HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0989.113 2018-2020 41 CONNECT POI T CHURCH
COUNTY CLERK
Mr.Aaron Chung, Chair COUNTY OF HAWAI'I
Hawai'i County Council RECEIVED
25 Aupuni Street Time II:13 API By
Hilo, HI 96720
Date JUL 2 1 ,2020
Dear Chair Chung,
I would like to submit this letter and written testimony in support of Bill 179.
Bill 179 as drafted, provides for the establishment of a framework that will align all of the construction
codes,and creates the administrative processes to promote efficiency and consistency. One example of this is the
proposed establishment of a single permit system that would replace the current multi-permit process that has
demonstrated to contribute to the challenges with expediting much needed building construction.
The economic recovery of our community and the construction of affordable housing are two critical
reasons to ensure our government policies and regulations to include our building codes are current,applicable,
and effective.The passage of Bill 179 is the first of many steps to be taken to addressing critical needs for our
community and improving government efficiency.
As proposed,Bill 179 will provide alternatives and options with housing solutions to include Appendix L,
Factory-Built Housing and Appendix Y,Tiny Homes. Both of these appendices demonstrate a recognition of,and
appreciation for progressive options to our island's housing crisis and the need to provide our residents with
attainable housing solutions. Given the current lack of inventory of affordable housing and the anticipated growth
of this deficit,it is imperative that we identify and employ a multitude of viable housing solutions to meet the
diverse and expansive needs of our residents. In particular,those households that are faced with financial
constraints that limit their options and place them at high risk for homelessness.
I commend and thank you and the entire County Council for your efforts with improving our government
processes that will also address our affordable housing crisis and put our community on the road to recovery.
I support and strongly encourage the passage of Bill 179 as written to include all proposed appendices and
look forward to participation and community engagement in the adoption of the Building and Residential Code s.
Sincerely,
Reverend Dion Kekoa Maeda
Senior Pastor Connect Point Church
Comm. No. qtaq.115
Ref. To: P/COURCi(
Ref. Date 1/12/2020