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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-09-04 Letter to Herbert Thweatt re: International Economic Development Council - Economic Recovery Volunteer ProgramHarry Kim Mai•or County of Hawai i Office of the Mayor Wil Okabe Managing Director Barbara J. Kossow Deputy Managing Director 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 September 4, 2018 Mr. Herbert Thweatt Economic Development Representative U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration 300 Ala Moana Boulevard / Federal Building Room 5180 Honolulu, Hawaii 96850 Dear Mr. Thweatt, RE: International Economic Development Council Economic Recovery Volunteer Program On behalf of Hawaii County, I am writing to express our enthusiastic interest in partnering with the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) as part of its economic recovery volunteer program. The 2018 Kilauea Volcano eruption, which is federally -declared disaster, has had tremendous negative economic impacts on our residents, businesses, and communities. We are reeling from the loss of 100s of homes, several roadways, a major power plant, water and electrical systems, a school, and scores of businesses. While the physical damage is primarily located in the vicinity of the eruption, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park also closed, which is our most significant tourist destination. We estimate that our total direct losses exceed $100 million, which has had a dramatic ripple effect across our island economy. Through phone calls, correspondence, and face-to-face meetings with the Vice President of IEDC, we have learned of their volunteer -based program and research capability to help disaster -impacted communities with economic recovery. We would County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. September 4, 2018 Mr. Thweatt Page 2 warmly welcome the help of experienced economic recovery staff and volunteers, so we strongly support the IEDC's request to the EDA for related grant funds. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, c: Diane Ley, Research & Development County of Hawai' i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.