HomeMy WebLinkAboutREP FC 117 2026-01-06 2024-2026REPORT OF THE
COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
DATE: January 6, 2026
PLACE: Council Chambers
Hilo, Hawaii
TIME: 11:00 a.m.
Council Chair and Members
Hawaii County Council
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Re: Comm. No. 655/Bill No. 112
Your Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 112, reports as follows:
Bill No. 112, transmitted by Research and Development Director Benson Medina via
Communication No. 655, dated December 1, 2025, amends Ordinance No. 25-45, as amended,
the Operating Budget of the County of Hawaii for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.
This bill increases revenues in the Federal Grants — Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
account ($1,600,000); and appropriates the same to the following Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act 2025-2026 accounts: Administrative/Planning ($200,000), Adult Program
($650,000), Dislocated Worker Program ($300,000), and Youth Program ($450,000). Funds would
be used to provide services that enhance employment opportunities, job retention, earnings, skill
development, and literacy.
Research and Development Deputy Director Dennis Lin and Economic and Workforce Development
Specialist Clinton Mercado were present and provided background on this bill.
Committee Member Ashley L. Kierkiewicz requested a report on the number of individuals assisted
and the impact of data and programs.
Committee Member Dennis "Fresh" Onishi questioned how the program has helped the County fill
positions. Mr. Lin described efforts to coordinate with the Department of Human Resources.
Mr. Mercado further explained that they have engaged key community members to inform students
about the benefits, education, and training required for County employment, and have provided hands-
on training for positions requiring a commercial driver's license and positions for parks maintenance.
Your Committee on Finance is in accord with the purpose and intent of Bill No. 112, and
recommends its passage on first reading.
AYES
NOES
ADS
EX
GALIMBA
X
HUSTACE
X
INABA
X
KAGIWADA
X
KANEALI'I-KLEINFELDER
X
KIERKIEWICZ
X
KIMBALL
X
ONISHI
X
VILLEGAS
X
Respectfully submitted,
COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
MATT ANEA
CHAIR
FC REPORT NO.: 117
ADOPTED: JAN 2�g