HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0989.059 2018-2020 P/Counc (
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a « � COMMUNITY ALLIANCE PARTNERS (CAP)
A coalition of Hawaii Island's homeless service providers,government representatives and community stakeholders working together in
partnership to end homelessness.
DATE: July 09,2020
TO: Hawaii County Council
FROM: Shirley David for members of the West Hawaii Faith Based Hui to End Family Homelessness,Community
Alliance Partners
RE: Testimony on Bill 179 SUPPORT
As members of West Hawaii Faith Based Hui to End Family Homelessness,we have been studying options
to house homeless families and increase affordable housing for Hawaii Island's families. Many families are
only one paycheck away from losing their homes due to the high cost of housing,illness or job loss.The
COVID-19 pandemic has further complicated the situation.We need more entry level and transitional
housing. Young families need low cost housing while they save for down payments on more permanent
larger homes. Homeless families need a first step back to home ownership.Others wish to simplify their
living style,to live more lightly on the land,or to free up larger homes for those who need them.
Non-profits and faith-based organizations who work with homeless families wish to use dome houses,
container houses and factory-built kits to build supportive communities which fall under Appendix Y of
the code.A pilot project for homeless families being placed in dome shelters,has already been
completed in Kaneohe, HI.
One of our member families is working towards providing a tiny home community on farm property
where owners will be able to learn farming techniques.The tiny home builders are building structures
from containers and on trailers that cost$40,00-$60,000,well under the cost of an average workforce
site-built home. With the passage of bill 179 appendix L there will be clear guidelines and permanent
foundation options for tiny houses.
We understand the opposition to Appendix Y.Site built homes provide skilled union jobs for our workers.
We do not think that these lower cost options will have a major impact on these jobs but instead they will
reach a segment of our community who cannot afford this type of home.Agriculture and livestock
operations will be strengthened when families can live on site for easier access,lessening transportation
difficulties within our large county.Stable housing lowers adverse childhood experiences and increases
the health of the next generation.
We applaud the Department of Public Works for their hard work over the last 18 months to revamp the
code. It is time to adopt it.
We strongly urge you to adopt Bill 179 including both Appendix L and Appendix Y.
Elizabeth Murph,Catholic Charities Hawaii
Heidi Teraoka, Neighborhood Place of Puna
Amy Moore,Community Member
Kathy Gedeon and Shirley David,St. Michael the Archangel Parish
Comm. No. q i q.59
Ref. To: P Coma
Ref. Date iinr 2020