Hi Susan-
We continue to work at getting these roads opened and I'm pleased to share with you their status:
1-IliIli/KieKie(TMK:7-3-05:102)-The CoH has been unable to locate the
owner(s) of the Morris Scanlan Trust, one of two owners of parcel 102. Judge Strance on 5/11/06 denied the CoH request to proceed with publishing notices in the daily newspaper, but instead instructed the CoH to conduct further research in attempting to locate said owners.
Had the Court agreed to the CoH request, 3 publications in the daily(WHT) would have sufficed.
2-Holu/KeoKeo(TMK:7-3-05:101 & 111)-A road maintenance agreement for parcel
111(Matsumoto) involves over 30 owners has stymied its acquisition by the CoH. A similar situation exists for parcel 101, many of whom are the same owners as parcel 111. Serving all of the owners has posed a problem for the Sheriff's office, since some live in Japan.
3-Kauhale/AhiAhi(TMK:7-3-10:36) - An existing lawsuit, filed prior to the CoH's efforts to acquire the roadway parcel, amongst the 4 owners of parcel
36 has slowed down the process and complicated its acquisition.
As you can see each of the roads provides special challenges, which we are addressing. Should you have any question feel free to contact us.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Saturday, May 20, 2006
What happened to the cross roads in Coastview?
Aloha Bruce McClure,
I sent this same request to Bob Yanabu (Civil Engineer) with the same question.
Where exactly is the opening of the cross roads in Kona Coastview?
(1 ½ months ago) Bob said they were waiting for the sheriff to deliver notices/checks?
Please fill me in on the progress.
Isimoto Construction is ready to repave and these roads will become a dangerous highway without those cross streets being opened.
This needs to be addressed immediately. The cross streets will relieve the top speeds to the bottom of the hill.
Thank you for your prompt attention regarding this very important matter.
Susan McGeachy
Kona Coastview Homeowner
mcgeachy@hawaii.rr.com
For the public review
Posted to blog: http://hawaiicountyissues.blogspot.com
I sent this same request to Bob Yanabu (Civil Engineer) with the same question.
Where exactly is the opening of the cross roads in Kona Coastview?
(1 ½ months ago) Bob said they were waiting for the sheriff to deliver notices/checks?
Please fill me in on the progress.
Isimoto Construction is ready to repave and these roads will become a dangerous highway without those cross streets being opened.
This needs to be addressed immediately. The cross streets will relieve the top speeds to the bottom of the hill.
Thank you for your prompt attention regarding this very important matter.
Susan McGeachy
Kona Coastview Homeowner
mcgeachy@hawaii.rr.com
For the public review
Posted to blog: http://hawaiicountyissues.blogspot.com
Pubilc Comments on Editorial
Aloha,
Why couldn't a petition drive be started to get the councilmen off the dime to move every other monthly meeting to Kona. Is there anything to stop and initiative petition drive forcing the measure onto a ballot without having to go through the council? Just wondering. Politicians hate things like names on paper. So seventeen showed up to oppose the measure how many names in favor would it take? I'll bet if it was published in the WHT that there was a petition being circulated it would get someone's attention!
Jim Browne
Note: This is Jim Browne of Waikoloa. There is another Jim Browne in Puna and he has requested this be brought to your attention. This is not his comments.
Aloha Susan:
Have you read Flickingers editorial in todays WHT? It is a total eye opener and if it is legal....how DO we find that out?
we will be able to get everything on the ballot as a referendum that we want....A concurrancy direction, 2% solution, meetings on the west side every other month, a West Hawaii Planning commission, Kona becoming a city, all with one name on the referendum. Sounds too good to be true, but if it is.....Lets go for it. Lets really think about what we want to accomplish.
There are so many factions out there that we can draw together and accomplish this with very little effort (which seems to be the problem with splitting the county, or motivating people to get over to Hilo to give testimony).
Wow, Reid Flickinger might just be our new saviour.
Aloha, Lillian
Susan
Reed has been begging for us to move on this council. But, he has been trying to light a fire...I am for a referendum! Now. Let's find a friendly attorney to lead us and go for it.
Susan
While staring him SQUARE in the eyes, Bates asked Higa "Where is Arakaki?" Did you see Higa squirming in the silence? And his answer was so weak "We don't answer questions up here". Well, Higa, if you don't answer questions posed by the people, then what the hell do you DO?
Pointed Questions, like that, are what make me look like the villain, which, IMHO, is the root cause of why I never had a chance for election. The people of Kona need villains & fighters to represent them in Hilo. But they are not quite ready for that yet. Personally, I think Bob Jacobson is one of the nicest men I have ever met in my life.
Kona will choose some other soft-shell, nice person, and continue to get railroaded by Hilo.
The time for politics and political correctness has passed us. It is now time for fighting. I don't really think Kona voters have any guts for the fight. (Sue McGeachy has proven that quite handily by trying to organize us, and seeing the woeful turnout.) We shall see by who runs, and who gets elected.
It's a shame I have no way of knowing who the 260 people were that voted for me. Can you imagine ME running through the halls of Hilo with a reporter in my pocket at ALL times?
ROOOAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRR !!!!!!!!
Tim Bates
Why couldn't a petition drive be started to get the councilmen off the dime to move every other monthly meeting to Kona. Is there anything to stop and initiative petition drive forcing the measure onto a ballot without having to go through the council? Just wondering. Politicians hate things like names on paper. So seventeen showed up to oppose the measure how many names in favor would it take? I'll bet if it was published in the WHT that there was a petition being circulated it would get someone's attention!
Jim Browne
Note: This is Jim Browne of Waikoloa. There is another Jim Browne in Puna and he has requested this be brought to your attention. This is not his comments.
Aloha Susan:
Have you read Flickingers editorial in todays WHT? It is a total eye opener and if it is legal....how DO we find that out?
we will be able to get everything on the ballot as a referendum that we want....A concurrancy direction, 2% solution, meetings on the west side every other month, a West Hawaii Planning commission, Kona becoming a city, all with one name on the referendum. Sounds too good to be true, but if it is.....Lets go for it. Lets really think about what we want to accomplish.
There are so many factions out there that we can draw together and accomplish this with very little effort (which seems to be the problem with splitting the county, or motivating people to get over to Hilo to give testimony).
Wow, Reid Flickinger might just be our new saviour.
Aloha, Lillian
Susan
Reed has been begging for us to move on this council. But, he has been trying to light a fire...I am for a referendum! Now. Let's find a friendly attorney to lead us and go for it.
Susan
While staring him SQUARE in the eyes, Bates asked Higa "Where is Arakaki?" Did you see Higa squirming in the silence? And his answer was so weak "We don't answer questions up here". Well, Higa, if you don't answer questions posed by the people, then what the hell do you DO?
Pointed Questions, like that, are what make me look like the villain, which, IMHO, is the root cause of why I never had a chance for election. The people of Kona need villains & fighters to represent them in Hilo. But they are not quite ready for that yet. Personally, I think Bob Jacobson is one of the nicest men I have ever met in my life.
Kona will choose some other soft-shell, nice person, and continue to get railroaded by Hilo.
The time for politics and political correctness has passed us. It is now time for fighting. I don't really think Kona voters have any guts for the fight. (Sue McGeachy has proven that quite handily by trying to organize us, and seeing the woeful turnout.) We shall see by who runs, and who gets elected.
It's a shame I have no way of knowing who the 260 people were that voted for me. Can you imagine ME running through the halls of Hilo with a reporter in my pocket at ALL times?
ROOOAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRR !!!!!!!!
Tim Bates
WHT Editor speaks out
Council vote against equal access issue screams for voter referendum
By Reed Flickinger Friday, May 19, 2006 8:44 AM HST
Remember these names: Stacy Higa, Jimmy Arakaki, Fred Holschuh and Donald Ikeda. They are the Gang of Four and they are enemies of the democratic process.These men abused their power as members of the Hawaii County Council to deprive voters of this island a democratic right: To decide at the polls whether the council should meet in Kona on even-numbered months. They voted against a measure that would have allowed voters to decide if West Hawaii residents should be allowed equal access to government.They think they know better -- better than every voter on this island -- what we want.Theirs is a corrupt perspective.The blame for this travesty of democracy falls squarely on the shoulders of Higa, the council chairman prone to bloviation and verbal bullying who directs dependent followers like Holschuh and Ikeda.He and his three cohorts don't have the sand to insult the residents and voters of West Hawaii in person. Rather, by action they have demonstrated their preference to run into the relative insulation and comfort of Hilo council chambers to abuse the rights and interests of West Hawaii, the region that pays more than 70 percent of this island's real property tax revenues, yet in the eyes of this corrupt gang does not merit so much as the right to vote on an equal access to government issue.The people of West Hawaii, however, may not be left in the cold. This year technically may be open season on initiative, referendum and charter amendment, and this bill may have been moot after all. Any individual may be able to place any initiative before voters this fall.The Hawaii County Charter, the law governing how the county operates, in the section addressing initiative and referendum states:
"Section 11-2. Submission Requirements."(a) Voters seeking to propose an ordinance by initiative shall submit an initiative petition addressed to the council and containing the full text of the proposed ordinance. The initiative petition shall be filed with the clerk of the council at least forty-eight hours prior to any regular council meeting."(b) Voters seeking referendum on an ordinance shall submit a referendum petition addressed to the council, identifying the particular ordinance and requesting that it be either repealed or referred to the voters of the county."(c) Each initiative petition and each referendum petition must be signed by qualified voters of the county equal in number to at least fifteen percent of the total number of persons who voted in the county for the office of mayor in the most recent second special election, or, if there had not been a second special election, in the last preceding general election."Re-read carefully that italicized passage.Harry Kim was elected mayor in the last primary election. No votes were cast for the mayor in the General Election, so by law, if it is accurately interpreted and not misinterpreted by Hilo factions, the number of signatures needed for any initiative or charter amendment to appear on the ballot is one.We have the ability to put before this island's voters issues the council and administration haven't the wisdom, sand and veracity to produce: A separate West Hawaii Planning Commission; concurrency; impact fees; the 2 percent tax set aside for land acquisition. It is a wish list that could fill volumes and allow voters to correct what our county government has mismanaged, misappropriated and misconstrued.The Gang of Four has done a disservice to voters. They have placed themselves and their narrow-minded opinions before the wisdom of the voters whom they profess to represent. They stand squarely between the people and the democratic process, not serving the process of democracy, rather serving to undermine that process with the sole intent, by design, of protecting and prolonging the inequity of their treatment of West Hawaii, its access to government, perpetuating their insufficient delivery of services and protecting their flawed planning processes and decisions.However, the Hawaii County Charter may be their undoing. The Gang of Four and anyone who chooses to side with them may well be shown they are not above following the law.The powers of initiative and referendum allowed by the charter can and should be used by voters to enact legislation they seek, to put important issues before voters and to force balance and accountability in the governing process. Those powers are useful, strong and binding: It is up to voters to use those tools before them when elected officials fail.rflickinger@westhawaiitoday.com
By Reed Flickinger Friday, May 19, 2006 8:44 AM HST
Remember these names: Stacy Higa, Jimmy Arakaki, Fred Holschuh and Donald Ikeda. They are the Gang of Four and they are enemies of the democratic process.These men abused their power as members of the Hawaii County Council to deprive voters of this island a democratic right: To decide at the polls whether the council should meet in Kona on even-numbered months. They voted against a measure that would have allowed voters to decide if West Hawaii residents should be allowed equal access to government.They think they know better -- better than every voter on this island -- what we want.Theirs is a corrupt perspective.The blame for this travesty of democracy falls squarely on the shoulders of Higa, the council chairman prone to bloviation and verbal bullying who directs dependent followers like Holschuh and Ikeda.He and his three cohorts don't have the sand to insult the residents and voters of West Hawaii in person. Rather, by action they have demonstrated their preference to run into the relative insulation and comfort of Hilo council chambers to abuse the rights and interests of West Hawaii, the region that pays more than 70 percent of this island's real property tax revenues, yet in the eyes of this corrupt gang does not merit so much as the right to vote on an equal access to government issue.The people of West Hawaii, however, may not be left in the cold. This year technically may be open season on initiative, referendum and charter amendment, and this bill may have been moot after all. Any individual may be able to place any initiative before voters this fall.The Hawaii County Charter, the law governing how the county operates, in the section addressing initiative and referendum states:
"Section 11-2. Submission Requirements."(a) Voters seeking to propose an ordinance by initiative shall submit an initiative petition addressed to the council and containing the full text of the proposed ordinance. The initiative petition shall be filed with the clerk of the council at least forty-eight hours prior to any regular council meeting."(b) Voters seeking referendum on an ordinance shall submit a referendum petition addressed to the council, identifying the particular ordinance and requesting that it be either repealed or referred to the voters of the county."(c) Each initiative petition and each referendum petition must be signed by qualified voters of the county equal in number to at least fifteen percent of the total number of persons who voted in the county for the office of mayor in the most recent second special election, or, if there had not been a second special election, in the last preceding general election."Re-read carefully that italicized passage.Harry Kim was elected mayor in the last primary election. No votes were cast for the mayor in the General Election, so by law, if it is accurately interpreted and not misinterpreted by Hilo factions, the number of signatures needed for any initiative or charter amendment to appear on the ballot is one.We have the ability to put before this island's voters issues the council and administration haven't the wisdom, sand and veracity to produce: A separate West Hawaii Planning Commission; concurrency; impact fees; the 2 percent tax set aside for land acquisition. It is a wish list that could fill volumes and allow voters to correct what our county government has mismanaged, misappropriated and misconstrued.The Gang of Four has done a disservice to voters. They have placed themselves and their narrow-minded opinions before the wisdom of the voters whom they profess to represent. They stand squarely between the people and the democratic process, not serving the process of democracy, rather serving to undermine that process with the sole intent, by design, of protecting and prolonging the inequity of their treatment of West Hawaii, its access to government, perpetuating their insufficient delivery of services and protecting their flawed planning processes and decisions.However, the Hawaii County Charter may be their undoing. The Gang of Four and anyone who chooses to side with them may well be shown they are not above following the law.The powers of initiative and referendum allowed by the charter can and should be used by voters to enact legislation they seek, to put important issues before voters and to force balance and accountability in the governing process. Those powers are useful, strong and binding: It is up to voters to use those tools before them when elected officials fail.rflickinger@westhawaiitoday.com
Friday, May 19, 2006
Issues that are happening now.
THIS IS THE LATEST VOTING RECORD
ON ISSUES THAT IMPACT WEST HAWAI'I
5/16/06 PLANNING COMMITTEE
BILL 224
HILUHILU - PALAMANUI
725 acres located above the Kona Airport and below Makalei Estates
Council members voted 7-1 to approve the rezoning from Ag. and Open to
Project District
Developer will provide:
* 20,000 square-foot building on 500 acres of State owned land where a
permanent U.H. campus will eventually be located.
* Infrastructure sub-outs for electrical, water and sewage for the
University.
* 8,000 square foot building for DOE facility on Palamanui property
for North Kona School Complex. No rent or common area maintenance fees will
be charged to the DOE for 20 years. After the 20 year period, fair rental
rate will be charged. Building to be used as instructional and office space
for schools in West Hawai'i.
* If building in above condition not provided, Hiluhilu Dev. will
contribute $2,633,222 into Dept. of Education for Kealakehe Schools
* No golf course - instead: 178 acres of open space - including
60-acre preservation of dry land forest and a 20-acre public park
* West-East Connector road (with Peter Lynch) from Queen Ka'ahumanu
Hwy. (north of airport) to Mamalahoa Hwy. (north of Makalei Dr.) and lessen
use of Makalei Drive MINOR Road.
* Curbs, gutters and sidewalks along a 2 lane North-South connector
road through the university's permanent campus site to Ka'iminani Drive.
* 200 affordable housing units.
Amendments and written agreements will be provided to Council before the
June 5 meeting when Bill 224 is taken up again.
PASSES OUT OF COMMITTEE - WILL BE ON 6/5/06 COUNCIL AGENDA
7 Ayes - 1 No
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
5/17/06 COUNCIL MEETING
Bill 268
CHARTER AMENDMENT TO HOLD EQUAL
NUMBER OF MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAII
Pilago introduces Bill and challenges Hilo to give West Hawai'i residents
Fair and Equitable Access to Government
5 Ayes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Safarik, Jacobson and Isbell
4 Noes: Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda and Arakaki
BILL DIES - needed 2/3 majority to pass
Mr. Pilago will introduce legislation to change Council Rules to have more
meetings in Kona.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Pilago introduces and passes following Resolutions
to fund Community Projects:
$2,000 to Alternatives to Drugs Video Contest
$5,000 for E Pulama I Ka Honua (Cherish the Earth) Festival
$15,000 for additional funds for CDP Process
$50,000 for streetlights in Kailua-Kona for public safety and security
$30,000 for Roads in Limbo in District 8
$10,000 for Na Kalai Wa'a Voyaging Program
$3,250 for equipment for Pu'uanahulu Volunteer Fire Station
$3,250 for equipment for 7 Bravo Fire Station in Kalaoa
Community testimony convinced Council to unanimously pass all of the above.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bill 247
D. Smith, applicant to rezone 22 acres from Ag. 20 to Family Ag. 3 acres in
Kaloko
* Dangerous intersection at Kaloko Dr. and Mamalahoa Hwy.
* Will add to traffic problem on Mamalahoa Hwy. and Palani Road
* This subdivision should wait for State and County to fix
intersection and roads.
* Additional damage to forest and watershed and endangered species
4 Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Isbell
5 Ayes: Arakaki, Higa, Ikeda, Holschuh, Safarik
PASSES 1st READING. MOVES TO 6/5/06 COUNCIL MEETING for 2nd and Final
Reading
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bill 251
SCD Kona 108, LLC Kona Coffee Estates, applicant to rezone 97.347 acres
above Lowe's
* No roads, no parks, more impacts on schools
* Not enough water available.
* Cul-de-sac community without dedicable roads.
* Will add to traffic problems on Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy. and
Kailua-Kona.
* Should hold off until roads and infrastructure are improved.
* Deal with Salvation Army only verbal.
POSTPONED TO 6/21/06 COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD IN KONA
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bill 246
Amendments to the Subdivision Code
* Supreme Court finds Planning Dept. to be illegal in not following
Subdivision Code.
* The current law: County rules require that complete information be
provided with subdivision applications.
* The problem: County moves incomplete applications forward.
* Pilago: Planning Dept. must follow the law.
* Dept. wants to change Code to cover illegalities
* Changes to the Code must have full public participation and adhere
to open-government policies.
POSTPONED TO 6/5//06 COUNCIL MEETING (DRAFT 3, CIRCULATED)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
Bills 226 & 227
Lava Kuakini, to rezone Ag. to Urban for a 212-unit townhouse
project off Kuakini Hwy. next to Hillcrest
* Increase traffic
* Not enough water available
* Bad project - wrong time
4 Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Isbell,
5 Ayes: Arakaki, Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Safarik
PASSES 2nd AND FINAL READING
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
--
WHEN THE NEXT AGENDA COMES OUT WE WILL LET YOU KNOW
AGENDA ITEMS AND MEETING TIMES
YOU MAY SEND TESTIMONY ANY TIME PRIOR TO HEARING
Please send separate testimony for each item to assure full impact of
statements
VIA EMAIL
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
cc:
kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
VIA FAX
329-4786 KONA
961-8912 HILO
BEST TO TESTIFY IN PERSON
VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE FROM KONA AND WAIMEA OR
AT THE HILO COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MAHALO FOR YOUR INTEREST AND PARTICIPATION IN COUNTY GOVERNMENT
Angel, Maile and Karen
Karen Eoff, Aide to
Councilman K. Angel Pilago
District 8, North Kona
808-327-3642
www.angelcouncil.org
Maile David
Legislative Assistant
327-3638
www.angelcouncil.org
K. Angel Pilago
Councilman, District 8
327-3642
ON ISSUES THAT IMPACT WEST HAWAI'I
5/16/06 PLANNING COMMITTEE
BILL 224
HILUHILU - PALAMANUI
725 acres located above the Kona Airport and below Makalei Estates
Council members voted 7-1 to approve the rezoning from Ag. and Open to
Project District
Developer will provide:
* 20,000 square-foot building on 500 acres of State owned land where a
permanent U.H. campus will eventually be located.
* Infrastructure sub-outs for electrical, water and sewage for the
University.
* 8,000 square foot building for DOE facility on Palamanui property
for North Kona School Complex. No rent or common area maintenance fees will
be charged to the DOE for 20 years. After the 20 year period, fair rental
rate will be charged. Building to be used as instructional and office space
for schools in West Hawai'i.
* If building in above condition not provided, Hiluhilu Dev. will
contribute $2,633,222 into Dept. of Education for Kealakehe Schools
* No golf course - instead: 178 acres of open space - including
60-acre preservation of dry land forest and a 20-acre public park
* West-East Connector road (with Peter Lynch) from Queen Ka'ahumanu
Hwy. (north of airport) to Mamalahoa Hwy. (north of Makalei Dr.) and lessen
use of Makalei Drive MINOR Road.
* Curbs, gutters and sidewalks along a 2 lane North-South connector
road through the university's permanent campus site to Ka'iminani Drive.
* 200 affordable housing units.
Amendments and written agreements will be provided to Council before the
June 5 meeting when Bill 224 is taken up again.
PASSES OUT OF COMMITTEE - WILL BE ON 6/5/06 COUNCIL AGENDA
7 Ayes - 1 No
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
5/17/06 COUNCIL MEETING
Bill 268
CHARTER AMENDMENT TO HOLD EQUAL
NUMBER OF MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAII
Pilago introduces Bill and challenges Hilo to give West Hawai'i residents
Fair and Equitable Access to Government
5 Ayes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Safarik, Jacobson and Isbell
4 Noes: Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda and Arakaki
BILL DIES - needed 2/3 majority to pass
Mr. Pilago will introduce legislation to change Council Rules to have more
meetings in Kona.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Pilago introduces and passes following Resolutions
to fund Community Projects:
$2,000 to Alternatives to Drugs Video Contest
$5,000 for E Pulama I Ka Honua (Cherish the Earth) Festival
$15,000 for additional funds for CDP Process
$50,000 for streetlights in Kailua-Kona for public safety and security
$30,000 for Roads in Limbo in District 8
$10,000 for Na Kalai Wa'a Voyaging Program
$3,250 for equipment for Pu'uanahulu Volunteer Fire Station
$3,250 for equipment for 7 Bravo Fire Station in Kalaoa
Community testimony convinced Council to unanimously pass all of the above.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bill 247
D. Smith, applicant to rezone 22 acres from Ag. 20 to Family Ag. 3 acres in
Kaloko
* Dangerous intersection at Kaloko Dr. and Mamalahoa Hwy.
* Will add to traffic problem on Mamalahoa Hwy. and Palani Road
* This subdivision should wait for State and County to fix
intersection and roads.
* Additional damage to forest and watershed and endangered species
4 Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Isbell
5 Ayes: Arakaki, Higa, Ikeda, Holschuh, Safarik
PASSES 1st READING. MOVES TO 6/5/06 COUNCIL MEETING for 2nd and Final
Reading
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bill 251
SCD Kona 108, LLC Kona Coffee Estates, applicant to rezone 97.347 acres
above Lowe's
* No roads, no parks, more impacts on schools
* Not enough water available.
* Cul-de-sac community without dedicable roads.
* Will add to traffic problems on Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy. and
Kailua-Kona.
* Should hold off until roads and infrastructure are improved.
* Deal with Salvation Army only verbal.
POSTPONED TO 6/21/06 COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD IN KONA
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bill 246
Amendments to the Subdivision Code
* Supreme Court finds Planning Dept. to be illegal in not following
Subdivision Code.
* The current law: County rules require that complete information be
provided with subdivision applications.
* The problem: County moves incomplete applications forward.
* Pilago: Planning Dept. must follow the law.
* Dept. wants to change Code to cover illegalities
* Changes to the Code must have full public participation and adhere
to open-government policies.
POSTPONED TO 6/5//06 COUNCIL MEETING (DRAFT 3, CIRCULATED)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
Bills 226 & 227
Lava Kuakini, to rezone Ag. to Urban for a 212-unit townhouse
project off Kuakini Hwy. next to Hillcrest
* Increase traffic
* Not enough water available
* Bad project - wrong time
4 Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Isbell,
5 Ayes: Arakaki, Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Safarik
PASSES 2nd AND FINAL READING
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
--
WHEN THE NEXT AGENDA COMES OUT WE WILL LET YOU KNOW
AGENDA ITEMS AND MEETING TIMES
YOU MAY SEND TESTIMONY ANY TIME PRIOR TO HEARING
Please send separate testimony for each item to assure full impact of
statements
VIA EMAIL
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
cc:
kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
VIA FAX
329-4786 KONA
961-8912 HILO
BEST TO TESTIFY IN PERSON
VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE FROM KONA AND WAIMEA OR
AT THE HILO COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MAHALO FOR YOUR INTEREST AND PARTICIPATION IN COUNTY GOVERNMENT
Angel, Maile and Karen
Karen Eoff, Aide to
Councilman K. Angel Pilago
District 8, North Kona
808-327-3642
www.angelcouncil.org
Maile David
Legislative Assistant
327-3638
www.angelcouncil.org
K. Angel Pilago
Councilman, District 8
327-3642
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Public comments on #268 DEFEAT
We needed a 2/3's vote to keep this bill going.
The NO votes were:
Stacy Higa, Donald Ikeda, Fred Holschuh and
(hiding in another room watching the meeting on a closed circuit monitor and not present in the full meeting) James Arakakai. None of these people are able to serve the interest of the ENTIRE BIG ISLAND and have no business running for office again.
OK, that does it. I'm for splitting the county.
Well, We tried.
It continues to astonish me how much time Arakaki spends OUTSIDE the meeting during any testimony.
tim
I still feel that this was not the most important battle to be fought with the counsel or the most important issue. I do believe that we should continue to organize, register people to vote and get someone elected in many districts who will promote our agenda of fairness in govt spending and representation. Thanks for your efforts and I hope you keep on trying.
Peter
The NO votes were:
Stacy Higa, Donald Ikeda, Fred Holschuh and
(hiding in another room watching the meeting on a closed circuit monitor and not present in the full meeting) James Arakakai. None of these people are able to serve the interest of the ENTIRE BIG ISLAND and have no business running for office again.
OK, that does it. I'm for splitting the county.
Well, We tried.
It continues to astonish me how much time Arakaki spends OUTSIDE the meeting during any testimony.
tim
I still feel that this was not the most important battle to be fought with the counsel or the most important issue. I do believe that we should continue to organize, register people to vote and get someone elected in many districts who will promote our agenda of fairness in govt spending and representation. Thanks for your efforts and I hope you keep on trying.
Peter
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Bill 268 DEAD. KONA YOU LOOSE!
Aloha Ladies and Gentlemen,
Bill 268 is a DEAD. (Every other counsel meeting in Kona)
The Vote was: 5 to 4
NO GO TO KONA> NO TO CHANGE THE COUNTY CHARTER TO REQUIRE EVERY OTHER MEETING ON THE KONA SIDE.
NO TO PERSONAL FREEDOM OF CHOICE FOR THE TAX PAYERS.
THESE COUNCIL MEMBERS SAID “NO TO ALL OF THE VOTERS OF THE BIG ISLAND.
They really said NO you can’t vote and decide for yourself.
They really said NO I can’t act on behalf of the entire island as one of nine governing bodies.
They are only concerned about their own district and personal convince.
GAME OVER! KONA YOU LOOSE!
Thank you to those of you who testified and gave it the ole’ college try,
But NOT enough voices were heard and the pressure wasn’t there to warrant our true voice.
Susan McGeachy
Bill 268 is a DEAD. (Every other counsel meeting in Kona)
The Vote was: 5 to 4
NO GO TO KONA> NO TO CHANGE THE COUNTY CHARTER TO REQUIRE EVERY OTHER MEETING ON THE KONA SIDE.
NO TO PERSONAL FREEDOM OF CHOICE FOR THE TAX PAYERS.
THESE COUNCIL MEMBERS SAID “NO TO ALL OF THE VOTERS OF THE BIG ISLAND.
They really said NO you can’t vote and decide for yourself.
They really said NO I can’t act on behalf of the entire island as one of nine governing bodies.
They are only concerned about their own district and personal convince.
GAME OVER! KONA YOU LOOSE!
Thank you to those of you who testified and gave it the ole’ college try,
But NOT enough voices were heard and the pressure wasn’t there to warrant our true voice.
Susan McGeachy
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Important Items on May 16 & 17 County Council
IMPORTANT ITEMS ON MAY 16 & 17
> COMMITTEE AND COUNCIL AGENDA
> 5/16/06 @ 1:30 PM - PLANNING COMMITTEE
>
> Bills 224 and 225
> Charles Schwab - Hilu Hilu Development / Palamanui, applicant - to
> rezone
> 725 acres of land from Ag 3-a and Open to Project District for an 855
> unit development located above the Kona airport and mauka of Queen
> Ka'ahumanu Highway.
> * Developers originally promised to build UH facility, connector roads
> and infrastructure
> * At April 26, 2006 Public Hearing Developer and UH DO NOT have an
> agreement
> * Mr. Pilago has requested developer to bring evidence of binding
> agreements to the next meeting.
>
>
>
> 5/17/06 COUNCIL MEETING
>
> Meeting starts at 9:00 AM
> Public Testimony on Bills for 1st Reading @ 10:30 AM Public Testimony
> on Bills for 2nd Reading @ 2:00 PM
>
> 10:30 AM - Bills for 1st Reading:
>
> Bill 268
> CHARTER AMENDMENT TO HOLD EQUAL NUMBER OF MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAII Mr.
> Pilago introduces this Bill to give West Hawai'i residents Fair and
> Equitable Access to Government Needs 2/3 Majority of the Council to
> pass SUPPORT this important legislation.
> Tell your council members to vote YES and get this charter amendment
> on the ballot in November.
> LET THE VOTERS DECIDE! IT'S THEIR GOVERNMENT! AND THEIR MONEY!
> SEND TESTIMONY
> SEND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
> TESTIFY IN PERSON OR BY VIDEOCONFERENCE 1st reading in Hilo 5/17/06
> 2nd reading in Hilo 6/6/06 3rd reading will be held in West Hawaii on
> 6/21/06 WE NEED YOUR TESTIMONY IMPORTANT THAT YOU ARE THERE!
>
>
> Bill 251
> Stanford Carr - SCD Kona 108, LLC Kona Coffee Estates, APPLICANT - to
> rezone 97.347 acres of land above Lowe's
> * Will add to traffic on Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy. and Kailua-Kona
> * Not enough water available
> * No roads, no parks, additional impacts to schools
> * Good sense to hold off until roads and infrastructure are improved
>
> Bill 247
> D. Smith, applicant - to rezone Ag. 20 acres to Family Ag. 3 acres in
> Kaloko
> * Will add to traffic on Mamalahoa Hwy. and Palani Road
> * Dangerous intersection at Kaloko Dr.
> * Damage to forest and watershed and endangered species
> * Project should wait for State and County to fix intersection and
> roads.
>
>
> 2:00 PM - Bills for 2nd Reading
>
> Bill 246
> Planning Director wants to amend the Subdivision Code
> * The current law: County rules require that complete information be
> provided with subdivision applications.
> * In Ki'ilai case, Court finds Planning Dept. practices, illegal - not
> in compliance with Subdivision Code.
> * The problem: County moves incomplete applications forward.
> * Dept. wants to change Code to continue practice
> * Mr. Pilago does not support the amendments - Planning Director
> should follow the law - Changes to the code must have full public
> participation and adhere to open-government policies.
>
> Bills 226 & 227
> Lava Kuakini, applicant - to rezone Ag. to Urban for a 212-unit
> townhouse project off Kuakini Hwy. next to Hillcrest
> * Will add to traffic
> * Not enough water
>
> YOU MAY SEND TESTIMONY ANY TIME PRIOR TO HEARING THE SOONER, THE
> BETTER
>
> VIA EMAIL
> counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
> cc:
> kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
>
> VIA FAX
> 329-4786 KONA
> 961-8912 HILO
>
> BEST TO TESTIFY IN PERSON
> VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE FROM KONA AND WAIMEA OR AT THE HILO COUNCIL
> CHAMBERS (at the times specified above)
>
> MAHALO FOR YOUR INTEREST AND PARTICIPATION IN COUNTY GOVERNMENT Angel,
> Karen, and Maile
>
>
>
> Karen Eoff, Aide to
> Councilman K. Angel Pilago
> District 8, North Kona
> 808-327-3642
> www.angelcouncil.org
>
> Maile David
> Legislative Assistant
> 327-3638
> www.angelcouncil.org
>
> K. Angel Pilago
> Councilman, District 8
> 327-3642
> COMMITTEE AND COUNCIL AGENDA
> 5/16/06 @ 1:30 PM - PLANNING COMMITTEE
>
> Bills 224 and 225
> Charles Schwab - Hilu Hilu Development / Palamanui, applicant - to
> rezone
> 725 acres of land from Ag 3-a and Open to Project District for an 855
> unit development located above the Kona airport and mauka of Queen
> Ka'ahumanu Highway.
> * Developers originally promised to build UH facility, connector roads
> and infrastructure
> * At April 26, 2006 Public Hearing Developer and UH DO NOT have an
> agreement
> * Mr. Pilago has requested developer to bring evidence of binding
> agreements to the next meeting.
>
>
>
> 5/17/06 COUNCIL MEETING
>
> Meeting starts at 9:00 AM
> Public Testimony on Bills for 1st Reading @ 10:30 AM Public Testimony
> on Bills for 2nd Reading @ 2:00 PM
>
> 10:30 AM - Bills for 1st Reading:
>
> Bill 268
> CHARTER AMENDMENT TO HOLD EQUAL NUMBER OF MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAII Mr.
> Pilago introduces this Bill to give West Hawai'i residents Fair and
> Equitable Access to Government Needs 2/3 Majority of the Council to
> pass SUPPORT this important legislation.
> Tell your council members to vote YES and get this charter amendment
> on the ballot in November.
> LET THE VOTERS DECIDE! IT'S THEIR GOVERNMENT! AND THEIR MONEY!
> SEND TESTIMONY
> SEND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
> TESTIFY IN PERSON OR BY VIDEOCONFERENCE 1st reading in Hilo 5/17/06
> 2nd reading in Hilo 6/6/06 3rd reading will be held in West Hawaii on
> 6/21/06 WE NEED YOUR TESTIMONY IMPORTANT THAT YOU ARE THERE!
>
>
> Bill 251
> Stanford Carr - SCD Kona 108, LLC Kona Coffee Estates, APPLICANT - to
> rezone 97.347 acres of land above Lowe's
> * Will add to traffic on Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy. and Kailua-Kona
> * Not enough water available
> * No roads, no parks, additional impacts to schools
> * Good sense to hold off until roads and infrastructure are improved
>
> Bill 247
> D. Smith, applicant - to rezone Ag. 20 acres to Family Ag. 3 acres in
> Kaloko
> * Will add to traffic on Mamalahoa Hwy. and Palani Road
> * Dangerous intersection at Kaloko Dr.
> * Damage to forest and watershed and endangered species
> * Project should wait for State and County to fix intersection and
> roads.
>
>
> 2:00 PM - Bills for 2nd Reading
>
> Bill 246
> Planning Director wants to amend the Subdivision Code
> * The current law: County rules require that complete information be
> provided with subdivision applications.
> * In Ki'ilai case, Court finds Planning Dept. practices, illegal - not
> in compliance with Subdivision Code.
> * The problem: County moves incomplete applications forward.
> * Dept. wants to change Code to continue practice
> * Mr. Pilago does not support the amendments - Planning Director
> should follow the law - Changes to the code must have full public
> participation and adhere to open-government policies.
>
> Bills 226 & 227
> Lava Kuakini, applicant - to rezone Ag. to Urban for a 212-unit
> townhouse project off Kuakini Hwy. next to Hillcrest
> * Will add to traffic
> * Not enough water
>
> YOU MAY SEND TESTIMONY ANY TIME PRIOR TO HEARING THE SOONER, THE
> BETTER
>
> VIA EMAIL
> counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
> cc:
> kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
>
> VIA FAX
> 329-4786 KONA
> 961-8912 HILO
>
> BEST TO TESTIFY IN PERSON
> VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE FROM KONA AND WAIMEA OR AT THE HILO COUNCIL
> CHAMBERS (at the times specified above)
>
> MAHALO FOR YOUR INTEREST AND PARTICIPATION IN COUNTY GOVERNMENT Angel,
> Karen, and Maile
>
>
>
> Karen Eoff, Aide to
> Councilman K. Angel Pilago
> District 8, North Kona
> 808-327-3642
> www.angelcouncil.org
>
> Maile David
> Legislative Assistant
> 327-3638
> www.angelcouncil.org
>
> K. Angel Pilago
> Councilman, District 8
> 327-3642
Friday, May 12, 2006
Public Comments:
Honorable Council Members,
I hope that you will give serious consideration to bill 268 and will vote yes on it.
That doesn't mean that meetings actually start to happen on both sides of this
enormous island -- it just means people get to vote on the possibility. It is only
fair that people have the opportunity to vote on this issue.
I wish I could attend your meeting this week, but, alas, I have commitments I
cannot change or miss. Perhaps if the meeting were in, say, Kailua, things
might be different.
No doubt you have heard there is a large outcry from the west side of the island.
There is a feeling of neglect and indifference from those in charge (Hilo and its
county government) about the west side of the island.
Yes, there are thoughts that there is taxation without adequate representation,
which should sound familiar from your civics classes of old; a feeling of East
getting the tax dollars -- with wide streets and, sometimes, actual shoulders
and sidewalks, occasionally even guardrails -- versus West, where the infrastructure
is crumbling and inadequate to begin with. Major roads in population centers in
West Hawaii can be narrow two-lane-no-shoulder and on-a-cliff-without-guardrails
affairs, whereas major roads in Hilo are boulevards with sidewalks. If you ever
drive Palani just down from the Mamalahoa junction, please take a look off the
side of the road to see where cars have careened off the narrow but major artery
into the air, falling into a coffee field below.
Promises are made and road improvements are projected -- ask anyone from
the Kona districts and they will rattle off at least three projects that were supposed
to have been completed by now and are not -- ask three people, and and it's likely
they will each name three different ones, most likely. Here's one that could be
considered a broken promise in the making -- Kuakini Highway from Palani Road
to Hualalai Road. The County said, in essence, "Give us 18 months of traffic pain,
and we'll make Kuakini Highway into a splendid 4-lane road." GREAT! Of course,
traffic at both ends will still be stodgy, but it's a start. Have you seen this road lately?
It's as though the County is saying to Kailua: "Oh, you thought we meant two lanes
in EACH direction? We meant a two-lane road with turning lanes."
The roads are just a part of it, though. Parks, police and other emergency services,
as well as other necessary safety and recreation facilities are also neglected,
underfunded, and, as a result, struggling. We are even surprised to find a managing
police officer who actually lives in Kona.
Could it be that anything from Hilo is -- automatically -- the preferred child in the
eyes of our parental County government? Or is that just a perception?
I know the County does not have unlimited funds. I know there are people
within the County government trying to make the dispersal of funds in West
Hawaii more fair. But to understand the disparity, it is important to visit West
Hawaii frequently and to know both the situation and the daily aches and pains
of the people of West Hawaii first hand. We are a patient people, but our
patience is being strongly tested.
Politicians are servants of the people. Let the people decide.
Aloha,
Sarah Crawford
To Whom It May Concern:
I am in support of having an equal number of city council meetings on the west side as the east side of the island. Kona deserves the opportunity to have equity within the county. What if Kona taxpayers decided to no longer pay taxes that continue to pay for Hilo repairs? What if everything that occurs on the island were the exact opposite? Kona gets all the support and Hilo gets very little.
How about some balance within the county? What have the people of Kona done to deserve this type of treatment? Why should anyone be treated in this fashion? I'm sure their is something in the oath of council members as they take office to serve the people of the county and Hawaii to the best of their ability, not in the best interest of their side of the island.
Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have regarding this e-mail.
Sincerely,
Kapoula Thompson
These are all of the pros and cons:
Many thanks for your untiring efforts, your focus, your leadership!
Do you find it ironic that a hearing about whether hearings should be held in Kona is being held in Hilo?
The relatively low turn-out re the bus may not be apathy but illustrate PRECISELY the point! For many of us, not having hearings in Kona disenfranchises us. Hold the same hearings on the same bill in KONA, and it might be standing room only.
In lieu of going to Hilo, I am of course, sending in my testimony before the May 17th hearings.
I hope many other Kona folks do too. Having the address where I can send the testimony is always helpful. Thanks for including it.
Lois-ellin (Datta)
Perhaps we can get a smaller group to carpool over there. My friend Barbara and I are planning on going if we find one more person to split the cost of a tank of gas. I do believe that we can make a difference and can affect a change in the voting results of the upcoming elections. While this is an important battle, this is not the only battle we will have to win in order to make changes. Let's conserve our resources and plan on where we can make the greatest changes to local govt.
Sincerely yours,
Peter Wu
Wow Susan- you sound really mad, and i don't blame you. I should be in Hilo- where and when should i show up? Can you put an ad in the paper? debbie
Aloha Susan,
I have about 80 animals to feed so I can not leave until after feeding rounds are done at 9 am. I can go to the office in Kona or write letters in advance of the meeting. Which ever you think is better or both if you think effective.
Regards, Three Ring Ranch Exotic Animal Sanctuary
Kona, Hawaii Ann Goody, Curator
We are very active in the Democratic Party and Community Enterprises (Kailua Kona Town Meetings). We have several retirement supporting real estate projects that keep us young. However, we are always very surprised at the low turn out at meetings and related events. We understand your frustrations in trying to get people involved.
Community Enterprises is a recognized (state and federal) non-profit corporation. I am the technical support behind Carol Christianson in the organization. There are many elements of what your monthly group is attempting to accomplish that appeals to my ideas of a Town Meeting organization. I talked with Carol about your group and she was somewhat turned off by the political activism. However, I think that at sometime this month or next that you and I should meet and talk over our objectives.
It might be of a benefit for your group to merge into Community Enterprises.
If you would like I could email you copies of the Corporate Charter and Bylaws.
Mahalo for the good work,
Denny & Bonnie Coffman
Thanks for what you do. I cannot go to the meeting, but wish others with less responsibilities, and more time would. Don't give up!! Mary Beth Hilburn
I’ve only been here in Puna about 6 months. I own property here that I purchased 30 years ago. In the short time I have been here, I have been very interested in what makes Hawaii different from the rest of the 49 states. I frequently hear, “it’s just how things are in Hawaii”. Well, I wanted to learn a more about this “Hawaii thing”. The major eye opener for me was reading “The Price of Paradise” Volumes I and II. As I see it, you efforts are admirable, but I think you might want to look in a different direction to “fix it”.
Here’s how I see the situation:
Most of the funding comes from the state. Counties have comparatively little funding.
The state procurement system is flawed, which leads to corruption and all the things that go with corruption.
The civil service system is based on largesse, not competency.
The state budgeting system allows funds to be “hidden” from the public.
Elected officials are hardly ever voted out of office. We essentially have a one party system.
We have a second rate public educational system which does not make for good citizenship or a trained labor force.
The Bishop Foundation (one of the wealthiest in the US and certainly in Hawaii) is a payoff (through the appointment process) to politicians. Example, the governor appoints people to the State Supreme Court. The State Supreme Court appointment Bishop Foundation trustees, many of whom are former supreme courts justices.
The “Big Five”, Hawaiian airlines, Hawaiian Tel, both state banks have successfully lobbied to keep out competition.
I don’t know what the census data might show, but I am guessing the east side has proportionately more registered voters than the west side. This is due to the fact that many homeowners on the west side do not live here full-time.
For what it is worth.
Richard Bidleman
Pahoa
We our in favor of having an EQUAL amount of voice and representation from the District of Hawaii County member meetings, per year, for the {70 - 30% Tax Base} West Hawaii Residents. Aloha to Mayor Harry, Chris Yuen, Andy Iwashita, Lincoln Ashida, and Gary Safarik, at the private, secluded, Hilo Yacht Club meeting discussing "transparent" Public and very private funding agendas, from da catbirds in West Hawaii.
Mahalo, J.C. and Ann Shannon
I hope that you will give serious consideration to bill 268 and will vote yes on it.
That doesn't mean that meetings actually start to happen on both sides of this
enormous island -- it just means people get to vote on the possibility. It is only
fair that people have the opportunity to vote on this issue.
I wish I could attend your meeting this week, but, alas, I have commitments I
cannot change or miss. Perhaps if the meeting were in, say, Kailua, things
might be different.
No doubt you have heard there is a large outcry from the west side of the island.
There is a feeling of neglect and indifference from those in charge (Hilo and its
county government) about the west side of the island.
Yes, there are thoughts that there is taxation without adequate representation,
which should sound familiar from your civics classes of old; a feeling of East
getting the tax dollars -- with wide streets and, sometimes, actual shoulders
and sidewalks, occasionally even guardrails -- versus West, where the infrastructure
is crumbling and inadequate to begin with. Major roads in population centers in
West Hawaii can be narrow two-lane-no-shoulder and on-a-cliff-without-guardrails
affairs, whereas major roads in Hilo are boulevards with sidewalks. If you ever
drive Palani just down from the Mamalahoa junction, please take a look off the
side of the road to see where cars have careened off the narrow but major artery
into the air, falling into a coffee field below.
Promises are made and road improvements are projected -- ask anyone from
the Kona districts and they will rattle off at least three projects that were supposed
to have been completed by now and are not -- ask three people, and and it's likely
they will each name three different ones, most likely. Here's one that could be
considered a broken promise in the making -- Kuakini Highway from Palani Road
to Hualalai Road. The County said, in essence, "Give us 18 months of traffic pain,
and we'll make Kuakini Highway into a splendid 4-lane road." GREAT! Of course,
traffic at both ends will still be stodgy, but it's a start. Have you seen this road lately?
It's as though the County is saying to Kailua: "Oh, you thought we meant two lanes
in EACH direction? We meant a two-lane road with turning lanes."
The roads are just a part of it, though. Parks, police and other emergency services,
as well as other necessary safety and recreation facilities are also neglected,
underfunded, and, as a result, struggling. We are even surprised to find a managing
police officer who actually lives in Kona.
Could it be that anything from Hilo is -- automatically -- the preferred child in the
eyes of our parental County government? Or is that just a perception?
I know the County does not have unlimited funds. I know there are people
within the County government trying to make the dispersal of funds in West
Hawaii more fair. But to understand the disparity, it is important to visit West
Hawaii frequently and to know both the situation and the daily aches and pains
of the people of West Hawaii first hand. We are a patient people, but our
patience is being strongly tested.
Politicians are servants of the people. Let the people decide.
Aloha,
Sarah Crawford
To Whom It May Concern:
I am in support of having an equal number of city council meetings on the west side as the east side of the island. Kona deserves the opportunity to have equity within the county. What if Kona taxpayers decided to no longer pay taxes that continue to pay for Hilo repairs? What if everything that occurs on the island were the exact opposite? Kona gets all the support and Hilo gets very little.
How about some balance within the county? What have the people of Kona done to deserve this type of treatment? Why should anyone be treated in this fashion? I'm sure their is something in the oath of council members as they take office to serve the people of the county and Hawaii to the best of their ability, not in the best interest of their side of the island.
Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have regarding this e-mail.
Sincerely,
Kapoula Thompson
These are all of the pros and cons:
Many thanks for your untiring efforts, your focus, your leadership!
Do you find it ironic that a hearing about whether hearings should be held in Kona is being held in Hilo?
The relatively low turn-out re the bus may not be apathy but illustrate PRECISELY the point! For many of us, not having hearings in Kona disenfranchises us. Hold the same hearings on the same bill in KONA, and it might be standing room only.
In lieu of going to Hilo, I am of course, sending in my testimony before the May 17th hearings.
I hope many other Kona folks do too. Having the address where I can send the testimony is always helpful. Thanks for including it.
Lois-ellin (Datta)
Perhaps we can get a smaller group to carpool over there. My friend Barbara and I are planning on going if we find one more person to split the cost of a tank of gas. I do believe that we can make a difference and can affect a change in the voting results of the upcoming elections. While this is an important battle, this is not the only battle we will have to win in order to make changes. Let's conserve our resources and plan on where we can make the greatest changes to local govt.
Sincerely yours,
Peter Wu
Wow Susan- you sound really mad, and i don't blame you. I should be in Hilo- where and when should i show up? Can you put an ad in the paper? debbie
Aloha Susan,
I have about 80 animals to feed so I can not leave until after feeding rounds are done at 9 am. I can go to the office in Kona or write letters in advance of the meeting. Which ever you think is better or both if you think effective.
Regards, Three Ring Ranch Exotic Animal Sanctuary
Kona, Hawaii Ann Goody, Curator
We are very active in the Democratic Party and Community Enterprises (Kailua Kona Town Meetings). We have several retirement supporting real estate projects that keep us young. However, we are always very surprised at the low turn out at meetings and related events. We understand your frustrations in trying to get people involved.
Community Enterprises is a recognized (state and federal) non-profit corporation. I am the technical support behind Carol Christianson in the organization. There are many elements of what your monthly group is attempting to accomplish that appeals to my ideas of a Town Meeting organization. I talked with Carol about your group and she was somewhat turned off by the political activism. However, I think that at sometime this month or next that you and I should meet and talk over our objectives.
It might be of a benefit for your group to merge into Community Enterprises.
If you would like I could email you copies of the Corporate Charter and Bylaws.
Mahalo for the good work,
Denny & Bonnie Coffman
Thanks for what you do. I cannot go to the meeting, but wish others with less responsibilities, and more time would. Don't give up!! Mary Beth Hilburn
I’ve only been here in Puna about 6 months. I own property here that I purchased 30 years ago. In the short time I have been here, I have been very interested in what makes Hawaii different from the rest of the 49 states. I frequently hear, “it’s just how things are in Hawaii”. Well, I wanted to learn a more about this “Hawaii thing”. The major eye opener for me was reading “The Price of Paradise” Volumes I and II. As I see it, you efforts are admirable, but I think you might want to look in a different direction to “fix it”.
Here’s how I see the situation:
Most of the funding comes from the state. Counties have comparatively little funding.
The state procurement system is flawed, which leads to corruption and all the things that go with corruption.
The civil service system is based on largesse, not competency.
The state budgeting system allows funds to be “hidden” from the public.
Elected officials are hardly ever voted out of office. We essentially have a one party system.
We have a second rate public educational system which does not make for good citizenship or a trained labor force.
The Bishop Foundation (one of the wealthiest in the US and certainly in Hawaii) is a payoff (through the appointment process) to politicians. Example, the governor appoints people to the State Supreme Court. The State Supreme Court appointment Bishop Foundation trustees, many of whom are former supreme courts justices.
The “Big Five”, Hawaiian airlines, Hawaiian Tel, both state banks have successfully lobbied to keep out competition.
I don’t know what the census data might show, but I am guessing the east side has proportionately more registered voters than the west side. This is due to the fact that many homeowners on the west side do not live here full-time.
For what it is worth.
Richard Bidleman
Pahoa
We our in favor of having an EQUAL amount of voice and representation from the District of Hawaii County member meetings, per year, for the {70 - 30% Tax Base} West Hawaii Residents. Aloha to Mayor Harry, Chris Yuen, Andy Iwashita, Lincoln Ashida, and Gary Safarik, at the private, secluded, Hilo Yacht Club meeting discussing "transparent" Public and very private funding agendas, from da catbirds in West Hawaii.
Mahalo, J.C. and Ann Shannon
Thursday, May 11, 2006
My Final Plea--
Aloha Ladies and Gentlemen:
This is the final call for people of the West Hawaii that want to make a difference. We are trying to organize a bus to Hilo for May 17th, but we only have 4 people signed up to go.
This bus is to go to Hilo for the County Counsel meeting to vote for bill 268. If this passes (two more readings) we the TAX PAYERS will have the opportunity to VOTE in November to have every other county counsel meeting held on the west side of the island. Currently there are 20 meetings in Hilo and 4 meetings in Kona.
If you are tired of complaining and writing stink letters to the editor. If you are tired of people making decisions about Kona from 100 miles away;
Then this is it. If we don’t get a good turn out, then it means the people of Kona are satisfied with the current Government and
REALLY DON’T CARE.
This is my final plea. If there is zero involvement from the community then I am done with politics. I put in a lot of time and effort to better our community. Without your support we have nothing. A handful of people can not make changes. It takes thousands of people to come forward and take ownership in their community.
Sit in traffic and think about it! What is going to happen in 5 or 10 years? Nothing if you do nothing. It is totally up to you.
Thank you to the handful of supports that have come forward.
To go on the bus to Hilo:
Contact by Friday: mcgeachy@hawaii.rr.com
To send testimony:
SEND TESTIMONY ANY TIME PRIOR TO HEARING VIA EMAIL
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
> cc:
kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
> VIA FAX
> 329-4786 KONA
> 961-8912 HILO
>
> TO TESTIFY IN PERSON
> VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE FROM KONA AND WAIMEA OR AT THE HILO COUNCIL
> CHAMBERS
Signed, Susan McGeachy
mcgeachy@hawaii.rr.com
This is the final call for people of the West Hawaii that want to make a difference. We are trying to organize a bus to Hilo for May 17th, but we only have 4 people signed up to go.
This bus is to go to Hilo for the County Counsel meeting to vote for bill 268. If this passes (two more readings) we the TAX PAYERS will have the opportunity to VOTE in November to have every other county counsel meeting held on the west side of the island. Currently there are 20 meetings in Hilo and 4 meetings in Kona.
If you are tired of complaining and writing stink letters to the editor. If you are tired of people making decisions about Kona from 100 miles away;
Then this is it. If we don’t get a good turn out, then it means the people of Kona are satisfied with the current Government and
REALLY DON’T CARE.
This is my final plea. If there is zero involvement from the community then I am done with politics. I put in a lot of time and effort to better our community. Without your support we have nothing. A handful of people can not make changes. It takes thousands of people to come forward and take ownership in their community.
Sit in traffic and think about it! What is going to happen in 5 or 10 years? Nothing if you do nothing. It is totally up to you.
Thank you to the handful of supports that have come forward.
To go on the bus to Hilo:
Contact by Friday: mcgeachy@hawaii.rr.com
To send testimony:
SEND TESTIMONY ANY TIME PRIOR TO HEARING VIA EMAIL
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
> cc:
kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
> VIA FAX
> 329-4786 KONA
> 961-8912 HILO
>
> TO TESTIFY IN PERSON
> VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE FROM KONA AND WAIMEA OR AT THE HILO COUNCIL
> CHAMBERS
Signed, Susan McGeachy
mcgeachy@hawaii.rr.com
Monday, May 08, 2006
Call or Email me to Get on This Bus.
Here is your opportunity to go to our county council meeting in Hilo and testify or be present to make the impression that Kona counts and Kona can count!
Several important agenda items will be heard on May 17th not the least of which is Bill 268 to amend our County Charter to read the council will (not shall or may) meet in West Hawaii in odd numbered months.
As you know, the teleconferencing doesn’t give the impact that personal in-person testimony.
The bus will leave Coconut Grove Marketplace at 6:30 AM returning to the same location after testimony is complete. The cost is sure less than a tank of gas and you will have a professional driver and time to strategize about this issue and others…a traveling community meeting. Seats are now on sale at $16.50 and are on a first come basis. The bus capacity is 50. Reservations must be made by Friday, May 12 at noon. If at least 40 people have not signed up by that time, the bus will be canceled. What a shame that would be! We should be ordering 2 buses or 3!
We need to make this happen! mcgeachy@hawaii.rr.com or 325-7576
Several important agenda items will be heard on May 17th not the least of which is Bill 268 to amend our County Charter to read the council will (not shall or may) meet in West Hawaii in odd numbered months.
As you know, the teleconferencing doesn’t give the impact that personal in-person testimony.
The bus will leave Coconut Grove Marketplace at 6:30 AM returning to the same location after testimony is complete. The cost is sure less than a tank of gas and you will have a professional driver and time to strategize about this issue and others…a traveling community meeting. Seats are now on sale at $16.50 and are on a first come basis. The bus capacity is 50. Reservations must be made by Friday, May 12 at noon. If at least 40 people have not signed up by that time, the bus will be canceled. What a shame that would be! We should be ordering 2 buses or 3!
We need to make this happen! mcgeachy@hawaii.rr.com or 325-7576
Participation is the answer
Susan,
I just finished reading your article in "The Journal" and even though I live and work in Puna, I do also have a home in Kona. It is so obvious that Kona gets no improvements for all the tax dollars they pay. A taxpayer revolt would be entirely in order in this case. I am very busy, but I would try to attend a council meeting on this side and testify for fairness for Kona. Most people on this side of the island make trips to and use the beach parks on the Kona side. The roads and parks are like those of a third world country and I know because we lived in a third world country for two years. I have never seen public restrooms as bad as those at Hapuna Beach Park. It is a travesty. The road to Kekahakai State Park is a total joke. Activism is the only way to affect change because democracy is a participatory government........if you don't participate you lose.
I will try to help.
Thank you for all of your hard work and your selfless donation of time to achieve fairness.
Aloha,
Diana Schommer
I just finished reading your article in "The Journal" and even though I live and work in Puna, I do also have a home in Kona. It is so obvious that Kona gets no improvements for all the tax dollars they pay. A taxpayer revolt would be entirely in order in this case. I am very busy, but I would try to attend a council meeting on this side and testify for fairness for Kona. Most people on this side of the island make trips to and use the beach parks on the Kona side. The roads and parks are like those of a third world country and I know because we lived in a third world country for two years. I have never seen public restrooms as bad as those at Hapuna Beach Park. It is a travesty. The road to Kekahakai State Park is a total joke. Activism is the only way to affect change because democracy is a participatory government........if you don't participate you lose.
I will try to help.
Thank you for all of your hard work and your selfless donation of time to achieve fairness.
Aloha,
Diana Schommer
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Hokulia Bypass Litigation
http://aaronstene.blogspot.com/2006/05/hokulia-bypass-litigation_07.html
Hokulia Bypass Litigation
WHT had an article today on the continuing saga surrounding the Hokulia bypass road. The gist of this litigation is the adjoining landowner to the south of Hokulia is contesting the County of Hawaii's use of eminent domain to condemn 2.9 acres of their land for the much needed bypass road.
The land owners case rests on these areas :
"Their main argument, filed in 2001 as a counter motion to the county's eminent domain action, has been that the road is not for a valid public purpose, but to benefit the developer."
"While the property owner has raised the question of public use, Kamelamela said a range of other issues has also been brought into the proceedings, including legality of the development agreement between Oceanside 1250 and the county, possible unlawful delegation of condemnation powers, alleged violations of the state's procurement code and charges that an illegal zoning tax would be levied against anyone along the road who chose to upzone their property."
--
Aaron Stene
Hokulia Bypass Litigation
WHT had an article today on the continuing saga surrounding the Hokulia bypass road. The gist of this litigation is the adjoining landowner to the south of Hokulia is contesting the County of Hawaii's use of eminent domain to condemn 2.9 acres of their land for the much needed bypass road.
The land owners case rests on these areas :
"Their main argument, filed in 2001 as a counter motion to the county's eminent domain action, has been that the road is not for a valid public purpose, but to benefit the developer."
"While the property owner has raised the question of public use, Kamelamela said a range of other issues has also been brought into the proceedings, including legality of the development agreement between Oceanside 1250 and the county, possible unlawful delegation of condemnation powers, alleged violations of the state's procurement code and charges that an illegal zoning tax would be levied against anyone along the road who chose to upzone their property."
--
Aaron Stene
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Information to Track Bills Affecting Kona
ALOHA ALL
>
> FYI
> FOR YOUR INFORMATION TO TRACK BILLS AFFECTING KONA
>
> THIS IS THE LATEST VOTING RECORD
> ON ISSUES THAT IMPACT WEST HAWAI'I
>
>
> 5/1/06 FINANCE COMMITTEE
>
> Bill 268
> CHARTER AMENDMENT TO HOLD EQUAL NUMBER OF MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAII
> * Mr. Pilago introduces this Bill to give West Hawai'i residents Fair
> and Equitable Access to Government
> * Ayes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Safarik, Jacobson and Isbell
> * Kanalua (2x's = yes): Holschuh and Higa
> * Noes: Ikeda and Arakaki
> * Moves to 5/17 Council Agenda - WE NEED YOUR TESTIMONY TO PASS IT!
> * Needs 2/3 majority to pass and be put on Nov. ballot for voters to
> decide
> *
> * Resolution 315
> * $2,000 to Alternatives to Drugs Video Contest from Mr. Pilago's
> contingency
> * Unanimous - moves to 5/17 Council Agenda
> *
> * Resolution 316
> * $5,000 to Kona Kohala Chamber of Commerce Environment Committee from
> Mr. Pilago's contingency
> * For E Pulama I Ka Honua (Cherish the Earth) Festival
> * Unanimous - moves to 5/17 Council Agenda
> *
> * Bill 271
> * $50,000 for streetlights in Kailua-Kona from Mr. Pilago's
> contingency
> * For public safety and security
> * $30,000 for Roads in Limbo - District 8 from Mr. Pilago's
> contingency
> * For public safety, rapid response to emergencies, and civil
> defense
> * Unanimous - moves to 5/17 Council Agenda
> *
> * 5/1/06 PLANNING COMMITTEE
> *
> * Bill 251
> * SCD Kona 108, LLC Kona Coffee Estates, applicant to rezone 97.347
> acres of land above Lowe's
> * Will add to traffic on Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy. and Kailua-Kona
> * Not enough water available
> * No roads, no parks, additional impacts to schools
> * Good sense to hold off until roads and infrastructure are improved
> * Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Isbell
> * Ayes: Arakaki, Higa, Ikeda, Holschuh, Safarik
> * Moves to 5/17 Council Agenda
> *
> *
> * Bill 247
> * D. Smith, applicant to rezone Ag. 20acres to Family Ag. 3acres in
> Kaloko
> * Will add to traffic on Mamalahoa Hwy. and Palani Road
> * Dangerous intersection at Kaloko Dr.
> * Damage to forest and watershed and endangered species
> * Project should wait for State and County to fix intersection and
> roads.
> * Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Isbell
> * Ayes: Arakaki, Higa, Ikeda, Holschuh, Safarik
> * Moves to 5/17 Council Agenda
> *
> *
> *
> * 5/2/06 COUNCIL MEETING
> *
> * Bills 226 & 227
> * Lava Kuakini, to rezone Ag. to Urban for a 212-unit townhouse
> project off Kuakini Hwy. next to Hillcrest
> * Will add to traffic
> * Not enough water
> * Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson
> * Ayes: Arakaki, Isbell, Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Safarik
> * Next opportunity to testify will be May 17th Council meeting
> *
> * Bill 246
> * Amendments to the Subdivision Code
> * Court finds Planning Dept. to be illegal in not following
> Subdivision Code.
> * Dept. wants to change Code to cover illegalities
> * Mr. Pilago does not support the amendments - the Dept. must follow
> the law!
> * Changes to the Code must have full public participation and adhere
> to open-government policies.
> * Noes: Pilago, Jacobson
> * Ayes: Arakaki, Isbell, Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Safarik, Hoffmann
> * Next opportunity to testify will be May 17th Council meeting
> *
> * KALOKO MAUKA REZONINGS:
> *
> * Bills 228
> * J. Totah, applicant to rezone 21 acres from Ag. 20 acres to Ag. 10
> acres in Kaloko mauka
> * Will add to traffic on Mamalahoa Hwy. and Palani Road
> * Dangerous intersection at Kaloko Dr.
> * Damage to forest and watershed and endangered species
> * Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson
> * Ayes: Arakaki, Isbell, Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Safarik
> *
> *
> * Bills 229
> * S. Gesling, applicant to rezone 23 acres from Ag. 20 acres to Ag. 5
> acres in Kaloko mauka
> * Will add traffic on Mamalahoa Hwy. and Palani Road
> * Dangerous intersection at Kaloko Dr.
> * Damage to forest and watershed and endangered species
> * Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson
> * Ayes: Arakaki, Isbell, Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Safarik
> *
> *
> * IMPORTANT BILLS COMING UP NEXT
> *
> * 5/16/06 PLANNING COMMITTEE
> *
> * Bills 224 and 225
> * Charles Schwab - Hilu Hilu Development / Palamanui, applicant to
> rezone 725 acres of land from Ag 3-a and Open to Project District for
> an
> 855 unit development located above the Kona airport and mauka of Queen
> Ka'ahumanu Highway.
> * Developers originally promised to build UH facility, connector roads
> and infrastructure
> * At April 26, 2006 Public Hearing Developer and UH DO NOT have an
> agreement
> * Mr. Pilago has requested developer to bring evidence of binding
> agreements to the next meeting.
> *
> * 5/17/06 COUNCIL MEETING
> *
> * Bill 268
> * CHARTER AMENDMENT TO HOLD EQUAL NUMBER OF MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAII
> * SUPPORT this important legislation.
> * Tell your council members to vote YES and get this charter amendment
> on the ballot in November.
> * LET THE VOTERS DECIDE! IT'S THEIR GOVERNMENT! AND THEIR MONEY!
> * SEND TESTIMONY
> * SEND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
> * TESTIFY IN PERSON OR BY VIDEOCONFERENCE
> * 1st reading in Hilo 5/17/06
> * 2nd reading in Hilo 6/6/06
> * 3rd reading will be held in W. Hawaii on 6/21/06
> * WE NEED YOUR TESTIMONY
> * IMPORTANT THAT YOU ARE THERE!
> *
> * Bill 246
> * Planning Director wants to amend the Subdivision Code
> * The current law: County rules require that complete information be
> provided with subdivision applications.
> * The problem: County moves incomplete applications forward.
> * Mr. Pilago does not support the amendments - Planning Director
> should follow the law.
>
> WHEN THE AGENDA COMES OUT WE WILL LET YOU KNOW MEETING TIMES YOU MAY
> SEND TESTIMONY ANY TIME PRIOR TO HEARING VIA EMAIL
> counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
> cc:
> kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
>
> VIA FAX
> 329-4786 KONA
> 961-8912 HILO
>
> BEST TO TESTIFY IN PERSON
> VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE FROM KONA AND WAIMEA OR AT THE HILO COUNCIL
> CHAMBERS
>
> MAHALO FOR YOUR INTEREST AND PARTICIPATION IN COUNTY GOVERNMENT Angel,
> Maile and Karen
>
>
>
> Karen Eoff, Aide to
> Councilman K. Angel Pilago
> District 8, North Kona
> 808-327-3642
> www.angelcouncil.org
>
> Maile David
> Legislative Assistant
> 327-3638
> www.angelcouncil.org
>
> K. Angel Pilago
> Councilman, District 8
> 327-3642
>
> FYI
> FOR YOUR INFORMATION TO TRACK BILLS AFFECTING KONA
>
> THIS IS THE LATEST VOTING RECORD
> ON ISSUES THAT IMPACT WEST HAWAI'I
>
>
> 5/1/06 FINANCE COMMITTEE
>
> Bill 268
> CHARTER AMENDMENT TO HOLD EQUAL NUMBER OF MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAII
> * Mr. Pilago introduces this Bill to give West Hawai'i residents Fair
> and Equitable Access to Government
> * Ayes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Safarik, Jacobson and Isbell
> * Kanalua (2x's = yes): Holschuh and Higa
> * Noes: Ikeda and Arakaki
> * Moves to 5/17 Council Agenda - WE NEED YOUR TESTIMONY TO PASS IT!
> * Needs 2/3 majority to pass and be put on Nov. ballot for voters to
> decide
> *
> * Resolution 315
> * $2,000 to Alternatives to Drugs Video Contest from Mr. Pilago's
> contingency
> * Unanimous - moves to 5/17 Council Agenda
> *
> * Resolution 316
> * $5,000 to Kona Kohala Chamber of Commerce Environment Committee from
> Mr. Pilago's contingency
> * For E Pulama I Ka Honua (Cherish the Earth) Festival
> * Unanimous - moves to 5/17 Council Agenda
> *
> * Bill 271
> * $50,000 for streetlights in Kailua-Kona from Mr. Pilago's
> contingency
> * For public safety and security
> * $30,000 for Roads in Limbo - District 8 from Mr. Pilago's
> contingency
> * For public safety, rapid response to emergencies, and civil
> defense
> * Unanimous - moves to 5/17 Council Agenda
> *
> * 5/1/06 PLANNING COMMITTEE
> *
> * Bill 251
> * SCD Kona 108, LLC Kona Coffee Estates, applicant to rezone 97.347
> acres of land above Lowe's
> * Will add to traffic on Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy. and Kailua-Kona
> * Not enough water available
> * No roads, no parks, additional impacts to schools
> * Good sense to hold off until roads and infrastructure are improved
> * Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Isbell
> * Ayes: Arakaki, Higa, Ikeda, Holschuh, Safarik
> * Moves to 5/17 Council Agenda
> *
> *
> * Bill 247
> * D. Smith, applicant to rezone Ag. 20acres to Family Ag. 3acres in
> Kaloko
> * Will add to traffic on Mamalahoa Hwy. and Palani Road
> * Dangerous intersection at Kaloko Dr.
> * Damage to forest and watershed and endangered species
> * Project should wait for State and County to fix intersection and
> roads.
> * Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson, Isbell
> * Ayes: Arakaki, Higa, Ikeda, Holschuh, Safarik
> * Moves to 5/17 Council Agenda
> *
> *
> *
> * 5/2/06 COUNCIL MEETING
> *
> * Bills 226 & 227
> * Lava Kuakini, to rezone Ag. to Urban for a 212-unit townhouse
> project off Kuakini Hwy. next to Hillcrest
> * Will add to traffic
> * Not enough water
> * Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson
> * Ayes: Arakaki, Isbell, Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Safarik
> * Next opportunity to testify will be May 17th Council meeting
> *
> * Bill 246
> * Amendments to the Subdivision Code
> * Court finds Planning Dept. to be illegal in not following
> Subdivision Code.
> * Dept. wants to change Code to cover illegalities
> * Mr. Pilago does not support the amendments - the Dept. must follow
> the law!
> * Changes to the Code must have full public participation and adhere
> to open-government policies.
> * Noes: Pilago, Jacobson
> * Ayes: Arakaki, Isbell, Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Safarik, Hoffmann
> * Next opportunity to testify will be May 17th Council meeting
> *
> * KALOKO MAUKA REZONINGS:
> *
> * Bills 228
> * J. Totah, applicant to rezone 21 acres from Ag. 20 acres to Ag. 10
> acres in Kaloko mauka
> * Will add to traffic on Mamalahoa Hwy. and Palani Road
> * Dangerous intersection at Kaloko Dr.
> * Damage to forest and watershed and endangered species
> * Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson
> * Ayes: Arakaki, Isbell, Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Safarik
> *
> *
> * Bills 229
> * S. Gesling, applicant to rezone 23 acres from Ag. 20 acres to Ag. 5
> acres in Kaloko mauka
> * Will add traffic on Mamalahoa Hwy. and Palani Road
> * Dangerous intersection at Kaloko Dr.
> * Damage to forest and watershed and endangered species
> * Noes: Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson
> * Ayes: Arakaki, Isbell, Higa, Holschuh, Ikeda, Safarik
> *
> *
> * IMPORTANT BILLS COMING UP NEXT
> *
> * 5/16/06 PLANNING COMMITTEE
> *
> * Bills 224 and 225
> * Charles Schwab - Hilu Hilu Development / Palamanui, applicant to
> rezone 725 acres of land from Ag 3-a and Open to Project District for
> an
> 855 unit development located above the Kona airport and mauka of Queen
> Ka'ahumanu Highway.
> * Developers originally promised to build UH facility, connector roads
> and infrastructure
> * At April 26, 2006 Public Hearing Developer and UH DO NOT have an
> agreement
> * Mr. Pilago has requested developer to bring evidence of binding
> agreements to the next meeting.
> *
> * 5/17/06 COUNCIL MEETING
> *
> * Bill 268
> * CHARTER AMENDMENT TO HOLD EQUAL NUMBER OF MEETINGS IN WEST HAWAII
> * SUPPORT this important legislation.
> * Tell your council members to vote YES and get this charter amendment
> on the ballot in November.
> * LET THE VOTERS DECIDE! IT'S THEIR GOVERNMENT! AND THEIR MONEY!
> * SEND TESTIMONY
> * SEND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
> * TESTIFY IN PERSON OR BY VIDEOCONFERENCE
> * 1st reading in Hilo 5/17/06
> * 2nd reading in Hilo 6/6/06
> * 3rd reading will be held in W. Hawaii on 6/21/06
> * WE NEED YOUR TESTIMONY
> * IMPORTANT THAT YOU ARE THERE!
> *
> * Bill 246
> * Planning Director wants to amend the Subdivision Code
> * The current law: County rules require that complete information be
> provided with subdivision applications.
> * The problem: County moves incomplete applications forward.
> * Mr. Pilago does not support the amendments - Planning Director
> should follow the law.
>
> WHEN THE AGENDA COMES OUT WE WILL LET YOU KNOW MEETING TIMES YOU MAY
> SEND TESTIMONY ANY TIME PRIOR TO HEARING VIA EMAIL
> counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
> cc:
> kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
>
> VIA FAX
> 329-4786 KONA
> 961-8912 HILO
>
> BEST TO TESTIFY IN PERSON
> VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE FROM KONA AND WAIMEA OR AT THE HILO COUNCIL
> CHAMBERS
>
> MAHALO FOR YOUR INTEREST AND PARTICIPATION IN COUNTY GOVERNMENT Angel,
> Maile and Karen
>
>
>
> Karen Eoff, Aide to
> Councilman K. Angel Pilago
> District 8, North Kona
> 808-327-3642
> www.angelcouncil.org
>
> Maile David
> Legislative Assistant
> 327-3638
> www.angelcouncil.org
>
> K. Angel Pilago
> Councilman, District 8
> 327-3642
Looking for a volunteer to serve as Commisioner Dist. 8
Dear Susan:
On the chance that one of your members is interested in helping identify waste in County government, here's a way to do it. I am proud to have served as chair of the first Cost of Government Commission four years ago, and learned a lot about the workings of our government.
Aloha,Joel
County Seeks Cost of Government Commission Member for District 8Hawai`i County is currently recruiting a citizen volunteer to serve as commissioner to represent District 8 (Council member Angel Pilago's district) on the Cost of Government Commission.The Commission serves for a period of 11 months only, and is empaneled one year after the Mayor is elected into office. Their mission is to study and investigate present operations within the County of Hawai`i, and make recommendations to the Mayor and Hawai`i County Council on how improvements in County government may be made.For further information, please contact Corporation Counsel Lincoln Ashida at 961-8251. Completed applications can be dropped off or mailed to Lincoln Ashida at the Office of the Corporation Counsel at the Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Suite 325, Hilo, HI 96720.Application forms may be picked up in Hilo at the Office of Information and Complaints at Room 217, 25 Aupuni Street and in Kona at the Kona Mayor's Office at Hanama Place, Kailua-Kona. You may also find an application form on line at www.hawaii-county.com .
On the chance that one of your members is interested in helping identify waste in County government, here's a way to do it. I am proud to have served as chair of the first Cost of Government Commission four years ago, and learned a lot about the workings of our government.
Aloha,Joel
County Seeks Cost of Government Commission Member for District 8Hawai`i County is currently recruiting a citizen volunteer to serve as commissioner to represent District 8 (Council member Angel Pilago's district) on the Cost of Government Commission.The Commission serves for a period of 11 months only, and is empaneled one year after the Mayor is elected into office. Their mission is to study and investigate present operations within the County of Hawai`i, and make recommendations to the Mayor and Hawai`i County Council on how improvements in County government may be made.For further information, please contact Corporation Counsel Lincoln Ashida at 961-8251. Completed applications can be dropped off or mailed to Lincoln Ashida at the Office of the Corporation Counsel at the Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Suite 325, Hilo, HI 96720.Application forms may be picked up in Hilo at the Office of Information and Complaints at Room 217, 25 Aupuni Street and in Kona at the Kona Mayor's Office at Hanama Place, Kailua-Kona. You may also find an application form on line at www.hawaii-county.com .
Josh Green M.D. State Rep. Dist. 6, Kona
Dear Friend, The legislative session ended yesterday and I want to thank you for all of your ideas and support. I am very proud of the results we have achieved for Kona over the last two years:
1. Over $50 million for new roads, schools and clinics in Kona including:
$30 million for new highway construction to improve traffic flow on Queen Kaahumanu highway
$11.5 million for Kona public schools
$10 million for new connector roads and road safety resources
2. Universal healthcare coverage for Hawaii's children with the Quest insurance expansion and the new Keiki Care plan which I fought for and strongly believe in, 3. Ice Prevention resources for every single middle school in our state, 4. $50 million for statewide affordable housing, with $1 million specifically going to a homeless facility in West Hawaii, 5. The creation of a devoted Trauma Fund and Community Health Center Fund to ensure the well-being and safety of everyone in Hawaii.
Today I will begin walking our district door to door to ask for your ideas on how we can continue to make Kailua-Kona a better place to live, and also to ask you for your support so that I may remain your Representative in the Hawaii State House. Over the next six months I will be out in our community knocking on doors, making telephone calls, and sign waving. I hope to talk to you personally so I can understand your individual ideas and concerns for our community.
Together we have already achieved PROVEN RESULTS FOR KONA! I believe we can and will achieve even more in the coming years. Sincerely,Josh
Josh Green M.D.State RepresentativeDistrict 6, Kona
1. Over $50 million for new roads, schools and clinics in Kona including:
$30 million for new highway construction to improve traffic flow on Queen Kaahumanu highway
$11.5 million for Kona public schools
$10 million for new connector roads and road safety resources
2. Universal healthcare coverage for Hawaii's children with the Quest insurance expansion and the new Keiki Care plan which I fought for and strongly believe in, 3. Ice Prevention resources for every single middle school in our state, 4. $50 million for statewide affordable housing, with $1 million specifically going to a homeless facility in West Hawaii, 5. The creation of a devoted Trauma Fund and Community Health Center Fund to ensure the well-being and safety of everyone in Hawaii.
Today I will begin walking our district door to door to ask for your ideas on how we can continue to make Kailua-Kona a better place to live, and also to ask you for your support so that I may remain your Representative in the Hawaii State House. Over the next six months I will be out in our community knocking on doors, making telephone calls, and sign waving. I hope to talk to you personally so I can understand your individual ideas and concerns for our community.
Together we have already achieved PROVEN RESULTS FOR KONA! I believe we can and will achieve even more in the coming years. Sincerely,Josh
Josh Green M.D.State RepresentativeDistrict 6, Kona
Kanalua, literally translated, means "to doubt."
What is Kanalua and why would the county councel members wants to use it? This is from the Starbulletin via Aaron Stene.
http://starbulletin.com/98/12/25/news/story3.html
http://starbulletin.com/98/12/25/news/story3.html
Thursday, May 04, 2006
More responses:
Dear Susan:I wholeheartedly support placing the Council meeting issue on the ballot for the voters to decide, but I suggest caution in using the argument that because "we" pay 70% of the property taxes, "we" should get 70% of the meetings, roads, etc. The fact is that "we" includes South Kohala, which contributes a significant portion (probably nearly as much as North Kona) of the West Hawaii property taxes because of the high taxes on the resorts and resort homes, most of which are not the owners' primary residences. So if meetings and roads are to be apportioned according to property taxes, Waimea should get as much as Kailua-Kona.The better argument is that approximately half of the population calls the west side "home," so the voters should be given the opportunity to vote on whether half of the meetings should be more accessible to west siders, which will help council members better understand their needs and desires for county services. And we should support videoconferencing to allow east siders to participate in west side meetings, just as we've been participating via videoconferencing in east side meetings. The voters, of course, will have to consider the extra costs involved.
Aloha,Joel Gimpel
Aloha Joel,
I respect everyone’s opinion and that is why I post it. As long as they are not trying to sell or market something I will print it.
As for the 70%. My feeling is if you see the sun set you are on the west side and if you see the sun rise then you are on the east side.
Back in 1959 the original design called for Honokaa on east and Kau on west. There wasn’t a population to support a separate county so they never created the separate county.
Freedom of speech and sharing ideas is the only way to bring about change.
Thank you for your input.
Susan
Aloha,Joel Gimpel
Aloha Joel,
I respect everyone’s opinion and that is why I post it. As long as they are not trying to sell or market something I will print it.
As for the 70%. My feeling is if you see the sun set you are on the west side and if you see the sun rise then you are on the east side.
Back in 1959 the original design called for Honokaa on east and Kau on west. There wasn’t a population to support a separate county so they never created the separate county.
Freedom of speech and sharing ideas is the only way to bring about change.
Thank you for your input.
Susan
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Public Comments on Bill 268 FAIR/EQUAL?
The Vote was actually 7 to 2, but 2 of the votes were Kanalua. Which is a I'm not sure vote and becomes a yes. So the Vote is really up in the air as to how this will work out. The next reading will be on the 17th of May. We are planning on getting a bus to Hilo. If you want to go please email me and we will go in numbers. Please Please Please ask everyone you know to send in testimony in favor of Bill 268. Fair and Equal Access of Government; let it to come to the voters in November. Let the tax payers decide.
Thank you for your patience. This government process is like the twilight zone. Are the County Council members going to vote in favor of letting the people decide or are they going to kill it?
Who knows. Susan
Susan: if a member votes 'kanalua' twice, it is a yes vote. There's some type of long tradition that includes the 'kanalua' as a uniquely Hawaiian practice. I'll admit not having the details. In practice at the Council, it allows a Council member to be by-passed temporarily when he first votes 'kanalua' to see how others will vote. (We vote in alphabetical order, except for the Chair who votes last). If the member still is undecided, he/she can vote 'kanalua' again, but that vote stands as a 'yes' and the member knows it.
I keep saying, its not necessarily what the individual says during discussion. All too often, some of our members 'posture' for the camera. What counts is how one votes. There's too many examples of Council members voting no in Committee and then changing their votes once a measure hits the full Council for no apparent reason.
Hang in there. Pete
Aloha Susan,
Thank you for going and testifying today. I agree with you 100%!
However, there were really only 2 no votes. Holschuh and Higa voted Kanalua, which is counted as Yes.
I just feel we need to put out accurate information.
I did email the council about this issue and will do so again as needed.
Mahalo for all your efforts.
Aloha,
Dan Sabo
Aloha Susan
This amendment needs 6 votes on the next 3 readings to get on the ballot.
Aloha
Bob Jacobson
or, he can bring a lawn chair or one he thinks is comphy!
I applaud your commitment and feel your frustration. Remember not to get too attached to results as that is the cause of all suffering; the desire for things to be different.. This is not a reprimand, but some advice you can either take or leave to help decrease the stress level in your life.
Perhaps we can focus on smaller scale strategies that will affect the most change. Like Pete Hoffman said, it took about 15% of the voters to get him elected with the low turnout in West Hawaii. We can make that work to our advantage.
What I see is that the County recognises it has been doing many things illegally for years and is ripe for multiple lawsuits, especially with the way it enforces building codes for developers. Curt DeWeiss looks like he is going to become Curt Litigation soon with all the problems cropping up at his properties. Look at what Hokulia got the County to agree to after threatening a lawsuit the County had a good chance of losing. So my personal fac strategy is the class action lawsuit by West Hawaii Citizens for discrimination in how County Funds are spent. It is easy to show that we pay 70%+ of the tax base and they spend less than 10% on improving roads on our side. I think that Mayor Kim has said at some Hilo meeting that they have no intentions of building roads in West Hawaii until 2014 or something like that. That would be the fastest way, in my opinion of affecting a change in County spending policy.
Peter Wu
Excellent response Ms. Susan.....I called the Mayor's office and Dixie Katsu to let them know that their Kona Mayor's office personal have no clue to where the District Councilman's office are and what is the agenda for the day. This is the incompetent lack of communication for public information for West Hawaii residents that seems to prevail under Kim's "nice guy" Administration. Keep up the great work and we will help and support your efforts.....da catbirds
Yeh Susan;
I sent an e-mail also giving support and sugesting any "thinking" representative would consider giving us 70% of the meetings since we pay that portion of the taxes.
We will be watching who votes how. And then I think we need to have a table at he Safe way location getting voters registered and involved before the vote occurs.
Mahalo, Faye
I sent in an email. Does this count for anything or do you have to be there and testify. That isn't possible for many people, but I will try to make it next time.
bev Leonhardt.
Mahalo for your efforts and testimony Susan. I sent you an e-mail after your first meeting stating how incredibly hard it is in Kona to get and keep people on the path towards some equality. "C.E.R.G. found that out specifically re: reapportionment issue.
That being said, consider the weather before throwing in the beach towel. I did send an e-mail, but the good old boys don't really care. Virginia Isbell? Ego and control, paramount in her agenda.
Fred Holschuh, should acknowledge he's probably too damn old if it's only the seats that bother him.
Real estate mantra, location, etc., etc.. My mantra, the weather, the weather, the weather.
Mahalo and Aloha
Stan Boren
I emailed my testimony. Debbie Hecht
Aloha Susan,
Reality is that your efforts are making a difference. Keep the faith, things can only get better with public participation. Heck, it can't get much worse.
Mahalo, Isaac and Tammy Harp
Waimea
Hi Susan
I sent an e-mail this time because I had other commitments. Please let me know the next time this comes and I will attend and try and get all of my friends to come as well. Thank you for all of the work you are doing for all of us. Please, don't go back to reality, it really isn't all its cracked up to be and the weather is lousy!
Aloha,
Avis
Thank you for your patience. This government process is like the twilight zone. Are the County Council members going to vote in favor of letting the people decide or are they going to kill it?
Who knows. Susan
Susan: if a member votes 'kanalua' twice, it is a yes vote. There's some type of long tradition that includes the 'kanalua' as a uniquely Hawaiian practice. I'll admit not having the details. In practice at the Council, it allows a Council member to be by-passed temporarily when he first votes 'kanalua' to see how others will vote. (We vote in alphabetical order, except for the Chair who votes last). If the member still is undecided, he/she can vote 'kanalua' again, but that vote stands as a 'yes' and the member knows it.
I keep saying, its not necessarily what the individual says during discussion. All too often, some of our members 'posture' for the camera. What counts is how one votes. There's too many examples of Council members voting no in Committee and then changing their votes once a measure hits the full Council for no apparent reason.
Hang in there. Pete
Aloha Susan,
Thank you for going and testifying today. I agree with you 100%!
However, there were really only 2 no votes. Holschuh and Higa voted Kanalua, which is counted as Yes.
I just feel we need to put out accurate information.
I did email the council about this issue and will do so again as needed.
Mahalo for all your efforts.
Aloha,
Dan Sabo
Aloha Susan
This amendment needs 6 votes on the next 3 readings to get on the ballot.
Aloha
Bob Jacobson
or, he can bring a lawn chair or one he thinks is comphy!
I applaud your commitment and feel your frustration. Remember not to get too attached to results as that is the cause of all suffering; the desire for things to be different.. This is not a reprimand, but some advice you can either take or leave to help decrease the stress level in your life.
Perhaps we can focus on smaller scale strategies that will affect the most change. Like Pete Hoffman said, it took about 15% of the voters to get him elected with the low turnout in West Hawaii. We can make that work to our advantage.
What I see is that the County recognises it has been doing many things illegally for years and is ripe for multiple lawsuits, especially with the way it enforces building codes for developers. Curt DeWeiss looks like he is going to become Curt Litigation soon with all the problems cropping up at his properties. Look at what Hokulia got the County to agree to after threatening a lawsuit the County had a good chance of losing. So my personal fac strategy is the class action lawsuit by West Hawaii Citizens for discrimination in how County Funds are spent. It is easy to show that we pay 70%+ of the tax base and they spend less than 10% on improving roads on our side. I think that Mayor Kim has said at some Hilo meeting that they have no intentions of building roads in West Hawaii until 2014 or something like that. That would be the fastest way, in my opinion of affecting a change in County spending policy.
Peter Wu
Excellent response Ms. Susan.....I called the Mayor's office and Dixie Katsu to let them know that their Kona Mayor's office personal have no clue to where the District Councilman's office are and what is the agenda for the day. This is the incompetent lack of communication for public information for West Hawaii residents that seems to prevail under Kim's "nice guy" Administration. Keep up the great work and we will help and support your efforts.....da catbirds
Yeh Susan;
I sent an e-mail also giving support and sugesting any "thinking" representative would consider giving us 70% of the meetings since we pay that portion of the taxes.
We will be watching who votes how. And then I think we need to have a table at he Safe way location getting voters registered and involved before the vote occurs.
Mahalo, Faye
I sent in an email. Does this count for anything or do you have to be there and testify. That isn't possible for many people, but I will try to make it next time.
bev Leonhardt.
Mahalo for your efforts and testimony Susan. I sent you an e-mail after your first meeting stating how incredibly hard it is in Kona to get and keep people on the path towards some equality. "C.E.R.G. found that out specifically re: reapportionment issue.
That being said, consider the weather before throwing in the beach towel. I did send an e-mail, but the good old boys don't really care. Virginia Isbell? Ego and control, paramount in her agenda.
Fred Holschuh, should acknowledge he's probably too damn old if it's only the seats that bother him.
Real estate mantra, location, etc., etc.. My mantra, the weather, the weather, the weather.
Mahalo and Aloha
Stan Boren
I emailed my testimony. Debbie Hecht
Aloha Susan,
Reality is that your efforts are making a difference. Keep the faith, things can only get better with public participation. Heck, it can't get much worse.
Mahalo, Isaac and Tammy Harp
Waimea
Hi Susan
I sent an e-mail this time because I had other commitments. Please let me know the next time this comes and I will attend and try and get all of my friends to come as well. Thank you for all of the work you are doing for all of us. Please, don't go back to reality, it really isn't all its cracked up to be and the weather is lousy!
Aloha,
Avis
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Enough is Enough.
Aloha Dan,
Thank you, from the Video camera it looked like 4 to 5. Holschuh and Higa talked it down the entire time.
I give up.
40 people total either sent in an email or testified. What about the thousands of others on the West side. Apparently they really don't care.
My quote in the paper was taken out of context and not given a reason why voting against the bill should result in getting the boot. For the Record this is what I said. “Any county council member that votes against this bill should get the boot. It flat out says” we don’t want to be fair or equal to ALL of the tax payers.” My comments still stand. These 9 county council members are voted by the tax payers and are expected to provide fair and equal government process to ALL OF THE TAX PAYERS of this entire island.
I have had it with the government process or the lack of.
Enough is enough.
Signed ready to move back to reality.
Susan McGeachy
-----Original Message-----From: Dan & Marlene [mailto:konasabo@hawaii.rr.com] Sent: Monday, May 01, 2006 7:47 PMTo: Susan McGeachyCc: Dan & MarleneSubject: Re: Letter to the Editor
Aloha Susan,
Thank you for going and testifying today. I agree with you 100%!
However, there were really only 2 no votes. Holschuh and Higa voted
Kanalua, which is counted as Yes.
I just feel we need to put out accurate information.
I did email the council about this issue and will do so again as needed.
Mahalo for all your efforts.
Aloha,
Dan Sabo
Thank you, from the Video camera it looked like 4 to 5. Holschuh and Higa talked it down the entire time.
I give up.
40 people total either sent in an email or testified. What about the thousands of others on the West side. Apparently they really don't care.
My quote in the paper was taken out of context and not given a reason why voting against the bill should result in getting the boot. For the Record this is what I said. “Any county council member that votes against this bill should get the boot. It flat out says” we don’t want to be fair or equal to ALL of the tax payers.” My comments still stand. These 9 county council members are voted by the tax payers and are expected to provide fair and equal government process to ALL OF THE TAX PAYERS of this entire island.
I have had it with the government process or the lack of.
Enough is enough.
Signed ready to move back to reality.
Susan McGeachy
-----Original Message-----From: Dan & Marlene [mailto:konasabo@hawaii.rr.com] Sent: Monday, May 01, 2006 7:47 PMTo: Susan McGeachyCc: Dan & MarleneSubject: Re: Letter to the Editor
Aloha Susan,
Thank you for going and testifying today. I agree with you 100%!
However, there were really only 2 no votes. Holschuh and Higa voted
Kanalua, which is counted as Yes.
I just feel we need to put out accurate information.
I did email the council about this issue and will do so again as needed.
Mahalo for all your efforts.
Aloha,
Dan Sabo
Monday, May 01, 2006
Thank you
Aloha,
Thank you to everyone who sent in testimony and/or came in person to testify on this important legislation. We received over 40 written statements and 10 oral testimonies supporting the Bill to have equal number of Council meetings in West Hawai'i.
The Bill passed with a 2/3 majority.
Pilago, Hoffmann, Isbell, Safarik, and Jacobson voted YES Holschuh and Higa voted KANALUA which counted as YES Ikeda and Arakaki voted NO
There will be 3 more readings on this Bill and it needs a 2/3 majority to pass. It will then go on the ballot in November for the voters to decide.
We will keep you informed of the meeting dates and encourage you to come out and testify when possible.
Again,
Mahalo nui loa
Karen
Maile
Angel
Thank you to everyone who sent in testimony and/or came in person to testify on this important legislation. We received over 40 written statements and 10 oral testimonies supporting the Bill to have equal number of Council meetings in West Hawai'i.
The Bill passed with a 2/3 majority.
Pilago, Hoffmann, Isbell, Safarik, and Jacobson voted YES Holschuh and Higa voted KANALUA which counted as YES Ikeda and Arakaki voted NO
There will be 3 more readings on this Bill and it needs a 2/3 majority to pass. It will then go on the ballot in November for the voters to decide.
We will keep you informed of the meeting dates and encourage you to come out and testify when possible.
Again,
Mahalo nui loa
Karen
Maile
Angel
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