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Home My WebLink About2018-03-14 Letter to Henry J.C. Aquino re SB 2474, SD 2 Relating to Aviation Noise In and Around HVNPHarry Kim 11(2),,o/. &until Offirr of Wil Okabe A f anaging Dire'tor Barbara J. Kossolv Deputy Managing Director 25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553 KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohok5lole Hwy,, Bldg C • Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740 (808) 323-4444 • Fax (808) 323-4440 March 14, 2018 Representative Henry J.C. Aquino, Chair Committee on Transportation Hawaii State Capitol, Room 423 Honolulu, HI 96813 Dear Chair Aquino and Committee Members: Re: SB 2474, SD 2 Relating to Aviation Noise In and Around HVNP Hearing Date: 03-16-18 — 10:30 am; ouse Conference Room 423 1 support 0 2474, SD 2, and thank you for giving it a hearing. S 2474, SD 2 would require that the Department of Health conduct a study on the impact of aviation noise on residents of the Puna District and surrounding areas of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It also appropriates unspecified funds to the Department of Health to conduct the study. 1 know that funding is tight, but this noise issue is one of the most vexing that we face. Helicopters have been a source of endless complaints from communities that lie in the flight path to HVNP, and there should be no doubt that noise can constitute both a nuisance and a health hazard, especially in otherwise tranquil rural areas. Tour companies that bear the brunt of the public's ire could also benefit from such a study, if positive suggestions and/or compromises emerge from the study's findings. 1 have met with tour operators and asked them to develop a plan to address noise issues. They have taken some initial steps, and 1 commend them for that. Moreover, lam hopeful that tour operators and community members can work together. Having the study called for in 3 2474, SD 2 would be a positive way of moving the process forward. Thank you for your consideration. es ectfully submitted, Harry Kim Mayor, County of Ha al County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.