HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0972.003 2008-2010 21,
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Aloha and thank you for this opportunity to provide testimony on these important
matters. As the Councilmember elect for lower Puna 1 wanted to provide testimony in
support of 2 important measures you will be considering today. Both of these
measures are important for my district because they address, a major public safety
issue and the deficiency of public facilities in my district. Funding for the PMAR is long
overdue. ! recently teamed that money has already been lost for this important
project but I don't want to waste time pointing fingers now, the important thing is to
move forward with this funding and to get the PMAR underway as soon as possible!
Another thing 1 feel strongly about is to make sure the public is engaged in the design
process for the PMAR especially the residents of Hawaiian Paradise Park if that is the
chosen route.
I also support Bill 311 because of the allocation of funds for a Park in Hawaiian
Paradise Park. Puna is sorely lacking in public facilities and the problem is
compounded by the population growth we have experienced in the last few years.
We also have some of the highest rates in the state for almost all the social problems
you can think of; school drop out, crime, poverty, teen pregnancy and more. We
need more things for our youth to do with themselves, and Parks are a good place to
start. Public parks encourage healthy activities and promote healthy communities,
they provide a place for our kids to be, to play, and to meet with friends. Of course
parks are good for grown ups too and they often provide green space in a sea of
asphalt or residences. 1 have a special interest in seeing parks developed in my
district because youth sports is my passion and Pahoa has proven once again that
with just a little support from community leaders and dedicated parents we too can
be CHAMPIONS!
I'm also in support of Bill 312 and the allocation of $184,000 from the Geothermal Funds
for the Pahoa Senior Center. Our seniors have worked long and hard planning for this
center and they deserve to finally have their vision realized. ! would also like to see at
least $4,200 earmarked for a Senior Net Center instructor.
Frei ciS
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Ref. Date ' 1 ! I A 2010