Report of the Cost of Government Commission 2014-2015

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RECOMMENDATION: Improve efficiencies in the Hele On Bus system by identifying redundancies or unnecessary overlap in the current routing and scheduling system, and add service in underserved communities. For example, Mountain View, Pahoa and Pahala are served by one bus route; the very popular Mauna Kea State Park and the airports are without service. RECOMMENDATION: Explore use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and mobile tracking system apps to provide riders with real time updates which will enhance the quality of the Hele On system. For example, the City and County of Honolulu has successfully implemented "Da Bus" app which could be used as a model for Hawaii County. MAYOR/MANAGING DIRECTOR RECOMMENDATION: Continue to improve County communication with public through continued enhancements to County website, use of social media and presentations at periodic community meetings scheduled around the island. RECOMMENDATION: Regularly update the County's website to provide easy - to -find links to the professional audits, reviews and plans that guide County decision making. Examples include the federally mandated 20 -year transportation plans and the International Association of Assessing Officers Technical Assistance Report Evaluating Property Tax Policies and Administrative Practices in Hawaii County (March 5, 2012). PARKS & RECREATION RECOMMENDATION: Millions of dollars are at stake as the County has invested in family friendly parks and recreation centers, yet fire ants and spiders pose a very significant danger to these facilities. Create and fund three (3) permanent positions dedicated to protecting our County parks, beaches and recreational facilities from fire ants and spiders. RECOMMENDATION: Explore combining the East and West Hawaii County Bands. PLANNING RECOMMENDATION: Expand list of designers, lumber yards and contractors approved for the package homes "pre -approval" program. 0