The Hawaii Women's Legislative Caucus today announced that they received a call from the Honolulu Police Department's (HPD) Chief of Police's office canceling Thursday's meeting with the Women's State Legislative Caucus and three women members of the Honolulu City Council.
A representative of the Women's Caucus spoke with the office of Chief of Police Louis M. Kealoha to ask that the commitment to meet with the women on Thursday be honored.
"The purpose of Thursday's meeting was for the Women's Legislative Caucus and the three women city councilmembers to have the opportunity to speak with Chief Kealoha directly," said Senate President Donna Mercado Kim, a member of the Women's Caucus. "We hoped to work cooperatively with the police to strengthen efforts to end domestic violence and keep victims safe. We wanted to discuss concerns and questions about HPD's internal policies and procedures regarding domestic violence cases, especially when one of their own officers is a suspect that has been brought to us by victims' service providers."
"The Women's Legislative Caucus and women Honolulu City Councilmembers asked for the opportunity to discuss these issues with Chief Kealoha prior to the public informational briefing so that he could be prepared to respond fully in public, and to, hopefully, open the door to improved partnerships and outcomes in domestic violence cases," said Senate President Kim.
A representative of the Women's Caucus was told the meeting was cancelled because the internal investigation was not yet completed. "We made it clear that the Women's Caucus understands that personnel investigations are confidential and that we have no intention of interfering in that matter," stated Senator Laura Thielen, a member of the Women's Caucus. "We told Chief Kealoha's office that our concern and our meeting is to be focused on the broader HPD policies and response to domestic violence incidents."
The cancellation was completely unexpected. "Many of us rearranged our schedules to suit the Police Chief's requested meeting date and time. We are disappointed at his unexpected cancellation," stated Senate President Kim. "We sincerely hope this is not a sign of the lack of importance the department places on the issue of domestic violence. But it's perplexing to us why he would cancel such an important meeting with so many women leaders."
View the news release
Senate President Donna Mercado Kim issued the following statement on the Hawaii State Board of Land and Natural Resources' decision to approve a temporary housing first transition center lease and right of entry at Sand Island to the City and County of Honolulu. The Sand Island Housing First Transition Center includes a vague plan to temporarily house 100 homeless families.
Kim is disappointed that the Board issued a lease without details of the project and without giving the public an opportunity to provide input. In written testimony sent to the Board on September 12, 2014, she suggested that the Board defer action to issue a direct least of land until the next month's meeting. Kim said that a one month delay will not affect the project but will go a long way to involving the community and giving the city time to develop and share details of the project.
Kim's statement on BLNR's decision to issue a lease of land to the City and County of Honolulu for a housing first transition center without input from the community or details of the project:
"Despite the lack of public input, the community's opposition, and details of the city's plan, BLNR approved the lease of land for a temporary housing first transition center for the homeless at Sand Island.
"The only person to vote against the motion was Vernon Char, who suggested granting the immediate right of entry but to delay decision-making on the issuance of the lease until further details were provided by the City on the planned project.
"Char's motion was in line with the recommendations I made in written testimony to BLNR on September 12. I had also requested that we give the public an opportunity to express their thoughts and concerns on a project that could impact their community, and require the City to submit quarterly reports to ensure accountability and transparency.
"Although disappointed with the decision to approve the lease, I am glad that the Board did so with several important conditions. They include requiring the City to work with the Department of Health (DOH) and to submit progress reports to the Board; requiring the DOH to approve the site as safe with no health hazards; requiring an environmental assessment should the City extend the 3-year lease; and requiring more public input be obtained."
Senate President Kim's testimony
Following the public release of a surveillance video showing a Honolulu Police Department
(HPD) sergeant allegedly brutally beating his girlfriend in a Waipahu restaurant, the Hawaii Women's State Legislative Caucus and the three women members of the Honolulu City Council are calling on HPD to explain its policies and procedures for handling criminal actions involving its own officers and how the failure to act that occurred earlier this week is not repeated.
According to reports, HPD officers responding to the scene did not arrest the sergeant, nor did they file any reports of the incident that night. It was only on the following day, after a citizen provided HPD and the press with the surveillance video, that HPD took action to remove the sergeant of his police powers and begin an internal investigation into the incident, according to a Hawaii News Now report.
The Joint Women's Legislative Caucus and City Council members released the following statement:
"We are calling for a meeting with the Chief of Police, followed by an informational briefing with the Honolulu Police Department and Police Commission. The public has a right to know the department's policies and procedures for response to domestic violence or any other crimes when the offender is a police officer, particularly one who serves in a supervisory role.
"HPD officials must explain to the public why the alleged assailant was not charged and arrested given evidence of probable cause, including multiple witnesses who had to come to the woman's aide and a video surveillance depicting the appalling domestic violence assault.
"It is absolutely unacceptable that HPD officers chose not to enforce our domestic violence laws. The fact that the woman denied the incident is to be expected under the circumstances. Indeed, the responding officers' failure to take action clearly communicated that her safety will not be protected by them. If similar situations have occurred in the past, any victim of violence would deny it out of fear of retaliation.
"This incident sends a dark message to victims of domestic violence and all residents of Oahu, that members of HPD, who are supposed to serve and protect, may turn a blind eye to domestic violence or other criminal acts committed by of one of their officers.
"The integrity of HPD has been mired and trust has been lost. We demand public accountability."
View the news release
Senate President Donna Mercado Kim today issued the following remarks on the passing of former lawmaker Robert "Bob" Herkes, who passed this week at 83:
"I am saddened to learn of the passing of former lawmaker Robert "Bob" Herkes and my thoughts and prayers are with Jo-Anna and their family. Our state lost a revered man who dedicated his life to public service, and we were lucky to have him serve as a state senator, state representative and Hawaii County Council member. Even after leaving the Legislature, Bob never stopped contributing to the well-being of our state. The Senate in April confirmed him as a member of the Hawaii Tourism Authority Board and he was scheduled to attend his first meeting just a few days ago. Until the end, he was committed to improving the lives of Hawaii's people.
"Bob cared deeply about his home and its people. He fought tirelessly to strengthen our communities and create a better life for all. Many will remember him for effectively passing legislation helping homeowners during the mortgage foreclosure crisis, and spearheading efforts to address the impacts of VOG on health and safety, agriculture, the economy and tourism. Because of his work, Hawaii Island received a mobile medical van that acts as a roving clinic in under-served areas.
"He was a respected lawmaker, sharp businessman and compassionate mentor and friend. We will miss him dearly.
"On behalf of the Hawaii State Senate, we offer our deepest condolences to his wife Jo-Anna, sons Bob, Ken and Dough, and all family and friends at this difficult time."
Aloha,
After learning from Hawaii News Now that UH failed to consider a viable presidential candidate that was recommended to them, I can no longer remain silent on this issue.
I speak out not in favor of any candidate, but in the best interest of the students and the University. This is such an important decision. Finding the best candidates far outweighs the Regents excuses why they are only left with two candidates.
Therefore, I am supporting the UH Manoa Graduate Student Organization and its resolution vote of "no confidence" in the search process, and I call for the Board of Regents to re-open their search.
Please join us by signing an online petition asking the Board of Regents to re-open the search for the next system-wide President of the University of Hawaii.
Click HERE to sign the petition: Demand that that Board of Regents re-open the search for the University of Hawaii's new President.
The final selection should also include the three newly confirmed Regents and should not be pushed to a vote to accommodate the three outgoing Regents whose terms expire on June 30th.
Mahalo,
Senator Donna Mercado Kim
Senate President
The Hawaii State Senate today adjourned the 2014 session passing more than 240 bills that align with its initial priorities to make Hawaii a better place for everyone now and in the future through initiatives supporting Hawaii's keiki, kūpuna, workers and the environment.
"The ability to compromise and work together is essential to making good laws that help Hawaii's people today and in the future," said Senate President Donna Mercado Kim. "It is thanks to the patience and passion of our members and advocates that we were able to complete another successful session."
"With anything we do in life, it's always about balance. That's the same way we look at it here in our majority caucus," said Sen. Brickwood Galuteria. "Every issue will have two opposing sides. Our job as lawmakers is to come out at the end of session with worthy legislation that improve the quality of life of our people. I think we did just that and I'm proud of my colleagues in the Senate Majority.
The Senate Majority, whose members are Democrats, this afternoon took action on its final bills of the session. Some of the major bills discussed and approved were several education measures that align with earlier action emphasizing the Senate's commitment to Hawaii's keiki, the future of Hawaii.
Lawmakers passed four bills relating to education, one prohibiting teachers from using seclusion and creating conditions and procedures for the use of restraint in schools in order to promote the safety and well-being of students (HB2257), and another raising the salary cap of the superintendent of education in order to attract and retain exemplary candidates (HB2257). The third bill will allow charter schools to charge fees on the use of facilities to help cover operating costs (HB1745).
Overall, many of the notable bills this session focused on prevention and maintaining core services and projects. Lawmakers funded initiatives that address imminent problems (as part of the joint majority package) such as the rise in kūpuna population, spread of invasive species, and effects of climate control. Lawmakers also remained committed to providing continued support for the people most in need, including Hawaii's keiki, kūpuna and workers who earn the lowest wages.
The governor has 45 days from the time a bill was received to veto it, sign it into law, or allow it to pass into law without his signature.
Highlights of Bills Passed this Session
The Hawaii State Legislature today approved more than 135 on final reading ahead of the adjournment sine die this Thursday, including the state supplemental budget, measures supporting kūpuna and protecting the environment, and flagship bills raising minimum wage and funding the Turtle Bay Conservation Easement. The measures will now be enrolled to Governor Neil Abercrombie for consideration. The Governor has until Monday, June 23 to notify the legislature of an intent to veto and until Tuesday, July 8 to sign.
"Through the diligence and efficiency of my colleagues in both the Senate and House, not to mention their willingness to compromise, we have passed key measures that support our workers, kūpuna, keiki and environment," said Senate President Donna Mercado Kim.
"Caring for our kūpuna and protecting our environment was a priority of the legislature this year," said Majority Leader Brickwood Galuteria. "The four measures we passed will help fund preventive measures to care for our aina and seniors."
State Supplemental Budget
HB1700 includes funding for core services such as education, health, the University of Hawaii, human services, the environment, public safety, and supporting and caring for the lives of Hawaii's people.
Through prudent money management, and in order to reflect a weak economic forecast, lawmakers reduced Gov. Neil Abercrombie's executive budget request by $173 million in general funds over fiscal biennium 2013-15. The governor's $200 million budget request for FY2015 was significantly cut down to $65.7 million.
Funding for capital improvement projects amounted to just over $5 billion, of which $2.3 billion is funded in general obligation (GO) or reimbursable bonds. This number includes the lapse and reauthorization of $339 million in GO Bonds for the State Educational Facilities Improvement (SEFI) Fund. The budget includes $40 million for grant-in-aid (GIA).
"We've had some challenges balancing the budget this session, especially with lower-than-expected tax revenue projections," said Sen. David Ige, chair of the Ways and Means Committee, "but through the commitment of both Senate and House members to work together to balance the needs and concerns of everyone in our community, we were able to make the smart financial decisions to close the budget."
Flagship Measures Passing Final Reading:
Increasing Minimum Wage
Senate Bill 2609 will boost the income of Hawaii's lowest paid workers giving them more money to spend and invest, increasing economic activity and growth, while allowing them to care for their families. The final version of the bill increases the state's minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10 over the next four years. For workers who earn at least $7 more than the minimum wage, businesses can deduct a 75 cents tip credit. The current tip credit is 50 cents.
Preserving Hawaii's Lands
House Bill 2434 will provide the $40 million needed to complete the agreement reached last week between the State of Hawaii, City and County of Honolulu, The Trust for Public Land, and Turtle Bay Resort (TBR) to establish a conservation easement on 665.8 acres of land at Turtle Bay Resort in Kahuku.
JOINT MAJORITY PACKAGE BILLS
Supporting Hawaii's Kūpuna
HB1713 SD2 and SB2346 SD1 HD2 supports Hawaii's kūpuna through funding of aging, long-term care and investor education programs.
Protecting the Environment
HB1714 establishes an interagency sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation committee under the State Department of Land and Natural Resources.
The final joint majority package bill, HB1716, which appropriates $5 million to the Hawaii Invasive Species Council for invasive species prevention, control, outreach, research, and planning, passed out of committee earlier this month.
Although the Senate passed out SB2478, a bill updating the chiropractic scope of practice, the House voted to recommit the both measures to committee. Both the House and Senate recommitted SB2799, relating the salary of the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation Executive Director.
The Senate deferred a vote on HB1652, a bill establishing a 5-year pilot program at the University of Hawaii Hilo School of Pharmacy and a University of Hawaii at Hilo College of Pharmacy Special Fund, until Thursday, May 1. And the House deferred vote on SB3065, the Dole land exchange bill, and until then as well.
Thursday, May 1, is adjournment sine die, the final day of the 2014 Legislative Session and the last day for the lawmakers to vote on measures. Senate will convene session at 11 a.m.
Click here to view Highlights from the Budget.
Senate President Donna Mercado Kim issued the following remarks on SB3122 relating to OHA's Kakaako-makai parcels:
"Conference is meant as an open dialogue to discuss and resolve differences between House and Senate bills in a collaborative manner. Although this bill did not survive this legislative session, I'm sure debate will continue on this issue."
In the spirit of collaboration, House and Senate conferees today struck a balance passing out several conference drafts that support the people of Hawaii and protect and preserve the land that they live. The bills now goes to the full Senate and House for a final floor vote.
"The Legislature for the third year in a row worked efficiently and effectively to end conference negotiations on time," said Senate President Donna Mercado Kim. "In the past, certain bills required extending the deadline for negotiations. Efficiency is important to the Senate as we continue to do work for the people of Hawaii."
Increasing Minimum Wage
Senate Bill 2609 will boost the income of Hawaii's lowest paid workers giving them more money to spend and invest, increasing economic activity and growth, while allowing them to care for their families. The final version of the bill increases the state's minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10 over the next four years. For workers who earn at least $7 more than the minimum wage, businesses can deduct a 75 cents tip credit. The current tip credit is 50 cents.
"From the start of the session, the Hawaii State Senate has been committed to improving the lives of Hawaii's people and raising the minimum wage is just one of the measures that will do just that," said Sen. Clayton Hee, Judiciary Chair. "Raising the minimum wage is not only good for Hawaii's people, it's the right thing to do and makes good economic sense. My colleagues and our counterparts in the House worked tirelessly to work out differences and through compromise were successful in approving this much-needed piece of legislation."
Preserving Hawaii's Lands
House Bill 2434 will provide the $40 million needed to complete the agreement reached last week between the State of Hawaii, City and County of Honolulu, The Trust for Public Land, and Turtle Bay Resort (TBR) to establish a conservation easement on 665.8 acres of land at Turtle Bay Resort in Kahuku.
"The Senate has always been committed to funding this important conservation easement on the North Shore," said Sen. David Ige, Ways and Means Chair. "This session and last, we advanced legislation funding the agreement, and were ready to include the $40 million in the state budget. I'm pleased with the result and thank those members who worked quickly and diligently to pass out this bill before the deadline."
State Supplemental Budget
HB1700 includes funding for core services such as education, health, the University of Hawaii, human services, the environment, public safety, and supporting and caring for the lives of Hawaii's people. Through prudent money management, and in order to reflect the weak economic forecast, lawmakers reduced Gov. Neil Abercrombie's executive budget request by $173 million in general funds over fiscal biennium 2013-15. The governor's $200 million budget request for FY2015 was significantly cut down to $65.7 million.
Funding for capital improvement projects amounted to just over $5 billion, of which $2.3 billion is funded in general obligation (GO) or reimbursable bonds. This number includes the lapse and reauthorization of $339 million in GO Bonds for the State Educational Facilities Improvement (SEFI) Fund. The budget includes $40 million for grant-in-aid (GIA).
"Education was a real winner in this bill," said Ige. "We were able to make key investments at every level ensuring that our students have the best access to quality education. We also made investments to protect our agriculture lands by adding positions to the pesticides branch in the Department of Agriculture, funded many key programs in other areas and closed on time with a balanced and fair budget despite challenges."
JOINT MAJORITY PACKAGE BILLS
Supporting Hawaii's Kūpuna
HB1713 SD2 and SB2346 SD1 HD2 supports Hawaii's kūpuna through funding of aging, long-term care and investor education programs.
Protecting the Environment
HB1714 establishes an interagency sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation committee under the State Department of Land and Natural Resources.
The final joint majority package bill, HB1716, which appropriates $5 million to the Hawaii Invasive Species Council for invasive species prevention, control, outreach, research, and planning, passed out of committee earlier this month.
"The Senate and House members of the 2014 legislative session put forth a joint majority package that addresses the combined interests and priorities of our State and I am pleased that the remaining three bills in the package have made it out of conference," said Senate Majority Leader Brickwood Galuteria. "These bills support the present and future of our state as it supports our kūpuna and addresses the effects of climate change for our future generation. Here in Hawaii, we are lucky to live in a place that cherishes our culture, traditions and environment, and protecting those ideals is one of our duties as lawmakers."
The Hawaii State Legislature will be honoring local boy Bruno Mars for his great successes in his musical career. Tonight Senate President Donna Mercado Kim, along with Jerry Chang, UH Hilo's director of university relations, and Bruce Coppa, Gov. Neil Abercrombie's chief of staff, will present Bruno with a certificate recognizing his outstanding career and saluting the impact he has made on the world with his music.
"Bruno Mars is an extremely talented young man and Hawaii is very proud of him," said Kim. "He represents our state well and I congratulate him for pursuing his musical gifts."
"His extraordinary career began as a musical child prodigy, and since then he has honed his skills as a performer, composer, songwriter and producer," she added. "He's an inspiration to many and has a bright future ahead of him."
Bruno, 28, is playing his last sold-out show Monday after a weekend of wowing fans. Hawaii is the first stop on Mars' second leg of his Moonshine Jungle World Tour.
Highlights of the Senate Certificate Honoring Bruno Mars
His friends and classmates at Roosevelt High School remember him as Peter Gene Hernandez, but even as a teenager he was showing signs of the tremendous talent within. The son of musical parents and professional entertainers, Bruno, as he was nicknamed at an early age, formed a band with friends and performed with his family's act at the Ilikai Hotel.
Already a prodigy as a child, he honed his act and repertory, not to mention his musical gifts, during his many years of performing in Waikiki.Following his graduation from high school in 2002, Bruno Mars left the islands to seek his fortune in Los Angeles.
His career developed slowly, and it was only after he turned his creativity to composing did he begin to enjoy greater exposure. Bruno made a decision to focus on his songwriting and producing skills, helping other performers develop their careers. It was not until 2010 that Atlantic Records gave him the opportunity to sing in the chorus for his composition, "Nothin' on You" recorded by rapper B.o.B., and he finally found himself as a pop performer as well as a composer.
Bruno released his first solo single, "Just the Way You Are," several months later and hasn't looked back since. The few short years following his breakthrough as a performer have been nothing short of remarkable, as he earned a Grammy Award for best male pop vocal performance, had his debut album reach platinum status, sold 45 million singles to date around the world, copped numerous industry honors in the United States and elsewhere, been named as one of Time Magazine's 100 most influential people in the world, and wowed football fans as the featured half-time act at the 2014 Super Bowl. Bruno Mars, a young man born in Hawaii, has become a musical phenomenon and a global icon, and an exceptional representative of the people of these islands.
The Senate and House of Representatives of the Twenty-seventh Legislature of the State of Hawaii hereby commends and congratulates Bruno Mars on his outstanding career and extends our best wishes for his continued success throughout the years to come.
Senate President Donna Mercado Kim today issued the following comments on the passing of Brandon Cayetano, son of former Gov. Ben Cayetano:
"I am saddened to hear of the passing of Brandon Cayetano. On behalf of the Hawaii State Senate, it is with great sorrow that I extend our deepest condolences to the Cayetano family for the loss of their beloved son and brother. Our thoughts and prayers are with former Governor Ben Cayetano and his family during this difficult time."
Today the Hawaii State Senate and the Hawaii State House of Representatives convened a special joint session to recognize four military service members with Hawaii ties who have given the ultimate sacrifice of life while serving our country.
The recipients of the Hawaii Medal of Honor include: United State Army Sergeant Tofiga Tautolo, 23; United State Air Force Captain Reid Nishizuka, 30; United State Army Sergeant Drew Scobie, 25; and United State Army Sergeant Edward Balli, 42.
The Hawaii State Legislature presented the families of these brave heroes with the Hawaii Medal of Honor. As of January 20, 2014, Hawaii has lost 331 service members with Hawaii ties.
Senate President Donna Mercado Kim issued the following statement:
"Today is a day of remembrance as we recognize the courage embodied by the service members who have sacrificed their lives in defense of our nation and the freedoms we treasure. The men honored today are our sons, brothers, husbands and best friends, and they will never be forgotten."
If you're a loyal fan standing in line to purchase a coveted concert ticket, and plan to attend that concert, you should be able to have more than six percent of a chance to purchase that ticket, said Senate President Donna Mercado Kim. The lawmaker has introduced a resolution urging concert and entertainment venues to require only in-person ticket sales for the first 48 hours.
The resolution was triggered by the disappointment of local residents after the quick sale - three concerts sold out in 2-hours - of tickets for local boy Bruno Mars' Hawaii shows in April. It was later announced that people from the mainland and Canada snagged 42 percent of the 17,000 tickets. Even more frustrating was for those who stood in the long lines at the Blaisdell box office, only six percent of tickets were bought there. It's also been reported that scalpers who purchased tickets in bulk are selling them for exorbitant prices. Kim is hoping to change this for concertgoers so that those who will actually go to a performance are able to purchase tickets from the original venue at the actual ticket price, and not from a secondary market at inflated prices.
"Despite waiting in line for hours, many fans were unable to purchase tickets to the upcoming Bruno Mars concert at the Blaisdell Center," said Kim. "Anyone who takes the time to show up in person should have the opportunity to purchase tickets for at least the first two days before opening up to online sales. It's unfortunate that out-of-state ticket brokers and scalpers will resell these concert tickets back to local residents for an enormous profit."
The resolution names and urges the following entities to set purchasing terms: Hawaii Community Development Authority, Stadium Authority, Department of Enterprise Services of the City and County of Honolulu, Board of Regents, President of the University of Hawaii and Chancellor of the University of Hawaii at Manoa, and the Hawaii Tourism Authority.
These entities hold concerts at venues such as Kakaako Park, Aloha Stadium, the Neil S. Blaisdell Center, Waikiki Shell, University of Hawaii Stan Sheriff Center and the Hawaii Convention Center.
"Our residents should enjoy a night of entertainment without having to pay inflated prices," said Kim.
Senate President Donna Mercado Kim is strongly urging University of Hawaii officials not to balance a potential $2 million budget deficit by raising student fees. Through a senate resolution, she points out the already high student fees per semester that amount to $1,400,000 per year to the UH Athletics Department. Students currently pay a $50 mandatory fee per semester.
Officials have blamed the deficit on a disappointing 1-11 football season with low ticket sales and the inability to meet a $1 million fundraising goal. However, although acknowledging these facts, the resolution also points out that the discontent and dissatisfaction of some longtime financial supporters with the leadership and transparency of the Board of Regents and the President, and their public statements on no longer contributing funds.
"University officials made bad leadership decisions and now we are seeing the result of them," said Kim. "Why are we asking our students to pay for the shortfalls of university decision makers? We shouldn't allow students to shoulder the burden of the UH Athletics Department or any other department."
According to the resolution, student fees should be based on an objective criteria or an appropriate formula rather than an apparently arbitrary amount decided by the University. It goes on to say that if fees are raised to close a budget deficit, once it is balanced, those fees should be reduced accordingly.
"This is not what we want to teach our future generation of leaders," she added. "By passing the buck to them, we're saying 'Look, if you make a mistake and don't meet expectations, you can just force someone else to deal with it.'"
The Hawaii State Senate today recognized Dennis Francis, president and publisher of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, who was recently named "Publisher of the Year" by Editor & Publisher Magazine, the leading journal of the newspaper industry.
Francis merged Hawaii's two daily papers, the Honolulu Advertiser and Honolulu Star-Bulletin in 2010 and turned two struggling newspapers into one prosperous one. Over the past three years, the Star-Advertiser has successfully introduced a breaking news app for smart devices, created an innovative digital pricing structure, and promoted open and transparent government by filing lawsuits requiring public agencies to release information on their proceedings. Additionally, Frances is actively involved in the community and serves on a number of organizations, including the Boy Scouts of America, American Red Cross, Aloha United Way and Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii.
"Francis is well-deserving of Publisher of the Year," said Senate President Donna Mercado Kim. "His successes in professional achievements are more than matched by his charitable work. On behalf of the entire Senate body, I commend Dennis for his many contributions to our community, and wish him many more years of success and fulfillment in his professional and personal endeavors."
A dialogue focused on clean energy, technology and local households is at the center of a town hall meeting being held by 'Aiea and Pearl City area lawmakers on Thursday, August 15, 2013, at the Pearl Ridge Elementary School's cafeteria at 7:00 p.m.
"The impact of rising rates of traditional energy sources is being felt in the pockets of many of our local households, who are having to dig deeper and deeper to pay the monthly electric bill or fill up the gas tank, "said Senate President Donna Mercado Kim, who represents District 14 (Kapalama, ‘Alewa, Kalihi Valley, Ft. Shafter, Moanalua Gardens & Valley, portions of Halawa and ‘Aiea). "This meeting is the perfect opportunity for residents to learn about the different forms of clean energy available, so they can make informed decisions that will hopefully save them money in energy costs."
Apart from the typical solar and photovoltaic (PV) approach, residents will be updated on other alternative energy technologies available for their homes as well as tax credits and financing options to help fund such systems. Several electric vehicles will also be on site for residents to view and test drive the latest in vehicle technology.
In addition, information tables will be available, allowing for one-on-one questions with numerous industry professionals to help guide the residents in choosing the best energy saving technologies that are cost effective and tailored to their needs.
Guest speakers include representatives from the Hawaii Solar Energy Association, Hawaii Energy, and Hawaiian Electric Company. The Department of Taxation will also be present.
The town hall is being hosted by lawmakers representing the ‘Aiea and Pearl City areas: Sen. David Y. Ige, Senate President Donna Mercado Kim, Rep. Aaron Johanson, Rep. K. Mark Takai, Rep. Roy Takumi, Rep. Gregg Takayama, and City Councilmembers Breene Harimoto and Carol Fukunaga.
View the media release.
The Senate approved its version of the 2013-2014 budget bill, which includes funding for five of District 14's capital improvement projects (CIPs).
The Senate and House must now meet in conference committee to determine the final budget that will be sent to the Governor for his approval.
District 14 CIP Projects Introduced in 2013 Legislature:
|
School/ Organization |
Funding Amount | Project | Status |
| Kapalama Elementary School | $250,000 | Design and construct a new door to replace existing door for fire safety improvements | Proposed for Funding in Senate Budget Bill |
| Moanalua Gardens Foundation | $450,000 | Kamananui (Moanalua) Valley improvements | Proposed for Funding in Senate Budget Bill |
| Farrington High School | $3,750,000 | Plan, design, and construct an all weather track and supporting facilities | Proposed for Funding in Senate Budget Bill |
| Red Hill Elementary School | $420,000 | Design and construction to resurface driveway and parking lot | Proposed for Funding in Senate Budget Bill |
| Farrington High School | $6,250,000 | Plan, design, construction and equipment for the modernization of campus facilities | Proposed for Funding in Senate Budget Bill |
| Aiea Intermediate School | $560,000 | Cafeteria stage improvements and support spaces | Not Funded |
| Fern Elementary School | $100,000 | Construct additional parking lot | Not Funded |
| Kalihi Uka Elementary School | $75,000 | Install wheelchair lift to cafeteria and library located on the 2nd floor | Not Funded |
| Kapalama Elementary School | $310,000 | Bathroom renovations | Not Funded |
| Aiea Intermediate School | $1,670,000 | Design and construct an applied technology center | Not Funded |
Mahalo to all the volunteers and the Moanalua community for a successful Aloha Aina Recycling Drive on Saturday, April 6. Many community members helped to keep our landfills free of scrap metal, appliances, batteries, electronics, paper, cans, bottles, and cardboard by recycling.
Senator Kim joined Prevent Child Abuse Hawaii, the Department of Health, and the Child Abuse Prevention Planning Council on Sunday to plant pinwheels in the State Capitol Lawn to raise awareness of child abuse and neglect prevention. You can see the pinwheels on display until April 14 on the Beretania Street Lawn.
A big congratulations to the MHS Symphony Orchestra for being invited a third time to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City, one of our country's most prestigious musical performance venues. Ninety-one fellow musicians, under the guidance of band teacher Elden Seta, performed at the esteemed site for an Easter Sunday concert.
The school's symphony orchestra holds the distinct honor of being the first student orchestra in the country to be formally invited to perform at Carnegie Hall in 1998.
Read more in the April 2013 Community Report
Mahalo to all of our student visitors to the Capitol during the Legislature's annual Education Week. Among our visitors were members of the Farrington High School 9th Grade Class, as well as Robotics Teams from Farrington High School, Kalakaua Middle School and Moanalua Middle School.
Read more in the April 2013 Community Report
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| Farrington High School Robotics Team | Moanalua Middle School Robotics Team | Kalakaua Middle School Robotics Team |
Governor Abercrombie has released capital improvement project (CIP) funds for the following school projects.
• $253,777 for Phase 1 of Aiea Intermediate's campus drainage improvements and waterline replacements.
• $90,550 for restroom renovations for Building A at Kalihi Uka Elementary
Read more in the April 2013 Community Report
A community town meeting to take place on Thursday, March 21, 2013 at the Pearl Ridge Elementary School cafeteria will feature Mayor Kirk Caldwell, who will discuss his priorities as Mayor, including issues such as the timely construction of rail, traffic congestion, and improvements to the sewer system. The meeting will be held from 7:00-8:30pm. Call Representative Takayama's office at 586-6340 for more information.
Read more in the March 2013 Community Report
State legislators and community leaders celebrated breaking ground for the new Aiea Public Library. The ceremony took place on March 16, 2013 to mark the start of the new facility being built at the old Aiea sugar mill. The library is scheduled for completion in November of this year.
Read more in the March 2013 Community Report
Governor Abercrombie has released capital improvement project (CIP) funds for two District 14 projects.
• $700,000 for Phase IV of the Kalihi Valley Homes project, which will include site and dwelling improvements.Read more in the March 2013 Community Report
• $221,570 for upgrading Aiea Intermediate school's fire alarm system.
Senate President Donna Mercado Kim is proposing six bills in her legislative package that directly impact the University of Hawaii. The bills are based on findings and recommendations from the Senate Special Committee on Accountability's informational briefings to review the oversight, accountability, and transparency of the operational and financial management of the University of Hawaii System, chaired by Senator Kim in September and October 2012.
"The discussion and call for University of Hawaii flexibility and autonomy has been around since the 1980s. Over the past three decades the Executive and Legislative branches of the State of Hawaii have worked together to provide the University of Hawaii with more flexibility and autonomy. However, that autonomy and self governance has evolved to a point where the Senate feels that, in the interest of statewide concern, the University of Hawaii needs to be held more accountable and operate in full transparency," explained Senate President Donna Mercado Kim.
The proposed bills range in topics from procurement for construction projects, to revising the number of University General Counsels, having the Board of Regents undergo annual training on board policies and procedures, requiring the Board of Regents to file annual disclosures of financial interest which would become public record, clarifying how the members of the Board of Regents are selected by the Governor, and revising the makeup of the Board of the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii (RCUH).
For reference purposes, the bills are:
SB 1383 - Repeals the President of the University of Hawaii's authority to serve as the Chief Procurement Officer for construction contracts.
SB 1384 - Limits the Board of Regents to appointing one University General Counsel.
SB 1385 - Requires the Board of Regents to undergo annual training and certification.
SB 1386 - Requires the Board of Regents to file annual disclosure of financial interest.
SB 1387 - Gives the Governor the authority to reject the list of nominees to the Board of Regents presented by the Regents Candidate Advisory Council.
SB 1388 - Reduces the number of members of the Board of Directors of the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii (RCUH) and removes the authority of the President of the University to also serve as the President of RCUH.
View the media release.
With the flu season well underway, Senate President Donna Mercado Kim received her flu shot vaccination this afternoon at the State Capitol. HMSA, with its partner CVS-Longs, and Kaiser Permanente offered vaccinations for their working members at the State Capitol today. The event was coordinated through the offices of Senate President Donna Mercado Kim, Vice Speaker John Mizuno, and Representative Dee Morikawa.
The flu season officially begins on October 1st of each year, and continues through mid-May of the following year. To learn more about how to protect yourself against the flu visit the Department of Health's website at: http://flu.hawaii.gov/general-info.html.
Senate Vice President Donna Mercado Kim (Sen. District 14) has been selected as the President of the Senate and will preside during the 27th Hawaii State Legislature, which will convene on January 16, 2013. Senator Ronald D. Kouchi (Sen. District 8) will serve as Senate Vice President. Senator David Ige (Sen. District 16) will continue as Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, with Senator Michelle Kidani (Sen. District 18) serving as his Vice Chair.
The Senate acted quickly to organize after Maui State Senator Shan Tsutsui (Sen. District 5) took the oath of office as Lieutenant Governor yesterday. The Senate line up remains mostly intact to allow members continuity in their committee work as the Senate has been preparing for the upcoming session.
"We are solidified in dealing with the pressing issues facing our State. The Senate continues to be organized in a cooperative and focused manner. I'm humbled to receive the confidence and support of my colleagues" said Senate President Kim.
"We reached an agreement quickly so that we can continue to focus our attention on the issues and begin preparations for the 2013 session," said Senate Vice President Kouchi.
A complete listing of Senate Leadership and Committee Chairmanships is as follows:
President: Donna Mercado Kim
Vice President: Ronald D. Kouchi
Majority Leader: Brickwood Galuteria
Assistant Majority Leader: Michelle Kidani
Ways and Means, Chair: David Ige
Ways and Means, Vice Chair: Michelle Kidani
Majority Floor Leader: Will Espero
Majority Policy Leader: Les Ihara, Jr.
Majority Whip: Gil Kahele
Majority Whip: Jill Tokuda
Judiciary and Labor, Chair: Clayton Hee
Commerce and Consumer Protection, Chair: Roz Baker
Agriculture, Chair: Clarence Nishihara
Technology and The Arts, Chair: Glenn Wakai
Economic Development, Government Operations, and Housing, Chair: Donovan Dela Cruz
Energy and Environment, Chair: Mike Gabbard
Education, Chair: Jill Tokuda
Tourism and Hawaiian Affairs, Chair: Brickwood Galuteria
Health, Chair: Josh Green, M.D.
Higher Education, Chair: Brian Taniguchi
Human Services, Chair: Suzanne Chun Oakland
Public Safety and Military Affairs, Chair: Will Espero
Transportation & International Affairs, Chair: J. Kalani English
Water and Land, Chair: Malama Solomon
View the media release.
There's been tremendous public interest in the Senate Special Committee on Accountability's hearings on the University of Hawaii's management issues.
While public reaction to the hearings have included calls for everything from firing top UH administrators to subpoenaing public officials to have them testify under oath, that is not the purview of the Accountability Committee or the desire of the Legislature.
Here are the facts to help you understand the committee's scope:
• The committee's task is to review the oversight, accountability, and transparency of the operational and financial management of the University of Hawaii, including the Manoa athletics program.The University as an autonomous entity:
• Since the legislature is not in session, the committee may conduct informational briefings to gather information and request individuals to testify before the committee. After gathering the information, the committee will submit a report with recommendations.
• At this stage the committee does not have the authority to subpoena or put any individuals under oath.
• Once the 2013 Legislature opens, a resolution needs to be voted upon to establish the Special Committee on Accountability as an investigative committee with the authority to subpoena testifiers to appear before the committee.
• The voters approved a Constitutional amendment granting a significant degree of autonomy to the University of Hawaii to govern its own affairs.
• The Board of Regents members are appointed by the Governor from a list of recommended nominees and confirmed by the Senate. Once they are confirmed there is no provision to remove a Regent from the Board
• With self-governance in place, the Legislature cannot take action to overturn UH decisions or to hire and fire administrative/leadership personnel.
The Senate Leadership has assigned the Senate Special Committee on Accountability the task to "review the oversight, accountability, and transparency of the operational and financial management of the University of Hawaii System, including but not limited to the University of Hawaii at Manoa Athletics Department."
As Chair of this Committee, Senator Kim will conduct the briefing looking into the transparency and accountability of the University's operations, in the wake of the recent cancelation of the Stevie Wonder concert and the administration's responses to that situation.
The committee is comprised of Vice Chair Senator Jill Tokuda and Senators Les Ihara, Jr., Ron Kouchi, and Sam Slom as members.
The first public informational briefing will be held on Monday, September 24, 1:00 p.m., in State Capitol Room 211. Only written testimony will be accepted which can be submitted by email to
SCATestimony@capitol.hawaii.gov (10mb limit) or by mail to:
Senate Special Committee on Accountability
415 South Beretania St. Room 210
Honolulu, HI 96813
Senator Kim accepting the "Legislator of the Year" honor
The Friends of the Library of Hawaii recently named Senator Kim "Legislator of the Year" for her efforts to preserve vital funding for the library system during her term as chair of the Ways and Means Committee and for her leadership in securing support for the Salt Lake and Aiea public libraries during her legislative tenure.
The award was presented by Governor Neil Abercrombie and the Friends at a January 11 ceremony at Washington Place. Said Senator Kim, "I accept this honor not for myself but for my fellow legislators, past and present, without whom I could not effectively represent the residents of my district...for all the employees of the Hawaii State Public Library System, who devote themselves to providing this important public service across the islands...and to the patrons of our libraries - young, old, and in-between - who are the reason we work so hard to support this cherished American institution."
Celebrating Palama Settlement Centennial and the Tourism Committees tour Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club and the Disney Aulani Resort. Read more in the December 2011 Community Report.
Information on the upcoming APEC Summit taking place November 8 - 13 and how you can help your neighborhood through the Prosecutor's Drug Nuisance Abatement Program. Read more in the November 2011 Community Report.
Senator Kim at the 5th annual China-United States Tourism Leadership Summit. The After School All-Stars program held a presentation at Dole Middle School with a surprise visit by founder Arnold Schwarzenegger. Read more in the October 2011 Community Report.
State reapportionment is in its final stages for public hearings at the listed locations with the final plan due on September 26th. Information on the pedestrian safety program "Walk Wise Hawaii" which took place at the end of August. Read more in the September 2011 Community Report.
Update on the ongoing HSTA contract negotiations at the Aiea / Pearl City Town Hall meetings. Capital Improvements worth $2,000,000 for Dole Middle School and Aiea Intermediate School. Come see Frank DeLima at the AARP hosted "Tips for Successful Aging" seminar. Read more in the August 2011 Community Report.
Wrap-up of the 2011 Legislative Session and information on the possibility of a Special Legislative Session. Support Hiki No, the nation's first student news network with area participants Moanalua and Farrington High School. Stay informed and involved in the legislative process with the help of the Public Access Room. Read more in the June 2011 Community Report.
Update on the conclusion of the 2011 Legislative Session. Supporting success for Hawaii's students through the Step Up program in our public schools. Moanalua High Schoolhas been selected as one of 15 model high schools by the International Center for Leadership in Education. Read more in the May 2011 Community Report.
April 2011 Community Report-325 bills were passed from the Senate to the House on March 8. Families of 16 Service Members received the Hawaii Medal of Honor from the State Legislature. Over 100 turned out for Moanalua/ Salt Lake Town meeting March 29. Read more in the April 2011 Community Report.
March 2011 Community Report- Updates on legislative bills and resolutions, town hall meetings, Aloha Aina Earth Day at Farrington High School, capital improvement project funds for Kalihi-Waena Elementary and Moanalua Elementary Schools... Read more in the March 2011 Community Report.
January 2011 Community Report- Highlights include the new Senate Leadership assignments, an invitation to Meet & Greet Governor Neil Abercrombie and Lt. Governor Brian Schatz, tourism-related news on 2011 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, and kudos to Hawaii 3R's, the non-profit organization which recently awarded a grant of $96,900 to Moanalua High School. Read more in the January 2011 Community Report.
Highlights include congratulations to Dole Middle School recognized as first Hawaii school to receive 2010 School of Distinction award, Investigation of the Dept. of Budget and Finance's handling of state's investment in student loan auction rate securities, funding for Kalihi-Palama Health Center in fight against chronic kidney disease. Read more in the November 2010 Community Report.
News highlights include information on the two Constitutional Amendments to be on the ballot, congratulations to Red Hill Elementary for meeting AYP goals, free flu vaccines for kids, an update on Kuhio Park Terrace, the First Annual Appreciation Day Celebration, and a schedule of town events and community meetings. Read more in the October 2010 Community Report.
"The embattled deputy state transportation director in charge of airports abruptly stepped down last week with just five days' notice. Brian Sekiguchi's management skills and ethics have come under fire by a key state senator...At a July 19 hearing, State Senate Ways and Means Chairwoman Donna Mercado Kim accused Sekiguchi of taking at least one day of vacation in April of 2009 without putting in for vacation time..." View full article
Included are: highlights and accomplishments of the 2010 Legislative Session, community survey results, Senator Kim on the Hot Seat, 2010 Donna Mercado Kim Aloha Spirit Awards. Read more
The Honolulu Star-Advertiser yesterday published the following editorial:
"The director of Hawaii's airports through most of the Lingle administration abruptly resigned this month, but his departure should not abort investigations of the state Transportation Department's airports division. Taxpayers deserve to know whether the irregularities preceding Brian H. Sekiguchi's departure took the form of sloppy administration, lack of oversight, criminal wrongdoing or all of the above..." View full article
August 2010 Newsletter - Senator Kim's Committee on Ways and Means is conducting a series of informational briefings at the State Capitol this summer with the state's Department of Taxation, Department of Transportation, Department of Human Resources Development, Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism and the Department of Budget and Finance in regards to various issues.