HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-10-22 PL-INT-2024-009051 GP 2045 Draft Comments - Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters oc,A'' ` RS,
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HAWAII REGIONAL COUNCIL OF
CARPENTERS
October 22, 2024
TO: Kona Community Development Plan Action Committee
FROM: Mark Anthony Clemente
Government Relations
Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters
SUBJECT: Final Draft General Plan 2045
On behalf of the Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters, I am writing to express our strong
support for initiatives aimed at revitalizing the community of Kona through local job creation
and sustainable development.
As one of the few organizations advocating for affordable housing, we recognize that ensuring
access to safe and affordable homes is critical for the future of our community. It is essential that
we support our local high school graduates by creating job opportunities that pay a living wage.
When young people can secure good jobs in their own community, it enables them to stay,
thrive, and contribute to Kona's growth.
Investing in the development of infrastructure in Kona—such as roads,public facilities, and
utilities—will help create a more resilient community. Developments of a center/complex for
major cultural, educational, and recreational activities as well as an Aging and Disability
Resource Center in underserved population centers such as Kona would contribute to community
resilience.
We urge that projects awarded to contractors prioritize hiring local skilled craftspeople, ensuring
that our neighbors benefit from the work being done in their own backyards. This investment not
only supports the local economy but also fosters pride and ownership among residents.
Furthermore, all projects on county lands must be covered under HRS § 104, which ensures
prevailing wages. Living wages are essential for attracting and retaining skilled tradespeople,
ultimately leading to higher-quality workmanship and improved project outcomes. By adhering
to these standards, we can ensure that the work being done in Kona is of the highest caliber,
contributing to a stronger and more sustainable community.
Mahalo for the opportunity to provide testimony.
STATE HEADQUARTERS & BUSINESS OFFICES
OAHU: 1311 Houghtailing Street,Honolulu Hawaii 96817-2712 • Ph.(808)847-5761 Fax(808)440-9188
HILO OFFICE: 525 KilaueaAvenue,Room 205,Hilo,Hawaii 96720-3050 • Ph.(808)935-8575 Fax(808)935-8576
KONA OFFICE: 75-126 Lunapule Road,Kailua-Kona,Hawaii 96740-2106 • Ph.(808)329-7355 Fax(808)326-9376
MAUI OFFICE: 330 Hookahi Street,Wailuku,Maui 96793-1449 • Ph.(808)242-6891 Fax(808)242-5961
KAUAI OFFICE: Kuhio Medical Ctr Bldg.,3-3295 Kuhio Hwy,Suite 201,Lihue,Kauai 96766-1040 • Ph.(808)245-8511 Fax(808)245-8911