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September 14, 2007
Hawai`i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
FEATURE ARTICLE
· Driving with Aloha Means Practicing Pedestrian Safety
COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD
· 7th Annual Youth Action Summit in Hilo Wednesday September 19
· Spots Available with Big Island Group’s “Trash Tour” on Oahu October 1
· Fresh Produce Available for Certified Low-Income Seniors in West Hawai`i
· 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
· Water Restriction Notice in Effect from Paauilo Makai to Kukaiau Ranch
· County Seeks Environmental Commissioners for Vacancies in North, South Kona
· 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
· Recycling Drop-Offs -- Update
· Redemption Centers – Locations and Hours of Operation
COMMUNITIES IN ACTION
· West Hawai`i Fisheries Council Meets at Kealakehe High Library on September 20
· Hawai`i Home Ownership Center Offers Free Orientations
· Community Emergency Response Team Training in Puna September 1, 8, 15 & 22
· September ReefTalk on NELHA’s Innovative Work Sept 25 in Waimea
· 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
· Carousel of Care Caregiving Event on Saturday, Nov 17 in Keauhou
· High-Quality Mulch Available at Kealakehe Transfer Station -- Update
· Check Out our County’s Community Development Plan Website
TRAFFIC ALERT
· Work Begins on La`i`opua Connector Road from September 24
· County Constructs Second Public Parking Lot in Kainaliu
· County to Clear Post-Quake Debris from Old Laupahoehoe Road
FEATURE ARTICLES
Driving with Aloha Means Practicing Pedestrian Safety
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.)
Fall means “back to school”, the Big Island’s annual Ironman Triathlon World Championship and the return of our “snow birds” (retirees fleeing cold winter climates on the Mainland).
These three converging events mean more pedestrians (keiki and adults), sports enthusiasts (runners and cyclists), and more vehicles and traffic on our roadways.
With more people on foot at this time of year, we ALL need to heighten our awareness of road safety and practice safety habits as we’re out and about.
Grim statistics on pedestrian deaths, injuries
An average of 33 Hawaii resident pedestrians were killed each year from 2002-2006 in our state. This includes pedestrians struck in driveways and parking lots as well as on roadways. Hawaii had the 7th highest pedestrian fatality rate in the United States in 2005.
Our pedestrian fatality rate was a dramatic 24% higher than that for the rest of the country. Accidents involving pedestrians were the 7th leading cause of injury-related deaths in Hawaii, and the 8th leading cause of non-fatal injury-related hospitalizations.
For every pedestrian that is killed in Hawaii, approximately 6 are hospitalized, and another 12 are treated in emergency rooms for non-fatal injuries each year.
Senior pedestrians are particularly prone to accidents
Almost half (48%) of the fatally injured pedestrians were 65 years or older, and fatality rates increased dramatically for older age ranges. Highest rates for non-fatal injuries were found in keiki under 15 years of age, followed by seniors. Although most of the victims were struck on Oahu (73%), Hawai`i Island and the other Neighbor Islands have had their share of pedestrian injuries and fatalities.
In the five-year period from 1997-2001, 165 people were struck and killed on Oahu, 42 on Hawai`i island, 22 on Maui, and 4 on Kauai.
Early morning, evening are peak time periods for pedestrian accidents
About half (43%) of these fatal crashes occur during two peak time periods: 5:30-7:30 a.m. and 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Eighty-one percent of those hit during the morning were seniors. Alcohol was involved in about one-fifth of the deaths, as 14% of the pedestrians were estimated to have been drinking prior to the crash and another 7% were hit by a driver who had been drinking. This does not include the crashes that occur with unknown alcohol status of drivers or pedestrians.
Over half (53%) of the pedestrians who were killed were not in a crosswalk which most commonly means “jaywalking” or improper crossing of the road. Forty-six percent or about half of the drivers involved made a contributing error, such as being inattentive, or failing to yield the right of way.
We can use and share our roads more safely
Driver Safety Tips:
· Stay alert for sudden pedestrian movement in your car’s direction.
· Remember that pedestrians crossing multi-lane streets may be hidden from your view until they cross right in front of you.
· Be extra vigilant when it’s dark outside (dawn and dusk), as most pedestrian fatalities occur at these times.
· Slow down – don’t be in such a rush. Allow ample travel time and drive as if you live on an island.
· Never, never, ever drink and drive.
Pedestrian Safety Tips:
· Use crosswalks and look for oncoming vehicles before crossing the street.
· Continue looking in both directions while crossing the street.
· Remember that oncoming vehicles may approach faster than anticipated. Watch out for cars backing out of driveways.
· Make sure that you can be seen. Wear light colored clothing or reflective material when it’s dark outside.
· These tips also apply to runners and cyclists.
Whether you walk, run, cycle, or drive, stay alert to stay safe on our roads, especially during these times of increased road construction and increased activity on Hawaii Island. Let’s all kokua: keep an eye out for each other, practice safety and share the road. It’s what living in Hawaii and the Aloha spirit is all about.
COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD
7th Annual Youth Action Summit in Hilo Wednesday September 19
The 7th 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.
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.
Fresh Produce Available for Certified Low-income Seniors in West Hawai`i
The County’s Office of Aging, Nutrition Program and Coordinated Services are again teaming up with the Hawai`i Food Bank to distribute locally-grown fresh fruit and vegetables to low-income seniors at sites throughout West Hawaii for 10 weeks starting September 17, 2007 and ending in November
Low-income seniors are defined as individuals who are at least 60 years old and having household incomes of 185 percent of the federal poverty income guidelines, which for Hawai`i means $21,738 for an individual and $29,139 for a couple.
Program participants must be certified applicants to receive the fresh produce.
Applications, re-certifications and information about this program can be obtained by calling the Office of Aging at 961-8600 or 327-3597.
This program is funded by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, Office of Community Services, which recently awarded the Food Basket Inc. (Hawaii Food Bank) a $547,877 grant award to provide low-income seniors with fresh produce.
The Food Basket is a program of the Office for Social Ministry of the Roman Catholic Church in Hawai`i and is a Hawai`i Island United Way agency.
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 .
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 .
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.
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 |
Hilo Baseyard |
4 |
Glasscrete pad, (completed 9/7/07) |
Keauhou Transfer Station |
7 |
Gate repair work to begin 9/17/07 |
Laupahoehoe Transfer Station |
1 |
Tree removal,safety issues (completed 8/6/07) |
Papa`ikou Transfer Station |
1 |
Tree removal,safety issues (completed 9/6/07 |
Honoka`a Transfer Station |
1 |
Install access ramps, (completed 9/7/07) |
Papa`ikou Transfer Station |
1 |
Install access ramps, (completed 9/7/07) |
Puako Transfer Station |
9 |
Install access ramps, work to begin 10/5/07 |
For further information, please contact Terin Gloor, Solid Waste Civil Engineer at 961-8058.
Water Restriction Notice in Effect from Paauilo Makai to Kukaiau Ranch
Paauilo Makai to Kukaiau Ranch Department of Water Supply customers are now under Water Restriction due to a breakdown of the Paauilo Well pump. This breakdown has caused very low water levels in the Paauilo Tank. This tank is now being replenished by hauled water from backup sources until repairs are complete. With full cooperation, residents in these areas can be supplied with water during this emergency, which is currently estimated to last three (3) weeks.
Water Restriction calls for a mandatory 25% reduction in water use. 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: 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 water use for dust control. Use water wisely.
For more information, please contact Daryl Ikeda at 961-8790.
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.
County Seeks Environmental Commissioners for Vacancies in North, South Kona
The County of Hawai`i is seeking civic-minded applicants to fill vacancies to represent North Kona and South Kona on the County’s Environmental Commission. 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 new Environmental Management Commission members would begin their terms in January 1, 2008.
The following commissions currently have vacancies:
· District 7: South Kona (portions of Honaunau, Capt. Cook, Kealakekua), and North Kona (Kainaliu, Keauhou, Kahaluu, Holualoa)
· District 8: North Kona (Kailua-Kona, Kealakehe, Kalaoa, Puuanahulu).
·
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 .
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 .
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 .
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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 repairs were put out to bid as scheduled and at bid opening, no one bid on Phase 1 (structural repairs and ceiling demolition) which was to have made the gym structurally sound for the rest of the work that had to be done. Parks and Recreation is asking the architectural firm that has been doing Phase I and 2 to complete Phase 2 (architectural work – ceilings, finishes, etc) so the whole project can be packaged.
The hope is that by packaging the project that Parks and Recreation will get a bid.
In the meantime, the small but serviceable gym in Hawi is available for public use.
For further information, please contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at 961-8311.
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.
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 |
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Hilo Transfer Station** |
Daily 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
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Honoka`a Transfer Station (Weekends only)
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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 |
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Sun Closed |
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Kea’au Transfer Station** |
M, W, F: 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
(Closed Tues & Thurs) |
Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30pm |
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Kealakehe Transfer Station** |
M, W, F: 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
(Closed Tues & Thurs) |
Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30pm |
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Keauhou Transfer Station** |
Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
(Weekends only) |
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Pahoa Transfer Station** |
Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
(Weekends only) |
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Puako Transfer Station** |
Sunday only 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
(Open Sunday only) |
(closed for lunch 1:00-1:30) |
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Waimea Transfer Station** |
M, W, F: 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
(Closed Tues & Thurs) |
Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30pm |
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Waiohinu Transfer Station** |
Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
(Weekends only) |
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Atlas Recycling LLC operates Mobile Redemption Sites (monthly 9 am- 1pm) at:
- Ocean View (South Point U-Cart) every 2nd Saturday and
- Na`alehu Elem. & Inter. School every 3rd 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
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.
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.
COMMUNITIES IN ACTION
West Hawaii Fisheries Council Meets at Kealakehe High Library on Sept 20
The West Hawai`i Fisheries Council, a community-based advisory organization, will hold their regular monthly meeting on Thursday, September 20, 2007, from 6:30pm to 8:30 pm at the Kealakehe High School Library in Kailua- Kona. This is a change in meeting place which will be in effect for the September and October 2007 meetings.
The West Hawai`i Fisheries Council is seeking new members for the Council this fall. Applications can be picked up at the Division of Aquatic Resources office at Honokohau Harbor in Kona or by contacting Marni Herkes or a member of the council.
All of the interested ocean community is cordially invited to attend the Council meetings on the third Thursday of every month or to join one of the committees of the Council.
The mission of the West Hawai`i Fisheries Council is to manage fishery activities to ensure sustainability, enhance nearshore resources, minimize resource depletion and manage conflicts of use. The Council was set up under Act 306 by the Hawaii State Legislature to serve as the community source for formulating and recommending west Hawai`i fisheries management actions and changes to Department of Land and Natural Resource’s Division of Aquatic Resources.
For more information, please contact Marni Herkes at 987 2171 or marnih@hawaiiantel.net .
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).
Community Emergency Response Team Training in Puna Sept 15 & 22
The Puna community is invited to attend an upcoming series of Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training workshops in Pahoa on September 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 15 and 22nd at the Pahoa High and Intermediate School Cafeteria, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. (Previous sessions were held on September 1 and 8.)
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 .
September ReefTalk on NELHA’s Innovative Work Sept 25 in Waimea
Wonder what really goes on at the former OTEC facility? Jan War, Operations Manager at the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority (NELHA) will outline NELHA's fantastic ocean technology odyssey from its beginning to today.
In a talk entitled "Warm and Cold Seawater Applications at the Natural Energy.Laboratory of Hawaii Authority, he will explain the innovative applications of cold sea water for aquaculture, cooling spaces, water bottling and deep sea creatures never seen before will be discussed by Mr. War using colorful photos.
WHEN: Tuesday, September 25, 2007 6:30-8:30 pm.
WHERE: Thelma Parker Memorial Library (Waimea)
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