HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-03-12 Letter to Sylvia Luke and Kyle T. Yamashita re the CIP funding - Just MayorJIarry Kim
A 1 ayor
utiN
Offirr of tip
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553
KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy., Bldg C • Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
(808) 323-4444 • Fax (808) 323-4440
r
Wil Okabe
Ilanaging Director
Barbara J. Kossow
Deputy Alunaging Director
March 12, 2018
Honorable Sylvia Luke, Chair
Flawal`i State Capitol, Room 306
Honolulu, HI 96813
Honorable Kyle T. Yamashita, Chair
Hawaii State Capitol, Room 422
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dear Chair Luke and Representative Yamashita:
Just a short note to thank you for meeting with my aide, Andy Levin, and a special
thanks for including CIP funding for the homeless in the House version of the budget.
Homelessness has been identified as a top priority for State and County lawmakers for
several years, but any real solution has escaped us. Some statistics indicate that the number of
homeless is down a bit, but we know that the problem remains with us.
You have seen the broad scope of the problem and are providing for a meaningful
allocation of funds to the counties, enabling us to partner with you in dealing with this issue. We
are very grateful for that.
We know that we cannot really help people unless we take a comprehensive approach
that addresses the issues of health, mental health, drug addiction, affordable housing, and
more. Operating funds as well as CIP will be needed as we move forward. However, what a
great effort you are initiating with the commitment reflected in your budget! In return, we commit
that, if the appropriation survives the entire legislative process and the funds are released by the
Governor, we will use those monies wisely and justify the faith in the counties that you have
shown.
We will use our usual means to encourage the Senate to accept the House position on
this funding, but if there are any special efforts you would like us to take to acknowledge our
Representatives who supported the House budget, please let us know.
Very truly yours,
Harry Kim
Mayor, County of Hawali
County of Hawai`i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer,