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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN GREDC 2020/10/20 2018-2020 Committee on Governmental Relations and Economic Development 29th Session Hawaii County Building 25 Aupuni Street Hilo, Hawai i October 20, 2020 CALL TO The regular meeting of the Committee on Governmental Relations and Economic ORDER: Development was called to order at 11:48 a.m., in the Council Chambers, Hilo, by Ms. Ashley L. Kierkiewicz, Chair. ROLL CALL: Present: Ms. Ashley L. Kierkiewicz, Chair Ms. Susan L. K. Lee Loy, Vice Chair Mr. Aaron S. Y. Chung, Member Ms. Maile Medeiros David, Member (via videoconference from Kona) Ms. Karen Eoff, Member (via videoconference from Kona) Mr. Matt Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Member Ms. Valerie T. Poindexter, Member Mr. Herbert M. "Tim" Richards, III, Member Ms. Rebecca Villegas, Member (via videoconference from Kona) STATEMENTS The Chair directed the Committee to proceed to the next order of business, FROM THE Statements from the Public on Agenda Items. PUBLIC ON (AGENDA ITEMS: (There were none.) COMMUNI- The Chair directed the Committee to proceed to the next order of business, CATIONS: Communications. Comm. 659.11: REQUESTS AN UPDATE FROM THE MAYOR'S OFFICE REGARDING THE ADMINISTRATION'S UPCOMING PLANS AND PENDING PROJECTS From Council Member Matt Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, dated October 1, 2020. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Mr. Clerk, I'm actually going to table this till the end of the discussion, we have Sherry Menor-McNamara joining us from Oahu. And so she's been waiting in WebEx for over an hour now. So I'd like to be able to accommodate her, it's going to be a very brief presentation. MR. BROWN: Could we have a motion to put it on the table, please? CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Sure. Can we have a motion to table? GREDC-29 October 20,2020 Vote on Motion: Ms. Poindexter moved to table Comm. 659.11 to the end to Table: of the agenda. Seconded by Ms. Lee Loy and carried by (Approved) the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Chung, David, Eoff, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Lee Loy, Poindexter, Richards, Villegas, and Chair Kierkiewicz—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Mr. Clerk, Communication 1104. Comm. 1104: REQUESTS A DISCUSSION WITH SHERRY MENOR-MCNAMARA, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF HAWAII, REGARDING THE RESTAURANT CARD PROGRAM TO ASSIST THE LOCAL ECONOMY From Council Member Susan L. K. Lee Loy, dated October 2, 2020. Motion to Close File: Ms. Lee Loy moved to close file on Comm. 1104. Seconded by Mr. Richards. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Ms. Lee Loy, go ahead. MS. LEE LOY: Thank you, Chair. In our folders, we have Communication 1104.1. It's a PowerPoint presentation, and I'd like to welcome Ms. Sherry Menor-McNamara. Sherry, are you there? As she gets ready there she is. Real quick, aloha Sherry, thank you for joining us. I just found this presentation really timely. Earlier today we had a presentation on Hawai i Island's use of the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) money, and this is another program that's being stood up and utilizing our CARES funding. Real brief introduction. Sherry is appointed the President, and Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Commerce for Hawaii in September of 2013. She is the youngest and the first female President and CEO of the Chamber of Hawaii in its 170 year history. So thank you so much for being here today, Sherry. And I got to point out,just because we had a cute discussion about High Schools. Ms. McNamara, Ms. Menor, is a proud alum of Waiakea High School. And so we're getting a few fist pumps here. Sherry please go ahead and take us through your presentation, and I'm sure we'll have a few questions regarding the use of this valuable card that is going out to our community. MS MENOR-MCNAMARA: Sure,thank you, to the County Council for having the opportunity to present to you. I will talk about the restaurant card program, Page 2 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 but I'd also like to talk about other state programs that are available for small businesses. I believe you have my presentation, and you know what? I have not used this tool WebEx, to share presentations, so I am going to have you read from the presentation, if that's okay? MS. LEE LOY: Yes, that's fine Sherry. We do have it in front of us. MS. MENOR-MCNAMARA: Great. (Note: At this time, President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Sherry Menor-McNamara came forward and provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. A copy of the PowerPoint is made part of the record, see Comm. 1104.1.) MS. MENOR-MCNAMARA: So any questions so far regarding the restaurant card program? If not I can talk about some of the additional resources that are available. MR. RICHARDS: I've got a question. MS. LEE LOY: Well, Sherry was asking if we had questions now, and I saw Mr. Richards. No I'll yield at this time. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Mr. Richards, go ahead. MR. RICHARDS: Okay, thank you, Chair. Question on the restaurant card, is that card a generic card, or does it have someone's name on it. MS. MENOR-MCNAMARA: It will have the person who's receiving name on it. It's a Hawaii Restaurant card name, Master Card, and it will have the recipient's name on that card. MR RICHARDS: So it can only be used by that person it's been issued to, correct? MS. MENOR-MCNAMARA: Correct. MR. RICHARDS: And the reason why I bring that up, is because Waimea we had Post Office boxes broken into. And one of the thoughts was, maybe it had to do with these cards coming out. So I just wanted to get out that it was a card specific for the people with their name on it. So thanks, Chair. I yield. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: An important point. Thank you, Mr. Richards. Ms. Poindexter. Sorry go ahead Sherry. Page 3 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 MS. MENOR-MCNAMARA: That's why I strongly urge restaurants to check the recipient's ID with the card. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you for that. Ms. Poindexter. MS. POINDEXTER: Yeah, hi Sherry. I just needed a clarification, because I was speaking with an owner of one of the eating places in Honoka`a Town. And some people came in with cards, and one person, he got the plate ready gave it to him and tried to swipe the card. And then it asked for a PIN number, and they couldn't figure it out. So he had to pay cash for it. So I found the slide where it says, you know, for the merchant category codes. So I did call the restaurant owner just now, and saying thatI also took a picture and showed him this slide. If he could check to see what his MCC is and go from there. Is that all they have to do? Because he was saying that if you would go to the Department of Health you could get all the list of restaurants, and then if they could have been notified that way. Because they're not knowing what to do when the card doesn't work. MS. MENOR-MCNAMARA: Yeah, exactly. So in order to be able to use that card, it does the merchants do have to fall under those four numbers to be able to accept the card. That's the way the card company that is being used, that's how it was configured. And so it's not under those categories, they can do—either one, it's not acceptable; or two,the restaurant will call their bank to see if they can change the code for this time period. As far as the PIN number, I suggest having whoever, you know, answered we have a call center email and phone number to see what the issue is. I know the PIN number it can be used either as a debit or credit card. And my understanding is, it can be run as a credit card to work. But the contact information is HRC o,cochawaii.org. And the phone number is 808-825-4904. MS. POINDEXTER: And is there any way possible way to get that list from Department of Health, and maybe getting some information out to the restaurants. Or is that too tedious or just too difficult to do? So that all restaurants and all communities, and neighborhoods would be able to utilize this opportunity. MS. MENOR-MCNAMARA: Yeah. So I know Hawaii Restaurant Association has been communicating to their membership, has done webinars. Food-A-Go- Go, it's a one stop website that list restaurants, they've also been communicating. But obviously to our memberships it's not all the restaurants. So we are looking at finding if we can get a comprehensive list, so we can communicate that to all the restaurants. So they can determine if they are qualified to accept the cards. MS. POINDEXTER: Yeah. According to this restaurant owner, Department of Health has that list. So that would be real helpful. So thank you, thank you for all you do for our island as well. Thank you. Aloha. I yield at this time. Page 4 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you, Ms. Poindexter. Anyone in Kona have questions or comments for Sherry? MS. DAVID: Not at this time, Chair. Thank you. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay, thank you. Sherry, really appreciate you taking the time to update us. And just wanted to confirm the cards are good between October 20'h and December 15'h is that right? MS. MENOR-MCNAMARA: Correct. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay, great. And then if there's any leftover funding in the program, I mean what's going to happen to that. Can folks expect to be re-upped, or does the rest of the money that's leftover go to unemployment? MS. MENOR-MCNAMARA: Our understanding is whatever is leftover and not used, will go to unemployment. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay, great. Thank you so much. And I hope it's okay, for us to call on you again, in the future for updates. We really appreciate all of your work on behalf of small business. MS. MENOR-MCNAMARA: Thank you, absolutely. Anytime for the island I come from. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: We appreciate that you're a Hilo girl. Thank you so much. MS. MENOR-MCNAMARA: Right. Thank you. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Take care. MS. MENOR-MCNAMARA: Bye. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Alright we have a motion on the floor to close file, all in favor please say "aye." Page 5 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 Vote on Comm. 1104: The motion to close file on Comm. 1104 was carried by Filed the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Chung, David, Eoff, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Lee Loy, Poindexter, Richards, Villegas, and Chair Kierkiewicz–9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Motion carries with nine ayes. MS. LEE LOY: Chair, motion to remove Communication 659.11 from the table. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Great,thank you. Vote on Motion Ms. Lee Loy moved to remove Comm. 659.11 from the to Remove from: table. Seconded by Mr. Richards was carried by the following the Table: voice vote: (Approved) Ayes: Committee Members Chung, David, Eoff, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Lee Loy, Poindexter, Richards, Villegas, and Chair Kierkiewicz–9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, this is your communication. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you Chair, appreciate that. Roy, I see you in the audience, want to come up? Thank you for being here today, appreciate your time. I think you've also submitted a PowerPoint to everyone, Comm. 659.12. Thank you for doing that. If you'd like to begin Roy. (Note: At this time, Managing Director Roy Takemoto and Planner V Natasha Soriano came forward and provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, see the DVD copy of the proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office, a copy of the PowerPoint is made part of the record see Comm. 659.12.) MR. TAKEMOTO: Roy Takemoto, Managing Director. So last month changed format a little bit and started to talk about some of the major initiatives. The status as far as what we anticipate completing by the end of November and how we would—and what needs to transition; what and how. So last month my focus was on the homeless and affordable housing. And this month the other major Page 6 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 category of projects initiatives that we've been working on is transportation related. For these initiatives, the reason why we focused on these particular initiatives, is they fell into some of these underlying themes. One, it was either like it promoted multi-moda3l opportunities within county rights of way; two, it improved connectivity of the street network, and together working with non- vehicular networks, like trails; and three, it enhanced alternative non-vehicular choices to reduce our dependency on the automobile, like promoting the bus system. And for all of these initiatives thinking about transition, the Planning Department is the common advocate for most of these initiatives. And so I'd like to introduce a key person who will be staying through the next Administration and helping with the transition, and hopefully will be the keeper of the flame. And I know from the previous meeting, the Public Works Committee meeting, where you talked about Vision Zero, you talked with this person, who I'll introduce, Natasha Soriano with the Planning Department. Natasha is an Engineer, with a passion of a Planner and a broader perspective of a planner. So a Planner who is grounded, or an Engineer who is enlightened. Either way you can take it. So we're really lucky that Michael Yee stole Natasha from the State Department of Transportation. So I'll let Natasha talk about some of these projects, where we are, how it would transition and I'll just jump in. Because she's been working on almost all of these, and I'll jump in as needed. So Natasha? MS. SORIANO: So the first thing on this list is, the Vision Zero. So thank you very much for passing that through. With that in the short term, Complete Streets, I have been working with the consultant SSFM, in cooperation with DPW (Department of Public Works)to create a Complete Streets design manual. And that is wrapping up fairly quickly. A final will be done this week, and I'll probably introduce that in November. So we're trying to adopt that by resolution, and after that there is going to be some forthcoming code changes to help support the design manual. Mostly looking at roadway widths. And surprisingly, and going back to that conversation of roadway widths, we have a variety of roadway widths that actually can be smaller than what we currently have as our standards. So that still is ongoing. The code changes will probably take us into next year, and the contract with SSFM will conclude in June. MR. TAKEMOTO: Let me jump in on that one. Okay, so Complete Streets, as mundane as it sounds, actually it a very significant planning tool. It would change how our communities can function and look. Right now all of our streets are, you know, really automobile centric. And the Complete Streets standards allow for more flexibility and design where we can have a better, more appropriate designed street, like in Honoka`a or some rural place. Where we have one standard that you pave from roadway boundary, to roadway boundary. The entire 50-foot right of way with a wide travel lane, and fully paved roadside shoulders. So the grass landscape all that stuff, is really hard to get into a street right now. Page 7 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 So with these Complete Street standards, you have the flexibility for landscaping where appropriate, narrow lanes where appropriate, accommodation of bicycles and pedestrians where appropriate, and the flexibility that can bring in a multidisciplinary examination, instead of just strictly controlled by Public Works' standards. So anyway that's coming on your plate in the next Administration, so that will be something to look forward to. MS. SORIANO: Actually, so the Kona Open Space, maybe you want to take that. MR. TAKEMOTO: Yeah, okay. So yeah, we'll go quickly through this list, so that you can get to lunch. The Kona Open Space Plan, is significant in two respects. One is that it'll be one of the first types of plans like this, that the county will undertake, that will be a focus on non-vehicular type of transportation networking. And it will tie into the street network. And the other different thing about this Open Space Plan, is it will be a way to energize the community development plan action committees. The Kona Action Committee has been very enthused about taking this project on, and this will be a way to have an action committee take the lead and do something together with their community. And come up with something tangible and productive. So look forward to that one, that would be coming out of the Planning Department. Then I'll move to the next one on the—so you can interrupt me anytime if you have questions on any of these. The Downtown Hilo Business Improvement District, they'll be coupled with the Parking Benefit District. I may have talked about this before, this is the one that I'm working with Chair Chung. The difference here is that besides just a Business Improvement District, this would be an experiment to give authority to the Business Improvement District business owners to manage the parking within that district. Manage it in terms of the peak period rates to manage the congestion, and also whether or not to give their merchants validation credits to encourage people to go to their business and park sort of for free, if they park and go to that business, get validated, and their parking will be taken care of. But the other innovation that we're trying to look at here, is the use of the sidewalk for cafe purposes, or to allow the business to stretch out into the sidewalk area fronting their business. And what we are looking at is the legal means, and also whether it makes sense to delegate that authority to the Business Improvement District Board. So that the businesses can be the one who manage and determine, the appropriateness of the use of that sidewalk. Of course there needs to be standards, approved by Public Works, like the clear space. So that there's always a way for ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), or whatever the pedestrian to pass on that sidewalk. So businesses cannot obstruct the sidewalk function, but it'll complement and provide, especially during this COVID times, an outdoor eating opportunity, or outdoor business opportunity. So that's the Business Improvement District. Page 8 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 On trails which Parks and Rec will take the lead, we have Waimea Trails and Hilo Bayfront Trails. So Waimea Trails, Natasha has been the active proponent for the phase one, where it's in design now, and hopefully Natasha can take it to construction. So Natasha, where are we on that one? MS. SORIANO: So we're currently in the environmental permitting phase. We're just clearing up Section 106, and hopefully we'll be done with that and pursuing a categorical exclusion to the NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act)process. Right now because this is kind of an older project, and it had a consultant before, the design is actually about 90 percent. That's kind of the clean-up and the approach that we've taken is to complete the Federal NEPA process, complete the design. I still have to try to get it on to the STIP (State (Transportation Improvement Plan) so that it can get funds. But that might just be a little bit of a waiting game, and waiting for other projects to drop off on the State Plan. And just to have this really shovel ready, so it's ready to go. And there's a lot of support from Councilman Richards, so thank you very much. Phase two, we have an NTP (Notice to Proceed) for our surveyor, to resurvey the alignment through Parker Ranch. Something that's further from the stream, and a little bit more right of way. Because we are doing this phase-wise, each section will need to do an environmental assessment, or go through the NEPA process individually. So while we're hopeful we'll get all four, I'm not promising. I'm not promising that we may not be able to get federal funds for everything, but it's certainly possible to get the paths on subsequent phases done. Even if it's not paved, like phase one. Did you want to add anything more to that? MR. TAKEMOTO: No,just that it's unfortunate that the community had to wait so long for this. We really tried to pay attention to it, this Administration, but you know what happened. We just got pulled away by disaster after disaster. So I know Natasha is totally committed, she knows what needs to be done in detail. There are four phases to this project, we can push on each of the phase concurrently. Phase two takes us into Parker Ranch land, phase three is a problem. But for anybody like Sue, who has relationship with Hawaiian Homelands, we're hoping to convince Hawaiian Homelands to allow us to move the trail from the problematic state lands and shift it across the stream so that it can go through Hawaiian Homes Lalamilo project. So anyway those are the challenges coming up for the next Administration on that project. Hilo Bayfront trails phase two went out to bid came out over the budget, so we need to figure out the costs around funding for that. There's a phase three that Natasha is working on that would help plan a connection from Pauahi to Wailua State Park. Any progress on that one? MS. SORIANO: Not currently. Page 9 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 MR. TAKEMOTO: Okay. Well anyway there's a $25,000 planning grant for that. MR. RICHARDS: Chair? CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Mr. Richards. MR. RICHARDS: Sorry, Roy, I wanted to back up to the Waimea trail so we can just make that pau. The funding you said actually can get on STIP, for getting funding? MS. SORIANO: Because this is an older project it used to be on a STIP and on a list of federal aid projects. Couple years ago it was taken off. So it's just a matter of doing the paperwork and coordinating with HDOT (Hawai`i Department of Transportation) to get it back on the STIP. Because of some of like federal monies coming in for CARES, and I'm not so deep into details, but at the last sub-staff meeting we were in form there's kind of an expedited process to get back on STIP, for projects that are shovel ready. And Maui has already done that, and so I've asked and inquired if that's a system available to all counties. And I've been informed, that yes, it is. And so I think there's a good likelihood that we can get back on the STIP fairly quickly. MR. RICHARDS: Okay. Just for my fellow Council Members, an older project can be defined as over 20 years in the making. So this has been around for a long time. This is the closest that we've come, to actually getting done. What can my office do to help get it on STIP? I think there may be some other funding, so we need to talk story. MS. SORIANO: Yeah. MR. RICHARDS: Because there may be a way to get things going forward. MS, SORIANO: Yeah, we can talk offline. MR. RICHARDS: Okay. Has this surveyor gone out in the phase two? There's a concern because the easement was basically in an un-walkable area so that has been corrected. Have the surveyors gone out? MR. TAKEMOTO: They have the notice to proceed. I don t know if they went out into the field yet. What their task is, is to stake the existing easement boundary. And that way the community members can see the actual—what it actually looks on the ground, and then make the adjustments. And then Parker Ranch has been really terrific in being cooperative with us to make the amendments as we see a need in the field. Page 10 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 MR. RICHARDS: Okay. So just whatever we need to do to keep it going, so it doesn't get stalled again. Okay, thank you, Chair. I yield. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Any other questions for Roy or Natasha at this time? No, okay. Please proceed, you guys. MR. TAKEMOTO: Okay, moving to the transit related-type of initiatives. There's the Pahoa Transit Hub, so the status there is that Planning is assisting Mass Transit with the Chapter 3443, so the state and federal environmental assessment. So there was a confusion whether the site that's at the corner of Highway 130 and the road going to Highway 137. Refer to it as Gilbert Aguinaldo's site. So there was a confusion whether or not environmental assessment was done for that site, and actually there was not. So we were trying to see if we could temporarily use that site through an exemption of the state environmental process, and we were turned down on that exemption. So we have to do a full blown environmental assessment. We decided to do it to satisfy state and federal requirements to keep the option open to use federal funding for the build out of the transit hub. And there was one other site that came into play that looks really good, and it's a site controlled by the State Department of Agriculture. It has a really safe good access that exist off a channelized intersection. So that would be thrown into a mix. So the scope of this NEPA 343 EA is an alternative site analysis with another public engagement process, and go right into site selection and design. And apply for federal transit money to help for the construction. So that's the status of the Pahoa hub. So this Pahoa hub will be the initial pilot to transition into a hub and spoke system. So using the longer buses to go connecting between this hub and Kea`au and Hilo, and then smaller buses to the circuits within the communities within Puna. MS. SORIANO: I'll also add though, recently April and I have worked to get the Pahoa hub on the state Strategic Transportation Oriented Development Plan. Sorry, that's a little bit of a mouth full. So it was accepted, and subsequently the State Public Library System has reached out to the TOD (Transient Oriented Development) Council to engage and see if we could co-locate the Pahoa State Library next to the Pahoa hub. So we'll be meeting in the next coming of weeks, to see the possibilities. I think there might have been an issue, maybe with federal funding if we do that. But I will work to make sure that it shouldn't preclude. I think because the library and the hub will both have independent utility of each other, it should be okay. MR. TAKEMOTO: So this is a relatively new concept that was posted to us from the state side. So if any of you are interest Council Members representing that area to engage in that discussion, and exploring the feasibility of that concept, Natasha will apprise you of the meetings coming up. Page 11 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Chair? So actually the idea of co-locating the library and the Mass Transit System was actually breached by Russell Ruderman. Who's been fighting for the library for a number of years, when this issue became re-apparent. So I'm surprised that we're just learning that now, because I was actually a driving force early on in the process. And I'd greatly like to see that. I have a question to follow up. As part of Mass Transit Master Plan, Kea`au is actually listed as the primary hub, not Pahoa. So I'm just interested in what the thinking is as far as driving Pahoa, at least not concurrently with Kea`au. MR. TAKEMOTO: Kea`au is still in play. I think it was more of what site was available. Kea`au we would have to deal with the private owner. So there's two sites in Kea`au, that discussion has been started. But that one is lagging behind. So actually the second hub that's more in play, is the Kona hub. So that one SSFM has been retained, and they were doing a preliminary alternative site analysis similar to what they did for the Pahoa hub. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay, good, good, good. I mean the main idea for this hub needs to be located somewhere central, and should of access other services and not be removed from the main part of town. So nearby things like grocery stores, libraries, whatever is needed, because that's the idea is to connect people. And we do have the hub and spoke system understood. But it does need to be, I think, central to be very useful for those who are going to be riding it, yeah. So thank you for looking into that, and for pushing that to be connected to our library because that makes a lot of sense. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Ms. Lee Loy. MS. LEE LOY: Thank you. Roy, it just sparked something regarding the Kea`au Library. I believe some funding was made available with Representative Onishi and they were able to comb out some planning and design to look at different sites in Kea`au, and then do an opportunities and constraints map. Is that the same projects that you were just mentioning earlier as far as the co-location of the libraries and hub and spoke program in Kea`au? MR. TAKEMOTO: You know, I forgot about that Kea`au Library, so that has not been put together yet. The library and the transit idea for Kea'au. I know one of the sites that was a preliminary discussion with Shipman was by the regional park, where I think the library was also kind of looking at. But the other site was more a connection within the old village portion of Kea`au, and for that I don't recall an alternative site for a library in that location. MS. LEE LOY: You know what Natasha and Roy, may be we'll sit back down with Representative Onishi who actually had the funding for it. Because I believe through an executive order,the Kea`au Park is now under county's jurisdiction. Page 12 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 And then they were going to bring in some funding with the state for the library, you know, over that facility in Kea`au. And I know some of the opportunities there was the transportation network that could kind of run through the Kea`au district. Yeah, Natasha, I'll be sure to reach out. Thank you, Chair. I yield. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Sure, no problem. Anyone in Kona have questions? MS. DAVID: Thank you, Chair. No. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay, thank you. Roy and Natasha, go ahead. MR. TAKEMOTO: Okay, moving to bike share which actually is funded now by Mass Transit. There's Mass Transit for the past couple fiscal years has been funding bike share about$10,000 a month, to cover their Administrative cost. During the COVID time we had directed some grant money to bike share to give free rides. Tina Clothier who was part of your earlier discussion on the Vision Zero, she's the pusher on this bike share through PATH (People's Advocacy for Trails Hawai`i), and she says that free rides will continue through this month. And looking to see if she can continue at a lower monthly fee of$10.00. They had over 700 Hawaii residents sign up for membership incentivized by this free ridership. So that was a great program. So as part of the hub design, there will be an integration with bike share stations. So moving to the last category of projects, which are ones coordinated by Public Works and Finance. And both of these projects that I'll discuss are in the more of an acquisition phase, hence the involvement of Finance. So the first one is in Kona, Oneo Lane. So that one is an acquisition from Kamehameha Schools, that will be a key that could open up an opportunity to look into a one-way routing system with Alii Drive and Kuakini, coupling those street networks. And taking the one lane that would be freed up along Ali`i Drive, for pedestrian improvements. So that's Oneo Lane and the status of acquisition with Kamehameha Schools is I think in some final details. Hopefully by the time we end at the end of November, that one can get buttoned up. Puna roads, what can I say, we tried. There are two the hardest one was the acquisition in Eden Rock. So that one we're fortunate to get that offer of a donation of a lot in Eden Rock. So I just checked, and that one is going through the final stages of acceptance. And the Council will be presented with a resolution, to accept that donation very shortly. But with that donation, that would give the county an opportunity to grant itself an easement over the private roads in Eden Rock. And the idea there is to get an easement over the proposed bus route within Eden Rock. And with that easement it would be a similar situation to the PEARS road(Puna Emergency Access Road)through Hawaiian Acres. That is also kind of like a substandard road, but it's an easement to the county that the county maintains. So this one would be something similar, where Page 13 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 we wouldn't have to improve it to county dedicable standards. And where the county would maintain that connection. So Matt you have any questions on Puna? MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: What about the rest of connectivity roads in Puna? And I appreciate the joke, but I mean honestly we're going to make 12 years now trying to figure out connectivity in Puna. MR. TAKEMOTO: Yeah. Okay, so the main one is, if we can get one of them. So one is Puhala, that Puhala extension and the connection in Eden Rock would be resolved by this donation. We would need to acquire, complete the acquisition form the Tanouye family. And so the Puhala extension and the Eden Rock connectivity would be the first that can hopefully set the stage, because these are the hardest acquisitions to set the stage and the momentum for the rest to follow. Natasha and Keiko Mercado, Keiko is the one in charge in Planning Department for the Puna CDP (Community Development Plan). And so Natasha and Keiko have been part of our committee, trying to push these connectivity projects. So the two of them will carry the flag from here. Natasha, do you want to add anything? MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Tasha, we're going to be friends by force, I think. Because this is has been something I started from the beginning of my term, when I realized that there's connectivity and meetings happening. The community feels really strongly about this, and you're going to find it goes both ways. Love and hate, so be prepared for that. But I mean just at two years, given that we had eruptions and pandemics. Finding a way forward to open some of these connectivity routes, because right now it's one way in one way out. And the roads that lead in to these subdivisions, are not really up to par at all. They need assistance, but it's going to take community outrage and it's going to take partnership between the two of us. And also just keep me in the loop on the Pahoa transit hub, that's been interesting from the beginning. And I'm just interested, and I'll like to see it work for everybody, and a lot of different people involved. But as far as connectivity, it just seems to be a struggle. I mean even looking at the last meeting we had we talked about the eminent domain tool to take over Papa`ikou Mill access. And that seems to be what, 10 years in the process as well. So I feel like there has to be a more efficient and better way of getting property and using the tools that we have at are disposal. Whether it's donation from the community or eminent domain, we have a number of ways of taking property when we need it, to serve the greater needs. So just keep me in the loop, and I'm glad to have you on board. Thank you Roy, for passing the torch. Page 14 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 MS. SORIANO: Will do. I'd just like to add, again, so I mean at this point Puna Roads connectivity we have Finance and DPW (Department of Public Works) kind of taking the lead. And that's not to say I'm not going to be part of it. But, you know, part of this is going to need to find a leader, for DPW that can think outside of the box. And how we can try to achieve some of these things too. And so just trying to echo what Michael said earlier, in the Public Works Committee. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: I think that's very important for them to think outside the box, because that does not seem to be a thing that Engineers can do well. Got to think outside the box, it's hard. DPW to date has not been very helpful with getting this done. Thank you. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you. Chair Chung, go ahead. MR. CHUNG: Yeah. You know, Roy mentioned about the business improvement district for Downtown Hilo. And he talked about my involvement in this, so let's get one thing clear. He has been the driving force behind this initiative, he's the architect the brains behind everything, okay. I support it, and will continue to support it. I think it's a fantastic idea, but he's the man, okay. He came up with all of these different nuances and I think they are very creative. And thank you very much, Roy. So my question then is, when do think that might come before the Council? We can fast-track it. I mean, you know, and the reason why I ask that is, I sure would like you to be there to at least, even if it's at the committee level, to give your, you know, presentation on this thing, to unveil it. I think we owe that to you, and you owe it to us,too. Because if not, nobody's going to know what that thing is all about. But do you think we could get it maybe by the second meeting of November, is that possible? MR. TAKEMOTO: Yeah, that would be possible. We were kind of debating whether or not we needed a community meeting. MR. CHUNG: I think, you know, why don't we unveil it first, and then it can move forward, you know, with the community meetings. Because if we wait for thatI mean I've done some preliminary—I've had preliminary talks with some stakeholders, not the vast majority of them. And they seem to think it's a very good idea, okay. MR. TAKEMOTO: Okay. MR. CHUNG: But of course, we don't know what's going to happen. Because this is going to mean a buy in, right, on the part of these landowners, or business owners. Which hopefully will dwindle down over time to zero, right. Because of that novel idea that you had about the parking meters, and everything. But yeah, Page 15 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 let's not have that be a holdup. I want you to come, and be able to at least unveil this thing to the county. So if you can move it forward, so that we can have it during the second week, second meeting in November. And I will say this, you know, the next Mayor, whomever that person is, will be well advised to consider keeping you on board in whatever capacity. Because I think if anythingI mean if you've demonstrated anything during the course of these things which Matt, you know, has requested,you have a fantastic working knowledge, I mean so many aspects of our county government and projects and things like that. Would be pretty poho if you weren't around in my opinion. But that's just my opinion. So I'm hoping that you'll still be around, but at the same time I think you should come up in the second week of November to be able to give that presentation. Thank you. MR. TAKEMOTO: Thank you for those kind words. Yeah, we'll try to push that one up. MR. CHUNG: Okay. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Thanks, Roy. Anyone in Kona? MS. DAVID: No, Chair. Thank you. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay. Ms. Lee Loy. MS. LEE LOY: Thank you, Chair. Thank you, Natasha and Roy. And I actually began to hone in on that connection, and the synergy that needs to be created with DPW and Mass Transit. Because, you know, here you are in Planning Department, but we're trying to get the infrastructure in. And so my question is, how do we create that nexus? Is it through some of these plans, Natasha? Or is it also something that I know Ms. Kierkiewicz has championed with an audit of Chapter 25 and 23, right, Zoning and then the Subdivisions. And I think that was alsoI know I shared it during the General Plan update. You know, where is the appropriate time to plug in, so that we can start identifying key stakeholders in the respective departments. MS. SORIANO: So in working with the GP (General Plan), a lot of these plans, Vision Zero, Complete Streets ID's (Improvement Districts) from the BID (Business Improvement District) General Plan even looking into, you know, our decrease in global gas house emissions, and things like that. We're all looking to put that into the GP. I do think nobody wants to go through the work, but it's definitely necessary to do an audit. And quite frankly, I'm going to be kind of a little bit frank. In doing some of the research and trying to create a transportation framework. Just for my job, and to see where I'm going to be working next after Complete Streets and Vison Zero, are wrapped up, you know, we kind of don't Page 16 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 have strong language around DPW, in Charter. It's a reference to something, and I have a hard time finding duties and responsibilities. So you know, we may have to start looking at better defining DPW's role. That's always a question that comes up for me, is what is Planning's role with DPW? I will say that moving forward into the next Administration, it's very likely we will have triggered the need for MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization,) for both Kona and Hilo at that point. So that might be another opportunity to have that discussion, of how we're going to revamp or look at how Mass Transit. Planning, and DPW work in delivering transportation projects. Especially in trying to funnel in the federal funds, right. Because that's what the MPO is in charged with. So I've already kind of had some discussions with DOT (Department of Transportation), and with just kind of gaging from Maui's experience in the last four years of how they stood up their MPO. And there's a lot of differences between the Oahu one and Maui, and where it sits. It's kind of interesting for Maui their MPO sits in there transportation services, which is basically Mass Transit. And it has its pros and cons, because their still also having that trouble gap reaching DPW and getting those projects for their focus. So that's an opportunity. When we'll get that letter, I don't know, but it might be worth it in this next coming years to have those discussions of where we'd want to see that land. Or if we have to have maybe a discussion of how we reorganize. Do we specialize like Honolulu and have a Department of Transportation Services that covers the umbrella of all transportation. And then you pull out maintenance and construction. You know, money-wise and population-wise we may not be able to do that. But if we can come up with a solution some other way into organizing that, or trying to focus on how we would utilize that MPO. I think that might be a good start. MR. TAKEMOTO: May I make a suggestion? Going forward, you know, we kind of experimented with these working informal adhoc working committees like the Puna connectivity. We have this Mayor's Active Living Committee. It's where you bring together different departments with Council Members, with community. That seems to have worked to get all of us. Whether its Public Works to think out of the box, the Mayor Office, you know, all of us, Corp. Counsel. Working together trying to solve problems, and getting beyond the barriers that we tend to put up for ourselves if we just kept our own silos. So I would encourage that you kind of push this concept going forward. That you create this kind of working committee's taskforces or whatever you want to call it. Very informal, but very task oriented with deadlines, with specific assignments. I think that's the way to get things done in a different way. More creatively, hopefully. MS. LEE LOY: Yes. It continues to make me curious, and wonder around a state worker who works DOT highways will get in his car drive on a county road to get Page 17 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 to his state baseyard to pick up a state truck,to drive over a county road to improve a state road. And so this idea of a road network just being housed one place, you know, it's a radical thought. But funding would be focused, right? Kind of like Department of Water Supply, right. It's semiautonomous, their job is to deliver water, you know, why not just one division state/county handling our roads. Just a radical thought. But those are kind of the conversations that, I would love to throw up in one of these community meetings for people to chew on. And say hey, maybe we do need to think a little differently, and outside the box. I did have one question regarding the downtown outdoor seating area, Roy. And it's sounding like there's going to be some need for refinement in our code. I was looking at a standard that was done in Sacramento. Sacramento has these outdoor caf6s on the sidewalks, I just wondering if you had given some thought around other municipals and the authorities given to them, or any models that you're looking at. MR. TAKEMOTO: You were pulled some standards from other jurisdictions. So those would be the basic ground rules. So what we're kind of doing differently here is, who's the one who's making the decision to say yeah, or nay on specific store frontages. And so the experiment here is to take it away from government, and to give that authority to people who it affects the most and to see how that would work. MS. LEE LOY: Great, Roy, and thank you. You know, I have to agree with Chair Chung. I'm thinking about the Waimea Trails and Greenways Project. You know, that was something you and I did back in the late 80's, and early 90's with PBR Hawaii. And here we are 26 years later, you know, still trying to make that happen. But I have to agree, your knowledge of land use, land use decisions. You know,just the overall guide of what Hawai`i County has evolved over, it would be like he said, poho to see you kind of leave a lot of that information behind. And I would rather see a shift of that knowledge. So thank you, Chair. I yield. And by the way Roy, thank you so much for lending your library to us. I think we're still fighting over so many of your books. Thank you, Chair. I yield. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you. Roy and Natasha, I just have a few questions for you folks. Since we're on the business improvement district piece, and the outdoor caf6. So Roy, I just want to clarify, are you saying that a community must have an improvement district in order to make a decision to have outdoor caf6? I'm thinking about, you know, community I represent alongside Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Pahoa Town, not too many sidewalks there. But certainly a community that has a lot of interesting eateries that I think would benefit from, say a weekly on Sunday's outdoor dining experience. How are they able to leverage this concept, what tool is available to them? Page 18 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 MR. TAKEMOTO: It will take some code amendments. So we can be sure that these code amendments can accommodate these different situations and not be exclusive to establishing a business improvement district. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay, great,thank you. Regarding the EA for the Pahoa transit hub, I don't recall you giving us a timeframe for that. But are you going to be issuing a RFP (Request for Proposal) before the end of this Administration? MR. TAKEMOTO: For the Pahoa NEPA 343 EA? CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Yes. MR. TAKEMOTO: Yeah. Brenda is working on that as of the moment. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay. And then just to provide some clarity, because I know folks are tuning into this meeting. So the EA is going to evaluate all the different options that we have for a Pahoa transfer hub, and then in it identify which are the most suitable for our purposes. MR. TAKEMOTO: Yeah. I know the community went through that exercise with SSFM before, so it would be almost a repeat of that. But with additional sites, and with additional analysis of each of the sites in terms of if it's environmental and other criteria. So the criteria may change, and be broader. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay. So potentially some like in-depth engineering or design work is involved in that. Okay, so it's one EA for the entire concept of the Pahoa transit hub, it's not an EA per site? I just want to make that clarification, because that was in the community, that misinformation. MS. SORIANO: I do think that it probably be more like a two-step process inwards, an alternative analysis and then we come out of that with a preferred location or a preferred project. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: I see. MS. SORIANO: And then you would go through the EA process. But then also noting at least like two or three others are suitable sites. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: So alternative analysis, preferred sites, then EA. What's the timeframe for all of that? MR. TAKEMOTO: That may take about a year. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: But at the end of a year, we will have identified the optimal site for Pahoa transit hub that could also be adjacent to a state library. Page 19 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 MS. SORIANO: Right. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay. MS. SORIANO: And at the end of the year, we would already have cleared our NEPA requirements for that as well. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay, great,thank you. A couple other questions. So in terms of the Puna roads connectivity, earlier this year we passed a bond float to pay for some of this work that needed to be done. With connectivity, with the idea of having some emergency roots out of the area. Who is going to be in charge of leading that process, now that we're going to be changing Administration? Natasha, it's you that Matt and I go and bother if we want an update or want to convene these connectivity meetings. I want to make sure that we're taking advantage of the funding that we had appropriated, and it's another way to stimulate our economy. MS. SORIANO: Yes. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay, Matt you heard that, she's meaning it. Loud and clear for the record. MS. SORIANO: I think, you know, we still have to kind of look at my workload also, in addition to Keiko's because she is the Puna AC (Action Committee)that has been coming meeting regularly too. So that's still kind of work in progress, I definitely will be part of it. Thinking in my head, I would probably be most likely the one to try to spearhead. But also, I mean within in the next Administration, if it's important enough for them, it could land back in the Mayor's Office as well. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay. Keep us posted on that one. And ideally if there's some kind of meeting calendar, it doesn't need to be every month. If it's bi-monthly or whatever that would be incredibly helpful. And I just want to make sure we're including our friends at the state, right. Too often we are working in silos, but I remember a conversation that we were all at earlier this year before COVID. It was after that second "carmagedon" an issue that we dealt with. We recognized a lot of the decisions we want to make as county, we really cannot make on our own. We have to make sure we're involving our state partners and other private stakeholders. So I've got a great relationship with Ed Sniffen, Deputy at Department of Transportation and he's reached out to say, "Ash, whatever you guys need please let me know." So I want to make sure we're leaning on our personal networks, and contacts. So that we can actually make some progress in these conversations. MS. SORIANO: Yeah, definitely. Page 20 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 CHR KIERKIEWICZ: The last question I have, Roy. Is not something that was part of your presentation, but I recall you sharing it with Council Member Lee Loy and myself. A county fleet? So it's not on here, is that project that Riley is going to be taking over? You know, fleets where we would be contracting with a vendor to provide vehicles for county departments to use, with the idea that some of these vehicles be things that run of hydrogen or our electric vehicles. MR. TAKEMOTO: Actually Riley's working on two tracks on that. One is a replacement and conversion of our county's vehicular fleet, the light duty trucks and automobiles. The second track is with the bus system. So that has started where Brenda gave Riley the whole list of the buses that she has by age, the type, capacity, all that kind of stuff. And identifying which ones would be transitioning to the hub and spokes. So the larger buses being replaced by smaller buses. So that type of analysis has been started, and Riley will be taking that list working with a consultant. And checking to see if we can jump on the state's selected vendor, who is looking into doing that third party energy fleet kind of purchase. And it could be a lease back to the county, or a rental or something. But anyway Riley would have the details on that, and it is something that he is actively working on and super exciting. Because it'll be like our county Uber system. You know, you need a car you just order it, you need a van you get that choice. We not using it on the weekends that company rents it out, to the public. So it's more efficient plus it's all renewable energy type of vehicles. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Yeah, thanks for that update, Roy. We'll be sure to follow up with Riley for more information. Thank you, again for this update. Are we expecting another update from you in November? MR. TAKEMOTO: That would be at your pleasure. I'm not sure, I think at that point maybe hopefully we'll know a transition person. And so it can be a tag team, discussion with you folks on how that transition can take place in a more cooperative way with the Council. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Sure. Thanks, Roy. Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, do you want to wrap us up? MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Follow-up question, that wasn't on your PowerPoint regarding COVID. Things that came to my attention. One of the test that are required for transpacific flyers, are not covered by insurance. I think they just wanted to clarify that we understand that, and that the public understands that. Because that was something we didn't touch on that day. But insurance carriers here, like HMSA, Kaiser, some are, some aren't. But for the most part they're not covering the cost of the test for flyers, that can be anywhere from $150 to $250. So that was a big one that I found out since then. But also, I didn't ask this question, but I should have, is when a visitor or someone else flying transpacific Page 21 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 tests positive with the rapid result test. Where do they go for the second test? Or is that given at the airport as well? MR. TAKEMOTO: Okay, so if a visitor tests positive with our second arrival antigen test. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Yes. MR. TAKEMOTO: It needs to be what they call a reflex PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test. So that person together with their close contacts, is moved to that area and administered the PCR test. The positive, as well as the close contacts. And then they are MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: That's done at the airport? MR. TAKEMOTO: At the airport. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay, so not going somewhere else afterwards to get tested again? MR. TAKEMOTO: No. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay, so they're staying at the airport for the second test. MR. TAKEMOTO: Right. And then at that point they're under the control of Department of Health. In terms of managing the isolation, or quarantine. Until the results are provided, which is about 24 to 36 hour lag time. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay. Then I noticed actually looks like DOH made the transition from 28 days of information, to 14 days after our last meeting on Wednesday as of Friday. To me that's neat, and I just want to mahalo them for doing that. And for you guys for being there, to help answer all those questions. And then looks like the second rule just came out, yeah, is that right? You want to touch on any of that? The second amendment. MR. TAKEMOTO: Yeah, new rule came out today on inter-island. So that provides an inter-island traveler two choices to get out of quarantine. Either a pre-travel test done 72 hours, or a post-arrival test done any time after arrival to get out of a 14 quarantine. So you can take it up the day upon your arrival, go to one of our County test sites free test, take the test and you're good to go. The pre-travel test,the 72 hour, allows you to take the test before you get on the plane, go to Honolulu, come back within 72 hours, and then no quarantine. That's 72 hour pre-travel test covers you on the return as well. Page 22 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: So inter-island traveler can take a pre-test, they have to pay for that? MR. TAKEMOTO: If they go to one of our county test sites, no that's free. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: I noticed we're not putting out real heavy testing MR TAKEMOTO: Schedule. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Yeah, schedule. MR. TAKEMOTO: Yeah. That's being worked on. So that we have regular sites, regular schedule. So that there's a rhythm that the community can get used to, and know where to go. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay. That looks like we're doing more like district testing like we talked about, real specific to, more so Kona side right now looks like. MR. TAKEMOTO: Yeah, we'll have it in all of the major districts. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay. MR. TAKEMOTO: And we're also looking into cooperating with the health clinics, that Council Member Poindexter suggested the last time. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay, so three days before hand take the test,they can fly. They can do up to three days of travel, is that right? MR. TAKEMOTO: Yes, stay in Honolulu or whereever three days. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: And then they come back, and then no need quarantine? MR. TAKEMOTO: Yeah. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Or they can do a test upon arrival back in their hometown, and they can test again. Is there a wait period or you can go the next day when you get back? MR. TAKEMOTO: No, you can go the next day. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: The next day you get back? Page 23 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 MR. TAKEMOTO: Yeah, but you have to wait for your results. Right now the only test that we're able to provide that we have supply for is the PCR test. And we're going to get the mobile vans with this abbott rapid test, which is almost as sensitive as the PCR. More sensitive than the antigen test that we're giving at the airport now. And that one will provide a result in 15 minutes. So we hope to get that by the end of this month, or early next month. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Are we going to be paying for those test, or taking care the residents of our island? MR. TAKEMOTO: This test will be given free as well. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay, good. And the residents who are choosing to get tested, if they're not available to get a free test through one of our clinic's, through one of our community testings are they paying for that on their own as well? MR. TAKEMOTO: If they go to clinic? MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: If they go to one of our trusted partners or you know MR. TAKEMOTO: No. You have to go to a test provider who's under contract to us. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay. MR. TAKEMOTO: So that would be the district scheduled sites. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: So if they electively go get tested,then it's on them to cover the cost because insurance won't cover it either. MR. TAKEMOTO: Yeah. Unless, we understand that it's medical. So I guess if you have symptoms then maybe it will be covered by insurance. But we want everybody to get tested, symptoms or no symptoms. So that's why we're covering. And people may still have to provide their insurance card, but it's unlikely the insurance will cover. But should the insurance cover, then that will be the first order of payment. But if it's not covered, our CARES money is covering on the county tests. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Yeah, it's an interesting discussion, but it ended being that insurance is not covering it because it's not a requirement by CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Which I thought was very interesting, yeah. So thank you, appreciate that. I was just watching that rule come out, and I just had some follow-up questions. Other than that, thank you for Page 24 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 your update. And then next month, perhaps I will include another member to come up with you as far as the transition team. Okay, so I'll have to adjust my language a little bit. You know, Roy dare to say, you know, Aaron did say it. And from the beginning I found you to be many things, smart, capable, and you have incredible patience to sit through some of the meetings that we go through. And you also have been just very good as far as answering questions, and being available and I've appreciated that about you since the beginning. So mahalo, for everything that you do. And it would be sad to lose you. But I know you did say you were thinking about just retiring. But it's been a pleasure Roy, thank you very much, and then I'll work with you a little bit before my next communication request. Okay, and thank you Natasha. I yield Chair, thank you. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you. Roy, it's always a treat to have you, and thanks for bringing Natasha. It's great to see you mentoring her in some sense, and making that leadership transition and building the capacity right here within our county. You're a pillar here at the county. I feel like you do want to retire, because you are giving books away. But if there's any way that we continue to engage you beyond this Administration, we will absolutely call on you. So thank you for being here, we look forward to the next update. MR. RICHARDS: Chair? Real quick question. Roy, what age do we test the children for the inter-island? MR. TAKEMOTO: We're following the state, so five years old and above. MR. RICHARDS: Okay, thank you. Chair, I yield. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay, Mr. Richards. Ms. Poindexter. MS. POINDEXTER: Yeah. I just want to real short say thank you, Natasha and Roy. And yes, Roy I agree withI ditto everything that they said about your expertise and skill sets. So I'm hoping at least during the transition period of the Administration you consider staying. Even if, you know, we haven't seen eye to eye on everything. We've agreed to disagree. And I know how valuable you are not just in county government but outside as well working with, you know, the communities. And you've done so much, and I keep saying this and I'll say it again, for the Hamakua District during the closure of Hamakua sugar and the Hilo Coast Processing. And we couldn't have done it without you involved in that team. So truly, truly appreciate everything that you have done for this county. And the next Administration would be foolish not to even have you on that team, even if it's just for the transition period. Thank you for all you've done, and thank you for sharing your skills and everything with Natasha. So thank you. Page 25 GREDC-29 October 20,2020 CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Thanks you guys, great to see you. Mr. Clerk, I'm sorry I made an error. I'm looking at my notes and I did not capture a motion or second to close file on this communication. Thank you. No we didn't motion to table, we didn't close file, sorry. I always write who motions and seconds, so Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder can you make the motion. Motion to Close File: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to close file on Comm. 659.11. Seconded by Ms. Lee Loy. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: All in favor to close file, please say "aye." Vote on Comm. 659.11: The motion to close file on Comm. 659.11 was carried by Filed the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Chung, David, Eoff, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Lee Loy, Poindexter, Richards, Villegas, and Chair Kierkiewicz—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. CHR KIERKIEWICZ: Okay, we are done. ORDER OF The Chair directed the Committee to proceed to the next order of business, RESOLUTIONS: Order of Resolutions. (There were none.) BILLS FOR The Chair directed the Committee to proceed to the next order of ORDINANCES: business, Bills for Ordinances. (There were none.) CHR KIERKIEWICZ: May I have a motion to adjourn. ADJOURN- There being no further business, at 1:12 p.m., Ms. Lee Loy moved to adjourn MENT: the meeting. Seconded by Mr. Richards and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Chung, David, Eoff, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Lee Loy, Poindexter, Richards, Villegas, and Chair Kierkiewicz—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Page 26