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ROGER V. MEEKER, ATTORNEY AT LAW
P.O.BOX 57
HAWAII NATIONAL PARK
HAWAII 96718
PHONE: (848)557-2223
E-MAIL: RVM.TIKI@GMAIL.COM
i July 2022
1..
County Council -}
County of Hawaii
2S Aupuni Street
Hilo,Hawaii 96720 NO
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Re: Support of Bill 174(Draft 2) _
County Charter Amendment to Establish Dept.of Bu'siding
Dear Council Members:
1 write in strong of support Bill 174.
Years of experience have clearly demonstrated that the efficient review,processing and issuance of building
permits is no longer practical—if even possible—as a function of the Department of Public Works. For
whatever reasons,multiple"re-boots"of this essential County function have not worked. The general public is
beyond frustrated,the current situation makes the entire County appear dysfunctional,and real reform is long
overdue.
Establishing a separate County Department tasked solely with the permitting responsibility would be a step in
the right direction. Public Works'responsibilities are uniquely distinct,overseeing the improvement and
maintenance of County infrastructure. An independent Department of Building could focus solely on the unique
responsibilities of building permitting,and would ideally be led by an individual with an excellent administrative
skillset. That type of experience is quite different from the skiliset required of a professional engineer.
Finally,a creative bifurcation of the existing Dept.of Public Works'staff's responsibilities should not require a
significant increase in the County's overall budgeting costs. Properly structured and with leadership that
understands the mission mandate,a separate Department of Building could be transformational for Hawaii
County.
ahalo for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Roger V. Meeker
Comm. o.��---- _
Ref. To:TnaI
Ref. ante 'JUL - E 2022