We Need your testimony to get the meetings equalized

> ALOHA:
>
> I have introduced Resolution 402-06 to Change the Council Rules.
>
> On Thursday, July 6th @ 9:00 AM
> Finance Committee will hear:
> Resolution 402-06
> A RESOLUTION AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 99-05, RULES OF PROCEDURE AND
> ORGANIZATION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI'I, RELATING TO
> MEETINGS
>
> (amend Rule No. 2, Meetings, paragraph 1, relating to Regular
> Meetings)
>
> From Councilmember K. Angel Pilago, dated June 1, 2006, transmitting
> the above resolution to provide that the County Council shall hold
> regular meetings in East Hawai'i on odd-numbered months (Jan., Mar.,
> May, Jul., Sept. and Nov.) and, shall hold regular meeting in West
> Hawai'i on even-numbered months (Feb., Apr., Jun., Aug., Oct. and Dec.).
>
> The Charter Amendment failed. It needed 6 votes (2/3) and got only 5.
> Reso. 402-06 needs 5 votes to pass.
>
> TESTIFY IN PERSON
> or via videoconference from Kona on
> Thursday, July 6 @ 9:00 AM - Finance Committee Public Testimony
>
> Written testimony is good, but not always read.
> SEND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - WHT
> wht@aloha.net
>
>
> Written testimony should be sent ASAP
> Addressed to Virginia Isbell, Chair Finance Committee 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
>
> MAHALO FOR YOUR INTEREST AND
> PARTICIPATION IN COUNTY GOVERNMENT
> Angel, Maile and Karen
>
>
>
> K. Angel Pilago
> Councilman, District 8
> 327-3642

We need letters to Higa. Tell him what you think!

Hi Susan,
I have sent a copy of this letter to whcc list. Please would you consider sending a copy to your mailing lists requesting letters to Higa ? This is an instance where many of those who signed up at the first meeting and disappeared can be very helpful -they may be poor committee members, but good letter writers. A large number of letters in a short time will be instructive- to see what effect if any. Either way, it is a worthwhile exercise. We can see if this route helps. If in the council elections, members encourage contributions to candidates getting good marks, and vetted opponents of those (e.g. Holschuh) who get poor marks, then all those 'from the first meeting only' are very valuable members of a group wanting to fix this broken government. regards,Marshall
----- Original Message -----
From: "blann"
To:
Cc: ; ; ; "Bob Jacobson" ; ; ;
Sent: Thursday, June 29, 2006 10:21 AM
Subject: Two planning departments

> Dear Councilchair Higa and members of County Council,
> Hawaii County is the nations largest county, and unlike even many
> smaller counties, is probably unique in allowing no political
> subdivision to provide a government sensitive and responsive to local
> needs. With a government which is seated over 100 miles from many
> citizens, many services are effectively denied. Whatever the
> subjective truth may be, a huge number of citizens see our county
> government as a colonial government; Hilo is the colonizer, extracting
> taxes from the rest of the county, giving an absolute minimum return
> in order to support the citizens of Hilo. You may find this an
> offensive description, but it is the perception of many.
> When you object to allowing any local voice in governing aspects
> affecting a given region for fear of loss of political power(" it is
> the first step in political division of the county"), let me suggest
> that you may be aiding that process. My thesis is that there is a
> growing sentiment for dividing the county government for it has
> demonstrably failed in its responsibilities to govern fairly and
> efficiently (if you would like specific examples, I would be pleased
> to provide these).
> I see two choices: county government will start to give more local
> control of vital functions such as planning, as so wisely put forward
> by Councilman Pilago, and indeed other functions in the future, or the
> cry for creation of additional counties on this island will grow until
> they are heeded. It is not a question of if, but when. It will not be
> inside ten years, but once the process is started it will continue.
> Bottle up the abilities of other parts of the island to have a voice
> in their destiny as your comments would seem to imply, and you aid the
> forces for county division. Start to make vital departments such as
> planning, public works, parks and recreation local in nature, and the
> call for division of the county is divided and defused.
> We are seeing a start of citizens stating that they have no
> confidence in County Council to represent the people in the current
> parkland preservation petition being circulated. This action shows
> that citizens have given up on council, and however unwieldy, will
> pass legislation by going to the ballot box. How sad a legacy for the
> county council! Once the people see that this is possible, and know
> how to organize this process, it may become much more common.
> Then the issues which council is refusing to let the people vote on,
> may be put on the ballot by petition. What a sad message this sends
> for the confidence of the people in their council.
> I urge council to give the citizens the opportunity to vote on
> critical issues, rather than exercising the abuse of power by council
> to stop this. Otherwise, council will encourage the forces wishing for
> one or more counties independent of Hilo. Sometimes our actions have
> an effect opposite to that which is desired. At this point, I urge
> that Mr. Pilago's proposal be put on the ballot so that the people may
> decide. Is County Council in fear of the wishes of the people?
> Respectfully, Marshall Blann

Higa worried splitting the island in two is coming.

Aloha Susan:
At the very least you will be able to leave the island knowing that you
made a difference. I read the article in the WHT about Mr. Pilago's
attempt to let the voters decide if a west side planning commission was something that is needed. He seemed to have touched a nerve with Mr. Higa considering some of the Chairman's rude comments to the reporter. Mr. Higa asked if two planning commissions was a prelude to splitting the island into two counties. Your actions and hard work have paid off in that a seed has been planted in the mind of the leader of the dark side.
Congratulations,
Peter Hain

East and West Planning Commissions?

http://aaronstene.blogspot.com/2006/06/separate-east-and-west-planning.html
Separate East and West Planning Commissions That is what councilman Pilago is proposing according to this WHT article. But council chairman Stacey Higa refuses to allow it to be waived to a full council vote,so it can make it on to the November ballot. He claims it will be a precursor to splitting the island into two counties.I disagree, having all the final planning decisions made in Hilo is one of the reasons why we have such a infrastructure mess in West Hawaii.

Mr. Higa, I'm getting very weary of your continued finger pointing and lack of leadership.It seems you blame everyone else, besides yourself.
I'm certainly not going to vote for you for mayor, if you decide to run in 2008. Your leadership style is not bringing this island together, but instead splitting this island apart.
--
Aaron Stene
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Any volunteers that want to continue with Citizen's for Better Government?

Hi Susan,
Just a note to know how you are proceeding: do you have a set of officers to carry on for you when you leave?
Do you have a group looking at the issues I raised on county council evaluation/ influence, etc? Sorry, But I was off island during your meetings; I gather that there was some division of lalors set up, but don't recall what it was. Best regards,Marshall


Aloha Marshall and Citizens for Better Government Group,
I am putting this out to the group to see if there is any interest in continuing with the group. We would need a leader to take over the mailing list and the blog.
Please let me have some feed back.
Thanks, Susan
http://www.hawaiicountyissues.blogspot.com
mcgeachy@hawaii.rr.com

Save our Lands 2% needs your help

PLEASE FORWARD TO BIG ISLAND RESIDENTS
Hello Everyone: We need only 800 more signatures AND we have to be very vigilant as to HOW people sign.
Most of the signatures were invalidated for:1- lack of proper date- Necessary: date, month and YEAR2- Proper street address= number. Street name. and ST. RD. CT. HGWY3- SIGNATURE AND PRINTED NAME in the right boxes4- Everything else (Birthdate and social security number) is optional.Notaries and Turn in times: July 14th- Waimea-Starbucks, Kona-Jamba Juice KTA, Na'alehu- Community CEnter, HILO- law office of Marty Berger, Pahoa- Aloha Cafe and Honoka'a- Tex Drive In. After talking to many of you I think we agree that this issue is about our quality of life on the Big Island. Preserving our treasured lands means preserving our quality of life. Please hand out information sheets to educate people so they are informed voters for November. I've attached information sheets and Petitions. Caring for the aina is caring for the people. Working together we can make a difference. Are there events we should get volunteers out to get signatures? Are you willing to help gather for a few hours? THANK you SO much for your HELP, SUPPORT and PATIENCE with this process. Debbie989-3222-- Debbie Hecht, Coordinator,
Save Our Lands Citizen's CommitteeP.O. Box 4148Kailua-Kona, HI 96745(808) 989-3222

Leaving Hawaii

Aloha Friends,

We have decided to sell our home and relocate to the mainland. Our decision was based on our last child leaving for the mainland for college, my mother and father are in their 80’s and we have not even seen our new grand daughter.
After 18years this has been a very hard decision to make.

The house is now up for sale. www.mcgeachysells.com and we hope to move in the fall or winter.

Thank you for understanding and we look forward to a new adventure.

Susan and Tom McGeachy

Who wants to carry on?

Aloha Susan,

I’m sad to hear that you’ve decided to sell your house and move away. As the strongest single voice for the division of the island into two counties, your departure will likely set that decade-long proposition back several years. Now, with elections looming and a continuing dysfunctional county council, those of us who still think that something can and must be done need to organize. We need to discuss candidates – from all districts – with the hope of endorsing, supporting, and holding responsible those who understand that the current “Side-vs-Side” mentality is not just foolish but harmful. Whatever the ultimate merits of a West Hawaii County, the next three elections (at least) will be done with the current districting. If the council does not begin giving the infrastructure of the West side due consideration, the entire island’s economy _will_ suffer greatly (as will quality of life, affordability, and safety). People in Hamakua have to deal with Waimea. People commute from Puna to the West Side. People from Hilo use the Saddle Road to get to construction jobs on the West side: the West side’s infrastructure is an _island-wide_ issue.

What will become of the mailing list now? Will you pass it on (import it into the Yahoo group, for instance) for those of us who continue to believe in the possibility of change?

Aloha and, although I am sad that you leave discouraged, mahalo for all the work you have done,
Larry O’Brien

2% has reached 8,000 signatures.

WOW.
The Save Our Land Committee just announced that they turned in 5,100 additional signatures yesterday to the County Clerk, pushing the total number now submitted to over EIGHT THOUSAND SIGNATURES!

This is wonderful news for the broad, grassroots effort to protect precious lands on Hawai'i Island. However, the Committee doesn't yet know how many of those signatures will actually qualify toward the magic number of 4,864 verified voter signatures necessary to put the 2% Land Fund on the ballot in November. It could very well come down to just a handful of signatures either way.

You have ONE FINAL CHANCE to help ensure that the effort succeeds.

Because the deadline fell on a Saturday (today), the County will accept a final batch of signatures this Monday, June 19th. PLEASE spend just an hour or two more this weekend to gather whatever signatures you can and turn in the completed, notarized forms to the following pick-up points on Monday for the Pony Express to Hilo:Remember to include the address where you registered to vote- and St.Ave or Ct. and to enter 2006 in the date box
1. KONA: 11am at Jamba Juice in the Kona Coast shopping center ( by KTA)2. WAIMEA: 1pm at Starbucks in the Parker Ranch Shopping Center3. HILO: 8:30am to 1:30pm at the Law Offices of Martin Berger, 1051 Iolani St. Map at http://www.martinaberger.com/contact_directions.html Any Questions? Call Debbie Hecht 989-3222 or hecht.deb@gmail.com Please go to www.legacylands.org for more information.

EVERY single signature makes a huge difference and the Land Fund effort could very well come down to qualifying by just a few dozen names. If you have a petition that you forgot to turn in or can gather a few more signatures, PLEASE bring them to these final drop-off points on Monday. It could make all the difference in the world.THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR HELP AND SUPPORT TO SAVE TREASURED LANDS ON THE BIG ISLAND! TOGETHER WE WILL DO THIS! -- -- Debbie HechtP.O. Box 4148Kailua-Kona, HI 96745(808) 989-3222

Questionable Testimony by Stacy Higa-Chair.

http://aaronstene.blogspot.com/2006/06/questionable-testimony.html
Questionable Testimony....
It seems there is a creditability problem in regards to the 17 people who wrote testimony in opposition to having more meetings in Kona :
From the WHT article
"However, responses from those whose names appear on letters opposed to the measure weren't so definite. Of the eight people who could be contacted, some refused to speak about the issue, one hung up after being told the reason for the phone call, two people didn't recall signing such a letter and one said he actually supports council members meeting as often in Kona as in Hilo."
It seems to me something fishy has been cooked up with this testimony.Even though the people for more meetings in Kona beat the people against 56-17, it is unsettling that some, if not all, the testimony against might've been contrived.
On top of that, I believe the comments by one of the people who wrote testimony against having more meetings in Kona, is out of line.
"The trouble with what's going on is that new people are coming and wanting to change things," he said. "If things were so good for them where they came from -- 'Oh, in Oklahoma we did it this way.' 'Oh, in Arizona we did it this way'-- why are they here then, if it was so good?"
Mr. Johansen, you really don't get it. On the mainland there is cities and municipalities that is the difference versus here. In Oklahoma, and Arizona government is closer to the people, instead of being 100 miles away. We are just seeking fairness frankly. It is the lesser of two evils, would you rather split into two counties ?
--
Aaron Stene
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
http://aaronstene.blogspot.com/

Time for a referendum?

I think this move was perfect as is Higa's, once again insulting comment. Are you ready for a referendum? I am. With every slap it will make it easier to get the signatures required.
Susan

The Kona Tea Party!

06/16/2006

Ladies and Gentlemen:

Our County of Hawaii Government sucks and we need to dump tea into the water at the harbor again like we did on December 16, 1773. It is time we just overthrow these jerks. If we just all told them to kiss off and started our own County Government without their permission what could they do other than agree? They can't kill us all and they can't put all of us in jail.

It is the same way as the Territory of Hawaii was established on July 7,1898 by the Newlands Resolution with Sanford B. Dole as Governor. After the overthrow of Queen Lydia Lili'uokalani on January 17, 1893 we had the Provisional Government of Hawaii run by Lorrin A. Thurston. Then we established by Constitutional Convention in Honolulu the Republic of Hawaii on July 4, 1894 with Sanford B. Dole as President.

Our United States of America Government was very busy in 1898. We established Hawaii as a Territory. Fought in Cuba, Puerto Rico, Spain and the Philippines. We didn't get to keep Cuba or Spain. We did get to keep the Philippines until July 4, 1946. We of course still have Puerto Rico and Hawaii.

I guess what I am saying is how can it be against the law for us to take over our side of the Island of Hawaii since this type of coquest is an acceptable practice in the United States of America. It is how we became One Nation Under God even though some of our acts have been un-Godly.

Sincerely,

Richard B. Leander, Jr., C.P.A.

Brian Schatz responds

Thanks for this email.

I enjoyed it, and I think you are right. I am working hard to correct the inequity, with your Representative Josh Green, who believes that Kona should receive its fair share of resources.

Aloha,
Brian Schatz

The Hilo boys caught in Lies!

Another good one!! Are the bands In Kona playing these songs... They should be!

LET THERE BE SINGING IN THE STREETS!

I was one of the people that sent and e-mail with my vote for the bill. ( I would be out of state at hearing time)
I was one of the people as was JC, receiving a telephone call verifying my council input via e-mail

It appears that someone has been sending letter and forging other signatures to validate Higa's position ... and they got caught!!

Further, this forgery of signatures would bring into question other anti Kona votes in the past.
I will be sending a letter to the OIP and league of Woman Voters. ....

There were a huge percentage of e-votes for the bill and the forged meager votes should not have been sufficient. so tell me again why the bill was shot down.. Oh yes, "Were Screwed Again"!!!

You can read the article on the WHT front page.

contact me for the music to "Screwed"

Aloha, all.

While there may be valid reasons to hold more County Council meetings in Hilo than Kona, despite West Hawaii providing 70% of the county’s revenue, reasons like “the seats in Kona are too uncomfortable” and “it’s too inconvenient for the people in Hilo” are NOT acceptable ones.

Councilman Pilago’s Bill 268 and his subsequent efforts have been shot down. He’s fighting an uphill battle on our behalf and needs our support. Maybe the attached song demonstrating how we in West Hawaii have indeed been “Screwed Again” will help by at bringing more attention to the subject.

Hope you enjoy it. Feel free to pass it on. Mahalo.

Jerry Schneyer

Does anyone know? Concurrency Law!

Hi Susan. Is anything happening with getting a referendum item on the ballot in Nov? Is referendum even the right description. I had heard that one person could have an item put on the ballot this Fall. Is that a referendum? Is anyone else working on something like this? I would imagine that this might be the most effective thing to do. Like having people vote on a "Concurrency Law" so that the County would have to stop all building until they build the roads and infracstructure to support all the new homes.
I bet the developers would pressure the County into building more roads if the concurrency law was enacted. I doubt anyone else would be opposed to it because everyone can see the results of unchecked growth on this island.
What are your thoughts on this strategy?
Peter Wu

It's Logical to have the meetings in Hilo? Why!

http://aaronstene.blogspot.com/2006/06/due-to-logic-no-kona-council-meetings.html
Due To Logic, No Kona Council Meetings
That is Council Chairman's reasoning why there shouldn't be more council meetings held in Kona. Since Hilo is center of government and the primary location for county departments, thus having more meetings in Kona is not logical.
From the WHT article:
However, Higa said the issue is not one of fairness but logic because most major county offices are in Hilo.
"Whether the people in Kona like it or not, whether it is fair or not, Hilo is the center of our government on this island," said Higa.
He claimed that Pilago's resolutions are politically driven and compared the request to asking the state Legislature or Congress to hold meetings in Kona.
"In all due respect, Mr. Pilago needs to deal with the issues in his district," said Higa. He insists holding meetings in Kona would not in any way persuade council members' votes.
"I honestly think council members are informed about their districts,"
said Higa. "Our decisions are based on the information we all have. We make decisions based on the merits of projects."
Mr. Higa, you really do not get it frankly. As it stands, your statements are going to add more fuel to the fire to split this county apart. Yes the seat of government on this island is in Hilo.But by having more council meetings in Kona,it will bring county government closer to the people in West Hawaii. It will help bridge the deep divide splitting this island apart.
There is a lot of people very angry at the county in West Hawaii.They see a lack of effort on the part of the county to mitigate the horrible traffic here in West Hawaii.On top of that, county is more than willing to bend over backwards for developers over the citizenry of West Hawaii. Worse yet, it seems the more we complain, the more we are made out to look like the bad guys.
Your analogy paralleling more council meetings in Kona to having the legislature or congress meet in Kona is way off base.Yes both of those entities wield more power than the Hawaii County Council. But neither have the control over re-zoning of land and or can build roads.
In short, Mr. Higa if you really have aspirations to become Mayor in 2008, you really need to look in the mirror. As your insensitive comments are not going to win many votes in West Hawaii.
--
Aaron Stene
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
http://aaronstene.blogspot.com/

Final days for 2% for open space.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP AND SUPPORT TO SAVE TREASURED LANDS ON THE BIG ISLANDTime to turn in your petitions: **********LAST DAY******LAST DAY********LAST DAY************LAST DAYTomorrow, Thursday June 15th from 5:00 to 6:30 at the following locations. Get petitions notarized and hand them in:2% for Open Space- Save our Land1. Pahoa- . Aloha Outpost Cafe by Malama Market in Pahoa. 15-2660 Pahoa Village Road.2. Waimea- Starbucks 3. Honoka'a- Tex Drive In4. Kona- Jamba Juice in the Kona Coast shopping center ( by KTA)5. Na'alehu- Community Center6. Hilo: 8:30am to 2pm at Law Office of Martin Berger, 1051 Iolani St. Map at http://www.martinaberger.com/contact_directions.htmlQuestions call Debbie Hecht 989-3222 or hecht.deb@gmail.com

Hawaii County spending out of control?

http://aaronstene.blogspot.com/2006/06/new-county-annex-planned-for-hilo.html
A New County Annex Planned For Hilo
Thats according this WHT article . It would house the Hawaii County Council and Hawaii County Clerk (and possibly more departments). A number of locations are being looked at. Among them, the old Firestone location in the Aupuni Center (formerly Kaiko'o Mall),in the Aupuni Center parking lot, and above Bayside Chevron. The latter is in a tsunami inundation zone. Thus mitigating measures would have to be taken to alleviate that.
It frankly does not make any sense to me that Hawaii County spend between $ 13 and $ 23 million dollars on this new building. Especially when there is pressing infrastructure issues in West Hawaii. I strongly believe that the money could be better used to mitigate the traffic nightmare in West Hawaii.
--
Aaron Stene
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
http://aaronstene.blogspot.com/

Memorial Picnic

Aloha friends
The May 27th Memorial Picnic was absolutely perfect and we would like to
thank all those that stopped by and the many that truly contributed to its
perfection - special thanks to Sandy and Rod Crisp. While Rod produced 96
crosses, hand-made, sanded, painted and placed on Sat morning with help from
Bill Miller, Sandy's hard work and charisma attracted Laurel Circle to play
guitar and sing and Marri Parkinson to make the most beautiful hand
calligraphed silk and bamboo scrolls memorializing Iraqi children and adults
who have died. Angelica Stevens produced a photo and information card for
each service members'cross. Mary Collier and her Celtic group provided the
most angelic music for a good portion of the afternoon. Mary Jo Lake spent
hours contacting churches in our area asking for their participation. And
of course, our fearless leader Donna Peebles arranged everything, and truly
was the one that made it all happen. For those of you who missed it, I can
only say that it was beyond touching to see 96 crosses decorated with leis,
and watch as perfect strangers lined up to take a turn at reading the names
- this somehow made it really sink in. I will post a photo on
www.alohacommittee.com very soon.
WE ARE WALKING AGAIN - WED. JUNE 14 - Meet at 4:30 on Nani Kailua below
Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy. by the PINES. Walk starts at 4:45.
Its FLAG DAY - so BRING A FLAG, lets show that we are Patriots for Peace! Bring a sign or
carry one of ours.
If you need INSPIRATION to get out there remember Cindy Sheehan,
If you want courage to step out and stand for what you believe, get that from Lt.
Ehren Watada. I encourage you to read the interview with this brave and
mature young leader at http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/060706A.shtml
PLEASE JOIN US on WED AND ENCOURAGE A FRIEND TO COME ALONG! ON LAST MONTH's WALK WE WERE
47, HOW MANY THIS TIME??
AND, BY THE WAY, ITS QUITE A BIT OF FUN... I WAS TRULY ENERGIZED BY ALL THE
HONKING AND SUPPORT WE RECEIVED.
Many thanks to all of you who truly care about bringing All Loved Ones Home Alive NOW.
Peace be with you......The A.L.O.H.A. Committee
_________________________________________________________________

Only 46 signatures to Go.

PLEASE FORWARD THIS TO FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CO-WORKERS ON THE BIG ISLANDHello Everyone-
We collected 1600 signatures on Tuesday and we turned in 3,200 to the County 2 weeks ago. We have only 4,800 signatures and we need 4,846 viable signatures. We need at least 2,000 more signatures to provide a margin of error in the next 2 weeks. PLEASE keep collecting. Some of you are real angels and have done an exceptional job. THANK YOU! Please download the attached petition and keep it with you at work and in the community. The best places to collect if you have a few hours are WalMart and grocery stores. I went with a friend and we collected 150 signatures in 3 hours!! Events that attract lots of people are great too. PLEASE keep going. There will be King Kamehameha Days in Waimea soon, Farmer's Markets are great places, kids camps and sporting events.The last day to mail petitions will be June 12th. The absolute last day to turn in Petitions will be June 15th, and we are working to schedulehave Notary Events at the same places. The next two weeks will mean our success or failure in this drive. It's up to us to send a STRONG message to our elected officials that Big Island residents want our treasured lands preserved. Working together we can make a difference.A BIG Mahalo to everyone for all of your help and support!!

Debbie Hecht, Save Our Lands Citizens CommitteeP.O. Box 4148Kailua-Kona, HI 96745(808) 989-3222"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." --Margaret Mead

Council Agenda for council meeting June 5th

FYI
> IMPORTANT ITEMS ON JUNE 5TH COUNCIL AGENDA That affect Kona
> (note: Council Meeting will be held on Monday, June 5th & Committees
> on Tuesday, June 6th) 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
>
>
>
>
> June 5, 2006 - Council Meeting
> BILLS FOR FIRST READING
> Public Testimony @ 9:30 AM
>
> BILL 224
> HILUHILU - PALAMANUI
> Council voted 7 - 1 to approve at 5/16/06 Planning Committee hearing
> 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 to Bill 224 will be discussed Monday, June 5th at Council
> Meeting Councilmembers Pilago, Hoffmann and Jacobson have requested a
> legal opinion of Corp. Counsel to address liability issues with
> regards to Makalei Road not being up to standards to be used a
> connector.
> Corporation Counsel opinion regarding Makalei Road as a Connector Road
> will be taken up at Executive Session.
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> BILLS FOR SECOND AND FINAL READING
> Public Testimony @ 10:30 AM
>
> Bill 235
> Establishes the Operating Budget for FY July 1, 2006 - June 30, 2007 (
> $3326,2228,673 )
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> -------------
> Bill 247
> D. Smith, applicant to rezone 22 acres from Ag. 20 to Family Ag. 3
> acres in Kaloko Pilago, Hoffmann, Jacobson and Isbell voted NO at 1st
> reading at May 17,
> 2006 Council Meeting
> * 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
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
> -
>
> Bill 246
> Amendments to the Subdivision Code
> This was postponed from last meeting - Council will be reviewing a new
> draft of the Bill
> * 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.
>
> FULL LIST OF COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE ITEMS FOLLOW:
>
> MONDAY, JUNE 5, 2006 COUNCIL MEETING
>
> ORDER OF RESOLUTIONS
>
> 1. Res. 317-06: Feasibility Study - Realign Bayfront Hwy and
> Restore Bayfront Beach.
>
> 2. Res. 362-06: Place Charter Amendment on ballot - re:
> terms of boards and commissions
>
> 3. Res. 363-06: New lease for Prosecuting Attorney's Kona
> Office - adds 1,450 sq ft
>
> 4. Res. 364-06: Lease of property (old VA bldg.) to relocate
> some offices presently in County Bldg
>
> 5. Res. 365-06: Lease of property (old Longs bldg.) to
> relocate some offices presently in County Bldg
>
> 6. Res. 370-06: $30,000 Safarik's contingency for Puna Makai
> Alternate Route Study
>
> 7. Res. 377-06: Determines Real Property Tax Rates for FY
> July 1, 2006, to June 30, 2007.
>
> BILLS FOR ORDINANCES (FIRST READING)
>
> 8. Bill 224: REZ Ag (A-3a)& Open to Project
> District (PD) Hiluhilu Dev, LLC, Applicant
>
> 9. Bill 225: Planning Dir. Initiated Modifications of the
> Conditions of Ordinance No. 93 45,
>
> 10.Bill 277: $36,840 for Disabled Persons Parking Placard
> Program.
>
> 11.Bill 283 (Draft 2): Allowance to pay for operational
> expense after a disaster or emergency
> Bill 292 (Draft 2): Budget Stabilization Fund. to use
> during times of financial hardships
>
> 12.Bill 286: $30,000 for Puna Makai Alternate Route Study
> - requires 2/3 Vote
>
> 13.Bill 288: Mileage Reimbursement Rates for Volunteer
> Police and Fire Personnel
>
> 14.Bill 293: $2,000,000 from State Grants for construct,
> maint & repair of County roads
>
> 15.Bill 294: $175,000 to Greetings Program. to enhance
> experience of island visitors.
>
> ORDER OF THE DAY (SECOND OR FINAL READING)
> 16.Bill 235 (Draft 3): $326,228,673 Operating Budget for FY
> July 1, 2006, to June 30, 2007
>
> 17.Bill 236 (Draft 3): $290,000 increase to proposed
> $135,112,000 CIP Budget (deletes W. Hi compost facility)
>
> 18.Bill 237: REZ Ag (A-20a) to Fam Ag (FA-3a) Hamakua -
> Chris Raymond, Applicant
>
> 19.Bill 246 (Draft 2): Changes to the Subdivision Code.
> Comm. 762.57: From Pete Hoffman, transmitting Bill 246, Draft 3
> Bill 246 (Draft 3): Changes to the Subdivision Code.
> Comm. 762.58: - 762.65
>
> 20.Bill 247 (Draft 4): REZ Ag (A-20a) to Fam Ag (FA-3a) at
> Kaloko - Dennis D. Smith, Applicant
>
> 21.Bill 260 (Draft 3): Salary Ordinance {D. 3 allows each
> council member to request a 5% step raise for their staff)
>
> 22.Bill 261 (Draft 2): Charter Amendment Relating to
> Impeachment of Elected Officers. - Higa
>
> 23.Bill 266: REZ Neigh Comm (CN-10) to Sing-Fam Res
> (RS-10) Sonny Ventures Applicant
>
> 24.Bill 267 (Draft 2): Planning Director Initiated Relating
> to Sewer Pump Station
>
> 25.Bill 269: Adopts "Hawai'i Fire Department" as formal
> name of the Dept.- 2/3 vote required
>
> 26.Bill 271: $110,000 to install streetlights in Dist 2 &
> 8, and for Roads-in-Limbo District 8
>
> 27.Bill 272: $60,000 to Waipio Park Ranger Pilot Program.
>
> 28.Bill 273: Charter Amendment Relating to Petitions &
> Referendum, Removal of Elected Officers Isbell
>
> 29.Bill 278: $31,116 from Higa Contingency for Dist. 4
> Park Improvements
>
> 30.Bill 279: $22,950 from Holschuh Contingency for
> playground equipment Lauphoehoe Park
>
> 31.Bill 280: $70,000 from Arakaki Contingency for Waiakea
> Uka Park Comfort Station
>
> 32.Bill 284: $50,000 from Safarik Contingency for Dist. 5
> Park Improvements
>
> 33.Bill 285: $51,000 from Safarik Contingency for Dist. 5
> for Public Works Improvements
>
> 34.Bill 287: $4,350 added to $34,350 for statewide 3-day
> training program (Sexual Assault)
>
> REPORTS:
> 35.FINANCIAL REPORT: Monthly Financial Status Report for the Month Ended
> April 30, 2006.
>
> REFERRALS FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION
> 36.Comm. 514.2: PARRISH, ET. AL. V. THE HONORABLE RONALD
> IBARRA
>
> 37.Comm. 918: RELATING TO HILUHILU DEVELOPMENT / MAKALEI
> DRIVE
>
> 38.Comm. 919 HOWARD ROBERT HOFELLICH V. STATE
>
> 39.Comm. 920 WENDELL TANGARO V. JOSEPH BOTELHO
>
> Committee Meetings ~ Tuesday, June 6, 2006
>
> 9:00 AM PLANNING
>
> 1. Comm. 891 Appointment of Alvin Rho to the Planning
> Commission
>
> 2. Comm. 912 Appointment of 11 members to the Puna Comm.
> Dev. Plan Steering Committee
>
> 3. Comm. 883 (Bill 281) REZ Single Fam. Res (RS-10) to Neigh. Comm
> (CN-20) Hilo - App. Kathy Tripp
>
>
> 10:00 AM HUMAN SERVICES & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
>
> 4. Comm. 921 Presentation on Alzheimer's by Ms. Janet Eli
> of the Alzheimer's Assoc.
>
>
> 11:00 AM PLANNING
>
> 5. Comm. 909 Report of the Public Access, Open Space,
> Natural Resources Preservation Comm.
>
> 6. Comm. 910 (Res. 378-06) Donation of Dug Out Benches for Pu'u Nui
> Park
>
> 7. Comm. 916 (Res. 379-06) Place Charter Amendment re: changing the
> name of Civil Service Dept. on Ballot
>
> FOR DETAILED AGENDA GO TO:
> http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
>
>
> OTHER MEETINGS THAT MAY BE OF INTEREST TO YOU:
> Presentation of the Proposed West Hawaii Civic Center Tuesday June 6,
> 2006 6:00 - 8:00 pm King Kamehameha Hotel, Ballroom #1 and Wednesday
> June 7, 2006 6:00 - 8:00 pm Konawaena Elementary School Cafeteria
>
> Dept. of Environmental Management Proposed Sewer Improvements for
> areas makai of Mamalahoa Hwy. within Kohanaiki, Kaloko, Honokohau, and
> portion of Kealakehe Lands Tuesday June 6, 2006 6:00 - 8:00 pm
> Kealakehe High School
>
>
>
> MAHALO FOR YOUR INTEREST AND PARTICIPATION IN COUNTY GOVERNMENT Angel,
> Maile and Karen K. Angel Pilago Councilman, District 8
> 327-3642
>
> Maile David
> Legislative Assistant
> 327-3638
> Karen Eoff
> Council Aide
> 327-3642

Palamanui project

Aloha,
I strongly urge the council to mandate that HiluHilu use an alternative mauka connector road.Hawaii County Department of Public Works even admitted this in this article in West Hawaii Today http://tinyurl.com/od8je
"Makalei Drive was not designed or approved as a (connector) street,"
Kuba wrote. "It has 18 percent grades, a 50-foot-wide right-of-way and individual lots taking direct access from it. We also have some doubts about the feasibility of designing an intersection at the immediate end of Makalei Drive, which presently dead ends on a 15.7 percent grade."
Kuba noted that the Traffic Impact Analysis Report for the proposed Palamanui project assumes that access to Mamalahoa Highway will be via a new connector road to the north, bypassing Makalei Estates. He also notes that the developer's project summary states that the proposed bypass is being "actively pursued."
Yes I'm aware of the plethora of issues of using Lynch Investments property as an alternative route. But frankly there needs to be a resolution to this mauka connector road issue before the county approves Palamanui. It would be unconscionable the council allows HiluHilu to use Makalei Drive as the mauka connector road.
Best Regards,
Aaron Stene