Waimea Elementary and Middle School
The legislative session is almost half over. I am currently advocating for funding for Waimea Elementary School and Waimea Middle School. In particular, I am focused on funding for Thelma Parker Gymnasium renovations and improved access to the pick-up and drop off areas, in hopes to alleviate traffic congestion and improve safety. I am also working on getting equipment for the new STEAM classroom building, as well as acquiring land and improving parking lots. These upgrades and improvements will make a difference.
Waikoloa Public Library
The State Librarian is supporting the purchase of land next to the post office in Waikoloa Village for the Waikoloa Regional Library. Over the past four years, two other sites were considered and eventually deemed unsuitable. For your information, the Legislature has appropriated funds for the plans and design of the library building.
The Waikoloa Regional Library will provide our community with a much needed intergenerational gathering place that will offer us and visitors access to a modern library. It will have a conference space, a community room for after-school programs, senior activities and small performing arts get-togethers. The library will also provide the public with an opportunity to attract other government programs and services.
I am trying to get the funds to purchase the land in this budget cycle. You should know that the State will pay an appraised value that is acceptable to the State.
Pololu Valley Lookout Update
As your State Representative, it is my job to help move this project forward. Based on discussions I have had throughout our community and with the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), this is an issue that must be resolved.
Governor Ige is asking for $1,000,000 to renovate the Pololu Valley Lookout – $500,000 for the parking area to accommodate the ever-increasing daily influx of traffic and an additional $500,000 for amenities such as a bathroom to help eliminate health concerns.
Mahalo to the community for bringing this issue to light and a special thanks to the governor and the DLNR for helping us. Our work is not done; we have to keep working together on this issue to assure it’s resolved.
In a few weeks, the House will send its proposed budget over to the Senate for review. The Senate will send their proposed budget back to the House April 10. Following the review period, beginning April 16 the House and Senate will conference and discuss bills passed during session which may alter the budget and the priorities of the House, Senate and Office of the Governor. The final budget adopted by the State Legislature will be sent to the governor for signing May 1. At this time we will know whether or not we were able to receive the funds necessary for the Pololu Valley Lookout renovation.
I would gladly receive letters in support of any of the aforementioned issues to share them with my colleagues. Your voice really does make a difference.
If you are interested in keeping up with these or other issues during this legislative session, visit our website at www.capitol.hawaii.gov. There you can track legislation, stay up to date on committee hearings and submit testimony. For other questions, thoughts, or concerns, contact my office directly at repevans@capitol.hawaii.gov or 586-8510.