Spring 2015 - Office of Mayor Billy Kenoi

HOLOMUA
NEWS FROM THE OFFICE OF MAYOR BILLY KENOI, COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I • SPRING 2015
PROJECTS ON THE MOVE
•Puna Pulls Together In Back-To-Back Disasters
•Road Projects Islandwide Continue Momentum
•Home Ownership A Reality For Working Families
•Investment In Parks & Recreation Continue
Construction on the Kapi‘olani Street Extension in Hilo will be completed in 2016.
FROM THE OFFICE OF MAYOR BILLY KENOI, COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I
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Workers from the County, state and federal agencies, private contractors, Hawai‘i Electric Light Company, and electrical workers from across Hawai‘i
and the Continental U.S. joined forces to clear roads and restore power to Puna residents following Tropical Storm Iselle. Photo: Hawai‘i 24/7.
Puna Pulls Together In Disasters
In the face of strong winds, fallen trees, flooding that
damaged or destroyed homes, and a lava flow headed their
way, the Puna community pulled together like never before
to weather the storm in 2014.
The center of Tropical Storm Iselle made landfall
along the southeastern coast of Hawai‘i Island in the early
morning of August 8. It was the strongest storm to make
landfall on Hawai‘i Island in recorded history. Many roads
were blocked by trees and other debris after the strong
winds and heavy rains. Residents in the area with access
to power tools and heavy machinery took to the streets
soon after the passing of Iselle to begin clearing the roads,
joining a force of County and State road crews, parks
Mayor Kenoi, Civil Defense Administrator Oliveira, and the County team
consult with the Central Pacific Hurricane Center on Tropical Storm Iselle.
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crews, private contractors, and the Hawai‘i National Guard
mobilized in the effort.
Right behind the road clearing crews, workers from
Hawai‘i Electric Light Company, their counterparts on
other islands, along with contractors from as far away as
California began to work on fixing downed power lines that
at one point left 33,000 customers without power. Though
many were restored sooner, power was restored to the last
customers five weeks after the storm hit.
Community organizations, churches, companies, and
others pulled together to open relief centers to distribute
supplies to residents who may not have been able to leave
Following Tropical Storm Iselle, volunteers offered relief supplies to
residents at multiple sites around Puna, like this one in Kurtistown.
HOLOMUA • SPRING 2015
Hundreds of residents gathered to get the latest updates from the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and the County of Hawai‘i at weekly update
meetings held at Pāhoa High & Intermediate School. The meetings became forums to get questions answered and to connect community resources.
their homes or did not have electricity. A total of 39 homes
in Puna suffered major damage or were destroyed.
Not a month after Iselle made landfall, on September 4,
the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory raised the volcano alert
level from watch to warning, reporting that a lava flow from
Kīlauea’s Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō vent was within .8 miles of the Wao Kele
O Puna Forest Reserve and headed toward Pāhoa. The flow
threatened to destroy businesses and homes, and cross
Highway 130, blocking the only major access in and out of
Lower Puna. Once again, the community worked together to
take preventative measures in assuring safety for all those
threatened by another natural disaster.
Kapoho to Hawaiian Paradise Park, and Chain of Craters
Road from Kalapana to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
The Pāhoa Senior Center, formerly a fire station, was
converted back into a fire station to ensure that residents
on both sides of the anticipated flow would have the same
level of service from our first responders. Mayor Billy
Kenoi, Civil Defense Administrator Darryl Oliveira, and the
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory held regular community
meetings to keep residents updated and address concerns.
With unprecedented efficiency, County crews and
contractors prepared three emergency roadways – Railroad
Avenue from Nānāwale to Hawaiian Beaches and on to
Hawaiian Paradise Park, Government Beach Road from
Thankfully, the flow stalled before getting to Pāhoa
Village Road and the highway beyond. Lava did enter the
Pāhoa Transfer Station, which has since been repaired and
reopened. ‘Āpa‘a Street was cut off just beyond the transfer
station. One home was destroyed, a cemetery covered, and
lava entered other properties. Between both disasters, no
lives were lost on Hawai‘i Island – a testament to the power
of community pulling together.
Weekly meetings with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and the County
of Hawai‘i at Pāhoa High & Intermediate School drew capacity crowds.
Civil Defense Administrator Oliveira updated residents on the progress
of lava preparations at weekly community meetings held in Pāhoa.
FROM THE OFFICE OF MAYOR BILLY KENOI, COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I
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CONNECTING OUR
COMMUNITIES
Between recently completed road projects like La‘aloa Avenue
and current projects like Kapi‘olani Street and the Māmalahoa
Highway Bypass, our island is better connected than ever before.
La‘aloa Avenue in Kona, a much-needed mauka-makai connector road between Ali‘i Drive and the highway above, was opened in January 2015.
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HOLOMUA • SPRING 2015
Mayor Billy Kenoi joined other dignitaries to break ground for Hilo’s Kapi‘olani Street Extension in March 2015.
Before La‘aloa was
Since taking office
completed, the nearest
in 2008, Mayor Billy
mauka-makai accesses were
Kenoi’s administration has
Royal Poinciana Drive to
completed many major
Lako Street to the north, and
road projects with more
King Kamehameha III Road
to come. Together with an
in Keauhou to the south.
unprecedented expansion
The project was a top priority
of our island’s mass transit
of the Kona Community
system and seven new
Development Plan.
roadways built in the last
seven years, travel is now
South of La‘aloa, the
safer, faster, and more
Work continues on Kamehameha Avenue in Hilo.
$27.9 million southern
accessible – keeping our
segment of the Māmalahoa Highway Bypass will provide
communities better connected than ever before.
relief to motorists traveling in South Kona. The roadway
“Our commitment to improving our island’s
is nearly 60 years in the making, first contemplated in a
planning document in 1960.
transportation infrastructure isn’t just about buses and
roads,” Mayor Kenoi said. “It’s about helping people get to
The bypass is located midway between the shoreline
their destination quickly and safely so they can spend more
time with their families and less time frustrated in traffic.”
and Māmalahoa Highway. The bypass starts at the southern
edge of Keauhou and currently runs 3.5 miles to the
bottom of Haleki‘i Street below Kealakekua’s Kona Scenic
The most recently completed road project was a $12.2
subdivision. When complete in 2016, the southern segment
million extension of Kona’s La‘aloa Avenue, a critically
needed mauka-makai connector road to improve circulation of the bypass will extend the roadway another 2.2 miles
and facilitate orderly evacuations in emergency situations.
from Kealakekua to a new signalized intersection with
Māmalahoa Highway in Nāpo’opo‘o.
The 1,900 foot extension, complete with sidewalks and
bicycle lanes for safe multi-modal travel, connected Ali‘i
A large portion of the South Kona community works
Drive with Kuakini Highway mauka. The roadway opened
this January.
in either North Kona or South Kohala and commutes daily
FROM THE OFFICE OF MAYOR BILLY KENOI, COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I
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CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITIES
GETTING IT DONE
Since 2008, the County
has embarked on
$158 million in roadway
projects islandwide.
Some highlights:
Ane Keohokālole Highway,
Kona
New Road - $29.9 million
Māmalahoa Highway Bypass,
South Kona
A view of the Māmalahoa Highway Bypass southern segment, which will run from Haleki‘i Street to
the Nāpo‘opo‘o junction when completed in 2016.
along Māmalahoa Highway. The two-lane bypass gives motorists an alternate
route between North and South Kona. Opening this bypass was one of Mayor
Kenoi’s priorities upon taking office in December 2008.
Meanwhile in Hilo, construction continues on the $13.6 million Kapi‘olani
Street Extension. Contemplated in County planning documents as early as 1967,
this long-awaited connection between Mohouli and Lanikāula Streets will improve
traffic flow on Kīlauea Avenue and Kino‘ole Street, connect Waiākea High School
and the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo to the Downtown end of Hilo, and open up
new land for the University to grow.
Ground was broken in March, and the project is expected to be completed
in mid-2016. The project will include sidewalks, bike lanes, and turn lanes and
traffic signals at the new road’s intersections with Mohouli and Lanikāula Streets.
New Road - $28 million
Ka‘iminani Drive, Kona
Reconstruction - $26.7 million
Kapi‘olani Street, Hilo
Extension - $13.6 million
Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo
Reconstruction - $13.2 million
La‘aloa Avenue, Kona
Extension - $12.2 million
Manono Street, Hilo
Improvements - $5 million
Māmalahoa Highway,
Waimea
Widening - $4.5 million
Kīlauea Avenue, Hilo
Resurfacing - $2.4 million
Kalōpā Sand Gulch Bypass,
Hāmākua
New Road - $2.5 million
Ponahawai Street, Hilo
Resurfacing - $1.2 million
The newest three buses of the Hele-On fleet were blessed in March.
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HOLOMUA • SPRING 2015
EXISTING PĀHOA
COMMUNITY AQUATIC
CENTER
NEW KEIKI
PLAYGROUND
PĀ H O A T O W N
NEW HIGH SCHOOL
BASEBALL FIELD
KAUHALE STREE
T
EXISTING PĀHOA
SENIOR CENTER
NEW COVERED
PLAYCOURTS
NEW CONCESSION
& RESTROOMS
NEW
RESTROOMS
NEW YOUTH
BASEBALL &
SOFTBALL
FIELD
NEW MULTI-USE
FIELD
NEW MULTI-USE
FIELD
EXISTING PĀHOA
COMMUNITY CENTER
EXISTING SKATE PARK
EXISTING KEIKI
PLAYGROUND
A rendering shows the features of the first phase of the Pāhoa District Park, expanding recreational opportunities for the families of Lower Puna.
Pāhoa District Park Construction
Leads Projects Islandwide
After pausing in late 2014 due
to the Puna Lava Flow, construction
resumed in April on the $22.3 million,
29 acre first phase of the Pāhoa
District Park. The project is just one
of the County’s park projects going on
islandwide.
“Our commitment to the families of
Puna and all of Hawai‘i Island remains
strong,” said Mayor Billy Kenoi. “One
of our priorities has always been to
create more safe places for our kids to
stay active and healthy. In collaboration
with our Hawai‘i County Council, we are
pleased to move forward with this project that will provide
access to positive recreation for Hawai‘i Island’s fastestgrowing community.”
Fulfilling the County of Hawai‘i’s pledge to expand
healthy recreational opportunities for the families of Lower
Puna, construction resumed after the lava flow threat level
was downgraded, and after consultation with the Hawaiian
FROM THE OFFICE OF MAYOR BILLY KENOI, COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I
Volcano Observatory and Hawai‘i County
Civil Defense.
When complete, this 29-acre first
phase of the Pāhoa District Park will
include a covered play court building, two
baseball fields, two multipurpose fields, a
playground, concession building, comfort
station, accessible walkways, and ample
parking. These features will complement
Pāhoa’s existing recreational facilities that
include the Pāhoa Community Aquatic
Center, Pāhoa Neighborhood Facility, and
Pāhoa Skate Park.
The park is also adjacent to the Pāhoa Senior Center,
which reverted to its previous use as a fire station during
the lava flow threat. That facility is being converted back
into a senior center, housing much-needed senior activities
for kūpuna in Lower Puna.
The Puna Community Development Plan, adopted by
the Hawai‘i County Council in 2008, identified the need
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PARK CONSTRUCTION CONTINUES
GETTING IT DONE
Since 2008, the County has embarked on
$72.5 million in parks projects islandwide.
New Parks & Facilities
Kamakoa Nui Park
Ka‘ū District Gym & Shelter
Machado Acres Park
Pāhoa District Park
Pana‘ewa Covered Playcourts
Rose Andrade Correia Stadium
New Playgrounds
Gilbert Carvalho Park
Hawaiian Beaches Park
Honoka‘a Gym
Isaac K. Hale Beach Park
Kailua Park
William Lunalilo Playground
Mauna Kea Recreation Area
Since assuming responsibility for Mauna Kea Recreation Area on July 1, 2014, the County has improved restrooms, parking areas, picnic areas, and landscaping at the only rest stop along the cross-island Daniel K. Inouye Highway.
for a district park in Lower Puna. A comprehensive planning
process involving the community, the County, and project
designers began in 2012 to ensure these new facilities reflect
the recreational needs of Puna’s residents.
The Pāhoa District Park is just one of the Department
of Parks & Recreation’s projects completed or in progress,
totalling $72.5 million since the Kenoi administration took
office. Since 2008, six brand new parks and facilities have
been built on Hawai‘i Island, including Kamakoa Nui Park,
Machado Acres Park, Pana‘ewa Covered Play Courts and the
Rose Andrade Correia Stadium in Honoka‘a.
The covered 1,200-seat Rose Andrade Correia Stadium
replaced the old Honoka‘a Rodeo Arena bleachers that were
exposed to the elements. The $3.1 million project completed
in 2014 also included replacement of the comfort station and
judges’ stand, improvements to the pavilion, a new concession
stand, and ramps and parking spaces to make the facility fully
accessible to people with disabilities.
The Kohanaiki Beach Park is a prime example of
government, business, and community working together to
get things done. The park’s opening in 2013 was the result
of years of collaboration between lineal descendants of the
area, community groups, the County of Hawai‘i, and Kohanaiki
Shores. Situated along 1.5 miles of coastline, Kohanaiki is
one of North Kona’s most popular surfing, diving and camping
areas. The park now includes restrooms and showers,
designated camping areas, a hālau for cultural practices,
parking, and improved roadways to and along the shoreline
and within the park.
In addition to new parks and facilities, the County moved
forward in projects to maintain and refurbish existing facilities.
Perhaps the best known tennis stadium in Hawai‘i for its role
as home of the Merrie Monarch Festival, the Edith Kanaka‘ole
Stadium in Hilo got $3.4 million in upgrades, including a new
dressing and restroom building to support the world-renowned
hula festival and the many graduations and community events
held at the facility.
KAILUA PARK PLAYGROUND
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The upgrades were part of a $4 million project to revitalize
the Ho‘olulu Complex, which includes the Afook-Chinen Civic
Auditorium, Aunty Sally Kaleohano’s Lū‘au Hale, and multiple
support buildings. Other County facilities that were improved
include the Waiākea Recreation Center in Hilo, the Sgt.
Rodney J. T. Yano Memorial Hall in Captain Cook, the Pāhala
Community Center in Ka‘ū, North Kohala Senior Center, and
more.
The County also took on the responsibility of the 20.5
acre Mauna Kea Recreation Area from the state in 2014.
With the recently completed improvements to the Daniel K.
Inouye Highway between East and West Hawai‘i, a clean, safe
rest stop midway for our residents and visitors alike became
more important than ever. Since assuming the responsibility,
crews renovated existing restrooms and the parking lot, and
improvements were made to the grounds. Ongoing projects
include the construction of new restrooms and a playground.
Renovations to the cabins and support buildings are expected
to be completed in 2016.
GILBERT CARVALHO PARK PLAYGROUND
HOLOMUA • SPRING 2015
Improved Parks & Facilities
Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium
A.J. Watt Gym
‘Alae Cemetery
Aunty Sally Kaleohano’s
Lū‘au Hale
Cooper Center
Edith Kanaka‘ole Stadium
Gilbert Carvalho Park
Hawaiian Beaches Park
Honoka‘a Gym
Honoka‘a Tennis Courts
Honomū Gym
Ho‘olulu Butler Buildings
Ikuo Hisaoka Gym
Kamehameha Park
Kēōkea Beach Park
Kula‘imano Park &
Community Center
Laupāhoehoe Senior Center
Lincoln Park Tennis Courts
Mauna Kea Recreation Area
Mo‘oheau Park
FROM THE OFFICE OF MAYOR BILLY KENOI, COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I
Mountain View Park
Pāhoa Neighborhood Facility
Pana‘ewa Park
Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo
Shipman Park
Waiākea Uka Park
Mountain View Park
Nā‘ālehu Park &
Community Center
North Kohala Senior Center
Pa‘auilo Gym Annex
Pāhala Ballfield
Pāhala Community Center
Pāhoa Community Aquatic
Center
Pāhoa Senior Center
Pana‘ewa Equestrian Center
Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo
Pāpa‘aloa Park
Pāpa‘ikou Park & Gym
Pi‘ihonua Gym
Punalu‘u Park
Reed’s Bay Beach Park
University Heights Park
Waiākea Recreation Center
Waiākea Uka Park & Gym
Waimea Park
Yano Hall
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One of the first four homes to be completed in Kamakoa Nui, the County of Hawai‘i’s workforce housing community in Waikoloa Village.
Home Ownership Becomes A Reality
For Working Families At Kamakoa Nui
A project once mired in years of controversy and litigation is welcoming
families home - 31 so far, with another 60 homes on the way.
For Gerry Durante and Shyanne Parong, the dream of
owning a home for their growing family close to their jobs
at the South Kohala resorts couldn’t have come true at a
better time. The apartment they were renting was fine until
their second child joined the family, when the space crunch
set in and being close to home became more important
than ever. “We were interested in this project since the early
stages. It’s been a long process, but we’re glad it’s done,”
Parong said. “We finally have a place to call home.”
Durante and Parong’s ‘ohana were one of the first four
families to move into homes at Kamakoa Nui in December
2013. Kamakoa Nui is a workforce housing project in
Waikoloa Village built by the County, offering affordable
homes near the South Kohala resorts to allow employees
who are first-time homeowners the opportunity to live near
their places of employment, lessening commutes and
allowing them to spend more time with their families.
A workforce housing project in Waikoloa had been a
goal of the County’s since 2005. When Mayor Billy Kenoi’s
administration took office in 2008, the project was stalled,
under legal scrutiny, and with much higher projected
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home prices. The project was thoroughly re-thought and
brought to fruition. The sitework, first model homes, and the
community park were completed in 2011 with sales of new
homes beginning in 2012. There are currently 31 families in
homes at Kamakoa Nui, with another 60 homes to come.
Fee-simple homes at Kamakoa Nui, priced between
$235,000 and $350,000, are being offered to resident
families with incomes of no more than 140 percent of the
area median household income. For a family of four, that
comes out to $97,440. Additionally, Habitat For Humanity
will purchase four lots at Kamakoa Nui, allowing families
with even lower average monthly incomes to be able to
afford homes.
In April 2014, Mayor Billy Kenoi joined the community
to celebrate three-quarter mile long extension of Paniolo
Avenue – another new road in West Hawai’i, and the
fulfillment of a long-standing promise. The road was built by
landowner Waikoloa Heights Land Investors, which agreed
to complete the project at the County’s request. The road
extends from the Ho‘okō Street traffic light at Waikoloa
School to Kamakoa Nui.
HOLOMUA • SPRING 2015
County of Hawai‘i
Offers Home Repair
Loans
Gerry Durante, Shyanne Parong and their keiki were among the first families to move into brand new
houses at Kamakoa Nui. Managing Director Wally Lau, right, presented them with their keys.
The extension of Paniolo Avenue was first promised in 1988, when thenlandowner Transcontinental Development deeded to the County 300 acres to meet
an affordable housing requirement for Waikoloa Beach Resort. That agreement
included a requirement that Paniolo Avenue be extended within five years. The
obligation passed to the present landowner in July 1990.
As the first homes were built in Kamakoa Nui, the County expressed to
Waikoloa Heights Land Investors the need for the Paniolo Avenue extension. In
the years ahead, the road will be widened to a four-lane road with connections to
Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway and Kawaihae Road.
Kamakoa Nui is one of three major housing projects completed by the Kenoi
administration in West Hawai‘i, providing options for people in all parts of the
housing spectrum. The West Hawai‘i Emergency Shelter addressed an urgent
need when it opened in October 2010. The 31-bed shelter provides services to
help the homeless stabilize and get ready for self-sufficiency. It offers employment
and housing search assistance, budgeting and life skills training and other classes
along with guidance to help them connect with off-site community resources.
For families ready to make the transition into more permanent shelter, the
County dedicated the first phase of The Homes at Ulu Wini in November 2011.
Located in Honokōhau Mauka above the Kaloko Industrial Area, Ulu Wini is a
unique complex that combines low-income rental units with units for homeless
families who can stay as long as two years for a fee or in-kind services as
determined on a case-by-case basis.
Taking care of the most vulnerable in our community has always been a
priority for Mayor Kenoi’s administration. “It’s not about plumbing or electrical or
construction,” Mayor Kenoi said. “It’s about children who can come home after
school and not be embarrassed about where they live, or where they lay down at
night, that our kūpuna can feel good that their families are safe and healthy.”
FROM THE OFFICE OF MAYOR BILLY KENOI, COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I
The Office of Housing and
Community Development is
currently accepting applications
to the Residential Emergency
Repair Program. The program
was established in 1997
to make low interest loans
available to low-and moderateincome homeowners who
are interested in repairing
and improving their primary
residence.
The loan can be used
for roof repairs, electrical
and plumbing work, sewer
improvements, termite
treatment and damages caused
by termites or wood rot and
the installation of a solar water
heating system. Loans range
from $2,500 to $25,000 at
3% interest. Loan payments are
deferred for 15 years, at which
time full payment will be due.
Applicants 62 years or older or
with special needs may have
30% of the principal balance of
the loan forgiven as a grant.
For more information or
an application packet contact
Brandi Ah Yo at 959-4642.
Application packets can also
be found on-line at http://www.
hawaiicounty.gov/office-ofhousing.
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Ho‘omaika‘i!
All of the County of Hawai‘i’s success in continuing to deliver services to our communities is a
result of the hard work and dedication of our employees. These employees have been recognized in
January through March 2015 for their service, promotion, conclusion of a career, or joining the ‘ohana.
New Hires
David Alvarez, Videoconferencing Technician, County Clerk
Kari Arguello, Investigator IV, Prosecuting Attorney
Anna Arratia, Clerk III, Finance
Neil Azevedo, Highway Superintendent, Public Works
Stephanie Barnett, Victim/Witness Counselor II, Prosecuting Attorney
Amy Bautista, Legal Clerk III, Corporation Counsel
Samantha Bombaci, Clerk III, Finance
Eric Brock, Building Maintenance Worker, Parks & Recreation
Claude Caravalho, Storekeeper, Police
Lorri Ann Cardoza, FEMA Reimbursement Specialist, Public Works
Kristi Carvalho, Election Clerk I, County Clerk
Joseph Cava, Parking Control Officer, Public Works
Warren Ching, Mechanical Engineer I, Water Supply
Dionne Costa, Real Property Appraiser V, Finance
Katherine De Leon, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
Bronson Fuertes Jr, Laborer II, Public Works
Clifton Handy, Clerk III, Police
Lerisa Heroldt, Deputy Corporation Counsel
Brett Hosaka, Account Clerk, Parks & Recreation
Sara Hussey, Pool Lifeguard, Parks & Recreation
R. Kawehi Inaba, Director, Research & Development
Michelle Ishiki, Musician I, Parks & Recreation
Brittany Iyo, Clerk II, Parks & Recreation
Tiana Jarneski, Student Helper I, Public Works
Kaonohi Kahele, Election Clerk I, County Clerk
Howard John Kelly Jr, Golf Course Starter, Parks & Recreation
Brandyann Kerr, Human Resources Technician I, Environmental Management
William Lindsey Jr, Equipment Operator III, Environmental Management
Dawn Manago, Council Legislative Assistant, County Clerk
Lawrence Matsumoto Jr, Assistant Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator,
Environmental Management
Alicia Mears, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
Myla Jane Miguel, Student Helper I, Public Works
Leslie Miller-Sablan, Scale Attendant, Environmental Management
Travis Morita, Solid Waste Facilities Attendant, Environmental Management
Ricky Nakamura, Solid Waste Facilities Attendant, Environmental Management
Claire-Ann Niibu-Akau, Excel Specialist, Public Works
James Francis Nishimura, Park Caretaker I, Parks & Recreation
Grant Oie, Sr Community Services Aid, Parks & Recreation
Rodolfo Pacris, Sr Community Services Aid, Parks & Recreation
Jemy Ray Palencia, Student Helper I, Office of Management
Phillip Palmore, Musician I, Parks & Recreation
Elizabeth Lee Pau, Vehicle Registration & Licensing Assistant, Finance
William Perreira, Cold Case Evaluator, Prosecuting Attorney
Michael Polido, Help Desk Technical Support, Information Technology
Ruth Prasad, Community Service Worker I, Parks & Recreation
Jill Rapozo, Clerk III, Finance
Tommie Ravey, Student Helper I, Prosecuting Attorney
Stephan Refit, Sr Community Services Aid, Parks & Recreation
Jason Rowland, Equipment Mechanic, Fire
Nicole Saito, Student Helper I, Human Resources
Mary Salvador, Operations Clerk, Police
Mark Sawran, Assistant Water Treatment Plant Operator IV, Water Supply
Elmer Segawa, Electrician, Public Works
Loreal Simmons, Clerk III, Public Works
Michelle Scott, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
Wesley Tanigawa, Aging & Disability Information Specialist, Aging
Rebekah Taylor-Failor, Legal Clerk II, Prosecuting Attorney
Debra Trinidad, Community Service Worker III, Parks & Recreation
Samantha Walker, Legal Clerk III, Prosecuting Attorney
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Janice Watkins, Payroll Processing Supervisor, Finance
Jonathan Wong, Council Aide, County Clerk
Edward Wong Chong Jr, Equipment Operator III, Environmental Management
Tracey Yamane, Vehicle Registration & Licensing Assistant, Finance
Roblynn Yomes, Community Service Worker III, Parks & Recreation
Promotions
Hauoli Aiona to Accountant IV, Police
Cole Arrington to Fire/Hazardous Materials Specialist, Fire
Gerald Baptiste Jr to Equipment Operator, Fire
Kalawaia Chartrand to Equipment Operator III, Environmental Management
Alvin Chong III to Road Construction & Maintenance Supervisor II, Public Works
Scott Crozier to Captain, Fire
Brian Cushnie to Captain, Fire
Bradley Erece Jr to Equipment Operator I, Public Works
Celeste Hall to Support Services Supervisor, County Clerk
Juliana Holzman Escareno to Clerk III, Environmental Management
Chad Hirata to Wastewater Plant Maintenance Mechanic,
Environmental Management
Daimen Hisashima to Captain, Fire
Joshule Johnston to Pipefitter, Water Supply
Wesley Juvik to Equipment Operator, Fire
Jay Kahee to Fire/EMS Specialist II, Fire
Noble Kaili to Equipment Operator I, Public Works
Kelsie Kailiuli to Human Resources Technician I, Finance
Ka’aina Keawe to Equipment Operator, Fire
Anthony Lapenia to Road Construction & Maintenance Supervisor II,
Public Works
Jordan Maeda to Fire/EMS Specialist II, Fire
Tyler Nagamine to Equipment Operator, Fire
Shelly Ogata to Aging Program Planner III, Aging
Michael Omija to Water Plant Electrical/Electronics Supervisor, Water Supply
Daniel Perreira to Equipment Operator III, Environmental Management
Lee Ruppert to Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I,
Environmental Management
Daren Sakoda to Tree Trimming Crew Supervisor, Parks & Recreation
Ian Smith to Captain, Fire
Chad Sohriakoff to Equipment Operator, Fire
David Soo to Captain, Fire
Jeremy Tekurio to Fire/EMS Specialist II, Fire
Randall Tsue to Information Systems Analyst V, Information Technology
Sherman Viernes to Road Construction & Maintenance Supervisor II,
Public Works
Service Anniversaries
40 Years
Edward Cheplic, Planner V, Planning
Laurie Gay Machida, Subdivision Applications Clerk, Planning
Robert Yanabu, Civil Engineer V, Public Works
25 Years
Antoinette Aguiar, Clerk-Dispatcher II, Water Supply
Sarah Hata-Finley, Secretary to Boards/Commission, Planning
Patricia Nakamoto, Elections Program Administrator, County Clerk
Lenny Sugiyama, Engineering Drafting Technician V, Water Supply
20 Years
William Bergin, Captain, Fire
Bernadette Canda, Information & Assistance Clerk, Office of Aging
Mei Jayne Hirayama, Secretary, Civil Defense
HOLOMUA • SPRING 2015
Outstanding County Employees, Supervisors Recognized
The County of Hawai‘i’s 49th Annual Employee Recognition Program was held in November 2014 at Aupuni Center
in Hilo. Mayor Billy Kenoi honored and recognized 23 outstanding County of Hawai‘i employees for their dedicated
commitment to the service of the people of Hawai‘i County. Employees were honored from each department, and
three were selected as Manager, Supervisor and Employee of the Year:
Manager of the Year
Supervisor of the Year
Planning Program Manager
Planning Department
Battalion Chief
Fire Department
April Surprenant
Lance Uchida
Duane Hosaka, Staff Officer, Civil Defense
Alfred Ignacio, Equipment Operator, Fire
Doreen Jollimore, Private Secretary, Water Supply
Jeffrey Kahakua, Captain, Fire
Mark Mangibin, Equipment Operator, Fire
Randall Masutomi, Equipment Operator, Fire
Brent Matsuda, Captain, Fire
Jarrett Ozeki, Equipment Operator, Fire
Patrick Parish, Captain, Fire
Tanya-Lee Villanueva, Customer Service Representative II, Water Supply
Richard Wells, Fire/EMS Specialist II, Fire
15 Years
Nestor Guerrero, Lead Electrician, Public Works
Van Medeiros, Fire/Hazardous Materials Specialist, Fire
Brandon Nahale, Equipment Operator II, Public Works
Richard Sumada, Waterworks Controller, Water Supply
Deborah Wills, Program Planner II, Aging
10 Years
Luana Ancheta-Kauwe, Information & Assistance Clerk, Aging
Alfred Fuller III, Park Caretaker I, Parks & Recreation
Clayton Mattos, Lead Carpenter-Cabinet Maker, Public Works
Lois Nishida, Administrative Services Assistant I, Research & Development
Naomi Varize, Human Resources Technician I, Public Works
Employee of the Year
Kimberly Hashimoto
Victim/Witness Counselor II
Office of the Prosecuting Attorney
Raymond Yadao, Equipment Operator I, Public Works
Jerry Yahiku, Lead Pipefitter, Water Supply
5 Years
Mary Aken, Tax Maps & Records Supervisor I, Planning
Linh Lee, Zoning Clerk, Planning
Nicolas Los Banos, Aging & Disability Services Manager, Aging
Ramsey Young, Zoning Clerk, Planning
Retirements
Edward Awong, Road Construction & Maintenance Supervisor II, Public Works
John Ah Chong, Equipment Operator, Fire
Stephen Arnett, Administrator, Housing & Community Development
Colin Byars, Equipment Operator, Fire
Robert Gonsalves, Solid Waste Superintendent, Environmental Management
Doreen Goya, Account Clerk, Police
Paula Ann Jelsma, Police Officer II, Police
Jeffrey Kahakua, Captain, Fire
Joan Kawakone, Program Director IV (Older Adults), Parks & Recreation
Pegge Keawe, Radio Dispatcher II, Police
Joseph Richardson Jr, Laborer II, Parks & Recreation
Gabriel Sampaia, Equipment Operator III, Environmental Management
Calvin Tsugawa, Van Driver, Parks & Recreation
Marilyn Veincent, Real Property Appraiser IV, Finance
HOLOMUA is published by the Office of Hawai‘i County Mayor Billy Kenoi.
East Hawai‘i: 25 Aupuni St., Hawai‘i County Building 961-8211
West Hawai‘i: 74-5044 Ane Keohokālole Hwy., West Hawai‘i Civic Center 323-4444
FROM THE OFFICE OF MAYOR BILLY KENOI,
COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I | hawaiicountymayor.com
[email protected]
13
A kickoff celebration was held last year for the GVS Transmedia Accelerator at Honua Studios in Kaloko.
Local Media Businesses Getting Accelerated
The County of Hawai‘i made a significant investment
in growing the creative industries on Hawai‘i Island with
a partnership in the GVS Transmedia Accelerator, an
innovative business development program based at Honua
Studios in Kona.
The Accelerator, the only one of its kind in the state
and one of the first in the United States for media projects,
connects creative entrepreneurs with seed funding and
industry mentors to fully develop their creative concepts
and get ready to find investors. The initiative was recently
named one of the top 50 business
accelerators in the U.S. by the Small
Business Administration.
Over 100 entrepreneurs applied
for the first cohort in 2014, and the
application period for the 2015 cohort
will be announced soon. An advisory board of business and
entertainment industry leaders reviewed the applications
and selected five entrepreneurs based on the commercial
viability and potential of each project. Industry leaders on
the board include Mike Frank (Level 3 Communications,
Disney, Pepsi), Lance Priebe (Club Penguin) and Grant
Curtis (Spiderman, Oz: The Great & Powerful).
“I am privileged to join with a committed group of
investors, advisors and mentors to enhance and elevate
transmedia franchises in Hawai’i,” said Frank, the chairman
of the advisory board. “In doing so, we are able to showcase
the rich storytelling that is so embraced by this culture and
also create worthwhile jobs.”
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The Accelerator is a public-private partnership between
the County of Hawai‘i, the State of Hawai‘i through its
Hawai‘i Strategic Development Corporation, and Global
Virtual Studio. GVS is headed by filmmaker and Kona boy
David Cunningham, who was forced to work outside of
Hawai‘i for most of his career.
“My wife and I wanted to raise our kids in the same
environment we were fortunate to have,” said Cunningham,
best known in Hawai‘i for his independent films Beyond
Paradise and To End All Wars. “Dramatic shifts in the
entertainment industry have now
made it possible for myself and other
filmmakers to work from our home.”
Honua Studios in Kona’s Kaloko
industrial area is the home of the
Accelerator. The studio is a first of
its kind on Hawai‘i Island, approximately 12,000 square
feet, including a 6,000 square foot sound stage with green
screen capabilities. At completion, the studio will also have
full post-production capabilities with editing bays and sound
design suites. Honua Studios will have the infrastructure to
attract larger, full-scale productions to the island.
“The Accelerator is a unique opportunity for local
entrepreneurs, helping to bring our ideas to fruition,”
said Nālani Choy, one of the entrepreneurs selected for
the first cohort. “GVS has built something quite visionary
in our backyard and we are fortunate to work with David
Cunningham and his team. These projects will touch all
corners of the world.”
HOLOMUA • SPRING 2015
An employee fills his County vehicle with a diesel blend including 20% locally produced biodiesel at the County filling station in Hilo.
County Begins Using Locally Produced Biodiesel
The County of Hawai‘i has
taken another step toward
addressing our energy needs
with resources available on
Hawai‘i Island by moving to a
B20 blended biodiesel fuel to
power diesel vehicles in the
County fleet.
“The switch to B20 is an
example that the leadership in
Hawai‘i County is committed
to improving the economy, the
environment, and the health and
safety of its community,” said
Bob King, President of Big Island
Biodiesel. “County leadership
is truly walking the talk toward
sustainability. It will go a long
way to assure renewable fuel in
Hawai‘i will continue to expand.”
Biodiesel is produced
from waste vegetable oil and
fats at Big Island Biodiesel.
The Kea‘au plant, which came
The move is the latest in a
online in 2012, is equipped
series to reduce fossil fuel usage
with the latest technology that
The Big Island Biodiesel refinery in Kea‘au’s Shipman Business in County vehicles, including the
produces some of the highest
Park is producing the biodiesel for the County from waste
introduction of the first electric
quality biodiesel in the U.S.
vegetable oil and fats.
vehicles to the fleet in 2012. The
That locally produced fuel is
plug-in hybrid Chevy Volts have proven to be a great fit for
mixed with 80% traditional diesel to make the B20 blend.
Hawai‘i County, where trips can be as long as 200 miles
Since April, County vehicles that use diesel –
one way. For trips under 30 miles, the vehicles can run
solely on battery power charged by the LEED Silver-certified
including Hele-On Buses, trucks and equipment operated
West Hawai‘i Civic Center’s 250 kilowatt photovoltaic array.
by the Environmental Management and Public Works
departments, and fire trucks – have all been using the B20 A gasoline-powered generator with a nine-gallon tank
fuel. The transition required no alterations to the vehicles,
allows an additional range of 300-400 miles, depending on
topography.
tanks, or pumps.
FROM THE OFFICE OF MAYOR BILLY KENOI, COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I
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Students from Waiākea High School visited Richardson Ocean Center and learned some of the lessons of voyaging from canoe crew members.
Ocean Center Sharing Lessons Of The Sea
Richardson Ocean Park in Keaukaha
is a popular destination for residents
and visitors alike. With several pockets
of black sand beaches, a popular
surf break, breathtaking snorkeling
opportunities, numerous fish ponds,
and an abundance of marine life, the
park offers a multitude of educational
and recreational opportunities. Drawing
upon these resources, the Richardson
Ocean Center has reopened its doors
as a sustainable learning center with
a focus on Hawaiian voyaging, ocean
safety and awareness, marine science,
and aquaculture.
The center is an educational and
cultural hub for both residents and visitors to gain an
appreciation and understanding of the Hawaiian culture
and the ocean. Since the start of the program in 2014,
over 7,000 youth from schools, summer fun programs, and
non-profit organizations have participated in educational
programs at the center.
Keaukaha’s very own Polynesian sailor, navigator,
and waterman Kalani Kahalioumi is on the center’s staff,
creating curriculum and activities designed to maximize
the educational potential of the park from a cultural and
scientific standpoint. Activities offered at the center include
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water quality testing, fish and sea life
identification, touch tanks for younger
students, basic ocean awareness classes,
and voyaging/navigational classes. Other
programs that take place include the
restoration, physical up-keep, and practical
use of the loko i‘a, the fishponds in the
park. These programs allow students the
opportunity to extend learning beyond the
confines of their classroom.
Prior to the County purchasing the
site in 1973 with matching funds from the
federal Land and Water Conservation Act
Fund, the land now known as Richardson
Ocean Park belonged to Elsa and George
Richardson. They received the property as
a gift from John David Malo as a gift after a heroic effort to
get the Malo family, who had been suffering from typhoid
fever, to the hospital in Hilo with the Richardsons’ boat.
After the County purchased the property, the former
Richardson family house served as a Police substation, a
space for lifeguards, and a visitors center before its latest
transformation into an educational center.
To arrange a tour of Richardson Ocean Center for your
group, email [email protected] or
call (808) 961-8688.
HOLOMUA • SPRING 2015