HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-02-23 Letter to Donovan M. Dela Cruz and Gilbert S.C. Keith-Agaran re SB 2972, SD 1 Relating to Development of Banyan DriveHarry Kim
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Wil Okabe
Managing Director
Barbara j. Kossow
Deputy Nianaging Director
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25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553
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(808) 323-4444 • Fax (808) 323-4440
February 23, 2018
Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz, Chair
Committee on Ways and Means
Hawaii State Capitol, Room 211
Honolulu, HI 96813
Senator Gilbert S.C. Keith-Agaran, Vice -Chair
Committee on Ways and Means
Hawaii State Capitol, Room 211
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dear Chair Dela Cruz, Vice -Chair Keith-Agaran and Committee Members:
Re: SB 2972, SD 1 Relating to Development of Banyan Drive
Hearing Date: 02/28/18 — 11:00 am; Conference Room 211
Thank you for again addressing an issue of great importance to the economic well-being of
Hawaii County, the redevelopment of Banyan Drive. I support SB 2972, SD 1
As SB 2972, SD 1 states, Banyan Drive is underutilized and in disrepairIt is the center of
tourism in East Hawaii, but it is a jewel that is quite tarnished at the present time.
Hawaii 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.
SB 2972, SD 1, provides that "no funds shall be expended unless matched on a dollar -for -dollar
basis by funds from Hawaii County." Please know that the Hawaii County budget is severely strapped,
and I have already had to impose increases in our property, fuel, and vehicle weight taxes. Nevertheless,
this issue is important enough that 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. We do 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, S 1 your favorable consideration.
Respectfully submitted,
Harry Kim
Mayor, County of Hawaii
County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.