HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0193.086 2008-2010
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May 20, 2009 at-~
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Chairperson J Yoshimoto & Members CQ
Hawaii County Council
25 Aupuni Street 2 i
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
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Re: Bill No 49 (Relating to the 2% Open Space Fund)
Dear Chairperson Yoshimoto and Members of the Hawaii County Council.
Thank you for this opportunity to testify in support of Bill No. 49.
As an elected representative for the many hard working people of the International Longshore and Warehouse
Union here on Hawaii Island, I am respectfully requesting your support of Mayor Billy Kenoi's decision to suspend
the transfer of 2% of the real property tax revenue to the Open Space Fund.
The 2% fund was a smart attempt at promoting the responsible stewardship of our island's many natural
resources through the purchase of open space. During these challenging economic times, it may be a struggle
just to properly steward the lands the county is currently responsible for without adequate funding. I would further
argue, that it would be irresponsible not to temporarily suspend the 2% transfer of real property tax revenue so
that the County of Hawaii can have a fighting chance at overcoming our current economic obstacles and support
those functions which currently exist so that upon our collective recovery, the county's infrastructure will be well
prepared to administer the people's business.
As a fellow elected representative, I respect the fact that your constituents have chosen you for a position that
requires you to make tough decisions for the greater good. Many of my constituents have had to take a harder
look at their own budgets than they ever thought they would have to. Some have eliminated or reduced very
important and noble line items within their households, such as funding for their children's college education, or
supporting community charities like the United Way. The intent of the 2% Open Space Fund is noble indeed, but
just as our constituents must choose to temporarily suspend or modify well intentioned budgetary items in their
own homes, you too should look at making this temporary sacrifice for the greater good.
Sincerely,
Greg Gauthier, Business Agent
ILWU Local 142, Hawaii Division
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Cosa?. No. l R 3
Ref. 70:
Ref. Date MAY 2 0 2009