HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0586.001 2022-2024THE
COUNTY OF HAWAI;
70?3 � : SO
FOOD BASKft
HAWAVI ISLAND'S FOOD BANK
Aloha council members,
My name is Alexandra Haban, and I am representing The Food Basket, Hawai'i Island's
Food Bank. Throughout my last four years of working at The Food Basket, I have had
the honor and privilege of collaborating closely with an extraordinary network of
approximately 50 farmers spanning across our island. Because of this collaboration, I
have become more aware of some of the challenges our farming community faces, one
of which is agricultural theft.
I appreciate the opportunity to give testimony in support of the request for the funding of
security cameras for farmers in Council District 1, who are affected by agricultural theft.
Agricultural theft has been a long-standing problem, posing significant challenges to
farmers. These farmers work tirelessly to cultivate and nurture their land, dedicating their
lives to producing the food that sustains our community. However, the rise in theft
incidents has cost them not only financially but also their peace of mind.
One specific instance is the unfortunate experience faced by Esther and Peter Kim, who
currently operate a leased farm in District 1 near the 'Amauulu area. Between Thursday,
March 30 and Saturday morning, April 1, 2023, their farm was targeted by criminals who
broke into their premises and robbed them of approximately $3,500 worth of bush
beans. This incident not only caused significant financial loss to the Kim's but also left
them emotionally devastated. As dedicated farmers, they had nurtured their crops only
to have their hard work stolen from them. What makes their situation even more
distressing is that it was not an isolated incident. Shortly after the first break-in, another
incident occurred between October 11 and 12, 2023. This time, it wasn't just theft, but a
complete disregard for property boundaries and respect. An individual drove onto their
land, recklessly driving over their electric fence, thereby causing damage, additional
emotional distress, and another financial setback.
The installation of security cameras is an essential step towards ensuring the safety and
security of our hardworking farmers. These cameras will serve as a deterrent to potential
thieves, significantly reducing the risk of theft. Furthermore, they will provide valuable
evidence that can aid law enforcement agencies in identifying and apprehending the
culprits responsible for these crimes.
The funds requested will enable The Food Basket to purchase state-of-the-art security
cameras, specifically designed for rural areas, where surveillance is often challenging.
These cameras will be strategically placed across agricultural sites, covering vulnerable
areas, and providing comprehensive coverage.
Caun6t
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(,OMH . 58b
EXECUTIVE
DIRECTOR
KRISTIN FROST
ALBRECHT
BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
ANN EBESUNO
BOARD CHAIR
MARK
KRZYZANOWSKI
VICE -CHAIR
DENNIS LIN
TREASURER
JULIA ZEE
SECRETARY
STEPHEN UEDA
WARREN LEE
SAMANTHA
COLLINS
MAURICE
MESSINA
CASEY HALPERN
BRANDON LEE
Comm. Nn. S ov'
WWW.HAWAIIF00DBASKET.0RG Ref. To: u1
Ref. Date ZW
Administration and East Hawai'i Warehouse West Hawaii Warehouse
40 Holomua Street, Hilo, HI 96720 73-4161 Ulu Wini Place, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
808-933-6030 Phone 1 808-934-0701 Fax 808-322-1418 Phone 1 808-322-7373 Fax
In addition to the direct impact on farmers' lives and livelihoods, reducing agricultural
theft will have a positive domino effect on the entire community. When farmers feel
secure, they will be able to invest more in their operations, leading to increased
productivity and availability of locally grown produce.
The Food Basket's DA BOX Community Supported Agriculture, purchases produce from
small-scale farmers on a weekly schedule. The increased security for farmers through
the installed cameras will not only ensure peace of mind for the farmers, but also secure
the ordered produce which is delivered by DA BOX island wide.
In addition, the secured produce will support additional local markets, reducing the
dependency of imported produce and boosting the overall economy.
Lastly, providing security cameras to farmers sends a powerful message that our
community stands united against crime and supports those who are most vulnerable to
its consequences.
This initiative will not only protect our farmers but will also enhance the reputation of
District 1 as a safe and supportive environment for agricultural activities. In conclusion,
the request for $6,050 to purchase and install security cameras for farmers affected by
agricultural theft is a crucial investment that will bring both short-term and long-term
benefits to Council District 1.
I appreciate the council's time and consideration to safeguard our farmers and their vital
contribution to our community.
er ly,
Si
AIexHbn
Office: (808) 437-3044
'P.
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FOOD BASKET
HAWAI'I ISLAND'S FOOD BANK
1284 Kilauea, Ave., Unit 18, Hilo, Hawaii 96720
hawaiifoodbasket.ora