HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-02-06 Mayor Harry Kim's testimony re HB 1418Harry Kim
Mayor
Wil Okabe
Managing Director
Barbara J. Kossow
Deputy Managing Director
GbiUN of C'UnUfuni"'t
(Offirr of fh>e GaVor
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553
KONA: 74-5044 Are Keohokalole Hwy, Bldg. C . Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
(808)323-4444 • Fax(808)323-4440
February 6, 2017
Representative Ryan I. Yamane, Chair
Water and Land
Hawai'i State Capitol
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dear Chair Yamane and Members:
RE: HB 1418
Thank you for this opportunity to testify in support of HB 1418.
We are informed by the State National Flood Insurance Program Coordinator that her
agency has been working closely with FEMA to prevent the State from being suspended
from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). That program provides flood maps
used to identify flood risk areas; flood insurance; disaster relief assistance/funds; and
much more. Participation in the NFIP is essential for the State and counties of Hawaii
in terms of federal assistance for damage sustained during natural disasters.
It is my understanding that HB 1418 and administration bills HB 1122 and SB 988 would
bring the State into compliance with FEMA's regulations.
Therefore, we respectfully request your approval of HB 1418.
R c submitted,
1�
Harry Kim
Mayor
County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity provider and Employer