2019-02-07 Letter to Henry J.C. Aquino and Troy N. Hashimoto HB 313 Relating to Fuel Tax Funds

Home

Harry Kim Mayor County of Hawai`i Office of the Mayor Wil Okabe Managing Director Barbara J. Kossow Deputy Managing Director 25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawai'i 96720 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553 KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy., Bldg C • Kailua-Kona, Hawai'i 96740 (808) 323-4444 • Fax (808) 323-4440 February 7, 2019 Representative Henry J.C. Aquino, Chair Representative Troy N. Hashimoto, Vice Chair COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORATION Dear Chair Aquino, Vice Chair Hashimoto and Committee Members: RE: HB 313 Relating to Fuel Tax Funds I apologize for the lateness of this testimony, but I feel so strongly about HB 313 that I think it is necessary that I share my thoughts with you. My theory of taxation has always been that money should be raised on fairness and distributed equitably based on need. Part of the greatness of Hawai'i is that we have long recognized this principle. For instance, our early leaders established a statewide school system, so that (at least in theory) a student in Ka`u and a student in Kahala have access to the same quality of public education. Likewise, this statewide shared responsibility has been honored, and should continue to be honored, with respect to our roads and highways. Someone living in rural Kauai is not a second- class citizen and should not have second-class roads. We are all in this together. The needs in downtown Honolulu may be greater, and therefore more money may be spent there, but it is not because the money is raised there; it is because the need is there. We do not always live up to our ideals, but we should strive to retain our values at every opportunity. urge a no vote on HB 313. Sincerely, County of Hawai`i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.