

Certified redemption centers are now accepting flattened aluminum and plastic HI5¢ beverage containers.  

 

Flattened containers are weighed at redemption sites to determine deposit payment.  The public is reminded that reverse vending machines will not accept flattened or crushed containers.

 

DID YOU KNOW….that the Department of Environmental Management has an information line?  Call 961-5044 for HI5¢ redemption, recycling, and other solid waste information.  Or visit:

www.hi5deposit.com / http://co.hawaii.hi.us/directory/dir_envmng.htm

 

****Check out this new Recycle Hawaii website page for "special event" disposal bins for recyclable beverage containers:

 http://recyclehawaii.org/HI5PurchaseRentBin.htm

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Kuakini Highway Construction Update

Construction work to widen Kuakini Highway, from Palani Road to Hualalai Road, commenced on November 8, 2004.

 

Kuakini Highway will be widened to four lanes for automobiles, including two through-lanes in each direction, and a pocket lane for left turns where appropriate. In addition, there will bicycle lanes on both sides throughout most of the project.  The construction is anticipated to end during the third quarter of 2007.

 

One lane will be open at all times from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. while construction is in progress.  Outside of these hours, one lane in each direction will be open.

 

The contractor, Hawaiian Dredging, will work with the adjacent businesses and residences to assure that a reasonable access to the businesses and residences will be maintained throughout the construction period. However, motorists traveling in the area should drive with caution.

 

We are most grateful for the public’s patience and apologize for any inconvenience caused.

 

Here is the update for this week:

The Contractor is currently doing the following:

• Miscellaneous work to complete “punch list” items (outstanding items) is ongoing.

 

The Kuakini Highway improvement project has included widening the road from two to four lanes from Palani Road to Hualalai Road, building pocket lanes for left turns, adding bicycle lanes, sidewalks, curbs and gutters, retaining walls, and utility relocation.

 

The project is part of an action plan the County of Hawai`i is using to prioritize solutions to mitigate traffic congestion in Kona.  The action plan is based on a study the County commissioned in 2000, entitled Keahole to Honaunau Circulation Plan.

 

Information about this study and the Keahole to Honaunau circulation plan is available online at the County website at www.co.hawaii.hi.us  under Projects Update. For 24-hour information on road work, call 334-9559. For specifics about this project, contact Bruce McClure, Director, County Department of Public Works, 961-8321.

 

Information on project status will be also provided via this newsletter and the Mayor's West Hawai`i Office at 329-5226.

 

Mahalo nui loa for your support of these community improvement projects.

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Job Announcements

Hawai`i County … a nice place to live. County of Hawai`i … a great place to work.

 

Consider employment with the County of Hawai`i because it offers: numerous positions, great benefits, provides valuable services, diverse culture, a beautiful island – not to mention warm and friendly residents.

Call the County of Hawai`i’s job hotline (808) 961-8618 or visit www.co.hawaii.hi.us  to download an application packet.

For job postings, visit our website: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/civil_serv/civ_serv.htm

Click on employment opportunities to download all of the forms.

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COMMUNITIES IN ACTION

Hawaii HomeOwnership Center Offers Free Orientations

The Hawaii HomeOwnership Center is a non-profit organization that provides homebuyer education and counseling to help people prepare to buy a home.

 

Please come to a free orientation and see if our services can help you.  The upcoming orientations are:

 

Office of Housing & Community Development

1990 Kinoole Street, Suite 104, Hilo

• Friday, September 28, 6 pm

 

Please call to reserve a space: 1-877-523-9503 (toll free).

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Healthcare in West Hawai`i is Subject of Kona Town Meeting September 11

What can be done about West Hawai`i’s doctor shortage? How are West Hawai`i’s growing health needs going to be met in the next 10 years?

 

These are some of the questions to be discussed in the upcoming Kona Town Meeting on Tuesday, September 11 at 6 p.m. at the Makaeo Pavilion at the old Kona airport.

 

The featured speaker is Josh Green, State Representative and Chairman of House Health Committee.  Additional speakers are Council member Brenda Ford, Bruce Makarewicz, Director of the West Hawaii Community Health Center, Wally Lau of the Neighborhood Place and Wilbor Boyd of Curves Fitness.

 

Kona Town meetings are presented by Community Enterprises, a non-partisan, non-profit organization whose mission is to provide vital information on community concerns to Kona’s people.

 

Light refreshments will be served.  For more information contact Denny Coffman at 322-5076 or Fred Housel at 331-8602.

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Community Emergency Response Team Training in Puna Sept 1, 8, 15 & 22

The Puna community is invited to attend an upcoming series of Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training workshops in Pahoa on September 1, 8, 15 and 22.

 

These workshops are hosted by the Hawaii County Civil Defense, Fire Department and the Hawaii County Resource Center, a program of the Department of Research and Development.

 

CERT Training consists of four sessions in which participants will learn about emergency response procedures and understand their roles and functions in the event of a major emergency or natural disaster that affects their community.

 

WHEN AND WHERE:

• September 1, 8, 15, and 22nd at the Pahoa High and Intermediate School Cafeteria, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

 

The goal of CERT Training is for emergency personnel to train residents, community organizations or workplaces in basic response skills.  CERT members are trained to assess damage after a disaster, extinguish small fires, teach fire safety, perform basic rescue operations, provide first aid and organize procurement of supplies.

 

These hands-on workshops will be conducted by a certified CERT instructor of the Hawaii Fire Department.  Registration is limited to 25 participants. The program fee is sponsored by the County of Hawaii, which covers the workshops and CERT Training manual.

 

To register for the training workshops, please contact Frecia Basilio, Hawaii County Resource Center at 981-8344 or email fbasilio@co.hawaii.hi.us  .

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Mapping Hawai`i Communities Workshop: Intro to GIS and Community Analysis

A one-day workshop entitled Mapping Hawai`i Communities: An Introduction to GIS and Community Analysis will be offered at Honolulu Community College on both September 20 and September 21.

 

The target audience: Beginners, anyone interested in mapping their community.  Intermediate Excel skills required.

 

Participants will learn to use ArcGIS 9.2 to perform the following tasks:

• How to create thematic maps using your own data, and display spatial trends in information.
• How to do address mapping (geocoding).  Participants will learn to map addresses of their clients, their projects or incidents such as disease and crime.
• Download and map census & American Community Survey data.  Participants will learn to extract and map current census data such as statistics on poverty, race, language, population, transportation, education and workforce characteristics.

 

Participants will also learn to:

• Conduct spatial queries
• Download free shapefiles
• Create well-designed maps.

 

These mapping techniques are transferable to all other communities. Exercises are designed for beginners.

 

WHEN:           Thursday, Sept 20 / Friday, Sept 21 (One-Day Workshops.  Participants choose which one day to attend.)

WHERE:       Honolulu Community College, 874 Dillingham Blvd., Bldg 2, Room 505, Honolulu.

 

Materials

• Comprehensive workbook (75 pages), which includes the presentation, exercises and reference worksheets
• ArcGIS (ArcView 9.2) software 60-day trial CD set
• Thirty day free access to new 2005 Tiger/Line geography files (converted to shapefiles) which include streets, zip codes, school districts, voting districts, census tracts and many other useful geographies
• Thirty day free access to our Analyzing Your Community: Local Demographic Analysis Online Workshop

 

Registration fee: $399 (Credit cards, checks, purchase orders accepted.)

 

To register or learn more about this workshop, visit www.nur-online.com .

 

New Urban Research, Inc. is an ESRI business partner and national social research organization specializing in quantitative and spatial community analysis.  New Urban Research, Inc. 33232 NE 33rd Ave Portland, ORE 97212, 877-241-6576 or visit  www.nur-online.com .

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Hawai‘i Island Food Summit October 6 to Explore Food Security in Hawai`i

You are cordially invited to attend the Hawai`i Island Food Summit on Saturday, October 6 at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort.

 

The Big Island’s agricultural community will gather together to explore visions, ideas, and practical solutions to the question, “How can Hawai‘i feed itself?”  Food security in Hawai`i is the central theme of this event.

 

In collaboration with a diverse coalition of organizations, businesses, and government agencies, the Hawai‘i Island Food Summit will bring together national experts, local policy makers, farmers and food producers, educators, and supporting stakeholders to develop a shared vision for an ecologically-sound and locally self-sustaining agricultural system for Hawai‘i’s future.

 

Hawai‘i is the most isolated landmass in the world, yet we rely on imports for more than 90% of the food we consume.  Summit attendees will think through ways to restore our local food systems, thereby building a strong Island economy and contributing to community health. 

 

Topics to be discussed include:

• How County policies and planning can support the expansion of food production and family farms;
• How to create new opportunities to promote home production of food;
• How to expand educational opportunities in agriculture for keiki to kupuna; and
• How to help Island food producers successfully meet current market challenges.

 

The Hawai‘i Island Food Summit will include “Haumea’s Garden – A Local Food Exposition.”  This late afternoon exposition will feature locally sourced agricultural products and information, followed by an outdoor concert to benefit youth agricultural programs on Hawai‘i Island.  Performers at the evening concert include Keoki Kahumoku, Diana Aki and Herb Ohta Jr.

 

This unique set of events will support Island farmers, food producers, teachers, markets, and food distributors.

 

The Hawai‘i Island Food Summit is being organized by The Kohala Center and Hawaii SEED and is supported by the Hawai‘i County Dept. of Research and Development, members of the Hawai‘i County Council, Group 70 Foundation, Rocky Mountain Institute, the Kona County Farm Bureau, the Hawai’i Organic Farmers Association, the Pasifika Foundation Hawai’i, and the University of Hawai’i at Hilo.

 

Details and registration are available at www.kohalacenter/food.org  or you can call 887-6411 for more information.

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High Quality Mulch at Kealakehe Transfer Station -- Update

The County of Hawai’i has free mulch at the public pick-up area of the Kailua-Kona (Kealakehe) Transfer Station available 7 days a week from 6:30 am - 6:30 pm.  This mulch is being processed by EKO Systems and is a higher-quality product than previously available. 

 

To inquire about daily mulch availability at the Kealakehe site, please call 929-8200.

 

Bring a shovel to load your own vehicle or have EKO Systems operators