REP FC 187 2024/08/21 (2022-2024)

Home

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE DATE: August 21, 2024 PLACE: Council Chambers Kailua-Kona, Hawaii TIME: 9:02 a.m. Council Chair and Members Hawaii County Council Hilo, Hawaii 96720 Re: Comm. No. 967/Bill No. 188 Your Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 188, reports as follows: Bill No. 188, transmitted by Committee Members Heather Kimball and Matt Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder via Communication No. 967, dated July 29, 2024, amends Chapter 19, Article 7, Section 19-57, of the Hawaii County Code 1983 (2016 Edition, as amended), relating to the nondedicated agricultural use assessment program. This bill seeks to change the sunset date of the nondedicated agricultural use assessment program from January 1, 2028, to January 1, 2029, extends the time for property owners in the program to reapply for alternative programs from September 1, 2025, to September 1, 2026, and sets a September 1, 2028, deadline for the director to review all reapplications. Managing Director Deanna Sako was available in the Hilo Council Chambers for questions. Committee Member Heather Kimball stated that the Finance Director held a meeting on July 18, 2024, to discuss the short-term and long-term dedicated ag program and the community food sustainability program. Ms. Kimball said that during this meeting, a lot of incorrect information was shared from various sources, which caused a lot of concern within the community. She realized there were some concerns they could address to provide comfort to the community. Ms. Kimball gave an overview of this measure and the application pamphlet that was created. Committee Member Matt Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder apologized to the community and acknowledged that this was mishandled and stated that sometimes the Council's decisions are not broadcast to the community, which can cause people to panic when there is no information or misinformation, as occurred in this situation. However, he believes that this will help. Committee Member Jenn Kagiwada asked Ms. Kimball to explain the process for individuals not currently in the program, specifically those who will enter farming over the next year. Ms. Kimball responded that those individuals could apply for the short-term (3-year), long-term (I 0-year), or food community sustainability programs. Committee Members Michelle Galimba and Rebecca Villegas commented in support of this measure. Ms. Villegas said she appreciated the pamphlets and the addition of another year, however, she felt that if she was not familiar with plans, taxes, and designations, this could also confuse her and expressed the importance of supporting and guiding individuals through the process. FC Report No. 187