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September 16, 2015
Testimony AGAINST resolution 272-15 submitted by Councilwoman Margaret Wille
Council Chambers— Kailua Kona, Hawaii
My name is Carol Fuertes and I live in North Kohala. I was born and raised on this Island and I can call
myself a true resident of Hawaii. My family has been here for three generations. I am here to testify
against this resolution to Mayor Billy Kenoi submitted by Kohala's Councilperson, Margaret Wille.
I want the council to know that only a minority of people in Kohala feels the way Ms. Wille does, with
her personal attacks on the Mayor. The Local people, those that Mayor Kenoi has brought County
services to our community for the past two terms and who use the County facilities on a regular basis
are most appreciative of him and his administration. We have an influx of outside retirees that come
and live in North Kohala because it is a wonderful community, usually peaceful and beautiful — and
most notably, land that only they can afford to buy. The local people, only a few who can afford
the high cost of living have remained but we have held onto our traditions and our values.
It is not the Council's place to "reprimand" any official, State, Federal, or County government. The
Mayor is elected by the Majority of the People on this Island. The Council only elected by a fraction
of these people in their districts. And some of you do not even reflect the views of your entire district.
I want this council to know that Ms. Wille does not represent all of North Kohala — she has not even
spoken to me since she was elected and I am a strong community service activist for my community.
For over 40 years I have been working on various projects throughout our community.
A point I want to clarify is the purchases made on the "PCard" which is the issue here, is this: There has
never been a Mayor or Official of this County that has promoted a multi-million dollar event such as the
Ironman Triatalon. We had State, National and International coverage for the past year's Event due to
the participation of Mayor Kenoi in the race. AND gifts to visiting Dignataries or entertaining those that
do service in the County is a Local tradition of Hospitality and "Omiage" which is unique to the Aloha
State, a practice which is not understood by those who have not been born or raised in these islands.
I humbly asko� u not to pass this resolution, this very personal attack. The Mayor deserves the Respect
of the people of Hawaii County and should be applauded for the many, many services he has provided
during his terms as our Mayor.
N C-)
Comm. No.
Ref. To: -
Ref. Date SEP 16 2015 0-
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