COM 0742.019 1996-1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

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district on the Big Island. The Community Policing Program has proven itself to be highly effective in curtailing crime and has been well received in our Big Island communities. Despite the loss of State funding for a full-time position of a DUI coordinator, we are continuing our efforts to enforce the law and apprehend drivers under the influence of alcohol and drugs. During the last calender year, for example, Big Island police arrested 755 motorists for drunk driving, a 20 percent increase over the 632 arrested in 1996. A full-time DUI coordinator's position, which is not included in our budget proposal, would cost $47,650. The State Supreme Court's decision on privatization in the Konno vs. County of Hawaii case may have the most serious impact on our future budgets. As a result of a settlement agreement between the County and SHOPO, we may continue with our cellblock security contract until June 30, 1998. As of July 1, 1998 we must have civil servants in place to assume the duties previously done by contract. Total estimated costs, which are not included in our budget, is $900,000. Our capital improvement projects schedule for fiscal year 1998-99 includes expanding the cellblock in Hilo at an estimated cost of nearly $1.4 million. Because our present cellblock in Hilo can hold only five prisoners, we have, at times, been forced to double or triple -bunk inmates. Expansion of the cellblock is essential to comply with the American Correctional Standards. We will be awarded $300,000 in CDBG funds for our cellblock -3-