HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0481.003 2000-2002
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Harry Kim a;~ ~ : ~ Dixie Kaetsu
Mayor Managing Director
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a'~`''`~'''~~°'e Peter T. Young
Deputy Managing Director
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25 Aupuni Street, Room 215 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720-4252 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553
KONA: 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Suite 103 • Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
(808) 329-5226 • Fax (808) 326-5663
January 18, 2002
The Honorable Dominic Yagong, Chairperson ,
Committee on Environmental Management and Parks
Hawai`i County Council , r
Hilo, Hawaii 96720 ~,aunc~!
Subject: Hilo Landfill Closure
Dear Chairperson Yagong:
I am in total agreement with you on the need to place a very high focus on the situation with
the Hilo landfill. As I have established with Galen Kuba, the Director of Environmental
Management, the closure of the Hilo landfill as well as selection of replacement options for
handling East Hawaii solid waste is the highest priority. While it may be necessary for an
interim period, the long telm use of hauling solid waste to West Hawaii is not acceptable.
In reference to your recommendation that the Environmental Management Commission focus
its attention entirely on the Hilo landfill closure, the Hawaii County Charter has established
the responsibility of the commission as advising the department on "waste reduction
strategies, recycling, litter control, community involvement and other issues related to the
functions of the department..." Many of these mandated activities are important for
community involvement. The commission should make the landfill a high priority, but the
other responsibilities cannot be neglected.
Thank you for your concern about this very important issue.
Aloha,
Harry Kim
MAYOR
cc: Galen Kupa, Acting Director of Environmental Management
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