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April 25, 2008
Hawai`i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
FEATURE ARTICLE
· Mayor’s Testimony to the County Finance Committee on Waste to Energy Proposal
· Ocean View Recycling/Convenience Center Final EIS Released
COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD
· Waste Reduction Proposal Brochure is Now Available Online
· Brochure on Emissions from Kilauea Volcano Available Online
· Update on Safety of Old Laupahoehoe Road by Public Works Friday, April 25
· Kalapana Safe Viewing Program Has Daily Telephone Hotline Updates
· County Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee 2007 Annual Report Online
· County Public Works Holds Meetings to Discuss Hamakua Road Projects
· Fire Dept Sponsors Annual EMS Family Run/Walk Event on Sunday, May 25
· Hawai`i County Offers Property Tax Relief for Flood Victims
· Talk Story Meetings on Queen Ka`ahumanu Hwy Project -- Update
· Water Conservation Notice in Hakalau, Wailea Areas
· Down Payment Assistance Loans Available to First-Time Home Buyers
· Dept of Environmental Management Solid Waste Projects Update
· County Seeks Applicants for Arborist Advisory Committee Vacancy
· County Seeks Applicants for Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee
· County Seeks Applicants for Public Access, Salary Commission Vacancies
· County Accepting Applications for Elderly Housing in Pepe`ekeo
· Vacancies on the County’s Boards and Commissions
· Recycle your Old TVs and Other Electronic Waste in East and West Hawai`i
· Redemption Centers – Locations and Hours of Operation
COMMUNITIES IN ACTION
· Vulcans-Hawai`i Basketball School Applications Now Available for Summer Camp June 25-28
· Kona Outdoor Circle Annual Scholarship – Application Deadline is April 30
· Community Invited to Give Input for Mauna Kea Comprehensive Management Plan
· Hawai`i HomeOwnership Center Holds Free Orientations in Hilo and Kona
· Rainwater Catchment Workshop Series in Puna Concludes April 30
· Pahoa Springtime Jamm/2008 Battle of the Bands on Saturday, May 10
· Kona Orchid Society Mother’s Day Weekend Show & Sale May 9 and 10
· Ka Ulu Lauhala O Kona Weaving Conference May 14-18 at Kona Village
· Hawaii Green Building Conference in Honolulu May 20 and 21
· Pulama I Ke Ola (Life is Precious) Healthcare Conference in Hilo May 21-22
· Third Annual Hilo Inter-Tribal PowWow on Memorial Day Weekend May 24-26
· Kamehameha Day Festival on Wednesday, June 11 on Coconut Island
· Waiomina Centennial Celebration Events in Waimea
· 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
· County Schedules Upgrade of Ali`i Drive/Kamehameha III Traffic Signal April 26
· Got Junk Cars? County of Hawai`i Can Help
· Pohoiki Road Bypass Construction Underway; Slated for Completion in Fall 2008
· Traffic Light Installation at Mohouli and Kumukoa Streets in Hilo Underway
· Traffic Pattern Interruptions at Hilo Transfer Station
FEATURE ARTICLES
Mayor’s Testimony to the County Finance Committee on Waste to Energy
The following is a copy of Mayor Harry Kim’s testimony to the Finance Committee on April 21, 2008 on the Waste to Energy proposal. What was before the committee was a resolution to authorize the administration to enter into a multi-year contract with Wheelabrator.
The resolution will come up to the full Council on May 7.
The Honorable Dominic Yagong, Chairperson, and Committee Members
Committee on Finance
Hawai‘i County Council
County of Hawai‘i
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Re: Resolution 551-08 – Approval of Multi-Year Contract
Wheelabrator Proposal – Waste to Energy
Dear Chairperson Yagong and Council Members:
I would like to thank the County Council for its diligence in seeking public input by holding public hearings on the Wheelabrator waste-to-energy proposal. The administration has also held numerous community informational meetings to explain the proposal to the public. Presenters at the community meetings tried to ensure that questions were answered as thoroughly and fairly as possible. Like some members of the County Council, attendees had many questions that focused on the issues of cost and environment. As we know, specific questions on cost and environment cannot be answered unless we proceed with the Wheelabrator contract.
I strongly urge you to approve Resolution 551-08, to allow the contract with Wheelabrator to be executed, for the following reasons:
· Financial concerns: Upon signing the contract, Wheelabrator will proceed with the final design so a firm design/build cost can be determined. This will address many of the financial questions that cannot be answered without firm costs. This final design/build cost will be available in six months (180 days), and the work to obtain the cost will be borne entirely by Wheelabrator. After receiving the actual cost figures, the Council can terminate the contract with no obligation.
· Environmental concerns: Upon execution of the contract, Wheelabrator will be required to begin the lengthy Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process. They will also be required to begin work on an Environmental Analysis Report (EAR). This EAR will be completed within nine months (270 days) and will provide an early report on the anticipated environmental impacts of the waste-to-energy facility. The County negotiated for this non-standard report to be done so we can have information on environmental impacts as soon as possible, well before an EIS could be completed. After completion of the EAR, the Council can terminate the contract with no obligation, financial or otherwise. Note that all costs of this EAR will be borne by Wheelabrator.
· Electricity revenues: Execution of this contract will allow the County to go to the Public Utilities Commission and begin negotiating with Hawai‘i Electric Light Company to get a firm price on electricity revenues. This cannot be done without a contract in place. This is another important piece of the overall financial picture for this project and is necessary to answer the many questions that the Council and public have.
It has taken two years of hard work to get to this point in the procurement process where we have a viable proposal on the table. In addition, we have spent a large amount of money on our consultants to ensure that the County’s interests are well protected. Proceeding will give the community additional opportunities to ask questions and review the project. I cannot see any reason not to finish this process.
For these reasons, I strongly urge you to support Resolution 551-08 so that the contract with Wheelabrator can be signed and work started to come up with definitive facts and numbers. There is no risk to the County to proceed. The risk is all on Wheelabrator’s shoulders. The Council will have multiple opportunities after final costs are known and environmental impacts are studied to terminate the contract with no financial obligation. We owe it to the people of Hawai‘i to find out all the facts before making a decision.
Thank you for your consideration, and thank you for your support.
Ocean View Recycling Point/Convenience Center Final EIS Released
The County of Hawai‘i Department of Environmental Management has released, and the Mayor has approved, a Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the proposed Ocean View Recycling Point and Convenience Center. The Draft EIS was published in October 2007. The EIS is available at the Hilo, Na‘alehu, and Kailua-Kona public libraries and can be downloaded from the DEM website at: http://www.hawaii-county.com/directory/dir_envmng.htm .
This long-awaited facility will provide residents with a convenient location to recycle and dispose of their remaining solid waste and to reduce illegal dumping. The residents of the rapidly growing community of Ocean View currently must travel a minimum of 12 miles to dispose of household waste and drop off recyclable materials. Area residents have repeatedly requested the County to address this deficiency over the last 20 years.
The process of selecting a site was difficult. Few sites met a rigorous set of criteria and those that did were often met by opposition from nearby residents. The current site, located on the makai side of Highway 11 near the intersection of Iolani Street, has highway frontage and relatively few immediate neighbors. The facility itself would require approximately half of the 9-acre site, with the remainder of the area retained as a buffer.
“The County intends the facility to be a model for the ‘next generation’ of convenience centers and recycling points with an integrated design maximizing efficient use and traffic flow, and including space for future expansion of services, “ said Nelson Ho, Deputy Director for the Department of Environmental Management.
During the Draft EIS comment period, 43 communications were received. Most expressed support for the facility, but several letters detailed a wide variety of concerns, which the County addressed through design and mitigation.
The County is committed to the idea that a convenience center, if properly built and managed and adopted by the community, will not present these problems.
For further information, please contact: Nelson Ho, Deputy Director, Department of Environmental Management, 961-8083.
COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD
Waste Reduction Proposal Brochure is Now Available Online
The Mayor’s Office has prepared a brochure to provide information for the community on the County’s Waste-to-Energy proposal, and the brochure is now available online.
The four-page brochure explains the County administration’s long-standing waste management goals as:
· Maximizing recycling;
· Minimizing landfilling;
· Positive and safe use of waste that is not recyclable; and
· Reducing the amount of waste we generate.
The brochure is available by going to the County of Hawai`i’s home page at http://co.hawaii.hi.us . Scroll down to the Waste Reduction Proposal Brochure and click on the link. The direct link to the pdf file is here: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/mayor/Waste_to_Energy_Brochure.pdf .
Background
Due to the work and commitment of the State Legislature, the County Council, the Department of Environmental Management and especially the people of Hawai`i, Hawai`i Island today leads the state in:
· HI5 beverage container redemption -- 80%,
· Renewable energy for electricity generation – 31.3%.
We will continue our vigorous efforts to maximize recycling and reuse, as this can go hand in hand with waste-to-energy, and help us realize the goal of minimizing what goes into our landfills.
Global perspective
In 1999, the European Union issued a directive on landfilling of waste. The emphasis was to get to a point where unprocessed (biodegradable) waste is not allowed in landfills, only residue from incineration, which is today widely used in Europe.
“I so strongly believe in the basic principles of this EU directive,” said Mayor Harry Kim. “The major goal is not only minimizing or eliminating the use of landfills but also controlling what goes into a landfill.”
“I believe this waste-to-energy proposal is a good one for Hawai`i Island and is in full harmony with our established goals,” the mayor said.
This proposal will use our remaining waste, after recycling, in a productive manner that will:
· Reduce our dependence of imported fossil fuel for electricity;
· Help the fight against global warming because methane from landfills is a very potent greenhouse gas; and
· Help carry us to a more sustainable future.
We appreciate our community members taking the time to learn more about the Waste-to-Energy proposal that is before the County Council.
Please find out more by reading the April 2008 brochure entitled Public Information – Waste Reduction Proposal by clicking on this link: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/mayor/Waste_to_Energy_Brochure.pdf .
For more information, please contact Rene Dela Cruz at 961-8508.
Brochure on Emissions from Kilauea Volcano Available Online
An updated version of the County’s brochure on Emissions from Kilauea Volcano, dated April 2008, is now available online. It was emailed to all County Newsletter subscribers earlier this week.
The link to the brochure, which gives a brief summary of hazards and protective measures regarding sulfur dioxide (SO2) and volcanic ash emissions can be found on the lava information webpage at www.lavainfo.us . Scroll down and click on Emissions from Kilauea Volcano Brochure.
The brochure gives color-coded levels of sulfur dioxide conditions, ranging from green (trace) to purple (extreme), with recommended responses accordingly.
The volcanic conditions are being closely monitored and if any changes occur that might affect your safety, you will be informed. For further information, please call Hawai`i County Civil Defense at 935-0031 or visit the Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory’s eruption updates online, please click on http://lavainfo.us/ .
Update on Safety of Old Laupahoehoe Road by Public Works April 25
Is the Old Laupahoehoe Road safe for pedestrian use? Bruce McClure, director of the County Department of Public Works, will address this question in a public meeting at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 25 at the Laupahoehoe School cafeteria.
Closed to vehicle traffic for more than 20 years, the Old Laupahoehoe Road has become an unofficial scenic trail for pedestrians in recent years.
The October 2006 earthquakes caused extensive landslides covering major portions of the one-mile stretch. Debris has been cleared, allowing the County to assess the condition and stability of the road and adjacent slopes.
Kalapana Safe Viewing Program Has Daily Telephone Hotline Updates
Hawai`i County Civil Defense has set up a new telephone hotline to provide daily updates on viewing at the Kalapana Safe Viewing site.
The lava hotline phone number is 961-8093, which lets you know the lava viewing hours for the day ahead. The lava hotline automated message is updated every day at 10 a.m.
The Kalapana Safe Viewing program at the volcanic eruption site is a wonderful natural attraction, and the County Civil Defense Agency wants all visitors to enjoy the experience in safety and comfort.
With that in mind, we encourage visitors to prepare not only for sunny days at the lava viewing sight but also for rain. Please note that there are no shelters at the site in case of rain.
For your comfort and convenience, please prepare for rain keeping in mind any trip hazard:
· An umbrella and/or
· Windbreaker or raincoat
Visitors are also strongly advised to take the following gear for both safety and comfort:
· Bottled water (2-3 quarts or liters per person)
· Sturdy closed boots or shoes and socks
· Flashlight (1 per person) and fresh batteries
· Long pants
· Sun hat and sunscreen
· Binoculars (optional)
Visitors are allowed entry to the viewing area every day from 2 p.m., with the last vehicles admitted at 8:00 p.m. This will allow officials to ensure that everybody is out of the area by 10 p.m. The viewing area is closed between 10 pm and 2 pm. This schedule is subject to change; hazardous conditions may require changes to the schedule or closure.
Visitors are reminded to obey all the warning signs and stay within the allowed areas to ensure their safety. The newly formed lava and black sand beach are extremely unstable, and can collapse into the ocean at any time. Visitors must stay well away from the volcanic steam clouds which contain hydrochloric acid and glass particles.
Please note: There is no cell phone coverage in the viewing area.
We ask that visitors show the greatest courtesy and respect to the local residents and property owners. Please remember never to go off the road or trail, and please dispose of all trash in the garbage cans provided. Guide/interpreters will be on hand in the viewing area to provide information and assistance. For more information, please call Civil Defense at 935-0031.
For the Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory’s eruption updates online, please click on http://lavainfo.us/ .
The Big Island Visitors Bureau has created a new section of its website with all of the information we've been trying to get out to the public. Click on http://www.bigisland.org/parks/939/volcano-eruption-update .
County Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee 2007 Annual Report Online
The Hawai`i County Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee invites the public to read its 2007 Annual Report to the Mayor, which is now available online.
The 11-page report describes top projects that the Committee considers necessary to create and bike and walk friendly Hawai`i Island.
To view the annual report of the http://co.hawaii.hi.us/bc/bapac/main.htm .
This Committee, which advises the Mayor in the encouragement and facilitation of the use of bicycling and walking as a regular means of transportation and recreation, in conformance to the 1979 Big Island Bikeway Plan and the State of Hawai`i Bike Plan. This Committee is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Public Works.
County Public Works Holds Meetings to Discuss Hamakua Road Projects
The County Department of Public Works will hold public meetings in Hamakua to discuss the paving of Ochiro and Papa‘aloa roads and the safety of Old Laupahoehoe Road.
(Public Works Director Bruce McClure discussed plans to pave Ochiro and Papa‘aloa roads at the first meeting on Thursday, March 20 at the Laupahoehoe School cafeteria.)
A second meeting will be at 7:00 p.m., on Friday, April 25, at the Laupahoehoe School cafeteria to discuss the safety of Old Laupahoehoe Road for pedestrian use.
Ochiro and Papa‘aloa roads are “roads in limbo” that the County Highways Division has proposed be repaired or resurfaced, based on whether the road is currently accessible by emergency vehicles. Roads in limbo were built or planned by the State or the Territorial government. They are either existing or paper roads and are typically referred to as “government roads” or “homestead roads.”
Old Laupahoehoe Road has been closed for over ten years. The October 2006 earthquakes caused extensive landslides covering major portions of the one-mile stretch. Debris was cleared, allowing the County to assess whether the road is stable enough to reopen to pedestrian access. Originally a road for vehicle traffic, Old Laupahoehoe Road has been an "unofficial scenic trail" for pedestrians in recent years.
The cleanup cost was $172,000, of which FEMA paid 75% and the County paid 25%. This project is one of many earthquake repair projects undertaken by the County and partially funded by FEMA.
For an extensive list of roads in limbo go to: Roads In Limbo .
Fire Dept Sponsors Annual EMS Family Run/Walk Event on Sunday, May 25
In celebration of Emergency Medical Services Week, the Hawaii Fire Department is sponsoring their 8th annual EMS 5K Family Run/2 Mile-Walk/Keiki Fun Run on Sunday, May 25, 2008. The event will take place at Liliuokalani Park, and the public is invited to participate.
This year’s proceeds will benefit the Aloha Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, whose vision is a world without Alzheimer’s disease, and the Big Island’s Project Lifesaver, a program that protects the wandering and brings peace of mind to families, caregivers, and communities.
The 5K Family Run and 2-Mile Walk begins and ends at Liliuokalani Park in Hilo. The route proceeds from Lihiwai Street to the lighthouse tower at Bayfront Highway, then back along the same route to the park. The 2-mile walk also begins at the park to a shorter turn-around point and back. Both events will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 25th. A Keiki Fun Run, a non-competitive event for children ages 3 to 10, will be held within Liliuokalani Park following the 5K run.
Applications may be obtained at the Spencer Health and Fitness Center, the Fire Administration office located at Puainako Center, 2100 Kanoelehua Avenue C-5, at any district fire station, or by calling 981-8394 during normal business hours.
The entrance fee is $20 for adults, and $10 for youth, students & seniors (60+). Deadline to guarantee a shirt is May 19.
Awards will be presented following the completion of the event. All participants will also become eligible to receive random drawing prizes. Spencer Health and Fitness Center and HMSA are major corporate sponsors of the event.
The family fun run/walk will also kick off various events and displays that will continue throughout the day. The American Heart Association (blood pressure screening), Ululani Pharmacy (blood sugar/cholesterol screening), Big Island Asthma Coalition-East Hawaii (asthma awareness and education), Hospice of Hilo, Hawaii Bone Marrow, and the County of Hawaii Prosecuting Attorney’s Office (Keiki ID) will provide their services to the public.
The Aloha Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association volunteers and staff will also be on hand to assist with the event as well as to provide information about their services. For more information on the Alzheimer’s Association, please call 981-2111.
EMS Week, which is celebrated nationwide, will bring together local communities and medical personnel to publicize safety, and honor the dedication of those who provide the day-to-day lifesaving services of the medical front line. This year’s theme, “EMS: Your Life is Our Mission,” underscores the commitment and dedication of the 750,000 EMS personnel who provide an essential community service every day.
The Emergency Medical Services Week coordinators are Fire Equipment Operator /Mobile Intensive Care Technician Lance Uchida at Central Fire Station, phone: 961-8325) and Battalion Chief Jerry Lum at 883-6103.
The fun run/walk race director is Firefighter/Mobile Intensive Care Technician Jesse Ebersole at Kawailani Fire Station, phone: 959-7012.
The County of Hawaii’s Emergency Medical Services Division, a State-funded program, provides 24-hour quality pre-hospital emergency medical care and services to the residents and visitors on Hawaii. Last year, EMS responded to 15,670 calls for assistance islandwide.
To learn more about your local EMS Division, please call 961-8319.
Event organizers welcome your support of EMS. Please join this fun event with your Fire Department on May 25th.
Hawai`i County Offers Property Tax Relief for Flood Victims
Property owners with damages caused by the recent floods in November and December of 2007 and February of 2008 should contact the County’s Real Property Tax Division to apply for real property tax relief.
Who is eligible? Property owners with damage to their homes or other buildings or whose land was severely damaged by the recent floods can apply for relief. However, taxpayers currently paying the minimum tax ($100) are not eligible.
What kind of damages do not qualify for a tax reduction? Damage to items that are not now taxed, such as retaining walls, fences, landscaping and driveways does not qualify. Also, land that is not severely damaged will not be eligible.
How to apply: Application forms are available on the Real Property Tax Division website at www.hawaiipropertytax.com or at property tax offices in Hilo and Kailua-Kona. Although it is not required, applicants may submit documentation of damages with their applications. This can include photographs, contractor’s quotations, or appraisals.
What is the deadline to apply? The deadline to apply is June 30, 2008.
What happens to an application? When an application is received, property tax appraisers will visit the property to determine the extent of damages to the home and/or land. A tax adjustment for the period will then be prepared. The amount of the adjustment will be based on the reduced value from the date of the flood damage to the end of the tax year, which is June 30, 2008.
For more information: Please contact the Real Property Tax Division at:
Hilo: Aupuni Center Kona: Hanama Place
101 Aupuni Street, Suite 4 75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Suite 112
Helpline: 961-8201 Helpline: 327-3540
Talk Story Meetings on Queen Ka`ahumanu Hwy Project - Update
The public is cordially invited to a twice-monthly update on the Queen Ka`ahumanu Highway widening project every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at 7:30 a.m. at the Kona Mayor’s West Hawai`i Office conference room at Hanama Place. Light refreshments will be served.
WHEN: 7:30 a.m. Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month.
WHERE: Kona Mayor’s West Hawai`i Office conference room, Hanama Place.
Phase 1 of the Queen Kaahumanu Highway Widening involves widening the existing two-lane highway to four-lanes with a median divider from Henry Street to Kealakehe Parkway. The widened highway will alleviate traffic congestion and improve traffic circulation through Kona. The project started July 2005 and is planned for completion in December 2008.
The State Department of Transportation (HDOT) advises Big Island motorists that paving work continues from Palani Road to Makala Boulevard and next from Makala Boulevard to Police Station Road, in the two out-bound lanes. Preparation of roadway for paving from Makala Boulevard to Kealakehe Parkway began April 8, 2008. The opening of the two out-bound lanes from Palani Road to Kealakehe Parkway is expected in the summer.
HDOT staff, consultants and contractors are providing updates to the public twice a month to address any concerns. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 6 at 7:30 a.m. at the Mayor’s West Hawaii Office at Hanama Place. The general public is welcomed.
The meeting place is accessible for persons with disabilities. Persons who need special accommodations for this meeting should call 329-5226.
For more information, please contact Mr. Sterling Chow, HDOT Construction Engineer, at 933-8866 or Mr. Dennis Lee, M&E Pacific Resident Engineer, at 326-2035.
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.
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 .
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, completed |
Kea`au Transfer Station |
5 |
Emergency Tree Removal, in progress |
Hilo Transfer Station |
2 |
Contractor installing new water main for E. Hawai`i Sort Station,completed |
Pa`auilo Transfer Station |
1 |
Fence and gates installation, in progress |
Waimea Regional Transfer Station |
1 and 9 |
Sign installations, in progress |
Laupahoehoe Transfer Station |
1 |
Fence and gate installation, out to bid |
Milolii |
6 |
Concrete pad and ramp, bid awarded |
Kealakehe Transfer Station |
8 |
HI5 glasscrete pad, out to bid |
Puako Transfer Station |
9 |
HI5 glasscrete pad, out to bid |
For further information, please contact Terin Gloor, Solid Waste Civil Engineer at 961-8058.
County Seeks Applicants for Arborist Advisory Committee Vacancy
The County of Hawai`i is seeking applicants for a vacancy on the Arborist Advisory Committee.
The County wants to fill the vacancy with someone from the west or north areas of Hawai`i Island who has an interest in community beautification and the protection of island's exceptional trees.
Interested applicants can complete and submit the "Application for Hawaii County Boards and Commissions" found at the following web site: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/mayor/boards_&_commissions.htm
You may also 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 .
County Seeks Applicants for Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee
The County of Hawai`i is seeking applicants for a vacancy on the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee.
The County wants to fill the vacancy with someone who has an interest in bicycle paths, cycling and pedestrian safety on our island.
Interested applicants can complete and submit the "Application for Hawaii County Boards and Commissions" found at the following web site: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/mayor/boards_&_commissions.htm
You may also 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 .
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 .
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.
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.
The Ikuo Hisaoka Gymnasium, a County Parks and Recreation facility in Kamehameha Park in Kapa`au, North Kohala, sustained major structural damage during the October 15, 2006 earthquake.
Extent of the damage
The connections where several of the building’s concrete columns join the steel roof framing were compromised by a loss of concrete around the anchor bolts connecting the two components.
The earthquake also damaged much of the suspended ceiling and many of the facility’s light fixtures. Other damage included broken plumbing fixtures, cracking of walls and broken tiles.
Where are we now on the Hisaoka Gym repair project?
Here are the most recent and upcoming developments, according to the Department of Parks and Recreation:
The Contractor is approximately 75% complete with the replacement of the CMU wall between the kitchen and meeting room.
The Concrete Repair Subcontractor continues to prepare the cracked CMU and concrete interior and exterior walls for placement of the permanent structural patches. The Structural Engineer/Special Inspector is scheduled to review all preparation work on Tuesday, April 29 after which the actual patching work can commence if all is determined acceptable.
The Contractor completed the steel collar treatments at the two columns that were prescribed in the contract; in its review of the overall conditions after the ceilings were all removed, the Structural Engineer of Record determined that two additional collars will be required. These will be accomplished as extra work.
The Contractor continues to feel that it will be done with its work and ready for a final inspection on Friday, May 2, 2008.
Phase II is pending submission of final plans and specifications from our consultant.
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.
Recycle your Old TVs and Other Electronic Waste in East and West Hawai`i
Bring your old televisions, computer monitors and other electronic waste to drop-off locations in East and West Hawai`i.
The drop-off locations are as follows:
· East Hawai`i: Bayside Computer Shop, 108 Kalakaua Street, Hilo. Phone: 934-7748
· West Hawai`i: Kona CompuCycle, Kaloko Business Center (below Costco Parking Lot), 75-5580 Maiau Street, Bay #8, Kailua-Kona. Phone: 987-4818.
**Note: Please call the above locations first before dropping off items.
Residents may drop off the following electronic waste items for free: (Businesses: $0.55 per pound recycle fee).
· Televisions
· Computer monitors
· Cell phones and telephones
· DVDs/VCRs
· Inkjet, Laser and Toner cartridges
· Microwave ovens
· Fax machines and copiers
· Digital cameras
· Printers
· Laptops
For more information, please call 934-7748 (in Hilo) and 987-4818 (in Kona.)
This service is brought to you by the County of Hawai`i Department of Environmental Management and Recycle Hawai`i at www.recyclehawaii.org .
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.)
· &nb