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Harry Kim <br />County <br />ffirr <br />Wil Okabe <br />lanagnig "'Vector <br />Barbara J. Kossow <br />Deputy A lanagIng Director <br />25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553 <br />KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokalale Hwy., Bldg C • Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740 <br />(808) 323-4444 • Fax (808) 323-4440 <br />February 2, 2018 <br />Senator Mike Gabbard, Chair <br />Committee on Agriculture and Environment <br />Hawaii State Capitol, Room 224 <br />Honolulu, HI 96813 <br />Dear Chair Gab <br />ard and Comrnittee Members: <br />Re: SB 2398 Relating to Creating a Farmers Market/SNAP Matching <br />Program <br />Hearing Date: 02/05/18 — 1:15 pm; Conference oom 224 <br />Thank you for this op <br />ortunity to support SB 2398. <br />It is my understanding that 2398 proposes to build on a Big Island pilot <br />program that was launched by our local Food Basket and food retailer KTA. By <br />providing funds that can only be used to purchase locally -grown produce, food stamp <br />recipients are incentivized to buy healthy fruits and vegetables; local farmers gain new <br />customers and make more money; and more food dollars stay in the local economy. <br />I think this is a program that should be encouraged, and I hope you will act <br />favorably on SB 2398. <br />Respectfully submitted, <br />Harry Kim <br />Mayor, County of Hawaii <br />County of Ilawal'i is an Equa Opporiuniiy Provider and Frnployer. <br />