HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012-09-13 PVEC Subcommittee NotesPower, Viewplanes, &Erosion Control Subcommittee
Minutes of the meeting of Sept. 13, 2012 5pm
Present: Susan Fischer, Toni Withington, Heather Meuller, Peter and Val
HELCO Power Rates -- Helco is attempting to lower rates by re- negotiating
contracts with alternative power suppliers. Current contract rates paid by
HELCO are pegged to the price of the diesel. HELCO is now paying suppliers
far more than it cost them to generate electricity. Several members as
individuals supported a County Council resolution to support HELCO in re-
negotiating the contract. At the same time HEECO has applied to the PUC for
a rate increase. This action has fostered the formation of a citizens group to
keep the rates low. The Kohala Wind Farm could generate more power for
our community, but HELCO transformers are not capable of handling that
power. Heather said she will try to arrange a tour /meeting for our group
with the Wind Farm people.
Street lights at Kawaihae — Susan pointed out that the number of street
lights at Kawaihae Hawaiian homes are brighter and more closely located
than street lights elsewhere and effect the night vision of people driving the
otherwise unlit highway at night. She has talked to highways division about
switching to LED bulbs that face downward. The group talked about polling
the community about highway lighting at Kawaihae since it affects all Kohala
drivers at night.
Meeting adjourned 6:15 Next meeting is Sept 29.
Minutes of the meeting of Sept. 29, 2012, 5pm
Present: Toni Withington, Lisa Andrews
HELCO Power Rates — Toni reported that the County Council resolution
supporting HELCO in renegotiating contracts with alternative energy
producers was adopted. She said the group is following the efforts of the
citizens group for lowering rates and will report next month.
Erosion Control — Toni reported that Kohala Lihikai has begun the growing
of naupaka plants at Upolu Airport in preparation for planting them along the
de -nuded land makai of the airport. The group will all start growing four
native groundcover plants and eventually hala.
Street lights at Kawaihae — Lisa suggested we wait until Susan gets back
to seek solutions for the bright lights along the highway.
Meeting adjourned 5:45 Next meeting Oct. 25