2005 CAFR Part 1 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Total visitors to Hawaii increased slightly compared to the prior year,with 1,278,713 arrivals in 2004. A developing source for bringing tourists to the island of Hawaii is the cruise ship industry. Over 300,000 cruise ship visitors are expected in 2005. Scientific Research and Development— Due largely to its unique geographic characteristics which has attracted scientists in fields of astronomy,meteorology,volcanology, and agriculture/aquaculture, Hawaii County has benefited economically by the significant investments made in scientific research. The total astronomy related capital investment on Mauna Kea exceeds$600 million and combined annual budgets are about$60 million. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the National Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority at Keahole,Kona are also major contributors to international research and the local economy. Agriculture— Forestry,nut and fruit orchards,and floral and vegetable farms have successfully replaced lands where sugar once grew. Demand for Kona coffee is improving and macadamia nut prices have been rising. Papaya remains the largest orchard crop. Agriculture makes a substantial contribution to the County's economy and produces a variety of goods for export as well as for local consumption. Major Initiatives For the Year During the year,the County focused on public works,public safety,planning,and other issues affecting the quality of life in the County. Public Works—The$35 million Puainako Street Extension was completed and opened during the year. Construction of intersection curb cuts and facilities upgrades to meet Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)requirements is an on-going project. Construction began on the Kawailani Street bridge and various road projects. Preliminary work on several West Hawaii road projects continued. Public Safety—The Police Department has a dedicated Ice Task Force to work exclusively on fighting crystal methamphetamine("Ice")in our communities. The department also has expanded its efforts in the targeting of illicit drug trafficking with a Drug Interdiction Task Force (DITF). This DITF is responsible for investigating drug smuggling through the airports and other venues. These officers who are Federally deputized to investigate,identify, and apprehend individuals and organizations involved in the smuggling of illicit drugs into the County of Hawai'i. Planning—The revised General Plan was passed by the County Council during the fiscal year. Real Property Taxes—During the fiscal year,the County Council approved significant changes to the real property tax laws. The changes offer relief for homeowners faced with rapidly increasing property values by limiting the increase in the market value of properties in the homeowners class to not more than 3%per tax year;by shortening the dedication period for non- -3 -