HomeMy WebLinkAboutREP FC 146 2018/10/02 (2016-2018) REPORT OF THE
COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
DATE: October 2, 2018 Re: Comm. No. 1080/Res. No. 695-18
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. 695-18, reports as follows:
Resolution No. 695-18, transmitted by Finance Director Deanna S. Sako, via Communication No. 1080
dated September 14, 2018, authorizes the Office of the Mayor to enter into an agreement with the
University of Hawai`i.
This resolution provides $7,000 from the Department of Research and Development to the University of
Hawaii to fund its "Applied Research for Grafting Macadamia, Cacao, and Avocado"project proposal.
Funds would be used to conduct training on four grafting techniques with macadamia nut, avocado, and
cacao producers.
Council Member Herbert "Tim" Richards, III commented this resolution looks to be enhancing
agriculture and education in the community. Mr. Richards asked for clarification on the broader context
of what the intentions are and what the expected measurable might be. Glenn Sako, Economic
Development Specialist for Research and Development explained that the University of Hawaii has
submitted proposals to conduct research in different facets of the agriculture industry. Mr. Sako stated
they are looking to reduce the introduction of the invasive species and make use of natural resources and
hopefully couple that with the branding of Hawaii and native Hawaiian plants to help the industries.
Mr. Sako explained that with grafting in the macadamia, cacao, and avocado industries, there is a
shortage of plants for the replacement of trees that had to be removed due to disease or weather. It is to
help the growers try four different techniques and see which ones would work best for them, therefore
allowing the macadamia growers to supply their own nursery or farms with replacement plants. In the
case of cacao and avocado, it would be for the expansion of their fields.
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 whenever the university does 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.
FC Report No. 146
FC-146 Page 2 October 2, 2018
Your Committee on Finance is in accord with the purpose and intent of Resolution No. 695-18, and
recommends its adoption.
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AYES NOES ABS EX Respectfully submitted,
CHUNG X
DAVID x COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
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KANUHA X
LEE LOA X dilO1�-. N
O'HARA X _ Cr .OA
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POINDEXTER x MAILE DAV 9, ' ' IR
RICHARDS X FC REPORT NO.: 146
RUGGLES X ADOPTED: OCT 1 7 2018