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ALI'I ICE
Kurt Osaki
21 Banyan Drive ( ,-).
Hilo HI 96720
kurt@aliiice.com Iia
(510) 414-0292
June 28, 2023
Council Member Cindy Evans, Chair
Council Member Sue L.K. Lee Loy, Vice Chair
Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs
Office of the County Clerk
County of Hawai`i
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, HI 96720
RE: Support for Hawai'i CountyrResolution No. 199-23 Draft 1
Dear Chair Evans,Vice-Chair Lee Loy, and Members of the Committee on Governmental
Operations and External Affairs,
I am writing this letter to express mystrong support for Hawai'i County Resolution No. 199-23
Draft 1. As the owner of Ali'i Ice Company, a business located in the heart of Banyan Drive, I
am deeply concerned about the pressing issues at the property formerly known as Uncle Billy's
Hilo Bay Hotel. It is crucial that swift action is taken to address the damages, losses, and
suffering faced by the affected individuals and to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of our
community.
Banyan Drive holds a special place in our community, attracting both residents and visitors from
around the world. However,the current state of the area is deeply concerning. The deteriorating
conditions have led to increased theft, vandalism, and unacceptable behavior around our
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property, adversely impacting our business operations. Most importantly, the safety of our
customers and employees has been compromised on several occasions,placing them at
unnecessary risk. We cannot afford to wait until a serious incident occurs before taking decisive
action.
The hazardous conditions at the Uncle Billy's property have persisted for far too long, causing
significant risks to the Banyan Drive Peninsula and the surrounding community. Since the
cessation of hotel services in June 2017, the property has become a breeding ground for fires,
squatters, illegal activities, and security concerns. These issues not only disrupt the surrounding
community but also strain essential resources. The data provided by the Hawai'i Police
Department and the Hawai'i Fire Department clearly demonstrates the financial burden and
public safety concerns associated with the ongoing hazardous conditions. As the property falls
under the state's jurisdiction, I believe it is your responsibility to act promptly and efficiently.
The urgency of the situation necessitates immediate attention and intervention. The hazardous
conditions at the property not only endanger the well-being of individuals in the vicinity but also
hinder our community's economic recovery and resilience. Issuing an emergency proclamation,
as urged by Resolution No. 199-23 Draft 1, would provide much-needed relief to those affected
and facilitate the removal of blighted properties that create unsafe conditions.Furthermore, it
would pave the way for the revitalization of Banyan Drive,which is vital for the long-term
prosperity of Hawai'i County. This represents an opportunity to enhance the area, stimulate
economic growth, and ensure the health, safety, and welfare of our community.
I respectfully request your support for Resolution No. 199-23 Draft 1, as it aligns with our
collective objective to promote the well-being and revitalization of our community. By
addressing the hazardous conditions and facilitating the necessary redevelopment,we can create
a safer and more prosperous environment for all.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I trust that you will consider the concerns raised in
this letter and take appropriate action to support the resolution. If there is any additional
information or support I can provide,please do not hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely,
Kurt Osaki,President-Ali'i Ice