2007 CAFR Part 1 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Hawaii is the cruise ship industry. Cruise ship visitors for the first half of 2007 nearly doubled over the same period in 2006. 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,while direct employment is over 500. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Natural 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 remain strong. 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,planning,and other issues affecting the quality of life in the County. Public Works—Preliminary and construction work continued on several West Hawaii road projects including Kuakini Highway and various connector roads. Construction of intersection curb cuts and facilities upgrades to meet Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)requirements is an on-going project. Construction was completed on the Scotty White Bridge and several other smaller projects. In addition,the County is investigating using Community Facility Districts to help speed up construction of roadways by developers in West Hawaii. Planning—The Planning Department continued the Community Development Plan(CDP) process for the districts of North and South Kona,and Puna. The CDP process began for North and South Kohala in an effort that has become the most comprehensive planning process in the State of Hawaii. Open Space—The Public Access,Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation fund was established last year. The fund can be used for acquiring land for public outdoor recreation and education,preservation of historic or culturally important land areas,protection of natural resources,preservation of forests,beaches,coastal areas,natural beauty and agricultural lands or for the protection of watershed lands to preserve water quality and water supply. In the current year,the voters approved an ordinance to transfer two percent of real property tax collections to this fund each year. -3 -