HomeMy WebLinkAboutREP FC 173 2026-09-01 2024-2026REPORT OF THE
COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
DATE: September 1, 2026 Re: Comm. No. 1030/Res. No. 651-26
PLACE: Council Chambers
Hilo, Hawaii
TIME: 10:36 a.m.
Council Chair and Members
Hawaii County Council
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Your Committee on Finance, to which was referred Resolution No. 651-26, reports as follows:
Resolution No. 651-26, transmitted by Temporary Fire Chief Daniel J. Volpe via Communication
No. 1030, dated July 29, 2026, authorizes the Mayor to enter into an intergovernmental agreement
with the State of Hawaii, Department of Health, to receive a grant for the Hawaii Fire Department
Community Paramedicine Program.
This resolution allows for the receipt of $2,355,000 in federally -derived funds to be used to fund
personnel, telehealth equipment and software, and provide training, travel, and program
implementation materials.
Temporary Fire Chief Daniel Volpe and Battalion Chief Kili Kanae were present in Chambers.
Committee Chair Matt Kdneali`i-Kleinfelder requested background on the measure. Mr. Volpe
emphasized the significance of the funding and its community benefits.
Committee Member Ashley L. Kierkiewicz expressed support for the measure and inquired about the
Telehealth Kit. Mr. Kanae explained that the kits assist individuals needing medical care who do not
require emergency room visits, reducing strain on health professionals and freeing emergency resources.
Ms. Kierkiewicz noted the program's potential to benefit the unhoused community and encouraged
collaboration with the Office of Housing and Community Development for continued funding.
Committee Member Rebecca Villegas reiterated support for the program and its continued funding,
emphasizing its value to the community and their connection to everyone they serve. Mr. Volpe thanked
her and remarked that fire personnel often interact with community members more than with their own
families.
Your Committee on Finance is in accord with the purpose and intent of Resolution No. 651-26, and
recommends its adoption.
Ikh
AYES
NOES
ABS
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 KANEA `I-KL INFELDER,
CHAIR
FC REPORT NO.: 173
ADOPTED: