FEATURE ARTICLE

·         Norris Gonsalves, Dept of Water Supply Pipefitter, Named County Employee of the Year

·         Public Works Employees Named County Manager and Supervisor of the Year

COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

·         2007 Hawai`i Island Healthcare Conference Saturday, December 1

·         Water Conservation Notice in Hakalau, Wailea Areas

·         Household Hazardous Waste Collections Dec 1 in Hilo, Dec 8 in Kona

·         County Transfer Stations – Holiday Closures

·         First International Conference on the Coqui Frog February 7-9, 2008 in Hilo

·         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

·         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

·         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

·         November Kona Town Meeting to Cover New West Hawai`i Community College

·         Hungry and Homeless Awareness Luncheon Thursday, November 15 in Kona

·         West Hawai`i Fisheries Council Meets in Kona on November 15

·         Hawai`i Home Ownership Center – Free Orientations in Hilo and Kona

·         Kona-Kohala Chamber Environment & Natural Resource Conference November 16

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

·         Carousel of Care Caregiving Event on Saturday, November 17 in Keauhou

·         Big Island Music Group with Global Environmental Message

·         Christmas at Keauhou Bay Culinary Benefit Saturday, December 1

·         Waimea Christmas Parade Road Closure Saturday, December 1

·         Kailua-Kona Community Christmas Parade Saturday, December 15

·         Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival Saturday, February 2

·         High-Quality Mulch Available at Kealakehe Transfer Station

·         Check Out our County’s Community Development Plan Website

TRAFFIC ALERT

·         Signs and Markings Projects

UPCOMING EVENTS

HAWAII COUNTY WEBSITE

WE VALUE YOUR FEEDBACK

TO ADD OR REMOVE YOUR NAME

FOR MORE INFORMATION

---

FEATURE ARTICLES

Norris Gonsalves, Water Dept Pipefitter, Named County Employee of Year

The following article was provided by Kanani Aton, Public Information and Education Specialist with the Department of Water Supply.

 

Recognized as the best of the best Hawai`i County employees, Department of Water Supply pipefitter Norris Gonsalves was presented the 2007 County of Hawai`i Employee of the Year Award on October 19, 2007.

 

“Outstanding in work habits, Norris follows safety rules, takes good care of equipment, tools, and government property,” said Department of Water Supply Manager Milton Pavao.  “He is personable and well-liked by his peers because he is considerate of others, always offering his services if they need help.”

 

Norris Gonsalves is currently a Pipefitter in the Department of Water Supply’s District II, which covers a portion of North Hilo, Hamakua, and North and South Kohala.  Norris’ main duties consist of installing, repairing, maintaining, and replacing pipelines and appurtenances so the Department’s customers could receive clean and safe potable water.

 

A graduate of Honoka’a High School, Norris and obtained an AS degree in Automotive Repair at Hawai`i Community College in Hilo.  He came to the Department of Water Supply in 2000 as a Waterworks Helper in the Department’s District II, covering North Hilo, Hamakua, North and South Kohala.  He came from the State Irrigation System, where he was an Irrigation Systems Worker.  This background, along with his dedication, and willingness to learn made him an excellent candidate for promotion to Pipe fitter, the position he holds today.

 

Leading by example

 

In addition to a three-year stint of perfect attendance, Norris leads by example:

·        obtained Commercial Drivers License (CDL) to increase field work versatility and save Department time and money by achieving faster, more efficient project completion;

·        Worked all hours of the night without complaint during such emergencies as the October 2006 earthquake and the Waimea Drought earlier this year.

·        Along with others on the Department Pipe Tapping Team, he represented the State of Hawai`i at a national championship and will do so again next year.

·        While not part of his job function, offered his Automotive Repair knowledge to minimize down time for Department vehicles thereby increasing efficiency and reducing cost.

·        As a past Safety Committee member from 2005 to 2006, showed concern for the safety of his peers and came to the table with useful recommendations.

 

Volunteering his services to the community

 

Norris has participated in community activities: volunteering with Honoka`a Church to install a graveyard pipeline, donating time and equipment to help grade the YMCA Park.  After the earthquake of October 2006, he donated time and equipment to help farmers with their irrigation system because of damage to the Upper Hamakua Ditch.

 

“Norris shows initiative, unselfishness and a willing attitude in his employment with us,” said Pavao.  “He has the desire to serve his community to the best of his ability.”

 

Please join the Department of Water Supply in commending and congratulating Norris Gonsalves, the 2007 Hawai`i County Employee of the Year.

(go to Contents)

---

Public Works Employees Named County Manager and Supervisor of the Year

The following article was provided by Noelani Whittington, Public Information Specialist with the Department of Public Works.

 

Stanley Nakasone, Head of Public Works Highway Maintenance Division and Ted Toriano, Construction Equipment Supervisor, were recently selected by an independent panel of community members as the County Manager and Supervisor of the Year, respectively, at the County of Hawai`i’s 42nd Annual Employee Recognition Ceremony.

 

Nakasone, a County employee for nearly 40 years, is a visionary leader who is credited with developing the Highways Maintenance Division into a well-coordinated team of 170 employees.

 

Earlier this year, the Highways Division was honored by the American Public Works Association, Hawai`i Chapter for its emergency response to community concerns involving access in and out of Waikoloa Village in South Kohala.

 

This is a second award for Nakasone and Toriano. The first was in 2001 for building an emergency detour for the Pahala community, when a flood cut off the road between Hilo and West Hawai`i forcing Ka`u residents to go around the island to get to Hilo.

 

A true team builder, Nakasone credits the team effort put forth by the Highways Division in making them so successful.

 

Ted Toriano, Construction Equipment Supervisor with Public Works’ Automotive Division in Waimea, was singled out for his excellent ability to facilitate and coordinate repairs in a timely manner at both the Kona and Waimea baseyards.  The Automotive Division is responsible for maintaining all County vehicles and equipment.

 

In addition to his outstanding skills and knowledge, Toriano’s enthusiasm and dedication have vastly improved construction maintenance in West Hawai`i, and Waimea in particular.

 

Mayor Harry Kim recognized Nakasone and Toriano as examples of County employees who are able to provide the best in public service, especially during times of emergencies.

(go to Contents)

---

COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

2007 Hawai`i Island Healthcare Conference Saturday December 1

The County of Hawai`i will be sponsoring the 2007 Hawai`i Island Healthcare Conference on December 1, 2007 at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott.  This conference comes amid a healthcare crisis on the Island of Hawai`i, and is a concerted effort to bring these individuals together with a cross-section of the community to identify the issues and work towards solutions in a unified fashion.

 

WHEN:          Saturday, December 1, 2007, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

WHERE:       Waikoloa Beach Marriott, Naupaka Ballroom

 

Therefore, the purposes of this conference are to:

·        Identify and present the major healthcare problems on the Island of Hawai`i

·        Develop how we as a community will take the next steps towards addressing these problems.

 

The three major problem areas that will be addressed in this conference are:

1.      Healthcare Provider Shortages

2.      Healthcare Facilities Shortages

3.      Long-Term Care Services Shortages

 

Among the participants invited is a cross-section of professionals, organizations, businesses, government sectors and interested members of the community.  We hope to achieve a greater understanding of the various issues behind the healthcare crisis by a broad range of people in the community.

 

Invitations to the conference have been sent to members of the public.  Individuals interested in attending are asked to contact project manager Rene Dela Cruz at 961-8508 to check on availability.

(go to Contents)

---

Water Conservation Notice in Hakalau, Wailea Areas

Due to repairs of the Hakalau Iki Spring Source, the Department of Water Supply urges consumers entire Hakalau and Wailea Areas of South Hilo to conserve water while the repairs are being made.  Water Conservation Notice is a voluntary action to reduce water usage by 10%.

 

For customers in the affected area of the Water Conservation Notice, a list of ways to reach the 10% reduction goal is provided: 

 

·        Wash full loads of laundry only.

·        Wash full loads of dishes only.

·        Serve drinking water only when requested.

·        Do not let the faucet run unnecessarily.

·        When bathing, use water only to wet and rinse off.

·        Do not fill up the bathtub.

·        Use a glass to rinse when brushing your teeth.

·        Do not flush toilets unnecessarily.

·        Stop lawn sprinkling.

·        Stop car and boat washing.

·        Stop dust control watering.

·        Use drinking water wisely.

 

Agricultural users shall irrigate only at night from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.  This measure will reduce water loss due to evaporation and minimize water system drain during peak demand.

 

Should you have questions or concerns, please contact Elaine Chiu of the Department of Water Supply at 961-8790.

(go to Contents)

---

Household Hazardous Waste Collections Dec 1 in Hilo, Dec 8 in Kona

Compact fluorescent lights (CFL’s) are energy-saving devices and should be properly disposed of at the upcoming Household Hazardous Waste events sponsored by the County of Hawai`i’s Department of Environmental Management in Hilo, Kona, Waimea and Pahoa.

 

The events will be held at County Transfer Stations in Hilo on December 1, 2007 and in Kealakehe in Kona from 7:30 am to 2:30 pm on December 8, 2007.  The Pahoa event will be March 1, 2008 and in Waimea on March 2, 2008.

 

Materials accepted include automotive materials, antifreeze, used motor oil, corrosives, and all types of batteries, fluorescent lights, mercury thermometers, unused or outdated prescription medications (no controlled substances, sharps & needles), compressed gas cylinders, oil-based paints, toxic garden supplies, poisons & miscellaneous household products.

 

PLEASE, NO business waste, latex paint, explosives, flares, biological or infectious waste, radioactive & shock sensitive materials, fire extinguishers, detergents or non-hazardous materials.

 

Follow the signs during the events and for safety reasons, please remain in your vehicle.

 

Mahalo for your cooperation and for helping protect our environment!

 

For more information on Recycling in Hawai’i County, call our infoline at 961-5044.

 

For more information on hazardous waste disposal from businesses as well as proper disposal of other hazardous materials, please call Gregg Perry with EnviroServices at (808)839-7222, or residents may call the County of Hawai`i Recycling coordinators at 961-8554.

(go to Contents)

---

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.

(go to Contents)

---

First International Conference on the Coqui Frog Feb 7-9, 2008 in Hilo

The Coqui Frog Working Group is organizing the First International Conference on the Coqui Frog on February 7-9, 2008 at the Naniloa Volcanoes Resort (formerly the Naniloa Hotel) in Hilo, Hawai`i.

 

WHEN:          February 7 - 9, 2008

WHERE:       Naniloa Volcanoes Resort (formerly Naniloa Hotel), Crown Room, 93 Banyan Drive, Hilo.

 

Conference Description:

Objective: To provide an opportunity for informational exchange on the coqui frog and other invasive amphibians via oral and poster presentations, invited speakers, and panel discussion for researchers, wildlife, landscape, natural resource, and property management professionals and homeowners concerned with managing the coqui frog in Hawai‘i.

 

Topics relating to amphibian ecology, physiology, genetics, population dynamics, habitat and other information gaps applicable to understanding coqui frogs in order to minimize their spread in Hawai‘i.

 

Register by:  December 28, 2007 (late registration available until January 10, 2008 on a space available basis).

 

Registration:

Registration is not available on-line.  .. The website is www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/coqui/conf08.asp  to download a Registration Form: Adobe PDF form-fillable Registration Form or MS Word Registration Form.

 

Please mail your completed form with payment to:

 

County of Hawai`i

25 Aupuni Street

Attn: Mayor's Office Coqui Frog Program

Hilo, HI   96720

 

Fee for registration received on or before December 28, 2007 is $125.  Registration fee from December 29, 2007 through January 10, 2008 will be $150.

 

Registration for attending a full or partial day (instead of Thursday through Saturday) is also available for $75 ($100 after December 28, 2007 through January 10, 2008). Please make checks payable to "RCUH"  (Do not send cash.  Money orders will be accepted in US currency only.  Credit cards cannot be processed.)

 

Registration fees will cover conference fees, refreshment breaks, lunch, and the Opening Reception.  More details are given on the Registration Form.  Registration forms are also available at most Coqui Frog Working Group agencies on the island of Hawai`i.

 

Conference Facilities and Accommodations:

The conference will be held in the Crown Room at the Naniloa Volcanoes Resort (formerly Naniloa Hotel) at 93 Banyan Drive in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawai`i.  Click on http://www.naniloaresort.com/ to go to the Naniloa Volcanoes Resort website.  You can also make reservations by contacting the hotel (Note: No rooms were blocked for this conference).  Phone number: (808) 969-3333; Fax (808) 969-6622.

 

 

Conference Contacts:

• Shenandoah Marr, UH CTAHR , e-mail: smarr@hawaii.edu Phone: (808) 981-8285 (ext 244)
• Karen Shiroma, County of Hawai`i  e-mail: kshiroma@co.hawaii.hi.us  Phone: (808) 961-8065

Please call between 8:00 am – 4:30 pm Hawai‘i Standard Time (Hawaii does not observe Daylight Savings Time).

(go to Contents)

---

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.

(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.  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.

(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
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.

(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)

---

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, please call Officer Morinaka at (808) 936-1205.

(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).

13. Environmental Commission: Two vacancies (Council districts 7 and 8.)

 

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: