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November 2, 2007
Hawai`i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
FEATURE ARTICLE
· Hawai`i Police Department Obtains Armored Vehicle Through Federal Grant
· Work Underway on La`i`opua Connector Road Providing Mauka-Makai Access in Kona
COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD
· County Transfer Stations – Holiday Closures
· Public Works Engineering Division Minimizes Cash Transactions
· 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
· Police Host Peer Support Training; All Interested Parties Invited
· County Accepting Applications for Elderly Housing in Pepe`ekeo
· Vacancies on the County’s Boards and Commissions
· Recycling Drop-Offs -- Update
· Redemption Centers – Locations and Hours of Operation
COMMUNITIES IN ACTION
· Healing Our Island Community Fund Mini-Grants Available
· Community Emergency Response Team Training in Kona November 3, 10,13, 20 and 27
· Police Officer of the Month to be Honored at Luncheon November 7
· No Footprints in the Sand – A True Story from Kalaupapa to be Told Nov 10 in Hakalau
· November Kona Town Meeting to Cover New West Hawai`i Community College
· Hawai`i Home Ownership Center – Free Orientations in Hilo and Kona
· Concert to Benefit Preservation of Kahalu`u Bay Saturday, November 17
· Carousel of Care Caregiving Event on Saturday, November 17 in Keauhou
· Christmas at Keauhou Bay Culinary Benefit Saturday, December 1
· 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
· Bridge Work on North Peck Road to Take Place on November 6
FEATURE ARTICLES
Hawai`i Police Department Obtains Armored Vehicle through Federal Grant
The following article was provided to the County newsletter by Chris Loos, public relations specialist with the Hawai`i Police Department.
The Hawaii Police Department was the first police department in the state to receive an armored vehicle from the Department of Homeland Security. The Police Department took possession of the "Bearcat" in July.
What is the purpose of the Bearcat?
It provides armored protection for officer safety in high-risk situations. It can respond to domestic terrorist events and can deploy bomb, hazmat and SWAT personnel to deal with chemical, biological and radiological events.
In addition to domestic terrorist events, it can be used for hostage or barricade situations, for serving high-risk search warrants and for responding to the scene of natural disasters. The Bearcat has equipment on board that can detect radiation and explosive gas.
Who will use the Bearcat?
The Police Department's Special Response Team will use the Bearcat.
What is the Special Response Team, and what does it do?
The Special Response Team or SRT is a special unit that was formed in 2000 and is similar to SWAT teams in other jurisdictions. The team also provides security for visiting dignitaries.
The SRT has two components: tactical officers and negotiators. Both receive special training to keep their skills sharp. All but two of the SRT members are assigned to other units for their primary police duties but remain on call for whenever Special Response Team is activated.
Does the Special Response Team use any other special vehicles?
Yes. It also has the Mobile Command Unit, which the Police Department received from the Department of Homeland Security in 2004. The Mobile Command Unit is equipped with electronics, radio equipment and a computer and can interface with other agencies during emergencies.
The SRT also uses a 4x4 van and an equipment truck. All four vehicles respond whenever SRT is activated.
How much did the two specialty vehicles cost? Where did the funds come from?
The Bearcat cost $240,000 and the Mobile Command Unit, $330,899. Both were obtained at no cost to the County through grants from the Office of Domestic Preparedness in the Department of Homeland Security.
Work Underway on La`i`opua Connector Road in Kona
Construction has begun on a long-awaited connector road between Kealakehe and the Villages at La`i`opua that when completed will provide motorists a new mauka-makai access and shorten driving times for parents taking students to the area’s schools.
A blessing ceremony for the project took place on November 1, 2007, attended by Mayor Harry Kim, Chairman of the Department of Hawaiian Homelands Micah A. Kane, President of the Kaniohale Community Association Bo Kahui, Council Members K. Angel Pilago and Brenda Ford, Department of Public Works Director Bruce McClure and other officials, project participants and community members.
The connector will run for approximately 3,800 feet from Keanalehu Drive in the Villages of La`i`opua, mauka on Manawale`a Street to connect with Kealaka`a Street in the Kealakehe housing area.
On the makai end, Keanalehu Drive connects with Kealakehe Parkway and Queen Ka`ahumanu Highway. Bike lanes are on the mauka and makai side of Manawale`a Street.
Cost of the project is projected to be $10.3 million and completion is scheduled for September 17, 2008. Eventually, Keanalehu Street will be extended to Palani Road. However, that project is not currently scheduled for construction.
For the public’s safety, the County will close the Kealakehe pedestrian pathway and asks that students use school buses or find an alternate means of getting to school while construction is taking place.
Also currently under construction in the Kealakehe area are the Palani Road Safety Improvements, a 13-month project that will extend Kealaka`a Street to meet a new intersection at Palani Road. This extension will include sidewalks, curbs, gutters, drainage and guardrails. The project will realign Palani Road to accommodate a new four-way intersection with a traffic light at Palihiolo Street, one of the entrances into Queen Liliuokalani Subdivision.
The Department of Public Works asks for the public’s patience during the course of the projects.
For updated information on this road work and other projects around the Island of Hawai`i, call the 24-hour Hotline at 334-9559.
COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD
County Transfer Stations – Holiday Closures
The County of Hawai`i Solid Waste Division would like to notify the community that all County transfer stations and landfills will be closed for the following holidays:
· Thanksgiving Day – November 22, 2007 – Thursday
· Christmas Day – Tuesday, December 25, 2007 – Tuesday
· New Years Day – Tuesday, January 1, 2008 - Tuesday
The County of Hawai`i's 21 Transfer Stations throughout the Big Island and the two permitted Sanitary Landfills at Pu`uanahulu and South Hilo will be closed on those three holidays.
All locations will reopen the day after each holiday.
We respectfully ask your kokua on these holidays. The Solid Waste Division Employees appreciate the opportunity to spend the holidays with their families and thank everyone in the community for their cooperation.
For more information, please call Bobby Gonsalves, Solid Waste Operations Superintendent at 961-8514.
Public Works Engineering Division Minimizes Cash Transactions
The Engineering Division of Public Works will minimize handling cash, and accept checks and money orders starting November 1, 2007. This applies to permit applications, subdivision inspection fees and copies of public records.
All check payments will require a current driver’s license or a valid picture I.D. at the time of payment. Checks returned for insufficient funds will be assessed $20.00 for each transaction. Temporary checks are not accepted.
Cash for copies of public records that cost $2.00 or less will be accepted.
The primary responsibility of the Engineering Division of Public Works is to plan, design, review, and construct roads, bridges and flood control facilities. The division also implements and enforces applicable regulatory requirements of Chapter 10, Hawai`i County Code (HCC), grading, grubbing and stockpiling, Chapter 22, HCC, work within county right-of-way, and Chapter 27, HCC, flood control. The division reviews subdivision, ohana, variance and change of zone applications.
Offices are located in Hilo at 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 7, and in Kailua–Kona at 75-7506 Kuakini Highway. Office hours are weekdays, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., closed on holidays.
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. The last day for pickup is Wednesday, November 21.
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.
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 .
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 .
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 |
Kea`au Transfer Station |
5 |
Construct Reuse Area award bid 10/9/07 |
Volcano Transfer Station |
6 |
Install access ramps work completed 10/12/07 |
Waiohinu Transfer Station |
6 |
Install access ramps 10/24/07 |
Keauhou Transfer Station |
8 |
Install access ramps 11/16/07 |
Kaauhuhu Transfer Station |
9 |
Asphalt Surface Repair 10/22/07 |
For further information, please contact Terin Gloor, Solid Waste Civil Engineer at 961-8058.
County Seeks Environmental Commissioners for Vacancies in North, South Kona
The County of Hawai`i is seeking civic-minded applicants to fill vacancies to represent North Kona and South Kona on the County’s Environmental Commission. Citizens have the opportunity to serve on important boards and commissions that make decisions which affect the quality of life on our island, and determine the future for generations to come.
The new Environmental Management Commission members would begin their terms in January 1, 2008.
The following commissions currently have vacancies:
· District 7: South Kona (portions of Honaunau, Capt. Cook, Kealakekua), and North Kona (Kainaliu, Keauhou, Kahaluu, Holualoa)
· District 8: North Kona (Kailua-Kona, Kealakehe, Kalaoa, Puuanahulu).
·
To apply, you may pick up an application at the Mayor’s Office at 891 Ululani Street, Hilo 96720 or the Kona mayor’s office at Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Suite 103, Kailua-Kona 96750. Applications may also be found on line at www.hawaii-county.com , after clicking on the board/commission link. Upon completing the application, you may drop off or mail the application to either of the above addresses or to Lincoln Ashida, Corporation Counsel at Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Suite 325, Hilo 96720. Phone: (808) 961-8304, extension 118, or via email at Lashida@co.hawaii.hi.us .
County Seeks Applicants for Public Access, Salary Commission Vacancies
The County of Hawai`i is seeking civic-minded applicants to fill vacancies on County commissions. Citizens have the opportunity to serve on important boards and commissions that make decisions which affect the quality of life on our island, and determine the future for generations to come.
The following commissions currently have vacancies:
· Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission: District 3 vacancy (represented by Council member J Yoshimoto)
· Salary Commission: Vacancies in District 4 (represented by Council member Stacy Higa), District 5 (represented by Council member Emily Naeole), District 6 (represented by Council member Bob Jacobson).
The Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission, commonly known as the “Open Space Commission,” is charged with developing and maintaining a prioritized list of qualifying lands within the County worthy of preservation, and to make annual recommendations to the Mayor and County Council regarding those properties. This commission includes nine members appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the Council.
The Salary Commission reviews and compensates all County elected officials and appointed directors and deputy directors so that their total salaries and benefits have a reasonable relationship to compensation in the public and private sectors. The Salary Commission consults with those boards and commissions which have appointing authority for department heads.
Volunteering for commissions normally takes no more than one day a month, and a few hours a month in preparation time. You will have the satisfaction of knowing you have served your community and played a part in shaping the future of our island.
To apply, you may pick up an application at the Mayor’s Office at 891 Ululani Street, Hilo 96720 or the Kona mayor’s office at Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Suite 103, Kailua-Kona 96750. Applications may also be found on line at www.hawaii-county.com , after clicking on the board/commission link. Upon completing the application, you may drop off or mail the application to either of the above addresses or to Lincoln Ashida, Corporation Counsel at Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Suite 325, Hilo 96720. Phone: (808) 961-8304, extension 118, or via email at Lashida@co.hawaii.hi.us .
County of Hawai`i Offers Home Repair Loans
The Office of Housing and Community Development is currently accepting applications to its Residential Emergency Repair Program (RERP). This program was established in 1997 to make low-interest loans available to low-and moderate-income homeowners who are interested in repairing and improving their primary residence.
The RERP loan can be used for roof repairs, electrical and plumbing work, sewer improvements, termite treatment and damages caused by termites or wood rot and the installation of a solar water heating system.
Loans range from $2,500 to $25,000 at 3% interest. Loan payments are deferred for 15 years at which time full payment will be due. Applicants 62 years or older or with special needs may have 30% of the principal balance of the loan forgiven as a grant.
For more information or an application contact Dawnelle Forsythe at 959-4642. Application packets can also be found on-line at http://www.hawaii-county.com/directory/dir_housing.htm .
Police Host Peer Support Training; All Interested Parties Invited
The Hawaii Police Department is hosting the 2007 Hawaii State Peer Support Training/Conference at the Marriott Waikoloa Beach Resort & Spa on November 13-14.
The theme is "Pulama 'ia ke kahu malama" ("Caring for the Caregiver").
The keynote speaker will be Genevieve "Jenny" Wiley from Jefferson City, Missouri. She has a master's degree in social work and is the Disaster Readiness Coordinator for the Department of Mental Health. She will speak about the psychological effects of trauma on responders.
All interested members of government agencies, businesses, non-profit organizations and the general public are invited to attend.
Registration fee is $250 and includes admission, breakfast, lunch, refreshments and all materials provided by the presenters.
Checks should be made out to the Hawaii Police Department c/o Peer Support Unit and mailed to:
Officer Renee Morinaka
Peer Support Unit
Hawaii Police Department
74-5221 Queen Kaahumanu Highway
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Cash, checks and purchase orders will be accepted at the door but credit cards are not accepted.
For more information, call Officer Morinaka at (808) 936-1205.
County Accepting Applications for Elderly Housing in Pepe`ekeo
The County of Hawaii, Office of Housing and Community (OHCD) is currently accepting applications for one-bedroom units located at the Kula`imano Elderly Housing Project in Pepe`ekeo.
Occupancy cannot exceed 2 persons per unit. Eligible applicants must be 62 years of age or older and meet income requirements. The tenant’s share of rent is based on gross income of the household.
Gross annual income by household size cannot exceed:
· 1-person household $ 21,800
· 2-person household $ 24,900
Applications will be processed in the order (date & time) that they are received by the OHCD. For additional information or an application, please call Garrett at 959-4642.
Seeking Applicants to Vacancies on County’s Boards and Commissions
The County of Hawai`i is seeking applicants from our community to the following Boards and Commissions which currently have vacancies:
1. Committee on Aging: Two vacancies; one in Kohala and one in Ka`u.
2. Arborist Advisory Committee: One vacancy (at-large).
3. Family Violence Advisory Committee: Presently not empanelled; we intend on doing so, so there are many vacancies (all at large).
4. Fire Board of Appeals: Five vacancies (all at-large).
5. Highway Safety Council: Four vacancies (all at-large).
6. Kailua Village Design Committee: Three vacancies.
7. Pension Board: One vacancy (at-large).
8. Salary Commission: Three vacancies; Council Districts 4, 5 and 6.
9. Transportation Commission: Two vacancies; Council Districts 1 and 4.
10. Veterans Advisory Committee: Four vacancies.
11. Water Board: One vacancy (Council District 8).
12. Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission: One vacancy (Council District 3).
To apply, you may pick up an application at the Mayor’s Office at 891 Ululani Street, Hilo 96720 or the Kona mayor’s office at Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Suite 103, Kailua-Kona 96750. Upon completing the application, you may drop off or mail the application to either of the above addresses or to Lincoln Ashida, Corporation Counsel at Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Suite 325, Hilo 96720.
If you have any questions, please call Lincoln Ashida at 961-8251.
The Ikuo Hisaoka Gymnasium, a County Parks and Recreation facility in Kamehameha Park in Kapa`au, North Kohala, sustained major structural damage during the October 15, 2006 earthquake.
Extent of the damage
The connections where several of the building’s concrete columns join the steel roof framing were compromised by a loss of concrete around the anchor bolts connecting the two components.
The earthquake also damaged much of the suspended ceiling and many of the facility’s light fixtures. Other damage included broken plumbing fixtures, cracking of walls and broken tiles.
Where are we now on the Hisaoka Gym repair project?
Here are the most recent and upcoming developments, according to the Dept of Parks and Recreation:
The 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.
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.
Redemption Centers – Hours of Operation
The following is a primer on the State of Hawai`i's beverage container redemption program works, and the location of the County of Hawai’i’s beverage container redemption sites:
Qualifying Beverage Containers:
What’s IN: Eligible (redeemable) beverage containers include: soft drinks, soda, water, juice, tea and coffee drinks, and low alcohol content drinks (beer, malt beverages, wine coolers, mixed spirits) in metal, glass or #1 plastic, 64 oz. or less.
What’s OUT: Ineligible (unredeemable) containers include: milk, wine and liquor containers.
Reminder: ONLY eligible HI5¢ labeled containers can be redeemed.
Qualified beverage containers may be redeemed for cash at the following locations:
**Transfer Station centers closed daily from 1:00-1:30pm for lunch.**
CURRENTLY OPEN |
DAYS/HOURS OF OPERATION |
OPERATOR |
|
|
|
Hawi Transfer Station** |
Saturday only: 8 am-4:30 pm. |
ARC of Hilo |
(Open Saturday only) |
(closed for lunch 1:00-1:30) |
|
Hilo, 1260 Kilauea Ave. |
Tues-Sat 9am-5pm(Closed 12:30pm-1:30 pm) |
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
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.
Hawai`i County … a nice place to live. County of Hawai`i … a great place to work.
Consider employment with the County of Hawai`i because it offers: numerous positions, great benefits, provides valuable services, diverse culture, a beautiful island – not to mention warm and friendly residents.
Call the County of Hawai`i’s job hotline (808) 961-8618 or visit www.co.hawaii.hi.us to download an application packet.
For job postings, visit our website: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/civil_serv/civ_serv.htm
Click on employment opportunities to download all of the forms.
COMMUNITIES IN ACTION
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
Community Emergency Response Team Training November 3, 10, 13, 20 and 27
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training workshops will be offered in Kona on November 3, 10, 13, 20 and 27th.
These workshops are hosted by the Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency, the Fire Department, and the Hawaii County Resource Center, a program of the Department of Research and Development.
CERT Training consists of five sessions in which participants will learn about emergency response procedures and understand their roles and functions in the event of a major emergency or natural disaster that affects their community.
WHEN AND WHERE:
- November 3 and 10 sessions, from 8 am-5 pm
- November 13, 20, and 27 sessions, from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm
- All trainings will be conducted at the Kahakai Elementary School Cafeteria,
76-147 Royal Poinciana Drive.
The goal of CERT Training is for emergency personnel to train residents, community organizations or workplaces in basic response skills. CERT members are trained to assess damage after a disaster, extinguish small fires, teach fire safety, perform basic rescue operations, provide first aid and organize procurement of supplies.
These hands-on workshops will be conducted by a certified CERT instructor of the Hawaii Fire Department.
Registration is limited to 25 participants. The program fee is sponsored by the County of Hawaii, which covers the workshops and CERT Training manual.
To register for the training workshops, contact Frecia Basilio, Hawaii County Resource Center, at 981-8344 or email fbasilio@co.hawaii.hi.us .
Police Officer of the Month to be Honored at Luncheon November 7
The November 7th, 2007, Officer of the Month Luncheon will feature Officer Ellsworth Fontes, Jr. as the honoree. The setting for the 12 noon event will be the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel, and Virginia Isbell will be the sponsor. Officer Fontes is being recognized for his efforts in identifying and arresting the suspect in a residential burglary within three hours of the commission of the crime.
Officer Reynolds Kahalewai of Community Policing will be the featured speaker at the lunch. He will talk about burglaries, and will give some tips on how to avoid becoming a burglary victim.
The Kona Crime Prevention Committee is an organization that encourages community involvement in aiding and supporting the Kona Police Department in their efforts to prevent crime, deter potential criminals and enforce the law. Membership is open to organizations or individuals wishing to further the purposes of the Kona Crime Prevention Committee and is effective upon payment of dues.
The public is invited to attend the Officer of the Month luncheons held on the first Wednesday of each month. Cost of the luncheon is $18. Parking in the King Kamehameha lot is an additional $2.
Reservations are necessary and may be made by contacting Liz Holley at 326-7787.
No Footprints in the Sand: A True Story from Kalaupapa Nov 10 in Hakalau
Be part of a very moving evening with Henry Nalaielua and Sally Jo Bowman, co-authors of the book No Footprints in the Sand who will talk about the life of Hanson’s Disease patients in Kalaupapa, Molokai.
At age 11, Henry was taken away from his home in Ninole on the Big Island. Diagnosed with Hanson’s disease, Henry was taken first to a hospital in Kalihi on O‘ahu and then to Kalaupapa on Molokai, where he has lived for the past 70+ years.
The history, the heartbreak and the conditions of growing up in Kalaupapa will deepen our understanding of a little-known part of Hawaii‘s history.
WHEN: Saturday, November 10, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Motonaga Garage Gallery at Akiko's B&B, Wailea village, Hakalau (mauka of Hwy 19 at 16-mile marker)
Park at the Hakalau Baseball park and walk 3 minutes into the village. Admission: $10 for adults, $8 children under 12. For reservations please call Akiko at 963-6422 or email: msakiko@hawaii.rr.com .
November Kona Town Meeting to Cover New West Hawai`i Community College
The status of the future West Hawai`i Community College campus is a hot topic. . Please come listen to University of Hawai`i Board of Regents and the Governor’s liaison speak about the plans and funding for the new West Hawai`i Community College at upcoming Kona Town Meeting on Tuesday, November 13 at the Makaeo Pavilion at the old Kona airport.
WHEN: Tuesday, November 13, 6:00 pm.
WHERE: Makaeo Pavilion at the old Kona airport
The speakers will include members of University of Hawaii Board of Regents, Governor Lingle’s West Hawai`i liaison Andy Smith, State Representative from District 7 Cindy Evans, former Director of West Hawaii Community College Dr. Walter Kunitake, Food Services Manager Jim Lightner, Palamanui Planning Director Roger Harris, community leader Lionel Kutner and Governor’s Advisory Board member Rick Vidgen. Councilmember Brenda Ford will provide a Council update.
Kona Town meetings are presented by Community Enterprises, a non-partisan, non-profit organization, to provide vital information on community concerns to Kona citizens. Light. refreshments will be served.
For more information contact Denny Coffman at 322-5076 or Fred Housel at 331-8602.
Hawaii HomeOwnership Center – Free Orientations in Hilo and Kona
The Hawaii HomeOwnership Center is a non-profit organization that provides homebuyer education and counseling to help people prepare to buy a home. Come to a free orientation and see if our services can help you.
County of Hawaii
Office of Housing & Community Development
1990 Kinoole Street, Suite 104, Hilo, Hi
Friday, November 9, 6pm
Friday, December 7, 6pm
Mayor’s Office
75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Suite 103, Kona, Hi
Friday, November 9, 6pm
Saturday, November 10, 10am
Please call 877-523-9503 (toll free) to reserve a space.
Concert to Benefit Preservation of Kahalu`u Bay Saturday, November 17
The community is cordially invited to a concert to benefit the preservation and restoration of Kahalu'u Bay on Saturday, November 17 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort, Hawai'i Lawn.
Serving as emcee is comedian Frank De Lima. Headliners for the benefit event include Na Hoku Award winners Maunalua and Natali