HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-02-05 Letter to Glenn Wakai, Karl Rhoads, Mike Gabbard re SB 2972 Relating to Devlopment of Banyan DriveHarry Kim
Mayor
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Wil Okabe
Managing Director -
Barbara J. Kossow
Deputy it Director
(Ma of tip Atgar
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553
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February 5, 2018
Senator Glenn Wakai, Senator Karl Rhoads, Senator Mike Gabbard
Committee on Economic Development, Tourism, and Technology
Committee on Water and Land
Committee on Agriculture and Environment
Hawaii State Capitol, Room 224
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dear Senator Wakai, Senator Rhoads, Senator Gabbard and Committee Members:
Re: SB 2972 Relating to Development of Banyan Drive
Hearing Date: 02/05/18 — 2:45 pm; Conference Room 224
Thank you for convening this triple committee to take up an issue of great importance to
the economic well-being of Hawaii County. I support SB 2972„
As SB 2972 states, Banyan Drive is underutilized and in disrepair. It is the center of
tourism in East Hawai'i, but it is a jewel that is quite tarnished at the present time.
Hawai'i County has taken the first steps toward revitalizing the Banyan Drive peninsula.
The administration, Council, community, and Big Island legislators have found common
purpose; the redevelopment area has been defined; and a conceptual master plan has been
created as a starting point. Now funds are needed to conduct the environmental impact
statements necessary to complete the redevelopment plan and move forward.
The Hawaii County budget is severely strapped, and I have already had to impose
increases in our property, fuel, and vehicle weight taxes. Nevertheless, I can commit to you that
I would include $250,000 in the 2018-2019 County budget, in order to provide the matching
funds called for in SB 2972. We believe that it is just and proper to ask the State to share in the
EIS expense, given that the redevelopment area consists almost entirely of State land, but we
recognize that the County must do its part as well, to the best of our financial ability.
Please give SB 2972 your favorable consideration.
Respectfully submitted,
Harry Kim
Mayor, County of Hawaii
County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.