HomeMy WebLinkAboutREP FC 144 2018/10/02 (2016-2018) REPORT OF THE
COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
DATE: October 2, 2018 Re: Comm. No. 1078/Res. No. 693-18
PLACE: Council Chambers
Hilo, Hawai`i
TIME: 9:30 a.m.
Council Chair and Members
Hawai`i County Council
Hilo, Hawai`i 96720
Your Committee on Finance, to which was referred Resolution No. 693-18, reports as follows:
Resolution No. 693-18, transmitted by Finance Director Deanna S. Sako, via Communication No. 1078
dated September 14, 2018, authorizes the Office of the Mayor to enter into an agreement with the
University of Hawai`i.
This resolution provides $7,994.80 from the Department of Research and Development to the University
of Hawai`i to fund its "Artificial Insemination as a Tool to Improve Livestock Genetics in Hawaii
County" project proposal. Funds would be used to conduct training with beef and swine producers on
artificial insemination techniques, record keeping, basic herd management, and preparation of
publication material.
Council Member Herbert "Tim" Richards, III commented that this resolution seems to enhance
agriculture and education in the community and asked for clarification on the broader context of what
the intentions are and what the expected measurables might be. Glenn Sako, Economic Development
Specialist for Research and Development explained that the University of Hawai`i has submitted
proposals to conduct research in different facets of the agriculture industry. Mr. Sako stated they are
looking to make use of natural resources and hopefully couple that with the branding of Hawaii to help
the industries. He stated the university would like to support the livestock industry, by improving the
genetics through artificial insemination, and which requires training. He noted that there is a lot of
interest in the livestock industry, especially in small animals such as hogs, goats, and sheep.
Mr. Richards asked whether this is for college students or if there is an extension outreach. Mr. Sako
responded that there is an extension component, and further added that whenever the university does its
research, it finds a product that will fit the industry or the public. The extension service will take over to
make information available and educate the public as to how it can be used and what is needed to make
the product successful.
Council Member Dru Mamo Kanuha asked whether the University of Hawai`i would still do these
programs without the grants. Mr. Sako replied that the university's material and supply budget is
limited since the bulk of their funds goes towards salaries, and compensation for their researchers and
agents. Mr. Sako stated they do seek other funding; but for these "smaller grants" which can have a
FC Report No. 144
FC-144 Page 2 October 2, 2018
short research or educational project that can be completed very quickly, the department usually come to
the County for assistance. Mr. Kanuha commented, and Mr. Sako agreed, that without this funding, the
smaller projects would then be cut. He said the only other way would be for a new researcher to come
on board and give a financial package to get a project started.
Your Committee on Finance is in accord with the purpose and intent of Resolution No. 693-18, and
recommends its adoption.
dmm
AYES NOES ABS EX Respectfully submitted,
CHUNG X
DAVID x COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
EOFF X
KANUHA X
Aga LOY X /, pip
O'HARA X
POINDEXTER x MAILE DA ID, CHAIR
RICHARDS X FC REPORT NO.: 144
RUGGLES X ADOPTED: OCT 1 7 2018