HomeMy WebLinkAboutREP FC 074 2023/09/19 2022-2024REPORT OF THE
COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
DATE: September 19, 2023 Re: Comm. No. 446/Res. No. 256-23
PLACE: Council Chambers
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
TIME: 10:00 a.m.
Council Chair and Members
Hawaii County Council
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Your Committee on Finance, to which was referred Resolution No. 256-23, reports as follows:
Resolution No. 256-23, transmitted by Finance Director Deanna S. Sako, via Communication No. 446
dated August 31, 2023, authorizes the Mayor to enter into an agreement with the State of Hawaii
Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes
Section 46-7, for a grant to the Hawaii County Research and Development Department.
This resolution allows for the receipt of $175,000 in federally -derived funds to provide services and
financial assistance for internet subscription fees for qualified households on Hawaii Island.
Committee Member Ashley L. Kierkiewicz asked Economic Development Specialist Riley Saito to provide
more information on this program.
Committee Member Michelle Galimba expressed the frustration of her constituents as they have limited
providers in the area. Some have received approval, but services have yet to be provided. Ms. Galimba
recounted a conversation with Mr. Saito regarding this and asked if there was any follow-up. Mr. Saito
confirmed that he followed up and contacted the appropriate people to investigate this.
Committee Member Cindy Evans asked if it would be possible for a nonprofit to focus on assisting the
elderly community with this process, to which Mr. Saito said that there are community groups that they focus
on to help, like the aging community, low-income housing, as well as those who are illiterate.
Committee Chair Matt Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder provided comments of support and gratitude.
Your Committee on Finance is in accord with the purpose and intent of Resolution No. 256-23, and
recommends its adoption.
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Respectfully submitted,
COMMITTEE ON
MATT KAN I`I-KLVINFELDER,
CHAIR
FC REPORT NOVO 74
ADOPTED. ,
AYES NOES ABS EX
EVANS
X
GALIMBA
X
INABA
X
KAGIWADA
X
KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER
X
KIERKIEWICZ
X
KIMBALL
X
LEE LOY
X
VILLEGAS
X
Respectfully submitted,
COMMITTEE ON
MATT KAN I`I-KLVINFELDER,
CHAIR
FC REPORT NOVO 74
ADOPTED. ,