11/16/07 Weekly Report: Little Fire Ant Infestation on Island of Hawai`i; Cyrus Sumida, Dept of Water Supply Supervisor in Ka`u, Wins Coveted Award

The following article was originally posted on the Hawai`i Department of Agriculture’s website, written by Patrick Conant, Ronald A. Heu, Larry Nakahara, Bernarr Kumashiro and Neil Reimer. Tommy Thompson, a researcher with UH-Manoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources Department of Plant and Environmental Protection Sciences, contributed information to this article.

Specimens of the Little Fire Ant (Wasmannia auropunctata), a tiny ant, were first collected by a resident of Hawaiian Paradise Park in March 1999 and submitted to the Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA). They were identified as the little fire ant by HDOA Plant Quarantine Insect Specialist Dr. Neil Reimer, now the department’s Chief of Plant Pest Control Branch.

Wasmannia auropunctata is known throughout central and northern South America, the West Indies, and the warmer portions of Mexico.

It is uncommon in south Florida, and entomologists have reported its presence in West Africa, Galapagos Islands, New Caledonia, and the Solomon Islands and it was recently discovered in Tahiti.

Description of little fire ants

Little fire ants are tiny, measuring 1/16 inch long. They are pale orange and characteristically move very slowly. They produce painful stings and large red welts. Ants on the ground do not swarm, but will readily sting when they get under clothing. They are most commonly encountered as they drop off shrubbery, but will also get into the clothing of a person who is sitting or lying on infested ground.

Tiny ant packs a nasty sting

The severity of the sting of the little fire ant is out of proportion to its small size. For some people, the sting lasts for three days, burning and aching painfully at first and later itching intensely by spells.

For people who are allergic to the formic acid in the ant’s venom, one sting from a little fire ant can lead to painful swelling that can last for a week or more.

Where little fire ants are found on our island

In April 1999, three separate infestations of the little fire ant were found at Hawaiian Paradise Park and another infestation was uncovered in a nursery at Kapoho in the Puna District of the Big Island. In late August 1999, the ant was found in 20 acres of a much larger fruit orchard in Papaikou, about 4 miles north of Hilo.

Apparently, infested palm trees were planted as windbreaks around the fruit orchard in 1995, indicating that the little fire ant was probably established in some commercial nursery plants at least four years prior to its being first discovered. Today, the little fire ant is widely distributed in East Hawai`i, with infestations occurring from Laupahoehoe in Hamakua all the way to Kalapana in Puna and mauka to Mountain View.

The highest elevation where the little fire ant has been found is at 1500 feet. Infestations are also known in other mauka areas such as Waiakea Uka and Kaumana in South Hilo.

Over 50 infestation sites are known in East Hawai`i. Of these, over a dozen nurseries and landscaper baseyards are infested and are potential sources of infested potted plants. HDOA is working with the owners to suppress the ants, if they supply the proper toxic bait. HDOA and UH-CTAR staff have together identified a granular pesticide that may be useful in suppressing or possibly disinfesting ants in potted plants. All other known infestations are in Puna or South Hilo districts.

In 2006, a joint survey (Natural Resource Conservation Service and University of Hawai`i–Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit) of all known plant nurseries in Kona did not uncover any little fire ants in either the North or South Kona Districts.

However, the steady traffic of landscaping plants from East Hawai`i to Kona presents a high risk for introduction of the ant to Kona. Persons transporting plant parts, soil, cinders, green waste, etc. to Kona should use the peanut butter chopstick method to detect little fire ants prior to movement.

Do not move infested material (see http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/oc/freepubs/pdf/IP-16.pdf ) .

In 1999, an infestation of little fire ants was found at Kalihiwai on Kauai. Through the use of Amdro fire ant bait, the infestation is being suppressed there.

Note: this small infestation has not been eradicated after 8 years of treatment. Amdro can only suppress the little fire ant, not eradicate it. HDOA experts believe there is a need to find and legalize a more effective bait to effectively eradicate incipient populations on other islands.

The little fire ant’s habitat

The ants are easily found outdoors crawling on the ground, in and under potted plants, and on ornamental foliage and flowers. Worker ants feed on dead insects, other arthropods, small animals, and prey on many insects. The ant also feeds on the honeydew produced by sucking insects such as aphids, mealybugs and scales.

Competition by this ant gradually eliminates other ant species and terrestrial invertebrates in newly-colonized areas. There has been an increasing number of reports of people being stung inside their homes on the Big Island.

Wasmannia auropunctata can be a household and school pest which infests clothing, beds, furniture, or food. Farm workers in orchards and coffee fields report being stung while picking fruit and tending trees.

Little fire ants do not form definite nests, but clusters of them may sometimes be found in cracks and crevices or under leaf litter, stones, or other material on the ground. These clusters, which contain several queens, numerous workers, pupae, larvae and eggs, are connected with each other by movement of the worker ants.

Control

For growers of tropical fruit and nut orchard crops, Amdro can be applied in bait stations. However, a copy of the Special Local Need label is required and is available from the HDOA Hilo office.

Hazards to pets from fire ant stings

Pets can go blind from the sting of a little fire ant. There have been reports from a few sources in East Hawai`i of corneal clouding in dogs and cats after fire ant stings to their eyes.

For more information, you can click on http://www.hawaiiag.org/hdoa/npa/npa99-02-lfireant.pdf . or see http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/oc/freepubs/pdf/IP-16.pdf .

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Cyrus Sumida, Dept of Water Supply Supervisor in Ka`u, Wins Coveted Award

Cyrus Sumida was awarded the 2007 William Y. Thompson Award on October 4, 2007, in recognition of his dedication, superior work performance, outstanding service to Hawai`i’s water industry and love for the people of Hawaii.

“Cyrus’ nomination is based on his high level of awareness of staff needs, and consistent recognition of their quality performance,” said Department of Water Supply Manager Milton Pavao. “He leads by example, having had a perfect attendance record for 19 of the past 20 years of service to the Water Supply.”

Sumida serves as District Supervisor 1 for the Department of Water Supply in the Ka’u District, which covers Pahala, Na‘alehu, Waiohinu and South Point (Kalae). He is in charge of the day- to-day operations of the water system in the district, providing safe drinking water to 1,500 customers.

Sumida began his career at Water Supply as a Waterworks Helper in 1971, and through hard work and dedication worked his way up to Pipeftter, Lead Pipefitter and ultimately to his currrent District Supervisor position.

Chief of Operations Daryl Ikeda said: “Cyrus constantly suggests ways to make the water system more efficient, and takes pride in his district as evidenced by the immaculate condition of tank sites, and facilities.”

Sumida thinks back to when he started over 35 years ago -- Water Supply in Ka‘u had one truck and two workers to handle the entire region.

Sumida is known for personally visiting customers who have complaints, and tries to solve the problem right there. “He manages to cover a large service area with minimal staff and resources. Even with these challenges, his staff is dedicated to him because he is fair and honest with everyone,” Ikeda said.

Outside of his Water Supply job, Cyrus belongs to two community service groups that provide manpower to cook for fundraisers, adopt a highway and clean out Punalu‘u Pond when it fills with debris. Sumida has gone to Kaho‘olawe in 2005 and 2006 as a volunteer to help restore and protect the island’s resources.

“We at the Department of Water Supply are very fortunate to have a man like Cyrus Sumida running our District of Ka’u. This award is timely and appropriate for this dedicated man known for his positive work ethic. Everyone, help us congratulate Cyrus Sumida for noteworthy water services accolade.” said Pavao.

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COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

First of Five Community Meetings to Plan for Lako Street Extension

The Court ruled in September that the Final Environmental Assessment for Lako Street is adequate and an Environmental Impact Statement isn’t necessary. The court’s decision allows the County to start planning the extension of Lako Street to Ali`i Drive.

A complaint filed against the County of Hawai`i in 2004 claimed the Environmental Assessment was inadequate and an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) was necessary. Last month, the County of Hawai`i received the news that the 2004 Environmental Assessment is adequate.

The planned Lako Street Extension is expected to distribute and ease traffic along Royal Poinciana Drive and between Kailua to Keauhou. It will also become another mauka-makai connector road from Ali`i Drive to Kuakini Highway, serve as a planned emergency route in the event of a natural disaster and accommodate the residents of Komohana Kai subdivision.

The first of a series of five monthly community meetings took place on Tuesday, November 13, 2007. The schedule for upcoming meetings is to be announced.

The County is using a “Context Sensitive Solution” (CSS) process to facilitate discussion of the issues surrounding the Lako Street Extension project. This process was successfully used in the La’aloa Avenue Project to reach a consensus on the design.

A CSS is reached by involving stakeholders in a project’s development, alternatives development, screening and evaluation process. Using the CSS process, the Advisory Group will be created and will discuss goals, values, interests, issues and views relating to the Lako Street Extension. The ultimate goal of the Context Sensitive Solution approach is to ensure the design and construction of Lako Street Extension will be carried out with the goals and values of the community.

Members serving on this Advisory Group are:

· Harry Ruddle, Area Resident

· Josephine Keliipio, Area Resident

· Mary Anne Maigret, State Parks Department

· Jack Alexander, Lutheran Church, Affected Property Owner

· Dr. William Foulk, Lawyer representing John Kobayashi

· Bob Ward, Bicycle and Pedestrian Advocate

· Troy Kindred, Civil Defense Administrator

· Ruby McDonald, Office of Hawaiian Affairs

In December 2006, the portion of Lako Street to Kuakini Highway opened to the public. This alternate route means is a shorter drive time to Holualoa for motorists heading mauka on Lako Street, avoiding the winding turns on lower Hualalai Road and alleviating traffic on Kuakini Highway.

For more information about the Lako Street Extension or Context Sensitive Solution, please contact Cheryl Yoshida at CH2M Hill by e-mail at Cheryl.Yoshida@CH2M.com . To download the final Environment Assessment (EA), please go to www.co.hawaii.hi.us . Go to Projects Update and download the Lako EA.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Upgrading of Pahoa, Glenwood, Volcano, Wai`ohinu Transfer Stations

The Solid Waste Division will be upgrading its transfer stations to support the County’s increased recycling and waste diversion goals and to improve efficiency of our solid waste management system. To reflect the increased emphasis on recycling and waste diversion, the County is renaming the facilities recycling stations.

The first upgrades involve the Pahoa, Glenwood, Volcano and Wai`ohinu Recycling Stations, which were chosen because they are the most seriously deteriorated.

The County is holding three public meetings and encourages interested residents and business owners to attend one of the following meetings:

· Pahoa Neighborhood Facility (15-2910 Puna Road) on Tuesday, December 4 at 6 pm

· Na’alehu Community Center (95-5635 Mamalahoa Highway) on Wednesday December 5 at 6 pm

· Volcano Community Center (19-4030 Wright Road) on Thursday, December 6 at 6 pm.

The County would like to hear from the community what design features would encourage the public to increase their use of the stations for recycling, as well as make the facilities safer, more efficient, and more attractive.

Note: The County is considering converting the Wai`ohinu Recycling Station to a regional collection facility that will offer commercial waste collection.

The design for the upgraded facilities will contain some basic elements listed below, followed by optional elements:

Basic Elements for each Recycling Station:

· Covered refuse unloading areas

· An improved HI5 Redemption Center

· Scrap metal recycling collection

· Covered mixed recyclables collection

· Green waste collection

· Improved site signage

· Perimeter fencing and entrance gates

· Fire alarms

· Improved landscaping

Optional Elements for Recycling Stations:

· Reuse center

· Household hazardous waste collection

· Appliance collection area

· Covered area with a table for educational use

· Non-potable water for washing hands

· Site lighting.

Comments may also be submitted via email to Terin Gloor at TGloor@co.hawaii.hi.us or in writing to the Solid Waste Division, 108 Railroad Ave., Hilo, Hawaii 96720.

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Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnerships Program Programs

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

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

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

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

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

The proposal forms and federal guidelines covering the eligible activities are available at the following locations Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except on holidays.

OFFICE OF HOUSING AND HAWAI`I COUNTY SERVICES

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Hanama Place

Hilo Armory 75-5706 Kuakini Highway

50 Wailuku Drive Suite 103

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

Phone: 961-8379 Phone: 329-5226

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

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

Community Development Block Grant Program:

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

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

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

· •Acquisition, disposition of real property, relocation payments, clearance

· Public facilities

· Public service

· Payment of non-federal share

· Homeownership (i.e. subsidized interest, mortgage guarantee, down payments, closing costs)

· Rehabilitation and preservation

· Economic development, micro enterprises

· Planning and administration

HOME Program:

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

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

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

· Development hard costs defined as the actual cost of constructing or rehabilitating housing

· Acquisition costs

· Related soft costs defined as other reasonable and necessary costs incurred and associated with the financing or development (or both) of new construction, rehabilitation or acquisition of housing assisted with HOME funds

· Relocation costs

· Costs related to tenant-based rental assistance.

Applicants applying for HOME funding are required to match for every $1.00 of federal HOME funds expended for the project with at least $.25 of eligible matching funds.

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

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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.

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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.

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).

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Fresh Produce Available for Certified Low-income Seniors Islandwide

The County’s Office of Aging, Nutrition Program and Coordinated Services are again teaming up with the Hawai`i Food Bank to distribute locally-grown fresh fruit and vegetables to low-income seniors at sites islandwide for 10 weeks starting September 17. 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.

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Down Payment Assistance Loans Available to First-Time Home Buyers

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

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

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

Leasehold property is not eligible.

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

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Home Repair Loans Available for Hawaiian Home Lessees

The Office of Housing and Community Development is pleased to announce that it is currently accepting applications to its Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) Home Repair Loan Program.

NAHASDA was established by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) and administered by the Office of Housing and Community Development to make low-interest loans available to low-and moderate-income DHHL lessees who are interested in repairing their primary residence.

The NAHASDA loan can be used for roof repairs, electrical and plumbing work, sewer improvements, termite treatment and damages caused by termites or wood rot and the installation of a solar water heating system in conjunction with repairs.

Loans range from $2,500 to $50,000 at 0% to 3% interest. The interest rate is set based on age and income.

Applicants 62 years or older and very-low income may have a 0% interest and deferred payment loan with a possible grant provision.

For more information or an application contact Dawnelle Forsythe at 959-4642. Application packets can also be found on-line at http://www.hawaii-county.com/directory/dir_housing.htm .

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Dept of Environmental Management Solid Waste Projects Update

The following is a list of current and upcoming projects at our Solid Waste Transfer Stations and Baseyards. These projects address safety concerns, general repair and maintenance, environmental issues and Department of Health regulations.

All project dates may be subject to change without notice due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Location of Project	Council District	Work being done
Kea`au Transfer Station	5	Construct Reuse Area, award bid 10/9/07
Waiohinu Transfer Station	6	Install access ramps, completed 10/24/07
Keauhou Transfer Station	8	Install access ramps 11/16/07

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

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County Seeks Environmental Commissioners for Vacancies in North, South Kona

The County of Hawai`i is seeking civic-minded applicants to fill vacancies to represent North Kona and South Kona on the County’s Environmental Commission. Citizens have the opportunity to serve on important boards and commissions that make decisions which affect the quality of life on our island, and determine the future for generations to come.

The new Environmental Management Commission members would begin their terms in January 1, 2008.

The following commissions currently have vacancies:

· District 7: South Kona (portions of Honaunau, Capt. Cook, Kealakekua), and North Kona (Kainaliu, Keauhou, Kahaluu, Holualoa)

· District 8: North Kona (Kailua-Kona, Kealakehe, Kalaoa, Puuanahulu).

To apply, you may pick up an application at the Mayor’s Office at 891 Ululani Street, Hilo 96720 or the Kona mayor’s office at Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Suite 103, Kailua-Kona 96750. Applications may also be found on line at www.hawaii-county.com , after clicking on the board/commission link. Upon completing the application, you may drop off or mail the application to either of the above addresses or to Lincoln Ashida, Corporation Counsel at Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Suite 325, Hilo 96720. Phone: (808) 961-8304, extension 118, or via email at Lashida@co.hawaii.hi.us .

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County Seeks Applicants for Public Access, Salary Commission Vacancies

The County of Hawai`i is seeking civic-minded applicants to fill vacancies on County commissions. Citizens have the opportunity to serve on important boards and commissions that make decisions which affect the quality of life on our island, and determine the future for generations to come.

The following commissions currently have vacancies:

· Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission: District 3 vacancy (represented by Council member J Yoshimoto)

· Salary Commission: Vacancies in District 4 (represented by Council member Stacy Higa), District 5 (represented by Council member Emily Naeole), District 6 (represented by Council member Bob Jacobson).

The Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission, commonly known as the “Open Space Commission,” is charged with developing and maintaining a prioritized list of qualifying lands within the County worthy of preservation, and to make annual recommendations to the Mayor and County Council regarding those properties. This commission includes nine members appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the Council.

The Salary Commission reviews and compensates all County elected officials and appointed directors and deputy directors so that their total salaries and benefits have a reasonable relationship to compensation in the public and private sectors. The Salary Commission consults with those boards and commissions which have appointing authority for department heads.

Volunteering for commissions normally takes no more than one day a month, and a few hours a month in preparation time. You will have the satisfaction of knowing you have served your community and played a part in shaping the future of our island.

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County of Hawai`i Offers Home Repair Loans

The Office of Housing and Community Development is currently accepting applications to its Residential Emergency Repair Program (RERP). This program was established in 1997 to make low-interest loans available to low-and moderate-income homeowners who are interested in repairing and improving their primary residence.

The RERP loan can be used for roof repairs, electrical and plumbing work, sewer improvements, termite treatment and damages caused by termites or wood rot and the installation of a solar water heating system.

Loans range from $2,500 to $25,000 at 3% interest. Loan payments are deferred for 15 years at which time full payment will be due. Applicants 62 years or older or with special needs may have 30% of the principal balance of the loan forgiven as a grant.

For more information or an application contact Dawnelle Forsythe at 959-4642. Application packets can also be found on-line at http://www.hawaii-county.com/directory/dir_housing.htm .

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County Accepting Applications for Elderly Housing in Pepe`ekeo

The County of Hawaii, Office of Housing and Community (OHCD) is currently accepting applications for one-bedroom units located at the Kula`imano Elderly Housing Project in Pepe`ekeo.

Occupancy cannot exceed 2 persons per unit. Eligible applicants must be 62 years of age or older and meet income requirements. The tenant’s share of rent is based on gross income of the household.

Gross annual income by household size cannot exceed:

· 1-person household $ 21,800

· 2-person household $ 24,900

Applications will be processed in the order (date & time) that they are received by the OHCD. For additional information or an application, please call Garrett at 959-4642.

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Seeking Applicants to Vacancies on County’s Boards and Commissions

The County of Hawai`i is seeking applicants from our community to the following Boards and Commissions which currently have vacancies:

1. Committee on Aging: Two vacancies; one in Kohala and one in Ka`u.

2. Arborist Advisory Committee: One vacancy (at-large).

3. Family Violence Advisory Committee: Presently not empanelled; we intend on doing so, so there are many vacancies (all at large).

4. Fire Board of Appeals: Five vacancies (all at-large).

5. Highway Safety Council: Four vacancies (all at-large).

6. Kailua Village Design Committee: Three vacancies.

7. Pension Board: One vacancy (at-large).

8. Salary Commission: Three vacancies; Council Districts 4, 5 and 6.

9. Transportation Commission: Two vacancies; Council Districts 1 and 4.

10. Veterans Advisory Committee: Four vacancies.

11. Water Board: One vacancy (Council District 8).

12. Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission: One vacancy (Council District 3).

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.

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Hisaoka Gym Repairs Update

The Ikuo Hisaoka Gymnasium, a County Parks and Recreation facility in Kamehameha Park in Kapa`au, North Kohala, sustained major structural damage during the October 15, 2006 earthquake.

Extent of the damage

The connections where several of the building’s concrete columns join the steel roof framing were compromised by a loss of concrete around the anchor bolts connecting the two components.

The earthquake also damaged much of the suspended ceiling and many of the facility’s light fixtures. Other damage included broken plumbing fixtures, cracking of walls and broken tiles.

Where are we now on the Hisaoka Gym repair project?

Here are the most recent and upcoming developments, according to the Dept of Parks and Recreation:

The project was advertised in the October 5, 2007 edition of the Hawai‘i Tribune Herald and the West Hawai‘i Today. Prospective bidders may pick up a set of plans and specifications through the Department of Public Works. Bid opening has been postponed to Thursday, November 29, 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.

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Recycling Drop-offs

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

Okay to Recycle:

· Paperboard or boxboard (cereal, tea, snack food boxes, etc.)

· Plastics #1, #2 & #5 (milk jugs, detergent bottles, yogurt cups, etc.)

· Metal cans (Rinsed tuna and cat food cans, soup cans, etc.)

· Newspapers and magazines

· Cardboard and brown paper bags (flattened)

· Mixed office paper and junk mail (No Brites)

· Shredded paper

· Phonebooks and paperbacks

NO wax-coated boxes or paper

NO food or oil contaminated materials

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

Please note: Materials taken to the Kealakehe, Hilo or the Kea‘au Transfer Stations can still be commodity-separated. Please look for signage on where to place recycled materials at these sites.

Thank you for your kokua, as always. For more information, please call 961-8554 or 961-8942.

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Redemption Centers – Hours of Operation

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

Qualifying Beverage Containers:

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

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

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

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

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

CURRENTLY OPEN	DAYS/HOURS OF OPERATION	OPERATOR

Hawi Transfer Station**	Saturday only: 8 am-4:30 pm.	ARC of Hilo
(Open Saturday only)	(closed for lunch 1:00-1:30)
Hilo, 1260 Kilauea Ave.	Tues-Sat 9am-5pm(Closed 12:30pm-1:30 pm)	Reynolds Recycling
Hilo, 30 Maka’ala Street	Mon thru Fri: 8:00am-5:00pm