2010-02-18 Veteran Advisory Committee Minutes

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Veterans Advisory Committee Page 4 February 18, 2010 Mr. Lum said he doesn't know about losing funding, but he will check with OVS. Mr. Nishimoto asked him to check because he has a feeling these funds may be used at Kaneohe Veterans Cemetery. EX- OFFICIO MEMBERS None ANNOUNCEMENTS Homeless Veterans Ms. Brulee- Wilson announced the annual Outreach Event for Homeless Veterans will be held on May 28, 2010. She invited members to attend the planning meetings and asked them to inform their members about event and let them know everyone is welcome to be a part of the planning committee. Ms. Brulee- Wilson also requested members inform any veterans that could benefit from attending this event. During event they will have food, showers and lots of information. Proiect Sarah — Homeless Housing Proiect Mr. Rex Shaffer, Coordinator of the "Sarah Project" shared information about a proposed housing project to help veterans. He will be going in front of the Hawaii County Council soon, possibly on March 18th and is requesting support from veterans. (He distributed folders with information to members) Mr. Shaffer explained the "Sarah Project" and said he can also help with solar lighting project for cemetery. He said this housing project will help solve problems relating to the homeless and especially wants to help homeless veterans. Feels we have lost the unity and separated so much that we have strength only in our little sections. This project brings the state, county and federal government along with groups like veterans associations together. The last failed housing project he is familiar with needed 40 million dollars just on infrastructure (sewers and streets). This project doesn't need any sewers, it surpasses every certification, is completely self sufficient and it makes a profit after everything is complete. Every month the parties involved with project will receive funds back through aqua farming, Day Care, etc. Health care will be provided and these homes have no utility bills. Cost would be $25,000 to $30,000 for a 2 to 3 bedroom home. (Walls are about 20" thick, Roman Art technology combined with mid - eastern dome technology, lasts hundreds of years, earthquake proof, and hurricane proof.) It uses the natural soil, seven parts cinder, one part blue rock cinder, one part cement and one part water. It's an amazing technology used thousands of years. Mr. Shaffer shared his personal feelings about how he broke his commitment to the military, how helping veterans helps him to heal and commended veterans for their service.