HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-10-28 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: October 28, 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 SEPTEMBER 23, 2020
3. STATEMENT FROM THE CHAIR
4. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ITEMS ON THE AGENDA
5. NEW BUSINESS
a. Review and discuss Bill 207, which was referred by the County Council’s
Committee on Agriculture, Water, Energy, and Environmental Management to
the commission for comment and recommendation. Bill 207 reorganizes and
restructures the administrative and solid waste provisions of the Hawaiʻi County
Code (“Code”) that apply to the Department of Environmental Management,
including moving the tipping fee schedule from the Code to the department’s
administrative rules.
b. Review and discuss Bill 216, which was referred by the County Council’s
Committee on Agriculture, Water, Energy, and Environmental Management to
the commission for comment and recommendation. Bill 216 reorganizes and
restructures the wastewater provisions of the Hawaiʻi County Code, including
deleting the director’s authority to grant sewer exemptions, which conflicts with
State Department of Health’s administrative rules.
c. Discussion on the Commission’s priorities for 2021 and beyond.
6. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Further discussion on the status of the composting facility in Shipman Business
Park.
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 commissioners
have requested informational updates on items a through h below).
a. The status of the compost facility at Shipman Business Park (see also 6a above),
including what the plan is now.
b. The wastewater spill that occurred in Nāālehu ʻon January 22, 2020.
c. The chloride content in the sewage collection at different points along the line
and at the plants themselves.
d. Where the liners have been placed in the Aliʻi Drive and Palani Road sewer
system to make the pipes functional again.
e. The status of the Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan.
f. The illegal dumping situation in ōkala.Ōʻʻ
g. The status of the Waiʻ
h. Explanation on the legal difference between derelict and abandoned vehicle, and
the process(es) to remove both.
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i. There is a public hearing on November 19, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. (online via Webex)
to hear testimony regarding proposed changes to the department’s
administrative rules.
8. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Commissioners can suggest items they would like placed on the next agenda.
9. ANNOUNCEMENTS
The next meeting is scheduled for November 25, 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
OCTOBER 28, 2020
CURRENT LEGISLATION
ITEM DESCRIPTION CURRENT STATUS
Bill 207 Bill 207 reorganizes and restructures the 10/06/20: AWEEMC gave
administrative and solid waste provisions of positive recommendation.
the Hawaiʻi County Code (HCC) that apply to 10/21/20: First reading
DEM, including moving the tipping fee before County Council.
schedule from HCC to DEM’s administrative
rules.
Bill 216 Bill 216 reorganizes and restructures the 10/20/20: AWEEMC gave
wastewater provisions of HCC, including positive recommendation.
deleting the director’s authority to grant 11/06/20: First reading
sewer exemptions (conflicts with state DOH before County Council.
administrative rules).
Resolution Authorizes the acquisition of private property 10/21/20: Second reading
741-20 by eminent domain for the Pāhala WWTP. before the County Council.
DIRECTOR’S INFORMATIONAL UPDATES (ITEMS 1 THROUGH 8 REQUESTED BY
COMMISSIONERS):
1. Status of the compost facility at Shipman Business Park, including what the plan is now.
2. Update on the wastewater spill that occurred in Nāālehu ʻon January 22, 2020.
3. Information on the chloride content in the sewage collection at different points along the
line and at the plants themselves.
4. Information on where the liners have been placed in the Aliʻi Drive and Palani Road sewer
system to make the pipes functional again.
5. Update on the status of the Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan.
6. Update on the illegal dumping situation in ōkala.Ōʻʻ
7. Status of the Waiōhinu Transfer Station.ʻ
8. Explanation on the legal difference between derelict and abandoned vehicle, and the
process(es) to remove both.
9. There is a public hearing on 11/19/20 at 2:00 p.m. (online via Webex) to hear testimony
regarding proposed changes to the department’s administrative rules.
SOLID WASTE DIVISION PROJECTS AND UPDATES
1. OPERATIONS
• SWD’s Mass Notification System has continued signing up residents for the notification
system. Residents access the system by links provided through QR codes printed on
banners at all SWD facilities, or through a link provided on the department webpage at
www.hawaiizerowaste.org.
• Collection of appliances (white goods) resumed at most stations that normally accept
them, which include Hilo, Kona, Waimea, Hawi, Honokaāhoa, ō, Keaʻa, Puakʻau, P
Waiōhinu, Volcanʻo, Pāhala, and Keauhou.
• SWD expects to begin hauling commercial refuse from the East Hawaiʻi Sort Sta?on
Beginning December 1. SWD continues to hire positions that are needed for the
operation of this facility and all of the other services provided by SWD.
2. ADMINISTRATION
• Interviews continue to be held for EO-III positions at various baseyards.
• SWD is preparing the FY21-22 budget
3. SOLID WASTE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
• Work is complete 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.
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• 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 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. SWD
staff and Parametrix have finished the draft of the ISWMP.
• The following are the next steps for the implementation of the ISWMP:
◦ 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 03/31/21 or when commencement of services
begins under new procurement, whichever is earlier. 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 five of the recycling and transfer stations.
Overseas markets for recyclables are shrinking, and the value has been volatile. If
further market changes occur, program modifications may be implemented.
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• 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.).
• 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 to educate the public on
proper recycling and contamination issues is being developed. It includes 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. 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.
• 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:
• Kealakehe High School is temporarily not accepting UMO due to COVID-19.
• Contract ends 11/30/20. Bid specifications are being reviewed by Purchasing 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 seven
locations.
• The county operates eight Reuse Centers at recycling and transfer stations located
in Hilo, Kea‘au, Pāhoa, Kealakehe, Keauhou, Laupāhoehoe, Waimea, and
Wai‘ōhinu.
E. ELECTRONICS RECYCLING:
• The county’s electronic recycling program has resumed after being temporarily
suspended from the end of March due to COVID-19 and the delayed DOH funding
contract for FY21.
• The IFB 3514 contract with Mr. K’s R&R expires 06/30/21.
• The Electronic Recycling Program has resumed. Residents are allowed no-charge
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household electronics recycling on the 2 and 4 Saturdays of the month at Mr.
K’s R&R. Businesses, non-profits, schools, and others will be offered recycling for
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a fee at Mr. K’s. An acceptable list and more information is at
http://hawaiizerowaste.org/recycle/e-waste.
• Due to reduced DOH funding, only household electronics recycling at Kealakehe
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RTS resumed in August. The collection at the Kealakehe RTS is available the 3
Saturday of the month. Additional 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 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 as previously structured. Therefore, reductions in
service have been implemented. There is no county funding allocated in the
budget.
• SWD’s Recycling Section downsized the program to utilize only the funding from
the DOH and to no longer rely on the General Fund to support it.
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. Possible rescheduling of the Kealakehe event is dependent on the end
of the interisland travel quarantine for our Oʻahu-based vendor. 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 due to 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.
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• 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.
• 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 has been suspended due to
COVID-19. These tours are helpful in educating the next generation on recycling and
sustainability. 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.
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• 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.
• Atlas Recycling was awarded the bid for Ocean View, Wai‘ōhinu, and Volcano.
• The fourth quarter report has been completed and submitted to DOH.
• The final report for FY20 has been completed and submitted to DOH.
• There was a burglary at the Certified Redemption Center located at the Kaʻauhuhu
Recycling and Transfer Station on Saturday, 08/15/20.
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. Previously aired TV and radio ads
are available at www.hawaiizerowaste.org/info/media-library/ (HZW’s Media
Library page).
• Staff presentations to community organizations have been suspended due to
COVID-19.
• 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/.
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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): Diamond Auto Workzʻ (6-Month
extension requested).
• Zone 3 Towing (N. and S. Kohala and Hāmākua): Diamond Auto Workz.
• Hilo Vehicle Disposal: HMP dba Business Services Hawaiʻi - exercising last option year
extension.
• Kona vehicle disposal: Contract was awarded to HMP dba Business Services Hawaiʻi -
st
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.
• A new DAV Coordinator began working in September.
• 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 winter 2020 or spring 2021.
• 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.
• DAV coordinators are working with DHHL to remove vehicles from vacant DHHL land in
Makuʻu, a Hawaiian Homes subdivision.
• DAV Section continues to assist the Police Traffic Services Section with the disposal of
vehicles towed under Aliyah’s Law and other traffic hazard tows.
• Monthly towing numbers:
AV Towing 2020-21
E. Hawai‘i W. Hawai‘i
July 2020 115 89
Aug 2020 87 76
Sept 2020 80 54
Oct 2020
Nov 2020
Dec 2020
Jan 2021
Feb 2021
Mar 2021
Apr 2021
May 2021
June 2021
The total tow requests for September 2020 was 156; however, 22 vehicles were not on
location at the time of arrival.
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6. RELOAD FACILITY UPDATE (FY 20-21)
Total Tons Taken Total Tons
Month/Year to Reload Facility Diverted
Jul 2020 4,529.58 0.00
Aug 2020 4,333.78 0.00
Sept 2020 4,052.55 0.00
Oct 2020
Nov 2020
Dec 2020
Jan 2021
Feb 2021
Mar 2021
Apr 2021
May 2021
Jun 2021
Totals 12,915.91 0.00
When time permits, the SWD staff removes the corrugated cardboard from the trash and
places the corrugated cardboard in a roll-off for recycling.
7. MONTHLY LANDFILL TONNAGES (FY 20-21)
Month/Year WHSL
Jul 2020 17,409.38
Aug 2020 16,027.05
Sept 2020 14,526.61
Oct 2020
Nov 2020
Dec 2020
Jan 2021
Feb 2021
Mar 2021
Apr 2021
May 2021
June 2021
Totals 47,963.04
8. MONTHLY TRANSFER STATION TONNAGES (FY 20-21)
Month/Year EHRSS WHSL
Jul 2020 3,800.06 8,778.34
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Aug 2020 3,673.55 8,386.36
Sept 2020 3,421.87 4,200.70
Oct 2020
Nov 2020
Dec 2020
Jan 2021
Feb 2021
Mar 2021
Apr 2021
May 2021
June 2021
Totals 10,895.48 16,779.10
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. County is waiting on DOH response.
• 08/06/20: Draft Pāpaʽikou NPDES permit received from DOH. Comments
submitted to DOH on 08/31/20.
• 09/09/20: Received a Notice of Apparent Violation (NAV) from DOH on
wastewater collection system condition and sewage overflows. County’s response
due 10/09/20. Potential enforcement action centers on the County’s cast iron
force mains that were installed back in the 1960’s. Several breaks have been
experienced with two of these force mains--Lanihau and Keopu.
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.
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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): new recruit to start on 11/01/20.
• WWTPO II (Hilo): under consideration for reclassification.
• Assistant WWTPO (Kona): selected candidate. Pending reference checks.
• Lead Electrician (Hilo): revising RTF.
• Trades Helper (Kona): interviewing candidates 10/14/20.
• Sewer Maintenance Repairer (Kona): currently in recruitment.
• WW Plant Mechanic (Kona): resubmitting RTF for open recruitment.
• Storekeeper (Kona): currently in recruitment.
B. VACANT POSITIONS AT RAILROAD OFFICE:
• Civil Engineer IV (1 position): currently in recruitment.
• Civil Engineer V (1 position): currently in recruitment.
• Projects Coordinator (1 position): Recruit started work on 10/01/20.
• Database Analyst (Hilo): position filled; start date 11/23/20.
• GIS Analyst I (Hilo): selected candidate did not accept offer.
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:
• WWTP Land has been selected. The state EA completion required prior to
purchase of land for the treatment/disposal facility. Initial archaeological, flora
and fauna checks 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.
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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.
• Subdividing WWTP land has been initiated with KSBE; land acquisition is
proceeding through condemnation process.
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 10/14/20: 60 out of 112 TMKs have connected. Out
of the 112 TMKs, 18 are vacant lots. With the remaining 34 TMKs that have not
connected, 25 received extensions, while the remaining 9 have not responded to
the Notice of Violation letter. DEM-WWD is reaching out to these 9 TMKs as to
their connection status.
• 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
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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 required a
30-day consultation period due to cultural sites that were 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
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
decision.
• 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” of the Project:
◦ Final R-1 treatment construction documents were being prepared but have
been placed “on-hold.”
◦ The subsurface wetland 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 R-1 upgrades to the Kealakehe WWTP 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.
Design work has been suspended and all work to date has been frozen on the SAT
and Subsurface Wetlands. Contract terminated as Phase 1 of the OSFL contract.
• Design of the North and South R-1 distribution pipelines has been reinitiated
under Phase 2 of the OSFL design work. Design contract NTP issued 10/13/20.
• Hina Lani DWS 1 MG Reservoir (tank) transfer to DEM is awaiting NTP on the R-1
OSFL consultant design contract.
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• Aliʻi Drive Salinity Study: Work on sampling salinity to identify if seawater
intrusion is infiltrating faulty sewer pipelines along Aliʻi Drive has begun. 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. Approximately 700 LF of sewers were lined
with the CIPP kits to date. On 08/17/20, work was suspended for the Lanihau
Force Main replacement project. Line crew was moved to help assist contractor
for wastewater diversion to Keopu SPS during this construction work.
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 November
2020.
• The county is working on land transfer from West Hawaiʻi Business Park (WHBP)
for the SPS site. WHBP received Final subdivision approval in August 2020.
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. CWSRF has initially approved PER and is
preparing commitment letter for funding design.
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• Lanihau SPS Force Main Replacement: 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 substantial completion date projected by mid-October 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
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.
NTP issued 09/14/20.
• 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;
◦ Keopu SPS/FM Relocation and Replacement;
◦ Hale Halawai Force Main Replacement; and
◦ Kealakehe WWTP Headworks and Kealakehe SPS/FM 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.
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• 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
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 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 December
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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