FEATURE ARTICLE

·         Adults Need Vaccines Too – A Message from the State of Hawai`i Dept of Health

COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

·         2006 County of Hawai`i Data Book Available in Print and On-Line

·         Water Conservation Notice in Hakalau, Wailea Areas

·         Household Hazardous Waste Collection December 8 in Kona

·         Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnerships Programs

·         County Transfer Stations – Holiday Closures

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

·         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

·         County Accepting Applications for Elderly Housing in Pepe`ekeo

·         Vacancies on the County’s Boards and Commissions

·         Hisaoka Gym Repairs Update

·         Recycling Drop-Offs

·         Redemption Centers – Locations and Hours of Operation

·         Kuakini Highway Update

·         Job Announcements

COMMUNITIES IN ACTION

·         Healing Our Island Community Fund Mini-Grants Available

·         West Hawai`i Fisheries Council Holds Annual Strategic Retreat December 13

·         Kona Rotary Sponsors Kailua-Kona Community Christmas Parade Saturday, Dec 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

·         Environmental Assessment to be Conducted for Honolulu Landing

UPCOMING EVENTS

HAWAII COUNTY WEBSITE

WE VALUE YOUR FEEDBACK

TO ADD OR REMOVE YOUR NAME

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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FEATURE ARTICLES

Adults Need Vaccines Too – A Message from the State of Hawai`i Dept of Health

The following article is courtesy of Carrie Kuwada Phipps of the State Department of Health, based in Kona.  Excerpts of her article originally appeared in the West Hawaii Today newspaper.

 

Once we hit adulthood, most of us assume that we are over and done with vaccines (with the exception of our annual flu shots).  But it may be time for you to roll up your sleeves once again as experts are saying that the right vaccines can prevent illness, misery, pain and could even save your life. 

 

Vaccines protect for about 10 years

 

Experts are now realizing that neither immunizations nor infection provides lifelong protection against many of the common diseases.  The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is now saying that immunity usually wanes within 10 years.  In addition, some of the newer vaccines now available were not available when some of us were children.

 

As we age, we become more susceptible to serious disease caused by common infections such as the flu and pneumonia.  It’s time to call your healthcare provider if you can’t remember the last time you got a vaccine. 

 

The following are the diseases that adults are susceptible to and the CDC’s recommendations:

 

Diphtheria is a respiratory disease caused by bacteria and is spread through coughing and sneezing (respiratory droplets).  Symptoms include the gradual onset of a sore throat and low-grade fever.  Airway obstruction, coma, and even death are resulting complications if it’s not treated.  Diphtheria toxoid (in Tdap, DTP, DTaP, DTor Td vaccines) can prevent diphtheria.  Everyone needs protection.  If you haven’t had a booster shot in 10 years or more, or never had the initial three-shot series, you should be vaccinated.

 

Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) is a severe bacterial infection, occurring primarily in infants and children under 5 years.  It’s spread through coughing and sneezing and symptoms include meningitis, pneumonia, sepsis, epiglotittis (severe throat infection), skin infections and arthritis.  Symptoms can be serious in children under age 1, but there is little risk of getting the disease after age 5.  Complications due to Hib meningitis could result in death (1 in 20 children) and permanent brain damage in 10-30% of survivors.  Hib vaccine is highly effective at prevention.  Most over age 5 don’t need Hib vaccine but if you have sickle cell anemia, or a weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS, long-term steroid treatment, cancer treatment (x-rays/drugs), bone marrow/organ transplant, damaged/no spleen, discuss this with your physician.

 

Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver caused by hepatitis A virus.  There are potentially no symptoms and the likelihood of symptoms decreases with the person’s age.  If symptoms are present, they include yellow skin/eyes, tiredness, stomach ache, loss of appetite, or nausea.  Because young children who have Hepatitis A might not have symptoms, the disease is often not recognized until the child’s caregiver becomes ill with Hepatitis A.  It is spread through person-to-person contact, through contact with contaminated food, clothing, bed linen and other items.  Hepatitis A vaccine will prevent this disease. 

 

Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus.  There are potentially no symptoms when first infected and the likelihood of symptoms also decreases with the person’s age.  Symptoms include yellow skin/eyes, tiredness, stomach aches, loss of appetite, nausea, or joint pain.  The younger the person, the greater the likelihood of staying infected and of having life-long problems such as scarring of the liver and liver cancer.  Hepatitis B is spread through contact with the blood of an infected person or by having sex with an infected person.  The vaccine will prevent this disease.

 

Herpes Zoster, otherwise known as shingles, is a painful skin rash caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV/chickenpox virus).  One in four people who have had chickenpox eventually develops shingles.  Symptoms include pain, itching or tingling of the skin which is followed by a painful skin rash of blister-like lesions, usually localized to a small area on one side of the body (often the face or trunk).  Other symptoms can include fever, headache, chills and upset stomach.  Complications include extreme pain and very rarely can lead to pneumonia, hearing problems, blindness, brain inflammation (encephalitis) or death.

 

Shingles is a reactivation of the VZV virus and this condition is not spread through sneezing, coughing or casual contact.  Anyone who has recovered from chickenpox may develop shingles but it is more common in people 50 years old or older, people who have medical conditions that keep the immune system from working properly, or people who receive immunosuppressive drugs.  Zostavax (Herpes Zoster vaccine) can prevent this disease.  The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends a single dose of this vaccine for adults 60 years old or older.

 

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a type of virus that invades the cervical cells.  There are no symptoms when first infected but early symptoms can consist of abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods) and more rarely, discomfort during intercourse.  Infection could lead to cervical cell changes causing abnormal Pap tests, cervical cancer and death.  HPV is spread by having sex with an infected person.  The vaccine can prevent most cervical cancers and genital warts.

 

Females under 26 years of age should get the HPV vaccine if they have not completed the vaccine series.  The vaccine may also be lifesaving for older women, especially those who are divorced or in a nonmonogamous relationship.

 

Prevention is possible through vaccines

With the information and the means available in this day and age, you can prevent these infections and stay well.  Contact your health care provider to follow up on your vaccine record. 

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COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

2006 County of Hawai`i Data Book Available in Print and On-Line

The 2006 County of Hawaii Data Book, a publication of the Department of Research and Development, is now available for purchase.  This publication represents a part of the continuous effort by R&D to provide informational services to other governmental agencies and the general public.

 

This edition is the 24th in the series and is intended to serve as a convenient collection of statistics on the social, economic and political organization of the County of Hawaii.

 

The data book contains a wealth of information about Hawaii County, including such statistics as:

·        Resident population of 171,191 with a median age of 37.7 years, and 25.6% over the age of 55 years (2006);

·        1,272,618 domestic visitor arrivals with an average length of stay of 7.04 days; 324,439 international visitor arrivals with an average length of stay of 3.87 days (2006);

·        5,348 building permits issued with a valuation of $979,071,000 (2006);

·        173,786 motor vehicle registrations (2006);

·        425 persons per police officer (2006);

·        $53,487,000 floriculture and nursery product sales (2005);

·        Commercial fish landings of 3,511,979 pounds caught (2006);

·        123.32 inches of rainfall in Hilo (2005); 54.11 inches of rainfall in Kealakekua (2005);

·        40,681 waterworks consumers with a consumption of 9,913 million gallons (2007).

 

Many federal, state, county and private organizations cooperated with R&D in the preparation of this data book.  They are credited in the source references that accompany the tables to which they contributed.

 

Copies of the 2006 County of Hawaii Data Book may be purchased for $20.00 each from the Department of Research & Development located at the Puainako Center, 2100 Kanoelehua Avenue, Bay C-5, phone: 961-8366; or the Office of the Mayor, Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Hwy #103, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, phone 329-5226.  Copies may also be ordered by sending $25.00 per copy (postpaid) to the Department of Research & Development, 25 Aupuni Street, Room 109, Hilo, HI 96720-4252.

 

The 2006 County of Hawaii Data Book (as well as previous editions) is also currently available on the County of Hawaii website: http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us . 

 

For more information, please call Colette Rapozo-Yamamoto, Information Resource Specialist at 981-8345 or the Department of Research & Development at 961-8366.

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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 Collection on December 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 event will be held 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. (A prior event was held in Hilo on December 1.)

 

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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Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnerships 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:

 

·        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.

 

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).

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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
Keauhou Transfer Station	8	Installation access ramps completed 11/16/07
Kea`au Transfer Station	5	Install access ramps, 12/11/07

 

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.

 

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

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County of Hawai`i Offers Home Repair Loans

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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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 Department of Parks and Recreation:

 

The bid opening for Phase I had been postponed to December 6, 2007 at 2:00pm to accommodate delays in hazardous material reconnaissance and testing efforts.  P&R is in receipt of the hazardous materials test results and related technical specifications.  An addendum to incorporate the specifications and hazardous materials report into the bid documents is currently being prepared and will be issued shortly.

 

It is anticipated that the bid opening will be postponed upon the issuance of the next addendum to Thursday, December 13 or December 20 to allow potential bidders sufficient time to accommodate the additional scope into their bids.

 

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.**

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 http://recyclehawaii.org/HI5PurchaseRentBin.htm

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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.

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Job Announcements

Hawai`i County … a nice place to live. County of Hawai`i … a great place to work.

 

Consider employment with the County of Hawai`i because it offers: numerous positions, great benefits, provides valuable services, diverse culture, a beautiful island – not to mention warm and friendly residents.

Call the County of Hawai`i’s job hotline (808) 961-8618 or visit www.co.hawaii.hi.us  to download an application packet.

For job postings, visit our website: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/civil_serv/civ_serv.htm

Click on employment opportunities to download all of the forms.

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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

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West Hawaii Fisheries Council Holds Annual Strategic Retreat December 13

The West Hawai`i Fisheries Council (WHFC), a community-based marine advisory organization, will hold its annual Strategic Retreat for Thursday, December 13, 2007, from 6:00 to 9:00 pm at the Mayor’s Conference Room in Kailua Kona. 

 

They will be reviewing their accomplishments and successes for 2007 and planning for success in 2008.  Each WHFC committee will report its programs and describe their efforts to “develop and implement management plans for minimizing resource depletion”.

 

All of the interested ocean community is cordially invited to attend the Council meetings on the third Thursday of every month or to join one of the committees of the Council.

 

For more information, please contact Marni Herkes at 987 2171 or marnih@hawaiiantel.net .

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Kona Rotary Club Presents Kailua-Kona Christmas Parade Saturday, Dec 15

The Rotary Club of Kona presents the 23rd Annual Kailua-Kona Community Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 15.  The parade starts promptly at 5 p.m. at Kona’s Kekuaokalani Gym (near the Old Airport).