HomeMy WebLinkAboutREP PWIRC 045 12/04/2007 2006-2008 r._.~,.....,,,,,..
REPORT OF THE
COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS & INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS
DATE: December 4, 2007 Re: Comm. No. 825/Res. 429-07
PLACE: Council Chambers
Ben Franklin Bldg., 2"d Floor
333 Kilauea Avenue
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
TIME: 3:34 p.m.
Council Chair and Members
Hawaii County Council
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Your Committee on Public Works & Intergovernmental Relations, to which was referred in
Communication 825, regarding Res. 429-07, reports as follows:
Res. 429-07, transmitted by Council Member, Stacy K. Higa via Communication 825, dated November
21, 2007, requesting the Director of Public Works to work with the Planning Director, the Public, and
the Hawaii County Council to Update and Revise Chapter 3 of the Hawaii County Code 1983 (2005
Edition, as Amended), Relating to Signs.
The purpose of this resolution is to address the recent strict sign enforcement by the department in
response to the many public complaints he received. After discussing this with the
Mayor/Administration, Council Member Higa has proposed the resolution with the intention to request
relief for the public by delaying the strict enforcement from the department on the Sign Code
ordinance.
There were nine testifiers, four in opposition, and five commented.
Appearing before your Committee was Mr. Ivan Torigoe of Corporation Counsel . The members of
your Committee commented on the proposed resolution and their concern of instructing departments of
what they are permitted to do. According to Mr. Torigoe the Council creates law, and departments
enforce it. Any proposed resolution is at the will of the introducer to express its intent, but such
resolution cannot compel the enforcement of law. It is the decision of the department and their
discretion on the action they choose to take.
Ms. Noelani Whittington, Public Relations of the Department of Public Works appeared before your
Committee. Your Committee members addressed where the deparfinent's position on educating and
providing outreach to the businesses of the Sign Code ordinance versus implementing strict
enforcement. Ms. Whittington commented that the department is in the process of doing several
things, creating a brochure that will be user friendly explaining the sign ordinance, compiling an
extensive list of all businesses and also an annual review and evaluation of the Sign Code.
Ms Whittington's explanation of the department's position and their recommendations was received
well by the members of your committee.
Mr. Brian Kajikawa, Building Division Chief appeared before your Committee. Mr. Kajikawa
commented that certain issues on the sign ordinance need to be reviewed.