Letters 8-1-2012

Together we won’t

Animosity at its zenith

Regardless of the outcome of the override attempt, the veto of the geothermal initiatives put forth by council chairman Dominic Yagong is just another demonstration of the “together we can’t” position of the mayor.

I don’t understand the animosity the mayor has for the council but certainly he has little respect for the council’s actions as they represent the people.

Here seemed an opportunity to redirect funding to address a very specific problem, with no need to generate new revenue.

In fact, it would seem reasonable to seek a portion of the state’s allotment of geothermal revenues to conduct studies needed to better focus resolution on the reported illnesses of many Puna residents and addressing the well-worn mantra, it would create jobs. Houses don’t have to remain empty becoming an eyesore or degrading the neighborhood. Would it not be possible to move the housing or recycle parts of the structure once it is vacated?

It is a reasonable certainty that a generic emergency response and evacuation plan will not be suitable for the very specific potential hazard of a major release at the geothermal facility, from either sulfides, hydrocarbons, or something as yet unrevealed.

I would hope the next mayor, even if the incumbent is re-elected, would put aside any apparent fear of science and get advisers on staff to inform and explain to him the scientific basis behind so many of the major issues facing the Big Island.

There is no shortage of possible advisers on the island, as can be seen when informed presentations are made at council meetings.

Energy and agriculture are two key issues. Think of how much further ahead this county would be if energy initiatives had begun four years ago under the leadership of the mayor’s office. Think of the economic advancement this island would enjoy if energy costs were just 25 percent less.

Think of how important it is for you to vote.

Mike Reimer

Kailua-Kona