HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0722.006 2016-2018 COUN 21 CLERK
COUNTY OF HAWAI'I
RECEIVEDL
Honorable Finance Chair Maile David and Councilmembers, Time 3.O2P 4 By
Date al 7 /20/0
Subject: Support Hawai'i County Bill 102 —Built Environment
My name is Tina Clothier. I have been a resident of Hawaii County for 39 years. For all of those
years, I have been an advocate for multi modal transportation and the design of streets that
support all users , be they walking, biking or using public transportation.
Bill 102 will establish a one-half percent (0.5%) general excise tax increase, and use the
surcharge for operating or capital costs of transportation within the county for systems, including
public roadways, public transportation including bikeshare, pedestrian paths, sidewalks
and bike paths.
I believe that there will be several community benefits derived from passign Bill 102:
1. Mass Transit
While increasing the GET will have economic implications for all, especially low and moderate-
income households, I believe that the development of a robust and efficient transit system is a
critical link for low and moderate-income families who rely on public transportation. In addition to
providing this critical link to school, work and healthcare, an island-wide transportation system
would reduce our traffic congestion; lessen our dependence on personal vehicles; reduce our
use of fossil fuels; reduce our carbon footprint and move us towards a more sustainable Hawaii
County.
2. Bikeshare
Expanding the existing the Bikeshare system in Kona and implementing systems in Hilo and
Waimea, will create neighborhoods where people's daily needs can be met within a 20-minute
walk, a quick bike ride, or a transit trip. As a "first mile/last mile" transportation mode, Bikeshare
makes it more affordable to navigate our neighborhoods, while providing health, economic, and
environmental benefits for the broader community.
3. Pedestrian walkways, Bike lanes, Shared Use Pathways
The need for pedestrian and bicycle routes in rural environments is critical from a safety
standpoint, as more people are killed on rural roads than in urban environments. In addition,
many people who live in rural environments do not drive and need accessible mobility options.
The need for pedestrian walkways, shared use pathways and bicycle routes is critical from a
health standpoint, as Hawaii County has the highest level of diabetes in the state. Pathways
such as the Hilo Bayfront Trail, Walua Trail, Waimea Trails and Greenways and Queens' Lei
are community assets that improve our health and our quality of life.
Creating a network of ped and bike "facilities" around schools zones will also accelerate the
County's Safe Routes to School efforts to keep our keiki safe and healthy. These types of
facilities also do much to revitalize small town main street corridors and increase community
health through active transportation.
I strongly support Bill 102 Draft 01 2016-2018 and asks your support for the Bill's
passage.
Thank you for your consideration in supporting this bill.
7/1-..\:Mrn. leo. 1 a2 1 cP
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Ref. bate FEB 6 2 2018