November 10, 2016 alt=

Latest News on Lanakila

In early November, I received the following update on work at Hilo's Lanakila Housing:

Lanakila Homes Demolition of Phase IIIB & IV (31 buildings) Demolition of all the buildings and concrete foundations is complete. The Construction Work Plan (CWP) is currently under review by the Hazard Evaluation and Emergency Response (HEER) Office of the Department of Health (DOH). Upon receipt of the approved CWP, soil remediation can be completed and full demolition achieved. Installation of the new perimeter fencing and dust barriers is ongoing. The estimated completion of demolition is June 2017.

Lanakila Homes Phase IIIB - New Construction (16 units) The construction is on hold due to the contaminated soil. The CWP is currently under HEER review. Once the CWP is approved, the excavation of the Phase IIIB can commence upon approval of the additional work due to the modified excavation requirements to remove the contaminated soil. Approval of the Construction Work Plan: November 2016; Start of Site Excavation Work: December 2016; Estimated Completion of Construction: November 2017.

Lanakila Homes Fair Housing Site Improvements (ADA Site Work & Additional Parking) The bid opening was held on May 31, 2016. The contract award is delayed due to a bid irregularity by the low bidder. We are waiting the Attorney General's (AG) concurrence to award to the next low bidder. AG Concurrence Decision: November 2016; Contract Execution: December 2016; Start of Construction: January 2017; Estimated Completion of Construction: December 2017.

October 13, 2016

TRAINING AT HILO AIRPORT; BUSINESS SEMINAR SCHEDULED

On October 17, the Hilo Airport and Hawaii County Emergency responders will participate in emergency training. This exercise is designed to validate and improve response in a crisis situation, and will involve a simulated fuel vehicle incident. Hilo Airport Fire Department, airport maintenance, airport security, area hospitals, law enforcement, fire and emergency teams, government officials and agencies, and private-sector partners will participate. The areas where the exercise will take place will be clearly marked. For more information, please call the state Dept. of Transportation Public Affairs Office (Oahu) at 587-2160.

On October 25, there will be a seminar in Hilo on state grant funding available to small businesses and manufacturing companies to help them with product development or expansion. Hosted by the High Technology Development Corporation (HTDC), this seminar will give attendees information on the available grants through several sources. The grant programs provide matching funds up to 50% to a maximum of $500,000, depending on the program. Details are time: 3-5 p.m.; location: Aging & Disability Resource Center- 1055 Kinoole Street. For more information, please visit http://www.htdc.org

October 12, 2016 alt=

FUNDS RELEASED FOR HILO PROJECTS

I received confirmation that the Governor released funding for Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) in the Hilo area including, but not limited to:

• The Food Basket, Inc. $250,000 for infrastructure repairs to its warehouse facilities
• Hawaii Community College, Manono Campus: $1.5 million for construction of a portable office trailer facility
• Hilo Medical Center: over $1 million to renovate the acute care hospital
• Hilo Medical Center: $1.9 million CT renovation and replacement project

September 30, 2016

HILO'S MEETING ON STATE BIOSECURITY PLAN

In early September, the state Dept. of Agriculture (DOA) released a draft of the 2017-2027 Hawaii Interagency Biosecurity Plan for the State of Hawaii.

To view the executive summary of the plan, please go to:
https://hdoa.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Executive-Summary_Draft-Biosecurity-File.pdf

To view the 81-page draft plan, please go to:
https://hdoa.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Draft-Hawaii-Interagency-Biosecurity-Plan.pdf
DOA will be holding public meetings statewide and will also accept written public comments on the draft plan until October 21, 2016. There will be 2 public meetings on the Big Island:

Hilo: Wednesday, 10/12/16, 6-8p.m. @ Hilo High School Cafeteria, 556 Waianuenue Ave.

Kailua-Kona: Thursday, 10/13/16, 6-8p.m. @ Kealakehe High School Cafeteria, 74-5000 Puohulihuli St.

To submit comments regarding the draft via e-mail to H.T. Harvey & Associates, please use this address: jdebruyn@harveyecology.com

Lastly, please remember that the state Public Access Room (PAR) staff will hold a Hilo workshop on Tuesday, October 18 at the Hilo Library. Please see the details in my September 9th post below.

September 28, 2016 alt=

SOFTBALL FIELD IMPROVEMENTS AT WAIAKEA HIGH

The state Dept. of Education (DOE) informed me that construction at Waiakea High’s softball field will begin soon. The school's administration was advised that over $894,000 was awarded for the improvements, and contractors will be mindful to minimize any inconvenience where practical during work.

September 20, 2016 alt=

CELEBRATING NATIONAL CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY WEEK WITH FREE CAR SEAT CHECKS

The state Dept. of Transportation (DOT) announced its partnership with the county police department and child passenger safety advocates to promote National Child Passenger Safety Week.

In Hawaii, children under 4 years old are required to ride in a child safety seat; children 4 through 7 years old must ride in a child passenger restraint or booster seat. Violators are required to appear in court, and if convicted, must attend a four-hour class. They may also be assessed a penalty of up to $500. Hawaii has more than 340 certified child passenger safety technicians, including firefighters, law enforcement officers, medical professionals and parents. All technicians have been trained to provide instruction on choosing the right car seat, installing it and using it correctly.

A free public car seat check event will be held on National Seat Check Saturday, September 24, at: Target, Hilo 391 E. Makaala St. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more on child safety, as well as a list of child restraint inspection stations and community car seat check, visit: www.kipchawaii.org or www.safercar.gov/parents

September 9, 2016 alt=

Make Your Voice Heard

The State's Public Access Room (PAR) staff will hold several workshops on the Big Island in October. Hilo's workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, October 18 at the Hilo Public Library. Beginning at 5 p.m., PAR staff will be available for drop-in questions and to pass out information. The formal presentation/workshop will be from 6-7 p.m.

Topics include understanding the legislative process and tips/techniques on effective testimony. Newcomers and seasoned advocates are welcome! For additional information, please contact PAR at toll-free number 974-4000, ext. 7-0478 or at email par@capitol.hawaii.gov

September 7, 2016 alt=

News from the DOE

The State Department of Education (DOE) will send a U.S. Department of Education Federal Survey Card home with Hawaii's public school students for parents to complete beginning Wednesday, September 7, 2016.

Completed Impact Aid Program survey cards allow DOE to qualify for a partial reimbursement for educating federally connected students, such as children whose parents work or live on federal property. Received funds go to all local school districts and can be used to hire teachers, purchase textbooks and computers, pay for utilities and more. Parents are strongly urged to complete the surveys and return them to their schools as soon as possible. Completed survey forms will benefit students at all public schools statewide. Federal reimbursements help to offset such costs as student transportation, school utilities, substitute teachers, portable classrooms and many others necessities.

Without these federal funds, the Hawaii public school system would have $40 million to $50 million less per year to operate with and would need to reduce support for all schools to pay all its expenses. Please access this link for more information: http://www.hawaiipublicschools.org/ParentsAndStudents/MilitaryFamilies/Pages/About-Impact-Aid.aspx

August 9, 2016

Jury Questionnaires to be Mailed Out

Every August, the Hawaii State Judiciary mails juror questionnaires to individuals who have a Hawaii State driver's license or are registered to vote in the State of Hawaii. Starting August 15, 2016, juror questionnaires will be mailed to approximately 70,000 people on the Big Island. These questionnaires are used to help select potential jurors who may be eligible to serve in 2017. Those who receive a questionnaire have 10 days to complete and return the questionnaire to the Jury Pool Office. Anyone who fails to respond may be penalized.

August 5, 2016 alt=

Fall 2016 Open House

The College of Continuing Education and Community Service (CCECS) at UH-Hilo is hosting a Fall 2016 Open House at the UH Hilo Old Gym on Saturday, August 20, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

The public is encouraged to attend and learn about fall non-credit classes, meet instructors, and register for classes. Anyone registering at the event will receive a 10% discount on class tuition. Class demonstrations including yoga, ballroom dance, and boxing will be offered. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information, please call CCECS at 932-7830 or email ccecs@hawaii.edu

July 29, 2016 alt=

New ARFF Station at Hilo Airport

The new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) station at the Hilo International Airport opened on July 29, 2016. The new two-story, 21,000 square-foot facility includes an emergency operations center, and improved work and living quarters for firefighters. The facility will also accommodate larger sized ARFF vehicles and provide training facilities to help firefighters perform at their highest capabilities.

Nearly 87% of the $18.8 million cost was provided by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The State/DOT Airports Division provided the remaining $3 million. The new station is fully compliant with FAA requirements. Please check my Photo Stream for event pictures.

July 28, 2016

ESSA Team Town Hall Meeting in Hilo

I received information today about the Governor's Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Team Town Hall Meeting in Hilo. As a follow up to the Hawaii Education Summit held in July at the Hawaii Convention Center, the purpose of the town hall meeting is to: (1) create a shared vision for public education in Hawaii (2) learn about the opportunities provided by the new ESSA law, (3) to discuss a future-focused education system for Hawaii, and (4) to collect input, feedback, and advice for a new blueprint for public education in Hawaii.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016
4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Waiakea High School Cafeteria

Students, Teachers, Principals, Vice Principals, School Staff Members, Parents, Community Members, and all who are interested in supporting public education in Hawaii are welcome.

June 29, 2016 alt=

Update on New 2016 Laws

The Governor was required to submit his Intent to Veto list to the public on June 27, 2016. The list totaled nine bills that could be vetoed on or before the deadline of July 12, 2016. This list is available here: http://governor.hawaii.gov/main/governors-office-news-release-governor-ige-releases-intent-to-veto-list/ On July 12, any measure that has not been signed or vetoed by the Governor will become law with or without his signature.

This means that three of my bills will become law. House Bill (HB) 1050, 1997, and 1999 all relate to agriculture, and aim to improve the industry now and in the future. You may read each of these measures by using the "Bill Status/Measure Status" search box on the Legislature's webpage http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/

These bills are in addition to another of my introductions, HB 2422 which was signed into law as Act 12 on April 22, 2016.

June 24, 2016

Lanakila Homes Update

The Hawaii Public Housing Authority (HPHA) recently provided me with this update on Hilo's Lanakila Homes.

Demolition of Phase: The demolition contractor completed the demolition of the 7 concrete slabs in Phase IIIB with soil samples taken from under 3 buildings. Concrete slabs of Buildings 74, 107 and 114 were also demolished for soil testing. Soil test results will take 2 to 3 weeks. The demolition will be on hold until the soil test results are completed. A public notice was published in the Hawaii Tribune Herald on May 16, 2016, and a public meeting was held on May 26th at the Lanakila Community Center.

Lanakila Public Housing - Construction of 16 New Units: Start of construction is on hold until the Remediation Action Report (RAR) is finalized after the end of the 30-day commentary period, which began on May 16, 2016. The RAR may modify the demolition and soil excavation requirements and procedures.

Lanakila Fair Housing Improvements: The Invitation for Bids (IFB) was posted on May 6, 2016. The pre-bid meeting was held on May 18, 2016 at the Lanakila Community Center. The bid opening was on May 31, 2016.

June 9, 2016 alt=

Free Natural Hazard Preparedness Workshop

It's Hurricane Season again in Hawaii. Find out how to prepare your home, belongings, and family at a free workshop. Topics include evacuation planning, emergency supplies, and insurance. The workshop will be on Saturday, June 25th from 9:00-11:30 a.m. at UH-Hilo UCB100. Please RSVP to reserve a seat: via email l.hasegawa@capitol.hawaii.gov or via phone 974-4000, extension 66680 (toll-free).

June 3, 2016 alt=

Hilo Airport Funds Released

Earlier this week, Governor Ige informed me that funding for a Capital Improvement Project (CIP) at Hilo Airport was released. This CIP addresses current airfield drainage issues. The money amounts are $350,000 in State funds and $3,150,000 in Federal funds, for a total of $3.5 million. The estimated completion date is October 2017.

June 2, 2016

Mobile Vet Center Comes To Hilo

Since 2012, the Mobile Vet Center (MVC) has provided Vet Center services on Oahu. On June 17 & 18th, the MVC will be in Hilo, then at other Big Island locations throughout the month. Active Duty, Reserve, National Guard, all Veterans, family members, and community members who are interested in free and confidential readjustment counseling services and/or information and assistance from VA Vet Centers are welcome. The MVC will be at Hilo Safeway on June 17 from 0800-1630, and at Hilo Farmers Market on Mamo Street on June 18 from 0800-1630.

Please call the Hilo Vet Center at 969-3833 with any questions.

May 31, 2016 alt=

HCC Students Build 49th Model Home

A Native Hawaiian family in Keaukaha received keys to their new home on May 12th. It was custom built by Hawaii Community College (HCC) students during the past academic year. The home was built as part of HCC's Model Home Project which was established in 1965. Since then, more than 3,960 students in HCC construction trades programs have benefited from hands-on experience through the Model Home Project.

The Model Home Project is a partnership with the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL). DHHL acts as the developer and HCC provides the skilled labor force while educating students. Please read the full article here

May 11, 2016 alt=

#HIQualityEd

The Hawaii State Department of Education (DOE) and Board of Education are embarking on a review of its 2011-2018 Strategic Plan. They need input from students, parents, educators, and community members to create an updated understanding of student success. Your views on the direction of the DOE's strategies for public education are welcome.

Please participate in the Strategic Plan survey at http://hiqualityed.tumblr.com/ which will be open until May 31, 2016.

April 26, 2016

Rep. Tsuji's HB2422 Enacted into Law

From West Hawaii Today-

http://www.westhawaiitoday.com/news/local-news/liquor-law-streamlined-governor-signs-tsuji-s-business-friendly-bill

April 19, 2016

Free Legal Clinic in Hilo

In recognition of Law Week, The Hawaii State Bar Association young lawyer volunteers will be available to talk with the public and provide legal information and referral assistance. Topics include Family Law, Elder Care, Estate Planning, and Wills and Trusts.

No appointment is needed and all are welcome. Hilo's clinic will take place on May 7, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at KTA Puainako.

April 19, 2016 alt=

Waiakea High Construction to Begin

The Department of Education (DOE) recently informed me that campus construction projects will begin shortly. Various pending repair and maintenance needs will be addressed. Although some noise is associated with this type of work, DOE officials intend to minimize disruption and inconvenience as much as possible.

April 1, 2016

Filing Taxes Is More Important Than Ever for Those with Health Connector Insurance

The State Dept. of Human Services (DHS) announced that filing taxes is more important than ever this year for individuals and families who got their 2015 health insurance coverage through the Hawaii Health Connector. When an individual or family files their taxes and reconciles their advanced premium tax credits, they preserve the ability to receive help with health insurance in 2017. DHS urges all individuals and families who received health insurance through the Connector in 2015 to file their taxes by the April 18, 2016 deadline.

This year, those who got their 2015 healthcare coverage through the Connector should have received a Form 1095-A. This form allows filers to calculate any advanced premium tax credits they received to help pay for insurance. It is important to include information from the 1095-A form in tax returns so that individuals and families can remain eligible for help with health insurance costs in 2017.

Individuals and families who had insurance through the Connector who have not received a Form 1095-A should contact 1-877-628-5076 or email support@hawaiihealthconnector.com

March 24, 2016

UH Proposed Tuition Schedule

The University of Hawaii will present its proposed tuition schedule for Fall 2017 through Spring 2020 to the community at open public meetings statewide from March 28 to May 5. The meetings will explain the tuition proposal and what the increases will be used for. Students, faculty, staff and the general public are welcome to give feedback.

After input is received and considered, a final recommendation will be presented to the UH Board of Regents at a public meeting for action in June 2016.

Hilo area meetings are scheduled for April 28, 12 noon at Hawaii Community College, Kaneikeao Conference Room, Building 379, room 1, and also at 4 p.m. at UH-Hilo, Hooulu Terrace, UCB 127.

The proposed tuition schedule is available at www.hawaii.edu/offices/aa/tuition.html.

March 7, 2016

Online License Renewals for Businesses and Professionals

The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) announced that more than 9,900 Hawaii professionals may now renew their licenses online at pvl.ehawaii.gov/mypvl. Professionals able to renew online for this cycle include:

• Architects
• Land Surveyors
• Landscape Architects
• Professional Engineers

This program is part of DCCA's effort to implement efficient online services for businesses and professionals. During the last renewal cycle which concluded on January 31, 2016, more than 27,700 professionals, including doctors, dentists, accountants, and pharmacists renewed their licenses online.

Instructions for completing the online renewal were mailed to each current license holder. The deadline to renew for this group is April 30, 2016. The service is one of many online services for citizens and businesses offered through the state's official website, www.ehawaii.gov.

January 26, 2016

Video-On-Demand Channel for Legislative Content

The Hawaii State Legislature has worked with Olelo to create a video-on-demand (VOD) channel to make legislative and other government content available for the public to view. The primary use of the Hawaii State Public Access Network (HSPAN) will be as an access point for content produced by Capitol TV-informational briefings and hearings normally broadcasted on public access cable. The community will now be able to select recordings of many, if not all, hearings and conferences for viewing from an on-screen menu through Oceanic Time Warner's VOD channel, instead of waiting for a rebroadcast on the current linear channel.

HSPAN on demand (channel 50) is set to launch beginning February.

January 15, 2016 alt=

Weekly Dengue Informational Sessions in Hilo

Dengue information sessions will now be held in Hilo on a weekly basis by the Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) to provide updates and answer questions from the community. Attendees will learn about the prevalence, transmission, and symptoms of dengue fever, as well as outbreak response efforts, how to interpret case counts and maps, and the best ways to fight the bite. Sessions are slated for every Thursday at 11:30 a.m. in the State Office Building, Rooms A, B, and C at 75 Aupuni Street. The meetings are open to the public and will continue through February. For more information, please contact the DOH District Health office at 974-6001.

December 23, 2015 alt=

Public Hearings in Hilo with DLNR

DLNR leases lands in Hilo on Banyan Drive and in the Kanoelehua Industrial Area. Leases in both areas have expired or will expire in the next several years. In anticipation this, DLNR commissioned studies to provide information to assist with its planning for the future of these areas. The studies are available for public review and comment here: http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/ld/kanoelehua-and-banyan-drive-studies/

DLNR will also host public meetings for Banyan Drive and Kanoelehua Industrial Area. A brief presentation on the studies will be made and members of the public will be given the opportunity to ask questions and provide comments. Both meetings will be held at County of Hawaii- Aupuni Center 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 1 in Hilo.

Kanoelehua Industrial Area - January 15, 2016 at 9:00 a.m.
Banyan Drive - January 15, 2016 at 1:00 p.m.

December 3, 2015 alt=

DOH Schedules Public Hearing in Hilo

The Department of Health (DOH) will receive written comments and hold a public hearing on proposed changes to Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR), Chapter 11-62, Wastewater Systems. Proposed changes include prohibiting the installation of new cesspools and implementation of Act 120 which provides a temporary tax credit for upgrading qualifying cesspools to septic systems or connecting to a sewer system of qualifying cesspools. A list of all proposed changes may be found in the Rationale document that is available on the following website: http://health.hawaii.gov/wastewater/home/public_notice/

Hilo's meeting will be on December 18, 2015 at 5pm at the Hawaii District Health Office - Hilo, Conference Room, 1582 Kamehameha Avenue

Persons desiring to speak are asked to submit one copy of their statement before or at the hearing. Written statements will also be accepted until 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 22, 2015, at the Wastewater Branch, Environmental Management Division, State Department of Health, 919 Ala Moana Boulevard, Room 309, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96814 or via email at wwb@doh.hawaii.gov.

Copies of the proposed rules and documents explaining the proposed changes are available at:

Department of Health, District Health Office, 1582 Kamehameha Avenue or online at http://health.hawaii.gov/wastewater/home/public_notice/

For more information or if you have special needs due to disability that will aid you in inspecting and/or commenting on the public notice and related information, please contact Sina Pruder at the above address or at (808) 586-4294 (Voice) at least seven (7) calendar days before the comment deadline. For those who use a TTY/TDD, please call Sprint Relay Hawaii at 1-711 or 1-877-447-5991. If warranted, DOH may hold a public hearing on the application, after receipt of related documents and written comments, if any.

For more information on HAR 11-62 amendments, please contact the Wastewater Branch at (808) 586-4294.

September 1, 2015

Hilo's Public Hearing on the Transfer of Oceanic Time Warner Cable's Hawaii Cable Television Franchises

The state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) Cable Television Division (CATV) is holding a public hearing in Hilo regarding the joint application filed by Charter Communications, Inc. and Time Warner Cable, Inc. (the parent company of Oceanic Time Warner Cable) for approval of the indirect transfer of control of Oceanic's cable television franchises from TWC to Charter.

Date: Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2015
Time: 4:30 p.m.
Location: Aupuni Center Conference Room 101 Pauahi Street, Hilo

If anyone is unable to attend in person, written comments may be emailed to cabletv@dcca.hawaii.gov, faxed to (808) 586-2625, or mailed to:

Cable Television Division
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
P.O. Box 541
Honolulu, HI 96809

In order to satisfy mandated procedural deadlines, all written comments must be filed with DCCA-CATV by Friday, Sept. 25, 2015, 4:30 p.m.

August 27, 2015

Driver's License Test Now Available in Simplified Chinese

The State Department of Transportation announced that the written driver's license test is now offered in Simplified Chinese. The test was already available in Traditional Chinese, and the translation into Simplified Chinese will accommodate and help more people learn the rules of Hawaii's roads. Applicants will still need to learn key symbols and words that are common on American roadways.

Driver's license exams are administered by County partners and are offered in Hilo at 349 Kapiolani St., phone 961-2222.

With this most recent translation, Hawaii's written driver's test is now available in 14 different languages including English, Hawaiian, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Chuukese, Ilocano, Japanese, Korean, Marshallese, Samoan, Spanish, Tagalog, Tongan and Vietnamese.

August 12, 2015

Hilo Students Win In Pedestrian Safety Poster Contest

Over the past six months, representatives of the Walk Wise Hawaii program have been teaching Hawaii's keiki how to be good pedestrians through its Kupuna Pledge Card program and pedestrian safety poster contest.

The education program consisted of onsite visits where children were taught the "Seven Tips to Safety" which addressed a variety of pedestrian safety best practices. After learning the Steps, each keiki was asked to draw a poster of one of two basic pedestrian safety rules: (1) always make eye contact with drivers while in a crosswalk and (2) always wear bright and reflective clothing while walking at night. Over 5,000 poster entries were received. Twenty posters were selected that best depicted good pedestrian practices and those twenty posters are now on display at the State Capitol as part of Pedestrian Safety Month in August.

In the category "Always wear bright or reflective clothing when walking at night", Hilo winners are Tevita L. of Waiakea Elementary, Caylyn M. of Chiefess Kapiolani Elementary, and Tia T. of Kaumana Elementary.

In the category "Always make eye contact with drivers while in the crosswalk", Hilo winners are Tayhani A. and Kaitlyn R. of Waiakea Elementary. Congratulations!

July 20, 2015

California Drought and Hawaii's Food Supply

The Hawaii Tribune Herald ran this informative article on how Hawaii could be affected by California's current drought, and what measures have and can be taken to mitigate effects here. View article

July 15, 2015

Hanohano Hawaii Kuauli

The 23rd Annual Hawaii Conservation Conference will take place early next month in Hilo. Many topics are relevant to our community). Please see details at http://www.hawaiiconservation.org/conference

The conference includes a free community event on August 5th at UH-Hilo. There will be free public access to the afternoon sessions with exhibits, live music, and great local food for sale featuring some of our most talented chefs. Please see these two links from the website for details on the day's events:

View website
View poster

June 8, 2015

Funds Released for Hilo Projects

Governor Ige recently informed me that his administration released funding for the following improvement projects:

Waiakea Elementary: playcourt covering and covered walkway to allow for PE classes and school events regardless of weather- $1,050,000. The estimated completion date is October 2016.

Waiakea High: batting cage facilities for both the baseball and softball programs- $450,000. The estimated completion date is July 2017.View full article

May 14, 2015

Waiakeawaena Construction to Begin

The Department of Education (DOE) recently informed me that campus construction projects will begin shortly. Building A's air conditioning will be replaced, and other repair and maintenance needs will be addressed. Although some noise is associated with this type of work, DOE officials intend to minimize any inconvenience as much as possible.

April 6, 2015

Honoring Team Hoku

It was an honor to sponsor a House Floor Presentation on April 1 to congratulate Team Hoku from the University Hawaii at Hilo for their win in the 2015 Microsoft Imagine Cup Pitch Video Challenge - Games category. The Microsoft Imagine Cup Competition is recognized as the premier global student technology competition where competitors are challenged to use technology to help solve tough problems, and the Pitch Video Challenge gives students a chance to pitch a project in a video, tell the story of their project, share their team goals and timelines, and explain what the overall effect would be. Congratulations to team members BRIAN HALL, THEODORE DEREGO, LUCAS DEREGO, and CASEY PEARRING. Associate Professor KEITH EDWARDS assisted Team Hoku as their faculty member, and students KRISTIN PEDERSON and KELLI YAMANE also supported the team by working on documentation aspects of the game. My colleagues were very impressed with their achievements! Read the House Resolution here: View full article

March 5, 2015

2015 HISAW Awards

The Hawaii Invasive Species Awareness Week (HISAW) Awards Ceremony took place on March 2nd at the State Capitol Auditorium. It was an honor to present the "Hottest Hotline Report to 643-PEST, 2015 Award" to Mr. Rick Yamamoto of the Hawaii Air National Guard.

In June of 2014, Mr. Yamamoto took quick action when he observed what was described as a 2-foot long, black lizard with a black tongue running across the pavement at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. He immediately photographed the animal and it was reported right away to the state Department of Agriculture (DOA) through its 643-PEST hotline. Thanks to this rapid response, Keevin Minami, DOA Land Vertebrate Specialist, was able to apprehend the 24" long juvenile water monitor lizard the next day, preventing a very harmful invasive species from escaping into Hawaii's environment. Please see my photo stream for event pictures.

February 11, 2015

Downtown Hilo Multimodal Master Plan

Efforts have recently started on The Downtown Hilo Multimodal Master Plan. This plan will present concepts and proposals for traffic circulation, parking, pedestrian streetscapes, and other features to implement the community's vision of a vibrant, walkable Downtown Hilo. The Project Team is led by consultant SSFM International and includes local and national experts on walkability, mobility, and complete streets concepts. Community participation is very important to the process and input will be invited through community meetings, which will include presentations and interactive discussions. Focused community and stakeholder engagement will provide input on the project and inform the planning process. Some of the stakeholder groups to be engaged in the process are downtown businesses and landowners, event hosts, community advocates, visitor industry representatives, and numerous community members and organizations invested in the future of Downtown Hilo. The public may sign up for email notifications about the project at downtownhilo@hawaiicounty.gov.

February 3, 2015

Safe Routes to School Workshop at Keaukaha Elementary

The State Department of Transportation will hold a Safe Routes to School (SRTS) informational workshop on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2015 from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Keaukaha Elementary School. Community leaders, school officials, health and transportation professionals, law enforcement officers, parents and neighbors who are interested in the implementation of SRTS strategies at all schools statewide are invited to participate. These workshops are offered free of charge with lunch provided.

Communities around the country are using SRTS programs to make it safer and more appealing for children to walk and bicycle to school. Federal funding is available for states to establish programs.

To register, go to http://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/srts/ and click on the link under Upcoming Workshops, or contact Tara Lucas at 808-692-7696, or e-mail saferoutestoschool@hawaii.gov.

October 29, 2014

CIP Funds Released for HCC and UHH

I received notice on October 23rd that Capital Improvement Project (CIP) funds will be released for work at the following locations:
• Hawaii Community College: Hale Kea/IT Academic Computing
• UH-Hilo Art Building and Art Labs & Offices
• various buildings at UH-Hilo for deferred maintenance

October 29, 2014

Congratulations to Lisa Ishimoto!

Waiakea High School senior Lisa Ishimoto is one of six statewide winners of an essay contest. The contest's theme was "How to Inspire Others to Volunteer", and I was privileged to join Chief Justice Park Recktenwald and others in honoring Lisa and her fellow winners at the State Supreme Court on October 23, 2014. For more details please visit:View full article

October 17, 2014

Hilo Intermediate School Construction

Construction will soon begin for temporary facilities on the Hilo Intermediate School campus. On October 14th, the State Department of Education informed me that the necessary contract has been awarded in the amount of $513,000, and that every effort will be made to minimize disruption and disturbance while work is being done.

October 9, 2014

Contract Awarded for Waiakea High's Gym

Hurricane hardening is the process in which a building is reinforced to be more resistant to hurricanes. The State Dept. of Education recently notified me that a contract for $471,000 has been awarded, and hurricane hardening for Waiakea High School's gym will be initiated soon.

October 7, 2014

Money Released for Dept. of Ag- Hilo

I received notice that Capital Improvement Project (CIP) funds will be released for the Department of Agriculture's Hilo Plant Industry Facility, greenhouse and other buildings. $156,000 is earmarked for repairs and improvements/ design and construction.

September 5, 2014

State Data Book 2013

The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) has released the 2013 edition of the State of Hawaii Data Book. The resource is available on DBEDT's website and may be downloaded in whole or in part as either PDF or Excel files.

The state's Data Book is the most comprehensive statistical book about Hawaii in a single compilation. With more than 800 data tables, it covers a broad range of statistical information in areas such as population, education, labor, energy, business enterprises, government, tourism and transportation. It has been consistently produced for 46 years. Please visit: View full article

August 29, 2014

Hilo All-Stars Win 2014 PONY League World Series

Congratulations to champions Dallas Duarte, Joseph Jarneski, Jaisten Cabatbat, Trayden Tamiya, Reese Mondina, David Nakamura, Micah Bello, Ryan Ragual, Kahale Huddleston Jr., Eric Riveira, Bryce Furuli, Samuel Kahapea, Curren Inouye, Zachary Riveira, and Noah Kalaola-Richardson.

Mahalo to Head Coach Stacey Jarneski and assistants Troy Tamiya, Duke Waiki, and Darren Tagawa, and all team family members and supporters for guiding these young athletes to this prestigious victory!

August 14, 2014

Phase II Construction at Waiakea High School Track

The Department of Education (DOE) informed me that work on Waiakea High's track and field facilities- Phase II will begin soon. The work contract has been awarded, and DOE and school officials will discuss logistics before construction starts to ensure minimal disruption.

May 23, 2014

Honouliuli Internment Camp

For more than ten years, the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii (JCCH) has worked to educate the public on the history of Honouliuli and the internment of Japanese Americans in Hawaii. A recent draft study reaffirms that Honouliuli, as the longest operating World War II Japanese American internment and POW camp, represents a unique chapter in American history and a lesson in civil liberties and the U.S. Constitution.

There will be a series of National Park Service (NPS) community meetings throughout the State to discuss the recommendation that Honouliuli be added to the National Park System as a national historic site or national monument. Hilo's meeting will be on Wednesday, June 4th from 6pm to 8pm at the Hawaii Japanese Center. If you are unable to attend this NPS meeting, you may participate in their virtual meeting on Tuesday, June 17th from 10 am to 12 noon (Hawaii). Access information will be posted at www.nps.gov/pwro/honouliuli.

Please contact JCCH at park@jcch.com or by calling (808) 945-7633 if you have any questions or need additional information.

March 24, 2014

Improvements Coming to DOH Waiakea Complex

$460,000 was recently released for repair to the Dept. of Health Waiakea Complex roof and for other improvements. Most of the structures are made of wood and have extensive termite damage and are more than 50 years old. In addition $200,000 in design and construction funds were released for Kulani Correctional Facility (KCF). The funds are for renovations that will allow minimum-security male inmates to reoccupy KCF.

March 5, 2014

Funding for Hilo Intermediate School

$500,000 in design funds were released for the replacement and renovation of the campus PE locker room and shower facilities. Hilo Intermediate is one of several schools throughout the state to receive capital improvement projects (CIP) money. The complete list is available here: View full article

February 6, 2014

2014 National Water Quality Initiative for Hilo Bay

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is accepting applications for the National Water Quality Initiative for Hilo Bay. The application deadline for this initiative is March 21, 2014. Funding will be dedicated to address specific water quality issues on qualified agricultural land, which includes forest land.

In 2013, NRCS obligated $346,684 to contracts for improvement of water quality from animal feeding operations. In 2014, there is an allocation of $361,000 to address water quality degradation natural resource concerns for eligible agricultural producers on eligible lands. Eligible lands include cropland, pasture, range, non-industrial private forest lands and animal feeding operations on farmsteads. Interested applicants should contact Kori Hisashima, District Conservationist at the NRCS Hilo Field Office at (808) 933-8359. Visit www.pia.nrcs.usda.gov for more information.

January 30, 2014

Building E at Kapiolani School

The Department of Education (DOE) informed me that improvements to Kapiolani School's Building E will begin soon. The work contract has been awarded, and DOE and school officials will discuss logistics before construction starts to ensure minimal disruption.

January 22, 2014

Read-Aloud at Kapiolani Elementary

Good Beginnings Alliance arranged a very special day for me on December 17, 2013. I visited two classes at Kapiolani Elementary for a Read-Aloud session, and read two book selections. Please see my Photo Stream for our group picture. Mahalo to Ms. Miyasato (teacher), Kimberly, Rindi & Geoli (staff), and students Griffin, Samuel, Noa, Jack, Daisy, Saraiah, Amelia, Krisyina, and Landon.

January 9, 2014

Hilo's Main Street Matters

January 6, 2014 was a very exciting day in Downtown Hilo. I was fortunate to join the community's kick-off for area's makeover made possible through the "Main Street Matters" contest by Benjamin Moore. Please read more here:View full article

December 16, 2013

Panaewa Alii Football Team

Congratulations to the Panaewa Alii Football Team who left the night of December 5th to compete at the Pop Warner Super Bowl in Florida. These young men, their families, coaches and supporters overcame significant challenges to make this trip a reality. Hilo is so very proud of them! Read more here: View full article

November 7, 2013

Family Medicine Residency Program

The Hawaii Island Family Medicine Residency program has met the requirements for a 2-year accreditation, effective July 1, 2014. The program expects to attract candidates interested in the field of Family Medicine alongside a team of pharmacists, nurses, nurse practitioners and psychologists. The first class of four residents will be welcomed in the summer. For more information, please access this link:View full article

November 6, 2013

Waiakea High Track and Field

Significant progress has been made on Waiakea High's track & field. Money for this project was included in House Bill 547 which I introduced in 2011 along with former State Representative Jerry Chang. When completed, this facility will be shared with other schools and the community.

October 10, 2013

Hoomohala Awards Banquet

Hawaii Island Workforce & Economic Development Ohana (HIWEDO) held its 4th Annual Hoomohala Awards Banquet on October 5, 2013 at Hilo's Imiloa Astronomy Center. Winners in four categories were recognized for their efforts towards putting people with unique abilities to work. The banquet coincided with October being National Disability Employment Awareness Month- a campaign that raises awareness about disability employment issues and celebrates the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities. It was an honor to present certificates on behalf of the State House of Representatives to each of the four winners. Congratulations to Hawaiian Springs, LLC; Hamakua Health Center, Inc.; Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home; and Department of Labor & Industrial Relations - Workforce Development Division- Hawai'i Island. Please see my photo stream for event coverage.

August 15, 2013

Construction to Begin at Waiakea High School

The Dept. of Education (DOE) recently informed me that construction for water service upgrades at Waiakea High will be initiated soon. The work contract has been awarded, and the DOE will work with WHS administration to begin the necessary steps for this project's completion. While some disruption and disturbance are expected during construction work, I was assured that best efforts will be made to minimize inconveniences.

August 7, 2013

Hawaii Youth Challenge Academy

I received notice that $5.9 million has been released for the Youth Challenge Academy at Keaukaha Military Reservation. Construction will be for upgrades and improvements to benefit the student cadets in this important program. For more information on Youth Challenge, please visit View full article

June 25, 2013

Honoring UH-Hilo's Team Poliahu

Congratulations to UH-Hilo's Team Poliahu, 2013 Microsoft U.S. Imagine Cup Champions! Their application "Help Me Help" captured the judges' highest marks for innovation in disaster reporting and response. Team members were recognized by university officials and lawmakers for this incredible achievement; I presented a certificate on behalf of the State House. Best wishes as Team Poliahu prepares for the worldwide finals in Russia. For comprehensive video coverage, please access: View full article

June 21, 2013

Governor Announces Funding for Waiakea High & Waiakeawaena

The Governor released $134.7 million for repairs and improvements at Hawaii's schools, including Waiakea High and Waiakeawaena Elementary. $500,000 is available for Waiakea High's track and field facilities, and $350,000 for ADA accessibility at Waiakeawaena's playground. For a complete, statewide listing please access this link: View full article

June 21, 2013

Waiakea High's Isaiah Jumila

Isaiah received a travel scholarship from the Pacific & Asian Affairs Council for a 2013 summer program in China. He and his fellow scholars were recognized at a June 5th reception on the UH-Manoa campus. Isaiah's accomplishment was acknowledged by the State House at the event. Congratulations!

May 7, 2013

Welcoming Waiakeawaena's Band

Waiakeawaena Elementary's band performed at the State Capitol on Wednesday, May 1st. Led by veteran musician James Kudo, these young students brought smiles to everyone who saw them during their visit. They each received a congratulatory certificate from the House of Representatives. Also, one of my office staff and my son were former students of one of the parent chaperones. Please see my photo gallery for pictures of this fun event.

April 16, 2013

Lanakila & Pomaikai Homes Funding

Governor Abercrombie informed me on April 5 that funds will be released for the following Capital Improvement Projects (CIP): Lanakila Homes, renovation of existing buildings- $7.5 million, and Pomaikai Homes, ADA compliance- $217,858. I am looking forward to seeing the results after construction is completed, and am optimistic these projects will have a positive effect on Hilo's workforce.

March 27, 2013

Funding for Waiakea High School Facilities

On March 22, 2013 the Governor announced the release of $26.2 million for numerous public school facilities across the State, including Waiakea High School (WHS). WHS will receive funding for design and construction for softball field improvements that include dugouts, bleachers and scoreboards. The press release is available here: View full article