HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0212.455 1996-1998 Apri124, 1997
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County Council Counfy Council,, <
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County of Hawaii
Re: Support of post harvest treatment facility.
My name is Chuck Porter. I am speaking in support of the post harvest treatment facility
for the Island of Hawaii. I have been in business on the Big Island for over 27 years in
agriculture, service stations, petroleum distribution, and currently the tire business. (Lex
Brodie Tire Company). The issue of county support for a post harvest treatment facility,
specifically an irradiation facility, is not an issue of safety, but one of survival for many
small farmers and Big Island families. Irradiation is a proven and safe method for the
protection of food supplies that has already stood the test of time and scrutiny of many.
I consider the current economic and job opportunity situation on the Big Island the worst I
have seen in 27 years. A recent job position posted by our company for a tire changing
position has drawn over 70 applicants. We all know that many able bodied persons and
heads of households are wanting and willing to work, and are not able to because there are
not enough jobs or opportunities.
There will be hundreds of jobs and opportunities created when farmers and agricultural
entrepreneurs are able to take their products to market. Our current dilemma of not being
able to sell what we can grow is a situation that is not tolerated in the rest of the United
States. We must change this. We must have vision from our council leaders to support our
growers and let the marketplace do its job. You can do surveys and feasibility studies
while our children continue to exit the islands. Most will be meaningless as long as we
cannot export agricultural products. The first step is to provide a facility that will make
export feasible and profitable. The marketplace on its own will provide capital, jobs and
opportunities. We must respond to the needs of our local people, and not to outside vocal
minorities with their own special interest agendas.
Our collective governments spend millions of dollars on people who cannot work, or who
do not want to work or will not work. Now is the time to make an investment in the
people of Hawaii who want to work, who are willing to risk time and capital and be
productive citizens. Lets put the marketplace to work for all of our benefits, by letting us
enjoy equal opportunity in supplying Hawaii products to the mainland. Support irradiation
and support our future.
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