HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 1204.001 2006-2008
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HAWAII COUNTY ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY COUNCIL 0=1,
47 Rainbow Drive
Hilo, Hawaii 96720-2013
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Tel: (808) 961-2681 / Fax: (808) 935-9213 rK , u y•.
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May 9, 2008
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The Honorable Donald Ikeda and Members of the Hawaii County Council: y
On behalf of Hawaii County Economic Opportunity Council (HCEOC), thank you for approving
Resolution 633-08 which transfers/appropriates $128,000 from Office of the County Clerk to
Mass Transit for the continuation of HCEOC's Transportation Program.
Pursuant to your request, please find additional clarification to question number 10, 11, and 12.
10. How will the shortfall/closure impact other programs?
HCEOC shall in good faith make every attempt to restore transportation services for
Head Start children in West Hawaii for the 2008 - 2009 school year. Accordingly, with
the shortfall of program funding, services such as shopping trips for seniors may be
reduced.
11. What will happen on July 1St9
County and State funding for the Transportation Program have remained constant for the
past three years despite the continuous rise in operating costs. Given HCEOC's funding
conditions, private corporate managers agree that the best approach would be to abolish
the Program or suspend services until funding is secured. However, as many
testified at the May 7th County Council meeting, HCEOC's transportation services is a
lifeline for low-income elderly, disabled individuals, and preschool children. For this
reason, HCEOC remains committed to providing transportation services to the
disadvantaged people of Hawaii County, exploring other means of funding, as well as
reevaluating current operations for implementation of cost-cutting initiatives.
12. Will program resume or remain terminated?
Although the additional $128,000 appropriation from the County will augment HCEOC's
Transportation Program budget by 12.13%, funds will only cover a portion of operating
expenses. Compared to last year, the cost for fuel has increased by 40%, vehicle
insurance by 3.67%, and repair/maintenance by 16.59%.
Despite cost increase, HCEOC will continue the Transportation Program even at reduced
services. Every effort will be made to avoid any disruption in services as well as to
restore transportation services for Head Start children in West Hawaii during the 2008 -
2009 school year. Until HCEOC receives more resources and support for the
Transportation Program, only then are we able to expand services beyond current levels.
Again, thank you for your continuous support of HCEOC's Transportation Program. ' ZD • '
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