HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN COUNCIL 2016/07/07 2014-2016
Hawaiʻi County Building
th
45 Session
Hawaiʻi County Building
25 Apuni Street
Hilo, Hawaiʻi
July 7, 2016
INVOCATION: Pastor Charles Kama of Hale Pule Keola Ho, gave the morning’s invocation.
CALL TO The regular meeting of the Hawaiʻi County Council was called to order at
ORDER: 9:02 a.m., in the Council Chambers, Hilo, by Mr. Dru Mamo Kanuha, Chair.
ROLL CALL:
Present: Mr. Dru Mamo Kanuha, Chair
Ms. Valerie T. Poindexter, Vice Chair
Mr. Aaron S. Y. Chung, Member
Ms. Maile “Medeiros” David, Member
Ms. Karen Eoff, Member
Mr. Greggor Ilagan, Member
Mr. Dennis “Fresh” Onishi Member
Mr. Danny Paleka, Member
Ms. Margaret Wille, Member
CHR. KANUHA: We do have two Eagle Scouts Awardees that I’d like to have
come up here and if you could stand, and lead us into the Pledge of Allegiance.
We’re all going to stand up anyways.
PLEDGE OF The Chair directed the Council to the next order of business, Pledge
ALLEGIANCE: of Allegiance.
(At this time, Jon Brandon Baca and Steven Barrett Baca led the Council
in the Pledge of Allegiance.)
PETITIONS, The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business,
MEMORIALS Petitions, Memorials, Certificates of Merit, and Expressions of Condolence.
CERTIFICATES
OF MERITS, AND (Note: At this time, Mr. Paleka presented a Certificate of Merits to Eagle
EXPRESSIONS Scout Awardees Jon Brandon Baca and Steven Barrett Baca for
OF CONDOLENCE: Prestigious Eagle Scout Honors serving 12 years.)
MR. PALEKA: Chair, could we take a brief recess for some photos?
CHR. KANUHA: Sure we’re in recess.
Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Recess: At 9:14 a.m., the Chair called for a recess.
Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 9:16 a.m.
CHR. KANUHA: Okay. We are coming out of recess. Next up we have
Mr. Chung for his Certificate presentation
(Note: At this time, Mr. Chung presented a Certificate of Merit to
Kayla Araki, recipient of the 2016 Hawaiʻi High School Athletic
Association’s State Judo Championship.)
Recess: At 9:25 a.m., the Chair called for a recess.
Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 9:28 a.m.
CHR. KANUHA: Okay, we are coming out of recess. Mahalo, Mr. Chung and
Mr. Paleka, for your certificates. Next on the agenda items we have Approval of
Minutes.
Change Order As directed by the Chair and with no objection from the Council Members, the
of Business: following items were taken out of order.
APPROVAL The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Approval
OF MINUTES: of Minutes.
Vote on Motion to Ms. David moved to approve the minutes of June 3 and
Approve Minutes July 1, 2015. Seconded by Ms. Eoff was carried by the
(Approved) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Chung, David, Eoff,
Ilagan, Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha – 9.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. On to oh, Statements from the Public. We can
do Statements from the Public on Agenda Items.
Return to Order The Chair directed the Council to return to the order of business.
of Business:
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
STATEMENTS The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business,
FROM THE Statements from the Public on Agenda Items.
PUBLIC ON
AGENDA ITEMS: The following individuals registered to speak and came forward when
called by the Chair:
Harry Kim: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), in opposition.
Joseph Kamelamela: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), in opposition.
Thomas Fine Sr.: Res. 534-16, Draft 2, (Comm. 143),
in support.
Genevieve Anderson: Res. 534-16 Draft 2, (Comm. 143), in
support.
Diane Kanealii: Bill 210 (Comm. 889), in opposition.
Pat Engelhard: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), in opposition.
Kuʻulei Arceo: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), in opposition.
Robert Gierke: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), comment.
(Representing the Hawaiʻi
County Band)
Paul Arceo: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), comment.
Sandra Sato: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), in opposition.
Ingrid P. Dean: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), in opposition.
(Representing the Hawaiʻi
County Band)
Lloyd Taira: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), in opposition.
Christian Wong: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), in opposition.
Avery Wong: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), in opposition.
Anthony Adams: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), comment.
Stephen Palmore: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918) in opposition.
Jenifer Tsuji: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), in opposition.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Howard Oshiro: Res. 548-16 (Comm. 918), in opposition.
(Representing the Hawaiʻi
County Band)
Wendell Leite: Res. 548-12 (Comm. 918), in opposition.
CHR. KANUHA: Being that was the last testifier, is there anyone else wishing to
testify at this time? Please let me know, here in Hilo or in the outer sites. I will
close Public Testimony and move on with the agenda. But before we move on I
do want to take a brief recess and come back. Council Members it’s okay brief
recess?
MR. ILAGAN: Mr. Chairman?
CHR. KANUHA: Mr. Ilagan?
MR. ILAGAN: Can we also take resolution regarding the band out of order?
CHR. KANUHA: I was planning to do that.
MR. ILAGAN: Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: So we are in recess. And we will come back to discuss this
issue. Thank you. We’re in recess.
Recess: At 10:17 a.m., the Chair called for a recess.
Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 10:47 a.m.
CHR. KANUHA: We are coming out of recess. Mahalo, for being patient with
us.
COMMUNI- The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business,
CATIONS: Communications.
(There were none.)
CHR. KANUHA: Mr. Clerk, if we could start with Resolution 548-16.
Change Order As directed by the Chair and with no objections from the Council Members, the
of Business: following items were taken out of order:
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Res. 548-16: DIRECTS THE CLERK OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I TO TAKE
NECESSARY ACTION TO PLACE THE CHARTER AMENDMENT
PROPOSED BY ORDINANCE NO. 15-81 ON THE 2016 GENERAL
ELECTION BALLOT
Directs the Clerk to place a ballot question for Ordinance No. 15-81, relating to
County bands, on the 2016 General Election ballot for approval by the voters of
the County on November 8, 2016.
Reference: Comm. 918
Intr. by: Mr. Kanuha
Motion to Approve: Mr. Onishi moved to adopt Res. 548-16. Seconded by
Mr. Ilagan.
CHR. KANUHA: Before I give the floor to Mr. Onishi, I kind of want to give a
little direction to the Council on where we want to go on debate purposes. Again,
this ordinance was passed and voted on by the Council last year in August, and
signed by the Mayor. We have had ample discussion about the merits of that bill,
and what encompasses the contents of that bill.
Currently today on the floor is a question that is being sent to the Clerk to put it
on the ballot. How we move forward, Council, is I’m going to try and stay away
from the actual contents of the Charter amendment. If you’d like to discuss the
merits of this resolution, and how we move forward with that, that’s the question
before us right now. If we’d like to go in that direction, I’d really appreciate it.
And I’m going to keep everybody towards that specific direction, because that’s
what we have currently at the table. Ms. Wille, any confrontation?
MS. WILLE: Yeah, and what if we disagree with that approach? Just so you’re
not calling us out of line.
CHR. KANUHA: You can disagree with it, but I’m going to keep you to the
actual question that we have before us. You know, my job as Chair is to try to
keep everybody towards what is currently on the table. And there is the actual
resolution that’s before us, putting a certain measure that was passed by the
Council onto directing the Clerk to put it on the ballot, to be voted on by the
public.
MS. WILLE: Okay. Then as a point of information, what’s the impact if we vote
against this?
CHR. KANUHA: That’s up for discussion.
MS. WILLE: The impact is up for discussion or there’s a—
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
CHR. KANUHA: Yeah. Absolutely, that’s part of the question of debate. On
what happens if we vote for this, and what happens if we vote against this.
MS. WILLE: Okay. Before we discuss that maybe we could have a little input.
CHR. KANUHA: You can say why you’re going to be voting against it, or for it.
MS. WILLE: Okay.
CHR. KANUHA: Again, this resolution that’s before us is just a simple
housekeeping matter. Anything that was passed by the Council for Charter
amendments shall be put by resolution through the Council on directing the Clerk
to put it on the ballot. That’s just how it is. This isn’t on the merits of why we
voted for the bill previously, you know, all the different reasons why. I just kind
of want to direct the Council towards that. Mr. Onishi.
MR. ONISHI: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Can I have Molly to come up?
(Note: At this time, Corporation Counsel Molly Stebbins came forward to
address the members of the Council.)
MS. STEBBINS: Good morning, Chair Kanuha and members of the Council.
Molly Stebbins, Corporation Counsel.
MR. ONISHI: Molly maybe you can explain to the Council Members, and to the
public of what is this process that we’re doing right now. And maybe explain like
if we say don’t vote for it, or if we vote for the reso, what happens.
MS. STEBBINS: Okay. As Chair Kanuha mentioned, what’s before the Council
today is a resolution directing the Clerk to put the language contained in
Ordinance 15-81 on the ballot. It’s essentially just a procedural matter that’s
pursuant to language in the Charter. Whenever there is a Council initiated Charter
amendment, or also a voter initiated Charter amendment, the Charter provides that
the Council shall by resolution, direct the Clerk to put the language on the ballot
for the voters to decide on. That’s what this resolution does. The actual
ordinance of course, was already voted on last August and September.
MR. ONISHI: Okay, so if we say don’t approve the resolution that goes to the
Clerk, then what happens?
MS. STEBBINS: Okay. I had some discussion with the Clerk’s Office about
that, and honestly that’s a good question. We don’t have a really good answer for
you today. I think the resolution is before you, you have a choice in how you vote
on it. However keep in mind that when the ordinance to amend to propose a
Charter amendment was passed, it had to go through three readings, and pass by
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
two-thirds majority. If you could affectively defeat that ordinance by now not
passing the reso, which is just a procedural mechanism to direct the Clerk’s Office
to put it on the ballot. I think that’s setting a really bad and dangerous precedent,
by extension, if you could just not pass this resolution, and therefore not have the
question submitted to the voters. You could conceivably also do that with a voter
initiated Charter amendment, because similarly you’re required to by resolution
direct the Clerk to put the language on the ballot.
So not passing the resolution puts the Clerk’s Office in a really bad position as far
as how to proceed. We already have passed this ordinance that initiates the
Charter amendment. If you were not to pass this resolution, I don’t know exactly
what the result would be. But it sets a bad precedent to attempt to defeat the
ordinance that was already passed in such a manner.
MR. ONISHI: The other question is, what if we postponed it to the call of the
Chair?
MS. STEBBINS: Well again, you have this ordinance that’s initiating a Charter
amendment to go on the 2016 ballot. So I guess I would caution you on using that
kind of legislative mechanism, to defeat something that this Council, this body did
pass through three readings and two-thirds vote.
MR. ONISHI: You know, why I mentioned that is just that listening to the
testimony today. It’s like there’s a lot of information that I guess was to me
misinterpreted. So because of our rules and because of our situation with this
resolution, now we cannot explain why this amendment was done. That way it
would clarify to the public on what the intent was. That’s why to me, if the Chair
could make this a short leeway where we could kind of drift off a little bit from
this resolution. Or maybe take a recess, and I could explain to the public without
Council Members here on what had happened.
Point of MR. CHUNG: Mr. Chairman, just point of information, personal privilege.
Information:
CHR. KANUHA: Mr. Chung.
MR. CHUNG: I think it might be best if Mr. Onishi was given some latitude to
explain the genesis of this whole measure. I mean he’s the introducer, he should
explain it. And then we go from there, at least we have a better understanding of
what’s going on.
CHR. KANUHA: Okay, thank you, Mr. Chung. I was going to do that in the first
place. What I don’t want to get into is it going from Mr. Onishi and everybody
else explaining the whole reason behind why we voted for it and the merits for the
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
actual ordinance itself and all of the contents of that. I don’t want to set a bad
precedent, because if I give Mr. Onishi that, I’m going to give it to everybody
else.
Point of MS. POINDEXTER: Point of clarification. But I still can say, why am I
Clarification: not supporting or supporting this. Which will give me some leeway on explaining
why I’m not supporting it. That could be—
CHR. KANUHA: Yes, if you have a reason why you’re going to support this
resolution or this ballot question being sent to the Clerk to put it on the actual
ballot, in favor of or against that. I mean you can definitely explain your
reasoning behind that. Mr. Onishi still has the floor.
MR. ONISHI: Thank you, Mr. Chair. But the thing too is if you vote against the
resolution, like Ms. Stebbins was saying, it might hurt the process. Because it
kind of states in there we shall—what was the wording in there again?
MS. STEBBINS: The Charter provides that the Council shall by resolution
provide that the proposed amendments be submitted to the electors of the County
for approval at the next General Election.
MR. ONISHI: And then what happened is that we went through the whole
process of those four readings with everybody voting unanimous. We could
possibly vote against the reso, but now what does it say? I’ll yield at this time and
see what happens.
CHR. KANUHA: I know Mr. Chung and Mr. Ilagan were fighting for first place.
Mr. Ilagan.
MR. ILAGAN: Mr. Chung, do you want it? I do want to speak, you were the
first one to be recognized.
MR. CHUNG: Yeah.
CHR. KANUHA: Mr. Chung.
MR. CHUNG: Going to make statements at the risk of having the Chairman get
all angry at me. I think it’s inescapable. We have to somewhat touch upon the
merits of the underlying legislation. Cannot help it, I’m going to try and keep it
real brief Mr. Chairman, because I’m going to be voting either against this
measure today, or to possibility postpone it. It doesn’t have to go on the ballot
this time, because maybe we can tweak the language. Instead of taking out, you
know, reference to the County Band all together, we can change some language.
Keep the County Band in there, but change some of the language in there to make
it consistent with what we’re trying to achieve. That’s just my thought.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
You know, it’s real interesting listening to everybody here, because as legislators
or decision makers we have to look at all perspectives. And the three perspectives
that I really saw, you know, one that maybe escaped all of you, or two that may
have escaped all of those people who are supporting the band, as one County we
have to look at things from a fiscal standpoint too, yeah, if something is not
needed maybe it’s got to be removed. That’s one perspective, I’m not saying I
subscribe to that perspective. But it is something that we have to look at as
responsible decision makers.
The other one is that it was a housekeeping matter, and I really believe that was
what Mr. Onishi’s intention was. I don’t want to put words in his mouth, I’m not
too sure but I think that’s what it was, to make things be consistent with State law.
But the last perspective is the one that you guys all made real clear to all of us.
And you know, I had some telephone conversations with some of you yesterday.
It was very educational and enlightening. Given the background, I don’t think
any of us were here except for Mr. Onishi when there was a move to get rid of the
band around 2008-2009. I think that for lack of better phrase, you know, you
created a lot of PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) on the part of the band
members. It was a bad experience, you know, I wasn’t around. But I was around
back in 1999 or 1998 when a similar move was made. The Council fought very
hard to restore the funding for the band, that’s how I know Mr. Leite. I don’t
know if he’s still around, but he still looks the same as he looked back then
20 years ago. And he has that same amount of advocacy for the band. I think the
band members were really on a heightened state of alert. And you know, you
heard the word “agenda” a lot of times, you know, is there an agenda. They were
really concerned, I just sensed it.
You know, it’s funny. Harry Kim was here earlier, and he’s the guy who 30 years
ago who told me it’s not what you do, but how you do it. I think the way this
thing went about was not really done well, because it’s only now that I understand
that our Band Master Mr. Arceo wasn’t even involved in any of this. He wasn’t
even notified, he only found out from reading the newspaper. You would think
that something that affects them, and have them being on this heightened state of
alert would make them at least be part of the process, yeah.
I disagree respectfully with the Corporation Counsel’s argument that it sets a bad
precedent. The reason for that measure that would be a slap in the face of the
voters, if we were to say “No, doesn’t go on the ballot.” But we’re the guys who
passed this thing. We’ve gotten new information, it’s too late for us to reconsider
it. So this is our only avenue, and it’s a real important thing.
You know, a lot of people talked about the importance of the arts here. Yeah, I
mean technically speaking we don’t have elderly activities in the Charter. We
don’t have all these important measures in the Charter, or departments or
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
sub-departments in the Charter. But there’s something real intrinsic about the
County Band. This thing was there from the time that the framers of the Charter
developed in 1969 I think. They must have seen some reason for its importance
to be in there, to occupy a special place in the Charter. I just think we should give
deference to them, so maybe a better way to go is hold off on it. I don’t know
what the will of this Council is, but I’m going to just see if you guys want to vote
no. I’m certainly in favor of that. You guys want to postpone it, I’m in favor of
that too for the purpose of tweaking language, but keeping reference of the
County Band in the County Charter. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Mr. Chung. Mr. Ilagan.
MR. ILAGAN: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I just want to first mention, I know
you’re trying to make this process as civil as possible. Also at the same time I
believe we do need to mention that for my position regarding Resolution 548-16, I
want to make sure that people understand that I firmly support the band. I want to
make sure that everyone knows I will be opposing Resolution 548-16. And the
reason why is because, Mr. Chung explained it, this is pretty much our final
action. And if we don’t do anything here with the new information that we
received—because initially I voted for it because I thought it was a housecleaning
bill. And we’re doing something good for the band.
Now, knowing that there are unintended consequences if we remove and repeal
that part of the Charter. I just want to also mention, looking at the past budget,
that we did increase the band’s funding. I’m looking at it right now, it’s on the
salary and wages. So I voted for it because I thought that we were making sure
that the band was okay. I also did not understand that the introducer didn’t talk to
not only the band members, but the band master. To me, I’ve always been
advocating for having the process of getting input from the people who are
affected. So I’m a bit—and I wasn’t sure. Mr. Onishi, did you contact the band?
MR. ONISHI: Just to clarify, when I started to look at this, and it happened
where I just was looking in the Charter book. I contacted Parks and Rec, and I
asked them for their opinion. Then from there I also asked Corp. Counsel for
their opinion before we did anything. So I was hoping that Parks and Rec would
have talked to the band master, because that’s their responsibility. So I gave them
the opportunity to respond back to me, and what they felt.
MR. ILAGAN: And it should be even my duty to go and talk to the band,
because this came before me. I should have gone out to talk to the band members,
but I didn’t do that. Now with the new information that I got, I feel there is no
mention regarding the County Band or a County Code. Now the only thing, that
the band is mentioned is in our Charter. If we eliminate that outright passing this
resolution, technically the band is not even in existence other than on our budget.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
I think what we should do, and I’m proposing this as a solution, is not only to
oppose Resolution 548-16, but also introduce legislation to appeal
Ordinance 15-81. Due to the fact that it has passed the Council and signed by the
Mayor, it’s law. We should know what the process to repeal laws, and we should
start with Ordinance 15-81.
I want to bring our Deputy County Clerk who deals mostly with that process,
Mr. Henricks. Are you available? While Mr. Henricks is getting situated, for one
thing I just want to thank all the testifiers who came, because without your
testimony I would have had the same mindset that I had before. And now I’m
glad that you gave me some insight, because I recognize that I should have done a
little more research regarding this issue. Mr. Henricks, I wanted to ask you a
question on how to repeal ordinance if a Council Member were to go about that
matter.
MR. HENRICKS: Jon Henricks, Deputy County Clerk. In repealing
Ordinance 15-81 specific to this, we probably would have to look—I don’t recall
an ordinance to propose a Charter amendment ever being repealed, so we’d have
to look into that. Off the top of my head I would think it would take the same
circumstances as it took to pass it, so three readings, super majority. So that
certainly will take some time to accomplish. Without looking into anything
further, a simple ordinance repealing Ordinance 15-81, you know, one page. But
under the circumstances three super majority, goes to the Mayor, comes back, and
now it’s the ordinance that has standing.
MR. ILAGAN: I agree with that process. And just to clarify, we do have time to
go through all those readings, till November, is that correct?
MR. HENRICKS: Except that we’d have to provide the ballot question by
August 25. So that’s kind of the conundrum that we’re in there.
MR. ILAGAN: Okay. That conundrum I believe can be really justified on the
first reading. If it doesn’t go through the first reading on that appeal, most
likely—I’m just saying this is one of those things that I am foreseeing is that, if
we don’t approve it on the first reading, yeah it’s not going to go through. But if
it goes through the first reading most likely it’ll go through the first, second, and
the third, and hopefully it’ll get repealed.
The reason why I’m proposing this is because we have now a bill that made into
law. We should do something about it, instead of just opposing
Resolution 548-16. We should also repeal the ordinance, and I feel this is a fair
process of what we have done. I want to urge our Council Members to oppose
this, because there are unintended consequences that I never saw and I hope
Council Members also see it now. And leaving it in the Charter, I feel is a wise
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
choice regardless of maybe contradictions on State laws. We had passed
legislation in this body contradicting State laws, and I’m just going to yield at this
time. Because I have spoken too much, but thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Wille.
MS. WILLE: First I want to say, I resent the statements made by Corporation
Counsel, the sponsor, and even the Chair. Going back that we all passed this and
had three readings, and that therefore—
Point of CHR. KANUHA: Point of Clarification, Ms. Wille. It was just a—
Clarification:
MS. WILLE: Okay, Okay.
CHR. KANUHA: What the process was.
MS. WILLE: Let me finish, and then you respond.
CHR. KANUHA: No. I’m clarifying to what you said. Okay.
MS. WILLE: Okay, I got that.
CHR. KANUHA: I stated that this did go through three readings.
MS. WILLE: Yes, I heard that.
CHR. KANUHA: Was passed by the Council, and signed by the Mayor.
MS. WILLE: Yes, I heard that.
CHR. KANUHA: Okay.
MS. WILLE: Okay. My point is that it was as a housekeeping matter. And that
was what was said. When we hear that something’s a housekeeping matter, I
don’t expect to then be going out and investigating it. And I also think in terms of
the sponsor, who tends to be a real stickler. Have you checked with people? Well
maybe somebody else should do it. So I just want to make it very clear that this
was done as a quote, unquote housekeeping matter, we were bringing this up to
date to what the current practice is. That’s how we did it. I don’t go to a certain
amount of trust that, that’s the case. As I read the version here of what we’re
doing, it says the Council “shall.” So we’re acting like this was Council Member
Onishi’s bill. But it’s under the Chair, because I’ve another Charter amendment
coming up right after this. It’s not Margaret Wille, it’s the Chair.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
I think that if the entire Council as a whole votes it down, then that removes that
action of the Council. I think that every member here should vote it down. If you
read there it’s the Council, it’s not a vote or majority vote or whatever it is. So I
think we just all vote it down, and deal with how we figure it out. And you all
can figure it out. But we all came to our vote based on a misstatement, and
misunderstanding of what the intent was. Regardless, I’ll be voting against it, I
mean obviously it shouldn’t go up. And let all of our lawyers figure it out, what
the proper process is, and just move on. Vote on this, and not dilly dally. Okay.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. Wille. Ms. Poindexter.
MS. POINDEXTER: I’ll be supporting a postponement on this, and then we can
look at pushing forward some kind of other amendment to it or repeal. I would
say amendment to it, because the reason for this, and this is my understanding and
why I think most of us voted for it, it was that the County Charter was in conflict
with the State Civil Service Law, and that the language being removed is in
conflict with Hawaiʻi Revised Statues provisions regarding civil service. The bill
will bring the language consistent with the current practice and what State Civil
Service Law requires. So that’s what we, and that’s why I was voting for it. That
was real clear, because we we’re trying to clean it up so that we’re in compliance.
Because we’re not right now. How do we make that better? Maybe it is
amending it at a later time, and that’s why I’m saying I would prefer to support a
postponement and not vote against this whole process, which may cause more
setting precedence. Or I don’t know more—I think you kind of explained it. Can
you explain that again on why it would be difficult when you talked about voting
against it and not passing it through?
MS. STEBBINS: I just cautioned the Council that essentially if you take the
position, you can defeat this bill by not passing the reso. It’s almost like giving
the bill that had to go through three reading and passed by two-thirds vote, a
fourth reading that can be defeated by just not passing this resolution. So you
have resolution defeating an ordinance.
MS. POINDEXTER: Right. I totally agree with that. So I hope the public
understands why I’m not supporting say “no.” But I would support the
postponement definitely. I know it’s still going on a slippery slope, but it’s a
better slope than voting it down, because of exactly what she said. We can have a
bill come through and then later on say hey you know what, we voted for the bill.
And the Mayor signs, and that whole process means nothing. Basically voting it
down says that process was nothing.
And I’m not just talking about this situation, I’m talking about the process of
getting an ordinance through. That’s why I would love to support a postponement
at such time after everybody speaks, I don’t know if I would make the motion or
someone else is willing to make that motion. I don’t want to vote it down, I
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
support a postponement. I’m not saying I’m going to vote “yes” on it, if we’re
forced to do it that way. But I’m just saying the reason why I’m saying, I need to
support a postponement. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Eoff.
MS. EOFF: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I’m willing to support a postponement,
because it seems like if we don’t authorize the Clerk to go forward with enough
time then it just lingers. It won’t go to the ballot. Bill 62 that we passed, to me it
just doesn’t really change the law anyways, because it was just to propose a
Charter amendment. So we can’t enact that anyways, so it’s just sitting there also
in limbo. I think that might be the safest thing to do.
Later on maybe we can go back to Mr. Onishi’s original intent, which was to
bring us into compliance, which should have been his draft one. We should have
stuck with that I believe. Draft one would have been acceptable to the band
members as well, because it just protects their status under civil service as
members. And yet the band would still be mentioned in the Charter, as being a
part of Parks and Rec. To me, I don’t really recall how we got from draft one to
draft two. I remember having a question and then I think I too was either not fully
comprehending, or just feeling confident that all we we’re doing was
housekeeping to do just that. Now that I have heard from everybody, and I feel
like my fellow Council Members, we don’t want to do anything to jeopardize the
County Band. So to me maybe the postponement is a good idea. I’m willing to
vote “no” too if that’s the will of the Council on this resolution.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. David.
MS. DAVID: Mahalo, Chair. First of all, I really want to thank the members of
the band for coming out this morning and taking the initiative to come and make
us aware that we basically have given all the reasons that my fellow Council
Members have stated. We made a mistake on this one. Thinking that it would be
a housekeeping issue that did not have any negative ramifications, so I appreciate
all your testimonies this morning.
My position will be to support a postponement and if need be, I’ll vote “no” if it
has to go forward. I think what Ms. Eoff said is that first version that Mr. Onishi
had submitted, I think it’s something that we all assumed this was going to be at
one point. If we postpone this, I want to make sure that it doesn’t reflect badly on
the responsibilities of the County Clerk’s Office also. Because they’re bound by
the law to proceed with the Charter amendment regardless. I’m not sure how
much time we have, and I don’t want to talk about those kind of things. If we
postpone this, then maybe the Clerk’s Office and Corp. Counsel can figure out a
way on how we can amend this in the interim and submit something the people
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
would want and keep that Charter language about the County Band in our Charter,
and fix the problem with the civil service. I will be supporting the postponement,
and if it goes to a vote I would have to not support it either. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Mr. Paleka was up next. When you’re ready.
MR. PALEKA: Thank you, Mr. Chair. In supporting this measure, for myself of
course it was always for benefits. The civil service advocate extraordinaire.
After hearing testimony today, it’s become obvious there may have been a lack of
communication. Oh, there was a lack of communication. To me the solutions
that we could look at is just having a little discussion perhaps proposing another
partner bill. My feeling is, if this bill would continue to the public anyway, it
would die. The voters would just vote this down, so you know, I’m pretty
confident with that. Because I would certainly be out there saying, you know,
that we shouldn’t even vote for this, because it’s not what the people want.
The concerns I have is if we do postpone it, what type of security we have in
getting something out there, because we were tasked with putting something to
the voters in the resolution, that was the purpose. I know the intent was to
guarantee better benefits for our band, but the perception is that in taking it out of
the Charter, it doesn’t show the dedication or commitment to our band. I don’t
think anything could be further from the truth, with at least for myself and for our
public we know how much we love our band.
My whole family is in music, so I cannot relate to go against that. Being raised in
a musical family and I do appreciate how important the arts are—I would be
willing for postponement, and even letting it go forward. Because I’m positive
this would die, I’m positive it will die. Our job here is to have good legislation
for our people, so it’s obvious that it needs to be amended at least. So whatever
way we find best where we can do it, let’s just do it, it’s our job. And I think
we’re all in agreement with that, we’re just kind of feeling our way in the dark on
how we’re going to get this done. I shouldn’t speak for all of us, but I think we’re
all in agreement of what you want. Thank you, Mr. Chair, and thank you all for
coming out. I was not aware of some of the situation, but I’m glad to be informed
now. Thanks.
CHR. KANUHA: Mr. Onishi.
MR. ONISHI: Thank you, Mr. Chair. You know, I need to clarify again on what
Ms. Wille had mentioned earlier, about the author of this bill. I need to say yes.
Ms. Eoff is correct. When I first proposed that, I did leave the first sentence in the
Charter amendment, which I have here, and it stated—because I wanted to make
sure that the people could see it, right. It states that it would still have the section,
The County Band. “The County Band shall be part of the Department of Parks
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
and Recreation for administrative purposes.” So that would have stayed in and
everything else would have been stricken out, because of following the Civil
Service Law now.
So that was my proposal, but through discussion on July 23 when we had this on
committee, Ms. Wille had made a comment expressing her support for removing
6-3.4 for the County Charter in its entirety. So that was suggested. So then
through discussion, I said, what I’ll do, I’ll make the proposed amendment.
We’re taking out everything for our next discussion. So that became Bill 62,
Draft 2, and that’s what happened. My original bill was to help keep you guys in
there, but through discussions with the Council they wanted to take it out
completely. That’s why we’re here today.
So I did protect you folks, I was thinking of you folks. Because I’ve been there in
the 2009-2010 when you folks was being like on the chopping blocks. You know,
as members came to me and I stated, I always support you guys. I would never
cut you guys, right? So I was over there to support you in 2009-2010, and I’m
still here to support you. But it’s just that’s how it went. We had two different
bills, original and then we had the draft. So that’s why we’re here today. But just
to explain to you guys what had happened at the committee meeting on
July 23, 2015.
Just to let people know, it wasn’t political, and I wasn’t being vindictive. Because
I always supported you guys back in 2009-2010, you know, you guys always have
my support. I just wanted to clarify that. I do support a postponement, because I
think that might be the best way. Or what Mr. Ilagan had mentioned maybe we
can repeal it, but it doesn’t have to go through committees we can waive it to go
strictly to Council and we vote it down on that first reading and it ends. Maybe
possible we can have it at our next meeting if we get it—because I know we
passed the deadline. But then if we get it breached or whatever we can get it
waived, what the process is we can get it on our next meeting. Then we can
repeal it, so that’s an option too. Just wanted to explain to you guys what
happened, and what my intent was. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Mr. Chung.
MR. CHUNG: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for letting me speak again. I’m glad
that Mr. Onishi brought up that factual background. Because the people that I
spoke to on the telephone yesterday, and that’s basically what I said. I said I
don’t think Fresh is intending to jam you guys up or anything like that. It’s just a
well-intended housekeeping matter.
You know, with regard to the postponement verses voting against the—you know,
I said I’d go either way depending how everybody feels comfortable. I wanted to
address something that Ms. Poindexter said, you know, that it’s probably better to
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
go with the postponement. Because of the precedent setting nature of a voting
“no” on this. When you really think about it, same thing. Let’s say it’s a voter
initiated Charter amendment comes to us and if we vote “no” that’s a slap in their
face. If we vote to postpone, we can postpone it indefinitely and that’s just some
subterfuge to say “no.” Same thing really. So it’s really whatever you guys want
to do, I’ll do it. Postponement might be good for the sake of amending, possibly
for the Charter amendment. But really either way is good, and I’ll tell you why.
We’re worried about these legal technicalities, but if the County Clerk follows our
instructions and doesn’t put it on the ballot, who’s going to file a lawsuit against
him? I cannot see anybody filing something against him like a writ of mandamus
saying, you’re mandated to put this on the ballot. Nobody’s going to do that, you
know, for all intents and purposes. I’m not even worried about this thing. Either
way is fine. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you. Mr. Ilagan.
MR. ILAGAN: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Maybe I should have let Mr. Chung
go first, because he’s taken all my point. Actually I was thinking the same thing,
and I like how Mr. Chung thinks. I also wanted to mention that talking over with
th
the Clerk, Mr. Onishi waives it to Council. It gets on the 19 agenda and then we
have August 4, 18, and then working with the Mayor, and getting it signed on the
th
24 of August. This ordinance can be repealed.
I would advise no postponement. Let’s get real here, let’s just say “no.” This is
not a thing that we should be postponing. We should make this bold move, and
we should not approve Resolution 548-16. There is a way we can repeal this
ordinance. We can do in time, and we can correct what we have done. I wanted
to bring Sharon here, Sharon don’t go away yet. I wanted to ask you if you don’t
mind can you please come and introduce yourself. Thank you.
(Note: At this time, Human Resources Director Sharon Toriano came
forward to address the members of the Council.)
MS. TORIANO: Good morning, Council Members and Chair Kanuha. My name
is Sharon Toriano, and I am the Director of Human Resources.
MR. ILAGAN: Thank you, Sharon. Before I ask you my question, I really agree
with one of the testifiers where instead of us taking this on as a Charter
amendment, I believe the Charter Commission within the four years should be the
one taking it on. We have voted in this manner regarding term limits with the
Council, we can do it again with this in the sense of having the Charter
Commission taking it on. Now the reason why I’m even mentioning this is,
because I’ve supported this because of the civil service status situation. I wanted
to ask you, with this being in the Charter will it affect any of the band members
regarding their current position?
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
MS. TORIANO: Speaking from a Human Resources standpoint, when you say
“will affect the band members,” regardless what this Council chooses to do they
will remain in civil service. The statute trumps the Charter.
MR. ILAGAN: And that was my understanding. I just wanted to make sure that
the band members understand that, and the public, the Council, understands that.
Regardless if we’re doing anything regarding this Charter amendment it’s not
going to affect the band. And I’d rather we say “no” to this resolution and then
getting Ordinance 15-81 repealed and going through that process. At the same
time I also want to encourage this body to support an ordinance to put the band in
the County Code. Currently the only mention of the band is in the Charter, and I
want to also say that—I know the Chair is going to cut me off—
CHR. KANUHA: I don’t want to go into possible future legislation, Mr. Ilagan.
MR. ILAGAN: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I understand, I won’t talk about that
anymore. I just want to say that I hope this body will not postpone
Resolution 548-16. I hope they would move towards saying “no.” There is a way
to repeal this ordinance in time. I’ll be the first one to draft it, and get it done
pronto. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Poindexter.
MS. POINDEXTER: I believe that, you know, some statements were made that
nobody would sue the Clerk. These days you don‘t know what crazies are out
there that will sue just because. So why should we take that chance, and put the
liability on the taxpayers back. I don’t believe that. I strongly support a
postponement, because of what I feel is right that, what we did. And if we see
now what the unintended consequence is. Because a lot of times we vote on a lot
of things that we don’t know down the line, we would have an unintended
consequence. And unfortunately this was one of the unintended consequences.
I’m not going to say I made a mistake. With no disrespect to anybody else, but I
really feel that this may have been an unintended consequence, because what I
was lead to believe it was really cleaning it up and getting it right in compliance
with the other laws. Because if Council Member Onishi’s intent was to take it
out, he would have gone to Section 6-6.4 Pension Board, and remove the band
from that section, you know. All of these kinds of stuff and then clean it up that
way, so I know that was not the intent.
A lot of you, and I know a lot of my constituents know, that I wouldn’t vote
against or try and take away the band. That was not the intention. A lot of people
understand that, and I’m glad we had the testifiers come out to face us, to make us
see the unintended consequences. That’s why this process works right now, so I
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
believe in going to the postponement, making it clean and doing it. To me that
would be the right way to do it, is going through the postponement. At this time
I’m still going to support the postponement.
I just want to say a couple of things. I know that somebody said, “Do you guys
ever come out and support the band?” and “Never seen you guys.” I just want to
say that I have been many times, from a little girl, involved with the County Band.
My mom used to sing with the County Band when it was in Honokaʻa, at the
bandstand. I even sang one time many years ago at a Labor Day celebration with
the County Band. So I definitely support the band, I support music. Because
what it brings to our communities regarding even our health situation, not just for
enjoyment, but our health-wise as well. Did you want to say something, Molly?
Thanks.
MS. STEBBINS: Yeah. There’s been comments about, you know, the
unintended consequences of this proposed Charter amendment, and suggestions
that the Council was misled that this was only a housekeeping measure. I do want
to state that this is a housekeeping measure, okay. The proposed Charter
amendment if passed by the voters does not have the effect of eliminating the
County Band, okay. It does eliminate the reference in the Charter to the band, but
whether or not you have the reference in the Charter does not, to be perfectly clear
afford any additional level of protection to the band.
I mean, case in point we saw in 2010 there was a proposal to eliminate the band
through a reduction in workforce. That was a way the Charter provision as it is.
Now that did not end up going forward. I understand there was a lot of strong
feelings about that not happening. But I just want to be clear, because it seems
like the Council is now stating, “Oh, we didn’t know there was—we have new
information, there’s unintended consequences.” The effect of this proposed
Charter amendment, if adopted by the voters, does not eliminate the County Band.
MS. POINDEXTER: Okay, and thank you for that. And I never ever said that I
felt misled. I was not misled by the introducer or any of us. We had good
discussion and we had the discussion with you on why we’re cleaning this up.
And at the time, I even believe that Council Member Wille understood that as
well. So I know that we had all good intentions, it’s just that the perception of the
public and the testimony that came before, that’s what we’re struggling with right
now. Because you know, perception is a reality, so that’s why I’m saying I would
support a postponement. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Wille.
MS. WILLE: I just want to clarify that my intent in terms of our discussion there
was to protect both the band and others affected. In terms of what was called a
housekeeping matter. And that certainly was my understanding, and I do think of
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
it that way. There was a concern in terms of the whole HR (Human Resources)
rules, and I think it’s clear that at least in terms of appearance, we screwed up,
and we need to correct it and figure out what’s the best way to do that. I agree
with Council Member Ilagan and others saying let’s just vote it down and move
on and not do a postponement. And make it very clear, and correct ourselves.
Move on and figure out how to do it. We can do it through, whether it’s through
the resolution or whatever means is the correct process, and just figure out how to
undertake that. And especially what Sharon is saying, I think that we’ll be okay
by doing it. We’re not leaving some—whether it’s the band members or others
that would be affected in the lurch in the meantime.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. Wille. Still on second round Council.
Mr. Onishi, I’m going to give you the last.
MR. ONISHI: Well I’ll make a motion to postpone this, to the call of the Chair.
Motion to Postpone: Mr. Onishi moved to postpone Res. 548-16 to the call of the
Chair. Seconded by Ms. Poindexter.
CHR. KANUHA: On the postponement. Mr. Chung.
MR. CHUNG: Thank you. As I said earlier I’m just going to play it by ear. I got
no problem with the postponing, or voting “no.” But I wanted to point out
something in response to what Ms. Poindexter said. It’s amazing how people will
sue even if you don’t expect it. Whether you postpone or vote against it, they can
sue because it has the same affect. So don’t think by postponing we’re avoiding a
lawsuit if anyone was so inclined. Because based on what Molly says, which I
disagree. The mandatory nature of that Charter provision, which says that we
shall do it by resolution.
If we are mandated to do it and this is all pro forma if our vote here really doesn’t
matter, and we just have to go through the motions of getting it to the ballot then
somebody can sue. They can sue us whether we vote “no” or whether we
postpone. I just want to make sure that everybody is clear on that, because my
preference is to vote “no.” But if I hear everybody say that they’re in favor of
postponement, hey I’ll go with that too, I have no problem. But just make sure
that we understand that people can sue the Clerk either way. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Mr. Ilagan.
MR. ILAGAN: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I want to also point out that we have
the best Corporation Counsel here. If we’re going to get sued, don’t worry we’re
going to win that case. We got this. There’s no lawsuit that’s going to happen,
and I would highly take on what Council Member Chung said, regardless if it’s
postponed or not. We shouldn’t be postponing this, let’s just vote “no” on it.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Yeah, sometimes we’re fortunate to catch on new information now, then along in
the future where it’s unintended consequence. We got new information now, and
we’re able to act on it now. I know some people have different definitions of
what is right, so I respect that. But right now I feel the right thing to do is say
“no” to this resolution and repeal the ordinance. And I hope you won’t postpone
it. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you. Ms. Poindexter, on the postponement.
MS. POINDEXTER: I guess Corp. Counsel, if we postpone it then we can do
special meeting too. Even postponing it, if it’s to the call of the Chair something
could be bought forward with repealing it. In time for them.
MS. STEBBINS: You’re asking if there would be time to bring forward a bill for
th
an ordinance, to repeal this ordinance before August 25.
MS. POINDEXTER: Yeah, because could we do the special council meetings?
MS. STEBBINS: I suppose you could. Time permitting.
MS. POINDEXTER: Again, whether you sue or not, for me it’s just again, the
postponement for me would be the right avenue to go. And the best avenue to go
in my belief, so that’s me just me. I know that other Council Members may
disagree, I’m just sharing with the public that is the avenue. Now if I’m forced to
vote on one or the other, I will. However, I would prefer going through this
matter, in this way, in this manner. So I definitely am supporting the
postponement.
CHR. KANUHA: Okay. Council Members, any other discussion on the motion
to postpone to the call of the Chair? Mr. Clerk, roll call.
Vote on Motion to The motion to postpone Res. 548-16 to the call of the
Postpone: Chair was carried by the following roll call vote:
(Approved)
Ayes: Council Members Chung, David, Eoff,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, and
Chair Kanuha – 7.
Noes: Council Member Ilagan and Wille – 2.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. Resolution 548-16 will be postponed to the
call of the Chair. Mr. Clerk, can we move on to Resolution 549-16?
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Res. 549-16: DIRECTS THE CLERK OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I TO TAKE
NECESSARY ACTION TO PLACE THE CHARTER AMENDMENT
PROPOSED BY ORDINANCE NO. 16-62 ON THE 2016 GENERAL
ELECTION BALLOT
Directs the Clerk to place a ballot question for Ordinance No. 16-62, relating to
the General Plan, on the 2016 General Election ballot for approval by the voters
of the County on November 8, 2016.
Reference: Comm. 919
Intr. by: Mr. Kanuha
Motion to Approve: Ms. Wille moved to adopt Res. 549-16. Seconded by
Ms. Eoff.
CHR. KANUHA: Go right ahead, Ms. Wille.
MS. WILLE: Just to remind everyone what this has to do with was basically
taking the, what is the focus and what is the mission of the General Plan. And
currently the County’s General Plan speaks about that it would be to do a
comprehensive study of the physical development of the County. This Charter
amendment makes it clear that the overarching purpose of General Plan would
include the economic wellbeing of the County, the environmental wellbeing of the
County, and the socio-cultural wellbeing of the County. That significance, just
even in terms of what we were discussing, the arts and the environment. And
looking at things really beyond sort of something that more plays just the
economic development.
I think of it in terms of processing the difference between, you know, like if
you’re standing on one side of a stream. And you just go where’s the next step I
should take, or next rock I should step on verses where do I want to go, to the
other side. You need to have where your dream is, where your mission is, and
where your goals are in order to evaluate your options.
The reason I really brought this up was at a previous meeting when we were
discussing the General Plan. I brought up how the CDP (Community
Development Plan) Action Committees were working on proposals for the
General Plan amendment, and in terms of economic wellbeing, social wellbeing,
and cultural wellbeing. Environmental wellbeing, and he said “No that’s not what
we’re doing here.” That’s not part of this process that made me—well if that’s
not part of the process it should be part of the process, and how do we correct
that. So that is the way we view. Looking at our physical development it really
plays into how we evaluate those options. If we look at we really want to go
towards more mass transit then we’re not just looking at what’s the next road that
should be built. This sort of gives a theatrical construct on how we move
forward.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Point of Order: MR. ILAGAN: Point of order.
CHR. KANUHA: Mr. Ilagan, state your point of order.
MR. ILAGAN: Let us stick to the resolution. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you. This is the same—
MS. WILLE: I just—so people understand what that had to do with, and you
don’t need to interrupt me to do that, Mr. Ilagan. Okay, I just feel people should
know what the context is.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. Wille. I appreciate that, and it’s the same kind
of situation as the last Charter amendment. This is again a resolution directing the
Clerk to put the Charter amendment on the November ballot. Just for clarification
purposes that’s what we’re discussing right now in this particular resolution.
Council Members, anymore discussion on—I know Mr. Onishi and Mr. Chung
aren’t here. I know everybody’s going to vote for it to be put on the ballot, I don’t
know if they want to vote on it or not. I assume we can move forward, I think we
had ample discussion on this particular Charter amendment. I think we’re all safe
to say we can vote on it. Okay, Mr. Clerk, roll call please.
Vote on Res. 549-16: The motion to adopt Res. 549-16 was carried by the
(Adopted) following roll call vote:
Ayes: Council Members David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Paleka, Poindexter, Wille, and
Chair Kanuha – 7.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: Council Members Chung and Onishi – 2.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. Mr. Chung and Mr. Onishi are excused. I
know we have the Fire Department outside, I know we have a lot of people
waiting. I’ve got to just start at the top. Mr. Clerk, Resolution 534-16.
Return to Order The Chair directed the Council to return to the order of business.
of Business:
ORDER OF The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Order of
RESOLUTIONS: Resolutions.
(Note: Items in this category were taken up previously, out of order.)
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Res. 534-16 AUTHORIZES THE EXEMPTION OF CERTAIN CODE REQUIREMENTS,
(Draft 2): PURSUANT TO SECTION 201H-38 AND SECTION 46-15 OF THE
HAWAI`I REVISED STATUTES, FOR HUALALAI HEALTH, LLC, KONA,
HAWAI‘I, COVERED BY TAX MAP KEY: 7-5-010:061
Authorizes the County to exempt the Hualālai Kai Senior Housing project from
certain code requirements to help reduce the cost of producing the affordable
housing portion of the project. The exemptions would waive building and
grading permit fees, requirement for a use permit, the rezoning application
process, road improvements, fair share/impact fees, community development
plan concurrency requirements, and the time requirement to secure Final Plan
Approval under Condition D of Ordinance 03-69.
Reference: Comm. 897.3
Intr. by: Ms. David
Approve: HSSSC-2
Motion to Approve: Ms. David moved to adopt Res. 534-16, Draft 2. Seconded
by Ms. Poindexter.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. David.
MS. DAVID: Mahalo, Chair. Thank you everybody for your patience, and
waiting for this to come on the agenda. I just wanted to make note, that this
matter has been discussed in prior Council meetings to great lengths. I just
wanted to make mention to thank Susan Akiyama and her staff, for providing
some comprehensive explanation of the 201H exemption process, and the
requirements. Which basically, I think she adequately answered all the questions
that the Council Members have raised.
I also would like to secondly thank Liz Hyman and the principals of Hualalai Kai
elderly housing for their corporation and willingness to accommodate the
questions and the issues raised by the Council Members, and make some
adjustments to those request. I really thank you. Because in essence the skilled
nursing and long term care residential facility is very, very, important to the
people in Kona and our seniors. So I thank you folks very much for your
diligence, and for being cooperative in trying to resolve the answers of my
colleagues. With that I support this project wholeheartedly, and I will yield at this
time.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. David. I did want to mention to the public and
the Council, you know, we apologize for the scheduling type of thing. We didn’t
realize that the first item would be four hours or three hours. But we do apologize
to all of you who are here, not only the rest of the items on the Council, but the
items on the committee that were scheduled at 10:30 for Public Works, Finance at
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
10:45, and Planning Committee at 11:15. I do want to apologize to everyone here
about that, but you know, sometimes things happen. So cannot really completely
know the timing of that. Mahalo for being patient with all of us. Ms. Eoff.
MS. EOFF: Thank you, Mr. Chair. This project is located in my district, kind of
right on that boundary between District 8 and District 7, which is Chair Kanuha’s
district, so I have supported it from the beginning. I think it fills a need, and
we’ve heard about that over the last few months.
I know one issue was raised today by a testifier, regarding the plan and making
sure that noise of trash collecting wouldn’t disturb the people in the Pines
Subdivision. Which boarders on the backside. So I would just make sure, I’d like
to urge the applicant that they continue to work with the Pines and keep them
abreast of all the new design plans. I know in the past conversations you’ve had
with that community, and the redesign you have done has been to alleviate any of
their concerns. And you’ve done a really good job with that, and I think for the
most part that community knows that you will continue to work with them.
So I just wanted to say thank you, and thank Ms. Akiyama and Housing for their
work on this. I know it’s been a long road and we worked through a lot of the
concerns now. Thank you very much, and I’m still in support of this project.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. Eoff. Ms. Poindexter.
MS. POINDEXTER: The only reason why I want to speak, I wasn’t going to say
anything, I definitely support the project, you’ve known that all along. I support
the project. I know there’s a testifier that came and said “Don’t make this your
personal agenda.” If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem.”
Because he supports elderly housing and skilled nursing, and all of that. We all
do. I don’t think anyone here does not support it.
So for the public’s information, since that testifier made that public today I want
to say that was not what we were saying or questioning all along for the past
hearings, it was about them coming forward and asking the county to waive the
permitting fees. Our responsibility is to the public, especially when it’s the
public’s resources that would be coming to them. Asking why are you asking to
waive the public’s resources, which is the permitting fees. That was the situation.
So not that any of us or me, I can speak for myself, that did not support a project
like this. Because I’m trying to get these types projects all over, especially in my
community. I support the project, and I now feel comfortable with all of what had
happened at the last meeting and the answers and Susan Akiyama clarifying a lot
of points. So I agree with that. I just wanted to make that clear to the public,
because the testifier came up and maybe didn’t understand all of that. Thank you
very much.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. Poindexter. Ms. Wille.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
MS. WILLE: I will be supporting this. I do want to say that I’ve met with the
Director of Housing, and discussed it. Really not so much in terms of this
specific case, but really working on more clarity for what the process is that we
undergo in terms of this. If you say okay, I’m going to do affordable housing then
you get out of whatever these restrictions that would apply to anyone else. And
how we go about that, and having it also be clear to the public. In other words
that you will qualify, but then like you had to go around to each department and
workout individually what that department was going to allow. And then it may
be that we as the policy body should have a little more clarity in terms of what
those are. And not individual directors on an individual case basis.
My other point was really my understanding is these restrictions on affordable
housing are up in 20 years. You know, that may seem like a long time for some
folks, but I think that if you give up those—what the benefit to the community
that you should then be returning and then repaying some of the benefits you got
at that time. So I think we should not have this, you know, you’re only restricted
20 years and then you’re out of it. And then you could go and have no affordable
housing. Again this is just learning from this experience and how do we improve
it? Wherever I am in 20 years, I don’t expect to hear the affordable housing is
gone.
We have some work on a policy level to do just a clarification, educating the
public. How we make these decisions, so that you as an applicant aren’t going
through all of this. And then you’re coming to us, and “Well I wonder what
they’re going to do.” Here’s your checklist, here’s our checklist we both have the
same checklist idea. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. Wille. Mr. Chung.
MR. CHUNG: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. You know, I’ve always supported this
project and the principles, which it was trying to advance. The only question I
had though whether I supported it to the tune of $2 million opportunity cost from
the County of Hawaiʻi. I mean, was it worth that much?
I asked a lot of questions, and I really can’t say all of them were answered to my
satisfaction. But having thought about everything in totality, and you know, Liz, I
do apologize for not getting back to you. I know you were reaching out to meet
with me, but you know, I’ve made up my mind already. And I didn’t want to
waste anybody’s time. You know, I talked about trust issue the last time, because
I don’t really know you guys, right. I’ve seen a lot of developers come and go,
and they say a lot of stuff and then all of a sudden they’ll turn their property over
to a new bunch of people. Or they don’t fulfill, you know, what they promised.
Only time will tell. But I do know this, you folks have the support of the Council
Members from that district. They see a need, they support your project both in
concept as well as in county monies. If there are problems that come later, then
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
they’re going to have to answer to their constituents in terms of maybe conditions
not being fulfilled. I’m sure they will stay on it, because they’re very diligent in
that regard.
Also I’ve been approached by the Director of Housing, Ms. Akiyama, as well as
our Deputy Managing Director, Bobby Command. The thing when I talk about
trust, we’re like judges up here. We never get to really interact with you guys.
Like months and months that you folks been working with the Housing
department, and Ms. Self from Corp. Counsel as well as other members of the
administration. So they get to have a real good feel for all of you, and then
they’ve come out and supported you as well. And these are people that I really
trust, yeah. So I’m going to be voting “yes” today, just wanted to let you guys
know that. Really we talked about serving our public, our local residents, in
terms of the population you have in your affordable housing project. But
Ms. Poindexter talked about the workers that you hire there, and the people that
you hired to build this place. You know, if you could really at least take this into
consideration as, you know, we can’t control it already after today. But it would
really go a long way in trying to show your commitment to our community too.
That’s just my little bit of advice, but I support you guys. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Mr. Chung. Council Members, any other
discussion? Mr. Paleka.
MR. PALEKA: I will be supporting the project. I’ve been satisfied with the
concerns I had, and it gone forward and approached the organizations that I
thought should be approached. Seems like how my esteemed colleague says, time
will tell, so we’ll see. But I do support in totality what the project is supposed to
do. So I wish you well and please try and take some of the suggestions to heart,
and good luck. Thank you for providing a well-needed service to our community.
Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Mr. Ilagan.
MR. ILAGAN: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I already stated my support earlier on
previous reading, but I wanted to ask a question. So if I can get a representative
to come up. More than half of the units are going to affordable, and the other
remaining. Is that how you guys stay afloat, or how does this project sustain
itself?
(Note: At this time, Hualālai Kai representative Liz Hyman came forward
to address the members of the Council.)
MS. HYMAN: I’m Liz Hyman, I represent Hualālai Kai. That’s a really good
question, and thank you for asking it. The Medicaid payout on the 75 percent or
the 112 beds, is not quite sufficient to cover the cost of providing services. So yes
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
if it were 100 percent Medicaid beds we couldn’t support the project, it would not
be sustainable. So it has to be built into it in such a way that the income and
outgo are equal and it can be sustained into the future.
MR. ILAGAN: Yeah, because I was just thinking about it. I want to make sure
you guys succeed, and this is one way to do that. But other ways is making sure
your business plan is good to go.
MS. HYMAN: It’s a good business plan. You know, we have funding based
upon the business plan. It will work.
MR. ILAGAN: Awesome. I wish you guys luck. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Mr. Ilagan. Any other discussion, Council
Members? Just briefly before I ask for the vote, I’m fully in support of this as I
stated this in the committee. I’m glad to see the rest of the Council’s support as
well, again desperately needed in our community. I look forward to seeing you
guys do good in the community especially over there. So mahalo for what you
do, and again please take into consideration everything that the Council Members
have said here. Thank you. All in favor of the motion to approve
Resolution 534-16 say “aye.”
Vote on Res. 534-16: The motion to adopt Res. 534-16 was carried by the following
(Adopted) voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Chung, David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha – 9.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. Mr. Clerk, I know we have our police officers
and Fire Department here can we that Resolution 543-16?
Change Order As directed by the Chair and with no objection from the Council Members, the
of Business: following item were taken out of order:
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Res. 543-16: AUTHORIZES THE ACCEPTANCE OF THE DONATION OF AUTOMATIC
ELECTRONIC DEFIBRILLATORS (AEDs) FROM THE HILO MEDICAL
CENTER FOUNDATION, FOR USE BY THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY POLICE
DEPARTMENT
Donated by the Hilo Medical Center Foundation, 33 AEDs with an estimated
value of $50,000.
Reference: Comm. 913
Intr. by: Ms. Eoff
Waived: FC
Motion to Approve: Ms. Eoff moved to adopt Res. 543-16. Seconded by
Ms. David.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Eoff.
MS. EOFF: Thank you. And thank you folks for coming, and if you wouldn’t
mind introducing yourselves. I’m just going to turn it over to you to explain.
(Note: At this time, Battalion Chief Lance Uchida, Executive Director for
Hilo Medical Center Foundation Lisa Ranz, and Captain Amy Wana with
the Hawaiʻi Police Department came forward to address the members of
the Council.)
MR. UCHIDA: Good afternoon Lance Uchida, Hawaiʻi Fire Department
Battalion Chief for the EMS (Emergency Medical Services) Bureau.
MS. RANZ: Lisa Ranz, Executive Director for the Hilo Medical Center
Foundation.
MS. WANA: Captain Amy Wana with the Hawaiʻi Police Department.
MS. EOFF: Thank you. Just quickly if you can talk a little bit about this in case
Council Members have any questions.
MS. RANZ: Hello. What we have going is a yearlong in progress with the EMS
Bureau of the Fire Department, and also with Captain Wana with the Police
Department. We’re the only county in Hawaiʻi that does not carry the
defibrillators on the cars, and funding was an issue. So we have forged a
partnership with several donors to raise funds to donate the devices. Not only to
the Police Department, but also to nonprofits in our community through “Be Our
Lifesaver Program.” So I’ll leave cards for you as well.
It’s a wireless campaign around Seven Cardiac Arrest, and with our response time
on the island we’re working with Battalion Chief Uchida to train nursing students
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
and our medical professionals to go out and do bystander only compression
trainings, so that we can train more people to respond when there is a collapse,
thereby buying time for EMS Bureau to get there. So it’s an awareness campaign
marketing around Seven Cardiac Arrest, identifying where the AEDs (Automatic
Electronic Defibrillators) are located. I think PulsePoint will also be coming
before you quite soon, which is an application that people can follow the EMS
Bureau. When a collapse happens it will tell you within 400 feet of where it is, so
that you can respond. It’s getting our population trained with our geography that
would be huge, and then getting AEDs on the police cars as first responders.
Working with nonprofits also with volunteer fire departments as well as more
rural areas with the homeowners associations, so that we can blanket the island
with some life saving devices.
MR. UCHIDA: It’s been a good comprehensive project in collaboration with
Hilo Medical Center Foundation, and County of Hawaiʻi Police and Fire. So you
know, what we did we looked at our cardiac arrest survivor rates here in Hawaiʻi
Island. We started collecting data, or looking back at the data about four or five
years ago. We started at a four percent cardiac arrest survival rate, so what we did
is we applied to an academy in Seattle Washington. The resuscitation academy
where we sent Captain Honda, who is our project lead, to go study their program.
They’re the leaders in the industry, they have a cardiac arrest survivor rate of little
over 60 percent. Meaning that if somebody has a cardiac arrest in Seattle, you
know, six out of ten will walk out of the hospital neurologically intact, which is
remarkable. And obviously we’re not going to be able to achieve something as
robust as them, because of their system and how their geography is laid out and
their response system. But what we did is we took their program we overlaid it to
Hawaiʻi Island, and we identify what Lisa said, our enemy is the response time.
Obviously our geography is large, 4,000 so much square miles, our response time
average about nine minutes. For every minute that cardiac arrest victim goes
without chest compressions without application of an AED the chances of
survival decrease by 10 percent.
When we brought the program back here, we looked at it again, the areas that we
could improve in. And one big area we looked at, you know, what other first
responders in our community already exist. One of them obviously is police, I
mean they’re out there, they’re actually faster than the fire department, and
they’re on the street. And what we proposed to them was that we do the hands
only CPR training, that means no mouth to mouth. We get there with a cardiac
arrest victim and do chest compressions and then applying AED. Again, you
know, partnership with Hilo Medical Center Foundation with the funding source
of getting donors to donate 33 AEDs to the community, I think that’s terrific. We
collect our data and put it into a national registry bank called CARES (Cardiac
Arrest Resuscitation Enhance Survival).
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Like I said we started at four percent, 2014 we already bumped up to 6.3 percent,
2015 went up to 6.8, and to date for this year already we’re at 9.6 percent. We’re
confident that our program is working. This isn’t just another partnership in our
vision of improving cardiac arrest survivors here on Hawaiʻi Island.
MS. EOFF: Thank you, very much. I know at least some of us here on the
Council have direct experience of saving a loved one with defibrillators. So I
think we’re all going to appreciate this that you have. You’ll be equipped.
CHR. KANUHA: Mr. Ilagan.
MR. ILAGAN: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. First of all, congratulations. This is
awesome. Who was the initiator for this program? Was it Fire, Police, or
foundation?
MS. RANZ: The EMS Bureau obviously has been working on this. This is a
passionate area for them. So when it came to us as a foundation, so the Clemens
Foundation is a foundation out of Colorado and Arizona. They have established
“Be A Lifesaver Programs” across the nation. Primarily in Tucson they’ve
partnered with Gooder Foundation, and they supply AEDs to nonprofits.
They were looking to do a donation to the county, and were not successful in
donating AED devices. So it was suggested that they speak with the Hilo Medical
Center Foundation, and that was when I was first brought in as the new executive
director. So we did outreach to see if the county and the EMS Bureau would be
interested in that. And that started the conversations, and so it was one of those
“aha” moments of a collaboration that we could do that will be beneficial. Not
only in east Hawaiʻi, but across the Island of Hawaiʻi.
MR. ILAGAN: Good job. Good job Fire Department. Good job, Lance. I have
some questions, I definitely support what you’re trying to do. I’m glad you guys
followed through with trying to get that funded. My question, because I was
looking into this a while back trying to fund it, and I’m actually here with my
hand wanting to support. Because now that you have AED, there might be
additional cost to maybe maintaining them. I’m not sure if you guys have that
covered. Ain’t nothing like an AED that’s not properly maintained, and now you
have a malfunctioning unit trying to help when you need it. And that’s my
biggest concern, and that concern comes with I would like to help you alleviate
that concern if you lack funding in that area. Have you addressed that part?
MR. UCHIDA: Yes, actually that’s a real good point, and before we actually
wrote it out and talked among each other here, you know, we wanted to make sure
we sustain the program. Like you said, the last thing we want is an AED out in a
community with expired pads or needs batteries. So in the next resolution here
there’s a maintenance program that we’re looking at. So again, that’s something
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
that’s funded through the Hilo Medical Center Foundation. You know, when we
propose a project not only did we want to do proper training, okay, we wanted to
acquire equipment, and then we wanted to do something with a maintenance
package with that as well.
MR. ILAGAN: Oh, so that’s what Resolution 544-16 for.
MS. RANZ: And that’s for the devices that are being placed with HPD.
MR. ILAGAN: Okay.
MS. RANZ: That was proposed by the county. Apparently they saw funds and
pushed that forward. So that is not being paid for by the foundation. As a private
foundation we cannot pay for maintenance contracts, because there’s indemnity
and liabilities all those lovely legal things. The donations that are being done to
the public, we have negotiated discounts with distributors for AED devices to
have business purchase at a discount. You know, pushing forward a huge
discount for us. And part of the proceeds come back to the foundation, so that we
can replace pads and batteries, and keep the program sustainable.
MR. ILAGAN: Oh.
MS. RANZ: So there are plans to continue this. We have funding promises from
three of our funders moving into 2016-2017 funding year. This is something
that’s not a flash in the pan, this is going to be a comprehensive educational
partnership with the EMS Bureau and the county.
MR. ILAGAN: I wanted to ask, in Puna where are the 33 going to be located?
CAPT. WANA: It’s actually 33 units that are going to be distributed amongst the
entire island. Right now as a pilot project it’s going to start out in the Hilo, Kona,
and Puna districts. We will be finding champions—
MR. ILAGAN: Hilo, Puna, and Kona. Okay.
CAPT. WANA: And we will be finding individual officers that will be assigned
to these units. These would be take home units where they will be able to have it
while they’re at work, as well as when they’re at home. Maybe out in the
community at the soccer game, football game, and if an event happened they
would have that available to them.
MR. ILAGAN: Are they going to alternate between shifts? How does that work?
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
CAPT. WANA: They will not be alternating between shifts, they’ll be assigned
to each individual officer because of training that’s required. However I believe it
was nine that was going to be assigned to the Puna district specifically. Three per
watch.
MR. ILAGAN: That makes sense.
MR. CHUNG: Mr. Chairman?
CHR. KANUHA: Point of Order, Mr. Chung?
MR. CHUNG: Personal privilege. Because I don’t know how many more
questions Mr. Ilagan is going to ask, all pertinent. But you know, our committees
were supposed to be starting at 10:30 and a lot of people are waiting here. So I’m
just wondering if you could—
MR. ILAGAN: I got you Mr. Chung. I’ll yield at this time, I got it.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you Mr. Chung. And just real briefly Mr. Ilagan
because you know, we do have—
MR. ILAGAN: I got it Mr. Chairman. I’m going to yield at this time. Thank
you. You answered my questions, thanks.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you.
MR. CHUNG: I just wanted to make sure, I wasn’t trying to cut him short.
CHR. KANUHA: Yeah, that’s what I was trying do. Just for purposes of how
the day is going to go, I do want to break for lunch after a few more items on the
Council. We will come back for council meeting after lunch, and continue on
with the rest of our agenda on the committees. For those that are here waiting for
committees, I do apologize but we probably won’t get to committees until close to
2:00 in the afternoon. Just for those that are here waiting for those items and
Council Members, because we are going to take a brief lunch recess soon.
Ms. Wille.
MS. WILLE: If we could do 542-16 before lunch, and also I wonder if we just
break for lunch at 1:00 p.m.
CHR. KANUHA: Well we’ll get there. There’s definitely a few items that I want
to get through before lunch. Mr. Onishi.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
MR. ONISHI: If we can because there’s some members that’s going to be
leaving like at 3:00 and so forth. To me why don’t we just work it through lunch
and have something that we can eat here. I don’t think the council is going to last
that much longer.
CHR. KANUHA: Well we can just continue right now and see where we’re at.
MR. ONISHI: Sounds good. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Mr. Onishi. Back to the original—sorry
Mr. Ilagan to cut you off we never meant to do that. Just wanted to give some
reasoning behind what’s going to happen today. Discussion? I think Ms. David
was next.
MS. DAVID: Mahalo, Chair. Thank you so much for this service that you folks
have worked very hard for. He asked the question I was going to ask, you know,
the distribution island-wide. I heard Kona, Puna, and Hilo, and I’m just saying
the rural area of my district in Kaʻū, I’d really love to see something like this in
the near future. And if I can help with my contingencies in helping you do that,
please let me know, so maybe we can get a few for Kaū. So call me. Thank you.ʻ
MS. RANZ: Yeah. This is the pilot program and they work very hard in
identifying that, so I won’t speak to that. I’ll let Captain Wana speak to that. But
I would love to sit down with you to talk more about the program and the benefits
of the program, and doing trainings in the Kaʻū area.
MS. DAVID: Perfect, and I’ll help with whatever I can. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. David. Any other discussion? Mr. Onishi.
MR. ONISHI: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I just wanted to say to the medical
foundation this is awesome. Thank you very much. Usually people think you
folks are just helping out just the hospital, and getting funds for that, but to see
you folks reaching to the community, which means that if you can have it treated
outside before it’s coming to the hospital, that’s awesome. I mean the chances of
their surviving comes greater, right. As Ms. David mentioned, that maybe we can
use some of our contingency funds to help purchase more, so it can be provided
island-wide. You know, maybe we need to know like how much it’s going to cost
for the training, how much for the device and the maintenance, yeah.
MS. RANZ: Yeah. And I can certainly send you information on the program and
how it works. The training is free. So we’re working through, you know, train
the trainers program. Captain Honda, Jesses Ebersole, and Battalion
Chief Uchida have been absolutely fabulous in training the nursing students and
the residents, and the residency program to go out and do these trainings. We’re
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
banking it very sustainable, we’re building the health pathways. The big thing
when the foundation hired me was to bring on the give-back programs, and the
outreach to the communities. So develop the later part of the mission, to support
the Hilo Medical Center with programs that benefit the greater community. So
that’s what we’re doing, and we have serval programs that are island-wide. We
are the Big Island Area Health Education Center, so that’s the federal funds
through the school of Medicine. So that gives us the medical students to filter
through and to develop the health pathways, and they feed each other. So it
fulfills the mission, so we’re just please and very happy to be up to do it.
MR. ONISHI: Well keep up the great work, you know, with you and Jean over
there. Thank you. And whatever the council can help support you guys, just let
us know. Thank you.
MS. RANZ: Appreciated, thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Mr. Onishi. Any other discussion, Council
Members? Just real briefly, you know, I’m so thankful to see this program move
forward. I remember it coming about a while ago, and being part of some of this
discussion a little bit. Because I understand directly how much an AED can
impact somebody in a situation, such as cardiac arrest. If it wasn’t for an AED
being close by, you know, in somebody’s car, you know, my father probably
wouldn’t be here today as we speak. So an AED is really, really, really—do help
those in need. I’m directly impacted myself, I know it directly impacts a lot of
people having that AED close by when needed. I’m so glad to see this program
go forward. Please let us know however we can help out with anything, as you
know, how do we get information out, whatever. I’ll definitely be there to
support you guys with whatever you guys need to do to move this thing forward.
Thank you so much for working hard on bringing everybody together, and having
that one goal. Again, mahalo, for all that you guys do. Council Members all in
favor of the motion to approve 543-16 say “aye.”
Vote on Res. 543-16: The motion to adopt Res. 543-16 was carried by the following
(Adopted) voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Chung, David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha – 9.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. On to the next Resolution 544-16.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Res. 544-16: AUTHORIZES THE PAYMENT OF FUNDS OF A LATER FISCAL YEAR
AND OF MORE THAN ONE FISCAL YEAR FOR A MULTI-YEAR
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT FOR AUTOMATIC ELECTRONIC
DEFIBRILLATORS (AEDs) FOR THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY POLICE
DEPARTMENT
Authorizes the Mayor to enter into a five-year maintenance agreement for
33 AEDs at a cost of approximately $150 each per year.
Reference: Comm. 914
Intr. by: Ms. Eoff
Waived: FC
Motion to Approve: Ms. Eoff moved to adopt Res. 544-19. Seconded by
Mr. Paleka.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Eoff.
MS. EOFF: I think we touched on this already, so I’m happy to see that you did
think ahead we have a maintenance agreement plan.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. Eoff. Council Members, any other
discussion? Hearing or seeing none, all in favor of the motion to approve say
“aye.”
Vote on Res. 544-16: The motion to adopt Res. 544-16 was carried by the following
(Adopted) voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Chung, David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha – 9.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. Thank you. Mr. Clerk, Resolution 545-16.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Res. 545-16: AUTHORIZES THE OFFICE OF THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN
AGREEMENT WITH THE HILO MEDICAL CENTER, PURSUANT TO
HAWAI‘I REVISED STATUTES SECTION 46-7, TO DONATE AN
AMBULANCE TO THIS STATE-RUN ORGANIZATION
Authorizes the donation of a decommissioned ambulance from the Fire
Department for non-emergency transportation of patients from the hospital to
locations of close proximity.
Reference: Comm. 915
Intr. by: Ms. Eoff
Waived: FC
Motion to Approve: Ms. Eoff moved to adopt Res. 545-16. Seconded by
Ms. David.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Eoff.
MS. EOFF: Thank you. I just wanted to thank Chief Uchida for staying here.
Maybe just quickly, I mean we’re all going to support this I’m sure. But maybe
just really quickly since you’re here, you can add a few comments.
MR. UCHIDA: Again, it’s partnership with Hilo Medical Center, and it’s a
give-back for them. They reached out to us, to ask if we had any old ambulances
that we were planning on decommissioning. Just so happened we did. Their
status with their apparatus is a 1988 Dodge, and basically the battery box fell out.
That was the last thing. So they’ve been struggling with moving patients back
and forth to different facilities, so we had one. We had a decommissioned
ambulance since 1996. A Ford that we were planning to move out of service, so it
was a perfect partnership and that’s it.
MS. EOFF: Kind of reciprocal situation.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. Eoff. Mr. Ilagan.
MR. ILAGAN: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I wanted to ask more out of curiosity,
what are they going to use it for?
MR. UCHIDA: I wish Hilo Medical Center was here to answer that. But I
believe they move patients back and forth, like to Hale Anuenue right across the
street. I’m not sure if to the Life Care Centers or not, but it’s moving people back
and forth, some of their clients.
MR. ILAGAN: Okay.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you. Any other discussion, Council Members?
Hearing or seeing none, all in favor of the motion to approve say “aye.”
Vote on Res. 545-16: The motion to adopt Res. 545-16 was carried by the following
(Adopted) voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Chung, David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha – 9.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. Mr. Clerk, can we do Resolution 542-16?
Res. 542-16: AUTHORIZES THE OFFICE OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT TO AWARD FUNDS TO HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
WEST HAWAI‘I, INC.
Grant funds in the amount of $336,000 would be used to supplement the
construction of four homes for low income families at the Kamakoa Nui
Affordable Workforce Housing Project in Waikoloa.
Reference: Comm. 912
Intr. by: Ms. Eoff
Waived: FC
Motion to Approve: Ms. Eoff moved to adopt Res. 542-16. Seconded by
Ms. Wille.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Eoff, go right ahead.
MS. EOFF: Thank you. This is in Ms. Wille’s district, so I’m going to yield to
her at this time.
CHR. KANUHA: Sorry. Ms. Wille.
MS. WILLE: Thank you very much. Susan if you want to come forward in case
there’s any questions. Basically these were projects that we were moving forward
with mostly federal funds. Then problems came up about that in terms of whether
the checkoffs on the ordinances and issues like that, so we’re sort of pending. We
need to finish the buildings, and so we worked out a way to do the funding. And
that’s what we’re doing, so I urge your approval. This is if there are any
questions, but we’re just trying to make things happen and doing the best we can
on the funding we have and addressing where there were issues that came up.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. Wille. Council Members, any discussion?
We have director here, if there’s any questions. Mr. Paleka.
MR. PALEKA: Nope. I met with the Housing Director. She explained the
situation. I have to say disappointing with our federal level, in terms of not being
able to assist. Well it goes deeper than that, but really it comes down to liability
basically. And that’s why the county is being held with the bag this time. So I
think it’s important we let our public know that we are covering things, basically
what the Federal Government usually covers. But unfortunately because of
procedural issues and liability concerns, we’re left holding the entire bag. I’m all
good for that, if it’s for our homeless it’s a great project. Habitat for Humanity
has done so much good work for us, I think it’s important for people to know.
More or less what the circumstances were, Mr. Chair. I just wanted express. But
again, thank you so much, Susan, for coming. You know, I support that.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Mr. Paleka. Any other discussion? Hearing or
seeing none, all in favor of the motion to approve Resolution 542-16 say “aye.”
Vote on Res. 542-16: The motion to adopt Res. 542-16 was carried by the following
(Adopted) voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Chung, David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha – 9.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. Thank you. On to the top of the agenda
Mr. Clerk, Resolution 541-16.
Return to Order The Chair directed the Council to return to the order of business.
of Business:
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Res. 541-16: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A
DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A
DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF PARKS
AND RECREATION TO SEND STAFF TO THE 2016 HAWAI‘I
RECREATION AND PARKS SOCIETY CONFERENCE
Transfers $5,000 from the Clerk-Council Services – Contingency Relief account
(Council District 1); and credits to the Parks and Recreation, Recreation Division
Other Current Expenses account ($3,000) and Subscription and Membership
account ($2,000).
Reference: Comm. 910
Intr. by: Ms. Poindexter
Motion to Approve: Ms. Poindexter moved to adopt Res. 541-16. Seconded by
Mr. Paleka.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Poindexter.
MS. POINDEXTER: I think it’s pretty self-explanatory, if you have any
questions I can answer it. Just asking for your support. Aloha.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. Poindexter. Any other discussion? Hearing
or seeing none, all in favor of the motion to approve say “aye.”
Vote on Res. 541-16: The motion to adopt Res. 541-16 was carried by the following
(Adopted) voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Chung, David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha – 9.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. Mr. Clerk, Resolution 546-16.
Page 40
Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Res. 546-16: AUTHORIZES THE PAYMENT OF FUNDS OF A LATER FISCAL YEAR
AND OF MORE THAN ONE FISCAL YEAR FOR A MULTI-YEAR LEASE
FOR ONE MULTI-FUNCTION COPY MACHINE FOR THE DEPARTMENT
OF PARKS AND RECREATION
Authorizes the Mayor to enter into a five-year lease agreement at a monthly cost
of approximately $150.49.
Reference: Comm. 916
Intr. by: Ms. Eoff
Waived: FC
Motion to Approve: Ms. Eoff moved to adopt Res. 546-16. Seconded by
Ms. David.
CHR. KANUHA: Any discussion? Mr. Ilagan.
MR. ILAGAN: Mr. Chairman, these copy machines again. Just wanted to point
that out.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you. Has to be done by resolution. Any other
discussion? Hearing or seeing none, all in favor of the motion to approve say
“aye.”
Vote on Res. 546-16: The motion to adopt Res. 546-16 was carried by the following
(Adopted) voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Chung, David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha – 9.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. Resolution 547-16.
Res. 547-16: AUTHORIZES THE PAYMENT OF FUNDS OF A LATER FISCAL YEAR
AND OF MORE THAN ONE FISCAL YEAR FOR A MULTI-YEAR LEASE
FOR FOUR COPY MACHINES FOR THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY POLICE
DEPARTMENT
Authorizes the Mayor to enter into a five-year lease agreement at a total
monthly cost of approximately $1,640.
Reference: Comm. 917
Intr. by: Ms. Eoff
Waived: FC
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Vote on Res. 547-16: Ms. Eoff moved to adopt Res. 547-16. Seconded by
(Adopted) Ms. David and carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Chung, David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha – 9.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. Mr. Clerk, Resolution 550-16.
Res. 550-16: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A
DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A
DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO THE
HAWAIʻI LGBT LEGACY FOUNDATION FOR A REIMBURSEMENT OF
EXPENSES RELATED TO THE FOURTH ANNUAL LGBT PRIDE PARADE
AND FESTIVAL
Transfers $2,500 from the Clerk-Council Services – Contingency Relief account
(Council District 4); and credits to the Parks and Recreation, Administration
Other Current Expenses account.
Reference: Comm. 920
Intr. by: Mr. Ilagan
Motion to Approve: Mr. Ilagan moved to adopt Res. 550-16. Seconded by
Mr. Paleka.
CHR. KANUHA: Go right ahead, Mr. Ilagan.
MR. ILAGAN: Council Members, I ask for your support, for supporting the
Pride Parade. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you. Any other discussion? Hearing or seeing none, all
in favor of the motion to approve say “aye.”
Vote on Res. 550-16: The motion to adopt Res. 550-16 was carried by the
(Adopted) following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Chung, David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha – 9.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. Mr. Clerk, Order of the Day, Second or Final
Reading, Bill 208.
BILL FOR The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Bills for
ORDINANCES Ordinances (First Reading).
(FIRST READING):
(There were none.)
ORDER OF The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Order of
THE DAY the Day (Second and Final Reading).
(SECOND OR
FINAL READING):
Bill 208: AMENDS SECTION 25-8-2 (NORTH AND SOUTH KONA ZONE MAP)
ARTICLE 8, CHAPTER 25 (ZONING CODE) OF THE HAWAI‘I COUNTY
CODE 1983 (2005 EDITION), BY CHANGING THE DISTRICT
CLASSIFICATION FROM AGRICULTURAL – FIVE ACRES (A-5a) TO
ND
FAMILY AGRICULTURAL – TWO ACRES (FA-2a) AT KŪKI‘O 2 &
MANINI‘ŌWALI, NORTH KONA, HAWAI‘I, COVERED BY TAX MAP
KEY: 7-2-004:027 (Applicants: Carl and Christine Carlson) (Area: 5 acres)
The Leeward Planning Commission forwards its favorable recommendation for
this change of zone, which would allow the applicants to subdivide the property
into two parcels. The applicants state they would retain a three-acre lot and
convey the remaining two-acre lot to their daughter.
Reference: Comm. 887
Intr. by: Mr. Ilagan (B/R)
First Reading: June 15, 2016
Motion to Approve: Mr. Ilagan moved to pass Bill 208 on second and final
reading. Seconded by Ms. Eoff.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Eoff.
MS. EOFF: I’m still in support of this, we’ve discussed it in previous couple of
meetings. Thank you.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. Eoff. Any other discussion? Hearing or
seeing none, all in favor of the motion to approve say “aye.”
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Vote on Bill 208: The motion to pass Bill 208 on second and final reading
(Adopted) was carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Chung, David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha – 9.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. Next item.
Bill 209: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 03-115, WHICH RECLASSFIED LANDS FROM
MULTIPLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL – 1,000 SQUARE FEET (RM-1) TO
VILLAGE COMMERCIAL – 7,500 SQUARE FEET (CV-7.5) AT
HONUAULA, NORTH KONA, HAWAI‘I, COVERED BY TAX MAP KEY: 7-
5-022:040 (Applicant: Tante Urban) (Area: 7,500 square feet)
The Leeward Planning Commission forwards its favorable recommendation for
this five-year time extension to Condition C, time to complete construction. The
new applicant states he intends to construct a six-unit, multiple-family apartment
building with a commercial kitchen on the ground floor.
Reference: Comm. 888
Intr. by: Mr. Ilagan (B/R)
First Reading: June 15, 2016
Vote on Bill 209: Mr. Ilagan moved to pass Bill 209 on second and final reading.
(Adopted) Seconded by Mr. Paleka and carried by the following
voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members Chung, David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha – 9.
Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. Next item.
Page 44
Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
Bill 210: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 889 (FORMERLY KAMUELA ZONE MAP,
CURRENTLY LALAMILO PUʻUKAPU ZONE MAP), WHICH
RECLASSIFIED LANDS FROM AGRICULTURAL – FORTY ACRES (A-40a)
TO AGRICULTURAL – FIVE ACRES (A-5a) AT PU‘UKAP HOMESTEADS,
ND
2 SERIES, SOUTH KOHALA, HAWAI‘I, COVERED BY TAX MAP KEYS:
6-4-017:023, 064-067, AND 078 (FORMERLY 6-4-017:023)
(Planning Director Initiated)
The Leeward Planning Commission forwards its favorable recommendation for
this amendment to the Zoning Code, which would delete Conditions C and H
removing limiting agricultural use restrictions, and add a new condition to allow
the full range of agricultural land uses.
Reference: Comm. 889
Intr. by: Mr. Ilagan (B/R)
First Reading: June 15, 2016
Motion to Approve: Mr. Ilagan moved to pass Bill 210 on second and final
reading. Seconded by Mr. Paleka.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Wille.
MS. WILLE: Yeah, and I would like Mr. Arai to come forward. I voted in favor
of this with reservations. I did have some serious questions to ask Mr. Arai, a few
questions that when it came forward if he could address them. I just wanted to
quickly point those out, I think they were highlighted by the testimony this
morning, by Diane Kanealii. Sort of a major concern. This is Ag land. It would
be under important Ag land designation. It’s also in a zone, the area in Waimea
that has some of the only A-B classified soils in the county, highest yield.
One question for me in particular going beyond that was, what is the status under
terms of the South Kohala CDP (Community Development Plan)? What we have
here currently, the land is very restricted to intensive crops, ranching. Just
basically what you would think of, common sense, what is agriculture? Just like
that. In terms of what this change would do is, it would make it open up to
whatever is on the state—whatever is listed under, allowed in Ag land by the
state, which could be anything from solid waste transfer stations, geothermal
development—anyway, big processing energy systems. Anyway, a lot.
My concern here, if you take it from the South Kohala CDP, is this area
designated in terms of our plan for extensive and intensive farming and ranching,
and should not be rezoned for urban or suburban type uses. Basically it remains
agriculture, but it may not be considered quite as limited as to what’s in here.
We’re basically opening it up to anything that’s on the state list. The
recommendation here says that the request is consistent with the CDP, and that
the property would continue to be used for agriculture as defined by the state and
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
county law. I don’t really agree with the way that’s represented there. Just sort of
looking at it when we say how important Ag land is, we’re taking parcels that are
like 40 acre parcels and splitting them up into five acres, it could then become,
really be moved more and more. You know, further divided. Once you’re at five
why not then we have another, more kids, families, another four.
So it’s really just sort of looking at this on a big picture, let me say I don’t have
something particular about this particular parcel. But again, everything is
precedent and when you start looking at what we’re doing, let me say we do have
in this area, there are places, say—there’s one place that is allowed for like farm
dwellings. And they’ve got a special permit for an automobile or towing or
equipment kind of thing that isn’t Ag that went through as a special permit.
Mr. Arai, I sort of asked you those questions. And the second thing is, you know,
we as a county are responsible to do something in terms of important Ag land.
We have not done it. I have a little trouble moving ahead and eliminating lands
that to me are like the highest level of important Ag land. And I know responses
in the past have been that we haven’t had enough money, whether this was a state
mandate to do the important Ag land stuff. But it came without money, but we’re
the one county I think that has not ponied up. So those are my concerns, but I
don’t know where you are, Mr. Arai. I respect what you have to say, and I do
have people in my district that are concerned about this. One person testified.
Just overall where are we going, and why wouldn’t we keep chopping all of these
lots up. The important Ag land, the South Kohala CDP how should we handle
that?
(Note: At this time, Deputy Planning Director Darren Arai came forward
to address the members of the Council.)
MR. ARAI: Good afternoon, Darren Arai with the Hawaiʻi County Planning
Department. As far as the CDP is concerned, you know, I appreciate your
interpretation of it, and if it is to preserve important agricultural lands I can
reassure you that is something we’re also looking at. However as it pertains to
this particular request, while we are eliminating an existing restriction within the
ordinance in order to line it up with what is now permitted under the state law, if
you go out there right now, my recollection is you’re not going to see any
intensive agriculture in any of the lots within the subdivision. Even though you
may argue that the existing provision should promote that.
There is a mandatory Ag, but it basically says this is what you can do on the
lands. It doesn’t force an individual landowner to do it. As demonstrated now if
you were to drive out there, with the amendment and lining it up with state law it
will possibly provide greater opportunities for agriculture of many different types
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
verses the limited agriculture that was devised by the existing ordinance. So I
would argue that accepting the amendment and allowing it to pass through, would
be further promoting the use and preservation of important agriculture lands.
MS. WILLE: You say sort of what are we opening it up to that’s important here.
When you say there are other areas that if we basically moved it up to the CDP
level will still not be permitted.
MR. ARAI: Uses on some of the best of these is defined by the state land use law
205-4.5, right. That does identify all of those uses that the state feels is
appropriate on some of the best agriculture lands that we have. So those are some
of the uses that we also feel if state law defines it, then why shouldn’t that
opportunity that’s afforded anyone else throughout the state also be available to
residents in this subdivision, and the residents of this island.
MS. WILLE: I’m going to make one more comment, and then I’ll yield. I
certainly don’t agree that we should go along with what the state says, and I find a
lot of these things are where I find the most powerful lobbyists are and do a good
job getting it in. I certainly wouldn’t want a geothermal or a transfer station
located in that location. I appreciate what you said, and I think this is something,
whether we vote for it or against, I feel that we need to do more work in this area
long term and more definition.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you, Ms. Wille. Ms. Poindexter.
MS. POINDEXTER: You mentioned that right now there is no cultivation of
crops and stuff going on their currently. And that moving it to the five acre you
think that there would be more.
MR. ARAI: My understanding is there’s no intensive, appreciable intensive
agriculture uses.
MS. POINDEXTER: Okay. So moving it to five, the commission, you guys
believe that you’ll have more intensive? I mean, because who’s monitoring that
and who will hold them accountable? Because right now, I mean in some of the
discussions we’ve had listening to the testifier, you know, I’m tending to agree
with her. Because we had these discussions before that, you know, who’s holding
them accountable to Ag. Because you have a lot of these people who are paying
very cheap property taxes, and really not doing intensive Ag. So here we’re going
to limit the sizes of the lots, which the testifier states now. Really, what are we
doing? Are we allowing them now to take out saying that they have to meet the
farm dwelling kind of compliance, when now they can build these nice rich
homes and put a tangerine tree or something on there, whatever?
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
In discussions I’ve heard we cannot hold people accountable to do that, because
we don’t have enough inspectors, and things need to be fixed. I understand what
Council Member Wille is saying, we’re moving all in this direction before we
take care of correcting some of the things that need to be corrected when we’re
talking about accessing Ag properly, holding people accountable to what they’re
supposed to be doing. I’m going to rely on Council Member Wille, because this
is in her district. When she talks about the CDP, their testimony, and we’ve
always supported what—because she knows her people best. That is my concern
on how do we ensure that, like what you said, we could get more crops going, you
know, we could do more cultivation of crops, intensive, when it gets smaller. But
how to ensure that?
MR. ARAI: If I had all the answers, I probably wouldn’t be before you right
now. But I guess in the end is that, and I’m not even sure if this will answer all of
your questions, but in my mind, agriculture is not what it used to be. Not what it
used to be in the 1980’s, 50’s, and 60’s, it’s changed. It’s changed dynamically,
and I think the state law has changed as well to recognize the various type of uses.
Just a few years ago things like agriculture base, commercial operations,
agriculture tourism, was never in the mix, but that is all changing. I think by
providing greater opportunities rather than legislating only a certain class of use
on Ag land is not the right way. Because you can’t just simply legislate,
especially when you have owners with different interests and abilities.
MS. POINDEXTER: Thank you for that. Because I think some time ago, I
would always talk about I don’t support real large kind of farming operations. I
believe in the backyard small farming operations, and more working towards the
self-reliant. Like how we did it back in the day, when we lived in those small
communities. So if this is moving in that direction again, I’m going to rely on
Council Member Wille and knowing her community, where they stand with this,
so I can help support that. But you just made it a point saying that bigger stuff
doesn’t always work, when we talk about self-reliant, sustainability, and when we
talk about food. And that smaller portions can cultivate more crops, and smaller
portions because people have different needs or talents or whatever to manage
their crops. So again, I’m going to yield at this time, and rely on a lot of what
Council Member Wille is stating.
CHR. KANUHA: Council Members, any other discussion? Ms. Eoff.
MS. EOFF: I do have a question. So actually this bill doesn’t change the lot
sizes, right? It just changes the conditions that are associated with approval of the
second increment that expands it to include any uses that are allowable under state
law, rather than the restrictions that were put in this original ordinance.
MR. ARAI: That is correct. Just wanted to add, five has already occurred, it’s
been in place since the 80’s. So it is just to remove that restriction.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
MS. EOFF: Right. So I’d like to ask Ms. Wille a question, because I too want to
support her and the concerns raised. Because I see that she’s thinking way into
the future now, about what could possibly happen after we undo these conditions.
I’m just wondering if maybe we had more time to work on it, if you could do that
it would be some kind of preventative measure. So that the things that you’re
afraid could happen, would still be restricted but maybe not to go to the extent
that it was in the first place. Just as a solution.
MS. WILLE: Yeah, that was my—
CHR. KANUHA: Was that a question to Ms. Wille?
MS. EOFF: Yeah, it was.
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Wille, do you want to respond?
MS. WILLE: Yeah. That’s where I was going. I mean there’s what land is
zoned and there’s how it’s used. Because its zoned agriculture, doesn’t mean
everything on the state’s list we would call agriculture. I would not for example
call a geothermal plant an agriculture, okay. So when we’re opening it up we’re
not opening it up to necessarily wider Ag uses. We’re opening it up to whatever
has been added to the list of what’s permitted on Ag zoned land. I’ll tell you I’m
sort of in between whether we postpone it and try to restrict the items.
Right now this land is limited in terms of restrictions to what we would call
agriculture, including ranching. So it’s not just like intensive crops, including
ranching. But would then open it up to all of the 20-something on the state list of
whatever they’re going to allow you in an Ag zoned area. Or do we say, okay, we
don’t have our act completely together here. We approve this and in the future, I
would be inclined not to approve anything further that affects Ag land. Until we
address how to deal with important Ag land, as we were in theory supposed to
have done by now, and address how we look at this issue of agriculture. I think
it’s bigger than this one case. I know this is being initiated by—
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Wille, I think you answered Ms. Eoff’s question.
MS. WILLE: Okay.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you. Ms. Eoff
MS. EOFF: So you’re saying that if we in the future would address what this
county believes is appropriate use of Important Ag Lands, then you would want
that to apply to this application too. So what would we do right now though,
because this is in second reading. Yeah, I’m asking you again, because you
thought about this more than we have probably.
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Hawaiʻi County Council-45 July 7, 2016
CHR. KANUHA: Ms. Eoff, did you have a specific question about the—
MS. EOFF: Well I’m not sure where she wants to go, because—
CHR. KANUHA: Because Ms. Wille can state in her next round on what she
wants to do.
MS. EOFF: Okay, I can wait and listen to that. That’s true, okay. I’ll yield then.
CHR. KANUHA: Thank you. Council Members, still on first round. Okay,
second round. Ms. Wille.
MS. WILLE: Okay. I can move to postpone and meet with Mr. Arai, and see if
there’s something that we could do to at least addresses the issues that clearly I
would say would be outside of the South Kohala CDP. And sort of look at it from
the CDP angle and try to do that as quickly as possible, and that would be my
preference. Again I think that there’s—I’m not trying to hold anybody up, I think
that there are other uses on this land. I just don’t want things to be a precedence,
so I’m going to move to postpone on this, and try to follow up and keep it
somewhat simple, but not have it be where we’re saying it doesn’t matter that it’s
important Ag land, it doesn’t matter what the CDP defines.
Motion to Postpone: Ms. Wille moved to postpone Bill 210 to August 3, 2016.
Seconded by Ms. Eoff.
CHR. KANUHA: Council Members, any discussion? Just briefly, because this
was Planning Director initiated, I want to make sure. I mean I know okay with
the Council to postpone it. I know you might not say it’s all good, but I just want
to make sure that there’s no deadlines. Okay. Council Members any other
discussion on the postponement to August 3, council meeting? All in favor of the
motion to postpone say “aye.”
Vote on Motion to: The motion to postpone Bill 210 to August 3, 2016 was
to Postpone: carried by the following voice vote:
(Approved)
Ayes: Council Members David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha – 8.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Chung – 1.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: Motion passes. Mr. Chung is excused. We got everything
Mr. Clerk?
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Hawai`i County Council-45 July 7, 2016
MR. MAEDA: Yes, we did.
REPORTS: The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Reports.
(There were none.)
REFERRALS The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business,
FOR EXECUTIVE Referrals for Executive Session.
SESSION:
(There were none.)
OTHER The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Other
BUSINESS: Business.
(There was none.)
ANNOUNCE- The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business,
MENTS: Announcements.
(There were none.)
CHR. KANUHA: May I have a motion to adjourn?
ADJOURN- There being no other business, at 12:59 p.m., Mr. Onishi moved to adjourn
MENT: the meeting. Seconded by Ms. Eoff and carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Council Members David, Eoff, Ilagan,
Onishi, Paleka, Poindexter, Wille,
and Chair Kanuha— 8.
Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Chung— 1.
Excused: None.
CHR. KANUHA: We are adjourned.
Council Approval: MAR 2 8 2018
11°
t, '
C• t I TY CLERK
SM/rk
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