2005-04-21 Veteran Advisory Committee Minutes

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Veterans Advisory Committee Page 5 April 21, 2005 should instead be we're trying to do this and we're trying to get $100,000. The Chairman told us you better get things done or the money will be lost. Chairman Kaoiwi explained that he knows how the state works and that is why he is concerned about funds lapsing and getting pulled elsewhere. Reforestation Project Mr. Highley reported that some of the trees and plants are doing well and some are not, but it's just an experiment. Jeff Knowles will be in charge of the funds for the fencing project. Dr. Stevens reported that the $47,000 grant (75% of fencing cost) has been received. A request has been made to Kukio for the other $16,000 or 25 %. There has been some indication that they are favorable to that request. He was happy to shared that he received a copy of a letter from Representative Ed Case to the Chairman of the Congressional Appropriations Committee which includes in his request with many items, the following: A request of $75,000 towards the Reforestation Project at the West Hawaii Veterans Cemetery III, island of Hawaii, a Community based native tree reforestation project sponsored by the Kona Soil and Water Conservation District and Veterans groups. The funds would help fence out feral goats and extend the irrigation system for young trees that will eventually provide habitat for native birds. Dr. Stevens also said there are 70 plants from about 20 different species that were planted and all except 2 species are doing very well. WHVCDEA — West Hawaii Veterans Cemetery Development and Expansion Association Mr. Highley reported that they received their 5016 tax - exempt status and are still planning to sponsor a golf tournament to help improve the cemetery with items such as cups, trees, maintenance, beautification and memorials. Currently gathering prizes for the tournament. Organization doesn't want to be responsible for building a pavilion or items that could be accomplished through the VA. Accessible Portable Restroom — Removed (Request to Have it brought back) Mr. Highley said that he has seen the vendor (Kona Lua or whomever is contracted by the County) come to the cemetery and leave without cleaning portable restroom. Unsure if their responsibility was to clean it, pump it out or just check it. He was going to complain that they weren't cleaning, however, the entire accessible restroom is gone and now we're back to just the small portable. With Memorial Day Ceremonies soon approaching, requesting the disabled portable restroom be put back at the cemetery. VETERANS DAY PARADE Mr. Wilson reported that he has nothing to add until he hears from the various organizations about insurance that could be used for a possible Veterans Day Parade.