FEATURE ARTICLE

·         Going Home – An Initiative to Reintegrate Inmates into our Community

COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

·         Community Training in Homeland Security in Waikoloa February 7-8

·         Open Space Commission’s 2007 Annual Report to Mayor Now Available

·         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

·         Free COMPASS Test Prep Classes at HawCC February 5 through March 13

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

·         Positive Coaching Alliance Workshop for High School Athletes 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

·         Shakuhachi Grand Master to Perform at Event Honoring the Jizo in Hawai`i

·         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 Tree Cutting Work Postponed due to Poor Weather Conditions

UPCOMING EVENTS

HAWAII COUNTY WEBSITE

WE VALUE YOUR FEEDBACK

TO ADD OR REMOVE YOUR NAME

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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FEATURE ARTICLES

Going Home – An Initiative to Reintegrate Inmates into our Community

The following article is a brief introduction to a program in Hawai`i County to help ex-offenders reintegrate back into the community following release from prison. These inmates are from our community and will return to our community.  Therefore, it is in everyone’s interests that they be successful.  Without intervention, the recidivism rate for the incarcerated is more than 50% in Hawai`i.

 

In August 2004, Mayor Harry Kim called on workforce development, housing, transportation, training and education officials to work together on addressing workforce challenges.  The Mayor’s Task Force on Employment Solutions was soon established.

 

Going Home program is a key workforce initiative

 

Going Home, an initiative coordinated by the Mayor’s Task Force on Employment Solutions, is a reintegration initiative aimed at outreach, preparation and training of an under-utilized segment of our island’s workforce – the ex-offender.  This program focuses on preparing the incarcerated/ex-incarcerated for the workplace upon release from incarceration.

 

The Going Home program aims to educate employers on the hiring of this population of ex-offenders.

 

The objective is to establish a seamless, community-based reintegration system that supports all inmates, furloughees, parolees and probationers Going Home to our island communities.

 

Mission statement for Going Home

 

Our mission is to assist Hawai`i Island men and women released from correctional institutions with re-integration into community life through employment, training and appropriate supportive services.

 

Our vision is to establish transition programs that coordinate job readiness, placement and support services to the incarcerated and ex-offenders.

 

Going Home – The Building which will house the program

 

On January 23, 2008, ground-breaking took place for a new program building, on the grounds of Hale Nani.  The $200,000 building was funded by the State Legislature (with special thanks to Senators Russell Kokubun and Brian Taniguchi and Rep. Clift Tsuji).  The inmate workforce will help to build and construct the facility, which will be used for program activities for inmates and ex-offenders.

 

This building will provide space for a variety of activities that will better prepare the inmates who will be reintegrating into our community.

 

The new building will be the venue where a full spectrum of job readiness services will be provided.  Services will include but not be limited to:

• Education and Training
• Transitional and After Care

 

What kind of training will be offered at Going Home?

 

Inmates will have access to intensive education designed to address literacy and remedial occupational skills for our ex-offender population.

 

Inmates will learn practical workplace skills including:

• Life skills such as conflict resolution, effective communication, identifying barriers, self-esteem, self-confidence.
• Career goal setting – including the process of setting goals as well as stress management.
• Labor market information – including the foundation and expectations for job search, as well as how to use www.hirenethawaii.com .
• Applications – including assessment and job applications.
• Resumes and cover letters – including preparation and design.
• Interviews and thank you letters – including planning, practice and development.
• 8 Easy Ways to keep your job – including work culture and employer expectations.

 

Transitional program at Kulani Correctional Facility

 

The program at Kulani helps inmates transition back into the community following release.  Among the skills inmates can learn are:

• Financial literacy, motivational life skills, mock interviews.
• One-Stop Partnership information services available for inmates including Hire Net Hawaii orientation and job search services.
• Stress management and goal setting, Power of Play
• Attitudinal Healing.

 

Going Home members will help male and female inmates after release

 

Housing is a major concern for ex-offenders.  Going Home members are addressing the housing needs (emergency and longer-term) of ex-offenders islandwide.

 

The members provide services for transitional homes and other facilities, as well as life skills and basic everyday essentials following release (such as clothing, pots and pans, positive reinforcement.)

Among the support services are:

• After Care program needs.
• In-house residential treatment
• Enhanced support on the outside.

 

After Care for Substance Abuse

 

Going Home members advocate timely and prolonged drug intervention to remove drug abuse as a barrier to job placement.

 

The members offer the following services:

• Ongoing intervention and treatment in the community.
• Promotion of the quality and availability of community-based substance abuse treatment services for individuals and families that need them.
• Work with government and community-based groups to improve and expand existing substance abuse treatment services.
• Support free treatment referral services, linking people with community-based substance abuse services.
• Counseling, medical care, parenting instruction, family counseling, school options, job training, legal assistance and employment services.

 

Employer relations are a key part of Going Home

 

Going Home works to educate and inform employers of the benefits and virtues of hiring from this population.  Going Home members conduct employer forums, job fairs and other activities aimed at placing ex-offenders in employment.

 

Legislative support for Going Home

 

The Legislative Committee of the Going Home initiative is designed to address policy or infrastructural impediments, and advocate changes in the law to serve the needs of our ex-offender population.

 

Services include the following:

• Lobbying, tracking and introducing changes needed to meet Going Home’s goals and objectives to reintegrate this population into the community.
• Research funding sources, initiate grant writing proposals and pursue other resources.

 

For further information on the Going Home initiative, please contact Irene Nagao at 934-0342, Kenneth Rowe at 981-2860 ext 232 or Lori Sasaki at 327-4770.

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COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

Free Community Training in Homeland Security in Waikoloa Feb 7-8

The community is invited to participate in a two-day training course certified by the Department of Homeland Security entitled “Creating Vigilant, Prepared, and Resilient Communities for Homeland Security:  A Community Outreach Approach to Homeland Security” on Thursday February 7 and Friday February 8 at the Fairmont Orchid Hotel in Waikoloa.

 

WHEN:          February 7-8, 2008, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm (both days)

WHERE:       Fairmont Orchid Hotel, 1 North Kaniku Drive, Waikoloa

 

The training, taught by members of the Western Community Policing Institute, will provide an opportunity for community members to work with others to address homeland security threats at the community level. Course topics include:

·        Problem-Based Learning

·        Group Dynamics

·        Critical Thinking

·        Leadership

·        Community Policing

·        Homeland Security

·        Impact of Fear

·        Community Responsibility

·        Ethics

·        Action Planning

·        Group Presentation

 

The training is open to community members, local businesses, non-profit organizations, faith-based organizations, government officials, emergency management agencies, school groups and other groups or individuals interested in building partnerships to make our community safer.

 

The class size is limited to 60 and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

All participants must complete a registration form, which is available on the Police Department's Website. (Go to www.hawaiipolice.com  and click on "news releases"). Applications may be faxed to the address on the form and must be received by February 1.

 

Cost:  This no-cost training is supported and certified by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Grants and Training Course #AWR182. 

 

Local Contacts:

·        Captain James Sanborn – (808) 887-3080 or jsanborn@co.hawaii.hi.us

·        Lt. Andrew Burian – (808)961-2350 or aburian@co.hawaii.hi.us

 

Pre-Registration is required. Classes are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. Participants are encouraged to attend as teams of individuals from their community.  A registration form is required for each person.  Class is limited to 60.  Individual registrations must be received by February 1, 2008.

 

Please fax registration to: 

Captain James Sanborn

Hawaii Police Department

South Kohala Police Station, 67-5185 Kamamalu Street

Kamuela, Hawaii 96743

(808) 887-3080 / Fax: (808) 887-3086

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Open Space Commission’s 2007 Annual Report to Mayor Now Available

The Hawai`i County Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission’s 2007 Annual Report to the Mayor is now available to the public online.

 

The commission’s 2007 annual report is available at www.co.hawaii.hi.us/finance/ponc.htm  . Click on 2007 Report to the Mayor.  If you do not have Internet access, hard copies are available from the County Department of Finance at 891 Ululani Street, Hilo for $7.30 per copy.

 

The 64-page report contains a priority list of properties deemed worthy of preservation by the Commission.  Every year by December 31 the Commission is charged with sending to the Mayor a priority list of recommended purchases.

 

Properties on the list may be acquired through the County’s Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund, established in December 2005 to acquire lands deemed worthy of preservation.

 

In October 2007, the County of Hawai`i purchased an approximately 1.804 acre parcel of land at Waipi`o Lookout Point for $900,000 as its first purchase of qualified lands through the Public Access funds.

 

For further information, please contact  Harry Yada, Department of Finance at 961-8009.

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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, REVISED bid opening 01/29/08
Ka`auhuhu Transfer Station	9	Glasscrete Pad, work completed 01/25/08

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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Free COMPASS Test Prep Classes at HawCC Feb 5 through March 13

The County of Hawai`i and Hawai`i Community College, in collaboration with College Connections, announces free COMPASS Test Prep classes designed to improve your math and verbal scores for Civil Service police and fire tests.  Boost your confidence in your test-taking skills. 

 

The classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays, and run for six weeks from February 5 through March 13.

 

WHEN:          Tuesdays/Thursdays 5:00 pm – 7:00 p.m.  February 5 through March 13

WHERE:       OCET Computer Learning Center, Building CYE 380, Room 39, Manono Campus of Hawai`i Community College.

 

To register online, go to www.collegeconnections.org or call for more information toll-free at 1-866-233-0777.

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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: 1-877-523-9503 (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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Positive Coaching Alliance Workshop for High School Athletes Sat. Feb 2

The County of Hawaii’s Recreation Division and HIPAL invites high school athletes to a free workshop on Saturday, February 2.  The focus of the workshop is on becoming a competitor.

 

Join our community-wide effort to build a strong positive coaching culture throughout Hawai`i.  Help our youth have fun and learn important life lessons.

 

WHEN:          Saturday, February 2, 10:00 a.m.  Registration at 9:30 am.

WHERE:       The site has been changed to the County of Hawaii’s Aupuni conference center on Aupuni Street in Hilo (in the old Firestone service center location.)  The original venue was the UH Hilo Athletic Classroom.

 

Please call 961-8735 ext. 25 to reserve a spot.  Call 961-8735, extension 35 to make reservations.

 

For more information on the workshop, please click on http://www.positivecoach.org/SubContent.aspx?id=1816 or http://www.positivecoach.org/subcontent.aspx?SecID=370 .  You may also visit www.positivecoach.org .

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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