FEATURE ARTICLE

·         Hawai`i County’s Police Cadet Program Now Underway

COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

·         Repairing County Streetlights and Spot the Dot Campaign in Time for Halloween

·         Honoka`a Sewer Smoke Testing & Survey from October 15

·         Ocean View Recycling Point and Convenience Center – Public Meeting October 18

·         Steering Committee of Puna CDP Meets Wednesday, October 17

·         Steering Committee of Puna CDP Meets Thursday, October 18

·         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

·         Cancellation of Water Restriction Notice 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

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

·         Homeownership Option Program Informational Meetings Oct 15, 17

·         Hearings, Request for Proposal for 2008 CDBG/HOME Programs

·         Pu`uanahulu Volunteer Fire Station Blessing Saturday, October 27

·         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

·         Kawaihae Local Resource Council Meeting Discusses Fish Farms October 14

·         Healing Our Island Community Fund Mini-Grants Available

·         Hawai`i Home Ownership Center Offers Free Orientations

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

·         Presentations by Dr. Jill Murray in Hilo, Kona on Relationship/Dating Abuse

·         Waikoloa Town Meeting to Discuss Wildfire Protection Plan October 19

·         Local Style Halloween Fun – Three Obake Storytellers in Hakalau Saturday, October 20

·         Hawaiian Culture and Traditions – Free Lecture by Archaeologist Kathy Kawelu

·         October ReefTalk on Deepwater Animals of Hawai`i on Tuesday, October 23

·         Presentation on ReefWatcher Monitoring by DLNR Aquatic Biologist October 25

·         Positive Coaching Alliance Workshop in Hilo Tuesday, October 30

·         Basic Facilitation Workshop – Training Opportunity for Community Members November 2

·         Community Emergency Response Team Training in Kona November 3, 10,13, 20 and 27

·         No Footprints in the Sand – A True Story from Kalaupapa to be Told Nov 10 in Hakalau

·         Concert to Benefit Preservation of Kahalu`u Bay Saturday, November 17

·         Carousel of Care Caregiving Event on Saturday, November 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

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

UPCOMING EVENTS

HAWAII COUNTY WEBSITE

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FEATURE ARTICLES

Hawai`i County’s Police Cadet Program Now Underway

The following information is courtesy of Chris Loos, Public Relations Specialist with the Hawai`i County Police Department.

 

The Hawaii Police Department's new Police Cadet Program officially began Thursday, October 4, with its first cadet class consisting of seven young men and two young women.  The cadet program is a Police Department project in partnership with the Department of Human Resources, Hawaii Community College, the University of Hawaii at Hilo and the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers.

 

What will the police cadets do?

 

During their three-year cadet program, they will observe and participate in many different facets of police work and acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to become a police recruit.

 

Will they have full police powers?

 

No.  They won't carry guns or have arrest powers, but in Phase II they will work with officers and detectives in a mentor program to learn police duties in patrol, records, dispatch, juvenile aid, criminal investigations and community policing.

 

How is this different from the regular police recruit program?

 

This cadet program is designed to appeal to recent high school students who are interested in becoming a police officer but aren't old enough to apply for the job.  The goal is to give the cadets the same training as police recruits get but at a slower pace.  That way, they can make a seamless transition into an abbreviated police recruit class when they reach age 21, the minimum age requirement for becoming a police officer.

 

Does someone have to be under 21 to apply for the cadet program?

 

No. It is also open to anyone else interested in pursuing a law enforcement career at a slower pace than the regular recruit class.

 

Won't entering the cadet class right out of high school prevent these young adults from going to college?

 

No. The Police Department encourages these cadets to attend college.  The cadets will have a chance to participate in the Police Department's Police Cadet Tuition Reimbursement Program for completing classes at the University of Hawaii at Hilo or Hawaii Community College.  The college experience will broaden their backgrounds, expand their academic skills and prepare them for future advancement in the Police Department.

 

Do the cadets get paid?

 

Yes. They are part-time permanent employees of the Police Department.  They will work three hours per week the first year and up to 19 hours per week the second and third years, earning $18.45 an hour.

 

How can someone apply for the next cadet class?

 

Open recruitment for the next cadet class is tentatively scheduled for January 2008.  For more information about applying, call the Department of Human Resources at 961-8361.

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COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

Repairing County Streetlights and Spot the Dot Campaign in Time for Halloween

The Department of Public Works is encouraging Hawai`i County residents to report malfunctioning street lights so they can be repaired in time for Halloween when trick-or-treating children and their families will be walking on the streets.

 

The Traffic Division of the County Department of Public Works manages 9,246 streetlights, each of which is operated by light-sensing cells.  Two things can happen with these lights, either bulbs can burn out and the light is off or the sensor can malfunction and the light remains lit all day.

 

Public Works needs your help locating these streetlights so they can be repaired.

 

If a streetlight in your neighborhood is lit all day or is not lit at night, please call the Traffic Division of Public Works on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 961-8341 with the following information:

 

·        The streetlight pole number.  It is easily spotted from a car.  It is a large silver number located six to seven feet up on the streetlight pole.

·        The street or highway name and a well-known landmark.

 

Please be aware that the average time from reporting a malfunctioning streetlight to its repair can be between two and three weeks.

 

The County will also be conducting its annual Spot the Dot for a Safer Halloween campaign.  The neon orange reflective dots, each of which is about an inch in diameter, greatly increase pedestrian visibility at night.  According to a national study, these Hot Dots have the ability to reflect car headlights from a distance of 500 feet.

 

The adhesive Hot Dots can be affixed to clothing or placed on smooth surfaces of bicycles, toys, or trick-or-treat containers.  They work best when attached to surfaces that move up or down or sideways, such as the back of shoes, the elbows of costumes or the pedals of bicycles.

 

The Hot Dots will be distributed for free to all elementary schools in Hawai`i County during the week of October 15th, 2007.

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Honoka`a Sewer Smoke Testing & Survey from October 15

Starting on Monday, October 15, 2007 Honoka`a sewer smoke testing and surveys will take place, taking approximately two days within the next three weeks.

 

The Department of Environmental Management’s wastewater line maintenance crews will be conducting a physical survey of the Honoka`a wastewater collection system, focusing on the Lehua Street section of town.  This study will involve the opening and entering of manholes in the streets and easements. 

 

An important task of the survey will be the “smoke testing” of sewer lines to locate properties that are connected to the sewer system, buildings connected to any injection wells, seepage pits or lava tubes, and any breaks or defects within the system.  The smoke that may be seen coming from the vent stacks on houses and buildings, or holes in the ground is non-toxic, harmless, has no odor, and creates no fire hazard.

 

The smoke should not enter homes unless defective plumbing or dried-up drain traps are present.  However, if this occurs, residents should contact a member of the smoke testing crew working in the area and they will check where and why the smoke has entered the home.  If there are any seldom-used drains, please pour water in the drain to fill the trap, which will prevent sewer gases or odors from entering the building.

 

The testing crew may also advise residents to consult a licensed plumber.  If the harmless smoke can enter homes through faulty plumbing, the potential exists for dangerous sewer gases to also enter homes and cause harm.

 

Some sewer lines and manholes are located in easements within private property.  If these lines require investigation, members of the inspection crews will need access to the easements for the sewer lines and manholes.  Property owners do not need to be present and the workmen will not need to enter your home or business to conduct the testing.

 

Photographs will be taken of smoke coming from vent pipes and leaks occurring in the system.  The information gained from this study will be used to improve future sewer services and may reduce the eventual cost to taxpayers.

 

For further information, please call the Wastewater Division at (808) 961-8338.

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Ocean View Recycling Point and Convenience Center – Public Meeting Oct 18

The Hawai‘i County Department of Environmental Management announces a public meeting concerning the Ocean View Recycling Point and Convenience Center project and draft environmental impact statement (EIS). The public meeting will be held on Thursday, October 18, 2007 from 6:00-8:00 pm at the Ocean View Community Center on Leilani Circle in Hawaiian Ocean View Estates.

 

The County’s consultant, Ron Terry of Geometrician Associates, will give a presentation on the contents and findings of the draft EIS that will be released on Monday, October 8, 2007. There will be time reserved for receiving input from the public. Comments will continue to be received until November 23, 2007.  An electronic version of the Draft EIS can be found at the Department’s web page at:

http://www.hawaii-county.com/directory/dir_envmng.htm .

 

There is a continuing need for a solid waste convenience center in the South Kona/Ocean View area.  The facility under discussion would be a transfer station (not a landfill) where residents would dispose of their household rubbish.  The facility would also allow periodic recycling and redemption of beverage container deposits.

 

Council Member Bob Jacobson is scheduled to attend, along with Department of Environmental Management Deputy Director Nelson Ho and consultant Ron Terry of Geometrician Associates. 

 

For further information, please contact Nelson Ho at 961-8083 or Ron Terry at 969-7090.

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Steering Committee of Puna Development Plan Meets Wed, October 17

The steering committee of the Puna Development Plan will meet on Wednesday, October 17 at 5:30 at the Kea`au Community Center.

 

Public testimony shall be limited to items on the agenda.  Oral public testimony will be taken at the beginning of the meeting and, at the discretion of the Committee, at the end of each agenda item.  Persons wishing to provide oral testimony must submit a completed request form to the Chair prior to the completion of each Public Testimony portion of the meeting.

 

The unfinished business items on the agenda will include:

·        Approval of amendments to the minutes for the September 20, 2007 Meeting

·        Suzanne H. Crowhurst Lennard Comments -- Continued discussion on observations and suggestions contained in the Lennard comments and possible recommendations to John Whalen for inclusion in the PCDP.

 

New business items will include:

·        Public Input Letters:  Hawaiian Acres Community Association:  Two letters dated September 13, 2007 to the PCDP Steering Committee via the Planning Department related to transportation recommendations contained in an independent plan submitted by David Fukumoto and the Preliminary Recommendations by the PCDP transportation sub-consultant, PB Americas, Inc. (Wayne Yoshioka).  Members to decide on possible follow-up action if necessary.

·        Growth Management Theme of the Draft Table of Goals, Objectives and Actions -- The Steering Committee will engage in a systematic discussion of the Growth Management Theme (land use) of the Draft Table and approve specific recommendations on the content to John Whalen.  Real-time track changes of the SC recommendations will be displayed and recorded.

 

NOTE: If you require an accommodation or auxiliary aid and/or services to participate in this meeting (i.e., sign language interpreter, large print, etc.) please call 961-8288, ext. 258.

 

If you are a lobbyist, you must register with the Hawai‘i County Clerk within five days of becoming a lobbyist. (Article 15, Section 2-91.3(b), Hawai‘i County Code).  A lobbyist means, “any individual engaged for pay or other consideration who spends more than five hours in any month or $275 in any six-month period for the purpose of attempting to influence legislative or administrative action by communicating or urging others to communicate with public officials.” (Article 15, Section 2-91.3(a)(6), Hawai‘i County Code).  Registration forms and expenditure report documents are available at the Office of the County Clerk-Council 333 Kilauea Avenue (Ben Franklin Building, 2nd Floor), Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720.

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Steering Committee of Puna Development Plan Meets Thursday Oct 18

The Puna Community Development Plan steering committee will be meeting on Thursday, October 18 at 5:30 at the Kea`au Community Center.

 

The agenda will include public testimony on agenda items.  Oral public testimony will be taken at the beginning of the meeting and, at the discretion of the Committee, at the end of each agenda item.  Persons wishing to provide oral testimony must submit a completed request form to the Chair prior to the completion of each Public Testimony portion of the meeting.

 

Among the unfinished business items will be:

·        Growth Management Theme of the Draft Table of Goals, Objectives and Actions.  If needed, additional time for the Steering Committee to complete their systematic discussion of the Growth Management Theme (land use) of the Draft Table and approve specific recommendations on the content to John Whalen.  Real-time track changes of the SC recommendations will be displayed and recorded.

·        Transportation Report:  The Steering Committee will continue discussion of the transportation report submitted by Wayne Yoshioka and approve recommendations for changes to the report.

 

NOTE: If you require an accommodation or auxiliary aid and/or services to participate in this meeting (i.e., sign language interpreter, large print, etc.) please call 961-8288, ext. 258.

 

If you are a lobbyist, you must register with the Hawai‘i County Clerk within five days of becoming a lobbyist. (Article 15, Section 2-91.3(b), Hawai‘i County Code).  A lobbyist means, “any individual engaged for pay or other consideration who spends more than five hours in any month or $275 in any six-month period for the purpose of attempting to influence legislative or administrative action by communicating or urging others to communicate with public officials.” (Article 15, Section 2-91.3(a)(6), Hawai‘i County Code).  Registration forms and expenditure report documents are available at the Office of the County Clerk-Council 333 Kilauea Avenue (Ben Franklin Building, 2nd Floor), Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720.

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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
Puako Transfer Station	9	Install access ramps, work completed 9/26/07
Kea`au Transfer Station	5	Construct Reuse Area award bid 10/9/07
Volcano Transfer Station	6	Install access ramps 10/12/07

 

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

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Cancellation of Water Restriction Notice from Paauilo Makai to Kukaiau Ranch

The emergency Water Restriction Notice, which was issued on September 10, 2007 for Department of Water Supply customers from Paauilo Makai to Kukaiau Ranch, has been lifted.  Paauilo Well pump repairs have been completed, and the water system is back to normal.

 

The Department of Water Supply would like to express its gratitude for the wonderful response to the emergency restriction notice, as the usage rate dropped immediately.  This provided an adequate supply to meet all the basic needs as the Well was being repaired.

 

For more information, please contact Daryl Ikeda at 961-8790.

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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).

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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 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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Hearings, Request for Proposal for 2008 CDBG/HOME Programs

The County of Hawai`i’s Office of Housing and Community Development (OHCD) is currently planning for its 2008 Consolidated/Action Plan process for the CDBG and HOME programs.

 

As required by federal regulations, the County will hold a series of public hearings and has selected the following locations and times in an effort to encourage comments and views from persons of very low and moderate income.

 

KA’U PUBLIC HEARING                                       PUNA PUBLIC HEARING

Date:   October 16, 2007                                         October 16, 2007

Time:   10:00 a.m.                                                     2:00 p.m.

Place:  Pahala Community Center                           Pahoa Community Center

KONA PUBLIC HEARING                                     HAMAKUA PUBLIC HEARING

Date:   October 17, 2007                                         October 17, 2007

Time:   10:00 a.m.                                                     3:00 p.m.

Place:  Hawai’i County Services                             Honokaa Gym/MPR Room

(Hanama Place)

HILO PUBLIC HEARING

Date:   October 18, 2007

Time:   10:00 a.m.

Place:  1990 Kinoole Street, Existing Housing Conference Room

 

The purpose of the public hearings is to hear views and comments from citizens on housing and community development needs and the past performance of the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD's) CDBG and HOME Program funds.

 

The County encourages its citizens, especially persons of low and moderate income, minorities and non-English speaking persons, as well as persons with disabilities, to attend the public hearings and share their comments and views.

 

Persons requiring special needs (i.e., sign language or bilingual interpreters) may call the OHCD at V/TT 961-8379 at least seven (7) days prior to the hearings so arrangements may be made to accommodate them.  Citizens who are unable to attend these hearings may submit or fax (808/961-8685) testimony pertaining to their housing and community development needs by October 18, 2007 to Edwin S. Taira, Housing Administrator, Office of Housing and Community Development, 50 Wailuku Drive, Hilo, Hawai`i 96720.

 

After the public hearing, OHCD staff will be available to discuss the procedures and guidelines for applying for the County’s 2008 CDBG and HOME programs.  OHCD staff will provide technical assistance to groups/agencies requesting assistance in developing proposals.

 

The County of Hawai`i’s Office of Housing and Community Development (OHCD) is seeking eligible project proposals to include in its 2008 Annual Action Plan to HUD.

 

The County’s five-year 2005-2009 CP describes the County’s housing and community development needs, funding plans, priorities and objectives, and includes the County’s Annual Action plan for the use of CDBG and HOME Program funds.

 

The County expects to receive approximately $2,500,000 for its CDBG Program and $1,000,000 for the HOME Program.

 

Project proposals submitted to the OHCD must comply with the program criteria, meet eligibility requirements, program objectives, and be consistent with the County’s priorities and objectives as contained in the County’s 2005-2009 CP.

 

All original project proposals and two (2) copies must be received by 4:30 p.m. on January 10, 2008, by the OHCD, 50 Wailuku Drive, Hilo, Hawai`i 96720-2456.

 

The proposal forms and federal guidelines covering the eligible activities will be available at the following locations beginning October 19, 2007, Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except on holidays.  Proposal forms will also be mailed, upon request, after October 19, 2007.

 

OFFICE OF HOUSING AND                                   HAWAI`I COUNTY SERVICES

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT                              Hanama Place

Hilo Armory                                                                75-5706 Kuakini Highway

50 Wailuku Drive                                                       Suite 103

Hilo, Hawai`i 96720                                                  Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740

Phone:  961-8379                                                     Phone:  329-5226

 

In addition, copies of the County’s current CP; Citizen Participation Plan and past performance of CDBG and HOME funds are also available at the Office of Housing and Community Development, 50 Wailuku Drive, Hilo, Hawai`i.

 

A brief description of the CDBG and HOME Programs area as follows:

 

Community Development Block Grant Program

 

Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (Public Law 93-383) created the CDBG Program, which became effective January 1, 1974.  Under the CDBG Program, a community is able to develop a flexible, locally-designed comprehensive community development strategy in order to address the program’s primary objective:  development of viable urban communities, by providing decent housing and suitable living environments and expanding economic opportunities principally for persons of low and moderate income.

 

Under the CDBG program, grants or loan assistance may be used by eligible public agencies, private non-profit organizations, and Community Based Development Organizations (CBDO), (non-profit organization) for the following activities provided that these activities either 1) principally benefit low and moderate income families, 2) aid in the prevention or elimination of slums and blight, or 3) meet other community development needs having a particular urgency.

 

Range of Eligible Activities for the use of CDBG Program Funds:

• Acquisition, disposition of real property, relocation payments, clearance
• Public facilities
• Public service
• Payment of non-federal share
• Homeownership (i.e. subsidized interest, mortgage guarantee, down payments, closing costs)
• Rehabilitation and preservation
• Economic development, micro enterprises
• Planning and administration.

 

HOME Program

 

The HOME Program was created under Title II (the HOME Investment Partnerships Act) of the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990.  The purpose of the HOME Program is to expand the supply of decent, safe, sanitary and affordable housing for very low and low-income persons.

 

Under the HOME Program, equity investments, interest-bearing and non-interest bearing loans or advances, deferred payment loans, grants, may be used by eligible public agencies, private non-profit organizations or other private organizations are eligible to utilize HOME funds for the following activities.

 

Range of Eligible Activities for the use of HOME Program Funds:

• Development hard costs defined as the actual cost of constructing or rehabilitating housing
• Acquisition costs
• Related soft costs defined as other reasonable and necessary costs incurred and associated with the financing or development (or both) of new construction, rehabilitation or acquisition of housing assisted with HOME funds
• Relocation costs
• Cost related to tenant-based rental assistance.

 

Applicants applying for HOME funding are required to match for every $1.00 of federal HOME funds expended for the project with at least $0.25 of eligible matching funds.

 

For more information, please contact the Office of Housing and Community Development at 961-8379.

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Pu`uanahulu Volunteer Fire Station Blessing Saturday Oct 27

A blessing ceremony of the Pu’uanahulu Volunteer Fire Station will be held on Saturday, October 27, 2007 at 11:00 a.m.  The public is welcome to attend.

 

With its official opening, the Pu’uanahulu Volunteer Fire Station becomes the 23rd volunteer station on the Island of Hawai`i.  It is located between the 20- and 21-mile marker on the makai side of the old Mamalahoa Highway.

 

Following the formal ceremony, light refreshments will be served.

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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 project was advertised in the October 5, 2007 edition of the Hawai‘i Tribune Herald and the West Hawai‘i Today.  Prospective bidders may pick up a set of plans and specifications through the Department of Public Works.  Bid opening is set for Thursday, October 25, 2007 at 2pm and bids will be received at the Department of Public Works’ Hilo AND Kona offices

 

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.**