2006-06-15 Veteran Advisory Committee Minutes

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Veterans Advisory Committee Page 6 June 15, 2006 accelerate planting plans recently because of the plant supplier's need. Received much cooperation from P &R staff especially June Luke, and including Dee Ann and James. Vice Chairman Stevens said that (10) big trees were planted beside the road today for the first large tree planting. He invited people to join them on Saturday for another planting project, which will begin at 9 am and lunch to follow at 11 am. Hoe Ram Chairman Highley asked about the possibility of obtaining a hoe ram for West Hawaii as discussed at last month's meeting. Director Engelhard responded that they will submit a budget request for a hoe ram attachment, and if possible will try to get it during this fiscal, but the deadline of June 5th has passed. The budget cycle starts in August and gets approved by February. If it's not possible this fiscal year, the next potential is in next year's budget - July 1, 2007. Another piece of equipment that will be requested next year is a Caterpillar Backhoe to dig graves in the new side of the cemetery. In the future we will need different equipment to maintain both separate sides of the cemetery. One with a hoe ram for the old side and one with Caterpillar treads for the new side, which will have grave liners. In summary, Director Engelhard said can't get a hoe ram right away, but will try as soon as possible. VETERANS CEMETERY I Pavilion - Open Wall for Viewing Chairman Highley asked the status of this item, which was discussed during the May 18th meeting. Director Engelhard said wall removal project will probably have to go out to bid, therefore, it gets put on the list with other projects. Since its not a critical matter (its critical only for viewing purposes during ceremonies which occur a couple times a year) not critical compared to the court case for ADA projects so its not going to happen right away. Chairman Highley asked if Mr. Kalua examined possible funding sources for this project. He will check and report at the next meeting. NEW BUSINESS VETERANS CEMETERY III - WEST HAWAII Gates - Locks Chairman Highley said that Keith Ribbentrop of OVS suggested he contact State Parks District Superintendent Glenn Taguchi. Mr. Glenn Taguchi told him that the State has (3) gates to be locked - 1) Kua Bay; 2) Kekaha Kai Beach Park; and 3) Old Kona Airport. He will be trying to contract a security company to lock those gates at 7:00 pm at night.