REP GOREDC 029 2022/11/01 (2020-2022)

Home

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS, RELATIONS, AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DATE: November 1, 2022 Re: Comm. No. 1065/Res. No. 593-22 PLACE: Council Chambers Hilo, Hawaii TIME: 9:30 a.m. Council Chair and Members Hawaii County Council Hilo, Hawaii 96720 Your Committee on Governmental Operations, Relations, and Economic Development,to which was referred Resolution No. 593-22, reports as follows: Resolution No. 593-22, transmitted by Council Member Ashley L. Kierkiewicz, via Communication No. 1065 dated October 17, 2022, strongly urging the Hawaii State Legislature, State Department of Transportation, and Department of Public Works to prioritize, fund, and complete critical road improvements in Puna. Also, requests collaborative prioritization to increase public safety, economic viability, and access for emergency vehicles through infrastructure improvements including the widening of Highway 130, extension of Railroad Avenue or Government Beach Road into Hilo, and the development of Puna connectivity and emergency access routes. Ms. Kierkiewicz introduced the resolution, explaining how she wanted a tool in place to make the State Legislature aware of the County's support for this issue. She stressed the importance of people in Puna being able to get to their jobs, school, recreation, and more. Several Council Members stated their support for the measure. Council Member Matt Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder said that improved internet and telephone connectivity would also alleviate some traffic congestion indicating that people have to drive from Puna to Hilo for many needs due to lack of connectivity. Committee Chair Heather Kimball concluded the discussion by stating that she happily supports the well-crafted resolution noting its inclusion of mass transit and multi-modal solutions in addition to work on the road. The vote was taken on the motion to move this measure to Council with a favorable recommendation passed with nine "ayes." GOREDC Report No. 29