July 2, 2004

Hawai`i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer

The General Plan is the county’s blueprint for the future. It contains the county’s overall goals, policies, and courses of action. It contains chapters on economic development, land use, natural beauty, transportation, housing, and other topics.

The General Plan plays an especially important role in land use planning. The General Plan includes a Land Use Pattern Allocation Guide ("LUPAG") map. Zoning and other major land use changes have to be consistent with the General Plan and the LUPAG map.

The General Plan is also supposed to guide major public improvements, such as new roads and other public facilities.

Both the county charter and state land use laws require the county to have a General Plan. The General Plan is enacted by ordinance passed by the County Council.

The current General Plan was passed in 1989. The law requires that there be a comprehensive update of the General Plan every ten years. In 1999, the Planning Department began a major review of the General Plan. In April 2001, the Department sent a revised version of the General Plan to the Planning Commission, which held nine hearings on the Plan, and sent it on to the County Council in January 2002.

The General Plan, as proposed by the Planning Department and approved by the Planning Commission, contains many changes and innovations. Some are:

• It tries to identify the county’s best agricultural lands, and proposes policies so that these lands will be conserved for agricultural uses.

• The LUPAG maps propose taking out some of the resort sites contained in the present General Plan, such as those next to Spencer Park and the Pu’ukohola Heiau in Kawaihae, O’oma, Kohanaiki, Honaunau, and Pohue Bay.

• The proposed changes would also simplify the development process within the existing major resort areas, such as Waikoloa or the Mauna Lani.

• The present LUPAG maps tend to ignore existing subdivisions like Hawaiian Paradise Park or Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, where so many of our residents now live. They are called "Orchards" or "Extensive Agriculture". The proposed General Plan would have a new category called "Rural" to describe these subdivisions.

None of the proposed changes to the General Plan become official unless a new General Plan is enacted by ordinance by the County Council. At the current stage in the process, the County Council can propose new amendments to the General Plan, in addition to those that came from the Planning Department, and can modify or reject the Planning Department’s amendments. Any new amendments from the Council, and any modifications from the Council, have to be reviewed by the Planning Director and the Planning Commission before the Council can take final action. The Council has held hearings on the General Plan since January 2002, but it has not yet taken any action.

Both the present (1989) and proposed versions of the General Plan can be viewed on the County’s website, http://co.hawaii.hi.us .

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Fair share assessments are payments by developers to the County for regional infrastructure improvements. The amount of the assessment is related to the proportionate impact resulting from the project. For example, a 100-lot subdivision will increase the need for road improvements, more parks, expanded police and fire protection facilities, and expanded solid waste facilities.

Based on an infrastructure needs study done in the early 1990’s, the proportionate impact was calculated to be an assessment per unit or lot of:

• $3,480.85 for parks

• $3,101.68 for roads

• $332.61 for fire protection

• $168.40 for police

• $145.62 for solid waste.

The fees are slightly different for multifamily and commercial projects. These base assessments have been adjusted over the years for inflation using the Honolulu Consumer Price Index.

Fair share assessments have been imposed only on projects that require rezoning, and are set forth in rezoning ordinances.

Fair share assessments have the same purpose as impact fees—to collect fees to pay for growth. Impact fees, however, are set forth in detail by ordinance and State law requires them to be collected at the time of building or grading permits.

The County needs an impact fee ordinance to replace the informal fair share assessment for the following reasons:

1) the amounts of the assessments need to be reevaluated, updated, and uniformly applied;

2) policies need to set forth how, when, and where to use the impact fees collected;

3) legislators need to decide whether to impose the fee at just the rezoning level (the present level) or widen the net to the building permit level.

An impact fee ordinance was introduced in the early 1990’s but failed. In the absence of an impact fee ordinance, the Council passed in 1992 a general fair share assessment authorization (Hawaii County Code §2-162).

Since 1993 when fair share assessments were first widely applied, approximately $3.6 million has been collected in cash. Besides cash payments, developers have the option to construct improvements, dedicate land, or contribute in other approved ways in lieu of paying the money to the County. These in-lieu credits to date total approximately $15.2 million.

While the fair share assessments are imposed at the time of rezoning, the payments are not due until the actual subdivision or plan approval is received, when a project is ready to go. If all projects are built as proposed when rezoned, the balance of assessments due is approximately $55 million.

In actuality, projects change substantially from the time of rezoning to build-out, often a significant reduction in the number of units. Therefore, the potential amount owed is speculative and subject to the actual number of units built and whether and when the project is built.

Fair share assessment collections are recorded and monitored by the County Planning Department. The following sets out how the funds should be used:

• Since fair share assessments are related to the impacts of specific projects, the funds collected should be spent within the vicinity (judicial district) of the project where the impacts will occur.

• The funds should be spent within a reasonable time of collection, currently within six years.

• The assessments can be used only for capital improvements, not operational costs such as salaries.

The annual capital improvements budget will identify those projects that anticipate using the fair share assessment funds. An annual report to the County Council will summarize expenditures from the assessments and report on the fund balance.

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The 4th of July celebration and fireworks in Hilo become a tradition for many families. For the second year running, plans have been made that will provide more fireworks viewing area and make it possible for more families to enjoy this day, while addressing safety concerns that have arisen. There has been special concern for children because of excessive drinking, violent behavior, and vehicles driving on the beach and grass areas, especially after dark.

The following public safety agencies have been working together to make this 4th of July celebration a fun and safe event. These agencies are Civil Defense, Fire Department, Police Department, Parks and Recreation, Public Works, Environmental Management, Mass Transit Agency, State Highways, State Parks and DOCARE.

A plan has been developed that involves designated parking areas, free shuttle services, several large public rest tents and road closures.

This will provide more good fireworks viewing as well as address public safety concerns. The Bayfront Highway will be closed from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. on the evening of the 4th of July so people can watch the fireworks safely from these areas. Additional parking will be available on the Hamakua side of Kumu Street, where people can then cross Kamehameha Avenue and access Bayfront through gates in the fence. Free shuttles will be available all day to carry people and their picnic gear from designated parking areas to viewing areas. The only significant change this year is that Kamehameha Avenue will not be closed. While Kamehameha Ave. will be open there will be no parking along Kamehameha Ave. or the adjacent open fields. (See map for the permissible parking areas).

We realize that these changes will inconvenience some people who are used to parking on the grass and in the Bayfront area. Please understand that these measures are being taken to make this a safe and fun day for all.

Roads:

• Lihiwai Street from Banyan Drive near Coconut Island to Old Isles parking lot, 12:00 noon on July 3 to 10:00 a.m. on July 5.

• Bayfront Highway from Waianuenue Avenue to Wailoa Bridge, 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on July 4. (No parking allowed all day.)

• Pauahi Street from Kamehameha Ave. to Bayfront Highway, 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on July 4.

• County Building and Aupuni Center parking lots on Pauahi and Aupuni Streets.

• Afook Chinen Civic Auditorium parking lots.

• Soccer field on the downtown (Hamakua) side of Kumu Street.

• Designated disabled parking at the old Isles parking lot and the above location at Kumu Street.

• For those parking at Wailoa Center, the State Building, the County Buildings and on nearby mauka streets, please access the viewing area through the crosswalk at Pauahi Street.

• No parking along Kamehameha Ave. or the adjacent open fields.

• Free round trip shuttles will run to and from designated parking and viewing areas from 9:00am to 10:00 p.m. on July 4th. (See map)

• Shuttles are equipped with lifts to accommodate persons with disabilities.

• To prevent accidents and injuries due to fire.

• To create safer and better fireworks viewing.

• To allow emergency responders to reach people needing assistance.

• Tents and canopies are prohibited in state parks.

Note: Several large public rest tents will be available in designated areas. (See map)

TRASH DISPOSAL AND CLEANUP: In past years, over 11 tons of litter was left by people and volunteers pitched in to pick it up.

• Trash bags will be distributed by Parks and Recreation personnel on July 4th.

• Dumpsters will be located throughout the areas. Please use them.

For Traffic Closures and Parking questions:

Call Roxcie Waltjen at 961-8706

Call Tom Brown at 961-8343

Call Fire Inspector Jack Pacleb at 961-8350.

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When: Monday, July 5, 2004 at 9:30 a.m.

Where: The parade route starts: Kona's Kekuaokalani Gym on Kuakini – Palani, via Ali’i Drive, ending at Coconut Grove Marketplace.

Prizes will be awarded in the following categories: Most Patriotic, Floats, Keiki and Marching.

For entry forms, call Helen Myhre at 325-5140 or Ken Clewett at 326-4447.

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The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), with assistance from the Hawai`i Department of Health and Hawai`i County, will remove several thousand cubic yards of contaminated soil and debris from the Hilo Bayfront area near Ponahawai Street. Most of this soil and debris are wrapped and buried in a plastic cell (the "burrito") near the flood control levee which was built as the Alenaio Stream Flood Control Project. The soil and debris were left over following the destruction of the Hilo Gas Company in the 1960 Tsunami. Two community meetings will be held to discuss the upcoming removal project and answer any questions the public may have.

Following the tsunami of 1960, the State of Hawai`i designated this Bayfront area a "Tsunami Buffer Zone" and created a recreation area. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers then constructed a concrete flood control channel, retention pond and levee to help prevent the flooding of downtown Hilo during major storms. The retention pond and levee were built on the former Hilo Gas Company property.

It was during this construction that the Corps discovered contamination from gas company operations just below the ground surface. The contamination was primarily volatile and semi-volatile polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Volatile means the substance readily transfers to the air. PAHs come from gas manufacturing processes and can be potentially harmful to human health. The Corps attempted to bio-remediate the waste using natural processes to destroy the hazardous components. However, this procedure was not totally effective. The waste was then dug up and encapsulated in a plastic "burrito" near the flood control levee. Besides the waste in the "burrito," additional similar contamination from the Hilo Gas Company operations has since been found next to the retention pond. Because this area is susceptible to tsunamis and flooding which could expose and spread the contamination, it is important to remove the hazard. In August 2003, the Department of Health requested help from EPA in removing the waste.

EPA’s plan for eliminating the threat posed by this contamination is to remove the waste that is in the "burrito". As part of this effort, DOH will remove the waste next to the retention pond. EPA will then re-grade the affected side of the levee to maintain the proper slope for flood control. The removed soil and debris will be transported to and used at the West Hawai`i Sanitary Landfill at Pu’uanahulu, the only landfill on the island permitted to handle such waste. A new municipal waste cell at the landfill is being prepared, and the waste from the "burrito" project will serve as the initial layer of "select waste" required for the new cell. This will reduce the County’s cost relative to preparing the cell for receipt of the County’s municipal waste.

EPA removal actions such as this are a quick and effective means of dealing with this type of situation. This Hawai`i Island Burrito project should take approximately three to four weeks from setup to completion. The anticipated start date for mobilizing staff and equipment is the week of July 12, 2004. While the work is going on, the public may see workers wearing protective clothing. This does not mean the public is at risk from the site or cleanup activities. As part of the site health and safety plan, workers must protect themselves due to regular and close proximity to contaminated substances.

People in the area may experience some nuisance factors associated with this type of project. That may include periodic odor from some of the contaminants at the site that may smell like mothballs. EPA will do all it can to minimize the odor using a non-hazardous foam. Air monitoring will be ongoing to ensure that potentially hazardous levels of contamination do not go off site. In addition, there will be some equipment noise associated with the digging and removing of dirt. Trucks transporting the material to the landfill at Pu’uanahulu may also create some inconvenience for the three to four weeks of the operation.

To hear more about the Hawai`i Island Burrito project, ask questions or voice concerns, please attend either of the following two meetings:

Wednesday, July 14, 2004 Thursday, July 15, 2004

7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m.

Aupuni Center Conference Room Waimea Civic [Community] Center

101 Pauahi Street, Hilo

If you have questions or concerns about the Hawai`i Island Burrito project or the public meetings, please contact any of the people listed below:

EPA On-Scene Coordinator
(562) 499-6312
benson.craig@epa.gov

Vicki Rosen

EPA Community Involvement Coordinator
(415) 972-3244
rosen.vicki@epa.gov

Craig and Vicki can also be reached toll-free at: (800) 231-3075. Please leave a message and your call will be returned.

EPA Press Officer
(808) 541-2711
higuchi.dean@epa.gov

State On-Scene Coordinator
(808) 586-4249
mcripps@eha.health.state.hi.us

Mayor’s Office
(808) 961-8223
cohexec@interpac.net

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The County of Hawaii Office of Management will hold a series of public meetings regarding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations which require the abandonment of large-capacity cesspools by April 5, 2005.

The purpose of the public meetings is to discuss the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's regulations, particularly to clarify the applicability of the regulations to land owners who may be utilizing large-capacity cesspools for wastewater disposal.

Possible alternative wastewater disposal systems available and potential means of financing the costs of upgrading the large-capacity cesspool with County, state and federal funds will also be discussed.

Schedule of Meetings: (Group meetings will be held at 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. unless otherwise specified. One-on-one follow-up meetings will be held between meetings. If necessary, the personal consultations may be extended, by appointment, to the following day.)

For further information, please call Margarita Hopkins at 961-8369.

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The Water Board of the County of Hawai‘i will hold a public hearing on a proposed rule to be added to the Department of Water Supply’s Rules and Regulations.

The topic of the proposed rule is the acceptance of existing private water systems. The proposed rule lists situations in which the Water Board will not accept existing private water systems, as well as listing all of the requirements that must be met in order for the Water Board to accept private water systems.

Copies of the proposed rule, which would be added as Section 4-13, are available for review at the Department of Water Supply’s main office during normal work hours. A copy of the proposed rule will be available for a nominal fee, including postage.

Requests for copies may be made either in writing, or by calling either Doreen Shirota or Denise Gaylord at (808) 961-8050. The mailing address for Department of Water Supply is 345 Kekuanaoa Street, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720.

Members of the public may submit data in writing prior to the hearing to the Chairman of the Water Board of the County of Hawai‘i. Submissions made to the Chairman prior to the date of the hearing shall be mailed or delivered to the Chairman in care of the Department of Water Supply, 345 Kekuanaoa Street, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720.

Members of the public may also submit their data, views or arguments orally to the Water Board at the hearing.

If accommodation or auxiliary aid and/or services (i.e., sign language, interpreter, large print) is required to participate in the hearing, please call 961-8050.

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Date: Wednesday, July 28, 2004

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 NOON

Place: Waimea Community Center, 65-1260 Kawaihae Rd, Kamuela

1. Call to order

2. Approval of minutes of May 26, 2004 meeting

3. Approval of addendum and/or supplemental agenda

4. Statements from the public on items listed on agenda

• Correspondence/reports/discussion

• Director’s Report (including updates on SORT Station)

• Solid Waste Division Report (including update on life of Hilo landfill, C&D landfill restrictions, and Kahuku Transfer Station)

• Wastewater Division Report (including update on proposed Sewer Connection Fee Program)

6. Unfinished Business

• Discussion and recommendation on Department of Environmental Management Rules

• Discussion and recommendation on Ordinance for the Department of Environmental Management to establish a process for enforcement and for appeals to be heard by the Environmental Management Commission and alternate ordinance for appeals to be heard by the Board of Appeals

• Discussion and recommendation on proposed Capacity Assessment Fee Ordinance (revised)

• Discussion and recommendation on Mandatory Recycling for Haulers

7. New Business

• Election of Officers

8. Future Agenda Items

9. Announcements

• August meeting cancelled.

• September 22, 2004, 9 a.m. – 12 noon, Kona Police Department Conference Room, 74-5221 Queen Ka`ahumanu Highway, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

• October meeting cancelled.

• November 23, 2004, 9 a.m. – 12 noon, Liquor Control Conference Room, Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Hilo, Hawai`i 96720

• December meeting cancelled.

10. Adjournment

If you require an accommodation or auxiliary aid and/or services to participate in this meeting (i.e. sign language interpreter, large print), please call 961-8083.

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• Are you having problems flushing your toilet?

• Do you get zapped when you unplug something?

• Are you required to hook up to the County sewer system?

The answer may be the Residential Emergency Repair Program (RERP) from the County of Hawai`i Office of Housing and Community Development.

The Residential Emergency Repair Program (RERP) is a 3% simple interest deferred loan program for low- and moderate-income families. The loan is for emergency home repairs.

Principal and interest payments are deferred for 15 years, at such time full payment is due and payable. The loan amount is a minimum of $2,500 to a maximum $25,000. The members of the household cannot make more than 80% of the median income.

For a detailed brochure on the Residential Emergency Repair Program, visit co.hawaii.hi.us/directory/dir_housing and click on Residential Emergency Repair Program.

For further information or an application, call the Office of Housing and Community Development at 961-8379.

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Or call our 24/7 Job Hotline: 961-8618

Click on employment opportunities to download all of the forms.

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• Department of the Attorney General
• Real Estate Education Fund / Hawaii Real Estate Commission

• Hawaii Association of REALTORS^®

• Office of Housing and Community Development, Hawaii County
• Office of the Prosecuting Attorney, Hawaii County
• Department of the Prosecuting Attorney, Maui

Chronic drug house activity is a major cause of neighborhood decay and most drug house activity is on rental property. The Landlord Training Program is designed to help owners and property managers keep illegal drug activity and other criminal activity off their property.

Date: July 19, 2004 at the Outrigger Waikoloa

Cost: $20 per person (due at time of registration)

Effective property management can have a major impact on the health of a community. There are legitimate techniques which can be used to stop the spread of drug activity on rental property. The training includes:

• The role of the landlord
• Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
• Applicant Screening
• Rental Agreements
• Ongoing Management
• Resident Involvement/Community Building
• Warning Signs of Drug Activity
• Crisis Resolution
• Working with the Police
• Section 8 (Subsidized Housing)

Included with the training is a comprehensive manual, complete with applicable laws and references.

This course has been approved for six hours of Hawaii Real Estate CE elective credits (two elective CE credits). Additional fee: $15.

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The public is invited to attend a video conference meeting to continue work on solutions for rodent control, as well as dog and cat owner responsibility issues. We will also be discussing the responsibilities of an Animal Control Officer.

When: July 8th from noon – 1pm

Where: Hilo Prosecutors Office, Kealakehe and Waimea Police Stations.

For further information visit www.solutionsislandhawaii.com or contact Nancy Zorn at 328-9931 or nnzorn@yahoo.com  

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This workshop will share current research findings on the effects of prenatal methamphetamine exposure on infants and children. The speaker, Dr. Chris Derauf, will discuss these findings vis a vis how child development is affected by toxic exposures, and by both supportive and challenging environmental conditions. The presentation will include strategies for helping children beset by significant challenges very early in life.

Dr. Chris Derauf is a pediatrician who serves on the staff of the Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women and Children (KMCWC) in Honolulu. He is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the John A. Burns School of Medicine at the University of Hawai‘i, and Director of the UH Pediatric Residency Program and the Koko‘okolu Community Pediatrics Fellowship.

His research and publications focus on preventive health topics, as well as alcohol and drug use during pregnancy. He is the Hawai‘i Principal Investigator for a National Institutes of Health study of the developmental consequences of prenatal methamphetamine exposure.

Free parking on campus during the summer.

Admission is free. However, prior registration is required because space is limited. To register, call 974-4291.

For more information, contact Department of Health’s Malama A Ho`opili Pono Project at 974-4291 or vmstoddard@earthlink.net  

Co-sponsored by the Malama A Ho`opili Pono Consortium and the University of Hawai`i at Hilo BSN Program.

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Our next islandwide Hugs Not Drugs IV sign waving is set for July 20 from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. This time we'll be featuring a sign contest for our school kids and prizes will be given to 4 winners around the island.

The debut Hugs Not Drugs Sign Contest is for kids in grades K-12. Entries should include the words "Hugs Not Drugs". Winning signs will be colorful, creative, and original.

To see our flyer click on www.solutionsislandhawaii.com . The following sign waving sites are on board; if you wish to add to the list or for further information contact Lil Beaufrere at 325-0039 or email konalil@hawaii.rr.com

Kailua Village-Kona 4-5:30: Palani and Queen Ka`ahumanu. Info: Jan Rae (325-4991) janiamone@aol.com

Kailua Village-Kona 3-5pm: Entrance of University of Nations on Kuakini Hwy. Info: Eva Fillekes (937-0548) or konaoutreach@uofnkona.edu  

Kealakekua 3-6pm: Mauka of Konawaena Elementary School. Info: Chris Matsuoka (987-4510) or paikona@yahoo.com

Keauhou Shopping Center 4-6pm: Ali`i Drive Entrance. Info: Mara Amone (324-6000) or rohanahalehi@aol.com

Ka`u - Na`alehu 3-5pm: Highway 11- Methodist Church. Info: Colleen Gundakers (929-9308) or gundakers@msn.com

Napoopoo 3-5pm: Napoopoo & Puuhonua Rds Info: Louise Winn (640-1454) or swinn@hawaii.rr.com

Ocean View 3-5pm: Hwy 11 between Hawaii and Lehua Roads. Info: Bob Barry (929 8784) or barry@hialoha.com

Pahala 3-6pm: In Town. Info: Carla Andrade (928-6268) or kauroyal@gte.net

Waikoloa 4-6pm: Paniolo Drive near Waikoloa Village Marketplace. Info: Jan Sears 883-0583 & Laurie Jo Rogers 883-1018

Waimea 3-5:30pm: Historic Church Row Park. Info: Angela Thomas (990-6754) or act216@hotmail.com 

Hilo Bay Front Chevron – Ironworks 3-6pm. Info: Char Merritt (937-2124) or csnm@hotmail.com  or Henry Wana (938-5750)

Hilo: Kanoelehua Ave. fronting Kamaaina Nissan 4-6pm. Info: Jay Ignacio (969-0224) jignacio@hei.com  or Sue Akim Seu (969-0127) sakimseu@hei.co

Hilo KTA Superstore Hwy 11 4-6pm. Rotary Clubs of East Hawai`i. Info: Nancy Cabral (935-4152) or ncabral@daylum.com

Honoka`a 3:30-5:30pm : T Kaneshiro Store corner. Info: Phyllis Tarail & Joel Cohen (775-1306) or waipiohi@interpac.net

Honoka`a 3-5pm: Kings Chapel across from Tex Drive In. Info: Donna Acdal (775-0225) or lighthouseatcamp8@yahoo.com

Kea`au 2:30-5pm: Entrance to Shipment Park. Info: Kehau Sloan (960-3065) or kehau@turquoise.net

Laupahoehoe 3-5:00pm: Train Museum. Info: Lucille Chung (934-0203) or lchung@qlcc.org

O`okala: Intersection fronting O`okala Gym. Info: Valarie Poindexter (962-0056) or valariepoindexter@msn.com

Pahoa 3-6pm: Pahoa High School and at the Welcome to Pahoa Town Sign. Info: Randy Like (982-9555) or kaipolike@hotmail.com

Pahoa 4-5pm: At intersection of Hwy 130 & Leilani Ave. Info: Roberta Hole (965-0330) or donutlady@intergate.com 

Papa`aloa 3-5:30pm: At the 24 mile marker. Info: Lucille Chung (934-0203) or lchung@qlcc.org

Puna: Entrance Ainaloa Subdivision Hwy 130. 3-5:30pm Info: Audrey Eskelson (982-5636) or resehi@msn.com

Volcano Village 3:30-5:30pm: Between Akasuka Store Hwy 11 - entrance of Golf Course. Info: Betsy Mitchell (967-7209)

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The U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) presents a free two-day grant writing workshop. This event is hosted by the Office of Housing & Community Development and will feature Cheryl Appline, Program Manager with HUD’s Center for Faith-Based & Community Initiatives, Washington, D.C.

Learn how to prepare a COMPETITIVE grant application.

Topics will include:

• How to access government funds

• Grant proposal writing techniques

• HUD’s grant programs

• Grant Management

Hilo: July 26 - 27, 2004

8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Hilo Hawaiian Hotel (Mokuola Room)

Kona: July 29 - 30, 2004

8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel (Kamakahonu Room)

(Registration check-in: 8:00 - 8:30 a.m.)

Advanced registration is required. SPACE IS LIMITED – First come, first served.

To register, contact Ramona Mullahey at 522-8185, x249 or ramona_mullahey@hud.gov

Information required for registration:

• Name

• Organization

• Mailing address

• Phone number

• Email address

Limit of two (2) persons per organization. Confirmation of registration will be by Email. Please bring confirmation notice to training workshop. Bring your own lunch.

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Back by popular demand! High-quality free mulch is now available at the new public pick-up area adjacent to the Kealakehe Transfer Station. The access to the new mulch pick-up area is directly across the street from the transfer station chutes. Residents may self-load mulch at the site from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., seven days a week. Bring a pitchfork and help yourself.

Plenty of free mulch is also available at the Hilo Transfer Station which is open 7 days a week, 7:00am-5:00pm. The green waste pick-up and drop-off area is just past the entrance to the transfer station chutes on the right-hand side of the road.

The County of Hawai`i’s Department of Environmental Management sponsors the free mulch program. At this time, loading assistance for small vehicles is available only at the Hilo location and fees range from $10-$40 depending on vehicle size.

If you want to arrange for a large truckload to be delivered to your residence, business, or farm, from either the Hilo or Kona green waste processing sites, please call the Big Island Recycling representative at (808) 306-1876 to make those arrangements.

For more information about this program, please contact the County’s Recycling Coordinator at 961-8942.

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The public is cordially invited to attend free educational presentations about ocean issues in Kona and Waimea in July and August.

Dr. Bill Walsh, State Division of Aquatic Resources, West Hawaii, will provide the almost-final data results of a five year research study of protected areas along the West Hawaii coast. This study, carried out by UH Hilo and DAR provides insights never before recorded. Are colorful fish returning? The answer is fascinating. Sponsored by UH Sea Grant and the Malama Kai Foundation. For further information call 329-2861.

Dr. Bob Palmer, former Bureau Chief of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, will share a manager's experience when gill nets were banned in Florida. Dr. Robert Muller, Research Assistant, Stock Assessment and Modeling Group, Florida Marine Research Institute, will report on how the fish populations were effected after gill nets were banned. Sponsored by UH Sea Grant and the Malama Kai Foundation. For further information call 329-2861.

Our Hawaiian seals’ biology, the problems they face in recovery, actions taken to prevent further declines, and past and expected future population trends in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands will be presented by Dr. Bill Gilmartin. He will also discuss what is going on with monk seals on the inhabited islands. Gilmartin initiated the monk seal recovery program in 1980 and managed it until 1996. He is currently a member of the Hawaiian Monk Sea Recovery Team and the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef Ecosystem Reserve Advisory Council. Free, sponsored by UH Sea Grant and the Malama Kai Foundation. For further information call 329-2861.

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In conjunction with the Third Annual Kalae Iki Baseball Camp, July 25-27 at the Kailua-Kona Baseball Field, several of the participating coaches will hold a coaching clinic on Saturday, July 24 at the Hapuna Prince Hotel.

Among the coaches making presentations will be Gary Adams (UCLA), Mark Marquess (Stanford), Lindsey Meggs (Chico St.), Dave Esquer (California), Jason Green (UCLA), Tom Kunis (Stanford) and former Major League stars Doug DeCinces and Tim Leary.

This 4-hour free clinic will begin at 10 a.m. in the Hau Lehua Room.

Reservations are requested by calling Joey Estrella at UH-Hilo, 974-7700. Each attendee will receive a booklet of clinic notes.

This clinic, along with the Kalae Iki Youth Baseball Camp, is a result of the generous sponsorship of the foundations of Jack Gifford and of Betty Kanuha, and the County of Hawaii Parks & Recreation Division.

Third Annual Kalae Iki Baseball Camp in Kona July 25-27

Boys and girls aged 7-17 years wishing to participate in the Kalae Iki camp may register at the following County of Hawaii Parks & Recreation sites: Permits Office at Aquatics Center in Kailua-Kona, Auntie Sally’s Luau House in Hilo, Waikoloa Park (Elem. School), and Waimea Park (Parker Gym).

All clinics are free of charge.

For further information call: Joey Estrella at 974-7700

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Renowned chefs, delicious cuisine and entertainment will star at the sixth annual Evening in Paradise, a fundraiser for Hawaii Island United Way on Saturday, July 24 at The Fairmont Orchid from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

This is the largest single-event fundraiser for the HIUW, and is held under starry summer skies at The Fairmont Orchid’s oceanfront lawn at Turtle Pointe. The price for An Evening in Paradise is $75 per adult; $40 for children ages five to 12. Children under five are free.

Tickets can be purchased at the HIUW website at www.HawaiiUnitedWay.org ; The Fairmont Orchid’s concierge desk; Waikoloa Village Market; KTA Super Stores in Kailua-Kona, Keauhou, Waimea and Puainako; First Hawaiian Bank branches in Kailua-Kona, Kamuela and Waikoloa; Kamuela Liquors, Kona Wine Market; and Border’s in Hilo and Kailua-Kona, or by contacting the Hilo United Way Office at 935-6393.

Lyman Medeiros, a popular Big Island radio personality and television host, and Karen Kay, KBIG’s afternoon-drive radio personality, will emcee the event. Homegrown Hilo "baby-boomers" band Mid-Life Crisis will liven up the evening with nostalgic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s.

Funds raised through this event will help 33 participating agencies and numerous donor-choice agencies that provide health and human services island wide. Last year, An Evening in Paradise raised more than $42,000 for HIUW. The overall campaign goal for 2004 is $1,470,000. For more information about HIUW and its agencies, visit www.HawaiiUnitedWay.org .

This year’s event will feature the following Big Island chefs: The Fairmont Orchid’s Chef James Babian, Sushi Master Norio Yamamoto and Pastry Chef Linda Rodriguez; Daniel Thiebaut of Daniel Thiebaut Restaurant; Merriman’s Chef Mike Halpin; Seafood Bar’s Chef Matthew Small; Kawaihae Harbor Grill’s Chef Aaron Barfield; Chef Etsuji Umezu of Hualalai Resort; Chef Edwin Goto of Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows; Chef Graham Quayle of the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai; Chef Piet Wigmans of the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel and Mauna Kea Resort; Waikoloa Beach Marriott’s Chef Miles Togikawa; and Chef Wilhelm Pirngruber of the Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort.

For special An Evening in Paradise kama’aina room rates, please call The Fairmont Orchid at 885-2000 or toll free, 1-800-845-9905.

For reservations please call 1-800-441-1414, or visit us online at www.fairmont.com .

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Join the celebration of The Arc of Hilo’s 50^th Anniversary on Sunday, July 25, 2004 from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at The Arc of Hilo, 1099 Waianuenue Ave. (across from Hilo Medical Center).

Featuring:

* The 12th Annual "Forever Young" Fashion Show

* a Succulent Prime Rib Buffet by Nani Mau Gardens

* an Exciting Silent Auction featuring artwork by prominent local artists, plus

* a Special Appearance by Melveen Leed

Tickets are $30 per person, of which $5 is tax-deductible.

For tickets call The Arc of Hilo, 935-8535 ext. 10.

For more information contact: Charmaine Ka-ipo, The Arc of Hilo, Phone 935-8535 ext. 17.

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Showcasing the splendor of Polynesian cultural tradition, the Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association (HCRA) and the Kekua Foundation take great pride in hosting the 11th International Va‘a Federation (IVF) World Sprints Championship at Hilo Bay in Hilo August 9-15, 2004.

The World Sprints Championship is the foremost event on the international outrigger canoe racing calendar. More than 2,000 participant paddlers are expected, with 5,000 or more spectators and worldwide media exposure.

Entrants are expected from as many as 22 countries.

Founded by the Tahitians, the first World Va’a Sprints was held in 1984 at Newport Beach, California.

During the August 9-15 events, races and practice will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily, at Bayfront Beach Park with three evening events from 7:00 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Edith Kanakaole Multipurpose Tennis Stadium.

According to organizers, Hilo provides excellent sprint conditions, with its protected harbor and races running parallel to the shore. Viewers will be able to watch races from start to finish.

Based on a commitment to encourage and preserve outrigger canoe racing and to promote international Ho‘okuku. (competition), the organizers seek to present a unique event that is rich in meaning, filled with activities designed to perpetuate, enhance and raise the sport to extraordinary, memorable, even legendary levels.

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The Waimea Community Association will sponsor a non-partisan candidate debate on Thursday, September 9 from 5:30 p.m at the YMCA’s Kahilu Town Hall.

The debate will feature candidates for all major public offices in the area in preparation for the coming elections. No charge to attend Waimea Community meetings. Membership not required but recommended.

For further information call: John Ray (885-5875).

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(All project schedules based on weather permitting.)

(No Road Work)

Where/Location: South Hilo – Kalanikoa Street at Kekuanaoa Street (Puna side).

What: Relocate existing stop line and extend centerline.

Where/Location: South Hilo – Holomua Street, from W. Makaala Street to E. Kawili Street.

What: Layout markings for new edge-of-pavement lines and extend existing centerlines.

Where/Location: South Hilo – Holomua Street, from W. Makaala Street to E. Kawili Street and E. Kawili Street, from Manono Street to Wiwoole Street.

What: Redo centerline markings with thermoplastic.

Where/Location: South Hilo – Holomua Street, from W. Makaala Street to E. Kawili Street.

What: Install new edge-of-pavement lines with thermoplastic.

Where/Location: North Kona - King Kamehameha III Road.

What: Underground streetlight circuit work.

Where/Location: North Kona – Lanihau Street and Palani Road intersection.

What: Repair loop detectors.

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While braking, never stop suddenly unless it is an emergency. Harsh braking could result in loss of control. Be particularly careful on a wet or slippery surface to avoid skidding. If you have to brake in an emergency and the wheels lock up, ease the pressure off the foot brake to allow the wheels to turn.

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Boring and trenching work on Kaumana Drive begins on Tuesday, July 6th and is likely to cause detours and delays. Motorists are advised of lane closures and work locations as contractors work on installing a conduit system in the Kaumana area.

From Tuesday, July 6th thru Friday, July 9^th Willocks Construction will be boring and trenching in the following area:

• Along Kaumana Drive between Pu‘uhina Street and Kilua Road – Lane Closures and Lane Diversions

The work will start at 8:00 am and continue until 3:30 pm, weather permitting. Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes (Waianuenue Avenue/Akolea Road) to avoid traffic delays/congestion and to allow for extra travel time.

Future locations will be announced as the work progresses. Contractors estimate the Kaumana area project to be completed in November 2004.

Questions can be referred to Chuck Eckman (Resident Engineer), Mid State Consultants, at 640-9509.

Mahalo for your patience and cooperation.

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We encourage everyone to use web-based calendar links. Please add your own events to the respective calendars so others can get the word and not conflict with your plans.

County of Hawaii: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/cgi-bin/webcal/webcal.pl
State of Hawaii: http://www.state.hi.us/calendars.htm
Hawaii Visitors and Conventions Bureau: http://calendar.gohawaii.com/
Hawaii.com: http://www.hawaii.com/live/
Alternative-Hawaii: http://www.alternative-hawaii.com/calendar.htm
Kamuela.com: http://kamuela.com/calendar/default.asp
Hawaii Nonprofit Community Events (HCF): http://www.hcf-hawaii.org/hcf/hcfg/comcal.jsp
Hawaii Public Radio: http://www.hawaiipublicradio.org/psa.htm
Hawaii Theatre Network: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hawaiitheatre
UH at Hilo Theatre Events: http://performingarts.net/Theatre/seasoncalendar/calendar.pl
Waikoloa Village: http://www.waikoloa.org/WVCalendar.html
Public School (click on your school): http://doe.k12.hi.us/calendars0203/index.htm
Hilo Downtown Improvement: Go to www.downtownhilo.com (click on Hilo Activity Guide, and follow directions on how to submit an event.) For information call Alice Moon at 933-9772.
Prince Kuhio Plaza: http://www.princekuhioplaza.com/html/Events.asp

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