This is interesting and makes a lot of sense. >>>> Earthquake Safety Tip -
This is totally different than what we >>>> were>>>> told:>>>> Please read this and pass the info along to your family members; it>>>> could save their lives someday!>>>>>>>>
EXTRACT FROM DOUG COPP'S ARTICLE ON THE: "TRIANGLE OF LIFE">>>>>>>> My name is Doug Copp. I am the Rescue Chief and Disaster Manager of>>>> the American Rescue Team International (ARTI), the world's most >>>> experienced rescue team.
The information in this article will save >>>> lives in an earthquake.>>>>>>>>
I have crawled inside 875 collapsed buildings, worked with rescue >>>> teams from 60 countries, founded rescue teams in several countries,>>>> and I am a member of many rescue teams from many countries.>>>>>>>>>>>> I was the United Nations expert in Disaster Mitigation for twoyears.>>>> I have worked at every major disaster in the world since 1985, >>>> except for simultaneous disasters. The first building I ever >>>> crawled inside of was a school in Mexico City during the 1985 >>>> earthquake. Every child was under its desk. Every child was crushed>>>> to the thickness of their bones. They could have survived by lying >>>> down next to their desks in the aisles. It was obscene, unnecessary>>>> and I wondered why the children were not in the aisles.>>>> I didn't at the time know that the children were told to hide under>>>> something.>>>>>>>> Simply stated, when buildings collapse, the weight of the ceilings >>>> falling upon the objects or furniture inside crushes these objects,>>>> leaving a space or void next to them. This space is what I call the>>>> "triangle of life".>>>> The>>>> larger the object, the stronger, the less it will compact. The less>>>> the object compacts, the larger the void, the greater the >>>> probability that the person who is using this void for safety will >>>> not be injured. The next time you watch collapsed buildings, on >>>> television, count the "triangles" you see formed. They are >>>> everywhere. It is the most common shape, you will see, in a >>>> collapsed building.>>>>>>>>
TEN TIPS FOR EARTHQUAKE SAFETY>>>>>>>>
1) Most everyone who simply "ducks and covers" WHEN BUILDINGS >>>> COLLAPSE are crushed to death. People who get under objects, like >>>> desks or cars, are crushed.>>>>>>>>
2) Cats, dogs and babies often naturally curl up in the fetal >>>> position. You should too in an earthquake. It is a natural >>>> safety/survival instinct. You can survive in a smaller void. Get >>>> next to an object, next to a sofa, next to a large bulky object >>>> that will compress slightly but leave a void next to it.>>>>>>>>
3) Wooden buildings are the safest type of construction to be in >>>> during an earthquake. Wood is flexible and moves with the force of >>>> the earthquake. If the wooden building does collapse, large >>>> survival voids are created.>>>> Also,>>>> the wooden building has less concentrated, crushing weight. Brick >>>> buildings will break into individual bricks. Bricks will cause many>>>> injuries but less squashed bodies than concrete slabs.>>>>>>>>
4) If you are in bed during the night and an earthquake occurs, >>>> simply roll off the bed. A safe void will exist around the bed. >>>> Hotels can achieve a>>>>>>>> much greater survival rate in earthquakes, simply by posting a sign>>>> on The back of the door of every room telling occupants to lie down>>>> on the floor, next to the bottom of the bed during an earthquake.>>>>>>>>
5) If an earthquake happens and you cannot easily escape by getting>>>> out the door or window, then lie down and curl up in the fetal >>>> position next to a sofa, or large chair.>>>>>>>>
6) Most everyone who gets under a doorway when buildings collapse >>>> is killed. How? If you stand under a doorway and the doorjamb falls>>>> forward or backward you will be crushed by the ceiling above. If >>>> the door jam falls sideways you will be cut in half by the doorway.>>>> In either case, you will be killed!>>>>>>>>
7) Never go to the stairs. The stairs have a different "moment of >>>> frequency" (they swing separately from the main part of thebuilding).>>>> The stairs and>>>> remainder of the building continuously bump into each other until >>>> structural failure of the stairs takes place. The people who get on>>>> stairs before they fail are chopped up by the stair treads - >>>> horribly mutilated. Even if the building doesn't collapse, stay >>>> away from the stairs. The stairs are a likely part of the building >>>> to be damaged. Even if the stairs are not collapsed by the >>>> earthquake, they may collapse later when overloaded by fleeing >>>> people. They should always be checked for safety, even when the >>>> rest of the building is not damaged.>>>>>>>>
8) Get Near the Outer Walls Of Buildings Or Outside Of Them If >>>> Possible>>>> - It>>>> is much better to be near the outside of the building rather than >>>> the interior. The farther inside you are from the outside perimeter>>>> of the building the greater the probability that your escape route >>>> will be blocked.>>>>>>>>
9) People inside of their vehicles are crushed when the road above >>>> falls in an earthquake and crushes their vehicles; which is exactly>>>> what happened>>>>>>>> with the slabs between the decks of the Nimitz Freeway. The victims>>>> of the San Francisco earthquake all stayed inside of theirvehicles.>>>> They were all killed. They could have easily survived by getting >>>> out and>>>>>>>> sitting or lying next to their vehicles. Everyone killed would have>>>> survived if they had been able to get out of their cars and sit or >>>> lie next to them.>>>> All the crushed cars had voids 3 feet high next to them, except for>>>> the cars that had columns fall directly across them.>>>>>>>>
10) I discovered, while crawling inside of collapsed newspaper >>>> offices and other offices with a lot of paper, that paper does notcompact.>>>> Large voids>>>> are found surrounding stacks of paper.>>>>
Spread the word and save someone's life... The Entire world is >>>> experiencing natural calamities so be prepared!>>>>>>>>
"We are but angels with one wing, it takes two to fly" In 1996 we >>>> made a film, which proved my survival methodology to be correct. >>>> The Turkish Federal Government, City of Istanbul , University of >>>> Istanbul Case Productions and ARTI cooperated to film this >>>> practical, scientific test. We collapsed a school and a home with >>>> 20 mannequins inside. Ten mannequins did "duck and cover," and ten >>>> mannequins I used in my "triangle of life">>>> survival method. After the simulated earthquake collapse we >>>> crawled through the rubble and entered the building to film and >>>> document the results.>>>> The>>>> film, in which I practiced my survival techniques under directly >>>> observable, scientific conditions, relevant to>>>>>>>> building collapse, showed there would have been zero percent >>>> survival for those doing duck and cover.>>>>>>>> There would likely have been 100 percent survivability for people >>>> using my method of the "triangle of life." This film has been seen >>>> by millions of>>>>>>>> viewers on television in Turkey and the rest of Europe, and it was >>>> seen in the USA , Canada and Latin America on the TV program RealTV.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Earthquake on the Big Island of Hawaii
Aloha All,
We drove around yesterday. Palani Road –our road to town was covered with rocks. Back hoes have been clearing the debris all day. Now the road is open in both directions.
The Hulihee Palace is totally cracked. Most of the rock walls that were dry stacked crumbled. The schools and hospital took a beating. The hospital is still closed due to falling debris. Yesterday the teachers went to school but they held the kids home so they could asses the damages and clean up.
We lost one rock wall and lots of glasses and pottery. The after shocks keep coming. We just had another one a few minutes ago.
Oahu still has parts without power.
Most of the damage was on the North part of the island. In Hawi the road cracked open and part of another road/bridge sunk in. There are about 70 bridges that still need to be inspected. Kawaihae Harbor is closed. The docks aren’t safe; the water line is damaged. The barges are being sent to Hilo for docking.
One guy was out surfing and felt a big bump in the water. He thought a shark or turtle had bumped him. He looked back at the shore and all the cars were bouncing up and down.
Another friend has large glass sliding doors and they shock right off the track and fell on to the ground. Lucky they didn’t break.
There was a horse show in Kamuela Sunday. People were unloading and warming up their horses. Before the quake the horses started bucking and ran through a crowd of people. Then the quake started and the trailers were rolling over and more horses became wild and broke free. They were running across the highway totally out of control.
The ironman race is this Saturday. Talk about another thing to compound their nerves. They are riding along the queen’s highway next to boulders larger then a car. The road to Hawi (turn around point) is partially gone in one lane. They have determined that the race will go on and the road will be ok for bikes to cross.
The mountain top above Kealakekua Bay (where they buried all of the royalty) broke free and fell into the bay. They said it was a huge explosion and all of the houses rocked.
The hotels in the Waikoloa area really rocked. The Mauna Kea hotel had huge slabs of concrete fall from a few stories up. Everyone is so thankful it happened on a Sunday. A school day would have been really bad. Most people were in bed when it hit at 7:07am.
The people here know about hurricanes and storms so they know to be prepared. Rice and toilet paper and you are good to go. The tourists on the other hand don’t have a clue what is happening and many raced to the airport to get out. (Bad idea since they were all closed down). You can either roll with it or freak out.
Being from California originally I thought I was used to the earth moving. But nothing compares to this magnitude and it just kept going and going. It felt like a full minute of rocking and glass breaking. It was probably only 20 seconds but it was like riding a wild bronco.
My hats off to Hawaii County for getting on top of everything right away. The power for the Big Island was back up in 6 hours. They kept warning us on the radio not to open the refrigerator and too conserve water. Be prepared to hunker down until they can restart the power.
The heavy rains hitting the island chain has not helped things. Last night we had about 3 inches of rain. Slamming rain and thunder most of the night.
At least my garden is watered and my car has been washed.
Take care and keep in touch,
Signed, “Shake and Bake”
Sooze
Earthquake Update from Angel Pilago
EARTHQUAKE UPDATE - STATUS REPORT
I was in Hilo at the time of the earthquake and left right away to return to Kona. I reached Kona @ 10:30 am. I was able to check on and reassure neighbors, family and friends. After surveying the Kona District and helping to restore broken water lines, I drove back to Hilo to prepare for Council meeting scheduled for 9:00 am Monday, October 16, 2006. My staff and I will be available to anyone needing assistance or numbers to call for help.
TO REPORT PROBLEMS - STRUCTURAL DAMAGE - BROKEN WATER LINES ETC.
CALL:
CIVIL DEFENSE
935-0031
IF AFTER HOURS
CALL
POLICE
935-3311
CIVIL DEFENSE UPDATES AND ROAD CLOSURE REPORTS
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/cd/message.htm
Police Liaison to Civil Defense - Major Sam Thomas
* FEMA IS IN KONA WORKING OUT OF THE POLICE STATION
* FEMA IS INSPECTING DAMAGES AND PROVIDING APPLICATIONS FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE.
* KONA HOSPITAL REMEAINS CLOSED AND PATIENTS ARE BEING TRANSPORTED TO HILO MEDICAL & KEAUHOU SHERATON
Fire Chief Darryl Oliviera
* FIRE DEPT. HELPING TO MOVE PATIENTS FROM KONA HOSPITAL TO SHERATON KEAUHOU AND HILO MEDICAL CENTER.
* AMBULANCES ARE TAKING PATIENTS TO KONA AIRPORT WHERE THEY ARE FLOWN BY C130 AIRPLANE TO HILO.
* FIREMEN IN HILO PICKING PATIENTS UP AND TAKING TO HILO MEDICAL CENTER.
* FIREMEN ALSO IN THE FIELD ASSISTING FEMA AND PUBLIC WORKS ENGINEERS TO ASSESS DAMAGES TO RESIDENCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE.
· FIREMEN USING HELICOPTERS TO CHECK OUT DAMAGES AROUND THE ISLAND.
* CAPT. COOK MONUMENT AREA UNSTABLE -
Mayor Kim's Message to Council
* MAYOR TAKING THE LEAD FOR ISLAND EMERGENCY RESPONSE
* FEMA, US ARMY, STATE AND COUNTY HIGHWAYS, DMD TRUCKING, WORKING WITH PUBLIC WORKS AND CIVIL DEFENSE TO OPEN ROADS AND ALTERNATE ROUTES.
* SENATORS INOUYE AND AKAKA ARE HERE TO MAKE SURE FINANCIAL AIDE IS AVAILABLE TO STATE OF HAWAI'I.
Mahalo to Scott Brooks, General Manager, Noe, and all the folks at Sheraton Keauhou Resort for taking in patients that had to be evacuated from Kona Hospital!
Mahalo to KAPA, KSSK, and KWXX Radio stations for giving reports all day on Sunday!
Mahalo to all the hotels and churches for their kokua, being available to people that are in need!
And, mahalo to all of you for extending the spirit of aloha.
I encourage everyone to work together and help each other out, especially at times like this.
K. Angel Pilago
Councilman, District 8
North Kona
327-3642
I was in Hilo at the time of the earthquake and left right away to return to Kona. I reached Kona @ 10:30 am. I was able to check on and reassure neighbors, family and friends. After surveying the Kona District and helping to restore broken water lines, I drove back to Hilo to prepare for Council meeting scheduled for 9:00 am Monday, October 16, 2006. My staff and I will be available to anyone needing assistance or numbers to call for help.
TO REPORT PROBLEMS - STRUCTURAL DAMAGE - BROKEN WATER LINES ETC.
CALL:
CIVIL DEFENSE
935-0031
IF AFTER HOURS
CALL
POLICE
935-3311
CIVIL DEFENSE UPDATES AND ROAD CLOSURE REPORTS
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/cd/message.htm
Police Liaison to Civil Defense - Major Sam Thomas
* FEMA IS IN KONA WORKING OUT OF THE POLICE STATION
* FEMA IS INSPECTING DAMAGES AND PROVIDING APPLICATIONS FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE.
* KONA HOSPITAL REMEAINS CLOSED AND PATIENTS ARE BEING TRANSPORTED TO HILO MEDICAL & KEAUHOU SHERATON
Fire Chief Darryl Oliviera
* FIRE DEPT. HELPING TO MOVE PATIENTS FROM KONA HOSPITAL TO SHERATON KEAUHOU AND HILO MEDICAL CENTER.
* AMBULANCES ARE TAKING PATIENTS TO KONA AIRPORT WHERE THEY ARE FLOWN BY C130 AIRPLANE TO HILO.
* FIREMEN IN HILO PICKING PATIENTS UP AND TAKING TO HILO MEDICAL CENTER.
* FIREMEN ALSO IN THE FIELD ASSISTING FEMA AND PUBLIC WORKS ENGINEERS TO ASSESS DAMAGES TO RESIDENCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE.
· FIREMEN USING HELICOPTERS TO CHECK OUT DAMAGES AROUND THE ISLAND.
* CAPT. COOK MONUMENT AREA UNSTABLE -
Mayor Kim's Message to Council
* MAYOR TAKING THE LEAD FOR ISLAND EMERGENCY RESPONSE
* FEMA, US ARMY, STATE AND COUNTY HIGHWAYS, DMD TRUCKING, WORKING WITH PUBLIC WORKS AND CIVIL DEFENSE TO OPEN ROADS AND ALTERNATE ROUTES.
* SENATORS INOUYE AND AKAKA ARE HERE TO MAKE SURE FINANCIAL AIDE IS AVAILABLE TO STATE OF HAWAI'I.
Mahalo to Scott Brooks, General Manager, Noe, and all the folks at Sheraton Keauhou Resort for taking in patients that had to be evacuated from Kona Hospital!
Mahalo to KAPA, KSSK, and KWXX Radio stations for giving reports all day on Sunday!
Mahalo to all the hotels and churches for their kokua, being available to people that are in need!
And, mahalo to all of you for extending the spirit of aloha.
I encourage everyone to work together and help each other out, especially at times like this.
K. Angel Pilago
Councilman, District 8
North Kona
327-3642
Friday, October 13, 2006
Council and Committee Meetings coming up
Council and Committee
Meetings Will Be Held In The
NEW
Council Chambers
333 Kilauea Ave, Hilo Hawaii
Ben Franklin Bldg. Second Floor
Videoconferencing Available From
Kona And Waimea Council Offices
COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE HELD ON MONDAY
COMMITTEE MEETINGS WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY
EXCEPT
PLANNING COMMITTEE WHICH WILL BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY
COUNCIL MEETING
9:00 AM - MONDAY, OCTOBER 16TH
9:00 AM STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON RESOLUTIONS
10:00 AM STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON BILLS FOR 1ST READING
10:45 AM STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON BILLS FOR 2ND READING
IMPORTANT ITEMS ON THE COUNCIL AGENDA:
ü Res. 449-06: - Pedestrian Easement in front of Kona Inn
ACCEPTS THE DECLARATION OF PUBLIC ACCESS PEDESTRIAN EASEMENTS FROM KAILUA KONA VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT GROUP, LLC, TAX MAP KEY (3)7-5-07:21 (PORTION), TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. 199042, TO THE COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I. {Assures that pedestrian public access is provided within the property to and along designated shoreline access areas.}
ü Res. 451-06 – To acquire Kawa’a Bay
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF TAX MAP KEY PARCELS 9-5-017:007, 9-5-017:005, 9-5-016:025, AND 9-5-016:006, COMPRISING APPROXIMATELY 785.161 ACRES OF LAND, COLLECTIVELY KNOWN AS KAWA‘A AND KAWA‘A BAY, IN THE DISTRICT OF KA‘Ū, PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 05-166
From Councilmember Bob Jacobson, dated September 5, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The Kawa‘a/Kawa‘a Bay area has been prioritized by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission as number one, with an 88 percent criteria score, in its report to the Mayor dated April 5, 2006 and concurred by the Mayor in Communication No. 909, dated May 18, 2006. Kawa‘a/Kawa‘a Bay was designated by the Commission as Category A: “Lands or property entitlements with high public interest, imminent needs for acquisition, and largest benefit to the general public.”
ü Res. 452-06 – To acquire Punalu’u Beach Park
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF TAX MAP KEY PARCELS 9-6-001:006, 9-6-001:011, 9-6-001:012, AND 9-6-001:003, COMPRISING APPROXIMATELY 10.195 ACRES OF LAND, ALSO KNOWN AS PUNALU‘U BEACH PARK AND ADJACENT LANDS, IN THE DISTRICT OF KA‘Ū, PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 05-166
From Councilmember Bob Jacobson, dated September 5, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The Punalu‘u Beach Park and adjacent lands area has been prioritized by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission as number five in its report to the Mayor dated April 5, 2006 with a 70 percent criteria score, and elevated to number two by the Mayor in Communication No. 909, dated May 18, 2006, citing the fact that the County park, including the pavilion, is not owned by the County government; and the importance of acquiring permanent ownership for the planning of long-term improvements and infrastructure. The Commission designated Punalu‘u Beach Park, Category A: “Lands or property entitlements with high public interest, imminent needs for acquisition, and largest benefit to the general public.”
ü RES. 474-06 – Re-negotiate Lease in Kuhio Mall for Elections Div.
AUTHORIZES THE PAYMENT OF FUNDS OF A LATER FISCAL YEAR AND MORE THAN ONE FISCAL YEAR FOR A MULTI-YEAR LEASE (1 year) of Real Property for the Office of the County Clerk-Elections Division. {Lease with HO Retail Properties I, L.P., would be for 5,000 square feet of office space located at 111 East Puainako Street, and the approximate cost per month, including general excise tax, continues to be $8,594.}
ü RES. 488-06 – Requests funds for U.H.West Hawai‘i Campus
SUPPORTS THE REQUEST OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI‘I FOR RELEASE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND FUNDS FOR THE PLANNING, DESIGN, AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE WEST HAWAI‘I CAMPUS CENTER DEVELOPMENTS. {Urges Governor Linda Lingle to release funds appropriated in the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2006 for the West Hawai‘i Campus Center Developments.}
ü Bill 328
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983
(2005 EDITION, AS AMENDED) BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER RELATING TO CONCURRENCY (adds a new chapter for the establishment of a concurrency management system and the preparation of a public facilities improvement plan to fund and maintain county-wide facilities and services)
From Virginia Isbell, Council Vice-Chair, dated August 23, 2006, transmitting the above bill.
ü Bill 329
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983
(2005 EDITION, AS AMENDED) BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER RELATING TO ADEQUATE PUBLIC FACILITIES (adds a new chapter for the identification of infrastructure and services necessary to support new development and the establishment of a policy as to when and how these improvements and services will be constructed and maintained)
From Virginia Isbell, Council Vice-Chair, dated August 23, 2006, transmitting the above bill.
· Ask that these Bills be referred to the Planning Director for administrative review and go through a Public Hearing Process to assure proper checks and balances.
ü Comm. 998.12 – Requests reconsideration of Pete Hoffmann’s Concurrency Bills
REQUESTS RECONSIDERATION OF BILL 318 (RELATING TO CONDITIONS ON CHANGE OF ZONE) AND BILL 319 (RELATING TO LARGE SCALE DEVELOPMENTS)
From Council Vice Chair Virginia Isbell, dated September 20, 2006, pursuant to Rule No. 17 of the Rules of Procedure of the Council of the County of Hawai‘i, requests the reconsideration of Bills 318 and 319.
(BILL 318)
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 25, ARTICLE 2, DIVISION 4, SECTION 25-2-44, HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION) RELATING TO CONDITIONS ON CHANGE OF ZONE.
· Bill introduced by Pete Hoffmann to address Concurrency · Adds requirements to the existing provisions within the Zoning Code to mitigate water supply and transportation impacts concurrent with proposed change of zone applications
· Change of zone applications should address how much public infrastructure is challenged by recent or anticipated growth in that area.
The requirements are proposed to be made concurrent with any change of zone in order to manage growth and coordinate delivery of government services.
(BILL 319)
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 23, ARTICLE 2, DIVISION 1, SECTION 23-13, HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION) RELATING TO LARGE SCALE DEVELOPMENTS.
· Companion to Bill 318 (above) · Adds requirements to existing provisions of the Subdivision Code to mitigate water supply and transportation impacts concurrent with development of large scale subdivisions and condominium property regimes.
· Large scale developments proposed in a particular area should be assessed considering a number of factors, including how much public infrastructure is challenged by recent or anticipated growth in that area.
The requirements are proposed to be made concurrent with development of large scale subdivisions or condominium property regimes in order to manage growth and coordinate delivery of government services.
To see Council Index – Open attachment below:
<>
For complete agenda, click on link below:
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
Written testimony should be addressed to Chairman Higa and Council Members
Email to
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
Fax to
961-8912
--------------------------------------------------------------------
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 17TH
9:00 AM FINANCE
1:15 PM ENVIRONMENT
1:45 PM HUMAN SERVICES
ü Comm. 1026 (Res. 432.06)- Require EIS for Super Ferry
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE COMMENCEMENT OF SERVICE OF THE HAWAI‘I SUPERFERRY AT KAWAIHAE HARBOR UNTIL ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS ARE ADDRESSED (requests commencement of operations be postponed pending preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement and construction of necessary improvements to adequately accommodate current harbor users and the Hawai‘i Superferry)
From Councilmember Pete Hoffmann, dated August 17, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The key points in the resolution are 1) Kawaihae Harbor is the only commercial harbor on the west side; 2) Kawaihae Harbor has inadequate infrastructure to accommodate existing users; 3) there is no master plan to deal with aging harbor facilities is proposed by the State Department of Transportation; 4) Hawai‘i Superferry (HSF) operations will result in displacement of existing space occupied by Young Brothers and may result in reduction of service and possible discontinuance of its less than full container load service; 5) the State Department of Transportation does not plan an Environmental Impact Statement as requested by Hawai‘i County Council; 6) HSF may contribute to the spread of invasive species; 7) injury or death to whales has been raised by Pacific Whale Foundation; 8) the landing site may be inaccessible half the year due to high surf; and 9) visitors may overburden limited recreational resources.
Testimony for Human Services Committee should be addressed to
Chairman Holschuh and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
2:45 PM PUBLIC SAFETY PARKS AND REC
ü Comm. 1106 (Bill 347) – Naming of Wai’aha Beach Park
AN ORDINANCE NAMING A COUNTY RECREATIONAL FACILITY
(TMK: (3) 7-5-018:020) PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 15, HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION) (designates the name "Waiaha Bay Beach Park" for the open area park in Kailua-Kona
Testimony for Public Safety Parks and Recreation Committee should be addressed to
Chairman Bob Jacobson and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18TH
9:30 AM PLANNING
ü Comm. 1090 (Res. 465-06) – Protect Pu’u in Waimea
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE PLANNING DIRECTOR TO INITIATE A ZONING CODE AMENDMENT FOR AN ORDINANCE CHANGING THE DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION FROM UNZONED AND AGRICULTURAL (A-1a) TO AGRICULTURAL (A-500a) AT WAIMEA, SOUTH KOHALA, HAWAI‘I COVERED BY TAX MAP KEY 6-5-001:020, IN ORDER TO PRESERVE THE WAIMEA PU‘U AS CULTURAL AND OPEN SPACE RESOURCES AND TO PRESERVE THEIR AGRICULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL USES (preserves the natural beauty, agricultural and recreational uses and cultural resources of this area and protect this important open space resource for the people of the County)
Testimony for Planning Committee should be addressed to
Chairman K. Angel Pilago and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
For Committee Index Click on Attachment
<>
For Complete Committee Agenda Click on Link
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
Call our office for any questions.
Thank you for your participation!
Angel, Maile and Karen
Councilman K. Angel Pilago
Council District 8, North Kona
808-327-3642
kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
Meetings Will Be Held In The
NEW
Council Chambers
333 Kilauea Ave, Hilo Hawaii
Ben Franklin Bldg. Second Floor
Videoconferencing Available From
Kona And Waimea Council Offices
COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE HELD ON MONDAY
COMMITTEE MEETINGS WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY
EXCEPT
PLANNING COMMITTEE WHICH WILL BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY
COUNCIL MEETING
9:00 AM - MONDAY, OCTOBER 16TH
9:00 AM STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON RESOLUTIONS
10:00 AM STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON BILLS FOR 1ST READING
10:45 AM STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON BILLS FOR 2ND READING
IMPORTANT ITEMS ON THE COUNCIL AGENDA:
ü Res. 449-06: - Pedestrian Easement in front of Kona Inn
ACCEPTS THE DECLARATION OF PUBLIC ACCESS PEDESTRIAN EASEMENTS FROM KAILUA KONA VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT GROUP, LLC, TAX MAP KEY (3)7-5-07:21 (PORTION), TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. 199042, TO THE COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I. {Assures that pedestrian public access is provided within the property to and along designated shoreline access areas.}
ü Res. 451-06 – To acquire Kawa’a Bay
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF TAX MAP KEY PARCELS 9-5-017:007, 9-5-017:005, 9-5-016:025, AND 9-5-016:006, COMPRISING APPROXIMATELY 785.161 ACRES OF LAND, COLLECTIVELY KNOWN AS KAWA‘A AND KAWA‘A BAY, IN THE DISTRICT OF KA‘Ū, PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 05-166
From Councilmember Bob Jacobson, dated September 5, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The Kawa‘a/Kawa‘a Bay area has been prioritized by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission as number one, with an 88 percent criteria score, in its report to the Mayor dated April 5, 2006 and concurred by the Mayor in Communication No. 909, dated May 18, 2006. Kawa‘a/Kawa‘a Bay was designated by the Commission as Category A: “Lands or property entitlements with high public interest, imminent needs for acquisition, and largest benefit to the general public.”
ü Res. 452-06 – To acquire Punalu’u Beach Park
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF TAX MAP KEY PARCELS 9-6-001:006, 9-6-001:011, 9-6-001:012, AND 9-6-001:003, COMPRISING APPROXIMATELY 10.195 ACRES OF LAND, ALSO KNOWN AS PUNALU‘U BEACH PARK AND ADJACENT LANDS, IN THE DISTRICT OF KA‘Ū, PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 05-166
From Councilmember Bob Jacobson, dated September 5, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The Punalu‘u Beach Park and adjacent lands area has been prioritized by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission as number five in its report to the Mayor dated April 5, 2006 with a 70 percent criteria score, and elevated to number two by the Mayor in Communication No. 909, dated May 18, 2006, citing the fact that the County park, including the pavilion, is not owned by the County government; and the importance of acquiring permanent ownership for the planning of long-term improvements and infrastructure. The Commission designated Punalu‘u Beach Park, Category A: “Lands or property entitlements with high public interest, imminent needs for acquisition, and largest benefit to the general public.”
ü RES. 474-06 – Re-negotiate Lease in Kuhio Mall for Elections Div.
AUTHORIZES THE PAYMENT OF FUNDS OF A LATER FISCAL YEAR AND MORE THAN ONE FISCAL YEAR FOR A MULTI-YEAR LEASE (1 year) of Real Property for the Office of the County Clerk-Elections Division. {Lease with HO Retail Properties I, L.P., would be for 5,000 square feet of office space located at 111 East Puainako Street, and the approximate cost per month, including general excise tax, continues to be $8,594.}
ü RES. 488-06 – Requests funds for U.H.West Hawai‘i Campus
SUPPORTS THE REQUEST OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI‘I FOR RELEASE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND FUNDS FOR THE PLANNING, DESIGN, AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE WEST HAWAI‘I CAMPUS CENTER DEVELOPMENTS. {Urges Governor Linda Lingle to release funds appropriated in the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2006 for the West Hawai‘i Campus Center Developments.}
ü Bill 328
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983
(2005 EDITION, AS AMENDED) BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER RELATING TO CONCURRENCY (adds a new chapter for the establishment of a concurrency management system and the preparation of a public facilities improvement plan to fund and maintain county-wide facilities and services)
From Virginia Isbell, Council Vice-Chair, dated August 23, 2006, transmitting the above bill.
ü Bill 329
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983
(2005 EDITION, AS AMENDED) BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER RELATING TO ADEQUATE PUBLIC FACILITIES (adds a new chapter for the identification of infrastructure and services necessary to support new development and the establishment of a policy as to when and how these improvements and services will be constructed and maintained)
From Virginia Isbell, Council Vice-Chair, dated August 23, 2006, transmitting the above bill.
· Ask that these Bills be referred to the Planning Director for administrative review and go through a Public Hearing Process to assure proper checks and balances.
ü Comm. 998.12 – Requests reconsideration of Pete Hoffmann’s Concurrency Bills
REQUESTS RECONSIDERATION OF BILL 318 (RELATING TO CONDITIONS ON CHANGE OF ZONE) AND BILL 319 (RELATING TO LARGE SCALE DEVELOPMENTS)
From Council Vice Chair Virginia Isbell, dated September 20, 2006, pursuant to Rule No. 17 of the Rules of Procedure of the Council of the County of Hawai‘i, requests the reconsideration of Bills 318 and 319.
(BILL 318)
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 25, ARTICLE 2, DIVISION 4, SECTION 25-2-44, HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION) RELATING TO CONDITIONS ON CHANGE OF ZONE.
· Bill introduced by Pete Hoffmann to address Concurrency · Adds requirements to the existing provisions within the Zoning Code to mitigate water supply and transportation impacts concurrent with proposed change of zone applications
· Change of zone applications should address how much public infrastructure is challenged by recent or anticipated growth in that area.
The requirements are proposed to be made concurrent with any change of zone in order to manage growth and coordinate delivery of government services.
(BILL 319)
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 23, ARTICLE 2, DIVISION 1, SECTION 23-13, HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION) RELATING TO LARGE SCALE DEVELOPMENTS.
· Companion to Bill 318 (above) · Adds requirements to existing provisions of the Subdivision Code to mitigate water supply and transportation impacts concurrent with development of large scale subdivisions and condominium property regimes.
· Large scale developments proposed in a particular area should be assessed considering a number of factors, including how much public infrastructure is challenged by recent or anticipated growth in that area.
The requirements are proposed to be made concurrent with development of large scale subdivisions or condominium property regimes in order to manage growth and coordinate delivery of government services.
To see Council Index – Open attachment below:
<
For complete agenda, click on link below:
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
Written testimony should be addressed to Chairman Higa and Council Members
Email to
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
Fax to
961-8912
--------------------------------------------------------------------
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 17TH
9:00 AM FINANCE
1:15 PM ENVIRONMENT
1:45 PM HUMAN SERVICES
ü Comm. 1026 (Res. 432.06)- Require EIS for Super Ferry
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE COMMENCEMENT OF SERVICE OF THE HAWAI‘I SUPERFERRY AT KAWAIHAE HARBOR UNTIL ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS ARE ADDRESSED (requests commencement of operations be postponed pending preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement and construction of necessary improvements to adequately accommodate current harbor users and the Hawai‘i Superferry)
From Councilmember Pete Hoffmann, dated August 17, 2006, transmitting the above resolution. The key points in the resolution are 1) Kawaihae Harbor is the only commercial harbor on the west side; 2) Kawaihae Harbor has inadequate infrastructure to accommodate existing users; 3) there is no master plan to deal with aging harbor facilities is proposed by the State Department of Transportation; 4) Hawai‘i Superferry (HSF) operations will result in displacement of existing space occupied by Young Brothers and may result in reduction of service and possible discontinuance of its less than full container load service; 5) the State Department of Transportation does not plan an Environmental Impact Statement as requested by Hawai‘i County Council; 6) HSF may contribute to the spread of invasive species; 7) injury or death to whales has been raised by Pacific Whale Foundation; 8) the landing site may be inaccessible half the year due to high surf; and 9) visitors may overburden limited recreational resources.
Testimony for Human Services Committee should be addressed to
Chairman Holschuh and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
2:45 PM PUBLIC SAFETY PARKS AND REC
ü Comm. 1106 (Bill 347) – Naming of Wai’aha Beach Park
AN ORDINANCE NAMING A COUNTY RECREATIONAL FACILITY
(TMK: (3) 7-5-018:020) PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 15, HAWAI‘I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION) (designates the name "Waiaha Bay Beach Park" for the open area park in Kailua-Kona
Testimony for Public Safety Parks and Recreation Committee should be addressed to
Chairman Bob Jacobson and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18TH
9:30 AM PLANNING
ü Comm. 1090 (Res. 465-06) – Protect Pu’u in Waimea
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE PLANNING DIRECTOR TO INITIATE A ZONING CODE AMENDMENT FOR AN ORDINANCE CHANGING THE DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION FROM UNZONED AND AGRICULTURAL (A-1a) TO AGRICULTURAL (A-500a) AT WAIMEA, SOUTH KOHALA, HAWAI‘I COVERED BY TAX MAP KEY 6-5-001:020, IN ORDER TO PRESERVE THE WAIMEA PU‘U AS CULTURAL AND OPEN SPACE RESOURCES AND TO PRESERVE THEIR AGRICULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL USES (preserves the natural beauty, agricultural and recreational uses and cultural resources of this area and protect this important open space resource for the people of the County)
Testimony for Planning Committee should be addressed to
Chairman K. Angel Pilago and Committee Members
And sent to:
counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
For Committee Index Click on Attachment
<
For Complete Committee Agenda Click on Link
http://www.co.hawaii.hi.us/council/agendas_and_actions.htm
Call our office for any questions.
Thank you for your participation!
Angel, Maile and Karen
Councilman K. Angel Pilago
Council District 8, North Kona
808-327-3642
kapilago@co.hawaii.hi.us
HELP STOP UNFAIR ELECTION PRACTICES
HELP STOP UNFAIR ELECTION PRACTICES IN HAWAII COUNTY
>YOUR REACTION TO THIS IS IMPORTANT_ PLEASE FORWARD TO YOUR MAILING LISTS!
>
>Urgent action is needed to mitigate elections practices which could
>guarantee Hilo the mayor's office and council control by manipulation
>of voter registration and walk-in voting. Please read the appropriate
>sections below.
>
>I. Synopsis: the problem outlined (if you know this, skip to II.)
>
>II. Proposed action by county council for 16 Oct. meeting in Hilo and
>possible consequences for elections
>
>III. Suggested actions citizens might take
>
>I. The problem
> Around 4 months ago, the Council quietly authorized the Elections
>Office to lease 5,000 sq. ft. of space at Kuhio Mall for $8600/month.
>With 12 full time employees, salaries
>+overheads likely are around
>$ 1 million/annum, plus the 103,000 for the lease. Why? Quoting from
>the authorizing resolution,
> "Whereas, the temporary move of the Election Division to Prince Kuhio
>Plaza could increase voter registration and absentee voter turnout due
>to its high visibility, convenient public location and a high volume of
>foot traffic;..."
> Indeed it is estimated that one of each four Hilo residents passes
>through the mall each day. The location is a corner store, with a 50
>foot row of display windows on each of 2 main mall aisles, festooned
>with flags and 'WIKI-WIKI VOTER REGISTRATION' signs. It looks
>professionally done. It blew me away when I actually saw it, and others
>who have seen it have had a similar reaction.
> Voter registration is a fine thing, but when we spend 1 million/annum
>of tax funds to register voters in Hilo, and have no program anywhere
>else in the county, the election playing field is not fair. But it gets
>still worse!
>During the walk in polling, the Mall location was open 48 hours each
>week, including 8 hours on Saturdays; NO OTHER WALK IN POLL WAS OPEN
>SATURDAYS. Some were open only 25 hours/ week, closed not only
>Saturdays, but lunch hours as well- the best times for working people
>to vote. Remember that only 43% of voters islanwide voted in the last
>primary- so a concerted effort might potentially double the vote in a
>targeted area.The mall must have a few hundred acres of free parking;
>our location usually has none available- and no foot traffic.
> What are the actual numbers? For this past primary, there were 5
>walk-in (i.e. 'absentee' polling places)
>
>Location Votes cast
>Pahala 159
>Kohala 357
>Waimea 975
>Kona 1506
>Kuhio Mall 5192
>
>II Proposed council action for Oct 16 meeting in Hilo
>
> We can see from the numbers above and from analyses of the complete
>returns, that Hilo, with illegally low citizen number districts ( as
>determined by the Hawaii Supreme Court in CERG vs. Hawaii County) gets
>a huge boost in voter turnout from this huge, expensive recruitment
>effort, with no comparable effort anywhere else in the county. There is
>now a resolution for vote on Oct. 16 to EXTEND the Kuhio lease for
>another year (after which it would likely be extended again) to further
>increase the voting power of Hilo. Clearly this makes a mockery of fair
>elections, but let us consider the consequences.
>
>1) There will likely be enough votes cast in Hilo to elect the next
>mayor (rumored to be Mr. Higa). The
> next mayor will appoint the reapportionment and charter
>commissions. So we may expect again to
> have Gerrymandered, illegally small Hilo districts, only the
>charter amendments Hilo wishes.
>
>2) either from the charter commission, or earlier from the council, my
>guess is that a 'one island ' charter
> amendment will be issued (don't trust labels )- to return to an
>earlier plan of e.g. 6 council district
> seats and 3 'at large' seats to show that we are a single county.
>Karl Rove would be proud! They will have the
> electoral vote to pass this. And when we get our ballots, and are
>asked to vote for 3 of 16 candidates
> 'at large', we will discover that Hilo has the votes to elect all
>3, since the 3 highest totals will win. And so,
> this lovely lease at Kuhio Mall could ensure more decades of Hilo
>colonial rule, even after an honest vote
> might produce a neutral and fair county government.
>
>The upcoming vote, being pushed through before a new council can be
>seated (with huge boost from Ms. Isbell), may be seen to have
>importance to West Hawaii beyond just being another appropriations
>bill; it is a stealth bill to ensure future political control for Hilo.
>
>III. What can we do?
>
> If we are not content with being ruled as a colony of Hilo, my best
>guess is that we should first immediately email our council members
>protesting this action. I shall separately forward two letters
>suggesting choices to reduce the disparity. If you care, please show up
>at the W.Hi. mayor's office to testify on 16 Oct., or email testimony
>to counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us.
> If the council does not take strong corrective action- our usual
>'more of the same'- I urge that you send an email to the state ethics
>commission, ethics@hawaiiethics.org ,with a copy to
>elections@aloha.net , and send an email
>to Gov. Lingle, http://www.hawaii.gov/gov/contact/email .
> Copy your ethics commission testimony to joshuaboothgreen@yahoo.com
>and senwhalen@capitol.hawaii.gov .
>And please send this to those on your mailing list who might respond. I
>have a feeling of facing down a steamroller, but we must at least try.
>Many thanks for your help on this- it is for all of us-regards,Marshall
>
>p.s. I shall also forward drafts of a letter to the ethics commission.
>And most importantly- the general election vote result in D7 will
>decide if the new council will be organized by Hilo with Mr. Higa as
>chair (should Ms. Isbell win) or in a neutral mode (should Ms. Ford
>win).
>YOUR REACTION TO THIS IS IMPORTANT_ PLEASE FORWARD TO YOUR MAILING LISTS!
>
>Urgent action is needed to mitigate elections practices which could
>guarantee Hilo the mayor's office and council control by manipulation
>of voter registration and walk-in voting. Please read the appropriate
>sections below.
>
>I. Synopsis: the problem outlined (if you know this, skip to II.)
>
>II. Proposed action by county council for 16 Oct. meeting in Hilo and
>possible consequences for elections
>
>III. Suggested actions citizens might take
>
>I. The problem
> Around 4 months ago, the Council quietly authorized the Elections
>Office to lease 5,000 sq. ft. of space at Kuhio Mall for $8600/month.
>With 12 full time employees, salaries
>+overheads likely are around
>$ 1 million/annum, plus the 103,000 for the lease. Why? Quoting from
>the authorizing resolution,
> "Whereas, the temporary move of the Election Division to Prince Kuhio
>Plaza could increase voter registration and absentee voter turnout due
>to its high visibility, convenient public location and a high volume of
>foot traffic;..."
> Indeed it is estimated that one of each four Hilo residents passes
>through the mall each day. The location is a corner store, with a 50
>foot row of display windows on each of 2 main mall aisles, festooned
>with flags and 'WIKI-WIKI VOTER REGISTRATION' signs. It looks
>professionally done. It blew me away when I actually saw it, and others
>who have seen it have had a similar reaction.
> Voter registration is a fine thing, but when we spend 1 million/annum
>of tax funds to register voters in Hilo, and have no program anywhere
>else in the county, the election playing field is not fair. But it gets
>still worse!
>During the walk in polling, the Mall location was open 48 hours each
>week, including 8 hours on Saturdays; NO OTHER WALK IN POLL WAS OPEN
>SATURDAYS. Some were open only 25 hours/ week, closed not only
>Saturdays, but lunch hours as well- the best times for working people
>to vote. Remember that only 43% of voters islanwide voted in the last
>primary- so a concerted effort might potentially double the vote in a
>targeted area.The mall must have a few hundred acres of free parking;
>our location usually has none available- and no foot traffic.
> What are the actual numbers? For this past primary, there were 5
>walk-in (i.e. 'absentee' polling places)
>
>Location Votes cast
>Pahala 159
>Kohala 357
>Waimea 975
>Kona 1506
>Kuhio Mall 5192
>
>II Proposed council action for Oct 16 meeting in Hilo
>
> We can see from the numbers above and from analyses of the complete
>returns, that Hilo, with illegally low citizen number districts ( as
>determined by the Hawaii Supreme Court in CERG vs. Hawaii County) gets
>a huge boost in voter turnout from this huge, expensive recruitment
>effort, with no comparable effort anywhere else in the county. There is
>now a resolution for vote on Oct. 16 to EXTEND the Kuhio lease for
>another year (after which it would likely be extended again) to further
>increase the voting power of Hilo. Clearly this makes a mockery of fair
>elections, but let us consider the consequences.
>
>1) There will likely be enough votes cast in Hilo to elect the next
>mayor (rumored to be Mr. Higa). The
> next mayor will appoint the reapportionment and charter
>commissions. So we may expect again to
> have Gerrymandered, illegally small Hilo districts, only the
>charter amendments Hilo wishes.
>
>2) either from the charter commission, or earlier from the council, my
>guess is that a 'one island ' charter
> amendment will be issued (don't trust labels )- to return to an
>earlier plan of e.g. 6 council district
> seats and 3 'at large' seats to show that we are a single county.
>Karl Rove would be proud! They will have the
> electoral vote to pass this. And when we get our ballots, and are
>asked to vote for 3 of 16 candidates
> 'at large', we will discover that Hilo has the votes to elect all
>3, since the 3 highest totals will win. And so,
> this lovely lease at Kuhio Mall could ensure more decades of Hilo
>colonial rule, even after an honest vote
> might produce a neutral and fair county government.
>
>The upcoming vote, being pushed through before a new council can be
>seated (with huge boost from Ms. Isbell), may be seen to have
>importance to West Hawaii beyond just being another appropriations
>bill; it is a stealth bill to ensure future political control for Hilo.
>
>III. What can we do?
>
> If we are not content with being ruled as a colony of Hilo, my best
>guess is that we should first immediately email our council members
>protesting this action. I shall separately forward two letters
>suggesting choices to reduce the disparity. If you care, please show up
>at the W.Hi. mayor's office to testify on 16 Oct., or email testimony
>to counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us.
> If the council does not take strong corrective action- our usual
>'more of the same'- I urge that you send an email to the state ethics
>commission, ethics@hawaiiethics.org ,with a copy to
>elections@aloha.net , and send an email
>to Gov. Lingle, http://www.hawaii.gov/gov/contact/email .
> Copy your ethics commission testimony to joshuaboothgreen@yahoo.com
>and senwhalen@capitol.hawaii.gov .
>And please send this to those on your mailing list who might respond. I
>have a feeling of facing down a steamroller, but we must at least try.
>Many thanks for your help on this- it is for all of us-regards,Marshall
>
>p.s. I shall also forward drafts of a letter to the ethics commission.
>And most importantly- the general election vote result in D7 will
>decide if the new council will be organized by Hilo with Mr. Higa as
>chair (should Ms. Isbell win) or in a neutral mode (should Ms. Ford
>win).
Thursday, October 05, 2006
2% Land Update
Aloha all 2% Land Fund supporters!
On November 7th- Vote FOR the 2% Land Fund! Only 5 weeks to go…Here's several things you can do to help make sure Hawai'i lands are protected:1. Understand the Issue! You may have heard that after gathering almost 10,000 signatures that the BALLOT QUESTION the County has decided to place on the ballot is different than what Save Our Lands Citizen's Committee had submitted. This is true, but READ MORE AFTER #9TO FULLY UNDERSTAND THIS ISSUE. 2. We are 100% behind the 2% solution, and want everyone on the Island—including YOU—to vote FOR the 2% Land Fund. PLEASE encourage your friends and family to vote FOR the 2% Land Fund!!3. Register to Vote! Hundreds of people who signed our petition are not recognized as registered voters by the County. Are you one of them? October 9th is the deadline for voters to register in order to vote in the election. Call the County Elections office at 961-8277 to confirm that you are registered correctly, and if not go to http://www.hawaii.gov/elections/voters/registration fill out the form and register immediately!4. Use a Mail In Voting Form to make sure you are able to vote. Go to http://www.hawaii.gov/elections/voters/voteabsentee.htm to download the form to send in by October 25 to receive a mail in ballot to vote in the comfort of your home. No lines or traffic.5. Donate! We have an anonymous donor who will match any donation over $50. to the Save Our Land Citizen's Committee so that we can make signs, put ads on the radio, and make sure that all Big Island voters know to vote FOR the 2% Land Fund. Please make your checks out to Save Our Land and send to PO Box 4148, Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 6. Put Up a Sign! If you live on a highly-travelled road, in a visible spot, volunteer to put up a sign. Signs should be dark green with white writing that say: "Vote FOR the 2% Land Fund." If you can't make your own and would like one for your yard, call Sammie at 960-0645. 7. Sign Wave on Election Day! If you'd like to get outdoors and let your fellow voters know how important it is to protect the 'äina, we need you on election day! Please call Rosemary at 775-9002 or email alles@cfht.hawaii.edu to get directions on how you can spend election day at your local polling place helping others decide to vote for the 2% Land Fund.8. Print and Hand out the attached information sheet to give to friends family and co-workers.9. Print out the attached WINDOWsticker to paste in your window to get people talking. MAHALO!!FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ASK QUESTIONS PLEASE CALL DEBBIE HECHT 989-3222______________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Look for ballot question #1: it may be near the end of your ballot on November 7th. The following is an explanation of the Ballot Language and is meant to dispel any confusion. Please read carefully. The County has ordered that the 2% Land Fund ballot language will appear on the November 7th ballot as follows:ACTUAL BALLOT LANGUAGE: "The proposal would amend Section 2-214(b) of Hawaii County Code by adding the requirement that two percent (2%) of all real property tax revenues collected annually (including penalties) be earmarked for the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Fund. The proposal would also amend Section 2-214 (c) to remove the existing $5,000,000 limit on the fund's balance. Finally, the proposed change would remove section 2-214 (d) that explains how the fund shall be used." IF YOU AGREE, VOTE FOR FOR ___IF YOU DISAGREE, VOTE AGAINST AGAINST ___ The Save Our Land Committee strongly urges you to vote "FOR" this ballot measure. But why is the language so confusing and why is section 2-214(d) being removed? EXPLANATION:
The County translated our petition into their own ballot language, and stated that since the Save Our Lands Committee left 2-214 (d) off of our petitions, that it would be removed from the Land Fund ordinance.
We believe this is an incorrect interpretation; 2-214(d) was simply left off the petition because there was no room on the small petition pages and because there was NO intended change to this part of the Ordinance. 2-214 (d) simply states the Purpose of the current Land Fund Ordinance (see entire Ordinace Text below) and what specific types of lands can be preserved. They include: • Watersheds to protect drinking water• Beaches and coastal areas • Floodplains and properties prone to erosion, landslides and volcanic activity.• Native Hawaiian historical and cultural areas• Native forest areas• Coastal lands that buffer waters and reefs from runoff and pollution • Important Agricultural landsDESPITE THIS "INTERPRETATION," WE ARE ASKING EVERYONE TO VOTE FOR THE 2% LAND FUND! If passed, 2% of our existing property taxes will finally be placed in the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund –the name of the fund clearly dictates how the monies will be spent. In addition, the Save Our Lands Committee has secured the written endorsements from the Councilmembers and Council Candidates that state unequivocally that they support: 1-setting aside 2% of the property tax2- removing the limit on monies that can be held in the fund3- re-instating section 214-2 (d) after the Ballot Intitative passes to re-clarify the Fund purposes.The following COUNCIL Members & Candidates have signed our endorsements: Brenda Ford, Pete Hoffmann, Bob Jacobson, K. Angel Pilago, Gary Safarik, Dominic YagongIn summation, over the last 8 months we have been through hurdle after hurdle. The County's recent interpretation that 214-2(d) should be removed by the petition does not change the importance of the Land Fund and the critical importance of dedicating 2% of our current real property tax revenue to the Fund. It is time for Big Island voters to have a voice in how our tax dollars are spent. Please vote FOR the 2% Land Fund! Aloha! Please call if you have any questions:Debbie Hecht, Coordinactor 989-3222 or any of the Save Our Lands Committee Members: Wendy Vance from Ka'u, Steve Hirakami from Pahoa, MikeVarney from Waimea, Karen Clarkson from Honoka'a and Debbie Hecht from Kona HERE IS THE ACTUAL TEXT FROM THE COUNTY CODE:Article 42. Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund Section 2-214. Public access, open space, and natural resources preservation fund. (a) A public access, open space, and natural resources preservation fund is hereby established. This special fund shall be administered and managed by the finance department. (b) The fund shall consist of monies from: (1) The proceeds from the sale of any general obligation bonds, authorized and issued for the purposes of this article; (2) Council appropriations for the purposes of this article; (3) Any source of revenue dedicated by the Hawai`i County Charter or the Hawai`i County Code for the purposes of this article; and (4) Grants and private contributions intended for the purposes of this article. OUR COMMENT: TO BE ADDED: 2% OF PROPERTY TAXES AND PENALTIES WOULD BE DEPOSITED IN THE FUND EACH YEAR(c) In adopting each fiscal year's operating budget, the council shall appropriate a minimum of $250,000 to the public access, open space, and natural resources preservation fund. (1) When the unencumbered balance in the fund (exclusive of bond proceeds) equals or exceeds $5,000,000, no further county appropriations shall be made until the balance falls below $5,000,000. (OUR COMMENT: THIS IS TO BE DELETED IF THE 2% PASSES) (2) Nothing in this section shall prevent the council from appropriating amounts in excess of the above minimum amounts to this fund.( Our comment: BECAUSE THE FOLLOWING SECTION (d) WAS INADVERTANTLY LEFT OFF OF THE PETITION, THE COUNTY DECLARED THAT THE PETITION WOULD DELETE IT:)(d) The fund shall be used for acquiring lands or property entitlements in the County of Hawai'i for the following purposes: (1) Public outdoor recreation and education, including access to beaches and mountains; (2) Preservation of historic or culturally important land areas and sites; (3) Protection of natural resources, including buffer zones; (4) Preservation of forests, beaches, coastal areas, natural beauty and agricultural lands; and (5) Protection of watershed lands to preserve water quality and water supply. (2005, Ord. No. 05-85, sec. 2; Am. 2005, Ord. No. 05-166, sec. 1.)2-214 Section 2-215. Public access, open space, and natural resources preservation commission. (a) There is established a public access, open space, and natural resources preservation commission. There shall be nine members on this commission, appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the council. The members may be removed upon recommendation by the mayor and the approval of the council. One member shall reside in each County council district. The members shall serve staggered terms of five years. Upon initial appointment of the commission, one member shall be appointed to a term of one year, two for a term of two years, two for a term of three years, two for a term of four years, and two for a term of five years. Staff support shall be provided by the finance department. (b) No member shall be eligible for a second appointment to the commission prior to the expiration of two years, provided that members initially appointed for a term of one year and two years shall be eligible to succeed themselves for an additional term. (c) No member whose term has expired shall continue to serve on the commission, except that if no successor has been appointed and confirmed, the member shall continue to serve for ninety days or until a successor is appointed and confirmed, whichever comes first. (d) Any vacancy occurring in the commission shall be filled for the unexpired term. (e) Not more than a bare majority of the members shall belong to the same political party. (f) Members shall receive no compensation but shall be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties. Necessary expenses may be paid in advance as per diem allowance pursuant to article 16. (g) A chairperson shall be elected from its membership annually. (h) The affirmative vote of a majority of those members present shall be necessary to make any action valid. (i) The commission shall have the power to establish its rules of procedure necessary for the conduct of its business, which rules shall contain the time and place of all regular meetings, and which shall specify that a quorum shall be a majority of the members to which the commission is entitled. (j) No person shall, by reason of occupation alone, be barred from serving as a member of this commission. (k) The council shall act to confirm or reject any appointment made to the commission by the mayor within forty-five days after receiving notice of the appointment from the mayor. If the council does not confirm or reject any such appointment within forty-five days, the appointee shall be deemed to have beenconfirmed. (l) The redrawing of the council district boundaries during a member's term shall not affect a member's eligibility to represent the district to which the member was appointed. (2005, Ord. No. 05-166, sec. 2.)2-215 Debbie Hecht, Coordinator Save Our Lands Citizen's CommitteeP.O. Box 4148 Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 (808) 989-3222
On November 7th- Vote FOR the 2% Land Fund! Only 5 weeks to go…Here's several things you can do to help make sure Hawai'i lands are protected:1. Understand the Issue! You may have heard that after gathering almost 10,000 signatures that the BALLOT QUESTION the County has decided to place on the ballot is different than what Save Our Lands Citizen's Committee had submitted. This is true, but READ MORE AFTER #9TO FULLY UNDERSTAND THIS ISSUE. 2. We are 100% behind the 2% solution, and want everyone on the Island—including YOU—to vote FOR the 2% Land Fund. PLEASE encourage your friends and family to vote FOR the 2% Land Fund!!3. Register to Vote! Hundreds of people who signed our petition are not recognized as registered voters by the County. Are you one of them? October 9th is the deadline for voters to register in order to vote in the election. Call the County Elections office at 961-8277 to confirm that you are registered correctly, and if not go to http://www.hawaii.gov/elections/voters/registration fill out the form and register immediately!4. Use a Mail In Voting Form to make sure you are able to vote. Go to http://www.hawaii.gov/elections/voters/voteabsentee.htm to download the form to send in by October 25 to receive a mail in ballot to vote in the comfort of your home. No lines or traffic.5. Donate! We have an anonymous donor who will match any donation over $50. to the Save Our Land Citizen's Committee so that we can make signs, put ads on the radio, and make sure that all Big Island voters know to vote FOR the 2% Land Fund. Please make your checks out to Save Our Land and send to PO Box 4148, Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 6. Put Up a Sign! If you live on a highly-travelled road, in a visible spot, volunteer to put up a sign. Signs should be dark green with white writing that say: "Vote FOR the 2% Land Fund." If you can't make your own and would like one for your yard, call Sammie at 960-0645. 7. Sign Wave on Election Day! If you'd like to get outdoors and let your fellow voters know how important it is to protect the 'äina, we need you on election day! Please call Rosemary at 775-9002 or email alles@cfht.hawaii.edu to get directions on how you can spend election day at your local polling place helping others decide to vote for the 2% Land Fund.8. Print and Hand out the attached information sheet to give to friends family and co-workers.9. Print out the attached WINDOWsticker to paste in your window to get people talking. MAHALO!!FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ASK QUESTIONS PLEASE CALL DEBBIE HECHT 989-3222______________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Look for ballot question #1: it may be near the end of your ballot on November 7th. The following is an explanation of the Ballot Language and is meant to dispel any confusion. Please read carefully. The County has ordered that the 2% Land Fund ballot language will appear on the November 7th ballot as follows:ACTUAL BALLOT LANGUAGE: "The proposal would amend Section 2-214(b) of Hawaii County Code by adding the requirement that two percent (2%) of all real property tax revenues collected annually (including penalties) be earmarked for the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Fund. The proposal would also amend Section 2-214 (c) to remove the existing $5,000,000 limit on the fund's balance. Finally, the proposed change would remove section 2-214 (d) that explains how the fund shall be used." IF YOU AGREE, VOTE FOR FOR ___IF YOU DISAGREE, VOTE AGAINST AGAINST ___ The Save Our Land Committee strongly urges you to vote "FOR" this ballot measure. But why is the language so confusing and why is section 2-214(d) being removed? EXPLANATION:
The County translated our petition into their own ballot language, and stated that since the Save Our Lands Committee left 2-214 (d) off of our petitions, that it would be removed from the Land Fund ordinance.
We believe this is an incorrect interpretation; 2-214(d) was simply left off the petition because there was no room on the small petition pages and because there was NO intended change to this part of the Ordinance. 2-214 (d) simply states the Purpose of the current Land Fund Ordinance (see entire Ordinace Text below) and what specific types of lands can be preserved. They include: • Watersheds to protect drinking water• Beaches and coastal areas • Floodplains and properties prone to erosion, landslides and volcanic activity.• Native Hawaiian historical and cultural areas• Native forest areas• Coastal lands that buffer waters and reefs from runoff and pollution • Important Agricultural landsDESPITE THIS "INTERPRETATION," WE ARE ASKING EVERYONE TO VOTE FOR THE 2% LAND FUND! If passed, 2% of our existing property taxes will finally be placed in the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund –the name of the fund clearly dictates how the monies will be spent. In addition, the Save Our Lands Committee has secured the written endorsements from the Councilmembers and Council Candidates that state unequivocally that they support: 1-setting aside 2% of the property tax2- removing the limit on monies that can be held in the fund3- re-instating section 214-2 (d) after the Ballot Intitative passes to re-clarify the Fund purposes.The following COUNCIL Members & Candidates have signed our endorsements: Brenda Ford, Pete Hoffmann, Bob Jacobson, K. Angel Pilago, Gary Safarik, Dominic YagongIn summation, over the last 8 months we have been through hurdle after hurdle. The County's recent interpretation that 214-2(d) should be removed by the petition does not change the importance of the Land Fund and the critical importance of dedicating 2% of our current real property tax revenue to the Fund. It is time for Big Island voters to have a voice in how our tax dollars are spent. Please vote FOR the 2% Land Fund! Aloha! Please call if you have any questions:Debbie Hecht, Coordinactor 989-3222 or any of the Save Our Lands Committee Members: Wendy Vance from Ka'u, Steve Hirakami from Pahoa, MikeVarney from Waimea, Karen Clarkson from Honoka'a and Debbie Hecht from Kona HERE IS THE ACTUAL TEXT FROM THE COUNTY CODE:Article 42. Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund Section 2-214. Public access, open space, and natural resources preservation fund. (a) A public access, open space, and natural resources preservation fund is hereby established. This special fund shall be administered and managed by the finance department. (b) The fund shall consist of monies from: (1) The proceeds from the sale of any general obligation bonds, authorized and issued for the purposes of this article; (2) Council appropriations for the purposes of this article; (3) Any source of revenue dedicated by the Hawai`i County Charter or the Hawai`i County Code for the purposes of this article; and (4) Grants and private contributions intended for the purposes of this article. OUR COMMENT: TO BE ADDED: 2% OF PROPERTY TAXES AND PENALTIES WOULD BE DEPOSITED IN THE FUND EACH YEAR(c) In adopting each fiscal year's operating budget, the council shall appropriate a minimum of $250,000 to the public access, open space, and natural resources preservation fund. (1) When the unencumbered balance in the fund (exclusive of bond proceeds) equals or exceeds $5,000,000, no further county appropriations shall be made until the balance falls below $5,000,000. (OUR COMMENT: THIS IS TO BE DELETED IF THE 2% PASSES) (2) Nothing in this section shall prevent the council from appropriating amounts in excess of the above minimum amounts to this fund.( Our comment: BECAUSE THE FOLLOWING SECTION (d) WAS INADVERTANTLY LEFT OFF OF THE PETITION, THE COUNTY DECLARED THAT THE PETITION WOULD DELETE IT:)(d) The fund shall be used for acquiring lands or property entitlements in the County of Hawai'i for the following purposes: (1) Public outdoor recreation and education, including access to beaches and mountains; (2) Preservation of historic or culturally important land areas and sites; (3) Protection of natural resources, including buffer zones; (4) Preservation of forests, beaches, coastal areas, natural beauty and agricultural lands; and (5) Protection of watershed lands to preserve water quality and water supply. (2005, Ord. No. 05-85, sec. 2; Am. 2005, Ord. No. 05-166, sec. 1.)2-214 Section 2-215. Public access, open space, and natural resources preservation commission. (a) There is established a public access, open space, and natural resources preservation commission. There shall be nine members on this commission, appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the council. The members may be removed upon recommendation by the mayor and the approval of the council. One member shall reside in each County council district. The members shall serve staggered terms of five years. Upon initial appointment of the commission, one member shall be appointed to a term of one year, two for a term of two years, two for a term of three years, two for a term of four years, and two for a term of five years. Staff support shall be provided by the finance department. (b) No member shall be eligible for a second appointment to the commission prior to the expiration of two years, provided that members initially appointed for a term of one year and two years shall be eligible to succeed themselves for an additional term. (c) No member whose term has expired shall continue to serve on the commission, except that if no successor has been appointed and confirmed, the member shall continue to serve for ninety days or until a successor is appointed and confirmed, whichever comes first. (d) Any vacancy occurring in the commission shall be filled for the unexpired term. (e) Not more than a bare majority of the members shall belong to the same political party. (f) Members shall receive no compensation but shall be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties. Necessary expenses may be paid in advance as per diem allowance pursuant to article 16. (g) A chairperson shall be elected from its membership annually. (h) The affirmative vote of a majority of those members present shall be necessary to make any action valid. (i) The commission shall have the power to establish its rules of procedure necessary for the conduct of its business, which rules shall contain the time and place of all regular meetings, and which shall specify that a quorum shall be a majority of the members to which the commission is entitled. (j) No person shall, by reason of occupation alone, be barred from serving as a member of this commission. (k) The council shall act to confirm or reject any appointment made to the commission by the mayor within forty-five days after receiving notice of the appointment from the mayor. If the council does not confirm or reject any such appointment within forty-five days, the appointee shall be deemed to have beenconfirmed. (l) The redrawing of the council district boundaries during a member's term shall not affect a member's eligibility to represent the district to which the member was appointed. (2005, Ord. No. 05-166, sec. 2.)2-215 Debbie Hecht, Coordinator Save Our Lands Citizen's CommitteeP.O. Box 4148 Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 (808) 989-3222
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Town Meeting
OCTOBER TOWN MEETING:
October 3, 2006, Tuesday
Makaeo Events Pavilion (Old Airport Main Pavilion)
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Featured Speakers include:
Hawaii County Council District 7 candidates:
Virginia Isbell
Brenda Ford
Hawaii State House of Representatives, District 5 candidates:
Bob Herkes
Charles Hosley
Hawaii State House of Representatives, District 7 candidates:
Cindy Evans
Bill Sanborn
Lt. Governor candidate: Malama Solomon
Guest Speakers:
Mark Littorin of the Kohala Center
Pat Nakamoto of the County of Hawaii Elections Office
Community Enterprises is a non-profit and non-partisan organization. We
encourage Kona residents to attend our monthly Town Meetings. The
abbreviated and fast moving meetings provide the community with information
about events, services, organizations and governmental policies affecting
the Kona area. For more information, you can contact Carol Christianson at
324-7870.
Light refreshments will be served and everyone is warmly welcome.
October 3, 2006, Tuesday
Makaeo Events Pavilion (Old Airport Main Pavilion)
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Featured Speakers include:
Hawaii County Council District 7 candidates:
Virginia Isbell
Brenda Ford
Hawaii State House of Representatives, District 5 candidates:
Bob Herkes
Charles Hosley
Hawaii State House of Representatives, District 7 candidates:
Cindy Evans
Bill Sanborn
Lt. Governor candidate: Malama Solomon
Guest Speakers:
Mark Littorin of the Kohala Center
Pat Nakamoto of the County of Hawaii Elections Office
Community Enterprises is a non-profit and non-partisan organization. We
encourage Kona residents to attend our monthly Town Meetings. The
abbreviated and fast moving meetings provide the community with information
about events, services, organizations and governmental policies affecting
the Kona area. For more information, you can contact Carol Christianson at
324-7870.
Light refreshments will be served and everyone is warmly welcome.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)