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Hawai`i County Weekly News

September 28, 2007

Hawai`i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer


CONTENTS

FEATURE ARTICLE

·         Hawai`i County Committee on the Status of Women Announces 2007 Awardees

COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

·         Prosecuting Attorney Offices Move Next to Future Hilo Courthouse

·         Hilo Bayfront Trails Phase I: Planning  -- Public Meeting Tuesday October 9

·         Tiger Birthday Celebration at Pana`ewa Zoo and Gardens Saturday, Oct. 6

·         Fresh Produce Available for Certified Low-Income Seniors Islandwide

·         Down Payment Assistance Loans Available to First-Time Home Buyers

·         Home Repair Loans Available for Hawaiian Home Lessees

·         Dept of Environmental Management Solid Waste Projects Update

·         Water Restriction Notice in Effect from Paauilo Makai to Kukaiau Ranch

·         Drought Information Update

·         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

·         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

·         Big Island Residents Can Help Shape Future at Hawai`i 2050 Meetings Oct 3 & 4

·         Hawai`i Home Ownership Center Offers Free Orientations

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

·         Flood Control Law Reform is Subject of October 9 Kona Town Meeting

·         Apply by Oct 12 for Julie M. Ellison Seasonal Tropical Gardening Scholarship

·         Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge Holds Annual Open House October 13

·         Housing Hawai`i Fall Conference Features HUD Secretary Jackson on Oct 17

·         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

·         Signs and Markings Projects

·         County to Mitigate Potential Rock Fall Area along Mamalahoa Hwy in South Kona

·         Work Underway on La`i`opua Connector Road in Kona

·         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 Committee on the Status of Women Announces 2007 Awardees

For the past four years the County of Hawai`i’s Committee on the Status of Women has sought nominations for the most outstanding women role models on Hawai`i.  This year six women will receive honors as the latest inductees into the Women’s Hall of Fame.

 

The Hawaii County Committee on the Status of Women proudly announces the six women who will be inducted into the 4th Annual Women’s Hall of Fame at a dinner reception on Saturday, October 6 at the Hilton Waikoloa Village Water’s Edge Ballroom.

 

Elizabeth Hultman-Salfen of Pahoa, Tracy Brennan of Kamuela, Helene Hale of Puna, Judith Kirkendall, Lyndell Lindsey of Hilo and Fumiko Ow of Kona will be honored.  These women were selected for their accomplishments as role models and mentors, for their Aloha spirit and strong moral code of ethics and for their success in advancing the status of women. 

 

The program will begin at 6 pm.  Former news anchor Jade Moon will emcee the event, with a special performance by Melveen Leed honoring the awardees.

 

Friends and family are encouraged to attend to honor these special women for their exemplary service to our community.  Price for the dinner is $55, inclusive of tax and tip. 

 

To reserve a seat, please call Jean Viernes at the Mayor’s Office by Tuesday, October 2 at 961-8211 for registration information.  A special room rate of $169 is being offered for event attendees.  Contact the hotel at 886-1234 for reservations. 

 

Brief bios of the six award-winning women:

 

·        Elizabeth “Liz” Hultman-Salfen of Pahoa is described as adaptable, encouraging and helpful.  In her 15 years as a Girl Scout Leader she has mentored and encouraged girls from learning to sew to pursuing their dreams particularly in the fields of math and science.  In the Nanawale Estates community she was instrumental in getting their park built, which now provides a safe place for residents to exercise, walk and play.  No project is too big for Liz to give it her all.

 

·        Tracy A. M. Brennan – The second female hired by the Hawaii County Fire Department has excelled as a firefighter and provider of emergency medical services all over the island.  She is currently a paramedic in the County’s Aero medical helicopter and is a member of the County’s Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Team.  Off-duty, she shares her skills as a Citizens Emergency Response Team (CERT)  trainer, lifeguard and CPR instructor.  Tracy is a positive role model and mentor for young women who seek to raise the standard of opportunities for women. 

 

·        Helene Hale – Politician, businesswoman, teacher and champion of equality and tolerance.  Ms. Hale began her political career in 1954 when she was first elected to the Hawaii County Board of Supervisors.  She served 10 years, 2 of which were as Board chair.  She was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention in 1978, served 10 years on the County Council and 6 years in the State House of Representatives.  Her business interests included real estate, a bookstore and coffee farm.  She has been active in numerous organizations and has accomplishments too numerous to mention.   She has brought kindness and understanding to every undertaking.

 

·        Judith Kirkendall of Hilo is described as a go-getter and doer.  She is known for her warm and welcoming manner and has been instrumental in setting up several clubs and programs that continue to help and serve our community.  She was Dean of Continuing Education at the University of Hawaii-Hilo and has been active in the Stroke Club, PALS Program (Performing Arts Lengthening Strides) Lyman Museum, Hilo Art Museum and East Hawaii Cultural Center.  She has and continues to make a positive difference for so many people.

 

·        Lyndell Lindsey of Hilo, owner and principal of a pre- and elementary school, choir director, accomplished athlete, coach, and co-director of the longest running statewide volleyball tournament, Lyndell is a role model for all women to emulate.  Whether at work, in church, or on the volleyball court she motivates people with her exuberance, patience and cheerful demeanor.  She is always willing to put in extra time to help rookies learn volleyball, and helps players improve both on and off the court.

 

·        Fumiko Teshima Ow of Kona is a loving role model for the patrons of venerable Teshima’s Restaurant in Honalo in Kona.  She is always gracious and accommodating, and has worked long hours to meet the needs of the customers.  Fumi was instrumental in forming a cancer survivor support group. and most recently was again the top fundraiser for the Amercan Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. She is an unsung heroine of her community.

 

For more information, please call Jean Viernes at the Mayor’s Office at 961-8211.

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COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

Office of the Prosecuting Attorney Moves Next to Future Courthouse

The Office of the Prosecuting Attorney has moved to the County office complex at Aupuni Center, at 655 Kilauea Avenue, effective September 4.

 

The former location was at 34 Rainbow Drive.  The phone numbers will remain the same, with 961-0466 the office’s main number.

 

The new location puts the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney next door to the future Hilo Judiciary Complex, which is slated for completion in late 2007.

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Hilo Bayfront Trails Phase I: Planning -- Public Meeting Tuesday October 9

The County of Hawai`i has initiated a planning process for a comprehensive system of connected trails and parks along the Hilo Bayfront and seeks your input on conceptual plans at the first of three open public meetings:

 

WHEN:          Tuesday, October 9, 2007, 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm

WHERE         Aunty Sally’s Luau Hale, 799 Piilani Street, Hilo

 

Registration begins at 4:00 pm

 

The project planning team, led by Helber Hastert & Fee, Planners, will present what has been discovered through site visits and consultation with various agencies and the general public.

 

This is the community’s opportunity to provide comments and ideas for further refinement and development in this planning process.  Technical staffers from various County and State agencies are also being invited to offer input on the project and to assist in responding to project-related concerns or questions that may arise during the meeting.

 

The County of Hawai`i is committed to providing access to our activities without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, or disability. Please contact Beth Dykstra in the Department of Research and Development at 981-8334 or edykstra@co.hawaii.hi.us  to request reasonable accommodation.  To obtain a sign language interpreter or materials in an alternate format in time for the meeting, please submit your request five working days prior to the meeting.

 

If you cannot attend this meeting but would like to be notified about the second and third meetings, please contact public outreach manager Alice Moon & Company at (808) 933-9772.

 

For additional project information, please contact Robyn Sweesy, Project Manager, Helber Hastert & Fee, Planners, Inc., by e-mail at info@hhf.com  or at (808) 545-2055.

 

This project is funded by the County of Hawai`i and by a grant from the Hawai`i Tourism Authority.

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Tiger Birthday Celebration at the Zoo Saturday, October 6 – More Details

The zoo’s white Bengal tiger, Namaste, invites everyone to help him celebrate his 9th birthday on Saturday, October 6, 2007 at the Pana`ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens.

 

The life span for tigers is 18-24 years according to Dirk Arthur, Namaste’s donor in Las Vegas, so Namaste is now entering middle age in tiger years.

 

Namaste still gets frisky and catches birds in his enclosure now and then, and he plays like a kitten with catnip and in his pond.  And he loves his birthday parties.

 

This year’s celebration will include musical entertainment all day long.  The hourly shows start with  the Orchid Isle Youth Orchestra at 9 am, Serendipity Strings  at 10 am, the Hawai`i County Band at 11 am, the Waiakea High School Band at 12 noon, Arthur Davenport at 1 pm, the Dogwatch/Bagpipe Band and Lobo del Mar at 2 pm, and Java Jive at 3 pm.

 

There will be several food booths serving hotdogs, shave ice, Pizza Hut pizza, as well as Michael’s Hawaiian Foods plate lunches, and Island Flavors Espresso.  Free cake from KTA Superstores and Safeway and ice cream compliments of Meadow Gold Dairies will be served at 12 noon as long as supplies last.

 

At 9:30 am the birthday boy, Namaste, will receive a large ice cake with 9 beef bones donated by Kulana  Foods, Ltd. At 10:30 am, all of the birthday guests are invited to sing Happy Birthday as Namaste receives his birthday gift, a fat catnip mouse courtesy of Meowie Wowie.

 

At the entrance of the zoo, visitors can sign one of the big birthday cards for Namaste and take a photo with a life-sized plush white tiger at the Zoo Information Booth.  There will also be a Friends of the Zoo membership drive and gift basket drawing at the door and a general drawing for a tiger gift basket as well as a silent auction for several special items.

 

The Namaste’s Kids Club will be offering face painting near the Butterfly House.  At a special booth near the education building, the keiki will be able to make a craft project to take home and play the popular fishing game to win prizes.  The zoo gift shop will have a special tiger shop at the entrance to the gift shop.   They will be offering 10% discounts on all white tiger plush items for the day.

 

Terry the Tiger, Marc the Clown and Lani Moo will also be on hand to entertain the keiki.  Al Cabral and the Hawaii Horse Owners’ Association will assist visitors with parking.

 

The Petting Zoo will be open from 1:30 to 2:30 pm.  The gift basket drawings will be at 3:00 pm, and Namaste’s special birthday turkey dinner will be served at 3:30 pm.

 

This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Pana’ewa Zoo, a nonprofit corporation which supports and promotes the zoo. Funds raised at events contribute to the acquisition and care of zoo animals and improvements at the zoo.  The Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens hours are 9 am to 4 pm daily.  No admission is charged. For further information contact the Friends’ Zoo Gift Shop at 959-9233 or visit the website at www.hilozoo.com .

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Fresh Produce Available for Certified Low-income Seniors Islandwide

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 islandwide 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.

 

The distribution sites are as follows:

 

EAST HAWAI`I

Hawaii Island Adult Care      34 Rainbow Drive, Hilo        Mon 11:00 - 12:00

Kamana Elderly Housing     147 Kamana St, Hilo            Mon 1:00 – 2:00 pm

ILWU Hall       100 E. Lanikaula St, Hilo                             Mon 1:30 – 2:30 pm

Aunty Sally’s Luau Hale        799 Piilani St, Hilo                Tues 10:30 – 11:30

Pahala Nutrition/Sr. Center  96-1183 Holei St, Pahala    Wed 9:30 – 10:30

Naalehu Nutrition/Sr. Center            95-5635 Mamalahoa Hwy    Wed 10:00 – 11:00

Ocean View Nutrition Center(St Jude’s Church)               Wed 11:00 – 12:00 pm

Papaikou Community Center          Papaikou                   Thurs 9:30 – 10:30

Pepeekeo Community Center         28-2892 Alia St         Thurs 10:00 – 11:00

Papaaloa (Gym) Nutrition Center    35-1994 Gov’t. Rd    Thurs 10:00 – 11:00

Paauilo Nutrition Center       43-505 Paka Lp                    Thurs 10:30 – 11:30

Honokaa Nutrition Center    45-540 Koniaka Pl                Thurs 11:00 – 12:00

Keaau Nutrition Center         45-540 Koniaka Pl                Fri 9:30 – 10:30

Pahoa Community Center   Pahoa Rd                               Fri 10:00 – 11:00

WEST HAWAI`I

Holualoa Imin Center            76-5877 No.Kona Belt Rd               Mon 9:30 – 10:30

Hale Hookipa Elderly Housing        81-1038 Nani Kupuna St     Tues 9:30 – 10:30

Yano Hall        82-6148 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kealekekua                 Tues 10:00 – 10:30

Kona Adult Day Care           81-989 Haleikii St, Kealakekua      Tues 10:30 – 11:30

Kohala Nutrition Center        54-3900 Akoni Pule Hwy, Kapaau  Wed 9:00 – 10:00

Waimea YMCA         67-1199 Mamalahoa Hwy                            Wed 10:00 – 11:00

Waikoloa Community Church          68-3670 Paniolo Dr              Wed 11:30 – 12:30

St. Benedict’s Church           84-140 Painted Church Rd, Honaunau      Thurs 11:00–12:00

Hale Anuhea Housing           82-1040 Kiloa Rd, Kona                  Thurs 10:30 – 11:00

ILWU Office (Kona)   74-5565 Luhia St (Kaiwi Square)               Fri 10:30 – 11:30

 

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.

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Down Payment Assistance Loans Available to First-Time Home Buyers

The American Dream Down Payment Initiative (ADDI) Program is a deferred mortgage loan to low-income first-time home buyers on the Island of Hawai`i.

 

The program helps first-time home buyers with down payment assistance to purchase an existing dwelling unit to be used as their primary residence.  The minimum loan amount is $1,000 and the maximum may not exceed the greater of 6% of the purchase price of a single-family housing unit or $10,000.

 

All loans have a 0% interest rate and payments are deferred for 15 years.  The borrower will not be required to repay the ADDI loan if he/she remains as owner occupant for the Affordability Period of 15 years.

 

Leasehold property is not eligible.

 

For more information or an application call Dawnelle Forsythe at the Office of Housing and Community Development at 959-4642 or e-mail at ohcdeh@co.hawaii.hi.us ...  Application packets can also be found on-line at http://www.hawaii-county.com/directory/dir_housing.htm .

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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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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

Keauhou Transfer Station

7

Gate repair work anticipated completion 9/28/07

Puako Transfer Station

9

Install access ramps, work to begin 9/26/07

Kea`au Transfer Station

5

Construct Reuse Area bid opening 10/2/07

 

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

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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.

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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 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  .

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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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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 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 so the whole project can be packaged.

 

Parks and Recreation’s consultants have revised their plans to reflect various comments/questions received from potential bidders from the first bid process.  We just received the last revised plan sheet from our architect, and now we will be running new sets of plans and specifications for the re-bid.  Parks and Recreation planners will be working with the Department of Public Works to set a bid advertisement date. 

 

The bid advertisement is slated to be no later than Friday, October 5, 2007, and based on this anticipated date for advertisement, we will set the bid opening date for Thursday, October 25.

 

Parks and Recreation planners expect to receive the full set of Phase 2’s preliminary plans by September 21 for review and comment.  No date is projected yet for putting that project out to bid as it depends on the quality of the plans we receive and the quantity of comments it generates from us and the various agency’s reviews. Note: Phase 2 involves architectural work (ceilings, finishes, etc).

 

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.

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Recycling Drop-offs - Update

The following items are now accepted in the Mixed Recycling drop-off bins at the County Transfer Stations:

 

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)

·        Shredded paper

·        Phonebooks and paperbacks

 

NO wax-coated boxes or paper

NO food or oil contaminated materials

NO Styrofoam or plastic bags (#4 or #2)

 

Please note:  Materials taken to the Kealakehe, Hilo or the Kea‘au Transfer Stations can still be 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.**

CURRENTLY OPEN

DAYS/HOURS OF OPERATION

OPERATOR

 

 

 

Hawi Transfer Station**

Saturday only: 8 am-4:30 pm.

ARC of Hilo

(Open Saturday only)

(closed for lunch 1:00-1:30)

 

Hilo, 1260 Kilauea Ave. (Closed 12 noon-1:00 pm)

 

Tues-Sat  9am-5pm

Reynolds Recycling

Hilo, 30 Maka’ala Street

Mon thru Fri: 8:00am-5:00pm

Atlas Recycling

(Old industrial area)

Sat & Sun:    8:00am-3:00pm

 

 

 

 

Hilo Transfer Station**

Daily  8:00am-4:30pm

ARC of Hilo

 

 

 

Honoka`a Transfer Station

(Weekends only)

 

Sat & Sun   8:00am-4:30

ARC of Hilo

Kailua-Kona, Pawai Place

Mon thru Fri:  7:00am-4:00pm

Atlas Recycling

(Old industrial area)

Sat  8:00am-3:00pm

 

 

Sun Closed

 

 

 

 

Kea’au Transfer Station**

M, W, F:  8:00am-4:30pm

ARC of Hilo

(Closed Tues & Thurs)

Sat & Sun   8:00am-4:30pm

 

 

 

 

Kealakehe Transfer Station**

M, W, F:  8:00am-4:30pm

ARC of Hilo

(Closed Tues & Thurs)

Sat & Sun   8:00am-4:30pm

 

 

 

 

Keauhou Transfer Station**

Sat & Sun  8:00am-4:30pm

ARC of Hilo

(Weekends only)

 

 

 

 

 

Pahoa Transfer Station**

Sat & Sun  8:00am-4:30pm

ARC of Hilo

(Weekends only)

 

 

 

 

 

Puako Transfer Station**

Sunday only  8:00am-4:30pm

ARC of Hilo

(Open Sunday only)

(closed for lunch 1:00-1:30)

 

 

 

 

Waimea Transfer Station**

M, W, F:  8:00am-4:30pm

ARC of Hilo

(Closed Tues & Thurs)

Sat & Sun   8:00am-4:30pm

 

 

 

 

Waiohinu Transfer Station**

Sat & Sun  8:00am-4:30pm

ARC of Hilo

(Weekends only)

 

 

 

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

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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

Big Island Residents Can Help Shape Future at Hawai`i 2050 Meetings Oct 3 &4

What will the state of Hawai‘i be like in 2050?  What kind of jobs will our children and grand-children have?  Can they afford to live in our Islands?  How will we care for our lands and oceans?  Can we sustain the Aloha Spirit and our unique Island values for future generations?

 

The Hawai‘i 2050 Sustainability Task Force invites the public to help answer questions like these about the future of the state at a community meeting about t