FEATURE ARTICLE

·         Opening the Mamalahoa Highway Bypass, Northern Section -- Fact Sheet

·         County Plans $5.5 Million in Improvements to Support Bypass Opening

COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

·         Employers Must Switch to New Employment Eligibility Verification Form -- USCIS

·         Auto Registration Office to Change Hours Effective February 1

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

·         Water Conservation Notice in Hakalau, Wailea Areas

·         New Winter Hours for County Transfer Stations Effective January 2 – March 1

·         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 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

·         Job Announcements

COMMUNITIES IN ACTION

·         Hawai`i HomeOwnership Center Holds Free Orientations in Hilo and Kona

·         Big Island Film Office Visiting Artists Program Presents Filmmaker Alanis Obomsawin Feb 1

·         Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival Saturday, February 2

·         Officer of the Month of February Luncheon on Wednesday, February 6

·         11^th Annual American Heart Walk & Health Fair in Hilo Saturday, February 9

·         Kona Town Meeting Features Vision for Old Kona Airport Park Tuesday, February 12

·         Kohala Center Lecture Series on Hawaiian Culture and Traditions

·         Community Emergency Response Training Course in Kohala Starts Saturday, March 1

·         Healing Our Island Community Fund Mini-Grants Available

·         High-Quality Mulch Available at Kealakehe Transfer Station

·         Check Out our County’s Community Development Plan Website

·         Water Dept Earthquake Impact Repairs Information Available Online

TRAFFIC ALERT

·         Signs and Markings Projects

·         Ka‘apahu Road Closed Weekdays Jan 28 through Feb 6 for Tree Cutting

UPCOMING EVENTS

HAWAII COUNTY WEBSITE

WE VALUE YOUR FEEDBACK

TO ADD OR REMOVE YOUR NAME

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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FEATURE ARTICLES

Opening the Mamalahoa Highway Bypass, Northern Section -- Fact Sheet

The following is a brief fact sheet provided by the Department of Public Works on the northern section of the Mamalahoa Highway bypass, a major improvement project in Kona.

 

What is the Mamalahoa Highway bypass?

The bypass is a north-south, two-lane roadway under construction in Kona midway between the shoreline and Mamalahoa Highway.  It is intended to give motorists an alternate route between North and South Kona.

 

Where is the bypass?

The bypass starts at the end of Ali`i Drive in Keauhou and will run approximately 5.4 miles to the Napo`opo`o Junction in South Kona.

 

What is the northern portion of the bypass?

The northern portion of the Mamalahoa bypass starts at the end of Ali`i Drive and runs approximately three miles to the bottom of Haleki`i Street in Kealakekua’s Kona Scenic subdivision.

 

When will the bypass open?

The County plans to open the northern portion of the bypass in summer 2008 on a trial basis.  Traffic would be restricted to one-way travel for southbound traffic between the hours of 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. weekdays only, except holidays.

 

What needs to happen before the bypass can open?

The County must amend two County ordinances to allow a portion of the bypass to open prior to the completion of the project.

 

How does the County propose to address safety concerns from residents at both ends of the northern stretch of the bypass?

The County proposes a number of improvements prior to the opening of the northern portion of the bypass. 

 

The improvement are estimated to take six to eight months to complete, at an estimated cost of $500,000. 

 

The improvements include:

• Speed humps before Mamao and Muli streets in Kona Scenic Subdivision, appropriately spaced to reduce noise, and maintain the 25 mph speed limit.  And 3-D speed humps between Mamao and Muli Streets.
• Construct a raised intersection with a mini-traffic circle at Mamao and Muli Streets.
• Install a smart sign at the steeper sections of Haleki`i.  A smart sign informs the drivers of their speed and records it so the police can determine the time of day if speeding occurs.
• Lengthen the existing right and left turn lanes at the intersection of Haleki`i and Mamalahoa Highway.
• Accelerate on-street parking restrictions along the makai side of Mamalahoa Highway in Kainaliu from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Special duty officers will be stationed at the entrance to Kaleiopapa Street in Keauhou and at the Haleki`i Street and Mamalahoa bypass intersection in Kealakekua during the same hours the bypass is open.
• Adjusting the timing of the traffic signal at Kuakini Highway and Kamehameha III to move more cars from Kamehameha III onto Kuakini Highway (scheduled for the first quarter of 2008).
• Three-way stops at three intersections along Ali`i Drive – Lunapule, Royal Poinciana and Kaleiopapa.  This is a prelude to installing traffic signals.
• Re-stripe a center lane along sections of Ali`i Drive from Kamehameha III Road at Kona County Club to 500 feet beyond Kaleiopapa.  One section along this road isn’t wide enough for a left turn center lane.
• Pave an eight-foot wide pathway for pedestrian and biker use on the makai side of Ali`i Drive.
• Two speed tables will be placed at each golf cart crossing on Kaleiopapa this summer.  Speed tables slow traffic by creating a vertical deflection in the roadway.  Generally, speed tables provide a gentler ride and are preferred by emergency response providers.
• Public Works will ask Hawai`i County Council to consider a request that construction trucks not be permitted within the Kona Scenic Subdivision; instead they would use Yamagata Road.

 

Other proposed long-term safety measures, estimated to cost $5 million include:

• Traffic signals at Lunapule, Royal Poinciana and Kaleiopapa.
• A fourth traffic signal and crosswalks in all directions are planned at Hualalai Road and Ali`i Drive.
• Smart signs may be installed along key locations between Kailua and Keauhou.

 

How will traffic flow be affected by opening the northern portion of the bypass?

The County anticipates 20 percent of the current traffic flowing through Kainaliu Town (or approximately 150 vehicles) will divert to Haleki`i for the first several months, between the hours of 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.  Once motorists experience the good and bad points of using Haleki`i Street as an alternate route, some will revert back to using Mamalahoa Highway through Kainaliu and the traffic on Haleki`i Street will level off.

 

Has the County been working to improve traffic flow on Mamalahoa Highway in South Kona?

Yes, the County has been working to improve the roadway to allow for better traffic flow during peak hours.  Improvements were done between Kiloa Road and Captain Cook Road along Mamalahoa Highway.  These improvements—left turn lanes, sheltered left turn pocket lanes, drywells, Americans with disabilities Act-approved (ADA) ramps at existing and new sidewalks and new street lights between Kinue and Captain Cook Roads—are aimed at improving the flow of traffic for residents living in North and South Kona.

 

Here’s a roundup of improvements for Kealakekua and Kainaliu:

• The Oshima Public Parking Lot in Kainaliu, with 15-stall parking, is open to the public.
• The Takeshi Kamigaki Public Parking Lot with 12 stalls, located between Orchid Isle Café and Hawai`i Community Federal Credit Union in Kealakekua, is open.
• Traffic restrictions at Honalo Junction continue during 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. travel hours.
• A bus stop is now located fronting Kona Hongwanji Mission in Kealakekua.
• A two-way, left-turn center lane provides a refuge lane for left turns in and out of Nani Kupuna Place and Ke`eKe`e Street.
• Repainted five crosswalks, along with the construction of ADA accessible ramps, at Nani Kupuna Place, Ke`eKe`e Street, Waenaoihana Loop, Haleki`i Street and Haukapila Street.
• A new streetlight, crosswalk and a sheltered island on Mamalahoa Highway provide added safety for pedestrians crossing from Central Kona Union Church to the Sunshine Preschool in Kealakekua.
• New sidewalk from the entrance of the Kamigaki Market to First Hawaiian Bank; Americans with Disabilities Act-approved (ADA) ramps at existing and new sidewalks.
• Two-way left-turn center lane extends from Kamigaki Market to First Hawaiian Bank and extension of the existing sidewalk from the entrance of Central Kona Union Church to the entrance of Kealakekua Public Library.  No Parking signs installed on the mauka and makai sides of Mamalahoa Highway—fronting Kealakekua Public Library, Kamigaki Market and the Central Kona Union Church office.

 

Next Improvement project for Kainaliu is:

Constructing a third parking lot at Aloha Theatre and two turnarounds; one at each end of Kainaliu town to prevent “U turns” in the middle of the road.  This is part of the extended improvements to Kainaliu that include upgrading the sidewalks to be ADA compliant.

 

For further information, please call Department of Public Works at 808) 961-8321 Monday-Friday 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or (808) 557-6437 after hours.

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County Plans $5.5 Million in Improvements to Support Bypass Opening

The County Department of Public Works is proposing a multi-million dollar improvement package for Ali`i Drive and Haleki`i Street in Kealakekua in anticipation of opening the Mamalahoa Highway bypass to the public on a trial basis this summer.

 

The Mamalahoa Highway bypass is a two-lane road that is being constructed midway between the shoreline and Mamalahoa Highway to give motorists an alternate route between North and South Kona. The Department of Public Works believes opening the northern portion of the Mamalahoa bypass, from the end of Ali`i Drive in Keauhou to the bottom of Haleki`i Street in Kealakekua, will reduce traffic volume for southbound travel on Mamalahoa Highway.

 

The Hawaii County Planning Commission and ultimately the Hawaii County Council will be asked to amend the County ordinances to allow the use of Haleki`i Street in Kealakekua, in conjunction with the opening of the northern portion of the Mamalahoa bypass in summer 2008.

 

The proposed short-term improvements to Ali`i Drive and Haleki`i would take approximately six to eight months to construct. This includes stop signs at key intersections along Ali`i Drive and adding two-way center lanes between Kamehameha III Road and Kaleiopapa, upgrading existing traffic signals at Kamehameha III Road and Kuakini Highway and at the top of Haleki`i Street, widening of shoulders and traffic calming devices. Eventually, a traffic signal would be installed at the “T” intersection of Ali`i Drive and Kaleiopapa Street (entrance to the bypass).

 

Long-term mitigation measures, taking between three to five years to complete, include traffic signals at Royal Poinciana, Lunapule and Hualalai; a pedestrian and bike path on the mauka side of Ali`i Drive, installing several smart signs and resolving encroachment issues. The traffic signal at the intersection of Haleki`i and Mamalahoa is also slated to be upgraded. Total cost for the proposed short-term improvements and long-term mitigation measures is estimated by the County at $5.5 million.

 

During the trial period this summer, bypass traffic would be restricted to one-way travel, headed south, between the hours of 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., weekdays only, excluding holidays.

 

Traffic will be monitored daily by Public Works, and special duty police officers will be present at the bypass entrance.  Aside from those specific hours or during an emergency, the bypass will be closed and gated.

 

For further information, please call Department of Public Works at 808) 961-8321 Monday-Friday 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or (808) 557-6437 after hours.

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COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

Employers Must Switch to New Employment Eligibility Verification Form -- USCIS

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) have announced that all employers must transition to the revised Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9) no later than December 26, 2007.

 

All employers are required to complete a Form I-9 for each employee hired in the United States.

 

All U.S. employers are responsible for completion and retention of Form I-9 for each individual they hire for employment in the United States. This includes citizens and noncitizens. On the form, the employer must verify the employment eligibility and identity documents presented by the employee and record the document information on the Form I-9.

 

The revised version of Form I-9, which includes the revision date (Rev. 06/05/07)N printed on the lower right corner of the form, is now the only version valid for use.

 

In a November 7, 2007 announcement, USCIS explained that employers would have 30 days, beginning on the date the Federal Register notice is published, to transition to the revised form.  Accordingly, effective Dec. 26, 2007, employers who fail to use the revised form will be subject to applicable penalties.

 

Where to File Form I-9:

Do not file Form I-9 with U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or USCIS.  Form I-9 must be kept by the employer either for three years after the date of hire or for one year after employment is terminated, whichever is later.  The form must be available for inspection by authorized U.S. Government officials (e.g., Department of Homeland Security, Department of Labor, Office of Special Counsel).

 

Both the revised form and the Handbook for Employers, Instructions for Completing the Form I-9 are available online at www.uscis.gov .  To order forms, call USCIS toll-free at (800) 870-3676.  For forms and information on immigration laws, regulations, and procedures, call the National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283.  For information you may also call the County of Hawai`i Immigration Information Office at 961-8220.

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Auto Registration Office to Change Hours Effective February 1

The County of Hawai`i Finance Department, Treasury Division would like to inform the public that the Auto Registration office in Hilo and Kona will be changing their hours effective February 1, 2008. 

 

The new hours will be 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Monday through Friday, effective February 1, 2008.  (Up to that date, the hours will be from 7:45 am - 4:30 pm Monday through Friday.)

 

The Hilo Auto Registration office is located at 101 Pauahi Street, Suite #5 and the Kona office is located at 75-5751 Kuakini Hwy, Suite #107.  For further information, please call 961-8351 in Hilo and 327-3543 in Kona.

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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.

 

(Late registration 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 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). 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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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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New Winter Hours for County Transfer Stations Effective January 2-March 1

Due to the shorter winter hours of daylight and concerns for the safety of all our residents, all County of Hawai`i Solid Waste Transfer Stations, except the Hilo Transfer Station, will close at 6:00 pm beginning Wednesday, January 2, 2008.  New hours of operation will be from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.   (Hilo Transfer Station hours will remain 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)

 

Please note that the Big Island transfer stations are permitted for collection of household refuse only.  Commercial haulers and residents with large loads need to take their refuse to the South Hilo or West Hawai`i Sanitary Landfills.

 

We appreciate your cooperation.

 

For more information call Bobby Gonsalves, Solid Waste Operations Superintendent at 961-8514.

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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	Reuse Area under construction 12/06/07
Wai`ohinu Transfer Station	6	Earthquake repairs, bid opening 12/18/07, No Bid; To be revised and re-bid
Ka`auhuhu Transfer Station	9	Glasscrete Pad, bid awarded 12/20/07
For further information, please contact Terin Gloor, Solid Waste Civil Engineer at 961-8058.

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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: Vacancies in District 1 (represented by Council member Dominic Yagong) and 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. Fire Commission: Two vacancies; Council Districts 3 and 5.

 

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:

 

Parks and Recreation has just received the pre-final drawings for Phase II from our architect via email and will now review them.  Every effort will be made to get the plans reviewed and returned to the architect for completion of the final plans in an expeditious manner.

 

On Phase I, the apparent low bidder's bid was accepted by the County and the contract was forwarded to Constructors Hawaii, Inc. on January 8, 2008 for review and signature.  Upon return of the signed document, the contract will be executed by the County and a pre-construction meeting must be scheduled and a notice to proceed date determined.  Constructors Hawaii, Inc. recently picked up the building permit for the project.

 

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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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

Hawaii HomeOwnership Center Holds Free Orientations in Hilo and Kona

The Hawaii HomeOwnership Center is a non-profit organization that provides homebuyer education and counseling to help people prepare to buy a home.  Our services are available to anyone interested.

 

Come to a free orientation and learn more about us.

 

Office of Housing & Community Development

1990 Kinoole Street, Suite 104, Hilo

• Feb 13 or 28, 6:00 p.m.
• March 12 or 27, 6:00 p.m.

 

Mayor’s Office (West Hawai`i)

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

• Feb 5 or 20, 6:00 p.m.
• March 4 or 19, 6:00 p.m.

 

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

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Big Island Film Office Visiting Artists Program Presents Alanis Obomsawin

Alanis Obomsawin, a member of the Abenaki Nation, is one of Canada’s most distinguished documentary filmmakers.  She will be appearing in person on Friday, February 1 at 6 pm at the Palace Theater in Hilo to host a screening of several of her films.

 

John Mason. Big Island Film Commissioner, will moderate a Q&A discussion with Ms. Obomsawin after the screening of her films.  General admission will be $5; students will be admitted free.

 

Obomsawin began her career as a singer, writer, and storyteller, but dove into filmmaking in 1967 at the invitation of the National Film Board of Canada.  Since then, Obomsawin, driven by the need for her people’s voices to be heard, went on to direct, produce, and write over 20 uncompromising documentaries on issues affecting Canadian Aboriginal people.  Her films have received more than 30 awards at international film festivals, and she has been honored by receiving two of Canada’s most prestigious awards, the Order of Canada and the General Governors Award.

 

Three of Obomsawin’s most recent and acclaimed films will be shown on February 1.  “Gene Boy Came Home,” (2007) deals with the ugliness of war as seen through the eyes of one survivor, Vietnam War veteran Eugene “Gene Boy” Benedict, from her home community of Odanak.

 

The people of Odanak and their stories are the subject of her award winning 2006 feature documentary “Waban-Aki: People from Where the Sun Rises.”  “Sigwan,” (2005) the third film to be shown, focuses on a young girl who is aided by the animals of the forest.

 

Alanis Obomsawin was born in New Hampshire on Abenaki Territory.  When she was 6 months old her mother returned to the Odanak reserve north east of Montreal where Alanis lived until she was 9.  Theophile Panadis, her mother’s cousin, initiated Alanis into the history of the Abenaki Nation and taught her many songs and legends.  Obomsawin and her parents then left Odanak for Trois Rivieres, where they were the only Native family.  Cut off, speaking little French and no English, she held fast to the songs and stories she had learned on the reserve.

 

This program is the first in a planned series of appearances and presentations by Visiting Artists sponsored by The Big Island Film Office. The event is also supported by the Friends of the Palace Theater.  This program and presentation by Alanis Obomsawin, a leading voice in Canadian Native Peoples’ affairs for over 40 years, will be of interest to anyone interested in understanding different cultures, societies, and histories; in gaining insight into the issues and challenges facing aboriginal and indigenous peoples; and in documentary filmmaking and visual media and literacy.

 

Please call the Big Island Film Office at 808 327-3663 for more information.

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Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival Saturday, February 2

You’ll be “tickled pink” Saturday, Feb. 2 at the 15th annual Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival.

 

The annual event showcases the blooming of Waimea’s historic cherry trees and the Japanese tradition of viewing them known as hanami.  In conjunction with the Paniolo Preservation Society’s Waiomina Centennial Celebration, the 2008 festival commemorates the Big Isle’s cowboys of Japanese descent.

 

A host of activities will span eastward from the Parker Ranch Historic Homes on Mamalahoa Hwy 190 to the Hawaiian Homestead Farmer’s Market on Hwy. 19.  Look for pink banners identifying site locations.  Enjoy Japanese and multicultural performing arts, a host of craft fairs, plus demonstrations of bonsai, origami, sumie, calligraphy, tea ceremony and mochi pounding.  The festival offers free shuttle transportation among venues. 

 

For more information, please call Roxcie Waltjen of the Department of Parks & Recreation’s Culture and Arts Division at 961-8706.

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Officer of the Month of February Luncheon on Wednesday, February 6

The Officer of the Month Luncheon for the month of February will be held on February 6th, 2008 at 12:00 noon, and will feature Officer Erich Jackson as the honoree.   The luncheon will be held at King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, with Felicity Johnson as sponsor. 

 

Officer Jackson is being recognized for his efforts in recovering drugs, stolen jewelry and other stolen property during an investigation of a suspicious vehicle on Kuakini Highway which resulted in the arrest of the driver, who was on parole and who had just given methamphetamine to his 16 year old passenger.

 

Featured speaker Kauila Ho will discuss the work of the West Hawai`i Fatherhood Initiative which is a program of the Family Support Services of West Hawaii.  This program supports fathers in understanding how babies develop, and stresses the importance of parenting with love to create strong and healthy families.

 

The Kona Crime Prevention Committee is an organization that encourages community involvement in aiding and supporting the Kona Police Department in their efforts to prevent crime, deter potential criminals and enforce the law.   Membership is open to organizations or individuals wishing to further the purposes of the Kona Crime Prevention Committee and is effective upon payment of dues.  

 

The public is invited to attend the Officer of the Month luncheons held on the first Wednesday of each month.   Cost of the luncheon is $20.  Parking in the King Kamehameha hotel lot is an additional $2.  Reservations are required. Please call Liz Holley at 326-7787.

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11th Annual American Heart Walk & Health Fair in Hilo Saturday, Feb 9

The 11^th Annual American Heart Walk & Health Fair will take place in Hilo on Saturday, February 9, 2008.

This is our premiere fundraising event to support education, research and community programs here on the Big Island while promoting walking as a means to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

 

Registration for the walk opens at 6:30 a.m., and the walk starts at 8:00 a.m.  The route starts & finishes at Liliuokalani Park.

 

The Health Fair, also at Liliuokalani Park, runs from 7:00a.m.-11:00a.m.  There will be free health screenings, keiki games, healthy refreshments and great entertainment.

 

Walkers may choose either the shorter route, which is approximately 3.2 miles, or the longer one which continues down Kamehameha Avenue and is just over 4 miles.

 

Get your friends, family and co-workers together to form a team, have a good walk and enjoy a great morning at Liliuokalani Park.

 

Please park at the Afook/Chinen Civic Center, then either walk or take the free shuttle bus to Liliuokalani Park.

 

For more Information, please call the American Heart Association Hilo at 961-2825.  You may also register online at: www.heartwalk.kintera.org/hilohi .

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Kona Town Meeting Features Vision for Old Kona Airport Park February 12

Our community’s vision for the old Kona airport park is the subject of the Kona Town Meeting on Tuesday, February 1 at 6:00 pm.  Now that the State of Hawai`i has transferred the old Kona airport land over to Hawai`i County, the question is: what should be done with the land to create a recreational park that everyone can enjoy?

 

Please come listen and participate in the discussion of how the old Kona airport land can be transformed into a wonderful park with facilities for all interests at the upcoming Kona Town Meeting on Tuesday, February 12 at the Makaeo Pavilion at the old Kona airport.

 

WHEN:`         Tuesday, February 12 at 6:00 pm.

WHERE:       Makaeo Events Pavilion, at the old Kona airport.

 

Speakers will include  Maryanne Maigret, DLNR archaeologist; Elaine Watai, Kealakehe Neighborhood Watch; Betty DeRoy, Friends of Fitness; Jerry Halverson, Kai'opua Canoe Club; Tim Rude, West Hawaii Inline Hockey; Pat Engelhard, Director of Parks and Recreation of Hawai`i County  with Deac de Camp, Maintenance Division Superintendent for West Hawai`i; Bobby Command of West Hawai`i Today regarding volleyball; Kelly Drysdale and Sandy Caldwell, Kona Community Tennis Center; Jesse Wheeler, Bill Hensley, Chris Senn --Skateboard Park and Pavilion Restoration; Fred Housel for Community Enterprises. 

 

Councilmember Angel Pilago will provide a Council update.

 

Kona Town meetings are presented by Community Enterprises, a non-partisan, non-profit organization, to provide vital information on community concerns to Kona residents.

 

Light refreshments will be served.

 

For more information, please contact  Denny Coffman at 322-5076 or Fred Housel at 331-8602.

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Kohala Center Lecture Series on Hawaiian Culture and Traditions

The public is invited to a series of free lectures in the New Year, celebrating what it means to be Hawaiian. Speakers share their perspectives on a variety of topics, ranging from the Hawaiian lunar calendar to the ecology of the Northwest Hawaiian Islands.

 

All lectures are offered twice: once in West Hawaii and once in East Hawaii, affording Island residents two opportunities to attend. The schedule for January through April 2008 is as follows:

 

Speaker: KALEI TSUHA

Topic:  Kulana Mahina: The Hawaiian Lunar Calendar

• HILO: UH Hilo, Room to be determined (TBD)
• Date/Time: January 28, 2008, 12:00 - 1:30 pm

 

Speaker: SCOTT KEKUEWA KIKILOI

Topic:  Northwest Hawaiian Islands

• KONA: Outrigger Keauhou Beach Hotel, Kahaluu Ballroom
• Date/Time: February 15, 2008, 5:00 - 6:30 pm

 

• HILO: UH Hilo, Room to be determined (TBD)
• Date/Time: February 19, 2008, 12:00 - 1:30 pm

 

Speaker: RUBELLITE KAWENA JOHNSON

Topic:  Hawaiian Perspective of the Environment & Kumulipo

• KONA: Outrigger Keauhou Beach Hotel Royal Garden
• Date/Time: March 1, 2008, 10:00 - 11:30 am

 

• HILO: UH Hilo, Room to be determined (TBD)
• Date/Time: March 3, 2008, 12:00 - 1:30 pm

 

Speaker: JONATHAN OSORIO

Topic:  Kauikeaouli, Kamehameha III

• KONA: Outrigger Keauhou Beach Hotel, Kahaluu Ballroom
• Date/Time: March 14, 2008, 5:00 - 6:30 pm

 

• HILO: UH Hilo, Room to be determined (TBD)
• Date/Time: March 17, 2008, 12:00 - 1:30 pm

 

Speaker: KEPA MALY

Topic:  Historical Maps, Documents & Images

• KONA: Outrigger Keauhou Beach Hotel, Kahaluu Ballroom
• Date/Time: April 18, 2008, 5:00 - 6:30 pm

 

• HILO: UH Hilo, Room to be determined (TBD)
• Date/Time: April 21, 2008, 12:00 - 1:30 pm

 

These lectures are part of the Puana Ka 'Ike (Imparting Knowledge) Lecture Series sponsored by Bishop Holdings Corporation/Kamehameha Investment Corporation, The Kohala Center, Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort, Hawaii Tourism Authority, the University of Hawaii at Hilo Kipuka Hawaiian Student Center, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and The University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program.

 

For more information, visit http://learning.kohalacenter.org/?page=Puanaka  or contact Joy Cunefare at 322-0088, ext. 106.

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Community Emergency Response Training Course in Kohala Starts March 1st

Learn about emergency response procedures and understand your role and function in the event of a major disaster as a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) participant.  A training course in Kohala will take place on four Saturdays starting March 1.

 

The training is sponsored by the Hawai`i County Fire Department, the Department of Research and Development and the Civil Defense Agency.

 

WHEN            Saturdays: March 1, 8, 15 and 29, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

WHERE         Kohala High School Cafeteria

 

There are practical reasons for taking a CERT training course in your neighborhood:

• Your neighborhood may be on its own during the early stages following a major disaster.
• After a major disaster, citizens will volunteer to help. Without proper training these people can expose themselves to potential injury, and even death.
• Experience has shown that basic training in emergency response and rescue skills improves the ability of citizens to survive until first responders or other assistance arrives.

 

For more information, please visit www.hcrc.info or contact Frecia Basilio at the Hawaii County Resource Center, Department of Research & Development at:Phone: 808-961-8085, Fax: 808-935-

 

To register, please email: fbasilio@co.hawaii.hi.us

 

The County of Hawai`i is committed to providing access to our activities without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, or disability.  Please contact HCRC to request a reasonable accommodation. To obtain a sign language interpreter or materials in an alternate format in time for the meeting, please submit your request five working days prior to the meeting.

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