HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0533.076 2000-2002 5-24-02: 8:30AM: RSM :808 935 6099 # i
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D. W. Rose
4 Kahoa Road
Hilo, HI 96720 {
~ May 24, 2002 . E'
FY',:.:
' Mr. James Arakaki
chairman, Hawaii county council
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, HI 96720
Dear Jimmy:
The importance of the visitor industry to the Big Island's economy cannot be overstated. In the aftermath
of the S~tember 11 tragedy, we understand all too well the immediate crippling effects of a tourism
downturn. People, workers, families with children, farmers all look to the visitor industry far jobs, f~
financial security, for income to pay far mortgages, rents, groceries and healthcare. We cannot let these
residents of Hawaii County dawn.
A vibrant visitor industry creates an economic climate that nurtures resides. When employment rises,
crime statistics decline. When visitor spending increases, so too does the personal income of Big Island
workers. Where restaurants are full, farmers benefit. When tourists buy souvenirs, shopkeepers benefit.
When hotels are full, revenues to the county increase through the TAT tax. Visitors contribute over
$10 million annually to the county in TAT revenues.
And we cannot forget the induect jobs that service the visitor industry. Diversigied agriculture succeeds
i with a strong visitor industry. The Big Island's flower, papaya, coffee, tragical fruit and vegetable
farmers depend on hotels, restaurants, cruise ships and individual visitoa~s to buy their products. In fact,
there is not one industry that is not tied in some way to the success of the visitor industry.
We are regaining the visits industry momentum lost after September 11. Your support of visitor industry
i funding is crucial to the full economic recovery of tip Big Island. Now, more than ever, the visitor
~ industry and government must work together to provide far a healthy, sustainable economic environment.
Jimmy, I have served as a volunteer to the HVCB starting back in the early 50's and continue through
j today. Needless to say, I have witnessed the dramatic growth in Hawaii's visitor industry.
The visitor industry has been our savior, while the sugar industry disappeared. Thank goodness it was
there when our island toak a devastating blow with the closing of our plantations.
[ urge you to continue to support funding for the Big Island Visitors Bureau and the Big Island Group.
Best personal regards.
D. w..~vvhitey„ Ro e
E'i!e N®.
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