FEATURE ARTICLE

·         County of Hawai`i’s Affordable Rental Housing Program

COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

·         Community Meeting in Pahoa Oct 23 to Discuss Paving of Honolulu Landing

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

·         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

·         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

·         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

·         Healing Our Island Community Fund Mini-Grants Available

·         Hawai`i Home Ownership Center Offers Free Orientations

·         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

·         South Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor Improvement Project – Meeting in Waimea October 24

·         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

·         Kailua-Kona Community Christmas Parade Saturday, December 15

·         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

WE VALUE YOUR FEEDBACK

TO ADD OR REMOVE YOUR NAME

FOR MORE INFORMATION

---

FEATURE ARTICLES

County of Hawai`i’s Affordable Rental Housing Program

 The County of Hawaii has initiated a new program called the Affordable Rental Housing Program.  This program provides a property tax incentive to owners who rent their units at or below the affordable rental rate.

 

To qualify for benefits under this program for the tax year that begins on July 1, 2008, an application must be filed with the Real Property Tax Division no later than December 31, 2007.  A signed rental agreement (must be 6 months or longer) or other proof of rental charges must be submitted with the application.

 

For 2008, the Affordable Rental Housing Rates are as follows:

 

Studio	One Bedroom	Two Bedrooms	Three Bedrooms	Four Bedrooms	Five Or More Bedrooms
$555	$642	$748	$1,016	$1,113	$1,280

 

Below are rental rate exceptions for the following Zip Codes:  96719, 96725, 96738, 96739, 96740, 96743, 96745, and 96755:

 

Studio	One Bedroom	Two Bedrooms	Three Bedrooms	Four Bedrooms	Five Or More Bedrooms
$611	$732	$822	$1,160	$1,272	$1,462

 

Please submit your completed application form with supporting documentation to:

 

Real Property Tax Division at 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 4, Hilo, HI 96720 at 961-8201 or fax: 961-8415.  Or to Real Property Tax Division at 75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Suite 112, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 at 327-3540 or fax: 327-3578.

 

Application forms and informational material are available at the Real Property Tax Division offices in Hilo and Kona, or at website www.hawaiipropertytax.com.

 

REMEMBER:  To participate in this program for the 2008 tax year, you must file your application on or before December 31, 2007.

 

Qualifications:

Residential rent at or below the designated rates for the entire calendar year.

 

General information/requirements to participate:

• An application, RP Form 19-53(h) must be filed annually to the Real Property Tax Division no later than December 31 preceding the tax year for which the classification is claimed.
• A separate application for each unit must be filed and all units must meet the affordable rental housing rate requirements.
• The owner shall submit proof of the monthly rent with a document such as the rental agreement signed by the renter.
• All owners or representative with an authorized document such as a power of attorney must sign the application.

 

What are the benefits for participating in this program?

• The property will be classified in the homeowner land classification if it meets the provisions of this land category including being the owner’s principal residence and the rental unit(s) meet the affordable rental housing rate requirements.
  • The year after being classified in the homeowner class category, the assessed value will not increase by more than 3% if the owner continues to own and occupy the property as the principal residence and reapplies to remain in this program.
• The property will be classified in the affordable rental housing classification if the rental or all rentals meet the qualifications of this program.
  • The year after being classified as affordable rental housing, the assessed value will not increase by more than 3% if the owner continues to own the property and reapplies to remain in the program.
  • While not guaranteed, it is anticipated that the tax rate for this land classification will be less than the next higher classification.

 

Breach Conditions:

• The rental of any unit during the calendar year exceeds the affordable rental rate.
• The ownership of the parcel changes and the transfer is subject to the conveyance tax under the terms of Chapter 247, Hawai‘i Revised Statutes.

 

Retroactive taxes

• Breach of the classification shall cancel the tax assessment retroactive to the date of the classification, but not for more than two years plus the current year.
• When a breach occurs, the retroactive taxes will be the difference between the amount of taxes paid and taxes that would have been due from the assessment in the higher classification in addition to a ten percent penalty.

 

For further information on the Affordable Rental Housing Program, please call the Real Property Tax Division at 961-8201.

(go to Contents)

---

COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

Community Meeting in Pahoa Oct 23 to Discuss Paving of Honolulu Landing

The Department of Public Works will hold a community meeting at the Pahoa Community Center on Tuesday, October 23 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. to discuss whether or not to pave Honolulu Landing.  A professional facilitator will oversee the meeting.

 

Honolulu Landing is considered a Road in Limbo.  Roads in Limbo were built or planned by the State or the Territorial government.  They are classified into either existing or paper roads.

 

For decades the State and County government argued over maintenance responsibility because of limited recourses.  Typically, existing roads are referred to as “government roads” or “homestead roads.”  The County has now accepted responsibility for maintaining 122.6 miles existing Roads in Limbo.  To learn more about the County’s Roads in Limbo program and download a fact sheet on the issue, please go to www.co.hawaii.hi.us  and type roads in limbo in the search box.

 

Please note that only those property owners along Honolulu Landing will be part of the discussion.  Property owners should bring their last real property tax notice receipt as proof of ownership.  Non-property owners are welcome to attend, however discussion will be limited to property owners.

 

For more information on this and other County road projects, please contact Department of Public Works at 961-8321 between 7:45 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

(go to Contents)

---

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.

(go to Contents)

---

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.

(go to Contents)

---

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 .

(go to Contents)

---

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 .

(go to Contents)

---

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.

(go to Contents)

---

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  .

(go to Contents)

---

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  .

(go to Contents)

---

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 . 

(go to Contents)

---

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.

(go to Contents)

---

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.

(go to Contents)

---

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.

(go to Contents)

---

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 has been postponed to Thursday November 15, 2007 in order for Parks and Recreation to get a hazardous materials assessment in response to inquiries from potential bidders.  Phase II preliminary plans are currently under review.  (Phase II entails restoration work, while Phase I entails demolition and structural repair work.)

 

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.

(go to Contents)

---

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.

(go to Contents)

---

Redemption Centers – Hours of Operation

The following is a primer on the State of Hawai`i's beverage container redemption program works, and the location of the County of Hawai’i’s beverage container redemption sites:

 

Qualifying Beverage Containers:

What’s IN:  Eligible (redeemable) beverage containers include:  soft drinks, soda, water, juice, tea and coffee drinks, and low alcohol content drinks (beer, malt beverages, wine coolers, mixed spirits) in metal, glass or #1&#2 plastic, 64 oz. or less.

 

What’s OUT:  Ineligible (unredeemable) containers include:  milk, wine and liquor containers.

Reminder:  ONLY eligible HI5¢ labeled containers can be redeemed.

 

Qualified beverage containers may be redeemed for cash at the following locations:

**Transfer Station centers closed daily from 1:00-1:30pm for lunch.**

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 http://recyclehawaii.org/HI5PurchaseRentBin.htm

(go to Contents)

---

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 fourth 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.

(go to Contents)

---

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.

(go to Contents)

---

COMMUNITIES IN ACTION

Healing Our Island Community Fund Mini-grants Available

Do you have an idea or an initiative for a drug prevention and education activity that will help your community?  Do you know of others willing to collaborate and conduct anti-drug activities with a focus on youth, family and neighborhood?  Mini-grants are now available for initiatives like these.

 

The Healing Our Island Community Fund is a grant-in-aid to the County of Hawai`i from the Hawai`i State Legislature aimed at inspiring and encouraging grassroots community involvement to plan and implement services, programs and events in the fight against drug abuse.

 

Funds for this program are intended to fund projects of Hawai`i Island’s community-based grassroots organizations and non-501(c)(3)s that traditionally do not have access to grant funds.  The grants are not to exceed $2,000.00 and applicants are encouraged to collaborate and cooperate with others in their own communities and with other communities.  This program has been successful in all districts across the island over the past two years.

 

More than 281 community mini-grants have been awarded since the inception of this program.  This funding has enabled communities to connect and work in a united front to address substance abuse issues.

 

Each district on Hawai`i Island has a district liaison available to assist groups with their grant proposals and to help and encourage groups to connect with potential collaborative partners in their communities.  Grant requests are evaluated monthly and are due by the 10th of each month.  Funds are limited so preference will be given to first-time Healing Our Island applicants.

 

The Healing Our Island 2007-2008 Community Grant Fund information and application packet is available at www.hcrc.info  or for pick up at the Hawaii County Resource Center in Hilo at the Puainako Town Center at 2100 Kanoelehua Avenue, Bay C-5 (Puna side-end unit) or in Kona at the Lanihau Professional Center at 75-5591 Palani Road, Suite 2001 (next to Frame Ten Center-Kona Bowl).

 

For more information, please call Laverne Omori at 327-3665 or contact the liaison for your district:

• N/S Kohala:  Carolyn Lancaster     987-3395       carolyn96755@yahoo.com
• N/S Kona:      Christine Light           987-4510       paikona@yahoo.com
• Ka’u:               Teresa Alderdyce     937-7919       aldert@juno.com
• Puna:              Barbara Lively           640-9428       blively77@yahoo.com
• N/S Hilo:         Susan Labrenz          966-8450       JA-susan@hawaii.rr.com

(go to Contents)

---

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 at:

Office of Housing & Community Development

1990 Kinoole Street, Suite 104, Hilo

• Friday, October 19, 6 pm

 

Mayor’s West Hawai`i Office

75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Suite 103, Kona, Hi

• Friday, October 26, 6 pm

 

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

(go to Contents)

---

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

Come join us for a fun and spooky evening in Wailea Village, Hakalau at Akiko's B&B for a local style Halloween featuring three “Obake" story tellers on one dark night on Saturday, October 20 from 7-8:30 p.m.

 

WHERE:       Motonaga Garage Gallery at Akiko’s B&B, Wailea Village (mauka off Highway 19 at the 16-mile marker)

WHEN:          Saturday, October 20 from 7:00-8:30 p.m.

 

Three of Hawaii’s scariest storytellers will be calling forth the spirits in what promises to be a VERY spooky evening. ‘Tita’ Kathy Collins, Alton Chung and Jeff Gere promise to give you chicken skin, make your hair stand on end.  You get da idea.

 

Park at the Hakalau Baseball park and walk 3 minutes into the village. Admission for adults: $10, $8 children under 12. For reservations call Akiko at 963-6422 or email: msakiko@hawaii.rr.com .

(go to Contents)

---

Hawaiian Culture and Traditions – Free Lecture by Archaeologist Kathy Kawelu

Hawaiian archaeologist Kathy Kawelu will give a presentation on the intriguing subject “A Sociopolitical History of Hawaiian Archaeology” on Monday, October 22 from 12:00-1:30 p.m. at the University of Hawai‘I at Hilo.

The free lecture is part of the new Puana Ka ‘Ike Lecture Series sponsored by Bishop Holdings Corporation/Kamehameha Investment Corporation and the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo Kipuka Native Hawaiian Student Center.

 

Kawelu, a Hilo native, is a 1990 Kamehameha Schools graduate who recently received a doctoral degree in Pacific archaeology.  Her talk focuses on the contemporary issues of archaeology in Hawai‘i, taking into account the development of anthropology as a discipline in the islands.

 

The dynamic Puana Ka ‘Ike (Imparting Knowledge) Series covers a d