2020-02-24 Letter to Senator Karl Rhoads and Jarrett Keohokalole SB 2994, SD1 Relating to Highway Safety

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+tv •os„� Roy Takemoto t":". 11 Managing Director 464. Harry Kim • ; ;.I a9ayor Barbara J. Kossow Deputy Managing Director County of Hawai i Office of the Mayor 25 Aupuni Street,Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawaii 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 February 24, 2020 Kenekoa/Senator Karl Rhoads, Luna Ho'omalu/Chair Kenekoa/Senator Jarrett Keohokalole, Hope Luna Ho'omalu/Vice Chair Committee on Judiciary Dear Chair Rhoads, Vice Chair Keohokalole, and Committee Members: RE: SB 2994, SD1 Relating to Highway Safety Thank you for hearing SB 2994, SD1. I testify in support of this measure. As our populations grow, so does traffic, leading to more traffic congestion and greater driver frustration. Frustration, in turn, can lead to more carelessness or more risk taking, such as pushing the envelope on running red lights to save a few seconds on one's journey. There are jurisdictions on the mainland and around the world where traffic laws are ignored and driving is chaotic. Though some might think that Hawaii has already achieved that state, in truth we have managed to retain some respect for law, even traffic laws, and we need to do what we can to assure that our standards do not deteriorate, and perhaps even move up a notch or two. The preamble to SB 2994, SD1 is an excellent summary of our history with red- light enforcement, and why we should authorize the counties to try pilot programs. It may be necessary to prove to the public that such programs can be administered fairly and are in the best interest of the traveler—whether driver, bicyclist, or pedestrian. SB 2994, SD1 will provide that opportunity for those counties that wish to participate. I ask for your favorable action on SB 2994, SD1. Resp ctfully Submitted, 1 Harry Kim MAYOR County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.