Aloha Susan,
Thank you for the opportunity to respond to your query regarding dividing the County of Hawaii into two Counties. At this time I am not in favor of splitting the County. Demographics do not support it, our population density does not warrant it and we cannot afford it. I do not believe this is the right time to do it.
I would prefer to work to create one strong and healthy county; bridge our communities, and heal the rift between East and West Hawaii.
In the next 5 years we will see a shift in demographics, Kona will have a Civic Center and improved infrastructure. We will become a stronger voice in government. We can and should work to elect a Mayor from the West Side and require that certain planning issues be decided regionally.
I admire your enthusiasm and concern for improving services and attention to Kona and the west side of our island. I strongly urge you get involved in the Community Development Plan process currently underway for North and South Kona. The CDP will be adopted by ordinance and reflect the vision of those that contribute and participate. It carries the force of law and will be implemented as Kona grows. You can contact the Hawaii County Resource Center at 324-0400 for more information.
I am always open to ideas for improving our island community and I am watching and listening keenly to comments you have received regarding splitting the county. The discussions are enlightening and the information shared by our representatives as well as the general public are important.
Mahalo a nui loa,
Councilman K. Angel Pilago
District 8, North Kona
808-327-3642
www.angelcouncil.org
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