HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-01-27 Letter to Mike Gabbard and Russell E. Ruderman SB 2623, Relating to Coffee Berry Borer (2) -+11 os N;• Roy Takemoto
J.• !F7�• Managing Director
Harry Kim ^_
Manor • • ±s+rir
.•:•44 Barbara Barbara J. Kossow
iMi M � r�`
>r Op'M1 Deputy Managing Director
County of Hawaii
Office of the Mayor
25 Aupuni Street,Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawai'i 96720 • (808)961-8211 • Fax(808)961-6553
KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy., Bldg C • Kailua-Kona, Hawai'i 96740
(808)323-4444 • Fax(808)323-4440
January 27, 2020
Senator Mike Gabbard, Chair
Senator Russell E. Ruderman, Vice Chair
Committee on Agriculture and Environment
Dear Chair Gabbard, Vice Chair Ruderman, and Committee Members:
RE: SB 2623, Relating to Coffee Berry Borer
Thank you for this opportunity to testify in support of SB 2623.
As you know, coffee is a major industry for Hawaii Island, and I am informed that
the coffee berry borer continues to be a substantial threat to coffee's economic survival.
Any assistance the State can offer, including the pesticide subsidy that helps farmers
manage the cost of controlling this terrible pest, is much appreciated.
I hope you will extend the pesticide subsidy program, extend the program
manager position, and make appropriations for the program and position, all as set forth
in SB 2623.
Respectfully Submitted,
I \
Harry im
MAYOR
County of klawai-i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.