HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0339.001 2022-2024 Q/C,OEAG
Res. IqQ-23
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Kanoelehua Industrial Area Association
Council Member Cindy Evans,Chair
Council Member Sue L.K.Lee Loy,Vice Chair
Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs w
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Office of the County Clerk
County of Hawaii
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo,HI 96720 '
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RE: Support for Hawaii County Resolution No.199-23 Draft 1 �'
Dear Chair Evans,Vice-Chair Lee Loy,and Members of the Committee on Governmental Operations and External
Affairs,
I write in strong support of Hawai'i County Resolution No.199-23 Draft 1,which urges the honorable Governor Josh
Green,M.D.,to issue an emergency proclamation to provide relief for damages,losses,and suffering and to protect the
health,safety,and welfare of the people affected by the hazardous conditions at the property formerly known as Uncle
Billy's Hilo Bay Hotel. As a business association serving East Hawaii,swift action is necessary to address the pressing
issues at hand.
KIAA was formed in an effort to curtail crime plaguing businesses in the industrial area. We have a long standing
belief that businesses should operate free of crime and danger.The Uncle Billy's property has long been a source of
trouble and danger,posing significant risks to the surrounding Banyan Drive Peninsula. Since hotel services ceased in
June 2017,the property has experienced numerous fires,squatters,illegal activity,and security issues,disrupting the
surrounding community and an unnecessary strain on vital resources. The data provided by the Hawai'i Police
Department and the Hawaii Fire Department highlights the substantial financial burden and public safety concerns
associated with the ongoing hazardous conditions.
The current situation requires immediate attention and intervention,as the hazardous conditions at the property
endanger the well-being of the people in the surrounding area and impede our community's economic recovery and
resilience. An emergency proclamation by Governor Green can provide much-needed relief to those affected and
enable the removal of blighted properties that create unsafe conditions. It would also pave the way for the
redevelopment of the Banyan Drive Peninsula,which is crucial for the long-term prosperity of Hawai'i County. It is an
opportunity to improve the area,stimulate economic growth,and ensure our community's health,safety,and welfare.
Again,please support Resolution No.199-23 Draft 1 to assist with the well-being and revitalization of our community.
Sincerely,
Cory C. uiar
Administrator
820 Piilani Street,Suite 201 I Hilo,HI 96720 Tel:808-961-5422 I Fax:808-935-9740 I Web:www.kiaahilo.org a
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