Subject: Sign Senator Boxer's petition to REDEPLOY NOW!
Here is the link to Boxer’s petition, which seems like a step in the right direction. http://boxer.senate.gov/contact/email/iraqpetition.cfm
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Ten tips for Earthquake Safety
This is interesting and makes a lot of sense. >>>> Earthquake Safety Tip -
This is totally different than what we >>>> were>>>> told:>>>> Please read this and pass the info along to your family members; it>>>> could save their lives someday!>>>>>>>>
EXTRACT FROM DOUG COPP'S ARTICLE ON THE: "TRIANGLE OF LIFE">>>>>>>> My name is Doug Copp. I am the Rescue Chief and Disaster Manager of>>>> the American Rescue Team International (ARTI), the world's most >>>> experienced rescue team.
The information in this article will save >>>> lives in an earthquake.>>>>>>>>
I have crawled inside 875 collapsed buildings, worked with rescue >>>> teams from 60 countries, founded rescue teams in several countries,>>>> and I am a member of many rescue teams from many countries.>>>>>>>>>>>> I was the United Nations expert in Disaster Mitigation for twoyears.>>>> I have worked at every major disaster in the world since 1985, >>>> except for simultaneous disasters. The first building I ever >>>> crawled inside of was a school in Mexico City during the 1985 >>>> earthquake. Every child was under its desk. Every child was crushed>>>> to the thickness of their bones. They could have survived by lying >>>> down next to their desks in the aisles. It was obscene, unnecessary>>>> and I wondered why the children were not in the aisles.>>>> I didn't at the time know that the children were told to hide under>>>> something.>>>>>>>> Simply stated, when buildings collapse, the weight of the ceilings >>>> falling upon the objects or furniture inside crushes these objects,>>>> leaving a space or void next to them. This space is what I call the>>>> "triangle of life".>>>> The>>>> larger the object, the stronger, the less it will compact. The less>>>> the object compacts, the larger the void, the greater the >>>> probability that the person who is using this void for safety will >>>> not be injured. The next time you watch collapsed buildings, on >>>> television, count the "triangles" you see formed. They are >>>> everywhere. It is the most common shape, you will see, in a >>>> collapsed building.>>>>>>>>
TEN TIPS FOR EARTHQUAKE SAFETY>>>>>>>>
1) Most everyone who simply "ducks and covers" WHEN BUILDINGS >>>> COLLAPSE are crushed to death. People who get under objects, like >>>> desks or cars, are crushed.>>>>>>>>
2) Cats, dogs and babies often naturally curl up in the fetal >>>> position. You should too in an earthquake. It is a natural >>>> safety/survival instinct. You can survive in a smaller void. Get >>>> next to an object, next to a sofa, next to a large bulky object >>>> that will compress slightly but leave a void next to it.>>>>>>>>
3) Wooden buildings are the safest type of construction to be in >>>> during an earthquake. Wood is flexible and moves with the force of >>>> the earthquake. If the wooden building does collapse, large >>>> survival voids are created.>>>> Also,>>>> the wooden building has less concentrated, crushing weight. Brick >>>> buildings will break into individual bricks. Bricks will cause many>>>> injuries but less squashed bodies than concrete slabs.>>>>>>>>
4) If you are in bed during the night and an earthquake occurs, >>>> simply roll off the bed. A safe void will exist around the bed. >>>> Hotels can achieve a>>>>>>>> much greater survival rate in earthquakes, simply by posting a sign>>>> on The back of the door of every room telling occupants to lie down>>>> on the floor, next to the bottom of the bed during an earthquake.>>>>>>>>
5) If an earthquake happens and you cannot easily escape by getting>>>> out the door or window, then lie down and curl up in the fetal >>>> position next to a sofa, or large chair.>>>>>>>>
6) Most everyone who gets under a doorway when buildings collapse >>>> is killed. How? If you stand under a doorway and the doorjamb falls>>>> forward or backward you will be crushed by the ceiling above. If >>>> the door jam falls sideways you will be cut in half by the doorway.>>>> In either case, you will be killed!>>>>>>>>
7) Never go to the stairs. The stairs have a different "moment of >>>> frequency" (they swing separately from the main part of thebuilding).>>>> The stairs and>>>> remainder of the building continuously bump into each other until >>>> structural failure of the stairs takes place. The people who get on>>>> stairs before they fail are chopped up by the stair treads - >>>> horribly mutilated. Even if the building doesn't collapse, stay >>>> away from the stairs. The stairs are a likely part of the building >>>> to be damaged. Even if the stairs are not collapsed by the >>>> earthquake, they may collapse later when overloaded by fleeing >>>> people. They should always be checked for safety, even when the >>>> rest of the building is not damaged.>>>>>>>>
8) Get Near the Outer Walls Of Buildings Or Outside Of Them If >>>> Possible>>>> - It>>>> is much better to be near the outside of the building rather than >>>> the interior. The farther inside you are from the outside perimeter>>>> of the building the greater the probability that your escape route >>>> will be blocked.>>>>>>>>
9) People inside of their vehicles are crushed when the road above >>>> falls in an earthquake and crushes their vehicles; which is exactly>>>> what happened>>>>>>>> with the slabs between the decks of the Nimitz Freeway. The victims>>>> of the San Francisco earthquake all stayed inside of theirvehicles.>>>> They were all killed. They could have easily survived by getting >>>> out and>>>>>>>> sitting or lying next to their vehicles. Everyone killed would have>>>> survived if they had been able to get out of their cars and sit or >>>> lie next to them.>>>> All the crushed cars had voids 3 feet high next to them, except for>>>> the cars that had columns fall directly across them.>>>>>>>>
10) I discovered, while crawling inside of collapsed newspaper >>>> offices and other offices with a lot of paper, that paper does notcompact.>>>> Large voids>>>> are found surrounding stacks of paper.>>>>
Spread the word and save someone's life... The Entire world is >>>> experiencing natural calamities so be prepared!>>>>>>>>
"We are but angels with one wing, it takes two to fly" In 1996 we >>>> made a film, which proved my survival methodology to be correct. >>>> The Turkish Federal Government, City of Istanbul , University of >>>> Istanbul Case Productions and ARTI cooperated to film this >>>> practical, scientific test. We collapsed a school and a home with >>>> 20 mannequins inside. Ten mannequins did "duck and cover," and ten >>>> mannequins I used in my "triangle of life">>>> survival method. After the simulated earthquake collapse we >>>> crawled through the rubble and entered the building to film and >>>> document the results.>>>> The>>>> film, in which I practiced my survival techniques under directly >>>> observable, scientific conditions, relevant to>>>>>>>> building collapse, showed there would have been zero percent >>>> survival for those doing duck and cover.>>>>>>>> There would likely have been 100 percent survivability for people >>>> using my method of the "triangle of life." This film has been seen >>>> by millions of>>>>>>>> viewers on television in Turkey and the rest of Europe, and it was >>>> seen in the USA , Canada and Latin America on the TV program RealTV.
This is totally different than what we >>>> were>>>> told:>>>> Please read this and pass the info along to your family members; it>>>> could save their lives someday!>>>>>>>>
EXTRACT FROM DOUG COPP'S ARTICLE ON THE: "TRIANGLE OF LIFE">>>>>>>> My name is Doug Copp. I am the Rescue Chief and Disaster Manager of>>>> the American Rescue Team International (ARTI), the world's most >>>> experienced rescue team.
The information in this article will save >>>> lives in an earthquake.>>>>>>>>
I have crawled inside 875 collapsed buildings, worked with rescue >>>> teams from 60 countries, founded rescue teams in several countries,>>>> and I am a member of many rescue teams from many countries.>>>>>>>>>>>> I was the United Nations expert in Disaster Mitigation for twoyears.>>>> I have worked at every major disaster in the world since 1985, >>>> except for simultaneous disasters. The first building I ever >>>> crawled inside of was a school in Mexico City during the 1985 >>>> earthquake. Every child was under its desk. Every child was crushed>>>> to the thickness of their bones. They could have survived by lying >>>> down next to their desks in the aisles. It was obscene, unnecessary>>>> and I wondered why the children were not in the aisles.>>>> I didn't at the time know that the children were told to hide under>>>> something.>>>>>>>> Simply stated, when buildings collapse, the weight of the ceilings >>>> falling upon the objects or furniture inside crushes these objects,>>>> leaving a space or void next to them. This space is what I call the>>>> "triangle of life".>>>> The>>>> larger the object, the stronger, the less it will compact. The less>>>> the object compacts, the larger the void, the greater the >>>> probability that the person who is using this void for safety will >>>> not be injured. The next time you watch collapsed buildings, on >>>> television, count the "triangles" you see formed. They are >>>> everywhere. It is the most common shape, you will see, in a >>>> collapsed building.>>>>>>>>
TEN TIPS FOR EARTHQUAKE SAFETY>>>>>>>>
1) Most everyone who simply "ducks and covers" WHEN BUILDINGS >>>> COLLAPSE are crushed to death. People who get under objects, like >>>> desks or cars, are crushed.>>>>>>>>
2) Cats, dogs and babies often naturally curl up in the fetal >>>> position. You should too in an earthquake. It is a natural >>>> safety/survival instinct. You can survive in a smaller void. Get >>>> next to an object, next to a sofa, next to a large bulky object >>>> that will compress slightly but leave a void next to it.>>>>>>>>
3) Wooden buildings are the safest type of construction to be in >>>> during an earthquake. Wood is flexible and moves with the force of >>>> the earthquake. If the wooden building does collapse, large >>>> survival voids are created.>>>> Also,>>>> the wooden building has less concentrated, crushing weight. Brick >>>> buildings will break into individual bricks. Bricks will cause many>>>> injuries but less squashed bodies than concrete slabs.>>>>>>>>
4) If you are in bed during the night and an earthquake occurs, >>>> simply roll off the bed. A safe void will exist around the bed. >>>> Hotels can achieve a>>>>>>>> much greater survival rate in earthquakes, simply by posting a sign>>>> on The back of the door of every room telling occupants to lie down>>>> on the floor, next to the bottom of the bed during an earthquake.>>>>>>>>
5) If an earthquake happens and you cannot easily escape by getting>>>> out the door or window, then lie down and curl up in the fetal >>>> position next to a sofa, or large chair.>>>>>>>>
6) Most everyone who gets under a doorway when buildings collapse >>>> is killed. How? If you stand under a doorway and the doorjamb falls>>>> forward or backward you will be crushed by the ceiling above. If >>>> the door jam falls sideways you will be cut in half by the doorway.>>>> In either case, you will be killed!>>>>>>>>
7) Never go to the stairs. The stairs have a different "moment of >>>> frequency" (they swing separately from the main part of thebuilding).>>>> The stairs and>>>> remainder of the building continuously bump into each other until >>>> structural failure of the stairs takes place. The people who get on>>>> stairs before they fail are chopped up by the stair treads - >>>> horribly mutilated. Even if the building doesn't collapse, stay >>>> away from the stairs. The stairs are a likely part of the building >>>> to be damaged. Even if the stairs are not collapsed by the >>>> earthquake, they may collapse later when overloaded by fleeing >>>> people. They should always be checked for safety, even when the >>>> rest of the building is not damaged.>>>>>>>>
8) Get Near the Outer Walls Of Buildings Or Outside Of Them If >>>> Possible>>>> - It>>>> is much better to be near the outside of the building rather than >>>> the interior. The farther inside you are from the outside perimeter>>>> of the building the greater the probability that your escape route >>>> will be blocked.>>>>>>>>
9) People inside of their vehicles are crushed when the road above >>>> falls in an earthquake and crushes their vehicles; which is exactly>>>> what happened>>>>>>>> with the slabs between the decks of the Nimitz Freeway. The victims>>>> of the San Francisco earthquake all stayed inside of theirvehicles.>>>> They were all killed. They could have easily survived by getting >>>> out and>>>>>>>> sitting or lying next to their vehicles. Everyone killed would have>>>> survived if they had been able to get out of their cars and sit or >>>> lie next to them.>>>> All the crushed cars had voids 3 feet high next to them, except for>>>> the cars that had columns fall directly across them.>>>>>>>>
10) I discovered, while crawling inside of collapsed newspaper >>>> offices and other offices with a lot of paper, that paper does notcompact.>>>> Large voids>>>> are found surrounding stacks of paper.>>>>
Spread the word and save someone's life... The Entire world is >>>> experiencing natural calamities so be prepared!>>>>>>>>
"We are but angels with one wing, it takes two to fly" In 1996 we >>>> made a film, which proved my survival methodology to be correct. >>>> The Turkish Federal Government, City of Istanbul , University of >>>> Istanbul Case Productions and ARTI cooperated to film this >>>> practical, scientific test. We collapsed a school and a home with >>>> 20 mannequins inside. Ten mannequins did "duck and cover," and ten >>>> mannequins I used in my "triangle of life">>>> survival method. After the simulated earthquake collapse we >>>> crawled through the rubble and entered the building to film and >>>> document the results.>>>> The>>>> film, in which I practiced my survival techniques under directly >>>> observable, scientific conditions, relevant to>>>>>>>> building collapse, showed there would have been zero percent >>>> survival for those doing duck and cover.>>>>>>>> There would likely have been 100 percent survivability for people >>>> using my method of the "triangle of life." This film has been seen >>>> by millions of>>>>>>>> viewers on television in Turkey and the rest of Europe, and it was >>>> seen in the USA , Canada and Latin America on the TV program RealTV.
Earthquake on the Big Island of Hawaii
Aloha All,
We drove around yesterday. Palani Road –our road to town was covered with rocks. Back hoes have been clearing the debris all day. Now the road is open in both directions.
The Hulihee Palace is totally cracked. Most of the rock walls that were dry stacked crumbled. The schools and hospital took a beating. The hospital is still closed due to falling debris. Yesterday the teachers went to school but they held the kids home so they could asses the damages and clean up.
We lost one rock wall and lots of glasses and pottery. The after shocks keep coming. We just had another one a few minutes ago.
Oahu still has parts without power.
Most of the damage was on the North part of the island. In Hawi the road cracked open and part of another road/bridge sunk in. There are about 70 bridges that still need to be inspected. Kawaihae Harbor is closed. The docks aren’t safe; the water line is damaged. The barges are being sent to Hilo for docking.
One guy was out surfing and felt a big bump in the water. He thought a shark or turtle had bumped him. He looked back at the shore and all the cars were bouncing up and down.
Another friend has large glass sliding doors and they shock right off the track and fell on to the ground. Lucky they didn’t break.
There was a horse show in Kamuela Sunday. People were unloading and warming up their horses. Before the quake the horses started bucking and ran through a crowd of people. Then the quake started and the trailers were rolling over and more horses became wild and broke free. They were running across the highway totally out of control.
The ironman race is this Saturday. Talk about another thing to compound their nerves. They are riding along the queen’s highway next to boulders larger then a car. The road to Hawi (turn around point) is partially gone in one lane. They have determined that the race will go on and the road will be ok for bikes to cross.
The mountain top above Kealakekua Bay (where they buried all of the royalty) broke free and fell into the bay. They said it was a huge explosion and all of the houses rocked.
The hotels in the Waikoloa area really rocked. The Mauna Kea hotel had huge slabs of concrete fall from a few stories up. Everyone is so thankful it happened on a Sunday. A school day would have been really bad. Most people were in bed when it hit at 7:07am.
The people here know about hurricanes and storms so they know to be prepared. Rice and toilet paper and you are good to go. The tourists on the other hand don’t have a clue what is happening and many raced to the airport to get out. (Bad idea since they were all closed down). You can either roll with it or freak out.
Being from California originally I thought I was used to the earth moving. But nothing compares to this magnitude and it just kept going and going. It felt like a full minute of rocking and glass breaking. It was probably only 20 seconds but it was like riding a wild bronco.
My hats off to Hawaii County for getting on top of everything right away. The power for the Big Island was back up in 6 hours. They kept warning us on the radio not to open the refrigerator and too conserve water. Be prepared to hunker down until they can restart the power.
The heavy rains hitting the island chain has not helped things. Last night we had about 3 inches of rain. Slamming rain and thunder most of the night.
At least my garden is watered and my car has been washed.
Take care and keep in touch,
Signed, “Shake and Bake”
Sooze
Earthquake Update from Angel Pilago
EARTHQUAKE UPDATE - STATUS REPORT
I was in Hilo at the time of the earthquake and left right away to return to Kona. I reached Kona @ 10:30 am. I was able to check on and reassure neighbors, family and friends. After surveying the Kona District and helping to restore broken water lines, I drove back to Hilo to prepare for Council meeting scheduled for 9:00 am Monday, October 16, 2006. My staff and I will be available to anyone needing assistance or numbers to call for help.
TO REPORT PROBLEMS - STRUCTURAL DAMAGE - BROKEN WATER LINES ETC.
CALL:
CIVIL DEFENSE
935-0031
IF AFTER HOURS
CALL
POLICE
935-3311
CIVIL DEFENSE UPDATES AND ROAD CLOSURE REPORTS
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/cd/message.htm
Police Liaison to Civil Defense - Major Sam Thomas
* FEMA IS IN KONA WORKING OUT OF THE POLICE STATION
* FEMA IS INSPECTING DAMAGES AND PROVIDING APPLICATIONS FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE.
* KONA HOSPITAL REMEAINS CLOSED AND PATIENTS ARE BEING TRANSPORTED TO HILO MEDICAL & KEAUHOU SHERATON
Fire Chief Darryl Oliviera
* FIRE DEPT. HELPING TO MOVE PATIENTS FROM KONA HOSPITAL TO SHERATON KEAUHOU AND HILO MEDICAL CENTER.
* AMBULANCES ARE TAKING PATIENTS TO KONA AIRPORT WHERE THEY ARE FLOWN BY C130 AIRPLANE TO HILO.
* FIREMEN IN HILO PICKING PATIENTS UP AND TAKING TO HILO MEDICAL CENTER.
* FIREMEN ALSO IN THE FIELD ASSISTING FEMA AND PUBLIC WORKS ENGINEERS TO ASSESS DAMAGES TO RESIDENCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE.
· FIREMEN USING HELICOPTERS TO CHECK OUT DAMAGES AROUND THE ISLAND.
* CAPT. COOK MONUMENT AREA UNSTABLE -
Mayor Kim's Message to Council
* MAYOR TAKING THE LEAD FOR ISLAND EMERGENCY RESPONSE
* FEMA, US ARMY, STATE AND COUNTY HIGHWAYS, DMD TRUCKING, WORKING WITH PUBLIC WORKS AND CIVIL DEFENSE TO OPEN ROADS AND ALTERNATE ROUTES.
* SENATORS INOUYE AND AKAKA ARE HERE TO MAKE SURE FINANCIAL AIDE IS AVAILABLE TO STATE OF HAWAI'I.
Mahalo to Scott Brooks, General Manager, Noe, and all the folks at Sheraton Keauhou Resort for taking in patients that had to be evacuated from Kona Hospital!
Mahalo to KAPA, KSSK, and KWXX Radio stations for giving reports all day on Sunday!
Mahalo to all the hotels and churches for their kokua, being available to people that are in need!
And, mahalo to all of you for extending the spirit of aloha.
I encourage everyone to work together and help each other out, especially at times like this.
K. Angel Pilago
Councilman, District 8
North Kona
327-3642
I was in Hilo at the time of the earthquake and left right away to return to Kona. I reached Kona @ 10:30 am. I was able to check on and reassure neighbors, family and friends. After surveying the Kona District and helping to restore broken water lines, I drove back to Hilo to prepare for Council meeting scheduled for 9:00 am Monday, October 16, 2006. My staff and I will be available to anyone needing assistance or numbers to call for help.
TO REPORT PROBLEMS - STRUCTURAL DAMAGE - BROKEN WATER LINES ETC.
CALL:
CIVIL DEFENSE
935-0031
IF AFTER HOURS
CALL
POLICE
935-3311
CIVIL DEFENSE UPDATES AND ROAD CLOSURE REPORTS
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/cd/message.htm
Police Liaison to Civil Defense - Major Sam Thomas
* FEMA IS IN KONA WORKING OUT OF THE POLICE STATION
* FEMA IS INSPECTING DAMAGES AND PROVIDING APPLICATIONS FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE.
* KONA HOSPITAL REMEAINS CLOSED AND PATIENTS ARE BEING TRANSPORTED TO HILO MEDICAL & KEAUHOU SHERATON
Fire Chief Darryl Oliviera
* FIRE DEPT. HELPING TO MOVE PATIENTS FROM KONA HOSPITAL TO SHERATON KEAUHOU AND HILO MEDICAL CENTER.
* AMBULANCES ARE TAKING PATIENTS TO KONA AIRPORT WHERE THEY ARE FLOWN BY C130 AIRPLANE TO HILO.
* FIREMEN IN HILO PICKING PATIENTS UP AND TAKING TO HILO MEDICAL CENTER.
* FIREMEN ALSO IN THE FIELD ASSISTING FEMA AND PUBLIC WORKS ENGINEERS TO ASSESS DAMAGES TO RESIDENCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE.
· FIREMEN USING HELICOPTERS TO CHECK OUT DAMAGES AROUND THE ISLAND.
* CAPT. COOK MONUMENT AREA UNSTABLE -
Mayor Kim's Message to Council
* MAYOR TAKING THE LEAD FOR ISLAND EMERGENCY RESPONSE
* FEMA, US ARMY, STATE AND COUNTY HIGHWAYS, DMD TRUCKING, WORKING WITH PUBLIC WORKS AND CIVIL DEFENSE TO OPEN ROADS AND ALTERNATE ROUTES.
* SENATORS INOUYE AND AKAKA ARE HERE TO MAKE SURE FINANCIAL AIDE IS AVAILABLE TO STATE OF HAWAI'I.
Mahalo to Scott Brooks, General Manager, Noe, and all the folks at Sheraton Keauhou Resort for taking in patients that had to be evacuated from Kona Hospital!
Mahalo to KAPA, KSSK, and KWXX Radio stations for giving reports all day on Sunday!
Mahalo to all the hotels and churches for their kokua, being available to people that are in need!
And, mahalo to all of you for extending the spirit of aloha.
I encourage everyone to work together and help each other out, especially at times like this.
K. Angel Pilago
Councilman, District 8
North Kona
327-3642
Friday, October 13, 2006
Council and Committee Meetings coming up
Council and Committee
Meetings Will Be Held In The
NEW
Council Chambers
333 Kilauea Ave, Hilo Hawaii
Ben Franklin Bldg. Second Floor
Videoconferencing Available From
Kona And Waimea Council Offices
COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE HELD ON MONDAY
COMMITTEE MEETINGS WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY
EXCEPT
PLANNING COMMITTEE WHICH WILL BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY
COUNCIL MEETING
9:00 AM - MONDAY, OCTOBER 16TH
9:00 AM STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON RESOLUTIONS
10:00 AM STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON BILLS FOR 1ST READING
10:45 AM STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON BILLS FOR 2ND READING
IMPORTANT ITEMS ON THE COUNCIL AGENDA:
ü Res. 449-06: - Pedestrian Easement in front of Kona Inn
ACCEPTS THE DECLARATION OF PUBLIC ACCESS PEDESTRIAN EASEMENTS FROM KAILUA KONA VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT GROUP, LLC, TAX MAP KEY (3)7-5-07:21 (PORTION), TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. 199042, TO THE COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I. {Assures that pedestrian public access is provided within the property to and along designated shoreline access areas.}
ü Res. 451-06 – To acquire Kawa’a Bay
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF TAX MAP KEY PARCELS 9-5-017:007, 9-5-017:005, 9-5-016:025, AND 9-5-016:006, COMPRISING APPROXIMATELY 785.161 ACRES OF LAND, COLLECTIVELY KNOWN AS KAWA‘A AND KAWA‘A BAY, IN THE DISTRICT OF KA‘Ū, PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 05-166
From Councilmember Bob Jacobson, dated September 5, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The Kawa‘a/Kawa‘a Bay area has been prioritized by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission as number one, with an 88 percent criteria score, in its report to the Mayor dated April 5, 2006 and concurred by the Mayor in Communication No. 909, dated May 18, 2006. Kawa‘a/Kawa‘a Bay was designated by the Commission as Category A: “Lands or property entitlements with high public interest, imminent needs for acquisition, and largest benefit to the general public.”
ü Res. 452-06 – To acquire Punalu’u Beach Park
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF TAX MAP KEY PARCELS 9-6-001:006, 9-6-001:011, 9-6-001:012, AND 9-6-001:003, COMPRISING APPROXIMATELY 10.195 ACRES OF LAND, ALSO KNOWN AS PUNALU‘U BEACH PARK AND ADJACENT LANDS, IN THE DISTRICT OF KA‘Ū, PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 05-166
From Councilmember Bob Jacobson, dated September 5, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The Punalu‘u Beach Park and adjacent lands area has been prioritized by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission as number five in its report to the Mayor dated April 5, 2006 with a 70 percent criteria score, and elevated to number two by the Mayor in Communication No. 909, dated May 18, 2006, citing the fact that the County park, including the pavilion, is not owned by the County government; and the importance of acquiring permanent ownership for the planning of long-term improvements and infrastructure. The Commission designated Punalu‘u Beach Park, Category A: “Lands or property entitlements with high public interest, imminent needs for acquisition, and largest benefit to the general public.”
ü RES. 474-06 – Re-negotiate Lease in Kuhio Mall for Elections Div.
AUTHORIZES THE PAYMENT OF FUNDS OF A LATER FISCAL YEAR AND MORE THAN ONE FISCAL YEAR FOR A MULTI-YEAR LEASE (1 year) of Real Property for the Office of the County Clerk-Elections Division. {Lease with HO Retail Properties I, L.P., would be for 5,000 square feet of office space located at 111 East Puainako Street, and the approximate cost per month, including general excise tax, continues to be $8,594.}
ü RES. 488-06 – Requests funds for U.H.West Hawai‘i Campus
SUPPORTS THE REQUEST OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI‘I FOR RELEASE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND FUNDS FOR THE PLANNING, DESIGN, AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE WEST HAWAI‘I CAMPUS CENTER DEVELOPMENTS. {Urges Governor Linda Lingle to release funds appropriated in the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2006 for the West Hawai‘i Campus Center Developments.}
ü Bill 328
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983
(2005 EDITION, AS AMENDED) BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER RELATING TO CONCURRENCY (adds a new chapter for the establishment of a concurrency management system and the preparation of a public facilities improvement plan to fund and maintain county-wide facilities and services)
From Virginia Isbell, Council Vice-Chair, dated August 23, 2006, transmitting the above bill.
ü Bill 329
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983
(2005 EDITION, AS AMENDED) BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER RELATING TO ADEQUATE PUBLIC FACILITIES (adds a new chapter for the identification of infrastructure and services necessary to support new development and the establishment of a policy as to when and how these improvements and services will be constructed and maintained)
From Virginia Isbell, Council Vice-Chair, dated August 23, 2006, transmitting the above bill.
· Ask that these Bills be referred to the Planning Director for administrative review and go through a Public Hearing Process to assure proper checks and balances.
ü Comm. 998.12 – Requests reconsideration of Pete Hoffmann’s Concurrency Bills
REQUESTS RECONSIDERATION OF BILL 318 (RELATING TO CONDITIONS ON CHANGE OF ZONE) AND BILL 319 (RELATING TO LARGE SCALE DEVELOPMENTS)
From Council Vice Chair Virginia Isbell, dated September 20, 2006, pursuant to Rule No. 17 of the Rules of Procedure of the Council of the County of Hawai‘i, requests the reconsideration of Bills 318 and 319.
(BILL 318)
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 25, ARTICLE 2, DIVISION 4, SECTION 25-2-44, HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION) RELATING TO CONDITIONS ON CHANGE OF ZONE.
· Bill introduced by Pete Hoffmann to address Concurrency · Adds requirements to the existing provisions within the Zoning Code to mitigate water supply and transportation impacts concurrent with proposed change of zone applications
· Change of zone applications should address how much public infrastructure is challenged by recent or anticipated growth in that area.
The requirements are proposed to be made concurrent with any change of zone in order to manage growth and coordinate delivery of government services.
(BILL 319)
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 23, ARTICLE 2, DIVISION 1, SECTION 23-13, HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION) RELATING TO LARGE SCALE DEVELOPMENTS.
· Companion to Bill 318 (above) · Adds requirements to existing provisions of the Subdivision Code to mitigate water supply and transportation impacts concurrent with development of large scale subdivisions and condominium property regimes.
· Large scale developments proposed in a particular area should be assessed considering a number of factors, including how much public infrastructure is challenged by recent or anticipated growth in that area.
The requirements are proposed to be made concurrent with development of large scale subdivisions or condominium property regimes in order to manage growth and coordinate delivery of government services.
To see Council Index – Open attachment below:
<>
For complete agenda, click on link below:
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
Written testimony should be addressed to Chairman Higa and Council Members
Email to
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
Fax to
961-8912
--------------------------------------------------------------------
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 17TH
9:00 AM FINANCE
1:15 PM ENVIRONMENT
1:45 PM HUMAN SERVICES
ü Comm. 1026 (Res. 432.06)- Require EIS for Super Ferry
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE COMMENCEMENT OF SERVICE OF THE HAWAI‘I SUPERFERRY AT KAWAIHAE HARBOR UNTIL ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS ARE ADDRESSED (requests commencement of operations be postponed pending preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement and construction of necessary improvements to adequately accommodate current harbor users and the Hawai‘i Superferry)
From Councilmember Pete Hoffmann, dated August 17, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The key points in the resolution are 1) Kawaihae Harbor is the only commercial harbor on the west side; 2) Kawaihae Harbor has inadequate infrastructure to accommodate existing users; 3) there is no master plan to deal with aging harbor facilities is proposed by the State Department of Transportation; 4) Hawai‘i Superferry (HSF) operations will result in displacement of existing space occupied by Young Brothers and may result in reduction of service and possible discontinuance of its less than full container load service; 5) the State Department of Transportation does not plan an Environmental Impact Statement as requested by Hawai‘i County Council; 6) HSF may contribute to the spread of invasive species; 7) injury or death to whales has been raised by Pacific Whale Foundation; 8) the landing site may be inaccessible half the year due to high surf; and 9) visitors may overburden limited recreational resources.
Testimony for Human Services Committee should be addressed to
Chairman Holschuh and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
2:45 PM PUBLIC SAFETY PARKS AND REC
ü Comm. 1106 (Bill 347) – Naming of Wai’aha Beach Park
AN ORDINANCE NAMING A COUNTY RECREATIONAL FACILITY
(TMK: (3) 7-5-018:020) PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 15, HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION) (designates the name "Waiaha Bay Beach Park" for the open area park in Kailua-Kona
Testimony for Public Safety Parks and Recreation Committee should be addressed to
Chairman Bob Jacobson and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18TH
9:30 AM PLANNING
ü Comm. 1090 (Res. 465-06) – Protect Pu’u in Waimea
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE PLANNING DIRECTOR TO INITIATE A ZONING CODE AMENDMENT FOR AN ORDINANCE CHANGING THE DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION FROM UNZONED AND AGRICULTURAL (A-1a) TO AGRICULTURAL (A-500a) AT WAIMEA, SOUTH KOHALA, HAWAI‘I COVERED BY TAX MAP KEY 6-5-001:020, IN ORDER TO PRESERVE THE WAIMEA PU‘U AS CULTURAL AND OPEN SPACE RESOURCES AND TO PRESERVE THEIR AGRICULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL USES (preserves the natural beauty, agricultural and recreational uses and cultural resources of this area and protect this important open space resource for the people of the County)
Testimony for Planning Committee should be addressed to
Chairman K. Angel Pilago and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
For Committee Index Click on Attachment
<>
For Complete Committee Agenda Click on Link
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
Call our office for any questions.
Thank you for your participation!
Angel, Maile and Karen
Councilman K. Angel Pilago
Council District 8, North Kona
808-327-3642
kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
Meetings Will Be Held In The
NEW
Council Chambers
333 Kilauea Ave, Hilo Hawaii
Ben Franklin Bldg. Second Floor
Videoconferencing Available From
Kona And Waimea Council Offices
COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE HELD ON MONDAY
COMMITTEE MEETINGS WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY
EXCEPT
PLANNING COMMITTEE WHICH WILL BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY
COUNCIL MEETING
9:00 AM - MONDAY, OCTOBER 16TH
9:00 AM STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON RESOLUTIONS
10:00 AM STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON BILLS FOR 1ST READING
10:45 AM STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON BILLS FOR 2ND READING
IMPORTANT ITEMS ON THE COUNCIL AGENDA:
ü Res. 449-06: - Pedestrian Easement in front of Kona Inn
ACCEPTS THE DECLARATION OF PUBLIC ACCESS PEDESTRIAN EASEMENTS FROM KAILUA KONA VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT GROUP, LLC, TAX MAP KEY (3)7-5-07:21 (PORTION), TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. 199042, TO THE COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I. {Assures that pedestrian public access is provided within the property to and along designated shoreline access areas.}
ü Res. 451-06 – To acquire Kawa’a Bay
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF TAX MAP KEY PARCELS 9-5-017:007, 9-5-017:005, 9-5-016:025, AND 9-5-016:006, COMPRISING APPROXIMATELY 785.161 ACRES OF LAND, COLLECTIVELY KNOWN AS KAWA‘A AND KAWA‘A BAY, IN THE DISTRICT OF KA‘Ū, PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 05-166
From Councilmember Bob Jacobson, dated September 5, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The Kawa‘a/Kawa‘a Bay area has been prioritized by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission as number one, with an 88 percent criteria score, in its report to the Mayor dated April 5, 2006 and concurred by the Mayor in Communication No. 909, dated May 18, 2006. Kawa‘a/Kawa‘a Bay was designated by the Commission as Category A: “Lands or property entitlements with high public interest, imminent needs for acquisition, and largest benefit to the general public.”
ü Res. 452-06 – To acquire Punalu’u Beach Park
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF TAX MAP KEY PARCELS 9-6-001:006, 9-6-001:011, 9-6-001:012, AND 9-6-001:003, COMPRISING APPROXIMATELY 10.195 ACRES OF LAND, ALSO KNOWN AS PUNALU‘U BEACH PARK AND ADJACENT LANDS, IN THE DISTRICT OF KA‘Ū, PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 05-166
From Councilmember Bob Jacobson, dated September 5, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The Punalu‘u Beach Park and adjacent lands area has been prioritized by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission as number five in its report to the Mayor dated April 5, 2006 with a 70 percent criteria score, and elevated to number two by the Mayor in Communication No. 909, dated May 18, 2006, citing the fact that the County park, including the pavilion, is not owned by the County government; and the importance of acquiring permanent ownership for the planning of long-term improvements and infrastructure. The Commission designated Punalu‘u Beach Park, Category A: “Lands or property entitlements with high public interest, imminent needs for acquisition, and largest benefit to the general public.”
ü RES. 474-06 – Re-negotiate Lease in Kuhio Mall for Elections Div.
AUTHORIZES THE PAYMENT OF FUNDS OF A LATER FISCAL YEAR AND MORE THAN ONE FISCAL YEAR FOR A MULTI-YEAR LEASE (1 year) of Real Property for the Office of the County Clerk-Elections Division. {Lease with HO Retail Properties I, L.P., would be for 5,000 square feet of office space located at 111 East Puainako Street, and the approximate cost per month, including general excise tax, continues to be $8,594.}
ü RES. 488-06 – Requests funds for U.H.West Hawai‘i Campus
SUPPORTS THE REQUEST OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI‘I FOR RELEASE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND FUNDS FOR THE PLANNING, DESIGN, AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE WEST HAWAI‘I CAMPUS CENTER DEVELOPMENTS. {Urges Governor Linda Lingle to release funds appropriated in the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2006 for the West Hawai‘i Campus Center Developments.}
ü Bill 328
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983
(2005 EDITION, AS AMENDED) BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER RELATING TO CONCURRENCY (adds a new chapter for the establishment of a concurrency management system and the preparation of a public facilities improvement plan to fund and maintain county-wide facilities and services)
From Virginia Isbell, Council Vice-Chair, dated August 23, 2006, transmitting the above bill.
ü Bill 329
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983
(2005 EDITION, AS AMENDED) BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER RELATING TO ADEQUATE PUBLIC FACILITIES (adds a new chapter for the identification of infrastructure and services necessary to support new development and the establishment of a policy as to when and how these improvements and services will be constructed and maintained)
From Virginia Isbell, Council Vice-Chair, dated August 23, 2006, transmitting the above bill.
· Ask that these Bills be referred to the Planning Director for administrative review and go through a Public Hearing Process to assure proper checks and balances.
ü Comm. 998.12 – Requests reconsideration of Pete Hoffmann’s Concurrency Bills
REQUESTS RECONSIDERATION OF BILL 318 (RELATING TO CONDITIONS ON CHANGE OF ZONE) AND BILL 319 (RELATING TO LARGE SCALE DEVELOPMENTS)
From Council Vice Chair Virginia Isbell, dated September 20, 2006, pursuant to Rule No. 17 of the Rules of Procedure of the Council of the County of Hawai‘i, requests the reconsideration of Bills 318 and 319.
(BILL 318)
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 25, ARTICLE 2, DIVISION 4, SECTION 25-2-44, HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION) RELATING TO CONDITIONS ON CHANGE OF ZONE.
· Bill introduced by Pete Hoffmann to address Concurrency · Adds requirements to the existing provisions within the Zoning Code to mitigate water supply and transportation impacts concurrent with proposed change of zone applications
· Change of zone applications should address how much public infrastructure is challenged by recent or anticipated growth in that area.
The requirements are proposed to be made concurrent with any change of zone in order to manage growth and coordinate delivery of government services.
(BILL 319)
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 23, ARTICLE 2, DIVISION 1, SECTION 23-13, HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION) RELATING TO LARGE SCALE DEVELOPMENTS.
· Companion to Bill 318 (above) · Adds requirements to existing provisions of the Subdivision Code to mitigate water supply and transportation impacts concurrent with development of large scale subdivisions and condominium property regimes.
· Large scale developments proposed in a particular area should be assessed considering a number of factors, including how much public infrastructure is challenged by recent or anticipated growth in that area.
The requirements are proposed to be made concurrent with development of large scale subdivisions or condominium property regimes in order to manage growth and coordinate delivery of government services.
To see Council Index – Open attachment below:
<
For complete agenda, click on link below:
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
Written testimony should be addressed to Chairman Higa and Council Members
Email to
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
Fax to
961-8912
--------------------------------------------------------------------
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 17TH
9:00 AM FINANCE
1:15 PM ENVIRONMENT
1:45 PM HUMAN SERVICES
ü Comm. 1026 (Res. 432.06)- Require EIS for Super Ferry
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE COMMENCEMENT OF SERVICE OF THE HAWAI‘I SUPERFERRY AT KAWAIHAE HARBOR UNTIL ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS ARE ADDRESSED (requests commencement of operations be postponed pending preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement and construction of necessary improvements to adequately accommodate current harbor users and the Hawai‘i Superferry)
From Councilmember Pete Hoffmann, dated August 17, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The key points in the resolution are 1) Kawaihae Harbor is the only commercial harbor on the west side; 2) Kawaihae Harbor has inadequate infrastructure to accommodate existing users; 3) there is no master plan to deal with aging harbor facilities is proposed by the State Department of Transportation; 4) Hawai‘i Superferry (HSF) operations will result in displacement of existing space occupied by Young Brothers and may result in reduction of service and possible discontinuance of its less than full container load service; 5) the State Department of Transportation does not plan an Environmental Impact Statement as requested by Hawai‘i County Council; 6) HSF may contribute to the spread of invasive species; 7) injury or death to whales has been raised by Pacific Whale Foundation; 8) the landing site may be inaccessible half the year due to high surf; and 9) visitors may overburden limited recreational resources.
Testimony for Human Services Committee should be addressed to
Chairman Holschuh and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
2:45 PM PUBLIC SAFETY PARKS AND REC
ü Comm. 1106 (Bill 347) – Naming of Wai’aha Beach Park
AN ORDINANCE NAMING A COUNTY RECREATIONAL FACILITY
(TMK: (3) 7-5-018:020) PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 15, HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION) (designates the name "Waiaha Bay Beach Park" for the open area park in Kailua-Kona
Testimony for Public Safety Parks and Recreation Committee should be addressed to
Chairman Bob Jacobson and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18TH
9:30 AM PLANNING
ü Comm. 1090 (Res. 465-06) – Protect Pu’u in Waimea
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE PLANNING DIRECTOR TO INITIATE A ZONING CODE AMENDMENT FOR AN ORDINANCE CHANGING THE DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION FROM UNZONED AND AGRICULTURAL (A-1a) TO AGRICULTURAL (A-500a) AT WAIMEA, SOUTH KOHALA, HAWAI‘I COVERED BY TAX MAP KEY 6-5-001:020, IN ORDER TO PRESERVE THE WAIMEA PU‘U AS CULTURAL AND OPEN SPACE RESOURCES AND TO PRESERVE THEIR AGRICULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL USES (preserves the natural beauty, agricultural and recreational uses and cultural resources of this area and protect this important open space resource for the people of the County)
Testimony for Planning Committee should be addressed to
Chairman K. Angel Pilago and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
For Committee Index Click on Attachment
<
For Complete Committee Agenda Click on Link
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
Call our office for any questions.
Thank you for your participation!
Angel, Maile and Karen
Councilman K. Angel Pilago
Council District 8, North Kona
808-327-3642
kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
HELP STOP UNFAIR ELECTION PRACTICES
HELP STOP UNFAIR ELECTION PRACTICES IN HAWAII COUNTY
>YOUR REACTION TO THIS IS IMPORTANT_ PLEASE FORWARD TO YOUR MAILING LISTS!
>
>Urgent action is needed to mitigate elections practices which could
>guarantee Hilo the mayor's office and council control by manipulation
>of voter registration and walk-in voting. Please read the appropriate
>sections below.
>
>I. Synopsis: the problem outlined (if you know this, skip to II.)
>
>II. Proposed action by county council for 16 Oct. meeting in Hilo and
>possible consequences for elections
>
>III. Suggested actions citizens might take
>
>I. The problem
> Around 4 months ago, the Council quietly authorized the Elections
>Office to lease 5,000 sq. ft. of space at Kuhio Mall for $8600/month.
>With 12 full time employees, salaries
>+overheads likely are around
>$ 1 million/annum, plus the 103,000 for the lease. Why? Quoting from
>the authorizing resolution,
> "Whereas, the temporary move of the Election Division to Prince Kuhio
>Plaza could increase voter registration and absentee voter turnout due
>to its high visibility, convenient public location and a high volume of
>foot traffic;..."
> Indeed it is estimated that one of each four Hilo residents passes
>through the mall each day. The location is a corner store, with a 50
>foot row of display windows on each of 2 main mall aisles, festooned
>with flags and 'WIKI-WIKI VOTER REGISTRATION' signs. It looks
>professionally done. It blew me away when I actually saw it, and others
>who have seen it have had a similar reaction.
> Voter registration is a fine thing, but when we spend 1 million/annum
>of tax funds to register voters in Hilo, and have no program anywhere
>else in the county, the election playing field is not fair. But it gets
>still worse!
>During the walk in polling, the Mall location was open 48 hours each
>week, including 8 hours on Saturdays; NO OTHER WALK IN POLL WAS OPEN
>SATURDAYS. Some were open only 25 hours/ week, closed not only
>Saturdays, but lunch hours as well- the best times for working people
>to vote. Remember that only 43% of voters islanwide voted in the last
>primary- so a concerted effort might potentially double the vote in a
>targeted area.The mall must have a few hundred acres of free parking;
>our location usually has none available- and no foot traffic.
> What are the actual numbers? For this past primary, there were 5
>walk-in (i.e. 'absentee' polling places)
>
>Location Votes cast
>Pahala 159
>Kohala 357
>Waimea 975
>Kona 1506
>Kuhio Mall 5192
>
>II Proposed council action for Oct 16 meeting in Hilo
>
> We can see from the numbers above and from analyses of the complete
>returns, that Hilo, with illegally low citizen number districts ( as
>determined by the Hawaii Supreme Court in CERG vs. Hawaii County) gets
>a huge boost in voter turnout from this huge, expensive recruitment
>effort, with no comparable effort anywhere else in the county. There is
>now a resolution for vote on Oct. 16 to EXTEND the Kuhio lease for
>another year (after which it would likely be extended again) to further
>increase the voting power of Hilo. Clearly this makes a mockery of fair
>elections, but let us consider the consequences.
>
>1) There will likely be enough votes cast in Hilo to elect the next
>mayor (rumored to be Mr. Higa). The
> next mayor will appoint the reapportionment and charter
>commissions. So we may expect again to
> have Gerrymandered, illegally small Hilo districts, only the
>charter amendments Hilo wishes.
>
>2) either from the charter commission, or earlier from the council, my
>guess is that a 'one island ' charter
> amendment will be issued (don't trust labels )- to return to an
>earlier plan of e.g. 6 council district
> seats and 3 'at large' seats to show that we are a single county.
>Karl Rove would be proud! They will have the
> electoral vote to pass this. And when we get our ballots, and are
>asked to vote for 3 of 16 candidates
> 'at large', we will discover that Hilo has the votes to elect all
>3, since the 3 highest totals will win. And so,
> this lovely lease at Kuhio Mall could ensure more decades of Hilo
>colonial rule, even after an honest vote
> might produce a neutral and fair county government.
>
>The upcoming vote, being pushed through before a new council can be
>seated (with huge boost from Ms. Isbell), may be seen to have
>importance to West Hawaii beyond just being another appropriations
>bill; it is a stealth bill to ensure future political control for Hilo.
>
>III. What can we do?
>
> If we are not content with being ruled as a colony of Hilo, my best
>guess is that we should first immediately email our council members
>protesting this action. I shall separately forward two letters
>suggesting choices to reduce the disparity. If you care, please show up
>at the W.Hi. mayor's office to testify on 16 Oct., or email testimony
>to counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us.
> If the council does not take strong corrective action- our usual
>'more of the same'- I urge that you send an email to the state ethics
>commission, ethics@hawaiiethics.org ,with a copy to
>elections@aloha.net , and send an email
>to Gov. Lingle, http://www.hawaii.gov/gov/contact/email .
> Copy your ethics commission testimony to joshuaboothgreen@yahoo.com
>and senwhalen@capitol.hawaii.gov .
>And please send this to those on your mailing list who might respond. I
>have a feeling of facing down a steamroller, but we must at least try.
>Many thanks for your help on this- it is for all of us-regards,Marshall
>
>p.s. I shall also forward drafts of a letter to the ethics commission.
>And most importantly- the general election vote result in D7 will
>decide if the new council will be organized by Hilo with Mr. Higa as
>chair (should Ms. Isbell win) or in a neutral mode (should Ms. Ford
>win).
>YOUR REACTION TO THIS IS IMPORTANT_ PLEASE FORWARD TO YOUR MAILING LISTS!
>
>Urgent action is needed to mitigate elections practices which could
>guarantee Hilo the mayor's office and council control by manipulation
>of voter registration and walk-in voting. Please read the appropriate
>sections below.
>
>I. Synopsis: the problem outlined (if you know this, skip to II.)
>
>II. Proposed action by county council for 16 Oct. meeting in Hilo and
>possible consequences for elections
>
>III. Suggested actions citizens might take
>
>I. The problem
> Around 4 months ago, the Council quietly authorized the Elections
>Office to lease 5,000 sq. ft. of space at Kuhio Mall for $8600/month.
>With 12 full time employees, salaries
>+overheads likely are around
>$ 1 million/annum, plus the 103,000 for the lease. Why? Quoting from
>the authorizing resolution,
> "Whereas, the temporary move of the Election Division to Prince Kuhio
>Plaza could increase voter registration and absentee voter turnout due
>to its high visibility, convenient public location and a high volume of
>foot traffic;..."
> Indeed it is estimated that one of each four Hilo residents passes
>through the mall each day. The location is a corner store, with a 50
>foot row of display windows on each of 2 main mall aisles, festooned
>with flags and 'WIKI-WIKI VOTER REGISTRATION' signs. It looks
>professionally done. It blew me away when I actually saw it, and others
>who have seen it have had a similar reaction.
> Voter registration is a fine thing, but when we spend 1 million/annum
>of tax funds to register voters in Hilo, and have no program anywhere
>else in the county, the election playing field is not fair. But it gets
>still worse!
>During the walk in polling, the Mall location was open 48 hours each
>week, including 8 hours on Saturdays; NO OTHER WALK IN POLL WAS OPEN
>SATURDAYS. Some were open only 25 hours/ week, closed not only
>Saturdays, but lunch hours as well- the best times for working people
>to vote. Remember that only 43% of voters islanwide voted in the last
>primary- so a concerted effort might potentially double the vote in a
>targeted area.The mall must have a few hundred acres of free parking;
>our location usually has none available- and no foot traffic.
> What are the actual numbers? For this past primary, there were 5
>walk-in (i.e. 'absentee' polling places)
>
>Location Votes cast
>Pahala 159
>Kohala 357
>Waimea 975
>Kona 1506
>Kuhio Mall 5192
>
>II Proposed council action for Oct 16 meeting in Hilo
>
> We can see from the numbers above and from analyses of the complete
>returns, that Hilo, with illegally low citizen number districts ( as
>determined by the Hawaii Supreme Court in CERG vs. Hawaii County) gets
>a huge boost in voter turnout from this huge, expensive recruitment
>effort, with no comparable effort anywhere else in the county. There is
>now a resolution for vote on Oct. 16 to EXTEND the Kuhio lease for
>another year (after which it would likely be extended again) to further
>increase the voting power of Hilo. Clearly this makes a mockery of fair
>elections, but let us consider the consequences.
>
>1) There will likely be enough votes cast in Hilo to elect the next
>mayor (rumored to be Mr. Higa). The
> next mayor will appoint the reapportionment and charter
>commissions. So we may expect again to
> have Gerrymandered, illegally small Hilo districts, only the
>charter amendments Hilo wishes.
>
>2) either from the charter commission, or earlier from the council, my
>guess is that a 'one island ' charter
> amendment will be issued (don't trust labels )- to return to an
>earlier plan of e.g. 6 council district
> seats and 3 'at large' seats to show that we are a single county.
>Karl Rove would be proud! They will have the
> electoral vote to pass this. And when we get our ballots, and are
>asked to vote for 3 of 16 candidates
> 'at large', we will discover that Hilo has the votes to elect all
>3, since the 3 highest totals will win. And so,
> this lovely lease at Kuhio Mall could ensure more decades of Hilo
>colonial rule, even after an honest vote
> might produce a neutral and fair county government.
>
>The upcoming vote, being pushed through before a new council can be
>seated (with huge boost from Ms. Isbell), may be seen to have
>importance to West Hawaii beyond just being another appropriations
>bill; it is a stealth bill to ensure future political control for Hilo.
>
>III. What can we do?
>
> If we are not content with being ruled as a colony of Hilo, my best
>guess is that we should first immediately email our council members
>protesting this action. I shall separately forward two letters
>suggesting choices to reduce the disparity. If you care, please show up
>at the W.Hi. mayor's office to testify on 16 Oct., or email testimony
>to counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us.
> If the council does not take strong corrective action- our usual
>'more of the same'- I urge that you send an email to the state ethics
>commission, ethics@hawaiiethics.org ,with a copy to
>elections@aloha.net , and send an email
>to Gov. Lingle, http://www.hawaii.gov/gov/contact/email .
> Copy your ethics commission testimony to joshuaboothgreen@yahoo.com
>and senwhalen@capitol.hawaii.gov .
>And please send this to those on your mailing list who might respond. I
>have a feeling of facing down a steamroller, but we must at least try.
>Many thanks for your help on this- it is for all of us-regards,Marshall
>
>p.s. I shall also forward drafts of a letter to the ethics commission.
>And most importantly- the general election vote result in D7 will
>decide if the new council will be organized by Hilo with Mr. Higa as
>chair (should Ms. Isbell win) or in a neutral mode (should Ms. Ford
>win).
Thursday, October 05, 2006
2% Land Update
Aloha all 2% Land Fund supporters!
On November 7th- Vote FOR the 2% Land Fund! Only 5 weeks to go…Here's several things you can do to help make sure Hawai'i lands are protected:1. Understand the Issue! You may have heard that after gathering almost 10,000 signatures that the BALLOT QUESTION the County has decided to place on the ballot is different than what Save Our Lands Citizen's Committee had submitted. This is true, but READ MORE AFTER #9TO FULLY UNDERSTAND THIS ISSUE. 2. We are 100% behind the 2% solution, and want everyone on the Island—including YOU—to vote FOR the 2% Land Fund. PLEASE encourage your friends and family to vote FOR the 2% Land Fund!!3. Register to Vote! Hundreds of people who signed our petition are not recognized as registered voters by the County. Are you one of them? October 9th is the deadline for voters to register in order to vote in the election. Call the County Elections office at 961-8277 to confirm that you are registered correctly, and if not go to http://www.hawaii.gov/elections/voters/registration fill out the form and register immediately!4. Use a Mail In Voting Form to make sure you are able to vote. Go to http://www.hawaii.gov/elections/voters/voteabsentee.htm to download the form to send in by October 25 to receive a mail in ballot to vote in the comfort of your home. No lines or traffic.5. Donate! We have an anonymous donor who will match any donation over $50. to the Save Our Land Citizen's Committee so that we can make signs, put ads on the radio, and make sure that all Big Island voters know to vote FOR the 2% Land Fund. Please make your checks out to Save Our Land and send to PO Box 4148, Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 6. Put Up a Sign! If you live on a highly-travelled road, in a visible spot, volunteer to put up a sign. Signs should be dark green with white writing that say: "Vote FOR the 2% Land Fund." If you can't make your own and would like one for your yard, call Sammie at 960-0645. 7. Sign Wave on Election Day! If you'd like to get outdoors and let your fellow voters know how important it is to protect the 'äina, we need you on election day! Please call Rosemary at 775-9002 or email alles@cfht.hawaii.edu to get directions on how you can spend election day at your local polling place helping others decide to vote for the 2% Land Fund.8. Print and Hand out the attached information sheet to give to friends family and co-workers.9. Print out the attached WINDOWsticker to paste in your window to get people talking. MAHALO!!FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ASK QUESTIONS PLEASE CALL DEBBIE HECHT 989-3222______________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Look for ballot question #1: it may be near the end of your ballot on November 7th. The following is an explanation of the Ballot Language and is meant to dispel any confusion. Please read carefully. The County has ordered that the 2% Land Fund ballot language will appear on the November 7th ballot as follows:ACTUAL BALLOT LANGUAGE: "The proposal would amend Section 2-214(b) of Hawaii County Code by adding the requirement that two percent (2%) of all real property tax revenues collected annually (including penalties) be earmarked for the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Fund. The proposal would also amend Section 2-214 (c) to remove the existing $5,000,000 limit on the fund's balance. Finally, the proposed change would remove section 2-214 (d) that explains how the fund shall be used." IF YOU AGREE, VOTE FOR FOR ___IF YOU DISAGREE, VOTE AGAINST AGAINST ___ The Save Our Land Committee strongly urges you to vote "FOR" this ballot measure. But why is the language so confusing and why is section 2-214(d) being removed? EXPLANATION:
The County translated our petition into their own ballot language, and stated that since the Save Our Lands Committee left 2-214 (d) off of our petitions, that it would be removed from the Land Fund ordinance.
We believe this is an incorrect interpretation; 2-214(d) was simply left off the petition because there was no room on the small petition pages and because there was NO intended change to this part of the Ordinance. 2-214 (d) simply states the Purpose of the current Land Fund Ordinance (see entire Ordinace Text below) and what specific types of lands can be preserved. They include: • Watersheds to protect drinking water• Beaches and coastal areas • Floodplains and properties prone to erosion, landslides and volcanic activity.• Native Hawaiian historical and cultural areas• Native forest areas• Coastal lands that buffer waters and reefs from runoff and pollution • Important Agricultural landsDESPITE THIS "INTERPRETATION," WE ARE ASKING EVERYONE TO VOTE FOR THE 2% LAND FUND! If passed, 2% of our existing property taxes will finally be placed in the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund –the name of the fund clearly dictates how the monies will be spent. In addition, the Save Our Lands Committee has secured the written endorsements from the Councilmembers and Council Candidates that state unequivocally that they support: 1-setting aside 2% of the property tax2- removing the limit on monies that can be held in the fund3- re-instating section 214-2 (d) after the Ballot Intitative passes to re-clarify the Fund purposes.The following COUNCIL Members & Candidates have signed our endorsements: Brenda Ford, Pete Hoffmann, Bob Jacobson, K. Angel Pilago, Gary Safarik, Dominic YagongIn summation, over the last 8 months we have been through hurdle after hurdle. The County's recent interpretation that 214-2(d) should be removed by the petition does not change the importance of the Land Fund and the critical importance of dedicating 2% of our current real property tax revenue to the Fund. It is time for Big Island voters to have a voice in how our tax dollars are spent. Please vote FOR the 2% Land Fund! Aloha! Please call if you have any questions:Debbie Hecht, Coordinactor 989-3222 or any of the Save Our Lands Committee Members: Wendy Vance from Ka'u, Steve Hirakami from Pahoa, MikeVarney from Waimea, Karen Clarkson from Honoka'a and Debbie Hecht from Kona HERE IS THE ACTUAL TEXT FROM THE COUNTY CODE:Article 42. Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund Section 2-214. Public access, open space, and natural resources preservation fund. (a) A public access, open space, and natural resources preservation fund is hereby established. This special fund shall be administered and managed by the finance department. (b) The fund shall consist of monies from: (1) The proceeds from the sale of any general obligation bonds, authorized and issued for the purposes of this article; (2) Council appropriations for the purposes of this article; (3) Any source of revenue dedicated by the Hawai`i County Charter or the Hawai`i County Code for the purposes of this article; and (4) Grants and private contributions intended for the purposes of this article. OUR COMMENT: TO BE ADDED: 2% OF PROPERTY TAXES AND PENALTIES WOULD BE DEPOSITED IN THE FUND EACH YEAR(c) In adopting each fiscal year's operating budget, the council shall appropriate a minimum of $250,000 to the public access, open space, and natural resources preservation fund. (1) When the unencumbered balance in the fund (exclusive of bond proceeds) equals or exceeds $5,000,000, no further county appropriations shall be made until the balance falls below $5,000,000. (OUR COMMENT: THIS IS TO BE DELETED IF THE 2% PASSES) (2) Nothing in this section shall prevent the council from appropriating amounts in excess of the above minimum amounts to this fund.( Our comment: BECAUSE THE FOLLOWING SECTION (d) WAS INADVERTANTLY LEFT OFF OF THE PETITION, THE COUNTY DECLARED THAT THE PETITION WOULD DELETE IT:)(d) The fund shall be used for acquiring lands or property entitlements in the County of Hawai'i for the following purposes: (1) Public outdoor recreation and education, including access to beaches and mountains; (2) Preservation of historic or culturally important land areas and sites; (3) Protection of natural resources, including buffer zones; (4) Preservation of forests, beaches, coastal areas, natural beauty and agricultural lands; and (5) Protection of watershed lands to preserve water quality and water supply. (2005, Ord. No. 05-85, sec. 2; Am. 2005, Ord. No. 05-166, sec. 1.)2-214 Section 2-215. Public access, open space, and natural resources preservation commission. (a) There is established a public access, open space, and natural resources preservation commission. There shall be nine members on this commission, appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the council. The members may be removed upon recommendation by the mayor and the approval of the council. One member shall reside in each County council district. The members shall serve staggered terms of five years. Upon initial appointment of the commission, one member shall be appointed to a term of one year, two for a term of two years, two for a term of three years, two for a term of four years, and two for a term of five years. Staff support shall be provided by the finance department. (b) No member shall be eligible for a second appointment to the commission prior to the expiration of two years, provided that members initially appointed for a term of one year and two years shall be eligible to succeed themselves for an additional term. (c) No member whose term has expired shall continue to serve on the commission, except that if no successor has been appointed and confirmed, the member shall continue to serve for ninety days or until a successor is appointed and confirmed, whichever comes first. (d) Any vacancy occurring in the commission shall be filled for the unexpired term. (e) Not more than a bare majority of the members shall belong to the same political party. (f) Members shall receive no compensation but shall be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties. Necessary expenses may be paid in advance as per diem allowance pursuant to article 16. (g) A chairperson shall be elected from its membership annually. (h) The affirmative vote of a majority of those members present shall be necessary to make any action valid. (i) The commission shall have the power to establish its rules of procedure necessary for the conduct of its business, which rules shall contain the time and place of all regular meetings, and which shall specify that a quorum shall be a majority of the members to which the commission is entitled. (j) No person shall, by reason of occupation alone, be barred from serving as a member of this commission. (k) The council shall act to confirm or reject any appointment made to the commission by the mayor within forty-five days after receiving notice of the appointment from the mayor. If the council does not confirm or reject any such appointment within forty-five days, the appointee shall be deemed to have beenconfirmed. (l) The redrawing of the council district boundaries during a member's term shall not affect a member's eligibility to represent the district to which the member was appointed. (2005, Ord. No. 05-166, sec. 2.)2-215 Debbie Hecht, Coordinator Save Our Lands Citizen's CommitteeP.O. Box 4148 Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 (808) 989-3222
On November 7th- Vote FOR the 2% Land Fund! Only 5 weeks to go…Here's several things you can do to help make sure Hawai'i lands are protected:1. Understand the Issue! You may have heard that after gathering almost 10,000 signatures that the BALLOT QUESTION the County has decided to place on the ballot is different than what Save Our Lands Citizen's Committee had submitted. This is true, but READ MORE AFTER #9TO FULLY UNDERSTAND THIS ISSUE. 2. We are 100% behind the 2% solution, and want everyone on the Island—including YOU—to vote FOR the 2% Land Fund. PLEASE encourage your friends and family to vote FOR the 2% Land Fund!!3. Register to Vote! Hundreds of people who signed our petition are not recognized as registered voters by the County. Are you one of them? October 9th is the deadline for voters to register in order to vote in the election. Call the County Elections office at 961-8277 to confirm that you are registered correctly, and if not go to http://www.hawaii.gov/elections/voters/registration fill out the form and register immediately!4. Use a Mail In Voting Form to make sure you are able to vote. Go to http://www.hawaii.gov/elections/voters/voteabsentee.htm to download the form to send in by October 25 to receive a mail in ballot to vote in the comfort of your home. No lines or traffic.5. Donate! We have an anonymous donor who will match any donation over $50. to the Save Our Land Citizen's Committee so that we can make signs, put ads on the radio, and make sure that all Big Island voters know to vote FOR the 2% Land Fund. Please make your checks out to Save Our Land and send to PO Box 4148, Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 6. Put Up a Sign! If you live on a highly-travelled road, in a visible spot, volunteer to put up a sign. Signs should be dark green with white writing that say: "Vote FOR the 2% Land Fund." If you can't make your own and would like one for your yard, call Sammie at 960-0645. 7. Sign Wave on Election Day! If you'd like to get outdoors and let your fellow voters know how important it is to protect the 'äina, we need you on election day! Please call Rosemary at 775-9002 or email alles@cfht.hawaii.edu to get directions on how you can spend election day at your local polling place helping others decide to vote for the 2% Land Fund.8. Print and Hand out the attached information sheet to give to friends family and co-workers.9. Print out the attached WINDOWsticker to paste in your window to get people talking. MAHALO!!FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ASK QUESTIONS PLEASE CALL DEBBIE HECHT 989-3222______________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Look for ballot question #1: it may be near the end of your ballot on November 7th. The following is an explanation of the Ballot Language and is meant to dispel any confusion. Please read carefully. The County has ordered that the 2% Land Fund ballot language will appear on the November 7th ballot as follows:ACTUAL BALLOT LANGUAGE: "The proposal would amend Section 2-214(b) of Hawaii County Code by adding the requirement that two percent (2%) of all real property tax revenues collected annually (including penalties) be earmarked for the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Fund. The proposal would also amend Section 2-214 (c) to remove the existing $5,000,000 limit on the fund's balance. Finally, the proposed change would remove section 2-214 (d) that explains how the fund shall be used." IF YOU AGREE, VOTE FOR FOR ___IF YOU DISAGREE, VOTE AGAINST AGAINST ___ The Save Our Land Committee strongly urges you to vote "FOR" this ballot measure. But why is the language so confusing and why is section 2-214(d) being removed? EXPLANATION:
The County translated our petition into their own ballot language, and stated that since the Save Our Lands Committee left 2-214 (d) off of our petitions, that it would be removed from the Land Fund ordinance.
We believe this is an incorrect interpretation; 2-214(d) was simply left off the petition because there was no room on the small petition pages and because there was NO intended change to this part of the Ordinance. 2-214 (d) simply states the Purpose of the current Land Fund Ordinance (see entire Ordinace Text below) and what specific types of lands can be preserved. They include: • Watersheds to protect drinking water• Beaches and coastal areas • Floodplains and properties prone to erosion, landslides and volcanic activity.• Native Hawaiian historical and cultural areas• Native forest areas• Coastal lands that buffer waters and reefs from runoff and pollution • Important Agricultural landsDESPITE THIS "INTERPRETATION," WE ARE ASKING EVERYONE TO VOTE FOR THE 2% LAND FUND! If passed, 2% of our existing property taxes will finally be placed in the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund –the name of the fund clearly dictates how the monies will be spent. In addition, the Save Our Lands Committee has secured the written endorsements from the Councilmembers and Council Candidates that state unequivocally that they support: 1-setting aside 2% of the property tax2- removing the limit on monies that can be held in the fund3- re-instating section 214-2 (d) after the Ballot Intitative passes to re-clarify the Fund purposes.The following COUNCIL Members & Candidates have signed our endorsements: Brenda Ford, Pete Hoffmann, Bob Jacobson, K. Angel Pilago, Gary Safarik, Dominic YagongIn summation, over the last 8 months we have been through hurdle after hurdle. The County's recent interpretation that 214-2(d) should be removed by the petition does not change the importance of the Land Fund and the critical importance of dedicating 2% of our current real property tax revenue to the Fund. It is time for Big Island voters to have a voice in how our tax dollars are spent. Please vote FOR the 2% Land Fund! Aloha! Please call if you have any questions:Debbie Hecht, Coordinactor 989-3222 or any of the Save Our Lands Committee Members: Wendy Vance from Ka'u, Steve Hirakami from Pahoa, MikeVarney from Waimea, Karen Clarkson from Honoka'a and Debbie Hecht from Kona HERE IS THE ACTUAL TEXT FROM THE COUNTY CODE:Article 42. Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund Section 2-214. Public access, open space, and natural resources preservation fund. (a) A public access, open space, and natural resources preservation fund is hereby established. This special fund shall be administered and managed by the finance department. (b) The fund shall consist of monies from: (1) The proceeds from the sale of any general obligation bonds, authorized and issued for the purposes of this article; (2) Council appropriations for the purposes of this article; (3) Any source of revenue dedicated by the Hawai`i County Charter or the Hawai`i County Code for the purposes of this article; and (4) Grants and private contributions intended for the purposes of this article. OUR COMMENT: TO BE ADDED: 2% OF PROPERTY TAXES AND PENALTIES WOULD BE DEPOSITED IN THE FUND EACH YEAR(c) In adopting each fiscal year's operating budget, the council shall appropriate a minimum of $250,000 to the public access, open space, and natural resources preservation fund. (1) When the unencumbered balance in the fund (exclusive of bond proceeds) equals or exceeds $5,000,000, no further county appropriations shall be made until the balance falls below $5,000,000. (OUR COMMENT: THIS IS TO BE DELETED IF THE 2% PASSES) (2) Nothing in this section shall prevent the council from appropriating amounts in excess of the above minimum amounts to this fund.( Our comment: BECAUSE THE FOLLOWING SECTION (d) WAS INADVERTANTLY LEFT OFF OF THE PETITION, THE COUNTY DECLARED THAT THE PETITION WOULD DELETE IT:)(d) The fund shall be used for acquiring lands or property entitlements in the County of Hawai'i for the following purposes: (1) Public outdoor recreation and education, including access to beaches and mountains; (2) Preservation of historic or culturally important land areas and sites; (3) Protection of natural resources, including buffer zones; (4) Preservation of forests, beaches, coastal areas, natural beauty and agricultural lands; and (5) Protection of watershed lands to preserve water quality and water supply. (2005, Ord. No. 05-85, sec. 2; Am. 2005, Ord. No. 05-166, sec. 1.)2-214 Section 2-215. Public access, open space, and natural resources preservation commission. (a) There is established a public access, open space, and natural resources preservation commission. There shall be nine members on this commission, appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the council. The members may be removed upon recommendation by the mayor and the approval of the council. One member shall reside in each County council district. The members shall serve staggered terms of five years. Upon initial appointment of the commission, one member shall be appointed to a term of one year, two for a term of two years, two for a term of three years, two for a term of four years, and two for a term of five years. Staff support shall be provided by the finance department. (b) No member shall be eligible for a second appointment to the commission prior to the expiration of two years, provided that members initially appointed for a term of one year and two years shall be eligible to succeed themselves for an additional term. (c) No member whose term has expired shall continue to serve on the commission, except that if no successor has been appointed and confirmed, the member shall continue to serve for ninety days or until a successor is appointed and confirmed, whichever comes first. (d) Any vacancy occurring in the commission shall be filled for the unexpired term. (e) Not more than a bare majority of the members shall belong to the same political party. (f) Members shall receive no compensation but shall be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties. Necessary expenses may be paid in advance as per diem allowance pursuant to article 16. (g) A chairperson shall be elected from its membership annually. (h) The affirmative vote of a majority of those members present shall be necessary to make any action valid. (i) The commission shall have the power to establish its rules of procedure necessary for the conduct of its business, which rules shall contain the time and place of all regular meetings, and which shall specify that a quorum shall be a majority of the members to which the commission is entitled. (j) No person shall, by reason of occupation alone, be barred from serving as a member of this commission. (k) The council shall act to confirm or reject any appointment made to the commission by the mayor within forty-five days after receiving notice of the appointment from the mayor. If the council does not confirm or reject any such appointment within forty-five days, the appointee shall be deemed to have beenconfirmed. (l) The redrawing of the council district boundaries during a member's term shall not affect a member's eligibility to represent the district to which the member was appointed. (2005, Ord. No. 05-166, sec. 2.)2-215 Debbie Hecht, Coordinator Save Our Lands Citizen's CommitteeP.O. Box 4148 Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 (808) 989-3222
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Town Meeting
OCTOBER TOWN MEETING:
October 3, 2006, Tuesday
Makaeo Events Pavilion (Old Airport Main Pavilion)
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Featured Speakers include:
Hawaii County Council District 7 candidates:
Virginia Isbell
Brenda Ford
Hawaii State House of Representatives, District 5 candidates:
Bob Herkes
Charles Hosley
Hawaii State House of Representatives, District 7 candidates:
Cindy Evans
Bill Sanborn
Lt. Governor candidate: Malama Solomon
Guest Speakers:
Mark Littorin of the Kohala Center
Pat Nakamoto of the County of Hawaii Elections Office
Community Enterprises is a non-profit and non-partisan organization. We
encourage Kona residents to attend our monthly Town Meetings. The
abbreviated and fast moving meetings provide the community with information
about events, services, organizations and governmental policies affecting
the Kona area. For more information, you can contact Carol Christianson at
324-7870.
Light refreshments will be served and everyone is warmly welcome.
October 3, 2006, Tuesday
Makaeo Events Pavilion (Old Airport Main Pavilion)
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Featured Speakers include:
Hawaii County Council District 7 candidates:
Virginia Isbell
Brenda Ford
Hawaii State House of Representatives, District 5 candidates:
Bob Herkes
Charles Hosley
Hawaii State House of Representatives, District 7 candidates:
Cindy Evans
Bill Sanborn
Lt. Governor candidate: Malama Solomon
Guest Speakers:
Mark Littorin of the Kohala Center
Pat Nakamoto of the County of Hawaii Elections Office
Community Enterprises is a non-profit and non-partisan organization. We
encourage Kona residents to attend our monthly Town Meetings. The
abbreviated and fast moving meetings provide the community with information
about events, services, organizations and governmental policies affecting
the Kona area. For more information, you can contact Carol Christianson at
324-7870.
Light refreshments will be served and everyone is warmly welcome.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Tell your friends: Fire Karl Rove!
Hello,
On Sunday, Newsweek magazine revealed that Karl Rove – as you know, the President's closest political advisor -- was responsible for disclosing the identity of undercover CIA agent Valerie Plame.
The agent, Valerie Plame, worked on weapons of mass destruction for the agency and by exposing her identity, the leaker could have jeopardized the lives of other covert agents in the field. At best, it was recklessly irresponsible; at worst, it was malicious; and either way, the leaker undermined our national security.
President Bush has pledged to fire anyone who helped leak Plame’s name to the press. Now we know that the person responsible was Karl Rove. Please take a moment to sign the petition telling the President to keep his promise now at:
http://www.moveonpac.org/firerove/
Thanks,
Peter
On Sunday, Newsweek magazine revealed that Karl Rove – as you know, the President's closest political advisor -- was responsible for disclosing the identity of undercover CIA agent Valerie Plame.
The agent, Valerie Plame, worked on weapons of mass destruction for the agency and by exposing her identity, the leaker could have jeopardized the lives of other covert agents in the field. At best, it was recklessly irresponsible; at worst, it was malicious; and either way, the leaker undermined our national security.
President Bush has pledged to fire anyone who helped leak Plame’s name to the press. Now we know that the person responsible was Karl Rove. Please take a moment to sign the petition telling the President to keep his promise now at:
http://www.moveonpac.org/firerove/
Thanks,
Peter
Sunday, September 17, 2006
County Council Meeting in Kona Tue.
MEETINGS WILL BE HELD
IN KONA
AT THE SHERATON KEAUHOU
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH – COMMITTEE MEETINGS
8:30 Finance
10:30 Public Safety Parks and Recreation
11:00 Public Works and Intergovernmental Affairs
1:30 Environmental Management
2:30 Planning
For Committee Index Click on Attachment
<>
For Complete Committee Agenda Click on Link
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
Important Committee Agenda Items:
8:30 - FINANCE
Res. 451-06
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF TAX MAP KEY PARCELS 9-5-017:007, 9-5-017:005, 9-5-016:025, AND 9-5-016:006, COMPRISING APPROXIMATELY 785.161 ACRES OF LAND, COLLECTIVELY KNOWN AS KAWA‘A AND KAWA‘A BAY, IN THE DISTRICT OF KA‘Ū, PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 05-166
From Councilmember Bob Jacobson, dated September 5, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The Kawa‘a/Kawa‘a Bay area has been prioritized by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission as number one, with an 88 percent criteria score, in its report to the Mayor dated April 5, 2006 and concurred by the Mayor in Communication No. 909, dated May 18, 2006. Kawa‘a/Kawa‘a Bay was designated by the Commission as Category A: “Lands or property entitlements with high public interest, imminent needs for acquisition, and largest benefit to the general public.”
Res. 452-06
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF TAX MAP KEY PARCELS 9-6-001:006, 9-6-001:011, 9-6-001:012, AND 9-6-001:003, COMPRISING APPROXIMATELY 10.195 ACRES OF LAND, ALSO KNOWN AS PUNALU‘U BEACH PARK AND ADJACENT LANDS, IN THE DISTRICT OF KA‘Ū, PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 05-166
From Councilmember Bob Jacobson, dated September 5, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The Punalu‘u Beach Park and adjacent lands area has been prioritized by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission as number five in its report to the Mayor dated April 5, 2006 with a 70 percent criteria score, and elevated to number two by the Mayor in Communication No. 909, dated May 18, 2006, citing the fact that the County park, including the pavilion, is not owned by the County government; and the importance of acquiring permanent ownership for the planning of long-term improvements and infrastructure. The Commission designated Punalu‘u Beach Park, Category A: “Lands or property entitlements with high public interest, imminent needs for acquisition, and largest benefit to the general public.”
Testimony for Finance Committee items should be addressed to
Chairwoman Virginia Isbell and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2:30 - PLANNING
Bill 328
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983
(2005 EDITION, AS AMENDED) BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER RELATING TO CONCURRENCY (adds a new chapter for the establishment of a concurrency management system and the preparation of a public facilities improvement plan to fund and maintain county-wide facilities and services)
From Virginia Isbell, Council Vice-Chair, dated August 23, 2006, transmitting the above bill.
Bill 329
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983
(2005 EDITION, AS AMENDED) BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER RELATING TO ADEQUATE PUBLIC FACILITIES (adds a new chapter for the identification of infrastructure and services necessary to support new development and the establishment of a policy as to when and how these improvements and services will be constructed and maintained)
From Virginia Isbell, Council Vice-Chair, dated August 23, 2006, transmitting the above bill.
· Ask that these Bills be referred to the Planning Director for administrative review and go through a Public Hearing Process to assure proper checks and balances.
Testimony for Planning Committee items should be addressed to
Chairman K. Angel Pilago and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
COUNCIL MEETING
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH, 2006
To see Council Index – Open attachment below:
<>
For complete agenda, click on link below:
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
Written testimony should be addressed to Chairman Higa and Council Members
Email to
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
Fax to
961-8912
--------------------------------------------------------------------
ALSO ON
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH, 2006
@ 6:00 PM
PUBLIC HEARING AT THE SHERATON KEAUHOU
ON BILL 300
Bill 300 amends the County Code
· No alcohol in County parks and recreation facilities without a permit · Permits available during 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Thank you for your participation!
Angel, Maile and Karen
Councilman K. Angel Pilago
Council District 8, North Kona
808-327-3642
kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
IN KONA
AT THE SHERATON KEAUHOU
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH – COMMITTEE MEETINGS
8:30 Finance
10:30 Public Safety Parks and Recreation
11:00 Public Works and Intergovernmental Affairs
1:30 Environmental Management
2:30 Planning
For Committee Index Click on Attachment
<
For Complete Committee Agenda Click on Link
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
Important Committee Agenda Items:
8:30 - FINANCE
Res. 451-06
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF TAX MAP KEY PARCELS 9-5-017:007, 9-5-017:005, 9-5-016:025, AND 9-5-016:006, COMPRISING APPROXIMATELY 785.161 ACRES OF LAND, COLLECTIVELY KNOWN AS KAWA‘A AND KAWA‘A BAY, IN THE DISTRICT OF KA‘Ū, PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 05-166
From Councilmember Bob Jacobson, dated September 5, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The Kawa‘a/Kawa‘a Bay area has been prioritized by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission as number one, with an 88 percent criteria score, in its report to the Mayor dated April 5, 2006 and concurred by the Mayor in Communication No. 909, dated May 18, 2006. Kawa‘a/Kawa‘a Bay was designated by the Commission as Category A: “Lands or property entitlements with high public interest, imminent needs for acquisition, and largest benefit to the general public.”
Res. 452-06
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF TAX MAP KEY PARCELS 9-6-001:006, 9-6-001:011, 9-6-001:012, AND 9-6-001:003, COMPRISING APPROXIMATELY 10.195 ACRES OF LAND, ALSO KNOWN AS PUNALU‘U BEACH PARK AND ADJACENT LANDS, IN THE DISTRICT OF KA‘Ū, PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 05-166
From Councilmember Bob Jacobson, dated September 5, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The Punalu‘u Beach Park and adjacent lands area has been prioritized by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission as number five in its report to the Mayor dated April 5, 2006 with a 70 percent criteria score, and elevated to number two by the Mayor in Communication No. 909, dated May 18, 2006, citing the fact that the County park, including the pavilion, is not owned by the County government; and the importance of acquiring permanent ownership for the planning of long-term improvements and infrastructure. The Commission designated Punalu‘u Beach Park, Category A: “Lands or property entitlements with high public interest, imminent needs for acquisition, and largest benefit to the general public.”
Testimony for Finance Committee items should be addressed to
Chairwoman Virginia Isbell and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2:30 - PLANNING
Bill 328
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983
(2005 EDITION, AS AMENDED) BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER RELATING TO CONCURRENCY (adds a new chapter for the establishment of a concurrency management system and the preparation of a public facilities improvement plan to fund and maintain county-wide facilities and services)
From Virginia Isbell, Council Vice-Chair, dated August 23, 2006, transmitting the above bill.
Bill 329
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983
(2005 EDITION, AS AMENDED) BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER RELATING TO ADEQUATE PUBLIC FACILITIES (adds a new chapter for the identification of infrastructure and services necessary to support new development and the establishment of a policy as to when and how these improvements and services will be constructed and maintained)
From Virginia Isbell, Council Vice-Chair, dated August 23, 2006, transmitting the above bill.
· Ask that these Bills be referred to the Planning Director for administrative review and go through a Public Hearing Process to assure proper checks and balances.
Testimony for Planning Committee items should be addressed to
Chairman K. Angel Pilago and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
COUNCIL MEETING
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH, 2006
To see Council Index – Open attachment below:
<
For complete agenda, click on link below:
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
Written testimony should be addressed to Chairman Higa and Council Members
Email to
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
Fax to
961-8912
--------------------------------------------------------------------
ALSO ON
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH, 2006
@ 6:00 PM
PUBLIC HEARING AT THE SHERATON KEAUHOU
ON BILL 300
Bill 300 amends the County Code
· No alcohol in County parks and recreation facilities without a permit · Permits available during 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Thank you for your participation!
Angel, Maile and Karen
Councilman K. Angel Pilago
Council District 8, North Kona
808-327-3642
kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
Friday, September 15, 2006
Mahalo Party 2% Today
2% for Open Space Campaign-TODAY
- Friday Sept. 15 Hope you can make it- tomorrow, Friday the 15th. Find out about the latest developments AND Kick off the CampaignKona Outdoor Circle- 6:00 to 9:00 pm- light pupus and beer and wine. If you have time please bring a dish to share.
We need your help..
-- Debbie Hecht, Coordinator,
Save Our Lands Citizen's Committee
P.O. Box 4148Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 (808) 989-3222
- Friday Sept. 15 Hope you can make it- tomorrow, Friday the 15th. Find out about the latest developments AND Kick off the CampaignKona Outdoor Circle- 6:00 to 9:00 pm- light pupus and beer and wine. If you have time please bring a dish to share.
We need your help..
-- Debbie Hecht, Coordinator,
Save Our Lands Citizen's Committee
P.O. Box 4148Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 (808) 989-3222
Saturday, August 05, 2006
Effective Jan 1 EQUAL Number of Meetings! YES!
THANKS TO YOUR SUPPORT AND TESTIMONY
WE WON
EQUAL NUMBER OF MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAI'I.
Starting January 1, 2007, equal number of Council and Committee meetings will be held in West Hawaii.
* To ensure all citizens equitable access to government by democracy
* Allow fair opportunity for public input, participation, debate and
resolution
* Draft 1 introduced by Pilago
* Draft 2 introduced by Hoffmann assures videoconferencing will be
available for all Council locations
* Need to watch Higa's amendment that makes meetings subject to staff
and equipment availability
Ayes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Safarik, Isbell, Higa, Holschuh
Noes: Arakaki, Ikeda
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------
COUNCIL VOTED UNANIMOUSLY
TO "FILE" RESO. THAT WOULD HAVE
CHANGED GENERAL PLAN AT HONOKOHAU HARBOR TO INCLUDE RESORT DESIGNATION Reso. would have paved the way for Jacoby Project to build 3 hotels and 700 timeshare units. It is now "filed" which means it is technically "dead".
* If not "filed", Hoffmann was going to ask for a public hearing and
Pilago would request it be held in Kona.
* Planning Department did not support the change
* Premature - as no EIS has been prepared
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------
MAHALO TO THE STUDENTS
AND WEST HAWAII FISHERIES YOUTH COUNCIL
SMOKING BAN AT KAHALU'U BEACH PARK ADOPTED
* Requested by the West Hawai'i Youth Fishery Council that an
ordinance be prepared prohibiting smoking at Kahalu'u Beach Park and a fine of $100 be imposed.
* The youth were moved to support this after picking up over 3,000
cigarette butts in 1/2 hour at the beach
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------
WE LOST
THE ORDINANCE TO INITIATE A CHARTER AMENDMENT TO SPLIT THE PLANNING COMMISSION
* The intent of Bill 308 was to ease the Planning Commission calendar
and allow commissioners, representative of East Hawai'i and commissioners representative of West Hawai'i to address matters specific to their districts.
Ayes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Isbell
Noes: Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Jacobson, Safarik, Arakaki
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENTS
MOVE ON TO COUNCIL
Thanks go out to Councilman Pete Hoffmann for helping Chair the extremely long Planning Committee meeting (1-9:00 pm on Monday and continuing on Tuesday from 1:30-5:30 pm) to address the Planning Director initiated amendments to the General Plan.
* Kona will be getting many new connector roads and road improvements
* Lands at Kohanaiki and Kaloko will be changed to Low Density and
Conservation to protect cultural and natural resources.
General Plan Amendments will be discussed further at next Council meeting on August 23rd.
We'll send further information next week.
Angel, Maile, Karen
Councilman K. Angel Pilago
District 8, North Kona
327-3642
WE WON
EQUAL NUMBER OF MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAI'I.
Starting January 1, 2007, equal number of Council and Committee meetings will be held in West Hawaii.
* To ensure all citizens equitable access to government by democracy
* Allow fair opportunity for public input, participation, debate and
resolution
* Draft 1 introduced by Pilago
* Draft 2 introduced by Hoffmann assures videoconferencing will be
available for all Council locations
* Need to watch Higa's amendment that makes meetings subject to staff
and equipment availability
Ayes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Safarik, Isbell, Higa, Holschuh
Noes: Arakaki, Ikeda
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------
COUNCIL VOTED UNANIMOUSLY
TO "FILE" RESO. THAT WOULD HAVE
CHANGED GENERAL PLAN AT HONOKOHAU HARBOR TO INCLUDE RESORT DESIGNATION Reso. would have paved the way for Jacoby Project to build 3 hotels and 700 timeshare units. It is now "filed" which means it is technically "dead".
* If not "filed", Hoffmann was going to ask for a public hearing and
Pilago would request it be held in Kona.
* Planning Department did not support the change
* Premature - as no EIS has been prepared
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------
MAHALO TO THE STUDENTS
AND WEST HAWAII FISHERIES YOUTH COUNCIL
SMOKING BAN AT KAHALU'U BEACH PARK ADOPTED
* Requested by the West Hawai'i Youth Fishery Council that an
ordinance be prepared prohibiting smoking at Kahalu'u Beach Park and a fine of $100 be imposed.
* The youth were moved to support this after picking up over 3,000
cigarette butts in 1/2 hour at the beach
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------
WE LOST
THE ORDINANCE TO INITIATE A CHARTER AMENDMENT TO SPLIT THE PLANNING COMMISSION
* The intent of Bill 308 was to ease the Planning Commission calendar
and allow commissioners, representative of East Hawai'i and commissioners representative of West Hawai'i to address matters specific to their districts.
Ayes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Isbell
Noes: Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Jacobson, Safarik, Arakaki
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENTS
MOVE ON TO COUNCIL
Thanks go out to Councilman Pete Hoffmann for helping Chair the extremely long Planning Committee meeting (1-9:00 pm on Monday and continuing on Tuesday from 1:30-5:30 pm) to address the Planning Director initiated amendments to the General Plan.
* Kona will be getting many new connector roads and road improvements
* Lands at Kohanaiki and Kaloko will be changed to Low Density and
Conservation to protect cultural and natural resources.
General Plan Amendments will be discussed further at next Council meeting on August 23rd.
We'll send further information next week.
Angel, Maile, Karen
Councilman K. Angel Pilago
District 8, North Kona
327-3642
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Creditability? Accountability? Let's See
TO:Hawaii County Council
Chairman Stacy Higa
Virginia Isbell
James Arikaki
Pete Hoffman
Fred Holschuh
Angel Pilago
Donald Ikeda
Bob Jacobson
Gary Safarik
July 23, 2006
IS ANYBODY GOING TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THIS?
“Regarding Bill 268 introduced by Councilman Pilago, it seems there was a creditability problem in regards to the 17 people who wrote testimony in opposition to having more meetings in Kona.From the WHT article:"However, responses from those whose names appear on letters opposed to the measure weren't so definite. Of the eight people who could be contacted, some refused to speak about the issue, one hung up after being told the reason for the phone call, two people didn't recall signing such a letter and one said he actually supports council members meeting as often in Kona as in Hilo." Even though the people for more meetings in Kona beat the people against 56-17, it is unsettling that some, if not all, the testimony against might've been contrived.”
After reading the WHT article and the above excertped from the West Hawaii blog I contacted my councilmen and asked:
“Will there be any official follow-up regarding the article in the West Hawaii Today which reported that some of the letters submitted to the County Council opposing equal council meetings in Kona might have been contrived by Council Chair Stacy Higa or one of his aides? If the allegation were proved to be true Mr. Higa should be removed from office.”
His answer was: Tiffany Edwards was investigating. We don't know what she discovered. I asked again: Is that the investigation that the public deserves in this instance? If the allegation is true then Mr. Higa has committed a major ethics breach. Is it to be left up to WHT to find out the particulars or is there some mechanism at the county government level that should be involved?
A month has elapsed since this incident and it would appear that there was no official follow up or at least none that has been made public. I contacted the WHT reporter yesterday and her comments were as follows: “people were mum about it.” One person within the county government did call her and commented that “you hit a home run”, meaning that her information about the contrived testimony was accurate and she further stated that one of the seventeen letters was written by Fred Holschuh’s campaign manager, no doubt concerned about Dr. Holschuh’s backside.
So now I would ask you all as a group of representatives elected to serve the entire island. Is this kind of political dirty trick to be swept under the rug? Are you all going to just turn a blind eye when the council chairman behaves this way?
A recent letter to the editor in the WHT illuminated Mr. Higa’s political fund raising activities that far outstrips what the rest of you feel is required to win reelection. The bulk of his contributions came from development and business firms. The inference is pretty clear. While I’m sure this is perfectly legal the fallout will be a continuing rift between East and West Hawaii as Kona gets more development and traffic congestion but seemingly no move by the government to tackle our infrastructure needs. Mr. Higa has voiced his concerns about the move to divide the county but by his actions invites it. Kona suffered for many years under the chairmanship of Mr. Arikaki and now he has passed his connections and contributors to his protégé. WE ARE GOING BACKWARDS PEOPLE!
Thank you for your kind attention,
Peter Hain
73-1066 Ahikawa Street
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
325-5855
cc: Mayor Kim
County Board of Ethics
Chairman Stacy Higa
Virginia Isbell
James Arikaki
Pete Hoffman
Fred Holschuh
Angel Pilago
Donald Ikeda
Bob Jacobson
Gary Safarik
July 23, 2006
IS ANYBODY GOING TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THIS?
“Regarding Bill 268 introduced by Councilman Pilago, it seems there was a creditability problem in regards to the 17 people who wrote testimony in opposition to having more meetings in Kona.From the WHT article:"However, responses from those whose names appear on letters opposed to the measure weren't so definite. Of the eight people who could be contacted, some refused to speak about the issue, one hung up after being told the reason for the phone call, two people didn't recall signing such a letter and one said he actually supports council members meeting as often in Kona as in Hilo." Even though the people for more meetings in Kona beat the people against 56-17, it is unsettling that some, if not all, the testimony against might've been contrived.”
After reading the WHT article and the above excertped from the West Hawaii blog I contacted my councilmen and asked:
“Will there be any official follow-up regarding the article in the West Hawaii Today which reported that some of the letters submitted to the County Council opposing equal council meetings in Kona might have been contrived by Council Chair Stacy Higa or one of his aides? If the allegation were proved to be true Mr. Higa should be removed from office.”
His answer was: Tiffany Edwards was investigating. We don't know what she discovered. I asked again: Is that the investigation that the public deserves in this instance? If the allegation is true then Mr. Higa has committed a major ethics breach. Is it to be left up to WHT to find out the particulars or is there some mechanism at the county government level that should be involved?
A month has elapsed since this incident and it would appear that there was no official follow up or at least none that has been made public. I contacted the WHT reporter yesterday and her comments were as follows: “people were mum about it.” One person within the county government did call her and commented that “you hit a home run”, meaning that her information about the contrived testimony was accurate and she further stated that one of the seventeen letters was written by Fred Holschuh’s campaign manager, no doubt concerned about Dr. Holschuh’s backside.
So now I would ask you all as a group of representatives elected to serve the entire island. Is this kind of political dirty trick to be swept under the rug? Are you all going to just turn a blind eye when the council chairman behaves this way?
A recent letter to the editor in the WHT illuminated Mr. Higa’s political fund raising activities that far outstrips what the rest of you feel is required to win reelection. The bulk of his contributions came from development and business firms. The inference is pretty clear. While I’m sure this is perfectly legal the fallout will be a continuing rift between East and West Hawaii as Kona gets more development and traffic congestion but seemingly no move by the government to tackle our infrastructure needs. Mr. Higa has voiced his concerns about the move to divide the county but by his actions invites it. Kona suffered for many years under the chairmanship of Mr. Arikaki and now he has passed his connections and contributors to his protégé. WE ARE GOING BACKWARDS PEOPLE!
Thank you for your kind attention,
Peter Hain
73-1066 Ahikawa Street
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
325-5855
cc: Mayor Kim
County Board of Ethics
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Agenda Items for the next Council Meeting
MONDAY JULY 31st
> PLANNING COMMITTEE
> MEETS IN HILO @ 1:00 PM
> To Discuss Planning Director Initiated INTERIM GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENTS
>
> Testify via videoconference
> From Kona and Waimea
>
> Public testimony taken at 1:00 PM
>
> Comm. 964:
> (BILL 309)
> AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI'I COUNTY GENERAL PLAN, AS ADOPTED BY
> ORDINANCE NO. 05-25 Amends text, policies, courses of action, Land Use
> Pattern Allocation Guide [LUPAG] Map and Facilities Map in the
> Districts of Puna, South Hilo, Hamakua, North Kohala, North and South
> Kona and Ka'u.
> (Planning Director Initiated)
>
> * The above Bill 309 carries a favorable recommendation from the
> Planning Commission to the proposed amendments, with the exception of
> a proposed map change F-2 and A-1.
> * Proposed F-2 would change the County Land Use Designation of almost
> 100 acres on the Pali, directly above the Conservation area over
> Kealakeua Bay, from Important Agricultural Lands to Rural.
> * The Planning Commission voted to delete the F-2 change to protect
> the Agricultural Lands
> * Our office has received and forwarded to Hilo over 20 letters
> supporting deletion of the F-2 amendment and upholding the General
> Plan mandate to protect Natural Resources, Natural Beauty, Coastal
> Resources and Unique Habitat.
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> --------------------------
> TUESDAY, AUGUST 1st
> COUNCIL
> MEETS IN HILO @ 9:00 AM
>
> PUBLIC TESTIMONY WILL BE TAKEN
> AT 9:00 AM ON THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS:
> Res. 402-06 (Draft 2) - Equal number of meetings in West Hawai'i
> Amends Resolution No. 99-05, Rules of Procedure and Organization of
> the Council of the County of Hawai'i, Relating to Meetings. {Provides
> that the Council shall hold regular meetings in East Hawai'i on
> odd-numbered months and regular meetings in West Hawai'i on
> even-numbered months.}
>
> Draft 2 adds provisions to have videoconference available and
> specifies January 1, 2007, as the start date for the new meeting
> schedule SUPPORT EQUAL NUMBER OF MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAII COME OUT AND
> TESTIFY FOR FAIR AND EQUITABLE REPRESENTATION Previous vote in
> Committee (5-4) gave this reso. a favorable recommendation
> Ayes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Safarik, Isbell
> Noes: Higa, Arakaki, Holschuh, Ikeda
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> ---------------
> Res. 383-06
> INITIATES INTERIM AMENDMENTS TO THE GENERAL PLAN FOR LANDS ADJOINING
> HONOKOHAU HARBOR AT KEALAKEHE, DISTRICT OF NORTH KONA
> * Directs Planning Director to conduct a feasibility study to amend
> the General Plan to include Open, Resort, and Urban Expansion area
> designations within lands adjacent to Honokohau Boat Harbor.
> * Allows for expansion and development by Jacoby of lands owned by the
> State Dept. of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) and the State Dept.Of Land
> and Natural Resources (DLNR)
> * Moves forward General Plan amendments that opens the door for the
> Jacoby Project - an enormous Resort Development with 3 Hotels, 700
> Timeshares, and Private Marina.
> * Planning Director does not support this Resolution 383-06
> Concern: This action is premature - No EIS - It is a "growth generator"
> and may not be consistent with the outcome of the Community
> Development Plan (CDP) Previous vote in Committee (5-2) gave this
> reso. a favorable recommendation
> Ayes: Higa, Holschuh, Isbell, Ikeda, Safarik
> Noes: Pilago, Jacobson
> Absent: Hoffmann, Arakaki
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> ------------------
> Res. 407-06
> REQUESTS A SMOKING BAN AT KAHALU'U BEACH PARK.
> * Requested by the West Hawai'i Youth Fishery Council that an
> ordinance be prepared prohibiting smoking at Kahalu'u Beach Park and a
> fine of $100 be imposed.
> * The youth were moved to support this after picking up over 3,000
> cigarette butts in 1/2 hour at the beach Received unanimous support
> from Committee
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> -----------------------
> PUBLIC TESTIMONY WILL BE TAKEN
> AT 9:45 AM ON
> Bill 308 - to Split the Planning Commission:
>
> Bill 308
> AN ORDINANCE TO INITIATE A CHARTER AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE VI,CHAPTER 4,
> SECTION 6-4.3, HAWAI'I COUNTY CHARTER (2000), RELATING TO BIFURCATING
> THE PLANNING COMMISSION INTO AN EAST HAWAI'I PLANNING COMMISSION AND A
> WEST HAWAI'I PLANNING COMMISSION Divides the Planning Commission into
> an East Hawai'i Planning Commission comprised of Districts 1, 2, 3, 4
> and 5; and a West Hawai'i Planning Commission comprised of Districts
> 6, 7, 8 and 9
> * The intent of Bill 308 is to ease the Planning Commission calendar
> and allow commissioners, representative of East Hawaii and
> commissioners representative of West Hawaii to address matters
> specific to their districts.
> * THIS BILL REQUIRES 3 READINGS TO MEET REQUIREMENTS FOR CHARTER
> AMENDMENTS AND MUST PASS THIS (1st) READING TO MOVE FORWARD
> * Corporation Counsel has determined if a Special Meeting is called,
> there is enough time to get this on the ballot. It needs 6 votes to
> move forward.
> TESTIFY IN SUPPORT OF THIS CHANGE TO THE PLANNING PROCESS ON AUGUST
> 1st IF IT GETS 6 VOTES IT MOVES FORWARD IF NOT, IT DIES YOUR TESTIMONY
> IS CRITICALLY IMPORTANT Previous vote in Committee (2-5) gave this
> reso. a negative recommendation
> Ayes: Pilago, Isbell
> Noes: Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Jacobson, Safarik
> Absent: Arakaki, Hoffmann
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> ---------------------------
>
> For complete agenda
> click on link below:
> http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
>
> If you cannot testify in person, please send Via email:
> counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
> cc:
> kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
> FAX
> 961-8912
> 329-4786
> Mahalo
> Angel, Maile, Karen
> Call our office at 327-3642 for more information
> PLANNING COMMITTEE
> MEETS IN HILO @ 1:00 PM
> To Discuss Planning Director Initiated INTERIM GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENTS
>
> Testify via videoconference
> From Kona and Waimea
>
> Public testimony taken at 1:00 PM
>
> Comm. 964:
> (BILL 309)
> AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI'I COUNTY GENERAL PLAN, AS ADOPTED BY
> ORDINANCE NO. 05-25 Amends text, policies, courses of action, Land Use
> Pattern Allocation Guide [LUPAG] Map and Facilities Map in the
> Districts of Puna, South Hilo, Hamakua, North Kohala, North and South
> Kona and Ka'u.
> (Planning Director Initiated)
>
> * The above Bill 309 carries a favorable recommendation from the
> Planning Commission to the proposed amendments, with the exception of
> a proposed map change F-2 and A-1.
> * Proposed F-2 would change the County Land Use Designation of almost
> 100 acres on the Pali, directly above the Conservation area over
> Kealakeua Bay, from Important Agricultural Lands to Rural.
> * The Planning Commission voted to delete the F-2 change to protect
> the Agricultural Lands
> * Our office has received and forwarded to Hilo over 20 letters
> supporting deletion of the F-2 amendment and upholding the General
> Plan mandate to protect Natural Resources, Natural Beauty, Coastal
> Resources and Unique Habitat.
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> --------------------------
> TUESDAY, AUGUST 1st
> COUNCIL
> MEETS IN HILO @ 9:00 AM
>
> PUBLIC TESTIMONY WILL BE TAKEN
> AT 9:00 AM ON THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS:
> Res. 402-06 (Draft 2) - Equal number of meetings in West Hawai'i
> Amends Resolution No. 99-05, Rules of Procedure and Organization of
> the Council of the County of Hawai'i, Relating to Meetings. {Provides
> that the Council shall hold regular meetings in East Hawai'i on
> odd-numbered months and regular meetings in West Hawai'i on
> even-numbered months.}
>
> Draft 2 adds provisions to have videoconference available and
> specifies January 1, 2007, as the start date for the new meeting
> schedule SUPPORT EQUAL NUMBER OF MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAII COME OUT AND
> TESTIFY FOR FAIR AND EQUITABLE REPRESENTATION Previous vote in
> Committee (5-4) gave this reso. a favorable recommendation
> Ayes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Safarik, Isbell
> Noes: Higa, Arakaki, Holschuh, Ikeda
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> ---------------
> Res. 383-06
> INITIATES INTERIM AMENDMENTS TO THE GENERAL PLAN FOR LANDS ADJOINING
> HONOKOHAU HARBOR AT KEALAKEHE, DISTRICT OF NORTH KONA
> * Directs Planning Director to conduct a feasibility study to amend
> the General Plan to include Open, Resort, and Urban Expansion area
> designations within lands adjacent to Honokohau Boat Harbor.
> * Allows for expansion and development by Jacoby of lands owned by the
> State Dept. of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) and the State Dept.Of Land
> and Natural Resources (DLNR)
> * Moves forward General Plan amendments that opens the door for the
> Jacoby Project - an enormous Resort Development with 3 Hotels, 700
> Timeshares, and Private Marina.
> * Planning Director does not support this Resolution 383-06
> Concern: This action is premature - No EIS - It is a "growth generator"
> and may not be consistent with the outcome of the Community
> Development Plan (CDP) Previous vote in Committee (5-2) gave this
> reso. a favorable recommendation
> Ayes: Higa, Holschuh, Isbell, Ikeda, Safarik
> Noes: Pilago, Jacobson
> Absent: Hoffmann, Arakaki
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> ------------------
> Res. 407-06
> REQUESTS A SMOKING BAN AT KAHALU'U BEACH PARK.
> * Requested by the West Hawai'i Youth Fishery Council that an
> ordinance be prepared prohibiting smoking at Kahalu'u Beach Park and a
> fine of $100 be imposed.
> * The youth were moved to support this after picking up over 3,000
> cigarette butts in 1/2 hour at the beach Received unanimous support
> from Committee
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> -----------------------
> PUBLIC TESTIMONY WILL BE TAKEN
> AT 9:45 AM ON
> Bill 308 - to Split the Planning Commission:
>
> Bill 308
> AN ORDINANCE TO INITIATE A CHARTER AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE VI,CHAPTER 4,
> SECTION 6-4.3, HAWAI'I COUNTY CHARTER (2000), RELATING TO BIFURCATING
> THE PLANNING COMMISSION INTO AN EAST HAWAI'I PLANNING COMMISSION AND A
> WEST HAWAI'I PLANNING COMMISSION Divides the Planning Commission into
> an East Hawai'i Planning Commission comprised of Districts 1, 2, 3, 4
> and 5; and a West Hawai'i Planning Commission comprised of Districts
> 6, 7, 8 and 9
> * The intent of Bill 308 is to ease the Planning Commission calendar
> and allow commissioners, representative of East Hawaii and
> commissioners representative of West Hawaii to address matters
> specific to their districts.
> * THIS BILL REQUIRES 3 READINGS TO MEET REQUIREMENTS FOR CHARTER
> AMENDMENTS AND MUST PASS THIS (1st) READING TO MOVE FORWARD
> * Corporation Counsel has determined if a Special Meeting is called,
> there is enough time to get this on the ballot. It needs 6 votes to
> move forward.
> TESTIFY IN SUPPORT OF THIS CHANGE TO THE PLANNING PROCESS ON AUGUST
> 1st IF IT GETS 6 VOTES IT MOVES FORWARD IF NOT, IT DIES YOUR TESTIMONY
> IS CRITICALLY IMPORTANT Previous vote in Committee (2-5) gave this
> reso. a negative recommendation
> Ayes: Pilago, Isbell
> Noes: Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Jacobson, Safarik
> Absent: Arakaki, Hoffmann
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> ---------------------------
>
> For complete agenda
> click on link below:
> http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
>
> If you cannot testify in person, please send Via email:
> counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
> cc:
> kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
> FAX
> 961-8912
> 329-4786
> Mahalo
> Angel, Maile, Karen
> Call our office at 327-3642 for more information
County Council Mtg in Waikoloa
July 27, Thursday County Council Chair, Stacy Higa 6-8 PM at Waikoloa elementary school
>
> Please note the following and please pass it on to all those you know in
> the
> community, especially those involved with the CDP process. This is a high
> ranking County elected official who by all reports plans to run for Mayor
> at
> the next election who should hear what people in Waikoloa Village want and
> need.
>
> July 27, Thursday, at the Waikoloa School Cafeteria, from 6-8 PM, Hawaii
> County Council Chair, Stacy Higa, will be available to answer questions
> from
> Waikoloa Residents.
>
> This is a great opportunity to question him on the disparity that exists
> between East and West Hawaii as well as specific topics such as additional
> roads in and out of Waikoloa, need for permanent police presence in
> Waikoloa, additional staffing and equipment at the fire station, lack of
> maintenance at Puu Nui Park and when will the Hooko Street park ever be
> completed?
>
> Regards,
> John
>
> Please note the following and please pass it on to all those you know in
> the
> community, especially those involved with the CDP process. This is a high
> ranking County elected official who by all reports plans to run for Mayor
> at
> the next election who should hear what people in Waikoloa Village want and
> need.
>
> July 27, Thursday, at the Waikoloa School Cafeteria, from 6-8 PM, Hawaii
> County Council Chair, Stacy Higa, will be available to answer questions
> from
> Waikoloa Residents.
>
> This is a great opportunity to question him on the disparity that exists
> between East and West Hawaii as well as specific topics such as additional
> roads in and out of Waikoloa, need for permanent police presence in
> Waikoloa, additional staffing and equipment at the fire station, lack of
> maintenance at Puu Nui Park and when will the Hooko Street park ever be
> completed?
>
> Regards,
> John
Responses from Coastview/Wonderview
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hi Susan,
Thank you for responding to that person! I had no idea where to begin with a response after reading his email.
Thanks again for everything you do :)
I think you are right and this is the same guy. I would like to say that a lot of us are very appreciative for all of your help in this ongoing drama. You have been very informative and helpful so please disregard this one man who is obviously a very unhappy person.
Sue
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
very good letter. you just don't get it. there are a lot of people who
don't need your "help." i have spoken with several of them. i have also
been in contact with persons in authority over the last several months
with the same response. there's a time to speak up and a time to keep
your mouth shut. surely you are smart enough to know that. and speaking
of snide letters, i do happen to care about kona and i care about my
neighbors also.
John Carlstrom
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hi Susan,
Thank you for responding to that person! I had no idea where to begin with a response after reading his email.
Thanks again for everything you do :)
I think you are right and this is the same guy. I would like to say that a lot of us are very appreciative for all of your help in this ongoing drama. You have been very informative and helpful so please disregard this one man who is obviously a very unhappy person.
Sue
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
very good letter. you just don't get it. there are a lot of people who
don't need your "help." i have spoken with several of them. i have also
been in contact with persons in authority over the last several months
with the same response. there's a time to speak up and a time to keep
your mouth shut. surely you are smart enough to know that. and speaking
of snide letters, i do happen to care about kona and i care about my
neighbors also.
John Carlstrom
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coastview/ Wonderview Water gets SOUR.
Dear Trojan,
For your information over 2 million dollars for this project came from the Federal Government (USDA-Rural Urban Development). The system MUST be built to code in order to get the funding. The code in Hawaii County is six inches of sand covering the pipe. They aren’t trying to cut us some slack as you stated but infact the building inspector (Joe Gary) said at the meeting to do what you want with your pipe. Unfortunately Joe’s BOSS in Hilo said “NO, this is not acceptable”. The lack of professional representation at the meeting sent the whole project into turmoil.
The Thousands of dollars you speak of is for Hammering down 12 inches, which was not necessary.
For your information I dug my own hole and layed my own pipe. I am now waiting for a licensed plumber to hook us up.
Running the pipe on top of the ground is not only unsightly but not allowed by the Federal Government standards. This system was to UP GRADE the water system and not recreate another spaghetti line system. We are not asking for something illegal or under the table. We just want straight answers from the County. A simple diagram at the meeting would have answered a lot of questions.
The System would have been accepted had the County properly informed the homeowners of the process and charges involved.
During the process Milton Pavao (The County Water Department Manager) always said (at every meeting) the pipe from the street to your property is your own responsibility. The FACT is he should have said: You will need to dig a hole and pull a permit and have a licensed plumber hook it up and here is the phone number to the building department. This lack of proper disclosure has created a huge problem for the plumbers that don’t want to risk their licenses. This lack of proper disclosure has also cost us far more money then ever disclosed.
Your snide letter is not appreciated due to the fact that we have worked so hard for so long to improve the water and roads. Coastview/ Wonderview is a cutting edge place to live. We have the new water, new roads and great location.
Run your pipe as you see fit, and hopefully you will get a licensed plumber to hook you up.
Good Luck!
Respectfully,
Mrs. McGeachy
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Sue and Susan,
I'm running my line on top of the ground.I was told (can't say by who, but it was a person in government) that if we keep asking for them to "put it in writing", we are going to have to go with the same code as new construction. They are TRYING to cut us some slack and let us do it the sensible way, but if you keep bugging them for assurances, they are NOT going to put their own asses on the record telling us to break the code. They will look the other way if people just quit bugging them! I have this on pretty good authority from a person in a position to know. I don't know how you put the word out on this, but I feel confident that if it ends up on a web site we will all be spending THOUSANDS to bury our pipes in 18 inches of sand. They let us get away with spaghetti lines and all the other BS for 30 years--hell, they let Lillian walk off with 700 LARGE of our fees. You don't think they will cut us a break? Everyone will be happy to have this thing solved with a little black pipe running along the edge of the lots. They don't CARE but you can't get them to put it in writing that it's ok to bend the rules. They won't do it and if you keep asking, they are going to force us all to bury the pipes.I really hope people will stop demanding assurances they are never going to get and just run the damn pipe any way they want and shut UP. Once everything is in and working the inspectors are going to wink at it UNLESS it can jeopardize their jobs. Then they will have no choice and we will all be screwed. If people are worried and have the money, why don't they just bury the pipe according to the current code? If they're like me and are strapped, do it as cheaply as they can and keep quiet! The worst that can happen is at some point they'll tell you to burry the pipe! You will have to disconnect from your house and meter, bury the pipe and reconnect. Won't cost any more than doing it that way to begin with, but if you lay it on top and are left alone, you save thousands. And you know what? If you ever have a leak, it will be a heck of a lot easier to locate and repair!If I have to bury my pipe, I will not only have to borrow the money, it will damage or kill my fruit trees because I'll have to cut through their roots. I'm going to throw some dirt over the pipe near the meter as a courtesy to the inspectors, and be done with it.I don't blame people for wanting assurances, but this is Kona and we have a few people who remember how to help their neighbors. The inspectors know that most of us could never afford our homes at todays prices. They know we have 3 or 4 breadwinners per household. Let them help us by not putting their jobs on the line, OK?I've even been told by another neighbor that Isimoto told him that if he ran his pipe up to the meter, they would connect it for free. He said they are licensed plumbers and when he talked to them, they made no mention of a permit. Who knows on that one, but the point is, connect your water as cheaply as you can. Put in your back flow preventer if you have irrigation because that's a health concern to your neighbors and that will be that. Once you are using county water they are not going to turn it off because your pipe is on top of the ground! They MIGHT tell you to bury it, but only if people keep demanding assurances in writing that they don't have to.They are trying to help us out. Let them, ok? Bury your pipe if you want to, but for the sake of your un-rich neighbors, please don't ask them about this again.Thanks Trojan
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aloha Shari and Milton,
Can you please address Sue’s questions? Joe Gary said at the meeting that the line can be run on top of the ground.
Please address this.
Thank you,
Susan McGeachy
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aloha Susan,
Hopefully you can help answer this question because I cant seem to get through to the Water Dept.....
We have been gone on vacation and are trying to find out exactly how the water line issue ended up. Do we have to bury the line or not? If we do how deep, etc. because the last I heard at the meeting was that we just needed to cover it with sand.
Please let me know.
Thanks,
Sue Hams
For your information over 2 million dollars for this project came from the Federal Government (USDA-Rural Urban Development). The system MUST be built to code in order to get the funding. The code in Hawaii County is six inches of sand covering the pipe. They aren’t trying to cut us some slack as you stated but infact the building inspector (Joe Gary) said at the meeting to do what you want with your pipe. Unfortunately Joe’s BOSS in Hilo said “NO, this is not acceptable”. The lack of professional representation at the meeting sent the whole project into turmoil.
The Thousands of dollars you speak of is for Hammering down 12 inches, which was not necessary.
For your information I dug my own hole and layed my own pipe. I am now waiting for a licensed plumber to hook us up.
Running the pipe on top of the ground is not only unsightly but not allowed by the Federal Government standards. This system was to UP GRADE the water system and not recreate another spaghetti line system. We are not asking for something illegal or under the table. We just want straight answers from the County. A simple diagram at the meeting would have answered a lot of questions.
The System would have been accepted had the County properly informed the homeowners of the process and charges involved.
During the process Milton Pavao (The County Water Department Manager) always said (at every meeting) the pipe from the street to your property is your own responsibility. The FACT is he should have said: You will need to dig a hole and pull a permit and have a licensed plumber hook it up and here is the phone number to the building department. This lack of proper disclosure has created a huge problem for the plumbers that don’t want to risk their licenses. This lack of proper disclosure has also cost us far more money then ever disclosed.
Your snide letter is not appreciated due to the fact that we have worked so hard for so long to improve the water and roads. Coastview/ Wonderview is a cutting edge place to live. We have the new water, new roads and great location.
Run your pipe as you see fit, and hopefully you will get a licensed plumber to hook you up.
Good Luck!
Respectfully,
Mrs. McGeachy
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Sue and Susan,
I'm running my line on top of the ground.I was told (can't say by who, but it was a person in government) that if we keep asking for them to "put it in writing", we are going to have to go with the same code as new construction. They are TRYING to cut us some slack and let us do it the sensible way, but if you keep bugging them for assurances, they are NOT going to put their own asses on the record telling us to break the code. They will look the other way if people just quit bugging them! I have this on pretty good authority from a person in a position to know. I don't know how you put the word out on this, but I feel confident that if it ends up on a web site we will all be spending THOUSANDS to bury our pipes in 18 inches of sand. They let us get away with spaghetti lines and all the other BS for 30 years--hell, they let Lillian walk off with 700 LARGE of our fees. You don't think they will cut us a break? Everyone will be happy to have this thing solved with a little black pipe running along the edge of the lots. They don't CARE but you can't get them to put it in writing that it's ok to bend the rules. They won't do it and if you keep asking, they are going to force us all to bury the pipes.I really hope people will stop demanding assurances they are never going to get and just run the damn pipe any way they want and shut UP. Once everything is in and working the inspectors are going to wink at it UNLESS it can jeopardize their jobs. Then they will have no choice and we will all be screwed. If people are worried and have the money, why don't they just bury the pipe according to the current code? If they're like me and are strapped, do it as cheaply as they can and keep quiet! The worst that can happen is at some point they'll tell you to burry the pipe! You will have to disconnect from your house and meter, bury the pipe and reconnect. Won't cost any more than doing it that way to begin with, but if you lay it on top and are left alone, you save thousands. And you know what? If you ever have a leak, it will be a heck of a lot easier to locate and repair!If I have to bury my pipe, I will not only have to borrow the money, it will damage or kill my fruit trees because I'll have to cut through their roots. I'm going to throw some dirt over the pipe near the meter as a courtesy to the inspectors, and be done with it.I don't blame people for wanting assurances, but this is Kona and we have a few people who remember how to help their neighbors. The inspectors know that most of us could never afford our homes at todays prices. They know we have 3 or 4 breadwinners per household. Let them help us by not putting their jobs on the line, OK?I've even been told by another neighbor that Isimoto told him that if he ran his pipe up to the meter, they would connect it for free. He said they are licensed plumbers and when he talked to them, they made no mention of a permit. Who knows on that one, but the point is, connect your water as cheaply as you can. Put in your back flow preventer if you have irrigation because that's a health concern to your neighbors and that will be that. Once you are using county water they are not going to turn it off because your pipe is on top of the ground! They MIGHT tell you to bury it, but only if people keep demanding assurances in writing that they don't have to.They are trying to help us out. Let them, ok? Bury your pipe if you want to, but for the sake of your un-rich neighbors, please don't ask them about this again.Thanks Trojan
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aloha Shari and Milton,
Can you please address Sue’s questions? Joe Gary said at the meeting that the line can be run on top of the ground.
Please address this.
Thank you,
Susan McGeachy
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aloha Susan,
Hopefully you can help answer this question because I cant seem to get through to the Water Dept.....
We have been gone on vacation and are trying to find out exactly how the water line issue ended up. Do we have to bury the line or not? If we do how deep, etc. because the last I heard at the meeting was that we just needed to cover it with sand.
Please let me know.
Thanks,
Sue Hams
Friday, July 21, 2006
Thank you for your help.
Hello Everyone-Thank you so much for your help and support on this very important issue. All our hard work paid off. We've motivated people and empowered voters to get excited about saving our land. A Quick Update: On Wednesday the Hawaii County Council voted 8 votes for and 1 vote absent (Arakaki) to give the us a Certificate of Sufficiency and to put the measure on the Ballot in November. Our final count was almost 10,000 signatures and we questioned their criteria on the record at the meeting. The Council also recognized that the Petition Initiative process needs to be more clearly defined and hopefully we will help write a new Ordinance to accomplish that. It's time to support the work of the Open Space Commission and save our treasured lands for our children and grandchildren. Mahalo!!NEXT STEPS: to get people to the polls and get them to vote "YES" for 2% for Open Space
Register people to vote- use the attach voter registration form and find one person to register to vote.
Educate family and friends- I've attached an information sheet to read and pass along.
Volunteer to help us
Donate money for advertising and printing
Get out the vote:
Last day to register to vote in the Primary Election is August 24
Primary Election is September 23rd
Last day to register in the General Election is October 9th
General election is November 7th.A solid vote in favor of this measure at the polls will send a strong message to our elected officials that they should NOT raid this fund like they did in June. Working together we can make this happen!A HUGE mahalo!-- Debbie Hecht, Coordinator, Save Our Lands Citizens CommitteeP.O. Box 4148Kailua-Kona, HI 96745(808) 989-3222
Register people to vote- use the attach voter registration form and find one person to register to vote.
Educate family and friends- I've attached an information sheet to read and pass along.
Volunteer to help us
Donate money for advertising and printing
Get out the vote:
Last day to register to vote in the Primary Election is August 24
Primary Election is September 23rd
Last day to register in the General Election is October 9th
General election is November 7th.A solid vote in favor of this measure at the polls will send a strong message to our elected officials that they should NOT raid this fund like they did in June. Working together we can make this happen!A HUGE mahalo!-- Debbie Hecht, Coordinator, Save Our Lands Citizens CommitteeP.O. Box 4148Kailua-Kona, HI 96745(808) 989-3222
Friday, July 14, 2006
Watada's father comes to Kona-NO WAR!
1st Lt. Ehren Watadas father Bob Watada will be in Kona on Saturday and Sunday at the Aloha Theater to speak about his sons position in resisting deployment to Iraq, the charges against him by the Army, and plans for his defense. After his talk and a brief clip of Ehren speaking about this experience, there will be a showing of the film Sir, No Sir the new documentary chronicling the GI resistance to the Viet Nam war. There will be a question and answer session after the film with Mr. Watada.For those of you who really want to show your appreciation to Mr. Watada for flying in from Honolulu to speak in Kona, he lands at the Kona Airport on Saturday at 5:18 pm with Hawaiian Airlines. There will be a welcoming party to greet him there with leis and warm thanks. Please join this group if you can and really show how much Kona supports his son Ehren and the whole Watada family. This cannot be an easy thing to go through with the whole nation watching
The Council Meeting comes to KONA
JULY 18th COMMITTEE MEETINGS
> WILL BE HELD IN HILO
>
> JULY 19th COUNCIL MEETING
> WILL BE HELD IN KONA
>
>
> Tuesday, July 18th - 2:00 PM - PLANNING COMMITTEE IN HILO
>
> Public Testimony can be given via videoconference from Kona and
> Waimea, or in person in Hilo Written Testimony should be addressed to
> Chairman Pilago and Committee Members
> Email to: counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
> cc: kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
> FAX to: 961-8912 & 329-4786
>
> Comm. 939 (Resolution 383-06)
> A RESOLUTION TO INITIATE INTERIM AMENDMENTS TO THE GENERAL PLAN FOR
> LANDS ADJOINING HONOKOHAU HARBOR AT KEALAKEHE, DISTRICT OF NORTH KONA
> (directs the Planning Director to conduct a study to determine the
> feasibility of amending the General Plan; and the General Plan Land
> Use Pattern Allocation Guide map to include Open, Resort, and Urban
> Expansion area designations within the lands situated at and adjacent
> to the Honokohau Small Boat
> * Reso. opens the way for the Jacoby Development at Kealakehe
> * Action is premature - State permitting process in preliminary stage
> * Current General Plan designates this area as Open and Urban ( not
> Resort )
> * Planning Director does not support resolution
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------
>
> Comm. 963 (BILL 308)
> AN ORDINANCE TO INITIATE A CHARTER AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE VI, CHAPTER 4,
> SECTION 6-4.3, HAWAI'I COUNTY CHARTER (2000), RELATING TO BIFURCATING
> THE PLANNING COMMISSION INTO AN EAST HAWAI'I PLANNING COMMISSION AND A
> WEST HAWAI'I PLANNING COMMISSION (divides the Planning Commission into
> an East Hawai'i Planning Commission comprised of Districts 1, 2, 3, 4
> and 5; and a West Hawai'i Planning Commission comprised of Districts
> 6, 7, 8 and 9)
>
> Two Planning Commissions:
> * East made up of members from Hamakua, Hilo (2), and Lower Puna
> Districts
> * West includes Kohala, Kona (2-No. & So.) and Upper Puna Districts
>
> * Bill 308 would give the voters a chance to decide.
> * If enacted, would enable W. Hawai'i to better mitigate
> infrastructure problems.
> * Waste management, traffic, water, planning issues better addressed
> by affected districts
>
> --------------------------------------
>
> Wednesday, July 19th - COUNCIL MEETING IN KONA @ Sheraton Keauhou
>
> Statements from the Public at the following times:
> 9:00 am - Resolutions
> 10:30 am - Bills for First Reading
> 1:30 pm - Bills for Second and Final Reading
>
> Written Testimony should be addressed to Chairman Higa and Committee
> Members
> Email to: counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
> cc: kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
> FAX to: 961-8912 & 329-4786
>
>
> 9:00 AM PUBLIC TESTIMONY ON RESOLUTIONS:
>
> RESOLUTION 381-06 (DRAFT 4)
> TEMPORARILY DELAYS COUNCIL ACTION ON REZONING APPLICATIONS IN THE
> DISTRICTS OF NORTH AND SOUTH KONA UNTIL THE NORTH AND SOUTH KONA
> COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN IS ADOPTED BY ORDINANCE, OR UNTIL JANUARY
> 1, 2007, WHICHEVER SHALL OCCUR FIRST.
> * This delay, or "pause" will give us time to catch up and improve
> infrastructure: roads, water, traffic situation, waste reduction and
> recycling programs.
> * Draft 4 Amendments incorporate concerns of Councilmembers including
> an exception for "public projects involving schools, water and sewer
> systems, and any other projects that specifically benefit the public's
> health, safety and welfare."
>
> Passed 1st hurdle - out of committee - with 5 to 4 vote!
> Support: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Safarik and Isbell
> Oppose: Higa, Arakaki, Ikeda, Holschuh
>
> One more challenge to get it passed through Council - NEEDS 5 VOTES
>
> Contact your Council Rep.
> Support from all districts important for resolution to pass!
>
> -----------------------------------------------------------------
> RESOLUTION 402-06
> AMENDS RESOLUTION NO. 99-05, RULES OF PROCEDURE AND ORGANIZATION OF
> THE COUNCIL OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI'I, RELATING TO MEETINGS. {PROVIDES
> THAT THE COUNCIL SHALL HOLD REGULAR MEETINGS IN EAST HAWAI'I ON
> ODD-NUMBERED MONTHS AND REGULAR MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAI'I ON
> EVEN-NUMBERED MONTHS.} Draft 2 will add:
> * Provisions for video-conferencing for all meetings held outside of
> Hilo
> * Start date of January 2007 to give time to budget & find an
> economical location
> * A review date of December 2007
>
> Reso. 402 will give Kona, Ka'u, Puna, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa equal
> access to government.
> Passed out of Finance committee - with 5 to 4 vote
> Support: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Safarik and Isbell
> Oppose: Higa, Arakaki, Ikeda, Holschuh
>
> One more challenge to get it passed through Council - NEEDS 5 VOTES
> Support from all districts important for both the above resolutions to
> pass!
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> ------------------------
>
> RESOLUTION 410-06
> RELATING TO INITIATIVE PETITION FILED BY THE SAVE OUR LAND CITIZENS'
> COMMITTEE TO LET VOTERS DECIDE ON 2% TAX SET ASIDE TO ACQUIRE LANDS
> FOR OPEN SPACE
> * Clerk's office determined petition did not have enough valid
> signatures
> * Council can make own determination
> * Recognizing the efforts put forth by the Save Our Lands Committee,
> Council will consider Bill 315 (see below)
>
> ------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> 10:30 AM PUBLIC TESTIMONY ON BILLS FOR FIRST READING:
>
> BILL 315
> RELATING TO THE PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES
> PRESERVATION FUND
>
> * Proposes the Council adopt proposed Ordinance to require 2% of
> Property Tax be committed to the Public Access, Open Space, and
> Natural Resources Preservation Fund and deletes the $5,000,000 cap.
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> ---------------
Call the Kona Office @ 327-3642 for copies of agenda items
> To View Complete Agenda, click on link:
> http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
>
>
>
> Please forward this email
> Your participation will make a difference
>
> Angel, Maile, Karen
>
> Councilman K. Angel Pilago
> District 8, North Kona
> 808-327-3642
> WILL BE HELD IN HILO
>
> JULY 19th COUNCIL MEETING
> WILL BE HELD IN KONA
>
>
> Tuesday, July 18th - 2:00 PM - PLANNING COMMITTEE IN HILO
>
> Public Testimony can be given via videoconference from Kona and
> Waimea, or in person in Hilo Written Testimony should be addressed to
> Chairman Pilago and Committee Members
> Email to: counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
> cc: kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
> FAX to: 961-8912 & 329-4786
>
> Comm. 939 (Resolution 383-06)
> A RESOLUTION TO INITIATE INTERIM AMENDMENTS TO THE GENERAL PLAN FOR
> LANDS ADJOINING HONOKOHAU HARBOR AT KEALAKEHE, DISTRICT OF NORTH KONA
> (directs the Planning Director to conduct a study to determine the
> feasibility of amending the General Plan; and the General Plan Land
> Use Pattern Allocation Guide map to include Open, Resort, and Urban
> Expansion area designations within the lands situated at and adjacent
> to the Honokohau Small Boat
> * Reso. opens the way for the Jacoby Development at Kealakehe
> * Action is premature - State permitting process in preliminary stage
> * Current General Plan designates this area as Open and Urban ( not
> Resort )
> * Planning Director does not support resolution
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------
>
> Comm. 963 (BILL 308)
> AN ORDINANCE TO INITIATE A CHARTER AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE VI, CHAPTER 4,
> SECTION 6-4.3, HAWAI'I COUNTY CHARTER (2000), RELATING TO BIFURCATING
> THE PLANNING COMMISSION INTO AN EAST HAWAI'I PLANNING COMMISSION AND A
> WEST HAWAI'I PLANNING COMMISSION (divides the Planning Commission into
> an East Hawai'i Planning Commission comprised of Districts 1, 2, 3, 4
> and 5; and a West Hawai'i Planning Commission comprised of Districts
> 6, 7, 8 and 9)
>
> Two Planning Commissions:
> * East made up of members from Hamakua, Hilo (2), and Lower Puna
> Districts
> * West includes Kohala, Kona (2-No. & So.) and Upper Puna Districts
>
> * Bill 308 would give the voters a chance to decide.
> * If enacted, would enable W. Hawai'i to better mitigate
> infrastructure problems.
> * Waste management, traffic, water, planning issues better addressed
> by affected districts
>
> --------------------------------------
>
> Wednesday, July 19th - COUNCIL MEETING IN KONA @ Sheraton Keauhou
>
> Statements from the Public at the following times:
> 9:00 am - Resolutions
> 10:30 am - Bills for First Reading
> 1:30 pm - Bills for Second and Final Reading
>
> Written Testimony should be addressed to Chairman Higa and Committee
> Members
> Email to: counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
> cc: kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
> FAX to: 961-8912 & 329-4786
>
>
> 9:00 AM PUBLIC TESTIMONY ON RESOLUTIONS:
>
> RESOLUTION 381-06 (DRAFT 4)
> TEMPORARILY DELAYS COUNCIL ACTION ON REZONING APPLICATIONS IN THE
> DISTRICTS OF NORTH AND SOUTH KONA UNTIL THE NORTH AND SOUTH KONA
> COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN IS ADOPTED BY ORDINANCE, OR UNTIL JANUARY
> 1, 2007, WHICHEVER SHALL OCCUR FIRST.
> * This delay, or "pause" will give us time to catch up and improve
> infrastructure: roads, water, traffic situation, waste reduction and
> recycling programs.
> * Draft 4 Amendments incorporate concerns of Councilmembers including
> an exception for "public projects involving schools, water and sewer
> systems, and any other projects that specifically benefit the public's
> health, safety and welfare."
>
> Passed 1st hurdle - out of committee - with 5 to 4 vote!
> Support: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Safarik and Isbell
> Oppose: Higa, Arakaki, Ikeda, Holschuh
>
> One more challenge to get it passed through Council - NEEDS 5 VOTES
>
> Contact your Council Rep.
> Support from all districts important for resolution to pass!
>
> -----------------------------------------------------------------
> RESOLUTION 402-06
> AMENDS RESOLUTION NO. 99-05, RULES OF PROCEDURE AND ORGANIZATION OF
> THE COUNCIL OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI'I, RELATING TO MEETINGS. {PROVIDES
> THAT THE COUNCIL SHALL HOLD REGULAR MEETINGS IN EAST HAWAI'I ON
> ODD-NUMBERED MONTHS AND REGULAR MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAI'I ON
> EVEN-NUMBERED MONTHS.} Draft 2 will add:
> * Provisions for video-conferencing for all meetings held outside of
> Hilo
> * Start date of January 2007 to give time to budget & find an
> economical location
> * A review date of December 2007
>
> Reso. 402 will give Kona, Ka'u, Puna, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa equal
> access to government.
> Passed out of Finance committee - with 5 to 4 vote
> Support: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Safarik and Isbell
> Oppose: Higa, Arakaki, Ikeda, Holschuh
>
> One more challenge to get it passed through Council - NEEDS 5 VOTES
> Support from all districts important for both the above resolutions to
> pass!
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> ------------------------
>
> RESOLUTION 410-06
> RELATING TO INITIATIVE PETITION FILED BY THE SAVE OUR LAND CITIZENS'
> COMMITTEE TO LET VOTERS DECIDE ON 2% TAX SET ASIDE TO ACQUIRE LANDS
> FOR OPEN SPACE
> * Clerk's office determined petition did not have enough valid
> signatures
> * Council can make own determination
> * Recognizing the efforts put forth by the Save Our Lands Committee,
> Council will consider Bill 315 (see below)
>
> ------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> 10:30 AM PUBLIC TESTIMONY ON BILLS FOR FIRST READING:
>
> BILL 315
> RELATING TO THE PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES
> PRESERVATION FUND
>
> * Proposes the Council adopt proposed Ordinance to require 2% of
> Property Tax be committed to the Public Access, Open Space, and
> Natural Resources Preservation Fund and deletes the $5,000,000 cap.
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> ---------------
Call the Kona Office @ 327-3642 for copies of agenda items
> To View Complete Agenda, click on link:
> http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
>
>
>
> Please forward this email
> Your participation will make a difference
>
> Angel, Maile, Karen
>
> Councilman K. Angel Pilago
> District 8, North Kona
> 808-327-3642
Saturday, July 08, 2006
Does Anyone Care? Lets hear from you.
This sounds like a pretty wild speculation, doesn't it? But let me state how it would be done, and then indicate how recent councilactions have set the wheels in motion. Finally, if I' ve not bored you tosleep or caused an (involuntary) hitting of the delete button,I'll suggest some ways that these council actions, which remove a levelplaying field from the next elections through 2008, might be mitigatedif others agree with my thesis and are willing to contact theirrepresentatives.Control of the political future of Hi. county until 2022 will rest with theMayor elected in 2008. Why? Because he will appoint both the nextCharter Commission (2009) and reapportionment commission (2011).
Charter Commission: May submit charter amendments to be voted upon in the next or in a special election- or it may submit a whole new charter. Either method might allow separate West Hi. planning, public works,parks&rec, water commissions, etc. In short, it could allow a vote on issues to give West Hawaii(and other parts of the county) a voice in running their government, staffed by officials living nearby rather than 100 miles away. If a Hilo Centric is Mayor, guess what the outcome will be of members on that commission? The next one is not chosen until 2019! Reapportionment Commission: This group redraws the lines for council districts. Think that population shifts to Puna and West Hi. will get those areas more representation?
Let me know if you do- I have a great used car... It depends on who is appointed to the commission. The last commission illegally counted military personnel (and possibly families) temporarily training outside Hilo, who were residents elsewhere (and who the courts ruled should not have been counted) as Hilo residents. Also UH-Hilo students who were residents of other counties. They then , even with these phony numbers, made the Hilo districts as small as possible in numbers to get more district from fewer bodies. They also gerrymandered to do Puna out of
a deserved second council district. Sure, courts have ruled aspects
of this redistricting illegal- but it still stands. Courts are loath to overturn legislative actions, and if they do, the actions are likely moot by the time action and appeals are completed. Now we can see that if a fair minded and honest person with the bestinterests of the entire county guiding him/her is not elected as the next Mayor, the county government can be controlled from Hilo until 2022. The Charter Commission will choose not to put reforms wanted by West Hi.on the ballot , and we have seen that a Hilo controlled council will not even put issues benefitting the entire county on the ballot. This is an imperial colonial government, and we are the outer colonies whose purpose is to provide revenue (pay tribute) to support Rome- excuse me, Hilo. WHY IS THIS NUT SUDDENLY TRYING TO MAKE THIS POINT? As in my earlier email to some of you, as I strolled thru Kuhio Plazalast Saturday, I saw around 70 feet of windows with American flags and Wiki-Wiki voter signs lining the aisle heading to Macy's. Wow did that catch my eye! Had I not been registered, and if it were Monday-Friday, I surely would have taken 3 minutes to register. And the same convenient location will be open many days before the election so that those voters who are usually too lazy to vote, will have the opportunity to do so without having planned on it before leaving home.
Quoting from the Council Resolution authorizing a one year lease (with continuation possible)
of 5,000 sq. ft. for $8594/month of our West Hi. tax dollars:
"WHEREAS ,the temporary move of the Election Office to Prince Kuhio Plaza could
increase voter registration and absentee voter turnout due to its high visibility , convenient public
location and a high volume of foot traffic:and..." These are exactly the reasons for using our tax dollars for this prime space- as a brilliantlygreat location to register new (Hilo) voters and encourage walk-in voting. I hear you! You are saying, 'but it is good to register voters and get out the vote!' And you arecorrect- but remember our original premise: a fair election requires a levelplaying field. If 'our' County Government spends 100k/annum for space in the most highlytrafficked mall in the county, plus 500k to $1,000,000/annum in salaries to staff theregistration effort, and zero for a like effort in the rest of the county- the playing field is not level.Kuhio Mall is probably visited daily by 95% Hilo residents. Let us just think about some numbers. Perhaps 5,000 people go through Kuhio Malldaily (I'll use a firmer number if someone can get one for me). What if just ONEof every HUNDRED- one percent- says, 'hey,I can just duck in here, register, and be a goodAmerican.' That works out to 50/day, over 1,000 per month, and up to 12,000 per annum if there arestill any unregistered Hilo residents out there. This is like giving the 3 Hilo districts the voting
power of 5-6 districts , a plurality.There is no similar effort elsewhere on the island- only volunteer efforts,
no funds to rent space, denied access to many high traffic venues (management policies
prohibit or inhibit citizen activities at many)- and besides, Hilo has these efforts aswell. It does not end there- this high traffic Mall is then effective in getting out the vote with thewalk-in voting program.This program does exist islandwide- but not in a way that balances theopportunities to vote. Ever wondered, as I have, why Hilo gets higher voterregistration and turnout than other parts of the county? Perhaps nirvana is near! At last, enlightenment!
Our representatives have set us up to ensure Hilo control of county government through 2022.
CAN ANYTHING BE DONE?
We can ask any of you with civil voting rights/legal expertise if there is any recourse to fair
elections enforcement. Aside from that, we can write our representatives requesting that the
county provide equal space and employee staffing in all other districts for voter registration and
walk-in voting, with a time period before the upcoming, and then the 2008 election to balance the access
and playing field. We must not accept the County 50% rabbit stew solution (i.e. A 50% rabbit
stew is made from one rabbit and one horse.) The foot traffic aggregates/ times must be comparable.
I am not too optimistic since one of 'our' representatives in West Hawaii helped expedite this
ploy, and sent me an email justifying it as giving no advantage to Hilo. I'll forward this letter to any of you
wishing to see it as fairness in viewing another side of the issue. And if any believe it, I will not try to sell
you a used car. However, I do have a bridge connecting San Francisco and Marin Co., beautiful to
see, and it generates terrific toll returns! Once more Mr. A has not only scored a 16 year coup as
a parting gift to the colonial slaves of West Hawaii, but done it with such finesse that our representatives
seem not to have noticed. I move that , by acclamation, we award him both ears and the tail, with
thanks also to our local Picador.
ANY COMMENT?
Please, if you have any questions, contrary responses, ideas as to how to deal with this- or
conclude that it is a mountain from a molehill- let me know by return email, or let everyone
know by posting a response on the bigisland coalition yahoo discussion group at:
www.groups.yahoo.com/groups/bigislandcoalition
I may be overreacting, or we may wake up and find that West Hawaii will be a colony until at least 2022.
What do you think? Does anyone care? Is the war in fact over, with a complete developer/Hilo
victory?
Regards- Marshall
Charter Commission: May submit charter amendments to be voted upon in the next or in a special election- or it may submit a whole new charter. Either method might allow separate West Hi. planning, public works,parks&rec, water commissions, etc. In short, it could allow a vote on issues to give West Hawaii(and other parts of the county) a voice in running their government, staffed by officials living nearby rather than 100 miles away. If a Hilo Centric is Mayor, guess what the outcome will be of members on that commission? The next one is not chosen until 2019! Reapportionment Commission: This group redraws the lines for council districts. Think that population shifts to Puna and West Hi. will get those areas more representation?
Let me know if you do- I have a great used car... It depends on who is appointed to the commission. The last commission illegally counted military personnel (and possibly families) temporarily training outside Hilo, who were residents elsewhere (and who the courts ruled should not have been counted) as Hilo residents. Also UH-Hilo students who were residents of other counties. They then , even with these phony numbers, made the Hilo districts as small as possible in numbers to get more district from fewer bodies. They also gerrymandered to do Puna out of
a deserved second council district. Sure, courts have ruled aspects
of this redistricting illegal- but it still stands. Courts are loath to overturn legislative actions, and if they do, the actions are likely moot by the time action and appeals are completed. Now we can see that if a fair minded and honest person with the bestinterests of the entire county guiding him/her is not elected as the next Mayor, the county government can be controlled from Hilo until 2022. The Charter Commission will choose not to put reforms wanted by West Hi.on the ballot , and we have seen that a Hilo controlled council will not even put issues benefitting the entire county on the ballot. This is an imperial colonial government, and we are the outer colonies whose purpose is to provide revenue (pay tribute) to support Rome- excuse me, Hilo. WHY IS THIS NUT SUDDENLY TRYING TO MAKE THIS POINT? As in my earlier email to some of you, as I strolled thru Kuhio Plazalast Saturday, I saw around 70 feet of windows with American flags and Wiki-Wiki voter signs lining the aisle heading to Macy's. Wow did that catch my eye! Had I not been registered, and if it were Monday-Friday, I surely would have taken 3 minutes to register. And the same convenient location will be open many days before the election so that those voters who are usually too lazy to vote, will have the opportunity to do so without having planned on it before leaving home.
Quoting from the Council Resolution authorizing a one year lease (with continuation possible)
of 5,000 sq. ft. for $8594/month of our West Hi. tax dollars:
"WHEREAS ,the temporary move of the Election Office to Prince Kuhio Plaza could
increase voter registration and absentee voter turnout due to its high visibility , convenient public
location and a high volume of foot traffic:and..." These are exactly the reasons for using our tax dollars for this prime space- as a brilliantlygreat location to register new (Hilo) voters and encourage walk-in voting. I hear you! You are saying, 'but it is good to register voters and get out the vote!' And you arecorrect- but remember our original premise: a fair election requires a levelplaying field. If 'our' County Government spends 100k/annum for space in the most highlytrafficked mall in the county, plus 500k to $1,000,000/annum in salaries to staff theregistration effort, and zero for a like effort in the rest of the county- the playing field is not level.Kuhio Mall is probably visited daily by 95% Hilo residents. Let us just think about some numbers. Perhaps 5,000 people go through Kuhio Malldaily (I'll use a firmer number if someone can get one for me). What if just ONEof every HUNDRED- one percent- says, 'hey,I can just duck in here, register, and be a goodAmerican.' That works out to 50/day, over 1,000 per month, and up to 12,000 per annum if there arestill any unregistered Hilo residents out there. This is like giving the 3 Hilo districts the voting
power of 5-6 districts , a plurality.There is no similar effort elsewhere on the island- only volunteer efforts,
no funds to rent space, denied access to many high traffic venues (management policies
prohibit or inhibit citizen activities at many)- and besides, Hilo has these efforts aswell. It does not end there- this high traffic Mall is then effective in getting out the vote with thewalk-in voting program.This program does exist islandwide- but not in a way that balances theopportunities to vote. Ever wondered, as I have, why Hilo gets higher voterregistration and turnout than other parts of the county? Perhaps nirvana is near! At last, enlightenment!
Our representatives have set us up to ensure Hilo control of county government through 2022.
CAN ANYTHING BE DONE?
We can ask any of you with civil voting rights/legal expertise if there is any recourse to fair
elections enforcement. Aside from that, we can write our representatives requesting that the
county provide equal space and employee staffing in all other districts for voter registration and
walk-in voting, with a time period before the upcoming, and then the 2008 election to balance the access
and playing field. We must not accept the County 50% rabbit stew solution (i.e. A 50% rabbit
stew is made from one rabbit and one horse.) The foot traffic aggregates/ times must be comparable.
I am not too optimistic since one of 'our' representatives in West Hawaii helped expedite this
ploy, and sent me an email justifying it as giving no advantage to Hilo. I'll forward this letter to any of you
wishing to see it as fairness in viewing another side of the issue. And if any believe it, I will not try to sell
you a used car. However, I do have a bridge connecting San Francisco and Marin Co., beautiful to
see, and it generates terrific toll returns! Once more Mr. A has not only scored a 16 year coup as
a parting gift to the colonial slaves of West Hawaii, but done it with such finesse that our representatives
seem not to have noticed. I move that , by acclamation, we award him both ears and the tail, with
thanks also to our local Picador.
ANY COMMENT?
Please, if you have any questions, contrary responses, ideas as to how to deal with this- or
conclude that it is a mountain from a molehill- let me know by return email, or let everyone
know by posting a response on the bigisland coalition yahoo discussion group at:
www.groups.yahoo.com/groups/bigislandcoalition
I may be overreacting, or we may wake up and find that West Hawaii will be a colony until at least 2022.
What do you think? Does anyone care? Is the war in fact over, with a complete developer/Hilo
victory?
Regards- Marshall
Friday, July 07, 2006
Update on 2% for lands.
PLEASE FORWARD TO BIG ISLAND FAMILY AND FRIENDSHello-
Thank you so much for your help and tremendous support on this campaign to save our treasured lands on the Big Island! The County has once again changed its instructions to our Citizen's group, and it is now clear that after collecting over 9,000 signatures in favor of letting voters decide, that a final decision on the fate of the Land Fund ordinance will rest with the County Council on July 19th.There are two specific things that we are asking ALL Big Island citizens to do, since we've just been instructed that we can't collect any more signatures (see why below) :
Attend the July 19th Council Meeting in Hilo at 9:00 am (or the Kona Council office to testify via teleconference).
Write a letter to the Mayor and Council at 25 Aupuni St., Hilo, Hawaii
Call your council person and the Mayor OR
PLEASE E-MAIL THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL (cut and paste these addresses):
cohmayor@co.hawaii.hi.us, fholschuh@co.hawaii.hi.us, dikeda@co.hawaii.hi.us, jarakaki@co.hawaii.hi.us, shiga@co.hawaii.hi.us, gsafarik@co.hawaii.hi.us , jjaco@co.hawaii.hi.us, phoffmann@co.hawaii.hi.us, kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us, visbell@co.hawaii.hi.us, counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us, PLEASE use your own words or cut and past the following in an email. ASK THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL TO HONOR THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE : Dear Mayor Kim and Hawaii County Council:PLEASE PUT THE QUESTION ON THE BALLOT AND LET HAWAII COUNTY VOTERS DECIDE IN NOVEMBER TO MODIFY THE EXISTING Open Space and Natural Resources ORDINANCE BY MAKING THE FOLLOWING CHANGES: 1-To set aside 2% of the property tax each and every year for Open Space and Natural resource acquisition and 2-to eliminate the limit of $5 million that can be held in the fund.
WE ASK THE COUNCIL TO HONOR over 9,000 people who have signed this Petition. Citizens have been frustrated by conflicting instructions from the County as to the timelines and the stringent application of the arbitrary and ambiguous criteria that the County has imposed on this process. We ask the County to include signatures of voters that: 1- forgot to write the st. ave. or highway suffix as part of their residence addresses2- forgot to put the year 2006 in the date column. Both of these criteria are clearly implied. We believe that the County should be using petition information to qualify signatures not looking for insignificant reasons to disqualify voter's signatures. Please put the question on the November 2006 Ballot now!Sincerely,Name:______________ Address:________________ Date: _________________
Here's the latest: One week ago, we were told by the County Clerk's office that we had until August to gather just 800 more valid signatures to officially approve our Petition. Unexpectedly, just a few days ago the County Clerk reversed the County's position and told the Save Our Lands Committee that we didn't have more time to collect signatures, couldn't amend the petition again and that our last submittal of signatures on June 19 was the end of the campaign. As of today, our Committee has gathered over 9,000 signatures in favor of the petition. Officially, we need 4,864 valid signatures to qualify.
Yesterday, the Committee received a call from Stacy Higa, the Chairman of the County Council, saying that he is prepared to propose and support a Resolution to grant a Certificate of Sufficiency, which will put the question on the ballot in November to set aside 2% of the property taxes for Open Space and Natural Resource acquisition and remove the limit of $5 million that can be held in the Open Space Fund. This resolution would validate our petition and put our proposed ordinance changes on the ballot in November for voters to decide. Mr. Higa stated that he thought that the Save Our lands Citizens Committee has "walked the mile" and that we have collected all of the signatures that we need. He stated that he hopes that the 1,578 voters whose signatures were disqualified on the petition because they have not updated their voter registration addresses will immediately do so and turn out to vote on this matter. In effect, he believes that these invalidated signatures should be place back into the "valid column" and count toward our petition. Our Committee has been very concerned with the overwhelming amount of voter signatures invalidated and the "reasons" for invalidation. We can only hope that the rest of the Council share Mr. Higa's concerns about the process and vote to restore the disqualified names and thereby either passing the ordinance immediately or placing it on the November ballot. When asked by the Coordinator of the Committee which Council members would vote for this Resolution he said that he would, and said that he thought Mr.Safarik would also. Mr. Hoffman, Mr. Pilago, Ms. Isbell and Mr. Jacobson all signed our petitions, so we hope that they remain steadfast and vote for this Resolution. This would provide us with 6 votes. There has been some confusion in the Council that this is a Charter Amendment, when in fact it only amends the existing Open Space and Natural Resources Ordinance. Although our Committee is encouraged by Mr. Higa's comments and support for placing the the question on the November ballot our experience has made us wary of the unclear and ever changing rulings. Therefore, we are asking everyone who signed the initiative or supported the process to immediately email the Mayor and Council to call for the approval of the petition, and then to show up in person on July 19th at the Council hearing to demand approval.
A little history of this process may better illustrate our concern. Before we began the Petition Initiative process, we met twice with the Connie Kiriu, Clerk of the Coucil, Pat Nakamoto, Elections Office and Bobby Jean Leithead-Todd from the Corp Counsel. The first time we met, our Committee challenged the County's requirement to use full Social Security numbers on the initiative citing the Federal Privacy Act and State Driver's Licensing Laws. Eventually, the County agreed to not force us to collect voters
full Social Security numbers. We then received a time line with exact dates when petitions had to be turned in to the Clerk. The time lines changed twice since those meetings and again as late as last week, when we were told that we could amend the Petition and have volunteers collect more signatures. Ms. Kiriu told West Hawaii Today and the Committee that we could possibly collect signatures until August. Then, a few days ago, we were told that in fact they would NOT allow us to amend the Petition, because of Corporation Counsel Lincoln Ashida's recent interpretation of the Charter. All of this confusion is caused because the process and criteria are not well defined in the Charter, giving rise to ambiguous interpretation. Article 11 of the County Charter states: "Electors signing such petition shall print their names, add their signatures, residence addresses, social security numbers and the dates of signing on said petition." The Save Our Lands Citizens Committee believes that thousands of signatures were invalidated because the County imposed over-stringent criteria. For instance, the County claimed that on June 19th we were 864 valid signatures short of the total required but it appears that they had disqualified over 800 signatures simply because the signing voter had simply dated their signature with a month and day (ie: 7/06) and not included the year (ie: 7/06/06). The year is clearly implied because the Committee submitted their letter of intent in April of 2006 and the notarized signature in the Affadavit on the back of each petition states the date. The County looked at the information with an eye to invalidating signatures rather than honoring voters' clear intent, creating an adversarial process:
The County Clerk and Elections Officer invalidated signatures because residence addresses did not include st. ave. or hwy. The number and street address should be sufficient to verify that the person is a registered voter. It does not say in the charter that these suffixes are required.
The County Clerk refused to accept a PO Box as a "residence address" even though the County itself has voter PO Boxes on file and regularly uses these PO Boxes to send out voter registration cards to Hawai'i County citizens.
Signatures were invalidated because they did not include the year- '06. The year was clearly implied by the start of the Petition Initiative Drive and the date of the Notary signature on the back of the Petitions.
Thank you for your help and support in this process. At the core of this Initiative Petition drive is the hope that we can save the lands that make our island uniquely beautiful and provide us with our quality of life. Caring for the 'aina means caring for the people. The Initiative Petition process provides an important check and balance and makes government more accountable. We have asked Chairman Higa to form a Committee to create an Ordinance that clarifies the Intiative Petition Process by outlining the time lines and criteria for this process. Please call if you have any questions. And write your letter or email of support TODAY. Our Committee hopes to see you in the County Council chambers on July 19th at 9am. Again, thank you for your help and support on this very important issue. Please send all petitions to the address below. WE MAY NEED THEM.
Debbie Hecht, Coordinator Save Our Lands Citizen's CommitteeP.O. Box 4148Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 (
Thank you so much for your help and tremendous support on this campaign to save our treasured lands on the Big Island! The County has once again changed its instructions to our Citizen's group, and it is now clear that after collecting over 9,000 signatures in favor of letting voters decide, that a final decision on the fate of the Land Fund ordinance will rest with the County Council on July 19th.There are two specific things that we are asking ALL Big Island citizens to do, since we've just been instructed that we can't collect any more signatures (see why below) :
Attend the July 19th Council Meeting in Hilo at 9:00 am (or the Kona Council office to testify via teleconference).
Write a letter to the Mayor and Council at 25 Aupuni St., Hilo, Hawaii
Call your council person and the Mayor OR
PLEASE E-MAIL THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL (cut and paste these addresses):
cohmayor@co.hawaii.hi.us, fholschuh@co.hawaii.hi.us, dikeda@co.hawaii.hi.us, jarakaki@co.hawaii.hi.us, shiga@co.hawaii.hi.us, gsafarik@co.hawaii.hi.us , jjaco@co.hawaii.hi.us, phoffmann@co.hawaii.hi.us, kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us, visbell@co.hawaii.hi.us, counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us, PLEASE use your own words or cut and past the following in an email. ASK THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL TO HONOR THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE : Dear Mayor Kim and Hawaii County Council:PLEASE PUT THE QUESTION ON THE BALLOT AND LET HAWAII COUNTY VOTERS DECIDE IN NOVEMBER TO MODIFY THE EXISTING Open Space and Natural Resources ORDINANCE BY MAKING THE FOLLOWING CHANGES: 1-To set aside 2% of the property tax each and every year for Open Space and Natural resource acquisition and 2-to eliminate the limit of $5 million that can be held in the fund.
WE ASK THE COUNCIL TO HONOR over 9,000 people who have signed this Petition. Citizens have been frustrated by conflicting instructions from the County as to the timelines and the stringent application of the arbitrary and ambiguous criteria that the County has imposed on this process. We ask the County to include signatures of voters that: 1- forgot to write the st. ave. or highway suffix as part of their residence addresses2- forgot to put the year 2006 in the date column. Both of these criteria are clearly implied. We believe that the County should be using petition information to qualify signatures not looking for insignificant reasons to disqualify voter's signatures. Please put the question on the November 2006 Ballot now!Sincerely,Name:______________ Address:________________ Date: _________________
Here's the latest: One week ago, we were told by the County Clerk's office that we had until August to gather just 800 more valid signatures to officially approve our Petition. Unexpectedly, just a few days ago the County Clerk reversed the County's position and told the Save Our Lands Committee that we didn't have more time to collect signatures, couldn't amend the petition again and that our last submittal of signatures on June 19 was the end of the campaign. As of today, our Committee has gathered over 9,000 signatures in favor of the petition. Officially, we need 4,864 valid signatures to qualify.
Yesterday, the Committee received a call from Stacy Higa, the Chairman of the County Council, saying that he is prepared to propose and support a Resolution to grant a Certificate of Sufficiency, which will put the question on the ballot in November to set aside 2% of the property taxes for Open Space and Natural Resource acquisition and remove the limit of $5 million that can be held in the Open Space Fund. This resolution would validate our petition and put our proposed ordinance changes on the ballot in November for voters to decide. Mr. Higa stated that he thought that the Save Our lands Citizens Committee has "walked the mile" and that we have collected all of the signatures that we need. He stated that he hopes that the 1,578 voters whose signatures were disqualified on the petition because they have not updated their voter registration addresses will immediately do so and turn out to vote on this matter. In effect, he believes that these invalidated signatures should be place back into the "valid column" and count toward our petition. Our Committee has been very concerned with the overwhelming amount of voter signatures invalidated and the "reasons" for invalidation. We can only hope that the rest of the Council share Mr. Higa's concerns about the process and vote to restore the disqualified names and thereby either passing the ordinance immediately or placing it on the November ballot. When asked by the Coordinator of the Committee which Council members would vote for this Resolution he said that he would, and said that he thought Mr.Safarik would also. Mr. Hoffman, Mr. Pilago, Ms. Isbell and Mr. Jacobson all signed our petitions, so we hope that they remain steadfast and vote for this Resolution. This would provide us with 6 votes. There has been some confusion in the Council that this is a Charter Amendment, when in fact it only amends the existing Open Space and Natural Resources Ordinance. Although our Committee is encouraged by Mr. Higa's comments and support for placing the the question on the November ballot our experience has made us wary of the unclear and ever changing rulings. Therefore, we are asking everyone who signed the initiative or supported the process to immediately email the Mayor and Council to call for the approval of the petition, and then to show up in person on July 19th at the Council hearing to demand approval.
A little history of this process may better illustrate our concern. Before we began the Petition Initiative process, we met twice with the Connie Kiriu, Clerk of the Coucil, Pat Nakamoto, Elections Office and Bobby Jean Leithead-Todd from the Corp Counsel. The first time we met, our Committee challenged the County's requirement to use full Social Security numbers on the initiative citing the Federal Privacy Act and State Driver's Licensing Laws. Eventually, the County agreed to not force us to collect voters
full Social Security numbers. We then received a time line with exact dates when petitions had to be turned in to the Clerk. The time lines changed twice since those meetings and again as late as last week, when we were told that we could amend the Petition and have volunteers collect more signatures. Ms. Kiriu told West Hawaii Today and the Committee that we could possibly collect signatures until August. Then, a few days ago, we were told that in fact they would NOT allow us to amend the Petition, because of Corporation Counsel Lincoln Ashida's recent interpretation of the Charter. All of this confusion is caused because the process and criteria are not well defined in the Charter, giving rise to ambiguous interpretation. Article 11 of the County Charter states: "Electors signing such petition shall print their names, add their signatures, residence addresses, social security numbers and the dates of signing on said petition." The Save Our Lands Citizens Committee believes that thousands of signatures were invalidated because the County imposed over-stringent criteria. For instance, the County claimed that on June 19th we were 864 valid signatures short of the total required but it appears that they had disqualified over 800 signatures simply because the signing voter had simply dated their signature with a month and day (ie: 7/06) and not included the year (ie: 7/06/06). The year is clearly implied because the Committee submitted their letter of intent in April of 2006 and the notarized signature in the Affadavit on the back of each petition states the date. The County looked at the information with an eye to invalidating signatures rather than honoring voters' clear intent, creating an adversarial process:
The County Clerk and Elections Officer invalidated signatures because residence addresses did not include st. ave. or hwy. The number and street address should be sufficient to verify that the person is a registered voter. It does not say in the charter that these suffixes are required.
The County Clerk refused to accept a PO Box as a "residence address" even though the County itself has voter PO Boxes on file and regularly uses these PO Boxes to send out voter registration cards to Hawai'i County citizens.
Signatures were invalidated because they did not include the year- '06. The year was clearly implied by the start of the Petition Initiative Drive and the date of the Notary signature on the back of the Petitions.
Thank you for your help and support in this process. At the core of this Initiative Petition drive is the hope that we can save the lands that make our island uniquely beautiful and provide us with our quality of life. Caring for the 'aina means caring for the people. The Initiative Petition process provides an important check and balance and makes government more accountable. We have asked Chairman Higa to form a Committee to create an Ordinance that clarifies the Intiative Petition Process by outlining the time lines and criteria for this process. Please call if you have any questions. And write your letter or email of support TODAY. Our Committee hopes to see you in the County Council chambers on July 19th at 9am. Again, thank you for your help and support on this very important issue. Please send all petitions to the address below. WE MAY NEED THEM.
Debbie Hecht, Coordinator Save Our Lands Citizen's CommitteeP.O. Box 4148Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 (
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