Editor’s note: Each Wednesday, West Hawaii Today is publishing a story about individuals, groups or organizations that have helped make life better for others in our community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Trash Free Hawaii completed its second highway cleanup earlier this month.
On Dec. 4, nine volunteers showed up to work in the pouring rain, collecting 36 bags of litter from a 2-mile stretch of Queen Kaahumanu Highway in Kailua-Kona. Between the Dec. 4 and Nov. 6 events, more than 80 bags of trash have been removed from the side of the highway.
“Once again, it made a dent. There’s still much more to clean up in that section of Queen Kaahumanu Highway,” said organizer Tina Cooper, who said most of the trash being picked up likely comes from unsecured loads in vehicles.
Last week, Hawaii County issued a media release to remind all motorists that loads in all vehicles, particularly trucks with open beds, must be secure and the only thing that can spill from a vehicle is clear water.
The Office of the Mayor said it has received numerous complaints in recent months regarding trash along roads, including bags of household refuse likely meant for a transfer station.
“We’re kindly asking residents and businesses to make sure items being transported in vehicles are secured so they don’t become a traffic hazard or end up as litter on the side of the road,” said Mayor Mitch Roth. “It’s a simple request that can mean the world of difference for your community and its safety.”
Any violations observed can be reported to the police nonemergency line at (808) 935-3311. The county asks people to provide a license number of the vehicle involved and the location. Police will also be watching for violators while on patrol.
Fines range from $250 for the first offense to suspension of registration and driver’s license and a fine of $1,000 for multiple offenses.
The next clean-up will be held Saturday, Jan. 8, with participants meeting at 7:30 a.m. in front of Ohana Fuels station on Hulikoa Drive. Volunteers are needed. For more information, visit the Trash Free Hawaii Facebook page.
Know a Hometown Hero who should be highlighted next Wednesday? It can be anybody, from a youngster doing good for the community, to a professional helping with the COVID-19 pandemic, or even a kupuna! Please send your nominations to cjensen@westhawaiitoday.com with the subject: Hometown Heroes Nomination. Please include the hero’s name, contact information and what makes them a hero.