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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN GOEAC 2024/11/07 (2022-2024) DRAFT Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs 42nd Session Hawaii County Building 25 Aupuni Street Hilo, Hawaii November 7, 2024 CALL TO The regular meeting of the Committee on Governmental Operations and ORDER: External Affairs was called to order at 1:02 pm., in the Council Chambers, Hilo, by Ms. Cindy Evans, Chair. ROLL CALL: Present: Ms. Cindy Evans, Chair Mr. Holeka Goro Inaba, Member Ms. Jenn Kagiwada, Member (came in later) kr Mr. Matt Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Member Ms. Ashley L. Kierkiewicz, Member Ms. Heather L. Kimball, Member Ms. Rebecca Villegas, Member Absent& Excused: Ms. Michelle M. Galimba, Member STATEMENTS The Chair directed the Committee to proceed to the next order of FROM THE business, Statements from the Public on Agenda Items. PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS: (There were none.) CHR. EVANS: Okay, Thank you. So, what I would like to propose, is that the first on our agenda was HSAC (Hawai`i State Association of Counties), and I'd like to move that to the end of the agenda with the other HSAC resolution. And then start,out with the second on our agenda. Mr. Clerk. Change Order As directed by the Chair and with no objection from the Council Members, of Business: the following items were taken out of order: Comm. 1142: NOMINATION OF ANNETTE AIONA TO THE MERIT APPEALS BOARD From Mayor Mitchell D. Roth, dated October 21, 2024, requesting the Council's review and confirmation. Requires Council Confirmation by: December 4, 2024 (Section 13-4(k), Hawaii County Charter) GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 Motion to Close File: Mr. Inaba moved to close file on Comm. 1142. Seconded by Ms. Kimball. Vote on Comm. 1142: The motion to recommend confirmation of the nomination (Approved) of Ms. Annette Aiona to the Merit Appeals Board was was carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Inaba, Kagwaday Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewiez, Kimball, Villegas, and Chair Evans –7: Noes: None. Absent: Committee Member Galimba–1. Excused: None. Executive Assistant to the Mayor Pomaika`i Bartolome came forward and provided a brief narrative of the nominee's background,and experience. Committee Members spode in-favor of the appointment. Comm. 1143: NOMINATION OF GARY "GIGI"NAPOLEON TO THE POLICE COMMISSION From Mayor Mitchell D;Roth'. dated October 21, 2024, requesting the Council's review and confirmation: Requires Council Confirmation by: December 4, 2024 (Section 13-4(k), Hawaii County Charter) Motion to Close File: Mr. Inaba moved to close file on Comm. 1143. Seconded by Ms. Kagiwdda. Vote on Comm. 1143: — The motion to recommend confirmation of the nomination (Approved) of Mr. Gary "Digi"Napoleon to the Police Commission was was carriedby the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Inaba, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Villegas, and Chair Evans –7. Noes: None. Absent: Committee Member Galimba–1. Excused: None. Executive Assistant to the Mayor Pomaika`i Bartolome came forward and provided a brief narrative of the nominee's background and experience. Committee Members spoke in favor of the appointment. Page 2 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 Comm. 1144: NOMINATION OF GORDON TAKAKI TO THE WINDWARD PLANNING COMMISSION From Mayor Mitchell D. Roth, dated October 21, 2024, requesting the Council's review and confirmation. Requires Council Confirmation by: December 4, 2024 (Section 13-4(k), Hawaii County„Charter) Motion to Close File: Mr. Inaba moved to close file on Comm. 1144„ Seconded by Ms. Kagiwada. CHR. EVANS: To the Administration,please. (Note: At this time, Executive Assistant Pomaika`i Bartol6me and the Nominee, came forward to address the members of the Committee.) MS. BARTOLOME: On behalf of Mayor Roth, we are nominating Mr. Gordon Takaki to represent the At-LargeSouth Hilo seat, filling the vacancy left by Matthias Kusch"on'the Windward Planning Commission. Mr. Takaki has been a dedicated resident of Hawaii for the past 71 years, continuously engaged in various community organizations throughout his life. His career in the banking industry culminated with his role as District Manager at Citi Financial,where he gained invaluable experience in leadership, financial management, and strategic planning. Mr. Takaki remains a committed and active member of the community, volunteering his time With,organizations such as the Alzheimer's Association, Aawai`i Island Chamber of Commerce, Hilo Yacht Club, and Big Brothers Big Sisters If confirmed, he will serve a term ending December 31, 2028. And your favorable confirmation is requested. Mahalo. CHR. EVANS: Thank you. Mr. Takaki, would you like to offer comments? MR. TAKAKL This will be my first opportunity to serve in any capacity with the Council. So, I look forward to what I can contribute and not be an embarrassment to Pomai and everybody else. And of course, if you do approve it,to all of you also. CHR. EVANS: Thank you. Open to members. Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder. Page 3 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you, Chair. Good to see you, Mr. Takaki. I've known you for a long time and I've found you to be a very fair individual. And you're always pleasant in conversations. I'll be supporting your nomination today. You did hear my opening comment to all the applicants, and that holds true. But I will support your nomination. I found you to be very thoughtful and fair, and I like that about you. So, if you do get appointed, I look forward to seeing good decision-making on the Planning Commission and seeing how that proceeds. MR. TAKAKL Thank you. CHR. EVANS: Member Kimball. MS. KIMBALL: Thank you. So, a part of the Windward Planning Commission, of course, you wil[cover the Hamakua District, District I as well. And I'm just curious, there are two real priorities that I hear from m constituents, that I want to just get your feedback on. The first is the Community Development Plan., So, in terms of your role on the Planning Commission, hove woud you take into account the Community Development Plans (CDP)for all the districts that are covered by the commission. Secondly, continued ability to access open spaces. And so, as Special Management permits or Change of Zone permits come before the Windward Planning Commission, what are your thoughts on maintaining access to shoreline and other open spaces when reviewing those kinds of applications? MR. TAkAKL I will be over the next few weeks or however long my opportunity to serve in this capacity, I will be reviewing the commission. I have not"had an opportunity to do a deep dive into what tasks the commission does. So, I will certainly review it. But I am always looking for community access to whatever,affects the community in any way, shape or form. MS. KIMBALL: Thank you. Please do review the commission's kuleana, as well as the CDP if you don't mind taking a quick look at it. There was a lot of work that went in with community participation that went into the Community Development Plan. So, it's really important to take into account when decision-making at the Planning Commission. So, I just want to make sure that you have some awareness of that document and what it entails. And then like I said, one of the key issues for constituents in the Northern part of the district is that continued access, because it's more and more closed off. Page 4 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 Those are people's, you know, ice boxes. So, it's important to continue to have that access. I've also known you for a while, and I know you're a genuine and thoughtful individual. So, I'm happy to support your nomination. Look forward to hearing little more details about what you think you would do in the position next time. Alright, thank you. MS. VILLEGAS: Chair. CHR. EVANS: Member Villegas. MS. VILLEGAS: Thank you. Aloha, Mr. Takaki. 'I'm relieved and grateful to hear positive recommendations from Council;Members who seem to know you and have a history of working together. I have some concerns because I received a number of emails from constituents expressing their concerns for your appointment on the Windward Planning Commission. The Windward and Leeward Planning Commissions are some of the most impactful. Decisions that are made there as they relate to land use decisions determine the future of our island and land'use. And I wonder if you might be able to share with me what your understanding'of or what your responses would be, I'm not sure, what you have"heard. But I don't take it lightly when we get constituent letters expressing concerns about appointments to our planning commissions because they are so vital. So, would you mind sharing with me a little bit more about why that might be, and how your experience aligns you with expertise and land use decision-making. MR. TAKAKI: I think the most important thing in this capacity is to really understand the community: And the commuity comes first. What their opinion or how they feel towards anything affecting their lives; their land. And so, that's one of the things,I certainly will be looking at—not fully aware of what the planning commission really entails. I'll have to wait until I see exactly until I start doing the deep dive. And I know that's not an answer you're looking forward to. You're probably looking for a more detailed answer which I don't have right now. MS. VILLEGAS: Thank you, Mr. Takaki. I appreciate your honestly, ensuring thatwe've had other candidates come before us who have been as honest about their lack of understanding or knowledge; or having done the deep dive. And I've had some concerns about that scenario. And I unfortunately have some concerns about it. And here, on this one. So, my apologies, but I won't be supporting your nomination today. And I'll go ahead and yield for more comments from the rest of my counterparts. CHR. EVANS: Thank you. Member Kagiwada. Page 5 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 MS. KAGIWADA: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Takaki for putitng your name forward and for being here. Similar to some of my colleagues, I'd love for you to maybe do a little bit more reading up on what the commisson does. And also, specifically for District 2, Hilo, we don't have an updated CDP for Hilo. So, there are three different plans up on the Planning Department's webstie in lieu of those. We have a multimodal plan for Downtown Hilo; we have the Hilo Bayfront Trails, and we have the Envision Plan. And I'd love for you to just maybe take a look at those before the next meeting, so that you understand some of the direction that some of the Hilo residents have worked on. Especially, because we don't have an active body of people that can give feedback or anything like that. These plans are particularly important for the Hilo area. So, if you're able to do that, and maybe you know, watch a commission meeting or something. So, that you can come back and maybe give us a little bit more of about how you would interact, that would be really wonderful. And I will be voting to forward your name at this point. And love to hear a little more from you when we come back. Thank you so much. I yield. CHR. EVANS: Member Kierkiewicz. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you, Chair. Hi Mr. Takaki. Gordon, great to see you; known you for a number of years now: Really outstanding community leader. I don't think you're walking into this with any sort of agenda in mind. I think you have a real deep sense of wanting to do what's best for our community. And you're open to receiving information; evaluating all of it, right, all of it befor&You come to a decision. I think that's really important. I know that a'lot of the testifiers against your nomination have come from the Sierra Club, concerned about your ability to keep `aina in mind as we move through this General Plan review process. It`s the long-range blueprint that guide development on our island. I just waritto hear from you that when you make decisions as a planning commissioner, that you will take into consideration, the environment, the community; the fact that we need to sustain ourselves. There's so many different elements and variables that must be balanced. So, I just want to hear from you a little bit more of how you go about making these decisions with all these different points that you have to hold in mind. MR. TAKAKL That's one of the things that all of us in whatever capacity will have to do or should be doing whenever we make a decision. So, a decision involving the Planning Commission is to do a deep dive. As you said earlier, deep dive. Page 6 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 We have to take into consideration, the community. We have to take into consideration, the `aina. Everything. Not just because somebody said to prove it. No. We have to really look at it. Does this make sense? In some cases, it might not make sense to certain parties, and I would have to vote against it. They might not be happy about it. But, I need to make a decision that it is for the better of the community of the island; of our people. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Great. Thank you for confirming that you're not just going to be a rubberstamp; that you're going to do your homework, you're going to do the research. You're going to ask the tough questions, and you're going to be able to communicate, you know, where you stand'on,a position before you make a decision. Thank you for that. I really appreciate hearing it. I will be supporting your nomination. I yield. CHR. EVANS: Okay. Member Inaba. MR. INABA: Thank you. Mr. Takaki;Aust also want to point out to one of the duties of the planning commissions is to review legislation that changes our Subdivision or our Zoning Code. In some cases,, what I hear in your responses, is this common thread of being consistent and,16oking at what is best for the community. In some cases, legislation might come before you folks that is introduced by a member of the Council. And it could be either supported or opposed by the Administration,., So, I would just ask that, I think that's one of the peculiar positions that commissioners don't always find themselves in on a regular basis, but'it does happen. I would just ask and tune you in to the fact that I would hope that your continued balance and level-headed mindset would prevail there. And, ultimately, you're going to help make recommendations on policy decisions, whether it is in agreement or disagreement with the Administration. So, hoping you can stand strong in diose situations. MR. TAKAKL Will do. R. INABA: Thank you. CHR. EVANS: Thank you. Any further discussion? I did want to share with you that this is going to be a tricky balance because we need jobs, and the construction industry is part of our economy. I know the Chamber of Commerce is very aware that the economy is one of the key things we worry about on this island. But also, the affordable housing. And so, you know, there'll be projects maybe in areas that are going to offer Page 7 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 affordable housing. But you'll get pushed back by the community because we don't have roads. We've got places on the island where the backup and the traffic is so horrendous, that you're going to have community coming out saying, "No, no, no,"until you get the roads taken care of. There's a new issue that's come up that I want to point out. Floodplains. You know, we're having a problem with flooding because we keep hardening the surface, and the water's got to go somewhere. And so, there's a whole movement of people wanting to look at stormwater runoff, what does that really mean? Then our shorelines. You know, access for recreation and the public being able to get to the shoreline. So, the issues are really complicated. The thing I like about the planning commission°is that you get the first look at it. Because a lot of stuff that comes to the"Council, we send it off to the planning commission, and you get the first opportunity to look at it and get all the community feedback. And then you forward it with amendments or recommendations or you don't like it the way it is." And that's great. Because you got that first real down grassroot look at it. I think that's really great that you do that. But you know, right now, we're in this kind of balancing act of making sure the infrastructure is keeping up with the construction. And so, it really is a big challenge, and from my experience with watching the planning commission, you do a lot of reading 4nd a lot of background work. You have an open-door policy. You'll havepeople coming and knocking on your door andvisiting you and telling you what they think about it. So, I think you have thatspirit in you of openness and balance. And I think that's what you're going to have to look to. So, I'm supportive, and I don't have any more comments. So, we have a motion on the floor, all in favor? Vote on Comm. 1144: ! The motion to recommend confirmation of the nomination (Approved) of Mr. Gordon Takaki to the Windward Planning Commission was carried by the following roll call vote: Ayes: Committee Members Inaba, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, and Chair Evans —6. Noes: Committee Member Villegas — 1. Absent: Committee Member Galimba— 1. Excused: None. MS. EVANS: Thank you. Page 8 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 Comm. 1145: NOMINATION OF JOSHUA SZE TO THE VETERANS ADVISORY COMMITTEE From Mayor Mitchell D. Roth, dated October 21, 2024, requesting the Council's review and confirmation. Motion to Close File: Mr. Inaba moved to close file on Comm. 1145. Seconded by Ms. Kagiwada. Vote on Comm. 1145: The motion to recommend confirmation of the nomination (Approved) of Mr. Joshua Sze to the Veterans Advisory Committee was carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Inaba,Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball,; Villegas, and Chair Evans—7. Noes: None. Absent: Committee Member:Galimba 1 Excused: None. Executive Assistant to the Mayor Pomaika`i Bartolome came forward and provided a brief narrative of the nominee's background and experience. Committee Members spoke in favor of the appointment. ORDER OF The Acting Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, RESOLUTIONS: Order of Resolutions. Res. 691-24: URGES THE HAWAII HOUSING FINANCE AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION AND THE PLANNING DIRECTOR TO APPROVE THE KA LEI'M0MI LA AKILA HOMES AFFORABLE HOUSING PROJECT, LOCATED ON AN 8.65-ACRE PORTION OF THE PROPERTY IDENTIFIED BY TAX MAP KEY NO. 2-4-028:007 IN HILO, HAWAII, SUBJECT TO THE NINTH PROCLAMATION RELATING TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING ISSUED BY GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF HAWAII The Hawaii Public Housing Authority propose to construct 22 two-story buildings,to provide 257 affordable housing units to households earning 60 percent or less of the area median income. Reference: Comm. 1126 Intr. by: Ms. Kagiwada and Comm. 1126.1: From Council Member Jennifer Kagiwada, dated October 21, 2024, transmitting a request for a presentation from Highridge Costa and Form Partners. Page 9 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 (Note: Comm. 1126.2 from Council Member Jennifer Kagiwada dated November 4, 2024 transmitting a Power Point Presentation to Res. 691-24, was circulated.) Motion to Approve: Ms. Kagiwada moved to recommend adoption of Res. 691-24. Seconded by Mr. Inaba. MS. EVANS: Okay, turn it over to Member Kagiwada. MS. KAGIWADA: Thank you so much, Chair, Just bringing this to the Council. This was not a requirement. I think they just could have just gone to HHFDC (Hawai`i Housing Finance and Development Corporation),,and then to the Planning Director without going to Council-But I really wanted to highlight this program because I think it's really important, and it is also, I believe, the first project for our County anyway under the Governor's Affordable Housing Proclamation. So, it's really, I think a good project for us to look at, and hopefully, also support going forward to get more affordable housing built in our communities. And we have an array of folks here with a powerpoint to share about the project and then answer questions. They are the experts. So, if you don't mind, Chair, I will turn it over to our guests. (Note: At this time, Highridge Costs Sam Arico and Form Partners, Chrisbeuchar and Emfly Davids of the Ka Lei Momi Lanakila Homes Affordable Housing Project, came forward to address the members of the Committee and provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, see the DVD copy of the proceedings on ,file in"the Clerk's Office, or online at http:Hhawaiicountygranicus.com. A copy of the presentation is made part of the record, see Comm. 1126.2.) MS. EVANS: Member Kagiwada. MS. KAGIWADA: Thank you, Chair. So, happy you could come and share with the whole Council about this project. A couple things I wanted to just highlight. The issue of the community being served, I think, you went over that, Chris. But you know, although it is the lower end of the affordability spectrum, I think the discussions that we've had as you know, are not like voucher programs. It's not a voucher, necessarily. So, they will be paying. So,they're working people, they will be paying. So, I think we've talked about this. As workforce housing, not always the way that we think of workforce housing of being that 80 to 120, or 140 percent, Page 10 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 perhaps. But workforce housing in the way that they will be working people paying their own rent. The community spaces, I was able to go to the first community meeting that they held and held at the existing public housing. I thought it was really interesting. The main issues there from the public were, this looks so nice, can we move over there from where we are, and can we share some of these services? Which to the answer of sharing some of the services like the outdoor-space and stuff, was "yes." So, I think that's a really nice thing to be doing for the existing community as well, as being able to provide some of these community spaces that everybody in the area can use. I did want to just mention that you probably,know, but we have a change of Administration coming or kind of right in the middle of it. I'm'happy to work with you and help to smooth over whatever needs to be smooth, since this is in my district. And hope to keep this,ontrack. I also just want to mention that we do have both Housing and Planning here to answer any questions about this project. And I'd love to actually get Housing and Planning up here just to maybe say a few words to say, you know, your feelings on this project would be great as well. If I can ask you guys to come up. Go ahead, Administrator Kunz. (Note: At this time, Office of Housing and Community Development Administrator Susan Kunz, came forward to address the members of the Committee.) MS. KUNZ: Good afternoon, Susan Kunz, Office of Housing. The Office of Housing and Community Development(OHCD) has been working with HPHA (Hawaii Public Housing Authority) Form Partners, and now of course, Highridge Partners on this particular project for several years. And we a hundred percent support the development of this project. We've been involved from the very beginning. So, we really appreciate the inclusiveness and the partnership on this. So, this group also presented this plan to Hawaii Public Housing Authority several weeks ago. At which time, the board fully approved this plan. So, on the State side, there's support for this. MS. KAGIWADA: Great. Thank you so much for sharing that information. (Note: At this time, Planning Deputy Director Jeff Darrow, came forward to address the members of the Committee.) Page 11 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 MR. DARROW: Good afternoon, Jeff Darrow with the Planning Department. We've also been involved in meetings with the partners, as well as OHCD with this project. Tremendous project,just 258 affordable units in the middle of Hilo. We are involved in this because of this unique Affordable Housing Emergency Proclamation that changed up the process that we're normally a part of in the 201H application. And in this particular change in proclamation, instead of it going to the Council through approval through resolution, they have changed it to be approved through the Planning Director. But in the spirit of collaboration, with everyone,we,felt like this needs to be done with the Council involved in reviewing this,,and supporting it, and chiming in on whatever you know, they have to offer through this. But we're very supportive of this project as well. Thank you. MS. KAGIWADA: Thank you so much. With that, I want to say,I'm enthusiastically in support of this project and would love to hear from my colleagues. Thank you, Chair. CHR. EVANS: Okay, members, I have questions. Member Kaneali`i- Kleinfelder. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you. Thank you for the presentation. I have been watching this parcel with interestwondering what's going on with it. And it's good to hear the details'so I know. Iguess it's a good project. We need the housing in:Hilo, that's straightforward. You have the infrastructure available. The traffic in this area is not intense and it'll fit. The Police Department is down the street. You have schools nearby, beautiful. I'm looking at the exemptions that are being requested. Is that pertinent to discussion today,. Yes, no maybe? MS. KUNZ: I mean,I think you should ask questions. So, you can understand what you're supporting. But the process is going to go through HHFDC. So, but I think you should ask. MR. KAEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay. Regarding the 40-foot right-of-way versus 24-foot, 22-foot aisle widths. The reason being we're looking to maximize the number of housing units for both exemptions here requested. I'm just wondering what the underlying reason is. I'm saying that in mind of multimodal transportation, walkable communities, creating a safe space for keiki and families. But looking at some of the things that create those abilities for people to get around the community. MR. DEUCHAR: Mahalo for the question. Real quick,just starting off, all of these exemptions that we're asking for. It's generally, pretty typical, and most Page 12 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 affordable housing projects we're doing across the State to ask for relief on certain things. Particularly related to density that we're trying to add. So, a lot of these elements come from the fact that we're driving for a greater density. Having said that, the reason there's a roadway, we're asking that, currently the roads that are there now are 40-feet right-of-way. We're asking that they stay the same that they are now, so that there's not additional takings where we have to tightened the site, if you will. Because again, you know,, we've got two roadways that are bisecting the site, which is presenting challenges from a design standpoint. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: So, the request�for exemptions is allowing to keep the existing 40-foot right-of-way. MR. DEUCHAR: Yes, we're hoping to just keep the roads the way they are now versus widening them to 50-foot; MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: That makes sense. MR. DEUCHAR: We don't see a lot of through traffic. I mean, most of the traffic that we anticipate on both of those roads are,just people that are coming home. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER:' As far as removing sidewalks, curbs, gutters, usually these are expensive versus being problematic. MR. DEUCHAR,: Sorry, in terms of—? MR. IKANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Gutters. Allow deviation from the design standards related to sidewalk, curb, and gutter, and bike lanes. MR. DEUCHAR: Again, the site's very tight with what we're working with. So, we're looking at same areas to have sidewalks narrower. I mean they would still fit ADA(Americans with Disabilities Act) Code, and you know, from that standpoint: But there's certain areas where we're looking for relief from those items as well as like setbacks from the roadway. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: So, not a removal of but a lessening of. MR. DEUCHAR: We're not removing sidewalks. MR. ARICO: We would have to pretty much completely revamp what's existing. But there's no, you know, sidewalks that we're keeping necessarily. We want to keep the road width, but we have to repave the road and stuff like that. Page 13 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay. Is there a walkable space between housing units and roadways? MR. DEUCHAR: Yes, there's sidewalks. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you. That's what I was shooting for. As far as the parking, a little bit concerning. I keep looking at this number and I don't know where it comes from, but it seems to be one-and-a-half cars per unit. It's what you're proposing, but I see that across the board. But I find that problematic, because most families have at least two cars. So, recognizing that, I understand it's going to be a challenge, you're limited on space. MR. ARICO: I think to that point, we really tried to strive and pretty sure meaning it to have two spaces for every larger bedroom unit for the two and three bedrooms. So, larger families will have, youknow, two spaces. And Ithink, a minimum one space for a one-bedroom unit; with some extra visitor parking and stuff like that. So, loud and clear, we definitely want to make sure it's adequately parked, and we're trying to, at least for the larger bedrooms for families that have two cars, two spaces. MR. DEUCHAR: I hear you loud and clear. That's one of the things that we struggle with across the board and all of our sites is what's the right amount of parking?' We want to have enough for our residents, where it doesn't become a problem where they're parking'on streets or having to walk distances. But at the same time, we're also trying to encourage, you know, people to start biking; using public transportation and things of that nature. So, it's something that we've been grabbling,with and working towards. We're trying to maximize what we can per the density. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay, good. And then, are you incorporating renewable energy into this project? What kind? MR. DEUCHAR: Definitely. Solar for sure. We're looking at having solar maybe across some of the parking areas, obviously, where it helps too when it's raininghere. Like provide some relief. Our water heaters, we're going to be lead. We've worked towards lead-silver, I think on these. MR. ARICO: Lead-silver at a minimum. We might not get certified, but we'll build it to that level. MR. DEUCHAR: It's kind of a mandate. We do it as well, but the Hawaii Public Housing Authority is very passionate about pushing that and trying to Page 14 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 move it even beyond the silver in some instances. So, that's kind of where development in general is going. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Good, that's intelligent. So, solar for individual units or solar to just cover common areas? MR. DEUCHAR: Common areas. MR. ARICO: You usually don't generate enough offset to do individual offset. And if it was it would be like cents. You spread it across all 258 units. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: It's difficult. It's been done. MR. DEUCHAR: Some of these sites do that we're developing with HPHA. I mean, there's homes that have been in many of these locations for 70 years, and we recognize what we rebuild now is probably going to be there for the same amount of time, 50, 60, 70 years or longer. So, we definitely have an eye on the future to keep doing what we can where we can because it makes a huge difference over the term of, you know, how 16ng these homes will be there. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINVELDER: The property Was yield, or this is a lease, or what's the deal? MR. DEUCHAR: Ground lease. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Ground lease. Okay, thank you very much, I yield,Chair. CHR. EVANS: Member Kierkiewicz. M& KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you, Chair. I just have a need for clarification about the process in light of the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). So, I'm familiar with 201H, and there is a process where you apply with HHFDC, the State process. And then there's the process where it comes before the County Council. So, I'm just struggling to understand if this is an application to the State H,HFDC. Where does the County Council fit into the equation? MIS. ARICO: I think I can answer that. So, typically, you hit it on the head. You can apply either for 201H either through the State or to the County. When you do apply to the State, you still have to get County Council approval at the end. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Got it, okay. Page 15 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 MR. ARICO: What's happening through the Emergency Proclamation in an effort to speed things up, they've allowed that instead of going through HHFDC, you don't have to go to Council as the second step. The Planning Director can sign off on it. But as mentioned earlier, you know, we want to be open and transparent and work with you all. So, that's why we're here today, is to hopefully, you know, garner your support. And I think it will help the Planning Director as well to feel comfortable to approve the project. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Great. So, this is a courtesy visit. I appreciate that, and I think a lot of the exemptions that have been asked here are typically what we see of folks that are seeking 201H approval. I noticed here with your financing application, is this something that is guaranteed? Because if you don't get the HHFDC financing, how are you able to move forward if at all? MR. DEUCHER: We're not. So, the financing is key element to this project, or you know, any of the projects that are submitted to HHFDC. So, in the program as described, I think we were here about a year ago with Mo Mohanna, who's president of Highridge Costa and kind of shared; We also had HHFDC was on the call as well remoter and kind of walked through that program. But it is over-subscribed, you know, substantially, So, it's very competitive. Obviously, you know, projects like this, it would be great to be affordable for such a long-term and working with the State. But it''s a competitive process. MR, ARICO: I think too, it's just important to note, because this is a partnership with HPHA, you know, there are some Federal resources that are available that can help make these projects more competitive just because it relies less on State financing to get these deals built. So, while we don't have that explicably laid out, you know,there are some advantages for these types of projects. So, you know, which is why we feel like these are going to be some pretty competitive projects when we apply. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Does it give your application more points to have a resolution, you know, from the Council and to also get Planning Director approval? MR. DEUCHAR: I don't know if we get more points, but it is very much looked upon, you know, if we have support, it certainly helps. It's one of the things we include in the applications. MR. ARICO: Right now, it's a threshold item, so, if we don't have it we can't apply. At least having, you know, valid entitlements. So, we need it to apply, at least for right now. Page 16 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Okay. And then, is there an expiration for the 201H. Let's say you don't get financing from HHFDC this year. Knock on wood, hope you do. But if you don't, can you apply again next time? And what is being granted to the 201H exemptions? Will that still apply to future dates? MR. DEUCHAR: Typically, we get two to three years. I think, usually what the County will stipulate what the 201H is good for. I think they can choose any number or the Director can. I have to check on that.. But typically, and oftentimes, when we can't get it, we'll still go back and just ask for it to be extended; and of course, get Council's and you know,,everyone's support of extending that. Because everybody wants the affordable housing. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: I'd like to see something there. I went to school at Saint Joseph, and it was a problem then. And that was many years aged, I assure you. So, it'll be really fantastic to see'something finally happening. And you know, just bringing in more housing. And it's beautiful housing. And it's really creating a sense of community right in the hurt of Hilo. So, fully onboard and support, and thank you for helping to explain all the details with the EP MR. DEUCHAR Mahalo for your questions"and your support. CHR. EVANS: Okay. Thank you,members, And'thank you so much for being here and sharing. It's really good to know about this project. Thank you for bringing itforward, because this is a template for hopefully, others to come. So, thank you. You want to speak to your resolution? MS:'KAGIWADA: No,just looking for everybody's support. CHR. EVANS: Okay,wehave a motion on the floor to forward Res. 691-24 to full Council with a favorable recommendation. All in favor? Any opposed? Vote on Res. 691-24: The motion'to recommend adoption of Res. 691-24 was (Approved), carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Inaba, Kagiwada, Kdneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Villegas, and Chair Evans —7. Noes: None. Absent: Committee Member Galimba—1. Excused: None. Page 17 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 Res. 693-24: APPROVES THE LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS AND PRIORITIES FOR INCLUSION IN THE 2025 HAWAII STATE ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES LEGISLATIVE PACKAGE Includes proposals relating to the regulation of tobacco products, deferred retirement for Police, the environment, cesspools, general excise tax, conveyance tax, and housing; and nine policy priorities relating to: (1) increasing funds for emergency preparedness; (2) lowering the cost and expanding the availability of insurance for homeowners and businesses; (3) workforce development; (4) game management of wild ungulates; (5)promoting producer responsibility for solid waste,(6)prioritizing and promoting safe routes to school; (7) increasing food security and access to locally-produced food; (8) improving public safety, expanding and access to mental health resources, and establishing community courts, and (9) preventing and combatting squatters and supporting property owners and communities impacted by squatters. Reference: Comm.,1128 Intr. by: Ms.Kimball and Comm. 1128.1: From Council Member Heather L. Kimball, dated'Oetober 24, 2024, transmitting a proposed amendment to Exhibit A of Resolution 693-24. Motion to Approve: Ms. Kimball moved to recommend adoption of Res. 693-24. Seconded by Mr. Inaba. CHR, EVANS: Member Kimball. MS. KIMBALL: 'Yes, thank you. So, this is the package as agreed upon by the HSAC Executive Committee. As mentioned, each Council puts forward recommendations. The Executive Committee approves it, and then it comes back. Okay, you've seen,all of this before with the exception of the first bill relating to deferred retirement for Police. This was proposed by Maui County and was accepted by HSAC as part of the package. What you will see missing; the HSAC Executive Committee did not approve the bill to o a bulk transfer from State Land Use Ag to State Land Use Rural. So, that'is no longer included. I did not support the Midwifery bills, so that is no longer included. And the other one, Agricultural Tourism bill was not included. So, those from the Hawaii County were not included. I do have an amendment. If I can make that real quickly? Motion to Amend: Ms. Kimball moved to amend Res. 693-24, with the contents of Comm. 1128.1. Seconded by Ms. Kagiwada. Page 18 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 CHR. EVANS: Member Kimball. MS. KIMBALL: Thank you. The only difference here is, we did get a new version of the GE(General Excise) Tax extension bill, that's a little cleaner from the State drafters, after the submission date for this resolution. So, we're just swapping that out. The same content to make the same amendments. It's just a cleaner bill. So, I ask for my colleagues' support. CHR. EVANS: Member Kagiwada. MS. KAGIWADA: I just wanted to mention:on the Midwifery bill, Maui is taking it up and is going to be putting it forward in their County package. We don't generally do a County package. But twill probably be bringing forth a standalone resolution from our County to support midwifery in'all its forms that we've talked about before. You know, as a County with a lot of rural areas, you know. CHR. EVANS: Sorry, it's Point of Order. Yeah, we're on the amendment right now. MS. KAGIWADA: Oh;,sorry. CHR. EVANS: But thank you for your comment. But we're on the amendment, and it's the GE Tax. So, all in favor? Vote on Motion The motion to amend Res. 693-24, with the contents of to Amend: Comm. 1128.1 was carried by the following voice vote: (Approved) Ay es: Committee Members Inaba, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, and Chair Evans —6. Noes: None. Absent: Committee Members Galimba and Villegas —2. Excused: None. CHR. EVANS: Thank you. Back to the main motion. Member Kagiwada, do you want to finish? MS. KAGIWADA: Sorry, yeah,just that I'll be bringing that forward. I think it's really important for our County specifically, so we can discuss it at that time. Thank you, I yield. CHR. EVANS: Thank you. Members, any other comments? Seeing none, we have a motion. All in favor? Any opposed? Page 19 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 Vote on Res. 693-24: The motion to recommend adoption of Res. 693-24, as Draft 2 amended to Draft 2, was carried by the following voice vote: (Approved) Ayes: Committee Members Inaba, Kagiwada, Kdneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, and Chair Evans —6. Noes: None. Absent: Committee Members Galimba and Villegas —2. Excused: None. CHR. EVANS: Okay, we're back to the first one on the agenda. Return to Order The Chair directed the Committee to returnto the order of business. of Business: COMMUNI- The Chair directed the Committee to proceed to the next order of business, CATIONS: Communications. Comm. 10.10: HAWAII STATE ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES' JULY 18 AND AUGUST 22, 2024, EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES AND OFFICER'S REPORTS, From Council Member Heather Kimball, dated October 8, 2024. Motion to Close File: Ms. Kimball moved to close file on Comm. 10.10. Seconded by Ms. Kagiwada. CHR, EVANS: Member Kimball. MS. KIMBALL: Just, as usual, providing a minutes for approval from the HSAC Executive Committee meeting. Thank you. CHR: EVANS: Okay, we don't forward this, correct? It's just closing the communication. Okay, thank you. So, we have a motion on the floor. All in favor? Any opposed? Vote on Comm. 10.10: The motion to close file on Comm. 10.10 was carried by Filed the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Inaba, Kagiwada, Kdneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, and Chair Evans —6. Noes: None. Absent: Committee Members Galimba and Villegas —2. Excused: None. Page 20 GOEAC-42 November 7,2024 ADJOURN- Seeing no further business, Chair Evans adjourned the meeting at 2:38 p.m. MENT: Approved: Ms. Cindy Evans, Chair (Date) Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs CE/dt Page 21