County considers tightening public drinking rules
County considers tightening public drinking rules
The Hawaii County Council will consider tightening its rules on public drinking today in response to an apparent loophole in the county code.
The proposed amendment would add public parking lots to the list of areas where drinking is not allowed.
North Kona Councilwoman Karen Eoff, who introduced the bill under consideration, said the law is too ambiguous when it comes to public parking areas, making it harder to enforce.
Police are supportive of the proposed change, Capt. Richard Sherlock said. He said public drinking can become a safety issue and a public nuisance if not dealt with.
Drinking is already prohibited along public roads and rights-of-way, school grounds, tennis courts, swimming pools, and about 40 other public parks and facilities.
Still, the county has a long list of parks where alcohol consumption is allowed, at least under certain circumstances.
With a permit, drinking is allowed at 37 parks and facilities from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Drinking without permits is allowed at another 40 parks and facilities between either the hours of 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. or 6 p.m. and 10 p.m., depending on the location.
Pilot program may certify nurseries for halting spread of invasive species
Big Island nurseries could soon receive a seal of approval from groups trying to control the spread of invasive species.
As part of a pilot program, the Big Island Invasive Species Committee will provide “plant pono” certifications to nurseries that follow certain procedures to prevent the importation of unwanted plants and pests.
The effort is being funded by a $114,000 U.S. Forest Service grant to be issued this summer as well as funding from the Hawaii Invasive Species Council.
The first certifications, which BISC is calling endorsements, will likely be issued in early 2014, said Springer Kaye, committee manger.
The voluntary program may be expanded statewide. It’s only being implemented currently in Hawaii County.
Criteria are still being developed, but participating nurseries will be expected to demonstrate best management practices for controlling pests as well as avoiding importation of certain plants.