HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-08-26 EMC Meeting Agenda and Director's Informational Report
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
COUNTY OF HAWAIʻI
MEETING AGENDA
Based on the Mayor’s Proclamation regarding COVID-19, this meeting will be online. This is to
prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to maintain social distancing. The public may attend either
online or by telephone.
DATE: August 26, 2020
TIME: 9:00 a.m.
PLACE: Zoom: bit.ly/HawaiiEMC
Ph: (669) 900-6833
Meeting ID: 335 609 0553 (no password needed)
(Note: Zoom needs to be installed to use the link; otherwise, the
Meeting ID can be entered for access to the meeting.)
STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: Anyone wishing to provide written testimony on an agenda
item may do so by submitting it in writing or by fax. To ensure timely delivery to commissioners
prior to the meeting, written testimony must be submitted before 12:00 noon on the business
day prior to the meeting by (1) email to mary.fujio@hawaiicounty.gov or (2) facsimile to 961-
8086. When submitting written testimony, please specify what agenda item it is being
submitted for. All written testimony will be part of the permanent record.
Testimony in real time will be permitted to the extent possible.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JULY 22, 2020
3. STATEMENT FROM THE CHAIR
4. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ITEMS ON THE AGENDA
5. NEW BUSINESS
a. Presentation by Steve Holmes on energy savings performance contracts.
b. Presentation by Riley Saito on the use of ESPCs by Hawaiʻi County.
6. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Status of the commission’s letter to the County Council in support of the draft
2019 Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan Update.
b. Status of the commission’s letter to Councilmember Richards and Director
Kucharski regarding inviting private entities to look into creating recycled/
reclaimed water.
c. Continued discussion on public-private partnerships, such as energy savings
performance contracts (“ESPCs”) and “Statement of Objectives” Requests for
Proposals.
7. REPORTS/CORRESPONDENCE
Director’s Informational Report. (Note: the report is posted online with the agenda on
both the County Calendar and County of Hawaiʻi website under Our County, Boards and
Commissions, Environmental Management Commission, Agendas. The director will
provide informational updates on the following:
a. Status of the Kealakehe Wastewater Treatment Plant R-1 Upgrade Project.
b. Presentation by the department’s recycling coordinator, George Hayducsko, on
the county’s various recycling programs (requested by Commissioner McIntosh).
c. Director’s presentation on the department’s Derelict and Abandoned Vehicle
Program (requested by Commissioner McIntosh).
d. Report on the City and County of Honolulu’s and Maui County’s ESPCs (requested
by Commissioner Gaffney).
e. Information on the department’s spill response management plan (requested by
Commissioner Gaffney).
f. Report on chloride levels at individual wells and at point of return to Kealakehe
WWTP collection system (requested by Commissioner Fulton).
g. Update on the contract for a tracer/dye study on the Kealakehe WWTP sump
(requested by Commissioner Gaffney).
h. Information on how the Planning Department and the Department of
Environmental Management interface regarding new developments, such as the
upcoming 450-unit workforce housing project in West Hawaiʻi (requested by
Commissioner Gaffney).
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8. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Commissioners can suggest items they would like placed on the next agenda.
9. ANNOUNCEMENTS
The next meeting is scheduled for September 23, 2020, at a location to be determined
or online. Please contact the Department of Environmental Management or monitor
the website for updates.
10. ADJOURNMENT
The regular meeting place is accessible to persons with disabilities. To request an auxiliary aid or
language translation, please call 961-8083 five days prior to the meeting date. Comments may
be sent to the Department of Environmental Management, 345 Kekūanāoʻa Street, Suite 41, Hilo,
Hawaiʻi 96720, or emailed to cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov.
Notice to lobbyists: If you are a lobbyist, you must register with the Hawaiʻi County Clerk within five days of becoming
a lobbyist. \[Article 15, Section 2-91.3(b), Hawaiʻi County Code.\] A lobbyist means “any individual engaged for pay or
other consideration who spends more than five hours in any month or $275 in any six-month period for the purpose
of attempting to influence legislative or administrative action by communicating or urging others to communicate with
public officials.” \[Article 15, Section 2-91.3(a)(6), Hawaiʻi County Code.\] Registra?on forms and expenditure report
documents are available at the Office of the County Clerk-Council, 25 Aupuni Street, Hilo, Hawaiʻi 96720.
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DIRECTOR’S INFORMATIONAL REPORT
TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
AUGUST 26, 2020
CURRENT LEGISLATION
None.
DIRECTOR’S INFORMATIONAL UPDATES
1. Status of the Kealakehe Wastewater Treatment Plant R-1 Upgrade Project.
2. Presentation by the DEM’s recycling coordinator, George Hayducsko, on the county’s various
recycling programs (requested by Commissioner McIntosh).
3. Director’s presentation on DEM’s Derelict and Abandoned Vehicle Program (requested by
Commissioner McIntosh).
4. Report on the City and County of Honolulu’s and Maui County’s ESPCs (requested by
Commissioner Gaffney).
5. Report on DEM’s spill response management plan (requested by Commissioner Gaffney).
6. Report on chloride levels at individual wells and at point of return to Kealakehe WWTP
collection system (requested by Commissioner Fulton).
7. Update on the contract for a tracer/dye study on the Kealakehe WWTP sump (requested by
Commissioner Gaffney).
8. Information on how the Planning Department and the Department of Environmental
Management interface regarding new developments, such as the upcoming 450-unit workforce
housing project in West Hawaiʻi (requested by Commissioner Gaffney).
SOLID WASTE DIVISION PROJECTS AND UPDATES
1. OPERATIONS
• Greenwaste collection was reinstated at the Pāhoa, Waimea, Kealakehe and Keʻei
Transfer Stations. These sites collect greenwaste on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and
Sundays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Scrap metal and white goods collection was reinstated at the Pāhoa, Kealakehe,
Waimea, Hilo and Waiōhinu Transfer Stations, Moʻnday through Saturday from 8:00
a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• SWD has continued the prohibition on commercial refuse going to the East Hawaiʻi
Sort Station.
2. ADMINISTRATION
Interviews are being held for EO-III positions at various baseyards. SWD is also
conducting interviews for an Abandoned Vehicle Coordinator. An offer was made for
the Project Coordinator position.
3. SOLID WASTE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
• Work is wrapping up for the closure of the South Hilo Sanitary Landfill.
• Design work will begin for the second phase of the Hawaiian Ocean View Estates
Project.
• The environmental assessment for the closure of the South Hilo scrap metal site is
continuing.
4. RECYCLING SECTION
A. INTEGRATED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN UPDATE:
• The 2019 update of the County of Hawaiʻi Integrated Solid Waste Management
Plan (ISWMP) is being prepared in compliance with Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes
(HRS) Chapter 342G, which requires counties in the state to update and revise
their solid waste management plans every 10 years. The last update to the
County of Hawai‘i’s ISWMP was completed in 2009.
• The draft update to the ISWMP includes an evaluation of local needs and
conditions to determine the most effective combined strategy for managing solid
waste while protecting human health and the environment. The draft plan
outlines the components of an effective solid waste management strategy and
priorities recommendations, while providing a framework for implementation.
• As required by HRS Chapter 342G, Mayor Kim appointed members to the Solid
Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC). The county’s SWAC is comprised of seven
members and had been meeting monthly. Input from SWAC members during
the ISWMP update process was crucial to ensure that the completed plan
effectively identified and addressed the County of Hawai‘i’s unique solid waste
challenges.
• The SWAC had their first meeting in March 2018. The June and July meetings
were dedicated to helping the SWAC learn more about the county’s solid waste
and landfill diversion programs, and one of the tools used was to show the SWAC
many of the program’s facilities. During the SWAC meetings from August 2018
to November 2018, the SWAC reviewed and utilized the 2009 plan
recommendations and options in developing their own recommendations and
options.
• A draft plan was submitted to the SWAC during December 2018. The SWAC agreed to
proceed by submitting their individual comments to the plan in January 2019, followed
by group discussions of individual chapters during monthly SWAC meetings. The SWAC
Draft Plan review and consensus of proposed revisions spanned approximately 170
days. At the end of each meeting, all SWAC members present motioned to approve all
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edits and changes as discussed, and SWAC members were informed that their
participation in these meetings was part of the required 120-day comment period.
• The draft plan was submitted to the Department of Health on 08/21/19 for its
90-day review.
• Two ISWMP informational meeting were held during December 2019, and two
public hearings were held during January 2020.
• The public comment period was open for 60 days, from 12/06/19 through
02/04/20.
• SWD staff reviewed the comments and testimony and prepared responses for
the SWAC to review.
• The SWAC met on 02/26/20 to review and discuss the DOH comments and the
public comments and testimony, and approved changes to the draft ISWMP.
• The following are the next steps for the implementation of the ISWMP:
◦ Staff and Parametrix are making the changes to the ISWMP as directed by the
SWAC.
◦ The draft ISWMP will be submitted to the County Council for adoption.
◦ The adopted ISWMP plan will be submitted to the DOH for approval.
◦ Appropriate components of the ISWMP should be incorporated into the
budget and into the operation of the relevant programs.
B. TRANSFER STATION RECYCLABLES (“TWO-BIN”) COLLECTION AND RECYCLING:
• The current contract will end on 09/30/20; however, major changes occurred. A
downsized acceptable list of recyclables was implemented on 10/16/19 after
discussions on deteriorating world recycling market conditions. Two-Bin
acceptable materials are now clean corrugated cardboard and brown Kraft paper
bags in one bin, and clean non-HI-5 glass containers (no caps, covers or lids) in a
separate glass bin. Clean metal cans can be placed in the scrap metal bin at 13
of the recycling and transfer stations (scrap metal collection at the recycling and
transfer stations has been temporally suspended at 8 out of the 13 sites).
Overseas markets for recyclables are shrinking, and the value has
correspondingly dropped. If further market changes occur, program
modifications may be implemented.
• On 05/01/20, SWD implemented new hours of operation for the Two-Bin
Recycling Program (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.).
• On 06/01/20, SWD implemented a new non-HI-5 glass collection system at
Volcano Recycling and Transfer Station in response to ongoing vandalism at this
site.
• New procurement for the Two-Bin program is ongoing.
• The county is evaluating potential cost-effective environmentally responsible
alternatives to divert material that is no longer acceptable.
• A multimedia recycling education and outreach campaign that educated the
public on the changes was conducted. It included flyers and brochures along
with radio, TV, movie theater, and newspaper ads to educate the public on what
is and is not currently recyclable, and discourage contamination. New bin
signage was developed by SWD and was produced and installed by the
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contractor. SWD is enforcing the ban on illegal commercial usage of self-haul
resident-only recycling bins at recycling and transfer stations. SWD is working
with the vendor to repair and maintain ramps. Periodic multimedia education is
planned to remind customers of proper recycling.
• Commercial generators/collectors should work directly with recycling companies
to manage recyclables, as they are prohibited from the recycling and transfer
stations.
C. DO-IT-YOURSELF (DIY) USED MOTOR OIL RECYCLING:
• Contract ends 11/30/20. Specifications are being reviewed and will be rebid.
• IFB 3903 resulted in contract award to Unitek Solvent Services, Inc.
• A list of island-wide year-round collection locations (six) is on our website at
http://www.Hawaiizerowaste.org/recycle/motor-oil. Residents can also recycle
DIY used motor oil at all county Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events.
Used motor oil (UMO) is not accepted at the recycling and transfer stations or at
the West Hawai‘i Sanitary Landfill. The DOH ended funding of the program in
FY2015, and the county has been funding the program 100% since then.
D. REUSE CENTERS:
• Supplemental Agreement No. 2 was issued on 03/09/20 for the period of
05/01/20 through 04/30/21.
• RFP 3693 resulted in contract award to Transfer Station Thrift Store LLC for all
seven locations.
• The county operates seven Reuse Centers at recycling and transfer stations
located in Hilo, Kea‘au, Pāhoa, Kealakehe, Keauhou, Waimea, and Wai‘ōhinu.
E. ELECTRONICS RECYCLING:
• The county’s electronic recycling program has been temporarily suspended from
the end of March through 07/31/20 due to COVID-19 and the delayed DOH
funding contract for FY21.
• The IFB 3514 contract with Mr. K’s R&R expires 04/17/21.
• When the Electronic Recycling Program resumes, residents will be allowed no-
charge household electronics recycling on select Saturdays at Mr. K’s R&R.
Businesses, non-profits, schools, and others will be offered recycling for a fee on
select Saturdays at Mr. K’s. An acceptable list and more information is at
http://hawaiizerowaste.org/recycle/e-waste. Mr. K’s has temporarily suspended
electronics recycling collection pending DOH funding contract for FY21.
• The county has temporarily suspended free monthly electronic recycling
collections in Hilo, Kona, Waimea and Wai‘ōhinu for residential electronics only.
Due to reduced DOH funding, only electronics recycling at Kealakehe RTS is
planned to resume in August. Details of the county collections and any changes
to private collections will be posted on our website at
http://hawaiizerowaste.org/recycle/e-waste.
• Currently, no manufacturer offers convenient on-island take-back of electronics.
Manufacturers only offer this convenience on O‘ahu to comply with the
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Electronic Waste and Television Recycling & Recovery Act mandatory take-back
provisions. A stronger state EPR law requiring convenient on-island
manufacturer sponsored take-back should be considered.
• Although DOH awarded the county grant funds for FY21, this funding is
insufficient to completely fund the program. There is no county funding
allocated in the budget; the lack of funding forced SWD to suspend the program
from the end of March through the end of the fiscal year.
• SWD’s Recycling Section will be redesigning the program to utilize only the
funding from the DOH and to no longer rely on General Funds to support it. The
redesign may require providing less services to the public.
F. HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE (HHW):
• The HHW collection event was successfully held on 08/01/20 in Hilo at Waiākea
High School, and the scheduled 08/08/20 event at Kealakehe High School was
postponed. More information is available at http://www.hazardouswaste.org
/recycle/household-hazardous-waste/.
• The IFB 3847 contract extension for HHW Collection Events expires 07/31/21.
• SWD has reduced the quantity and frequency of these events in light of reduced
county funding and issues coordinating these events at schools closed during
COVID-19.
G. GREENWASTE DIVERSION:
• The State Department of Agriculture finalized a permanent rule (HAR § 4-72-13)
prohibiting the interisland transport of ‘ōhi‘a plant material to prevent the
spread of Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death caused by Ceratocystis lukuohia or Ceratocystis
huliohia. They also recommend not transporting ‘ōhi‘a plant material from an
infected area to a non-infected area. DEM has recommended that people not
bring any ‘ōhi‘a plant material to our greenwaste collection sites and
recommends composting on-site.
• The county’s contract with Hawaiian Earth Recycling continues greenwaste
recycling. Enhanced mulch is available at the East Hawai‘i Organics Facility. The
mulch is treated for invasive species at EHOF since the modified State
Department of Health permit was issued. SWD relocated the greenwaste
recycling at the Waimea Recycling and Transfer Station to make it more
convenient for residents.
• New greenwaste drop-off guidelines for recycling and transfer stations were
implemented on 07/08/19. The new requirements address the number of loads,
load sizes, and greenwaste dimensions. For more information go to
http://www.hawaiizerowaste.org/recycle/greenwaste/.
• Starting in September 2020, residential customers can pick up mulch from the
East Hawaiʻi Organics Facility during the first Saturday of the month for free.
Each customer may obtain a maximum load of 3 cubic yards of mulch. Both
mechanical and self-loading is available. Customers may obtain only one load
per month while supplies last.
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• Starting in September 2020, commercial customers can pick up mulch from the
East Hawai‘i Organics Facility the second Wednesday of each month. HER will
charge commercial customers $5.00 per cubic yard for mulch at the East Hawai‘i
Organics Facility. There is no limit on the amount of mulch each customer may
obtain while supplies last. Commercial customers will be loaded mechanically
and not allowed to self-load. There is a 3 cubic yard minimum per load, and
payment must be made with a credit or debit card only.
• Effective 08/15/20, residential customers are eligible to obtain a maximum load
of 3 cubic yards of mulch from the West Hawai‘i Organics Facility. Customers
may obtain only one load per day while supplies last. Both mechanical and self-
loading is available.
• Effective 08/15/20, HER will charge commercial customers $3.00 per cubic yard
for mulch at the West Hawai‘i Organics Facility. There is no limit on the amount
of mulch each customer may obtain while supplies last. Payment must be made
with a credit or debit card only.
H. SCHOOL RECYCLING AND TOURS:
Requests for school and HCC/UHH tours of SWD facilities continue. Many were
scheduled in April to coincide with Earth Day, but these were all cancelled or
postponed due to the COVID-19 shutdown of non-essential services. These tours
are helpful in educating the next generation on recycling and sustainability. Several
tours have already taken place for various schools island wide. When schools
resume with new guidelines, these guidelines need to be implemented.
I. SPECIAL EVENT RECYCLING:
The Recycling Section continues to offer free rental HI-5 Event Recycling Bins for
fundraisers at community, sports or family events. Bins can be requested via an
online application form at http://www.hawaiizerowaste.org/event-planning. Please
submit applications for reservations well in advance of events to make sure bins are
available and to schedule pick-up/drop-off. The www.hawaiizerowaste.org website
also provides helpful resources for planning zero-waste events.
J. HI-5 CERTIFIED REDEMPTION CENTERS (CRCs)
• Business Services Hawaiʻi has agreed to their op?on year.
• Atlas Recycling has agreed to their option year for Keaʻau, Kealakehe, Keauhou,
and Waimea. Ocean View, Wai‘ōhinu, and Volcano will be going out for bid.
• The third quarter report has been completed and submitted to DOH.
• The Ocean View Certified Redemption Center officially opened 08/17/19. The
original location posed a traffic problem within the convenience center, so it was
relocated and there is now better traffic flow for all users.
• Changes in the two-bin system have not affected the HI-5 program.
• DOH hired a new supervisor, Michael Burke, for the HI-5 program.
• HI-5 Certified Redemption Centers located at the county Recycling and Transfer
Stations were reopened on Saturday, 05/23/20.
• Closeout Inspections have been completed for DOH for FY20.
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• Atlas Recycling was awarded the bid for Ocean View, Wai‘ōhinu, and Volcano.
K. RECYCLING EDUCATION AND OUTREACH:
• The Recycling Section’s website, www.hawaiizerowaste.org, is mobile-ready with
enhanced location features. The Recycling Section is researching upgrades to
the website to improve functionality and customer experience.
• Information is continually updated on the site. TV and radio ads are available at
www.hawaiizerowaste.org/info/media-library/ (HZW’s Media Library page).
• Staff continues to give presentations to community organizations. The biggest
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event was to be the 32 Earth Day Fair at UH-Hilo on 04/24/20, but it was
cancelled this year due to the Coronavirus Stay-At-Home Order.
• A new professional services procurement for Recycling Education Program
Development services was completed. Out of the Sea Media Arts will develop
education focused on two-bin contamination prevention, Reduce & Reuse
opportunities, Master Recycler Program, and update various promotional
materials.
• The previous contractor developed various education campaigns for UMO, the
polystyrene food service ware ban, and updated signage for the recycling and
transfer station recycle bins.
L. TIRE RECOVERY/RECYCLING EDUCTION AND OUTREACH:
• The contractor completed the fourth and final round of two-year follow-up of
tire retailer/wholesaler education and site inspections, educating tire
retailers/wholesalers of their responsibility to charge a disposal fee for tires sold
to, and to accept used tires from, customers when tires are being replaced.
• The contractor completed an initial and second round of consumer education
(media release, radio, newspaper, social media, posters/flyers, etc.) during
September through December 2017, encouraging consumers to leave used tires
at the retailer when purchasing new ones, as customers already paid the
mandatory fee for disposal. Final radio ads aired in June 2019.
• Signs reinforcing the message of returning tires to retailers/wholesalers were
posted at transfer stations to continue educating the public on proper tire
disposal.
• More information is at: http://www.hawaiizerowaste.org/recycle/tires/.
5. DERELICT AND ABANDONED VEHICLE (DAV) PROGRAM
Towing and vehicle disposal contracts are in place island-wide.
◦ Zone 1 Towing (N. and S. Hilo, Puna, and parts of Kaū): Ken’s Towingʻ (6-Month
extension requested).
◦ Zone 2 Towing (N. and S. Kona and parts of Kaū): ʻDiamond Auto Workz (6-Month
extension requested).
◦ Zone 3 Towing (N. and S. Kohala and Hāmākua): Diamond Auto Workz.
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◦ Hilo Vehicle Disposal: HMP dba Business Services Hawaiʻi - exercising 1 option
year extension. NTP issued on 11/27/19.
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• Kona vehicle disposal: Contract was awarded to HMP dba Business Services Hawaiʻi -
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exercising 1 option year extension. NTP issued on 02/19/20.
• Puʻuanahulu (W. Hawaiʻi) vehicle disposal: Contract was awarded to HMP dba
Business Services Hawaiʻi with NTP on 04/01/19.
• DAV coordinators continue to meet with the Hawaiʻi Police Department, Traffic
Services Section, and community police to explore ways of improving the tagging and
removal of abandoned vehicles.
• An abandoned vehicle auction is being planned for Fall or Winter 2020.
• Recruit classes and active fire fighters from the Hawaiʻi County Fire Department have
been coming to the Hilo Impound Lot for training on vehicle extrications.
• A year-round Vehicle Disposal Assistance Program is being offered to the public.
• The DAV Section continues to assist the Police Traffic Services Section with the
disposal of vehicles towed under Aliyah’s Law.
• Monthly towing numbers:
AV Towing 2020-21
E. Hawai‘i W. Hawai‘i
July 2020 115 89
Aug 2020
Sept 2020
Oct 2020
Nov 2020
Dec 2020
Jan 2021
Feb 2021
Mar 2021
Apr 2021
May 2021
June 2021
The total tow requests for July 2020 was 231; however, 27 vehicles were not on location
at the time of arrival.
6. SORT STATION UPDATE (FY 20-21)
Total Tons Taken Total Tons
Month/Year to Sort Station Diverted
Jul 2020 4,529.58 0.00
Aug 2020
Sept 2020
Oct 2020
Nov 2020
Dec 2020
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Jan 2021
Feb 2021
Mar 2021
Apr 2021
May 2021
Jun 2021
Totals 4,529.58 0.00
Per the Solid Waste Division, Total Tons Diverted has been zero for some time because
they have not been conducting active sorting. Much of this is due to the storage of tires
in the Sort Station collected during the dengue outbreak. Waste is received at the Sort
Station early in the day, then the remainder is sent to the landfill. Just recently is the
SWD at the point where they have enough space in the sort station to receive waste.
7. MONTHLY LANDFILL TONNAGES (FY 20-21)
Month/Year WHSL
Jul 2020 17,409.38
Aug 2020
Sept 2020
Oct 2020
Nov 2020
Dec 2020
Jan 2021
Feb 2021
Mar 2021
Apr 2021
May 2021
June 2021
Totals 17,409.38
8. MONTHLY TRANSFER STATION TONNAGES (FY 20-21)
Month/Year EHRSS WHSL
Jul 2020 3,800.06 8,778.34
Aug 2020
Sept 2020
Oct 2020
Nov 2020
Dec 2020
Jan 2021
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Feb 2021
Mar 2021
Apr 2021
May 2021
June 2021
Totals 3,800.06 8,778.34
The above table is to include data on the waste disposed in the landfill (not the
greenwaste or recycling data).
WASTEWATER DIVISION PROJECTS AND UPDATES
1. COMPLIANCE
A. TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL:
• 08/04/20: Kaloko WWTP UIC Permit Annual O&M Inspection. WWTP received
an unacceptable O&M rating. Basis of Design Review/Mass Balance Technical
Memorandum submitted to DOH.
• 07/31/20: RFI Letter submitted to DOH for the Hilo Facilities Pretreatment
Program that is in place for the Hilo WWTP. Response to the RFI is required by
07/31/20.
B. COLLECTION SYSTEM: No report.
2. OPERATIONS
A. TREATMENT/COLLECTION SYSTEMS AND PUMPING STATIONS/ FORCE MAINS:
Unscheduled repairs/upgrades/replacement of failing equipment due to age and
prolonged wear and tear continue where necessary throughout the wastewater
facilities.
B. SAFETY PRACTICES/TRAINING:
WWD administration continues to review and update the Emergency Response
Procedures and the Standard Safety Procedures and the weekly safety meeting
agendas.
3. ADMINISTRATION
A. VACANT POSITIONS IN OPERATIONS:
• Operator IV (Hilo – 1 position): interview scheduled for 8/19/20.
• Operator Supervisor III (Kona – 1 position): new hire to start: 8/17/20.
• Assistant WWTPO (Kona – 1 position): selected candidate. Pending reference
checks.
• Lead Electrician (Hilo): recruitment in progress.
• Trades Helper (Kona): pending DHR recruitment.
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• Sewer Maintenance Repairer (Kona): currently in recruitment.
• WW Plant Mechanic (Kona): assessment/interview to be scheduled week of
08/2420.
• Storekeeper (Kona): currently in recruitment.
B. VACANT POSITIONS AT RAILROAD OFFICE:
• Civil Engineer IV (2 positions): no candidates, recruitment ongoing.
• Civil Engineer V (1 position): no internal recruits; currently in recruitment.
• Projects Coordinator (1 position): interviews schedule for 08/14/20.
• Database Analyst (Hilo): selected candidate; pending reference checks.
• GIS Analyst I (Hilo): interviews scheduled 08/18/20 and 08/19/20.
C. NEW POSITIONS (Need to Create Position Descriptions)
• Environmental Engineer (Hilo): creating position.
• Program Manager (Reuse Spec I) (Kona): will begin recruit in FY21.
• WWTPO IV (Kona): packet submitted to Managing Director’s office.
• WWTPO IV (Kona): packet submitted to Managing Director’s office.
• Plant Electrician/Electronics Repairer (Kona): pending guidance from Corporation
Counsel regarding supervision with no supervisor in Kona.
4. WASTEWATER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
A. NĀ‘ĀLEHU LARGE CAPACITY CESSPOOL REPLACEMENT:
• Final land selection is still in progress. The state EA process required prior to
purchase of land for the treatment/disposal facility and project construction is
under way. Initial archaeological, flora and fauna checks and WWTP site design
are in progress. Revised AOC anticipated completion of the final EA is projected
no later than 07/23/21. EPA accepted a revised completion date of 08/27/23.
• The project is planned for funding with Clean Water State Revolving Funds
(CWSRF) monies.
• Current Schedule:
10/2020: Complete Archaeology and Biology Field Studies.
11/2020: Field Study/Literature Review (FSLR) to SHPD for Review.
01/2021: Draft EA and Anticipated FONSI scheduled for OEQC publication.
02/2022: Draft AIS to SHPD anticipated.
05/2023: Section 6E and 106 concurrence anticipated from SHPD/SHPO.
07/2023: Final EA publication.
01/2024: AMP approval from SHPD.
07/2025: WWTP and Phase 1 Collection System Design complete.
09/2025: Anticipated advertisement for bids-Phase 1 Construction.
07/2027: Nāālehu LCCs closure ʻ– Phase 1 construction complete.
B. PĀHALA LARGE CAPACITY CESSPOOL REPLACEMENT:
• Final EA/FONSI was published with OEQC on 03/08/20. Also, the Draft Final AIS
was submitted to SHPD on 02/26/20 and approved on 04/20/20.
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• Subdividing WWTP land has been initiated with KSBE with land acquisition
negotiations to ongoing. Based on SHPD’s review and acceptance of the AIS, an
Archaeological Monitoring Plan (AMP) is required. AMP was submitted on
05/07/20 to SHPD for review/approval.
• The project is planned for funding with Clean Water State Revolving Funds
(CWSRF) monies and partially by a federal EPA grant.
• Current Schedule:
05/2020: WWTP Site and Easement Appraisal Updated.
11/2020: Final AMP.
01/2021: WWTP Order of Possession (AOC milestone, not per schedule).
08/12/21: Submit Special Permit Application.
03/23/22: WWTP and Phase 1 Collection System Design completion.
04/30/22: Advertisement for bids-Phase 1 Construction.
12/20/23: Pāhala LCCs closure.
C. LONO KONA SEWER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT:
• Construction has been completed. All mains have been installed. CCTV
inspection was completed on 11/06/19. Pre-final walk through was performed
on 10/30/19. Final walk through was conducted on 11/19/19.
• Letters to property owners signaling the start of the 180-day mandatory
connection requirement were mailed on 11/12/19. The letters state that hook-
up to the county sewer must be done by 05/10/20. Compliance deadline was
extended to 07/09/20 due to COVID-19. Notice of Violation Letters for non-
connected TMKs were mailed on 07/23/20.
• Current hookup count as of 08/06/20: 52 out of 112 TMKs have connected. Out
of the 112 TMKs, 18 are vacant lots. With the remaining 94 TMKs, 52 are
connected; 13 received extensions; and the remaining 29 TMKs are not
connected.
• USDA Rural Development has obligated loan and grant funds of $2,437,000 and
$4,024,800 respectively to this project. USDA’s Amendment 1 (dated 07/25/18)
provided additional loan and grant funding to cover cost overruns. An additional
loan of $3,699,000 and grant of $1,071,000 were added to the original
agreement. The low construction bid received was $8,531,814.
D. KEALAKEHE WWTP EFFLUENT R-1 UPGRADE:
• The Archaeological Inventory Survey (AIS) that is required by SHPD is proceeding.
The AIS report to SHPD was completed in early December 2019. SHPD is
requiring a 30-day consultation period due to cultural sites that have been
identified. The 30-day consultation period was extended because of comments
received by DLNR’s Historic Trails branch. The findings from the 30-day
consultation period have been incorporated into the AIS. The completed AIS was
submitted to SHPD on 03/20/20. SHPD’s review comments were received
07/08/20. The AIS will be revised and resubmitted by early November 2020.
The anticipated EIS schedule is the following:
Resubmit AIS (to SHPD): November 2020
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Receive SHPD Approval on AIS: February 2021
Prepare Final EIS: March 2021
Publish Final EIS: June 2021
• The project has been placed “on-hold” by the mayor because of funding issues
and the Maui County (Lahaina WWTP injection wells) U.S. Supreme Court
appeal.
• With the SCOTUS decision, WWD has begun work to award a contract for a
consultant to perform a tracer/dye study to determine if KWWTP effluent
disposed via the sump is reaching coastal waters (state waters). The previous
USGS/DOH study is being used to guide this study.
• Other Impacts of the SCOTUS decision/mayor’s “on-hold” on the Project:
◦ Final R-1 treatment construction documents were being prepared but have
been placed “on-hold.”
◦ The constructed wetlands design was stopped at 90%.
◦ The SAT design was stopped at 50%. Consultant will need to perform a 6-
month pilot-scale SAT for longer-term phosphorus removal performance once
project is given the okay to proceed.
• The long-range plans for R-1 quality effluent began in 2007 as a phased
approach. Phase I work installed a reuse line along Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway
between the Kohanaiki area and Kealakehe Parkway (completed in 2018).
• DOH has earmarked SRF monies in the amount of $54 million to fund both
design and construction of the R-1 upgrade at the Kealakehe WWTP.
• Received SRF commitment letter for Outside Fence Line (OSFL) consultant
contract (Brown and Caldwell). DOH is trying to fund projects on a fiscal year
basis, and this has slowed down their execution of the SRF commitment letter.
Contract has been placed “on-hold” by the mayor.
• Design of the North and South R-1 distribution pipelines has been reinitiated
under Phase 2 of the OSFL design work.
• Hina Lani DWS 1 MG Reservoir (tank) transfer to DEM is awaiting NTP on the R-1
OSFL consultant design contract.
• Aliʻi Drive Salinity Study: Work on sampling salinity to identify if seawater
intrusion is infiltrating faulty sewer pipelines along Aliʻi Drive has begun. Salinity
measurements are continuing. Both the Keopu SPS and Lanihau SPS service
areas show I/I occurring during high tides. Hale Halawai SPS shows little or no
salinity resulting from sea water I/I. CCTV of the affected gravity sewers
servicing the Lanihau SPS and Keopu SPS revealed that numerous joints have
separated. Approximately $200,000 has been directed to purchase CIPP kits to
seal the joints. Also, a new CCTV camera has been purchased to video the
laterals in this section. Crews have started to install the CIPP kits from the week
of 07/27/20. CIPP progress as of 08/07/20:
MH 13659 to MH 13696 (300-ft);
MH 13696 to MH 13701 (75-ft);
MH 13701 to MH 13712 (73-ft);
MH 13712 to MH 13714 (253-ft).
Total to date: 701-ft.
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Coordination with the Lanihau Force Main Replacement Project and the Ironman
(if held) will need to occur.
E. NORTH KONA SEWER PUMP STATION
• This new sewer pump station will be located on the mauka side of Queen
Kaʻahumanu Highway. It is to receive wastewater from a portion of the area
below Ane Keohokalole Highway between Hina Lani Street and Kealakehe
Parkway. The wastewater will be pumped to the Kealakehe WWTP via new force
mains. The new sewer pump station is scheduled to be complete in July 2022.
• The preliminary engineering report for the new pump station has been finalized.
• The Environmental Assessment (EA) process has begun. Consultant was issued a
NTP in late December 2019. Draft EA is expected to be complete by August
2020.
• The county is waiting for land transfer from West Hawaiʻi Business Park (WHBP)
for the SPS site. WHBP needs to subdivide land before transfer to the county.
Land transfer is expected to occur by June 2020. Currently WHBP is still waiting
for subdivision approval.
F. FACILITY REPAIR/EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT PROJECTS:
• Pua Sewage Pump Station (SPS) Upgrade: Design items for additional upgrades
needed besides pump replacement at the Pua SPS are being worked into a new
contract. It will include a complete renovation, including structural, electrical,
and mechanical upgrades to the pump station. Cause for renovation is due to
deterioration of the wet well from HS; electrical component damage due to HS
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corrosion and the overall age of the facility; and mechanical damage due to
faulty discharge line valves due to hydraulic surging. Work is to include
upgrading the HVAC; replacing/upgrading components of the electrical system;
replacing corroded duct work; upgrading the wet well level control system; and
improving on safety issues by eliminating fire and electrical hazards to achieve
compliance with NFPA 820 and 70E. DEM is now preparing a Preliminary
Engineering Report so the project can qualify for a CWSRF loan to support design
and construction.
• Pua Force Main (dual FM): DEM is applying for a CWSRF loan for the design
effort. CWSRF has placed loan application on hold pending submittal of a
Preliminary Engineering Report (PER). County will be attempting to prepare a
PER with excerpts from the initial 1990 design.
• Lanihau SPS Force Main Replacement: Construction bids have been received, and
anticipated NTP to construction contractor (JW Glover) is on 06/10/20. Project
will replace approximately 800 lineal feet of pipe form the Lanihau SPS and
connect to the manhole at the Palani Road and Kuakini Street intersection.
Construction team mobilized on 08/17/20 with anticipation that work will be
complete by late September 2020.
• Repair/Replace Hilo, Kulāʻimano, and Pāpa’ikou WWTP Programmatic Plans: All
three WWTPs are nearing the end of their useful life along with being located in
corrosive atmospheres, expediting the aging process. Kulāʻimano WWTP is
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nearing 45 years, Pāpaʽikou is nearing 37 years, and Hilo is nearing 30 years. The
work will first conduct a condition assessment to develop a repair and
replacement/upgrade (R&R) 20-year cost projection of what unit processes or
major equipment should be repaired, replaced or upgraded. Included in this
condition assessment phase is a process optimization evaluation to identify the
strategies that can be incorporated into the design to reduce operating costs,
improve process control, and increase digestion volatile solids reduction.
Inherent to this optimization effort will be to review flows and loads projections
and process modeling. The three major planning directions the county desires to
evaluate are:
1. Whether the county should repair the existing WWTP;
2. Replace the entire WWTP with a new WWTP; or
3. Replace the existing process with a similar one on the existing WWTP site.
WWD is awaiting execution/award and NTP of contract.
• Other Repair Projects that are in the works:
◦ Hilo WWTP Headworks, Septage Receiving Station, and Primary Clarifier
upgrades;
◦ Hilo Biotower Repairs: replace feed pumps and replace distribution arms and
drives;
◦ Hilo WWTP: repair anaerobic digesters, dewatering units, and sludge drying;
◦ Kulāʻimano WWTP: repair headworks, secondary clarifiers, activated sludge
reactors, and aerobic digesters;
◦ Pāpaʽikou WWTP: repair headworks, secondary clarifier center drive; and
◦ Kealakehe WWTP Headworks and Kealakehe SPS Upgrades.
G. ULU WINI (KALOKO) WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT:
• WWD continues to maintain stability of the treatment plant with the goal of
achieving consistent process data and meeting the regulatory as well as
expected effluent limits. The treatment system currently meets DOH regulatory
requirements, and nutrient removal is taking place. The longer term goal being
considered is to install a gravity sewer line in Hina Lani Street that connects to
the existing dry sewer in Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway as part of the North Kona
Sewer Pump Station project. The Ulu Wini Housing community would connect to
the gravity line, and the existing Kaloko WWTP would be decommissioned.
• State DOH UIC annual Inspection on 06/18/19 issued an unacceptable O&M
rating. County has begun the second phase of the Affirmative Action Plan’s work
on the WWTP. In this phase, WWD will be recommending what improvements
to the WWTP can help run this facility until the new North Kona SPS can be
completed (2024).
H. UPDATE ON WATER SHUT-OFF FOR NON PAYMENT OF SEWER BILLS:
DEM is currently drafting administrative rules for the implementation of water shut-
off for non-payment of sewer fees. The Department of Water Supply (DWS) is also
drafting amendments to its rules to allow for water shut-off due to non-payment of
sewer fees. Both DEM and DWS rules need to be amended for the water shut-off to
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be implemented. In the meantime, DEM continues to work with delinquent
customers to bring their accounts current and refer accounts to the Office of the
Corporation Counsel to pursue judgments when necessary.
I. FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY PLAN/ASSET MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
The next step is the Option Period being initiated by EPA and includes procurement
and set-up of the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS)
software. Of the two finalists, NexGen and VueWorks, the county has selected
NexGen. Purchase of the software has been initiated and installation/
implementation is to occur over the next 8 months. Because of EPA’s help (grant),
EPA is purchasing the first $137,000 and the county is purchasing the remaining
$17,000 of NexGen’s total cost of $154,000. Initial project planning activities are to
start mid-January 2020. Project kickoff meetings were held on February 10 and 11,
2020. NexGen will now be working on importing current COH data into their
database. Expected completion date was April 2020, but due to COVID-19 the date
has been moved to September 2020.
J. ALTERNATIVE FINANCING/FUNDING
WWD is engaging the services of a Grant/Loan Consultant (Dig Deep) to help WWD
identify and seek alternative financing sources other than State DOH CWSRF and
General Obligation Bonds to help in financing CIP projects such as the Pāhala LCC
Closure, Nāālehu LCC Closure, Kealakehe Rʻ-1, etc.
WWD also is exploring public-private partnerships (3P) that will help the county
finance some of the WWD CIP projects.
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