HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0107.210 2016-2018 -COUN TY CLERK=
From: Sarahw, '
To: Council Testimony; Kanuha,Dru; Poindexter,Valerie; Eoff,Karen R'ha7 aron0gh `-Etl Lee Loy,Sue;
Ruggles,Jennifer; David,Maile; Richards,Tim
Subje
Testimony,Bill
September 06,2017 10:18:38 AM � SEP �� AN ���
32
Date: Wednesday,
Wednesday, June 2nd, 2017
Members of the Council:
Since I am not able to make it to tomorrow's hearing in Hilo, I am writing to you today
in strong support of Bill 13, an effort to reduce polystyrene waste on our island.
By now, many of you have heard what I have to say about this matter, so I will keep
this short and sweet:
• The use of polystyrene is entirely unnecessary. Over 100 other
ordinances across the country have deemed this material obsolete, the first
few dating back 30 years.
• Meeting our waste management goals is necessary. Support for this bill
would align with the county's "Zero Waste" plan by significantly reducing the
volume of waste heading to our landfills every day.
• Alternatives are available. They are affordable, and they are effective.
Additionally, this bill does not require the use of compostable products, only
the non-use of polystyrene products. I believe the emphasis on financial strain
by forcing small business owners to purchase expensive alternatives has
been highly exaggerated in the case of this legislation.
• A massive portion of our local economy depends on the preservation of
our natural resources. Legislation that reduces non-biodegradable waste
from ending up in our waterways and on our beaches is a smart investment
for our island's future, both environmentally and economically.
To date, over 5,800 individuals have signed my petition supporting this
legislation in Hawaii County. Many individuals have shared comments along with
their signatures; you can read those comments here. I began this petition not as an
affiliate or member with any non-profit, but simply as a concerned citizen. That
was three years ago - please hear our support and pass Bill 13!
Mahalo nui loa for your time,
Sarah Rafferty
(808) 333-4717
PO Box 4513
Kailua Kona, HI
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