Aloha everyone! Once again, it is time for the monthly update from our office.
HAWAII COUNTY COUNCIL MEMBERS SWORN IN
On Dec. 3, I was humbled to again take the oath of office as your council member for the 2018–2020 term. Thank you for your continued support and confidence in me to represent the people of District 9. I am excited to work with my fellow colleagues on the Hawaii County Council as we focus on the work ahead of us in making Hawaii Island the best place to live, work and play for generations to come.
We do have our work cut out for us regarding the ever-challenging County budget, however I am optimistic that with this balanced group of Council members, we will work together to consider the voice of our constituents’ island wide as we aim for a fiscally responsible County government. As always, feel free to contact either of my offices if you have any questions or concerns. I will continue to build the bridges to better serve you all.
BILL 108 IS NOW AN ORDINANCE – VACATION RENTALS
The infamous Bill 108 has passed through the Hawaii County Council with draft No. 7 on Nov. 20. It is important to note that although this measure has been adopted, the specific process is currently being crafted by the County Department of Planning for the effective date of April 1, 2019. We do understand that some residents and vacation rental owners alike may not be satisfied with the specific outcomes of Bill 108, however we are cautiously optimistic that we can continue to work toward creating a process that will benefit our island community going forward. Continue to stay informed as we eagerly await the unfolding of the new County of Hawaii vacation rental regulations.
WAIMEA REGIONAL SAFETY STUDY BY THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
The second of four meetings was held week in the Waimea School cafeteria. The first meeting, held in October, was an introduction to the Planning and Environmental Linkage (PEL) study and its process. It also included community discussion on what they feel needs to be improved or changed within Waimea town. Last week more discussions were had on the development of a ‘Purpose and Need Statement.’
Other groups in attendance included DLNR, State Historic Preservation Division, State DOT, COH Public Works, COH Mass Transit Agency and COH Planning Department. A great deal of conversation revolved around the community’s desire to “Keep Waimea Waimea,” while working to address our traffic congestion. As the community and population have grown, and thereby a traffic increase, the congestion has gotten worse. One person noted that Waimea has always been a crossroads, even in ancient times, because of its location. Conversations included alternative routes as well as adjusting traffic flow patterns that might be helpful. A lot of ideas were given and posed for alternative transportation methods, and a great need for public transportation; all of which should be considered in context of each other for the future of Waimea.
The next two community meetings will be scheduled in early 2019 and will include identifying and narrowing down key alternatives to move this matter forward.
As always, it continues to be a great privilege to serve as your Councilman. Wishing each one of you a very Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous 2019!