Support the Maui Food Bank by purchasing a delicious Boba Bake and Bubble Drink!
Support the Maui Food Bank by purchasing a delicious Boba Bake and Bubble Drink!
37 pints of blood were collected at this year's annual blood drive hosted by the Office of the Senate President. Mahalo to everyone who participated!
If you had the option to shell out a dollar today, to help you save $10 tomorrow, would you do it? Would you spend money to save money?
Sound investments that spell big savings for the State are one of the numerous ways in which the Senate seeks to fulfill its vision of breathing new life into our economy, transforming the way we operate and building a better and more sustainable Hawaii.
As part of this vision, Senate Bill 2012, "The Invest in Hawaii Act of 2012," aims to help the Aloha State and its residents. We need to get people back to work, while generating savings now and in the future. SB2012 is an aggressive, $500 million general obligation bond-funded capital improvement measure that addresses repair and maintenance projects and is designed to create an estimated 5,000 jobs statewide.
By investing significant funds today, SB2012 allows the State to save money and generate revenue by fixing existing State buildings that are badly in need of repairs and are not being fully utilized. Instead of spending money to lease private properties elsewhere, addressing needed repairs would allow the State to use its vacant or underutilized buildings to house its own displaced employees. The projects contemplated include those that have been long deferred and must to be undertaken eventually. Maximizing the utilization and extending the useful life of existing state-owned facilities will, in the long run, prove to be a priceless investment for Hawaii.
Additionally, there's no better time to build. This bipartisan initiative takes advantage of today's historically low interest rates, which makes current conditions favorable for companies and governments to borrow. The current supply-demand imbalance helps keep costs down by encouraging competition among companies vying for projects. In fact, delaying much-needed repairs to public facilities would unnecessarily increase a project's price tag, since it would cost more to fix structures in the future when infrastructure damages worsen and drive up construction costs.
Another facet of the measure endeavors to decrease the long-term cost of government through the installation of energy efficient technology, which would allow the State to provide higher levels of services, all for a lesser cost. Understanding nature's valuable benefits, the State is already moving forward with efforts to reduce the cost of school operations. The Department of Education recently announced a contract for a pilot project for the installation of photovoltaic systems for 15 public schools. The agreement provides the State solar power without any up-front costs, and the third party providers will be afforded a mechanism to claim tax credits. It will ultimately save the State an estimated $30 million over the life of the project. If the State were to similarly install PV systems at all 255 of our public schools, the State could realize a savings of over $500 million over the next 20 years. Efforts like these result in cost savings and a lesser drain on the State's general fund resources - all while reducing our carbon footprint, which continues to be another priority of the Senate.
By investing in the types of projects included in SB2012, we'll immediately help get our economy back on track and realize big savings in various ways. But most importantly, we'll give our keiki a safer and better learning environment, provide our kupuna with better medical facilities, and improve state infrastructures for our residents and visitors.
"The Invest in Hawaii Act of 2012"
The primary objective of this measure is to cut into the State's multibillion dollar deferred repair and maintenance backlog to immediately stimulate direct and indirect job creation. "The purpose of this package is simple." Said Senate President Shan S. Tsutsui. "It will put more people back to work and stimulate the economy. The investment we make today will provide a better future for the people of Hawaii."
The Senate Majority proposes to aggressively fund G.O. Bond-funded CIP projects through an increased appropriation of approximately $500M. This will create shovel-ready jobs for all trades in the construction industry - from carpenters to consultants, putting money in workers' pockets and giving businesses confidence to begin hiring again.
The focus should remain on smaller repair and maintenance projects to address aging infrastructures and to extend the useful life of existing state-owned assets and facilities. Other projects should also include those that address health and safety code concerns. Funding will be provided throughout State departments. The permitting, approval and procurement processes in both the private and public sectors would be streamlined and/or simplified to facilitate expedient movement and to ensure that government is able to provide services to the public in the most efficient manner possible.
Along with this aggressive approach to stimulating our economy, the Senate Majority fully supports the following initiatives:
Sustainability and Renewable Energy
The Senate Majority will continue to participate in the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative and reduce energy consumption throughout our State facilities, such as schools, hospitals, and office buildings with the intention of making Hawaii a model for the rest of the country. The Senate Majority will also continue to make developing sustainable and renewable energy strategies and initiatives a priority across the State of Hawaii.
Retooling Government
In the area of technology, the Senate Majority Caucus package seeks to further invest in the State's information technology infrastructure in order to improve government and to better serve the public. The investment in IT upgrades strives to increase productivity, making government more efficient.
People and Children
As a result of strengthening the economy and putting more people back to work, our State’s safety net would be secured and the basic needs of all citizens would be met. The Senate will also continue its strong support for education. From Hawaii's youngest keiki to wisest kupuna, ensuring access to the highest quality educational opportunities will remain a top priority, which will make Hawaii competitive in the global economy.
On January 18, 2012, delegates from Fukuoka, Japan visited our State Capitol to recognize 30 years of sisterhood with the State of Hawaii. A signing ceremony commemorating the long-standing economic and cultural relationship was held in conference room 329 with remarks from the Senate President, Speaker of the House Calvin K.Y. Say, and Chairperson of the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly Kensai Haraguchi. Guest Ko Isayama translated and Entertainer Danny Kaleikini opened and closed the ceremony in both Japanese and Hawaiian.
In 1981, Hawaii established its first sister relationship with Fukuoka, Japan. At the time, relations were more culturally based, however, over the past three decades economy has played a steady role in strengthening ties with much of Hawaii's tourism industry being dominated by Japanese visitors. Our connection with Fukuoka is expected to grow even stronger in the future with Hawaiian Airlines resuming direct flights to Fukuoka. Senator Tsutsui stated that it was an honor to host the delegation and hoped that Fukuoka and Hawaii would serve as a model for successful sister relationships around the world. (Video courtesy of House Majority Communications)
"Last year we began with the assertion that better days were ahead. Today, we find ourselves in a position to reflect on the past year's accomplishments, and realize that there has been progress, and we have laid the foundation for even better days."
To continue reading, click here.
Opening Day for the Twenty-Sixth Legislative Session will convene on Wednesday, January 18, 2012 at 10am. In response to our State's slow economic recovery, the Senate President and Speaker of the House have requested a "scaled back" session, free of entertainment and guests on the Chamber floors. Opening Day will be treated as a normal working day with limited speeches by presiding officers and caucus leaders. The gallery will be open to the public on a first come, first served basis.
Last week, the Department of Transportation began holding a series of meetings with project stakeholders on Maui regarding a comprehensive plan to replace and/or rebuild Kahului Airport's 70-year old runway. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, current runway repairs are not eligible for federal Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funding; however, cost of rebuilding could be financed by the Federal Government up to 75 percent. A number of options on how to proceed are currently being assessed by the Department, all of which may have a tremendous impact on Maui. The DOT will continue to meet with interested stakeholders throughout the rest of January. Additionally, to allow our community members the opportunity to weigh in on the matter, a public meeting will be held on January 23, 2012, at 6pm at Pomaika‘i Elementary School (4650 South Kamehameha Ave, Kahului). Interested parties are encouraged to attend.
From August 1st -September 11th, Senate President Shan S. Tsutsui teamed up with Aloha United Way to help raise funds toward building healthier and stronger communities. For over 90 years Aloha United Way has acted as a safety net to our most vulnerable populations across the State of Hawaii. Because of your kindness and generosity, our keiki, kupuna and neighbors in need can continue to count on vital support and services. Mahalo for helping make a difference and changing lives!
Lahaina Listening Session
10:00am - 12:00pm
Lahaina Intermediate School Cafeteria
871 Lahainaluna Road, Lahaina, Hawai‘i 96761
Kahului Listening Session
2:30pm - 4:30pm
Maui Waena Intermediate School Cafeteria
795 Onehee Street, Kahului, Hawai‘i 96732
The DLNR Administration Team, including Chairperson William J. Aila, Jr., First Deputy Guy H. Kaulukukui, Ph.D. and Water Deputy Bill M. Tam from Honolulu, is visiting Maui to hear community comments, questions, and concerns regarding topics under the Department's jurisdiction. This meeting is hosted by Senate President Shan S. Tsutsui as part of a series of DLNR Listening Sessions to be conducted statewide.
If you are unable to attend but would like to send your comments, questions, and concerns to the DLNR, please e-mail: DLNR2011ListeningSessions@hawaii.gov
Individuals requiring assistance or accommodations are asked to contact Senate President Tsutsui's Office at least four days in advance of the meeting. (If calling from Maui, please dial this toll free number: 984-2400. After the message and at the dial tone, enter 6-7344 for Senate President Tsutsui's office. If calling from Oahu, please dial 586-7344.)
Pu‘u Kukui Campus Aerial View
Pu‘u Kukui Fact Sheet
Wailuku II Master Plan
All photos and documents courtesy of State of Hawaii Department of Education
On September 2, 2011, Senate President Tsutsui attended the 5th Annual Business Fest, Hui Holomua, hosted by the Maui Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce. Holomua, or progress in Hawaiian, reflects the collective goal shared by conference participants' toward growth and development in our Hawaiian business community.
The conference was held at the Grand Wailea Resort in Kihei, Maui and featured lectures relating to issues on: Culture and Rights, Governance, Economic Development, Education, Housing, Land and Natural Resources, Human Services and Health.
Senate President Tsutsui was invited to talk story on these matters along with a number of recognizable community members including Mayor Alan Arakawa, Nainoa Thompson and OHA trustees Colette Y. Machado and Judge Boyd P. Mossman. Other highlights of the conference included cultural opening and closing ceremonies as well as the 3rd Annual Koi Awards to recognize leaders who have contributed to the well-being of our communities and State.
On September 1, 2011, Senate President Tsutsui and his colleagues held a special session to confirm gubernatorial nominee Karen Tooko Nakasone to the Circuit Court of the First Circuit.
Karen Nakasone has been a public defender in Honolulu since 1996 and will be filling the vacancy created by Judge Sabrina McKenna's appointment early this year to the Supreme Court.
On August 24, 2011, Senate President Shan S. Tsutsui along with Governor Neil Abercrombie, Lieutenant Governor Brian Schatz and Justice of the Supreme Court Sabrina McKenna, swore in 93 members of various State of Hawaii Boards and Commissions in the House of Representatives Chamber.
Senate President Tsutsui, Governor Abercrombie, Lieutenant Governor Schatz and Judge McKenna welcome DHRD Director Sunshine P.W. Topping as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Employer-Union Health Benefits Fund. (Photo by Ricky Li)
On September 7, 2011, the groundbreaking ceremony for a much needed second elementary school in Wailuku Maui will commence with Senate President Shan S. Tsutsui, Governor Neil Abercrombie and the State of Hawaii Board of Education in attendance.
In response to Central Maui's rapidly growing population, the Senate President along with Representatives Kyle Yamashita and the late Bob Nakasone successfully lobbied their colleagues during the 2007 Legislative Session for an appropriation of $41 million to plan, design and construct a new elementary school in Wailuku. Set to be built in the 2,000 home subdivision of Kehalani, the school will accommodate approximately 550 students and is expected to be completed in two years.
Referred to as Wailuku II Elementary since its inception, the school was awarded the official name of Pu‘u Kukui earlier this year as the result of a naming contest held at Wailuku Elementary. Meaning "hill of enlightenment," not only is the translation appropriate, it also reflects the summit name of the West Maui Mountains on which the school is to be built.
The groundbreaking ceremony will be held from 10am-11am at 3700 Kehalani Parkway in Wailuku Maui.
Check out Senate President Shan S. Tsutsui, Senator J. Kalani English and Senator Roz Baker as they discuss issues relating to Maui, current legislation and the state budget in ‘Olelo's current installment of Maui Mana‘o.
‘Olelo's Program Play Dates for Maui Mana‘o: Episode 4
08/21/11 Sun. 8:30 pm VIEW (Ch. 54)
08/22/11 Mon. 8:30 am FOCUS (Ch. 49)
08/25/11 Thu. 11:00 am VIEW (Ch. 54)
08/26/11 Fri. 12:30 pm FOCUS (Ch. 49)
July 12 marked the 45th day after adjournment, signifying the last day for the Governor to sign bills and transmit objections on veto measures. In total, 235 measures were enacted into law and 17 were vetoed; seven bills became law without the Governor's signature.
"The Legislature worked diligently this year to pass many bills that are important to the residents of Hawaii," said Senate President Shan Tsutsui. " We appreciate the Governor's review of the measures and his relationship with the Senate. The signing and vetoing of these final bills marks the end of the 2011 Legislative Session and it sets the stage for the 2012 Legislative Session."
To view measures APPROVED by the Governor, please click HERE.
To view measures VETOED by the Governor, please click HERE.
To view measures that BECAME LAW WITHOUT THE GOVERNOR'S SIGNATURE, please click HERE.
Aloha Neighbors,
Thank you for the honor and privilege to serve as your Senator in the Hawaii State Legislature. I am deeply humbled by your continued support and remain dedicated to serving the needs of our community.
Faced with a sluggish economy and 1.3 billion dollar budget shortfall, my first session as President of the Senate was without a doubt extremely challenging. However, in this session recap, I will share with you how my colleagues and I unified under two guiding principles to balance the budget while maintaining and streamlining core government functions.
As my staff and I move into the interim, we will continue working toward positive changes to benefit our community and State as a whole. As always, please contact my office if we can be of any assistance to you.
Sincerely,
Senator Shan S. Tsutsui
Click here to read the June 2011 Session Overview.
Click here to read the May 2011 Legislative Update.
Click here to read the April 2011 Legislative Update.
Click here to read the March 2011 Legislative Update.
Click here for more information.
News on Community Action Organizations Recognized by the Senate, Medal of Honor Ceremony and Wailuku II Elementary School
Click here to read the February 2011 Legislative Update.
News on Opening Day, Aloha Aina Earth Day, and the Maui County Council Inauguration.
Click here to read the January 2011 Legislative Update.
"Today, as we have gathered here to start the 2011 legislative session, I open with this assertion - that 'Better Days Are Ahead.' "
Click here to continue reading Senate President Tsutsui's Opening Day Remarks.
Thank you for honoring me with the privilege of serving as your Senator in the Hawaii State Legislature. I am deeply humbled by your continued support and will do my best to maintain the trust you have invested in me as a representative of our community.
The 2010 General election initiated a great deal of change in our government and, as the newly selected Senate President, I look forward to working alongside my colleagues and the new administration to steer our state toward positive growth and change.
Although my responsibilities in the Senate now encompass a broader scope, Maui and my constituency remains my utmost priority. As we move into the 2011 legislative session, I remain committed to tackling current issues facing our communities and am hopeful that, by working together, we can make Hawaii a better place to live and work for our residents.
Once again, thank you for your continued confidence and support. Wishing you and your family a safe and happy holiday season.
Mahalo,
Senator Shan S. Tsutsui
Click here to read more.
WAILUKU -- On January 15th 2010, Senate President Shan S. Tsutsui will team up with the County of Maui, Baldwin High School and Schnitzer Steel to host Maui's first annual Aloha Aina Earth Day at Baldwin High School from 8:00am-2:00pm.
Click here to read about Aloha Aina Earth Day Maui.
Click here to read about the Baldwin High School recycling event.