HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN COUNCIL 2024-11-20 2022-2024 Hawaii County Council
52nd Session
West Hawaii Civic Center
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building A
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
November 20, 2024
INVOCATION: Pastor Jason Meechan of Kona Faith Center gave the morning's invocation.
CALL TO The regular meeting of the Hawaii County Council was called to order at
ORDER: 9:02 a.m., in the Council Chambers, Kailua-Kona, by Ms. Heather L. Kimball,
Chair.
ROLL CALL:
Present: Ms. Heather L. Kimball, Chair
Mr. Holeka Goro Inaba, Vice Chair
Ms. Cindy Evans, Member
Ms. Michelle M. Galimba, Member
Ms. Jenn Kagiwada, Member (via videoconference from Hilo)
Mr. Matt Kdneali`i-Kleinfelder, Member (via videoconference from Hilo; came in
later)
Ms. Ashley L. Kierkiewicz, Member(came in later)
Ms. Rebecca Villegas, Member
PLEDGE OF The Chair directed the Council to the next order of business, Pledge of
ALLEGIANCE: Allegiance.
(At this time, County Clerk Jon Henricks led the Council in
the Pledge of Allegiance.)
PETITIONS, The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Petitions,
MEMORIALS, Memorials, Certificates of Merit, and Expressions of Condolence.
CERTIFICATES
OF MERIT, AND (Note: At this time, Mr. Inaba presented the November 2024 Hdweo Award to
EXPRESSIONS OF Fire/Emergency Medical Services Specialist Kilipaki Kanae of the Hawaii Fire
CONDOLENCE: Department.)
Recess: At 9:11 a.m., the Chair called for a recess.
Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 9:14 a.m.
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
STATEMENTS The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business,
FROM THE Statements from the Public on Agenda Items.
PUBLIC ON
AGENDA ITEMS: The following individuals registered to speak and came forward when called by
the Chair:
Karen Eoff: Res. 719-24 (Comm. 1166), in support.
(representing Kohanaiki
`Ohana)
Antu Harvey: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
Cory Harden: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
(See Comm. 896.230)
Eileen O'Hara: Res. 711-24 (Comm. 1156);
(representing Malama O Puna) Res. 712-24 (Comm. 1157);
Res. 716-24 (Comm. 1163);
Res. 717-24 (Comm. 1164); and
Res. 718-24 (Comm. 1165), in support.
Lamaku Mikahala Roy: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), comment.
(See Comm. 896.248)
Hannah Hartmann: Res. 715-24 (Comm. 1161), in support.
Timothy Rowan: Res. 711-24 (Comm. 1156);
(representing Black Sands Res. 712-24 (Comm. 1157);
Beach Property Owners Res. 716-24 (Comm. 1163);
Association and Malama Res. 717-24 (Comm. 1164); and
O Puna) Res. 718-24 (Comm. 1165), in support.
Jade Kailiula Avery-Niihau: Res. 711-24 (Comm. 1156), comment.
Kasey Kuulei Avery: Res. 711-24 (Comm. 1156), comment.
Carrie Kowalski: Res. 711-24 (Comm. 1156), comment.
(representing Black Sands
Beach Property Owners
Association)
Renee Robinson: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
Joel Gimpel: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
(representing Pualani Estates (See Comm. 896.228)
at Kona)
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Rebecca Melendez: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
(See Comm. 896.244)
John Powell: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
(See Comm. 896.247)
Janice Palma-Glennie: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
Ellie Moss: Res. 715-24 (Comm. 1161), in support.
(representing Perpetual)
Jesse Potter: Res. 723-24 (Comm. 1170), in support.
(representing P6h5h5 I Ka
Lani)
Janice Palma-Glennie: (Note: Due to technical difficulties experienced
earlier, Ms. Palma-Glennie was allowed to
continue her testimony on Bill 169, Draft 3)
Jennifer Navarra: Res. 715-24 (Comm. 1161), in support.
(representing Zero Waste
Hawaii Island)
David Blancett-Maddock: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
Daniel Malakie: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
Lou Putzel: Res. 725-24 (Comm. 1172), in support.
(Friends of Amy B. H.
Greenwell Ethnobotanical
Garden)
Elizabeth Dunn: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
(See Comm. 896.224)
Chuck Flaherty: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
(representing Sierra Club — (See Comm. 896.245)
Hawaii Island Group)
Andrea Wernli: Res. 709-24 (Comm. 1154), in support.
(representing Hawaii Island
Adult Care)
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Diga Kern: Res. 716-24 (Comm. 1163);
(representing Malama O Puna Res. 717-24 (Comm. 1164);
and Hawaii Environmental Res. 718-24 (Comm. 1165); and
Restoration) Res. 719-24 (Comm. 1166); in support.
Keoni Fox: Res. 720-24 (Comm. 1167);
(representing Ala Kahakai Res. 721-24 (Comm. 1168);
Trail Association) Res. 722-24 (Comm. 1169); and
Res. 724-24 (Comm. 1171); in support.
Janice Kerr: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
(See Comm. 896.237)
Clare Loprinzi: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
(See Comm. 896.239)
Noelle Lindenmann: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
(See Comm. 896.238)
Janet Matlock: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
(See Comm. 896.241)
Peter Matlock: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
(See Comm. 896.242)
Paulette Kaala Robenson: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
Kiana Kanahele: Res. 708-24 (Comm. 1153);
Res. 711-24 (Comm. 1156);
Res. 715-24 (Comm. 1161);
Res. 716-24 (Comm. 1163);
Res. 717-24 (Comm. 1164);
Res. 718-24 (Comm. 1165); and
Res. 723-24 (Comm. 1170); in support.
Anita Barker: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
Simmy McMichael: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
(See Comm. 896.243)
John Bennett: Bill 169, Draft 3 (Comm. 896.148), in opposition.
Change Order As directed by the Chair and with no objection from the Council Members, the
of Business: following items were taken out of order:
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
GOEAC-164 NOMINATION OF ANNETTE AIONA TO THE MERIT APPEALS BOARD
(Comm. 1142):
Requires Council
Confirmation by: December 4, 2024 (Section 13-4(k),
Hawaii County Charter)
(Note: Comm. 1142.1, from Mayor Mitchell D. Roth dated November 18, 2024,
withdrawing Ms. Aiona's nomination to the Merit Appeals Board, was
circulated.)
Withdraw CHR. KIMBALL: Before I take a motion, we have received a communication
GOEAC-164: from the Mayor's office, Communication 1142.1, withdrawing this nomination.
So the Council will take no action today, and this will not be subject to the 45-day
limit.
GOEAC-165 NOMINATION OF GARY "GIGI"NAPOLEON TO THE POLICE
(Comm. 1143): COMMISSION
Requires Council
Confirmation by: December 4, 2024 (Section 13-4(k),
Hawaii County Charter)
(Note: Comm. 1143.1, from Mayor Mitchell D. Roth dated November 18, 2024,
withdrawing Mr. Napoleon's nomination to the Police Commission, was
circulated.)
Withdraw CHR. KIMBALL: Similarly, we have received a communication from the
GOEAC-165: Mayor's office, (Communication) 1143.1, withdrawing the nomination of
Gary Napoleon. So the Council will take no action on this item, and it will not be
subject to the automatic approval.
GOEAC-166 NOMINATION OF GORDON TAKAKI TO THE WINDWARD PLANNING
(Comm. 1144): COMMISSION
Requires Council
Confirmation by: December 4, 2024 (Section 13-4(k),
Hawaii County Charter)
Motion to Approve: Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Governmental Operations and
External Affairs Committee Report No. 166. Seconded by
Ms. Kierkiewicz.
(Council Member Villegas said she is not in support of Mr. Takaki's nomination
and requested that a roll call vote be taken.)
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Vote on The motion to adopt Governmental Operations and
GOEAC-166: External Affairs Committee Report No. 166 was carried by
(Adopted) the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kagiwada, Kierkiewicz, and Chair Kimball—6.
Noes: Council Member Villegas — 1.
Absent: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder— 1.
Excused: None.
GOEAC-167 NOMINATION OF JOSHUA SZE TO THE VETERANS ADVISORY
(Comm. 1145): COMMITTEE
Vote on Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Governmental Operations and
GOEAC-167: External Affairs Committee Report No. 167. Seconded by
(Adopted) Ms. Galimba and carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kagiwada, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder— 1.
Excused: None.
(Council Member Evans thanked Mr. Sze for his willingness to serve.)
Res. 691-24: URGES THE HAWAII HOUSING FINANCE AND DEVELOPMENT
CORPORATION AND THE PLANNING DIRECTOR TO APPROVE THE
KA LEI MOMI LANAKILA HOMES AFFORDABLE 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
Approve: GOEAC-168
Motion to Approve: Ms. Kagiwada moved to adopt Res. 691-24 and
Governmental Operations and External Affairs Committee
Report No. 168. Seconded by Ms. Kierkiewicz.
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Kagiwada.
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
MS. KAGIWADA: I think we had good discussion, and we had a presentation in
Committee. So, unless there are further questions, I'm ready to go.
CHR. KIMBALL: Okay, thank you. Any further discussion? Seeing none, all
those in favor please say "aye."
Vote on Res. 691-24: The motion to adopt Res. 691-24 and Governmental
(Adopted) Operations and External Affairs Committee Report No. 168
was carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kagiwada, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder— 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 692-24: AUTHORIZES THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT TO AWARD FUNDS TO THE
LEILANI ESTATES NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH THROUGH THE
GEOTHERMAL RELOCATION AND COMMUNITY BENEFITS PROGRAM
FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO LEILANI ESTATES COMMUNITY PARK
Provides $435,000 in grant funds to support the revitalization efforts to the Leilani
Estates Community Park.
Reference: Comm. 1127
Intr. by: Ms. Kierkiewicz
Approve: FC-211
Motion to Approve: Ms. Kierkiewicz moved to adopt Res. 692-24 and Finance
Committee Report No. 211. Seconded by Mr. Inaba.
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Kierkiewicz.
MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you. We had a really comprehensive discussion in
Committee. Looking for everyone's continued support of this one-time grant
utilizing geothermal community benefit funds to support revitalization of
Leilani Estates Community Park, which was severely impacted because of the
2018 eruption. Thank you, I yield.
CHR. KIMBALL: Any further discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor please
say "aye."
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Vote on Res. 692-24: The motion to adopt Res. 692-24 and Finance Committee
(Adopted) Report No. 211 was carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kagiwada, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder— 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 693-24: APPROVES THE LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS AND PRIORITIES FOR
(Draft 2) 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. 1128.2
Intr. by: Ms. Kimball
Approve: GOEAC-169
Motion to Approve: Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Res. 693-24, Draft 2, and
Governmental Operations and External Affairs Committee
Report No. 169. Seconded by Ms. Kierkiewicz.
CHR. KIMBALL: I just ask for my colleagues' support. We had a discussion
about this in previous sessions. Any further discussion? Seeing none, all those in
favor please say "aye."
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Vote on Res. 693-24: The motion to adopt Res. 693-24, Draft 2, and
Draft 2 Governmental Operations and External Affairs Committee
(Adopted) Report No. 169 was carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kagiwada, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder— 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 694-24: AUTHORIZES THE OFFICE OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT TO AWARD FUNDS TO VARIOUS ORGANIZATIONS FOR
PROGRAMS ADDRESSING AFFORDABLE HOUSING
Allows for grant awards to Hale Ola O Mohouli LLLP ($3,200,000) and Kuakini
Family I LP ($5,000,000) for the development of affordable rental units and
$5,075,000 to be retained by the Office of Housing and Community Development
for the development of 25 single-family dwellings for workforce housing
($4,200,000) and to provide financial assistance to 17 low-income homeowners to
conduct essential repair work($875,000).
Reference: Comm. 1129
Intr. by: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder(B/R)
Approve: FC-212
(Note: Comm. 1129.2, from Housing Administrator Susan Kunz, Office of
Housing and Community Development, dated November 14, 2024, requesting the
withdrawal of Res. 694-24, was circulated.)
CHR. KIMBALL: We have received Communication 1129.2 from the office of
housing requesting the withdrawal of the resolution. I'm happy to answer any
questions about it, but they are going to have to make some adjustments to the
contracts, which would significantly change the resolution. And on the advice of
Corporation Counsel, it was suggested that they provide a new resolution rather
than trying to amend this one. So we'll take no action on this item today.
MR. HENRICKS: The matter is withdrawn?
Withdraw CHR. KIMBALL: Yes, the matter is withdrawn.
Res. 694-24:
MR. HENRICKS: Thank you.
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Res. 714-24: AUTHORIZES THE ACCEPTANCE OF A DONATION OF A MURAL TO THE
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION
The donation from The Ironman Group, with an estimated value of$20,000, would
be painted on the walls, stairs, and ground of the Hale Halawai Park Center in
Kailua-Kona.
Reference: Comm. 1160
Intr. by: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder(B/R)
Waived: FC
Vote on Res. 714-24: Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Res. 714-24. Seconded by
(Adopted) Ms. Galimba and carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kagiwada, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder— 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 715-24: AUTHORIZES THE PAYMENT OF FUNDS OF A LATER FISCAL YEAR AND
OF MORE THAN ONE FISCAL YEAR FOR A MULTI-YEAR AGREEMENT
FOR A CITY-SCALE REUSABLE FOODWARE AND BOTTLE SYSTEM FOR
THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
Authorizes the Mayor to enter into a three-year agreement, with an option to extend
for two additional one-year periods, to establish reusable foodware and refillable
bottle systems in Hilo.
Reference: Comm. 1161
Intr. by: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder(B/R)
Waived: FC
Motion to Approve: Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Res. 715-24. Seconded by
Ms. Galimba.
CHR. KIMBALL: Any discussion? Yes, Council Member Evans.
MS. EVANS: I have a question for Corporation Counsel on the agreement.
CHR. KIMBALL: Why don't you state your question as Corporation Counsel is
walking to the podium.
(Note: At this time, Corporation Counsel Elizabeth Strance came forward
to address the members of the Council.)
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
MS. EVANS: So this has come up before on a CRF (Contingency Relief Fund)
project that I was involved in. When we get out a grant for someone that is
developing, like in this instance it says, "a city-scale reusable foodware refillable
bottle system," in our contracts does the County have the right to get the benefit
of that, which means—for example, if there's studies done, if there's reporting
done, if there's data collection done, does that become property of the County, or
does it stay as property with the nonprofit? Or do both get it? I think we pay to
get really good things done, and I'm wondering if we also get kind of the
ownership of that by-product.
MS. STRANCE: Good morning. Elizabeth Strance, Corporation Counsel. I
think it would depend on the type of grant. So, if we're doing a professional
services agreement, then somebody's doing something on behalf of the County.
If we're awarding a grant for something, generally we're awarding it to an
organization to do their own project separate and apart. So, in those situations,
the County doesn't retain any ownership right to the information.
Sometimes, contracts will, as in the case with the Waiwai grants, there's reporting
requirements. And there are measurables that have been associated with the grant
application and grant award. And so the County would receive some information,
but it doesn't have ownership of the data collected or the results of the projects.
Normally, we would ask for reports.
But I'm not familiar enough with this particular resolution and how the contract is
intended to be set up, whether it's a—not a pass-through grant where the County
would be doing it, but for lack of resources. And so we contracted out, and the
contract might be different. But I just don't know enough about this. It's just not
possible to say, across the board, "Yes, we do" or"No, we don't."
MS. EVANS: Right. That's why I was wondering, because again, I've given
money to nonprofits and wondered. It's taxpayer dollars. It's to the nonprofits
for really good work. But some of that data and information would be beneficial
to our County employees or staff or whatever, what we might be working on, and
just wondered are we doing it just because it's become the norm? I'm just
wondering if it's just—we haven't thought about it and really drilled down on it.
MS. STRANCE: That would be speculation on my part. But normally, we award
grants because the County has determined there's a direct benefit to the County in
the program or service being offered in the grant. And that is the benefit to the
County, not necessarily the data that is collected from the grant.
MS. EVANS: Okay. I think it's
MS. KAGIWADA: Chair?
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Evans, if I may, I'm going to let Council
Member Kagiwada speak to this because this is actually not, as I understand
it, a County grant. So maybe, if it's okay, I'll give the floor to Council
Member Kagiwada, and she can explain the arrangement that's happening here.
Go ahead, Council Member Kagiwada.
MS. KAGIWADA: Thank you, Chair. I just wanted to say I have Deputy
Director from DEM (Department of Environmental Management) here. And she
can maybe speak directly to this, as they've been the active department working
on this project. Thank you.
(Note: At this time, Environmental Management Deputy Director Brenda
Iokepa-Moses came forward to address the members of the Council.)
MS. IOKEPA-MOSES: Thank you. Brenda Iokepa-Moses, Deputy Director.
We are so privileged to have an opportunity to partner up with Zero Waste
Hawaii and Perpetual to facilitate this $1.5 million EPA (Environmental
Protection Agency) grant. And we're part of this collaboration with them. Of
course, we're going to be sharing information, but this is an EPA grant that
Perpetual and Zero Waste is taking the lead on, and we're just happy to be part of
it. This multi-year lease, like has been explained by Jennifer Zelko, is imperative
to have some security for a few years for whoever is taking a zero dollar amount
contract in order for them to have some flexibility to make this work.
MS. EVANS: Okay.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Deputy. Council Member Evans, any further
questions? No? All right, anyone in Hilo? Seeing no further comments, all those
in favor of approving Resolution 715-24,please say "aye."
Vote on Res. 715-24: The motion to adopt Res. 715-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz,
Villegas, and Chair Kimball—8.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
STATEMENTS The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business,
FROM THE Statements from the Public.
PUBLIC ON
BILL 169 The following individual registered to speak and came forward when called by
(DRAFT 3) the Chair:
(COMM. 896.148):
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Renee Inaba: In opposition.
(See Comm. 896.235)
Bill 169: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 02-131, WHICH AMENDED ORDINANCE
(Draft 3) NOS. 97-99, 94-34, 93-26, 91-96, 90-62, 88-4, 84-42, AND 84-23, WHICH
RECLASSIFIED CERTAIN LANDS FROM UNPLANNED (U) TO
MULTIPLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL-5,000 SQUARE FEET (RM-5) AND
SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL- 15,000 SQUARE FEET (RS-15) AT
HOLUALOA 1 AND 2, NORTH KONA, HAWAII, COVERED BY TAX MAP
KEYS: 7-6-021:004, 009-013, AND 015-017 (Applicant: Kona Three, LLC)
(Area: approx. 175 acres)
The Leeward Planning Commission forwards its unfavorable recommendation for
the applicant's request for a 10-year time extension to Condition I(Complete
Construction of the First Increment on RM Zoned Lands) and amendment to clarify
Condition N (Roadway Standards), which would apply only to Tax Map Key
Nos. 7-6-021:016 and 017, consisting of a total land area of 67.162 acres. The
subject properties are located along the east(mauka) side of the Queen Ka`ahumanu
Highway at its junction with Kuakini Highway, between Pualani Estates
subdivision to the north and Kona Vistas to the south.
Reference: Comm. 896.148
Intr. by: Mr. Inaba(B/R)
Negative: LAAC-64 (Due to a vote of 4-ayes,
5-noes)
Postponed: July 10 and August 21, 2024
Limited Meeting: October 15, 2024
(Note: There is a motion by Mr. Inaba, seconded by Ms. Kierkiewicz, to pass
Bill 169, Draft 2, as amended, on first reading.)
; and
Comm. 896.149: From Deputy Planning Director Jeffrey W. Darrow, dated August 5, 2024,
transmitting comments from the Kona Soil and Water Conservation District.
; and
Comm. 896.214: From Council Member Rebecca Villegas, dated October 24, 2024, requesting that
Bill 169, Draft 3, be placed on the November 20, 2024, Council agenda.
; and
Comm. 896.215: From Land Use Planning Consultant Daryn Arai, dated November 7, 2024,
requesting that Bill 169, Draft 3, be postponed.
(Note: The following relating to Bill 169, Draft 3, were circulated:
1. Comm. 896.216 from Council Member Rebecca Villegas dated November 19,
2024, transmitting supporting material; and
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
2. Comm. 896.217 from Land Use Planning Consultant Daryn Arai dated
November 20, 2024, transmitting a PowerPoint presentation.)
CHR. KIMBALL: I'll begin by inviting Land Planning Consultant Daryn Arai
and our Deputy Director from Planning to just ask if you have any introductory
remarks before we begin our deliberations on this matter. I would ask you to just
keep them at a minimum to get us started and then be available for questions.
We'll start with you, Mr. Arai.
(Note: At this time, Land Use Planning Consultant Daryn Arai and
Planning Deputy Director Jeffrey Darrow came forward to address the
members of the Council.)
MR. ARAI: Good morning, Chair Kimball, Vice Chair Inaba, and members of
the Council. My name is Daryn Arai. I reside in Hilo.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you.
MR. ARAI: I'm sorry.
CHR. KIMBALL: Did you have anything that you would like to express before
we begin our deliberations? We do have your letter on file requesting the
Postponement.
MR. ARAI: I do appreciate the consideration of the applicant's request for a
postponement. When the applicant pursued discussions with the Director of
Finance in response to Resolution 561, it was done in courtesy to the decision that
all of you made regarding the adoption of the resolution. And it was also done in
good faith. The applicant is hoping that the same courtesy and the same good
faith is offered back to them in return.
There has been discussions about how a decision on (Bill) 169 will have no effect
on any discussion or proceedings with PONC (Public Access, Open Space, and
Natural Resources Preservation Commission). But you've also heard testimony
where actions on the bill could affect the value of the land. And as Council
Members know, should Bill 169 be denied, that the Council is compelled to take
action on the final disposition of the subject property because it simply can't leave
the property in limbo. And you've heard the words "in limbo"before on actions
where time extensions are denied.
So, again, the applicant simply is hoping that you will grant them their request for
a postponement so they can continue their discussions with the Director of
Finance, as all of you have encouraged. So I appreciate that. Thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you. Deputy?
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
MR. DARROW: Thank you, Council Chair, Vice Chair, and Council Members.
Jeff Darrow with the Planning Department. We do not have any objections to the
request for a postponement. Again, it appears that the applicant is, in good faith,
trying to pursue what was requested through a resolution by the Council, to see if
the purchase could be considered through PONC. I think my understanding is
that the next step is that there is an appraisal done. So, at that point, they can
evaluate whether or not that's going to be a consideration for them. Thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you. All right. So we'll go ahead and begin
deliberations here, starting with Council Member Evans.
MS. EVANS: Thank you, Chair. I wanted to just make a comment before we get
into a lot of discussion that I think what is before me is Bill 169, and I think it
needs to stand on its own merit. I am not influenced by the state of it going into
limbo or the fact that you're in the discussion on the PONC consideration. Those
are options maybe. But I know what's before me today is (Bill) 169, and I want
to look at that and have it stand on its own merit. At this time, yeah, I will let my
colleagues ask questions. Thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Evans. Council
Member Villegas.
MS. VILLEGAS: It's not a surprise that you put in a request for postponement.
Your job is to practice law for your clients. My job is to represent my
community. We have, throughout this process, done our due diligence to bring all
the facts, all the testifiers, all the organizations, and none have provided approval.
This Council has sat for a hundred hours listening to testimony. If you've read
the testimony that's come in, that's another tens of a lot of hours. We will have a
new Council seated here in January and two new members who will not have had
the opportunity to learn all that information. I believe that that is discourteous to
them and to the rest of us.
And so, when it comes to an issue like this, that we've heard as much as we've
heard, we've visited the site, we've done all our due diligence, it's discourteous to
this body to ask for a postponement. We have operated in good faith. I am so
grateful that you guys are operating in good faith and have changed your decision
about being a willing seller for the PONC process, and I trust that that is going to
go through. They're not mutually exclusive. One does not distract from another.
Regardless, this project is not a viable project. It's 40 years old. You're asking
for another 10-year time extension. Within the last 40 years, a lot of these issues
have been brought forward that weren't even on people's radar 40 years ago. And
they're very viable and very necessary. I can go through a whole other list of
things.
But I ask my colleagues today to please vote in opposition of a postponement of
this. Let's make this decision as a body here today, together. For those of us who
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
have been here through this whole process, I would ask for your courtesy to
myself, my district and constituents, and all that have been involved in this
process to deny this request for a postponement. With that, I yield.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Villegas. Anyone else?
Checking in Hilo? Yes, Council Member Kagiwada.
MS. KAGIWADA: Thank you. So we're on the main motion, right?
CHR. KIMBALL: That's correct.
MS. KAGIWADA: Okay. All right. We desperately need housing. We need
affordable housing. We need workforce housing all over our County, but
especially on the west side. And after all these meetings we've had, all the
testifiers with their time and their energy, I just want to strongly encourage the
many individuals who have safe and adequate housing and have come out in
opposition of this project to please come back and support important legislation in
the future around workforce housing, affordable housing. To come out and
support legislation around mass transit and bike lanes, walking paths, so we can
work on our traffic issues. To come out and support our regulation of nonresident
housing; people that are using housing not for residents here, but are using it for
other means. And to support legislation on homeless services, and especially
come out and support our County's need to increase revenue in order to address
all the issues that you've brought up during this time, the needs that we have in
our community, especially infrastructure needs.
So, that being said, I just want to say this project just has too many obstacles that
have not been adequately addressed. And so I'll be staying with my initial stance
and, once again, be voting "no" on this project. Thanks.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Kagiwada. Anyone else here in
Kona? Vice Chair Inaba.
MR. INABA: Thank you. I think Council Member Kagiwada hit it on the head.
We don't always have folks come and engage in our policy decisions that really
affect where we are right now with applications like this. We keep talking about
infrastructure; we know it's lacking. But when we do take up pieces of
legislation, community and the public are silent sometimes and don't help us to
get to that best place. So thank you, Council Member Kagiwada, for pointing that
out. It's very important to remain engaged not just on specific applications before
the Council. And with that, the Leeward Planning Commission, Cultural
Resource Commission, Kona CDP (Community Development Plan) Action
Committee, not just community but also our own County agencies have voiced
their concern in opposition to this project.
Page 16
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
I said it before: When you think about affordable housing, we want affordable
housing. But even if that was the discussion that's on the table right now, the
flooding issue in the area is still of concern. And with that, I also want to mahalo
Chair Kimball and Council Member Villegas for allowing us to do that site visit.
How many times I pass that area, being born and raised here, but I got to see new
things and some of the geography there that doesn't lend its hand to this request
being adopted. So, with that, I'll be voting in opposition of Bill 169. Mahalo.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Vice Chair Inaba. Anyone else here in Kona?
Council Member Galimba.
MS. GALIMBA: Thank you. I can see where the votes are going to go, but I'm
going to continue to vote the way I did earlier. Basically for me, housing is
housing, especially multi-family housing, which would be more affordable, plus
the affordable housing requirement. The flooding argument, there is some merit
to it, but it's also very possible to build in a safe way, avoiding the flood channels.
I mean, I live next to a flood channel and, you know, it's a flood channel.
I understand people's opposition to it, but for me, the larger issue is the need for
housing and all the folks that are not here that need housing. I live far away from
this, and for me, from my perspective, this is an infill project. I know for folks
that live next to it, it's a very different perspective. So I think this is just different
people having different perspectives on this issue. So I will be voting for an
extension and I yield.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Galimba. Anyone else before I
go back to Council Member Evans? All right, Council Member Evans.
MS. EVANS: Thank you. I'll be voting in opposition. This morning when I
drove here, I was really struck by driving up the hill and noticing that beautiful
open space that's right across the street. And above it is this huge housing
development. I mean, real small lots, multifamily. It's just wonderful. But when
I looked up, I went"Wow! What good land use planning!" They understood
wildlife corridors. They understood the ecosystem. They understood that we're
building on a hill. There's a lot of things that go into "right place, right way."
And I looked at that and I went"Wow! Is this not an example of good planning
within the ahupua`a." So I was just reminded, when I looked at that, and I went
"Thank you. Thank you for giving me that vision again." And so I stand in
opposition. Thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Evans. Checking back in in
Hilo. All right, before we proceed, Mr. Arai, we had a conversation prior to this.
It does not look like there's anybody going to introduce a motion to postpone.
You did request that you be able to share some additional information. I feel
strongly in due process and everybody having the right to share as much
information about the matter before us as possible. Would you, at this time, still
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
like to share that additional information that—it does not look like we'll be
postponing this matter today. So we'll afford you that opportunity to share the
additional information you had wanted to present.
MR. ARAI: Thank you, Chair. I appreciate the opportunity to at least have that
chance to explain why we feel this project remains an important opportunity for
the community.
CHR. KIMBALL: Okay. You have some printed material?
MR. ARAI: I have some printed material. I also have a digital PowerPoint
presentation, so that way Council Members in Hilo are able to view it as well. So
if I can provide that(inaudible).
CHR. KIMBALL: I'm not sure we're going toClerk, are we going to be able to
accommodate that? We may only be able to do the handouts here in Kona.
Maybe we can send it digitally over to Hilo.
MR. HENRICKS: We have the technology for that.
CHR. KIMBALL: Okay. All right. So if you can share with Mr. Ruedy in the
back there, and then we'll just give you just a couple minutes to pass your
handouts out, please. And I do appreciate my colleagues
MS. VILLEGAS: Chair, I'd actually like to call for the vote.
CHR. KIMBALL: Mr. Clerk? All right, we have a motion to call for the
question, which I believe is not a debatable motion. Correct?
MR. HENRICKS: It is not. You just need a second and then we'll call for that.
Vote on Motion to Ms. Villegas moved to call for the question. Seconded by
Call for the Question. Mr. Inaba and failed by the following roll call vote:
Failed
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, and Villegas –4.
Noes: Council Members Galimba, Kagiwada,
Kierkiewicz, and Chair Kimball –4.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
CHR. KIMBALL: Okay, we'll take a brief moment to have you pass out the
materials. I do want to keep this succinct, but again, I want to afford due process
to the applicants and their team. We'll take a five-minute recess to have you
distribute the materials, yes.
Page 18
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Recess: At 11:55 a.m., the Chair called for a recess.
Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 12:06 p.m.
CHR. KIMBALL: Mr. Arai, you can go ahead and begin at any time. Thank
you.
MR. ARAI: Thank you, Council Members, for the opportunity to make an
abbreviated presentation. Provided to all of you in Kona are hardcopies of our
presentation. In Hilo, I understand that an electronic version of this presentation
has been provided to you as well. I was hoping for an opportunity to also present
this on the monitors. I mean, I did work hard on it, but anyway, I'll try to
abbreviate things as best as I can.
(Note: At this time, Land Use Planning Consultant Daryn Arai came
forward and provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the
Council. For viewing of the subject presentation, see the DVD copy of the
meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the
Council's video archives from the County's homepage at
www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation is made a
part of the record; see Comm. 896.217.)
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Mr. Arai, and I do appreciate you going through
that all so quickly. All right, bringing it back to Council Members. Any
questions from anyone here in Kona on the dais? All right, no? Anyone in Hilo?
All right, seeing none, we will proceed with the vote on this matter. Mr. Clerk,
roll call please.
Vote on Bill 169: The motion to pass Bill 169, Draft 3, on first reading failed
Draft 3 by the following roll call vote:
Failed
Ayes: Council Member Galimba— 1.
Noes: Council Members Evans, Inaba, Kagiwada,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
(Note: Ms. Kierkiewicz voted "kanalua"then "no.")
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Mr. Arai. Thank you, members of the applicants'
team.
Page 19
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Res. 725-24: AWARDS A PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES
PRESERVATION MAINTENANCE FUND STEWARDSHIP GRANT TO
FRIENDS OF AMY B. H. GREENWELL ETHNOBOTANICAL GARDEN
Approves a grant of$223,200 to Friends of Amy B. H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical
Garden, a 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization, to preserve native plant species, repair
and maintain security and storage facilities, and educate the community and visiting
public of the natural and cultural resources at the Amy B. H. Greenwell
Ethnobotanical Garden, South Kona, property (Tax Map Keys: 8-2-013:002, 003,
014; 8-2-014:043; and 8-2-015:059), pursuant to Section 10-16(h) of the Hawaii
County Charter.
Reference: Comm. 1172
Intr. by: Ms. Kimball
Waived: LAAC
Motion to Approve: Ms. Galimba moved to adopt Res. 725-24. Seconded by
Mr. Inaba.
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Galimba, if you'd like to say anything on
this item.
MS. GALIMBA: Not much,just that I want to thank the crew at the Amy B.
Greenwell gardens for all the great work that they have done for so long, and I
wish them well.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you. Council Member Villegas.
MS. VILLEGAS: I just want to collaborate on that statement. I had the
opportunity to go to your Arbor Day event and see and feel that tangible
experience of education and connectivity from a diverse group of community
members. They were even giving away `ulu trees to people that attended. And I
now have a Native Hawaiian `ulu plant that I am so honored and grateful to have.
So thank you for all the work that you have done to elevate that resource. And
just the term "ethnobotanical garden"rings in my ears. So thank you for your
service. I consider it an honor to be able to vote in favor of supporting you today.
CHR. KIMBALL: Very good. Council Member Evans.
MS. EVANS: Thank you. I just want to thank you for the ongoing effort. It
takes so many years that you've been keeping this going. I'm really grateful. I
believe what we're talking about is heritage plants; the seeds that have been
collected and passed on from generation to generation. These seeds I'm assuming
come from a long line of warmer plants. So I'm very grateful for what you do.
Thank you, I yield.
Page 20
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Evans. All right. I assume,
Council Member Villegas, you don't have further comments. No problem. All
right, with that, the resolution on the floor is 725-24. All those in favor, please
say "aye."
Vote on Res. 725-24: The motion to adopt Res. 725-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Bill 219: AMENDS SECTION 25-8-22 (PUNA DISTRICT ZONE MAP), ARTICLE 8,
(Draft 2) CHAPTER 25 (ZONING CODE) OF THE HAWAII COUNTY CODE 1983
(2016 EDITION, AS AMENDED), BY CHANGING THE DISTRICT
CLASSIFICATION FROM AGRICULTURAL—20 ACRES (A-20a) TO
FAMILY-AGRICULTURAL— 1 ACRE (FA-la), KEA`AU, PUNA, HAWAII,
COVERED BY TAX MAP KEY: 1-6-003:081 AND 129
(Applicant: Graphic Images Hawaii, Inc.) (Area: 26.762 acres)
The Windward Planning Commission forwards its favorable recommendation for
this change of zone request, which would allow the applicant to subdivide the
property into 23 lots. The property is located at 16-790 Kea`au-Pahoa Road.
Reference: Comm. 1110.3
Intr. by: Mr. Inaba(B/R)
Approve: LAAC-71
(Note: Comm. 1110.4, from Land Use Planning Consultant Daryn Arai dated
November 13, 2024, requesting a postponement of Bill 219, Draft 2, was
circulated.)
Vote on Bill 219: Mr. Inaba moved to pass Bill 219, Draft 2, on first reading
Draft 2 and adopt Legislative Approvals and Acquisitions
(Approved) Committee Report No. 71. Seconded by Ms. Kierkiewicz
and carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Page 21
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Bill 220: AMENDS SECTION 25-8-6 (KAILUA-HONALO URBAN ZONE MAP),
ARTICLE 8, CHAPTER 25 (ZONING CODE) OF THE HAWAII COUNTY
CODE 1983 (2016 EDITION, AS AMENDED), BY CHANGING THE DISTRICT
CLASSIFICATION FROM SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL— 10,000
SQUARE FEET (RS-10) TO NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL— 10,000
SQUARE FEET (CN-10) AT HOLUALOA, NORTH KONA, HAWAII,
COVERED BY TAX MAP KEY: 7-7-009:008
(Applicant: Dr. Loi Chang-Stroman) (Area: 16,161 square feet)
The Leeward Planning Commission forwards its favorable recommendation for this
change of zone request, which would allow the applicant to expand services at the
existing medical facility. The property is located at 77-311 Sunset Drive.
Reference: Comm. 1123
Intr. by: Mr. Inaba(B/R)
Approve: LAAC-72
Vote on Bill 220: Mr. Inaba moved to pass Bill 220 on first reading and adopt
(Approved) Legislative Approvals and Acquisitions Committee Report
No. 72. Seconded by Ms. Villegas and carried by the
following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Bill 221: REPEALS ORDINANCE NO. 10-1, WHICH AMENDED THE STATE LAND
USE BOUNDARIES MAP FOR THE COUNTY OF HAWAII BY CHANGING
THE DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION FROM THE AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT
TO THE URBAN DISTRICT AT KAHULUI 2ND, NORTH KONA, HAWAII,
COVERED BY TAX MAP KEY: 7-5-017:042
Reference: Comm. 1124
Intr. by: Mr. Inaba(B/R)
Approve: LAAC-73
Page 22
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Vote on Bill 221: Mr. Inaba moved to pass Bill 221 on first reading and adopt
(Approved) Legislative Approvals and Acquisitions Committee Report
No. 73. Seconded by Ms. Villegas and carried by the
following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Bill 222: REPEALS ORDINANCE NO. 10-2, WHICH AMENDED SECTION 25-8-3
(NORTH KONA ZONE MAP), ARTICLE 8, CHAPTER 25 (ZONING CODE) OF
THE HAWAII COUNTY CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION), BY CHANGING THE
DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION FROM AGRICULTURAL—5 ACRES (A-5a) TO
SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL— 10,000 SQUARE FEET (RS-10) AT
KAHULUI 2ND, NORTH KONA, HAWAII, COVERED BY TAX MAP
KEY: 7-5-017:042 (Planning Director Initiated) (Area: 14.437 acres)
The Leeward Planning Commission forwards its favorable recommendation to
revert the State Land Use Boundaries Map district classification to Agricultural and
the Zoning district classification to Agricultural 5-acre. This property is located on
the south side of Hualalai Road, approximately 0.6 miles east of its intersection
with Queen Ka`ahumanu Highway.
Reference: Comm. 1124
Intr. by: Mr. Inaba(B/R)
Approve: LAAC-74
Vote on Bill 222: Mr. Inaba moved to pass Bill 222 on first reading and adopt
(Approved) Legislative Approvals and Acquisitions Committee Report
No. 74. Seconded by Ms. Villegas and carried by the
following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
STATEMENTS The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business,
FROM THE Statements from the Public.
PUBLIC ON
RES. 633-24 The following individual registered to speak and came forward when called by
(COMM. 1052): the Chair:
Page 23
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Keoni Fox: Comment.
(representing Ala Kahakai Trail Association)
Res. 633-24: AUTHORIZES THE ACQUISITION OF PRIVATE PROPERTY BY EMINENT
DOMAIN OF A PORTION OF TAX MAP KEY: 9-5-007:016, SITUATED AT
KAHILIPALI IKI AND KAHILIPALINUI AHUPUA`A, DISTRICT OF KA`U,
ISLAND AND COUNTY OF HAWAII, STATE OF HAWAII, FOR THE
NA`ALEHU WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
Authorizes the Corporation Counsel to initiate proceedings for the taking,
acquisition, and condemnation of private property for the construction of a
wastewater treatment plant required by the Administrative Order on consent entered
with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Reference: Comm. 1052
Intr. by: Mr. Inaba(B/R)
First Reading: October 16, 2024
Postponed: November 8, 2024
Note: Second of two required readings,
Section 101-13, Hawaii Revised Statutes
(Note: There is a motion by Mr. Inaba, seconded by Ms. Kagiwada, to adopt
Res. 633-24.)
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Galimba.
MS. GALIMBA: Thanks. As previously, I'll be recusing from this item.
Thanks.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you. All right. Coming back here in Kona, any
comments? Actually, let me offer the floor to either Director Mansour or Deputy
Iokepa-Moses.
(Note: At this time, Environmental Management Director Ramzi Mansour
and Deputy Director Brenda Iokepa-Moses came forward to address the
members of the Council.)
MR. MANSOUR: Thank you. I really appreciate the time that we have
accomplished since May with Mr. Fox. He's right. We've been working
together. We have been achieving progress. But the progress requires
determination and more of, kind of, communication with others, as he said, and
also commitment to EPA. The property, it is that's why it is complex. That's
why we've taken this route. There's a lot of parts that not everybody may agree
on. And if we don't come to an agreement, that's what the court system is for.
The court system will determine interpretation within the agreement.
Page 24
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
I agree. The County put$4 million and the State put$2 million. If that property
gets sold through the purchasing agreement, Mr. Fox has to pay one-third to the
State. The County gets zero because we have failed to put the same clause within
that agreement. So, technically, Mr. Fox gets to keep the two-thirds. In addition
to that, this is not within the conservation area. That 28 acres was excluded for
the purpose of the waste treatment plant.
We sat down with our Corporation Counsel. We're moving forward with the
appraisal. But definitely before we do that, we need to do the subdivision. And if
we don't get the authorization from Mr. Fox to proceed with the subdivision so
we could divide that 28 (acres), which is not a conservation area within the
2,300 acres, that's going to delay the process longer and longer.
So I urge you to approve it today so when the new Administration comes in, they
don't have to deal with challenges such as this. And thank you. Brenda, if you
have any additional thoughts?
MS. IOKEPA-MOSES: Just to reemphasize what we've spoken on several
meetings ago and in our packet, this is just a tool to have as a resource in case we
get to the point where we need to go forward. As everybody's known, or may not
know, but condemnation process, eminent domain, is a lengthy process. So we've
agreed to not do any kind of legal motions for another 90 days to see if we can get
to a point of escrow or seller's agreement. If not and we go through the eminent
domain process, it's another five to six more months. And by then, for surely if
ATA is really willing and wants to make this sell on the outside of eminent
domain, that should surely happen by that time.
So, again, it's a tool. It's not saying that we're going to court tomorrow. But it is
to try to keep us on track and show that we've done all our due diligence. I have a
responsibility to our community. We've had eight meetings in Ka`u. Our
residents have been showing up. Our kupuna wants this permanent solution to
happen. They've been talking about it for 15 years. In this Administration, we've
had eight meetings, but there's been years of meetings regarding this permanent
solution. It's a due diligence for us to get this completed so the community has a
permanent solution.
And also, we have to safeguard our taxpayers' money. We don't want to come
into a position where we're paying penalties because we passed our deadline. So
time is of an essence. Again, this is tools we have so we can move forward. So I
urge you just to pass it and we'll continue to still work with Mr. Fox and the
community to get this happening, and resolve this issue for once in our
community. Thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you. Council Member Evans.
Page 25
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
MS. EVANS: Thank you. Thank you for the overview again. And I want to
thank the testifier. This is really interesting as it keeps going, the clarity. We
keep getting more and more clarity every single time we have these hearings. My
beliefI'm going to support it moving forward with the belief that there will be a
lot of due diligence that is going to have to be done before they go through the
exercise of filing for eminent domain. Some of the concerns that were brought up
today by the testifier I think will be revealed. And so, for that reason, I will vote
in favor. Thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Evans. Anyone else on this
matter? All right, seeing none, all those in favor please say "aye."
Vote on The motion to adopt Res. 633-24 on second and final
Res. 633-24: reading was carried by the following voice vote:
(Adopted)
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —6.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: Council Member Galimba— 1.
Bill 216: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 24-32, AS AMENDED, THE OPERATING
BUDGET FOR THE COUNTY OF HAWAII FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
ENDING JUNE 30, 2025
Appropriates revenues in the Federal Grants —Emergency Solutions Grants
Program account($271,806); and appropriates the same to the Emergency Solutions
Grants Program account($251,421) and Emergency Solutions Grants Program—
Administration account($20,385). Funds would be used for street outreach,
emergency shelters, homelessness prevention, rapid re-housing assistance, and data
collection through the Homeless Management Information System.
Reference: Comm. 1088
Intr. by: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder(B/R)
First Reading: November 8, 2024
Vote on Bill 216: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to pass Bill 216 on
(Adopted) second and final reading. Seconded by Mr. Inaba and
carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Page 26
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Bill 217: AMENDS CHAPTER 6, ARTICLE 2, SECTION 6-12, OF THE HAWAII
COUNTY CODE 1983 (2016 EDITION, AS AMENDED), RELATING TO
PROHIBITED HIGHWAYS FOR COMMERCIAL BICYCLE TOURS
Seeks to add a portion of Kohala Mountain Road and a portion of Akoni Pule
Highway as prohibited highways for commercial bicycle tours.
Reference: Comm. 1093
Intr. by: Ms. Evans
First Reading: November 8, 2024
(Note: The following from Council Member Ashley L. Kierkiewicz relating to
Bill 217 were circulated:
1. Comm. 1093.3 dated November 18, 2024, transmitting comments from the
Hawaii Police Department; and
2. Comm. 1093.4 dated November 19, 2024, transmitting comments from the
Department of Public Works.)
Motion to Approve: Ms. Evans moved to pass Bill 217 on second and final
reading. Seconded by Mr. Inaba.
CHR. KIMBALL: Go ahead, Council Member Evans.
MS. EVANS: Thank you. I want to thank everybody for their effort. I'm really
in gratitude to Member Kierkiewicz. She had the foresight to really help us
develop a Code process so that, in the future, other Council Members can
introduce potentially a road that people think might be worth removing
commercial bicycle tours from. And I think this process is a good one. It was our
first time through. And the process required that the Department of Public Works
and our Police Chief weigh in on if they did believe that these roads had some
issues with them in terms of safe riding.
And if I want to—do you want me to turn it over to Member Kierkiewicz, or can
I—okay. So we have two communications in our file folder. We have a
communication from Police Chief Moszkowicz. He commented on the two roads
that we are proposing and said that the ". . . roadways do not have sufficient line
of sight for commercial bicycle tours to operate safely. Also, neither roadway has
adequate shoulder areas in these locations to allow vehicles or bicycles to safely
pull over out of the main flow of traffic," and that's from our Police Chief.
From our Department of Public Works, he wrote a letter. His comments are:
"The affected portions of Akoni Pule Highway referenced in the bill have areas
where there are narrow travel lane pavement widths; little or no shoulders; limited
sight lines; and winding curves. Restriction of large groups of bicyclists in this
area associated with commercial tours would appear to be prudent." So that came
from him.
Page 27
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
There was discussion about the Kohala Mountain Road, which is also listed,
which is a State Highway. I know that Steve Pause had mentioned it to
Ed Sniffen who's the director of Highways and mentioned to the local district
manager and they offered no comments. And they did not write a letter, but they
had nothing to comment on to him. So that's what I'd like to ask my colleagues,
for their support. Thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Evans. Council
Member Kierkiewicz.
MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you, Chair. Thank you, Council Member Evans,
for your leadership on this issue, for your commitment to community safety, and
your willingness to collaborate on the framework legislation. I really do
appreciate your willingness to collaborate on that and will be in strong support of
adopting this bill today. Thank you. I yield.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Kierkiewicz. Any further
comments? Seeing none, all those in favor please say "aye."
Vote on Bill 217: The motion to pass Bill 217 on second and final reading
(Adopted) was carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
CHR. KIMBALL: Congratulations, Council Member Evans.
Bill 223: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 24-32, AS AMENDED, THE OPERATING
BUDGET FOR THE COUNTY OF HAWAII FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
ENDING JUNE 30, 2025
Increases revenues in the Federal Grants —High Intensity Impact Grant account
($193,277.96); and appropriates the same to the High Intensity Impact Grant
account, for a total appropriation of$668,277.96. These additional funds would be
used by the Hawaii Police Department for overtime, travel, training, services, and
equipment needed for operations to investigate drug-related cases.
Reference: Comm. 1135
Intr. by: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder(B/R)
First Reading: November 8, 2024
Page 28
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Vote on Bill 223: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to pass Bill 223 on
(Adopted) second and final reading. Seconded by Ms. Villegas and
carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 716-24: AWARDS A PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES
PRESERVATION MAINTENANCE FUND STEWARDSHIP GRANT TO
MALAMA O PUNA
Approves a grant of$398,569 to Malama O Puna, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
organization, to develop a land stewardship plan and to make security and access
improvements to the Wai`ele, Puna, property (Tax Map Keys: 1-4-003:003 and
037), pursuant to Section 10-16(h) of the Hawaii County Charter.
Reference: Comm. 1163
Intr. by: Ms. Kierkiewicz
Waived: LAAC
Motion to Approve: Ms. Kierkiewicz moved to adopt Res. 716-24. Seconded
by Mr. Inaba.
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Kierkiewicz.
MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you. I just want to thank our Finance Department,
specifically Hamana Ventura within PONC, and our community partners, Malama
O Puna, for all of their work to care for this very special `aina. Appreciate this
very sizable grant that is being utilized for development of a stewardship plan and
to install fencing, which is really critical to protecting the cultural and natural
resources of this wahi pana. Looking for everyone's support. Thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Kierkiewicz. Anyone else?
Seeing none, all those in favor please say "aye."
Page 29
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Vote on Res. 716-24: The motion to adopt Res. 716-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 717-24: AWARDS A PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES
PRESERVATION MAINTENANCE FUND STEWARDSHIP GRANT TO
HAWAII ENVIRONMENTAL RESTORATION
Approves a grant of$6,510 to Hawaii Environmental Restoration, a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization, to develop a digital georeference database to protect,
identify, and catalogue historically, culturally, or environmentally sensitive sites on
the Wai`ele, Puna, property (Tax Map Keys: 1-4-003:003 and 037), pursuant to
Section 10-16(h) of the Hawaii County Charter.
Reference: Comm. 1164
Intr. by: Ms. Kierkiewicz
Waived: LAAC
Motion to Approve: Ms. Kierkiewicz moved to adopt Res. 717-24. Seconded
by Mr. Inaba.
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Kierkiewicz.
MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you. Looking for everyone's support. Really
excited about the development of a digital catalog of all of the different flora and
fauna that exist within this PONC parcel. And hope that this is something that
could be used as a template for other properties to consider, because there are a lot
of really important features in these various `aina that we want to make sure
information is available to our community and future generations. I yield.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Kierkiewicz. Anyone else?
Seeing none, all those in favor please say "aye."
Page 30
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Vote on Res. 717-24: The motion to adopt Res. 717-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 718-24: AWARDS A PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES
PRESERVATION MAINTENANCE FUND STEWARDSHIP GRANT TO
HAWAII ENVIRONMENTAL RESTORATION
Approves a grant of$23,587 to Hawaii Environmental Restoration, a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization, to maintain the trail and property at Wai`ele, Puna(Tax
Map Keys: 1-4-003:003 and 037), pursuant to Section 10-16(h) of the Hawaii
County Charter.
Reference: Comm. 1165
Intr. by: Ms. Kierkiewicz
Waived: LAAC
Motion to Approve: Ms. Kierkiewicz moved to adopt Res. 718-24. Seconded
by Mr. Inaba.
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Kierkiewicz.
MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you, Chair. Several years ago, Council Member
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder and I were invited to visit this parcel, Wai`ele, by a few
community members who had been stewarding this property before it was
acquired through the PONC programDiga Kern and Jaya Dupuis. And there
was just something so sacred about being in that space very peaceful, very
centering. And so I'm really grateful to Aunty Emily Naeole who first sort of put
this property out as a potential PONC acquisition. And I'm so grateful to have
been able to help carry it over the finish line with the help of our Finance
Department. And now for it to be on an annual basis receiving stewardship funds
is truly amazing. I appreciate how this program really helps to build partnerships
between community and County. Looking for everyone's support. Thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Kierkiewicz. Anyone else?
Seeing none, all those in favor please say "aye."
Page 31
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Vote on Res. 718-24: The motion to adopt Res. 718-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 719-24: AWARDS A PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES
PRESERVATION MAINTENANCE FUND STEWARDSHIP GRANT TO
KOHANAIKI `OHANA
Approves a grant of$41,400 to Kohanaiki `Ohana, a 501(c)(3)nonprofit
organization, to remove invasive plant species, re-establish native host plants and
strand vegetation, and support coastal maintenance activities on O`oma Beach,
North Kona,property (Tax Map Key: 7-3-009:004), pursuant to Section 10-16(h)
of the Hawaii County Charter.
Reference: Comm. 1166
Intr. by: Mr. Inaba
Waived: LAAC
Motion to Approve: Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Res. 719-24. Seconded by
Ms. Villegas.
CHR. KIMBALL: Vice Chair Inaba.
MR. INABA: I just want to mahalo former Council Member Karen Eoff for
coming to share of the progress being made there, and ask for my colleagues'
support. Thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you. It was nice to see her, wasn't it? All right, all
those in favor please say "aye."
Vote on Res. 719-24: The motion to adopt Res. 719-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Page 32
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Res. 720-24: AWARDS A PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES
PRESERVATION MAINTENANCE FUND STEWARDSHIP GRANT TO
ALA KAHAKAI TRAIL ASSOCIATION
Approves a grant of$173,500 to Ala Kahakai Trail Association, a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization, to develop a community resource management plan for the
Kiolaka`a, Ka`u,property (Tax Map Keys: 9-4-001:008, 009, 016, 017, and 023),
pursuant to Section 10-16(h) of the Hawaii County Charter.
Reference: Comm. 1167
Intr. by: Ms. Kimball
Waived: LAAC
MS. GALIMBA: I will be recusing myself from this and the next two. Thank
you.
Motion to Approve: Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Res. 720-24. Seconded by
Ms. Villegas.
CHR. KIMBALL: I was asked to do this on behalf of the district area because of
the conflict, but I actually don't know anything. We did have some testifiers
earlier. So if anyone else has questions, I'm not the one to answer them even
though I submitted this reso (resolution). Seeing none, all those in favor please
say "aye."
Vote on Res. 720-24: The motion to adopt Res. 720-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —6.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: Council Member Galimba— 1.
Res. 721-24: AWARDS A PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES
PRESERVATION MAINTENANCE FUND STEWARDSHIP GRANT TO
ALA KAHAKAI TRAIL ASSOCIATION
Approves a grant of$80,000 to Ala Kahakai Trail Association, a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization, to develop a community resource management plan for the
Kaunamano, Ka`u,property (Tax Map Keys: 9-5-011:001, 004, 005, 006, and
9-5-012:001), pursuant to Section 10-16(h) of the Hawaii County Charter.
Reference: Comm. 1168
Intr. by: Ms. Kimball
Waived: LAAC
Page 33
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Motion to Approve: Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Res. 721-24. Seconded by
Ms. Villegas.
CHR. KIMBALL: Any discussion?
MS. GALIMBA: I will also be recusing myself from this.
CHR. KIMBALL: All right, seeing no further discussion, all those in favor please
say "aye."
Vote on Res. 721-24: The motion to adopt Res. 721-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —6.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: Council Member Galimba— 1.
Res. 722-24: AWARDS A PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES
PRESERVATION MAINTENANCE FUND STEWARDSHIP GRANT TO
ALA KAHAKAI TRAIL ASSOCIATION
Approves a grant of$132,500 to Ala Kahakai Trail Association, a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization, to hire contractors and an intern to assist with efforts that
align with the community resource management plan for the Kaunamano,
Waikapuna, and Kiolaka`a, Ka`u,properties (Tax Map Keys: 9-5-011:001, 004,
005, 006, and 9-5-012:001; 9-5-007:016; and 9-4-001:008, 009, 016, 017, and 023,
respectively), pursuant to Section 10-16(h) of the Hawaii County Charter.
Reference: Comm. 1169
Intr. by: Ms. Kimball
Waived: LAAC
Motion to Approve: Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Res. 722-24. Seconded by
Ms. Villegas.
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Galimba.
MS. GALIMBA: Thank you. I will need to be recused from this as well.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you. Any further discussion? Seeing none, all those in
favor please say "aye."
Page 34
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Vote on Res. 722-24: The motion to adopt Res. 722-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —6.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: Council Member Galimba— 1.
Res. 723-24: AWARDS A PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES
PRESERVATION MAINTENANCE FUND STEWARDSHIP GRANT TO
POHAHA I KA LANI
Approves a grant of$114,900 to P6h5h5 I Ka Lani, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
organization, to reduce invasive species, propagate native plants, and educate users
of the history and cultural significance of the Waipi`o Valley Lookout, Hamakua,
property (Tax Map Key: 4-8-004:006), pursuant to Section 10-16(h) of the Hawaii
County Charter.
Reference: Comm. 1170
Intr. by: Ms. Kimball
Waived: LAAC
Motion to Approve: Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Res. 723-24. Seconded by
Ms. Galimba.
CHR. KIMBALL: I'll just say we had Jesse Potter from this group earlier today,
and they just do such an amazing job. So I ask for everybody's support. It just
provides wonderful opportunities for visitors and local keiki and also to folks. I
just want to continue to see us support their work. Any further discussion?
Seeing none, all those in favor please say "aye."
Vote on Res. 723-24: The motion to adopt Res. 723-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Page 35
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Res. 724-24: AWARDS A PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES
PRESERVATION MAINTENANCE FUND STEWARDSHIP GRANT TO
HO`OMALU KAT
Approves a grant of$25,500 to Ho`omalu Ka`u, a 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization,
to support ongoing efforts to manage and maintain land for traditional cultural uses
and practices at the Kahua `Olohu, Ka`u,property (Tax Map Key: 9-5-012:005),
pursuant to Section 10-16(h) of the Hawaii County Charter.
Reference: Comm. 1171
Intr. by: Ms. Kimball
Waived: LAAC
Motion to Approve: Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Res. 724-24. Seconded by
Ms. Galimba.
CHR. KIMBALL: Any discussion?
MS. GALIMBA: Thank you. Just urging my fellow Council Members to
approve this PONC request. Ho`omalu Ka`u does a fantastic job of—well, they
brought this makahiki grounds back and do a fantastic job of maintaining it and
making it a resource for the community. Thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Galimba. Anyone else? Seeing
none, all those in favor please say "aye."
Vote on Res. 724-24: The motion to adopt Res. 724-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball –7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada– 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 726-24: AWARDS A PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES
PRESERVATION MAINTENANCE FUND STEWARDSHIP GRANT TO
HAWAII FARMERS UNION FOUNDATION
Approves a grant of$56,900 to Hawaii Farmers Union Foundation, a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization, to support ongoing maintenance efforts and to develop a
management plan at the Banyan Trees Park, North Kohala, property (Tax Map Key:
5-5-015:042), pursuant to Section 10-16(h) of the Hawaii County Charter.
Reference: Comm. 1173
Intr. by: Ms. Evans
Waived: LAAC
Page 36
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Motion to Approve: Ms. Evans moved to adopt Res. 726-24. Seconded by
Ms. Villegas.
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Evans.
MS. EVANS: Thank you. It's my pleasure to support this Hawaii Farmers
Union Foundation that is working really hard to keep the spirit of
Downtown Haw! alive by this open space that I think will present different
opportunities for the community to enjoy Haw! Town. And this being the last
PONC stewardship grant, I want to personally thank Hamana. I know this is a
heavy lift to put all these together—it was—and you did it. And so I'm very
grateful. So thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Any further comments? I'll just echo what Council
Member Evans said. Thank you to you and everybody over there at Finance that
got this all done. And, by the way, great shirt. I love that. Anyway, I would
just—yeah, I know this was a heavy lift and I understand what we're trying to do
to get on even a quicker cadence so we can continue to support these folks. So I
really appreciate all the effort. All right, all those in favor please say "aye."
Vote on Res. 726-24: The motion to adopt Res. 726-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball –7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada– 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 705-24: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A
DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED
FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO THE KOHALA HERITAGE
CENTER FOR EXPENSES RELATING TO ITS PUBLIC EDUCATIONAL
CENTER
Transfers $3,019.60 from the Clerk-Council Services –Contingency Relief account
(Council District 9); and credits to the Department of Liquor Control, Public
Programs account.
Reference: Comm. 1150
Intr. by: Ms. Evans
Motion to Approve: Ms. Evans moved to adopt Res. 705-24. Seconded by
Ms. Villegas.
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Evans.
Page 37
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
MS. EVANS: Thank you. It's my pleasure to support this. It was the former
bond library, a hundred-plus years old. Through the labor of love and
commitment by the community, they were able to put forth and renovate it and
open it for the community. And this will help them with their displays and
everything within the facility. I think it's an amazing project, and I encourage
everybody to go to Kapa`au. It's right across the street from the
King Kamehameha statue. Thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Evans. Anyone else? Seeing
none, all those in favor please say "aye."
Vote on Res. 705-24: The motion to adopt Res. 705-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 706-24: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A
DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED
FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO THE HAWAIIAN VOLCANO
EDUCATION AND RESILIENCE INSTITUTE TO SUPPORT ITS DIGITAL
RESILIENCE AGAINST DISASTERS FOR ISLAND COMMUNITIES
TRAINING PROGRAM
Transfers $5,000 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account
(Council District 1); and credits to the Department of Liquor Control, Public
Programs account.
Reference: Comm. 1151
Intr. by: Ms. Kimball
Motion to Approve: Ms. Galimba moved to adopt Res. 706-24. Seconded by
Mr. Inaba.
CHR. KIMBALL: I'll just ask for my colleagues' support. I believe, Council
Member Kierkiewicz, you supported some funding towards this program as well,
and we're certainly interested for our district. With some challenging topography
and whatnot, it's important to have good communication. So thank you for
bringing this to our attention. We appreciate it. Any further discussion? Seeing
none, all those in favor please say "aye."
Page 38
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Vote on Res. 706-24: The motion to adopt Res. 706-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 707-24: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A
DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED
FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO BIG ISLAND MEDIATION,
INC., TO ASSIST WITH EXPENSES RELATING TO ITS PEER MEDIATION
TRAINING
Transfers $5,000 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account
(Council District 8); and credits to the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney, Other
Current Expenses account.
Reference: Comm. 1152
Intr. by: Mr. Inaba
Motion to Approve: Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Res. 707-24. Seconded by
Ms. Villegas.
CHR. KIMBALL: Vice Chair Inaba.
MR. INABA: I just ask for your support. This program teaches our youth in our
schools how to deal with conflict and employ resolution methods, to try and have
a more cohesive community and work together. So I ask for your support.
Mahalo.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you. Anyone else? Seeing none, all those in favor
please say "aye."
Vote on Res. 707-24: The motion to adopt Res. 707-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Res. 708-24: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A
DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED
FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO KAHALU'U KUAHEWA FOR
THE REVITALIZATION OF THE WAHI KUPUNA KAHALU'U FIELD
SYSTEM
Transfers $5,000 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account
(Council District 7); and credits to the Department of Liquor Control, Public
Programs account.
Reference: Comm. 1153
Intr. by: Ms. Villegas
Motion to Approve: Ms. Villegas moved to adopt Res. 708-24. Seconded by
Mr. Inaba.
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Villegas.
MS. VILLEGAS: Just ask for my colleagues' support. The amazing work
they're doing here is really showing. A lot of the lands, it's interesting, that had
been zoned ag and then kind of on the west side said they're not really that good
for ag, returning to the traditional field system is showing that they are a really
great food source. So, really excited about the work they're doing and just ask for
your support.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you. Anyone else? Seeing none, all those in favor
please say "aye."
Vote on Res. 708-24: The motion to adopt Res. 708-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Page 40
Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Res. 709-24: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A
DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED
FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO HAWAII ISLAND ADULT
CARE FOR ITS POSITIVE APPROACH TO CARE TRAINING PROGRAM
Transfers $5,000 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account
(Council District 2); and credits to the Office of Aging, Other Current Expenses
account.
Reference: Comm. 1154
Intr. by: Ms. Kagiwada
Motion to Approve: Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Res. 709-24. Seconded by
Ms. Galimba.
CHR. KIMBALL: I'm sure we're all aware of what this program is, and we did
have some testifiers. But if there's any other comments on this? Seeing none, all
those in favor please say "aye."
Vote on Res. 709-24: The motion to adopt Res. 709-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 710-24: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A
DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED
FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO KEAUKAHA ONE YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT TO SUPPORT ITS HILO MURALS PROJECT
Transfers $5,000 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account
(Council District 2); and credits to the Department of Liquor Control, Public
Programs account.
Reference: Comm. 1155
Intr. by: Ms. Kagiwada
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Vote on Res. 710-24: Mr. Inaba moved to adopt Res. 710-24. Seconded by
(Adopted) Ms. Galimba and carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Res. 711-24: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A
DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED
FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO MALAMA O PUNA TO
SUPPORT THE BLACK SANDS BEACH COMMUNITY GARDEN'S KEIKI
RESILIENCE PROJECT
Transfers $10,000 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account
(Council District 4); and credits to the Department of Research and Development,
Agriculture Other Current Expenses account.
Reference: Comm. 1156
Intr. by: Ms. Kierkiewicz
Motion to Approve: Ms. Kierkiewicz moved to adopt Res. 711-24. Seconded
by Ms. Villegas.
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Kierkiewicz.
MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you, Chair. I think my constituents in Pahoa did a
really excellent job explaining the value of this community garden project in
Black Sands. I was especially touched by the young woman Jade for speaking
about her personal experience and how her involvement in the keiki garden just
grew her connection to community and `aina. So, looking for everyone's support
of this really beautiful community-driven project. I yield.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member. Anyone else? Seeing none, all
those in favor please say "aye."
Vote on Res. 711-24: The motion to adopt Res. 711-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
Res. 712-24: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A
DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED
FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO MALAMA O PUNA TO
SUPPORT ITS FOOD SECURITY PROGRAM
Transfers $10,000 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account
(Council District 4); and credits to the Department of Research and Development,
Agriculture Other Current Expenses account.
Reference: Comm. 1157
Intr. by: Ms. Kierkiewicz
Motion to Approve: Ms. Kierkiewicz moved to adopt Res. 712-24. Seconded
by Ms. Villegas.
CHR. KIMBALL: Council Member Kierkiewicz.
MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you. Shout-out to Eileen O'Hara, Executive
Director of Malama O Puna. She really is a force working hard to support our
community. So, really happy to partner up with her on various food security
initiatives like this resolution, which would provide funding to help the renovation
of a mobile kitchen so that it can travel throughout the Puna region and process all
of the abundance that we have just growing out in the wild in our community. So,
looking for everyone's support. Thank you.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you very much. All right, any further discussion?
Seeing none, all those in favor please say "aye."
Vote on Res. 712-24: The motion to adopt Res. 712-24 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Evans, Galimba, Inaba,
Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Villegas,
and Chair Kimball —7.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Kagiwada— 1.
Excused: None.
Return to Order The Chair directed the Council to return to the order of business.
of Business:
APPROVAL The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Approval
OF MINUTES: of Minutes.
Chair Kimball announced that the Minutes of October 2,
2024, were approved.
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Hawaii County Council-52 November 20,2024
ORDER OF The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Order of
RESOLUTIONS: Resolutions.
(Note: Items in this category were taken up previously, out of order.)
BILLS FOR The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Bills for
ORDINANCES Ordinances (First Reading).
(FIRST READING):
(Note: Items in this category were taken up previously, out of order.)
ORDER OF The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Order of
THE DAY the Day (Second or Final Reading).
(SECOND OR
FINAL READING): (Note: Items in this category were taken up previously, out of order.)
REPORTS: The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Reports.
(Note: Items in this category were taken up previously, out of order.)
OTHER The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Other
BUSINESS: Business.
(There were none.)
ANNOUNCE- The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business,
MENTS: Announcements.
CHR. KIMBALL: Vice Chair Inaba.
MR. INABA: Thank you, Chair Kimball. With that,just wanting to provide an
announcement to the public to join us on Monday, December 2nd. Our
inauguration of Mayor Alameda, Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen, and the
new Council will take place at the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa, Kaleiopapa
Convention Center. It is open to the public, and we hope that you will join us that
day. Mahalo.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you very much, Vice Chair Inaba. Council
Member Evans.
MS. EVANS: Thank you. Yes, I believe, also that morning on December 2nd
we'll kind of have a ceremonial closing and approve the meeting minutes of today
and adjourn. And so the public may not be watching, so I just want to tell the
public it was a pleasure serving these two years on this term. It was amazing. I
want you to know that your employees of the County work really hard, and it's
very challenging, given the amount of work that we give them. And so I think we
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Hawai`i County Council-52 November 20,2024
have to work towards cooperation and collaboration and understanding. We work
together to make things better,but believe me,you have dedicated people here at
• the County.
And I want to thank my colleagues. Working with them, it's just been a pleasure.
Also want to thank all the staff in the Council Services. Without them, we
couldn't do our work. They're amazing and we put them through the hoops,
especially on the days we have Council and we have all the amendments and
stuff. And so they always come through. So I want to thank everyone. Thank
you. Mahalo.
CHR. KIMBALL: Thank you, Council Member Evans. We'll have an
opportunity to share our appreciation for you and your time here served on the
Council,but you are one classy lady. So thank you for acknowledgment of all of
our staff because that is always necessary, and they do work really hard. Council
Member Villegas.
MS. VILLEGAS: You can't escape us. You may not serve with us in this next
term, sitting here on this dais,but it has been a joy. I've learned a lot from you,
and it's just really been a pleasure. So I look forward to continuing to get to know
each other even better. And I know that the next role that you—roles, it sounds
like—that you're taking on continue to be in service of your community. You'll
be transitioning that wisdom, that insight,that experience just to another facet and
a role in your community. But we'll miss having you up here and hearing Holeka
say"Cindy Lou"because you just have a precious spirit and a kind heart. And,
yeah,we'll keep in touch. All right. Rock on.
CHR. KIMBALL: All right,thank you, Council Member Evans [sic]. With that,
I would like to just close by wishing everybody a very happy Thanksgiving. I
hope you have a wonderful holiday with friends, family, and loved ones. Stay
safe, of course, and take a nap after eating too much turkey. All right,with that,
seeing no further business,we are adjourned at 1:17 p.m. Thank you. Have a
great day, everyone.
ADJOURN- There being no further business, Chair Kimball adjourned the meeting at 1:17 p.m.
MENT:
Council Approval: JAN 0 8 2025 CO
JH/dg
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