Frank Wandell

Dear Susan:
I thank you for bringing up this very touchy (especially for the Democrats) , but long over due subject. Kona could be the poster child for government neglect and abuse.


The letters and responses on the blog from the politicians are disgusting. Their tired old mantra that it would cost too much is a bogus argument.
The only duplication of costs would be for a Mayor and we certainly could afford one if we were able to prevent some of our tax dollars from being siphoned off and squandered in Hilo. ( Have you ever noticed that all projects in Hilo cost an estimated million dollars or more?) Of course, this includes "planning costs" (read political payback and graft)

At one time I spoke at length to former representative Jim Wrath and he said that in the early days of Statehood or perhaps it was when we were still a territory there was a precedent of the Big Island being split into two judicial districts and this split could set a precedent for a new county division.

You may want to contact him for more insight into this situation.
His number is 937-4171, I believe.
(Jim is very outspoken and was ousted because he was a major threat to the Old Boy Democrats.)

In confidence, I attended several meetings of the former West Hawaii Committee and found them to be far less than focused nor effective. Somehow they could not stick to the subject of two counties and kept going off on tangents like the Jones act. This is why I never joined their group, as I was invited.

In my opinion, two Counties are a must for the West side in order to get any of our many problems solved. Development is not the problem, political neglect is the true cause of 99.9% of the ills messing up our quality of life along the Kona Coast. Unfortunately the Hilo politicos use every excuse they can to cloud and dodge the issues.

In spite of what "they" say, the time for two counties has come
and with the right marketing and management it can be done.

Are you thinking of forming a new PAC? A duly registered political action committee may be what it takes to focus the effort and raise the funds to shake the trees.Consistent paid marketing will both educate and raise funds to further the cause. Most Kona businesses would probably contribute to be on a advisory board of a well planned organization.

Grassroots petitions are a big part of swaying the Honolulu politicos. A few weekend at major gathering spots would probably tell the story on how receptive the general public would be.

While I must keep a low profile I would be happy to give you as much input and moral support as possible.

Sincerely
Frank Wandell