2004-04-15 Veteran Advisory Committee Minutes

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Veterans Advisory Committee Page 4 April 15, 2004 Mr. Boss Hanato said that he attended a burial on Tuesday and the weeds were overgrown, however, yesterday maintenance employees did a really good job and cleaned cemetery. Mr. Highley requested approval from the committee to have headstones removed. He also asked if the Department of Parks and Recreation would consider accepting applications from various veterans organizations such as American Legion, Korean War Veterans and DAV to become "Friends of the Cemetery" under the "Friends of the Park" program to assist with improving the cemetery. Director Engelhard responded that could be worked out, however, the department would need a description of the work planned prior to acceptance of the agreement. She also explained that it's not a blanket approval. In response to a question from Mr. Highley relating to fundraising, Director Engelhard explained that if funds raised are to purchase a particular item for the cemetery, monies stay with the organization until the amount needed is raised and then the organization either purchases and donates item or donates funds to P &R to purchase a particular item. Authority to Move Headstones Following a discussion on who has the authority to move headstones. Mr. Pavao recommended checking with Corporation Counsel. (Following the meeting, it was determined that P &R has the authority to give permission to move headstones. See sample of attached letter sent to families.) Canopy Director Engelhard reported that a replacement canopy will be purchased soon. Graveliners Mr. Highley reported that Major Mitsuyoshi sent an update that the liners are a priority. Graveliners must be designed, then reviewed, advertised for bids and then a contractor selected before liners can be constructed. This process is time consuming and plans are to start using graveliners in the second burial phase. Mr. Nishimoto described concrete liners are similar to presentation made by Mr. Paris on slick foam, but should be an improved method. Mr. Nishimoto also said that HB 1800 funds $300,000 for West Hawaii Cemetery improvements which should be enough to build a committal shelter - $25,000 for design and $275,000 for construction. Again requested that veterans organizations write to the governor to request that she release the funds. Mr. Callahan requested that funds be used wisely and not overspent in design and not have enough left to complete construction. He reiterated importance of funds being used for West Hawaii Cemetery only and spent wisely.