Honolulu City Council Candidates
* Candidates were asked to limit answers for each question to 50 words. Longer responses have been cut off. Candidates were told "the compiled information would be circulated, unedited, as widely as possible." The complete responses are available at the League of Women Voters office at 49 S. Hotel St. #314, Honolulu, HI 96813 and on our web page http://hi.lwv.org.
DISTRICT I
Wai'anae, Ewa
Donna Broome Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
Mike A. Chambrella Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
Mike Gabbard Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
John Kaopua Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
James K. Manaku Sr. Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
Cynthia Kim Len Rezentes P.O. Box 338, Wai'anae, HI 96792
696-0208
Email: CynthiaRezentes@aol.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan as a way to address traffic issues? Please explain.
 The current BRT plan for the most part appears like it would be of benefit to the overall traffic congestion that is being experienced from Leeward Oahu through Honolulu. I do have some reservations regarding how well it will work on the Dillingham-King Street sections. Unless the road is widened to accommodate the addition of the BRT lanes I believe we will see traffic attempting to use alternates, i.e. Vineyard and Nimitz, thereby causing more congestion in those areas.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's Second City?
Development in Central Oahu needs to be approached with caution in light of the additional traffic congestion that would ensue. Also, where will we get the water (Waiahole decision from State Supreme Court)? All of these issues need to be factored in. Also, with development in the area more business should be proposed so we don't have everyone traveling away from the area for job opportunities. *answer exceeded 50 word limit
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first or how else would you finance needed services?
Prior to any services being cut, I believe the City Council members should be afforded the opportunity to really understand what is in the budget for each department and proposed projects. Then, once the budget is really understood, at
that time it should be easier to determine what services either need to be cut or if tax increases are in order. "Nice" services may need to be targeted for cuts. These could include the Satellite City Hall functions, unless in a State building *Candidate exceeded 50 word limit
What are your three top priorities for your district?
1. Properly planned development with infrastructure available when people move into a new development or shortly thereafter (1 year???). 2. More recreational/gathering facilities for everyone, primarily our youth who are at odds now without the recreational resources. Hopefully, this will reduce some of the undesired behavior, i.e. drinking, drugs, fighting, gangs, etc. 3. Taking care of natural resources to enhance the area that we live in. Make sure beaches and near shore waters are protected, watersheds are managed so that we don't cause erosion *Candidate exceeded 50 word limit
Pam Witty-Oakland P.O. Box 700610
Kapolei, Hawaii 96709-0610
Ph. 781-3444 Fax: 672-9238
www.witty-oakland.com
Email: pomaikai@earthlink.net
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT's plan as a way to address traffic issues? Please explain.
I support the need for a transit project to link Honolulu's two urban centers. However, a marketing effort must be implemented to insure its success. To be effective residents need to understand the personal benefits of using the system and not just support "others" using the system.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's Second City.
I favor priority of government resources to support development of Oahu's New City before allocating to Central Oahu. The second urban center of Kapolei, particularly the UH West Oahu campus and Ko Olina Resort are necessary to complete the regional vision - to provide job opportunities, to eliminate the daily commute, and to attract tourist to west Honolulu. Concurrently, the regional roadway system must be completed..
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first or how else would you finance needed services?
To address a budget shortfall, I would favor elimination of programs that duplicate state functions such as economic development and roadway maintenance. City funds should be used to serve the general welfare, health, and safety of our communities, and to encourage participation in government - as mandated in the city charter.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
Health and Safety - Additional ambulance service and police presence is needed to support the increased population of leeward Oahu, and new technologies for handling our solid waste must be development to eliminate our dependency on landfills.
Transportation - The construction of the second Waianae access road, North-South Road, and additional H-1 interchanges are needed to alleviate the traffic congestion that plagues leeward residents.
Recreation - Our children need access to
recreational facilities and programs to ensure development of well bodies and minds. *Candidate exceeded 50 word limit
DISTRICT II
Wahiawa, North Shore,
'Ahuimanu
Donovan Dela Cruz
Candidate did not respond to our questionnaire
Gerald T. Hagino
36 Lauone Loop Wahiawa, HI 96786
621-1844 Fax: 621-1844
gerryhagino@yahoo.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan? Please explain.
It won't solve the congestion but will help alleviate it. I would like to give it a try. It has possibilities and needs time to refine.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
I do not favor more development in Central Oahu unless there is a traffic plan to solve the work hour congestion.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
Would first take a hard look at the existing services and expected revenues. Depending on the amount of shortfall would look at possibility of increasing user fees, real property tax, or ask the Legislature for additional taxing powers.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
1. Restore confidence & trust in government
2. Making people feel secure their community
3. Protection of the environment & agriculture
Kekoa D.Kaapu
54-163 Hanaimoana St Hauula, HI 96717
#237-7063
1019 University Ave #2 Honolulu, HI 96826
#941-2210
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan? Please explain.
Yes -subject to careful review. There have been many concerns raised which still need to be addressed.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
Yes, with reservations. Much thought needs to be given to public transportation access and reduction of automobile dependence.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
Public safety services should not be cut - other expenditures need to be carefully reviewed. There are ways to increase city revenues without increasing tax rates - would take a lot of space to explain.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
1. integrity in government
2. public safety & police protection 3. transportation
Ernie Martin
P.O. Box 235354 Honolulu, HI 96823-3505
487-1659/220-6732 Fax: 676-9621
Email: erniemartin2001@yahoo.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems, are you in favor of the current BRT plan as a way to address traffic issues? Please explain.
Yes, as the BRT represents the City's 3rd effort towards rapid transit to relieve traffic congestion. In the initial effort, federal funds were appropriated for 100% of the costs of the system; for the second effort, federal funds represented 75% of the total costs and presently, federal funds will only be available for approximately 50-60% of the total costs. Therefore, the BRT may represent the county's last opportunity at rapid transit, as the county cannot fund such a system *Candidate exceeded 50 word limit
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's Second City.
In general, I am not opposed to any development that is consistent with the Central Oahu Sustainable Communities Plan (SCP). Any development that will have an impact on this region should be evaluated strictly against the Central Oahu SCP, and any deviations should be the decision of the affected community and its political representative should abide by that decision, as it is the community itself that is the primary stakeholder in this process.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first or how else would you finance needed services?
I would favor deferring and/or seeking alternative public and private funding for non-essential programs that have minimal impact on meeting the basic infrastructure, public health, safety and welfare needs of our citizens. For example, because of its benefits towards tourism, the Council should seek participation from the Hawaii Tourism Authority, DBEDT and the hotel industry to subsidize and possibly adopt the Sunset on the Beach program from the county.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
1. Sensibly investing in public infrastructure improvements to facilitate the visions outlined in the Sustainable Communities Plans to physically, socially and economically revitalize our communities.
2. Alleviating crime through increased law enforcement and introduction of community-based prevention/ intervention strategies such as those developed through the Weed and Seed program.
3. Restoring public trust in government.
Charles Penn
Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
DISTRICT III
Kane'ohe, Kailua,
Waimanalo
Don Bremner
348 Dune Circle, Kailua, Hi 96734
261-2492
http://www.donbremner.com
Email: bremner3@msn.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan? Please explain.
I favor the regional BRT. The emphasis on the "in-town" BRT seems like a misplaced priority. "The Bus" adequately serves the in-town area. The priority problem is getting people into, and out of, town.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
There is no reason to diverge from the General Plan's focus on the PUC and Kapolei for growth, especially since growth in the PUC has not materialized as projected. Any approval of substantial
growth in Central Oahu could be considered a violation of the City Charter requirement that zoning be in conformance with the General Plan. (As also required by HRS, 46-4)
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
Balancing the budget may sometimes require the elimination of obsolete programs or paring services which are merely support services not directly involved in service delivery.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
1. Preserving, protecting and enhancing our desirable windward living environment in its character and quality. 2. Keeping our beaches in the public domain
3. Re-building the structure of the longrange planning process which has been dismantled over the years.
Jeff J. Coelho
333 Aoloa St #308 Kailua Hawaii 96734
262-2227 / 551-0972 / 947-1500 Fax: 947-1506
www.jeffcoelho.com
jeffyjc@aol.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan? Please explain.
Transportation is a black and white issue. Where does it go? Who benefits? Who pays? Will it reach the windward side? No. Then why would we as windward residents want to take on this additional cost at a time when budgets are tight? I'd rather see more sidewalks first in Kaneohe and Waimanalo.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
Yes, The idea of a second city should be just that, a second city. Complete with government functions, infrastructure.
and the creation of new businesses by ways of special tax incentives. The area was not created to become just another bedroom community. By definition a "city" provides, a place to live, work and play.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cup first?
No one is ever in favor of raising taxes of cutting programs, what needs to be addressed are user fees. Those who consume services should pay higher amounts. We need to reevaluate all user fees and do some reallocation to spread the cost more fairly. We must remember, nothing is free, somebody has to pay for it.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
I call it the vitamin B program for City Government Protect and preserve the public's access to our great Beaches
No to the current BRT plan ... People prefer Buses We must Balance the Cities Budget.
I will work hard to insure that we are providing the very Best core services
To the public, the Best police protection, the Best Fire protection. And the very Best emergency services possible. I Believe I can help begin to restore the public's trust *Candidate exceeded 50 word limit
Kimberly A.M. Kalama
Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
Stanley Koki
45-496 Malio Pl., Kaneohe, HI 96744
561 7627 Fax: 247-3317
Email: kokis001@hawaii.rr.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan? Please explain.
No. The lane closures on Honolulu's busiest streets will cause nightmarish traffic congestions. It is not good government policy to create car traffic congestion to get people into busses.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
Yes. It has been designated to meet our growing demand for housing. In order to alleviate traffic congestion, we need to create a second city in Central Oahu. We should encourage relevant government services and businesses to locate there.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
We should take an inventory of what are the core services that the city should be providing and decisions on which services to cut or eliminate. We can make our dollar go further by operating more efficiently. We must learn to live within our means and not be all things to all people.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
1] Crime reduction and better war against drugs. 2] Better maintenance of parks. 3] Prompt completion of construction projects that tie up roadways.
Barbara Marshall
PO Box 1750
Kailua, HI 96734
marshallb001@hawaii.rr.com
254-9536 Fax: 254-9536 (call first)
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan? Please explain.
I still have questions about the BRT plan as conceived. While I favor mass transit as a carrier for urban areas, I'm concerned that the current plan may cause more problems than it solves. I need more answers before deciding this issue.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
We need Kapolei as a second urban core; residences are necessary to support that core. Kapolei should be a complete urban area with services and programs that will reduce or eliminate the need to transit our over-traveled Pearl City-Honolulu corridor. We have floundered in our effort to achieve this.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
I fully expect management efficiencies, properly administered, to obviate the need for choice. We need to take a hard look at our spending and make every effort to ensure that we are not wasting any of our precious taxpayer dollars before we consider cutting programs or levying fees for services.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
1) Restore trust in city government 2) Fully-staffed police protection
3) Initiate a streamlined plan for infrastructure repair and maintenance
DISTRICT IV
Waikiki, Ka'imuki,
Hawai'i Kai
Mike Abe
600 Kapiolani Blvd Ste 401 Honolulu, HI 96813 545-3900
www.mikeabe.com
Email: citycouncil@mikeabe.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan? Please explain.
I support the current BRT plan. The plan provides an alternative when there are few if any alternatives. The BRT is flexible, reasonably cost effective, and provides immediate relief. It is also a reversible decision.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
Development will occur in Central Oahu. The question is who will pay for the infrastructure and schools, and are the prime agricultural lands protected from urbanization. Oahu's Second City has not yet fulfilled its purpose of becoming the employment, retailing, educational, entertainment, and government alternative to draw enough residents from downtown. Until it does, traffic congestion pressures will continue.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
The City's primary responsibility is to provide the core public services. Priorities have to be established for other needs and services, and their must be an equitable allocation amount all council districts. I would insist on true and accurate budget and financial figures (which have not been forthcoming); and I would look at closer City and State cooperation to deliver services to avoid duplication of costs and waste. User fee and real property tax increases are the last alternatives.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
My top priority is to achieve a more open, honest and fair city government. My second priority is to make city government truly accessible and involve neighborhood boards and interested residents. And my third priority is to achieve closer cooperation between the city and state to better serve residents. The synergy will tap the resources to make city government work better for all the people. I have specific proposals to achieve these goals.
Charles Kong Djou
P.O. Box 22011, Honolulu, HI 96823
478-0006 Fax: number: 540-5035
www.djou.com
cdjou@hawaii.rr.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan as a way to address traffic issues? Please explain.
I do not support that portion of the BRT plan that proposes to close lanes of traffic. Dedicating existing traffic lanes exclusively to city buses will not solve traffic congestion. I support other aspects of the BRT, however, that enhance the existing bus system and bring it into compliance with federal law.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's Second City.
Unless there is a major shift in policy, we must continue to focus growth towards the Ewa plains. Further development of Central Oahu will only lengthen the time for Kapolei to develop into a true Second City and exacerbate the significant infrastructure problems in the area.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first or how else would you finance needed services?
Services provided by the City must address its core mission of health and safety. Programs supported by user fees would be reviewed for their cost efficiency and ability to cover the cost of the program. All other services would be considered for cuts.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
My three priorities include the upgrading of our aging infrastructure, eliminating duplication of services with the State, and providing City taxpayers with accountability for their tax dollars.
Robert J. Fishman
P.O. Box 240939
Honolulu, HI 96824-0939
Fax: 732-9167
www.bobfishman.coni
Email: bob@bobfishman.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan? Please explain.
I support BRT as as cost-effective addition to Oahu's superb transportation system, developed through intense collaboration with communities. It will benefit all, allowing more people in outlying communities access to the energy and enterprise of our central city. Mobility is essential to economic revitalization. BRT does not need new taxes.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
I support limiting growth in Central Oahu and continuing the two-decade-old policy of developing Kapolei as an urban center. This is well underway, and other development should be minimized until Kapolei reaches its potential.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
In general, the decision to raise taxes has already been made. The need for additional law enforcement – whether Federal, State or City – must be paid for. Public safety, infrastructure, and protection of the environment cannot be cut. I favor a collaborative Total City Analysis to develop a structure for current needs.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
a. Complete and maximize use of the East Honolulu Police Station in Hawaii Kai so that it becomes a catalyst for public safety throughout the region. b. Improve parking in Kaimuki. c. Expedite dredging and cleaning of the Ala Wai Canal and replenish Waikiki Beach. Additionally, my citywide priorities are: a. Strengthen public safety and emergency service.
b. Restore public trust in government and elected officials.
c. Implement a variety of ideas to mitigate the projected budget shortfall in the upcoming fiscal year.
Cameron Kealani Heen
6118 Pahukula Place
Honolulu, HI 96821
396-7582
Email: Heen4Citycouncil@aol.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRTplan? Please explain.
Yes, however I think you need to target specific groups that you know will ride the BRT. Maybe provide a few services at the main pick-up sites i.e. coffee, newspaper, etc. You need to "niche market" as I think the average family may not take advantage of BRT.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
Yes, however, it must be tempered compassion towards our environment. I feel that developers should be responsible for schools, roads, etc. in the specific new areas.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
Cut back on consulting fees and cost overruns. Two projects, Central Oahu Park and Hanauma Bay cost us 8 million in additional fees. We need to have more accountability.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
1) Traffic
2) Safety/security
3) Parks
Terrence K. Teruya
Candidate did not respond to our questionnaire.
DISTRICT V
Makiki, Manoa, Kapahulu,
Palolo
Ann H. Kobayashi
1489 Kapiolani Blvd, Honolulu, HI
947-4429 Fax: 947-4456
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan? Please explain.
No. BRT does not solve the main problem of traffic from Central Oahu.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
Yes. More development must be planned with assurance of protection of natural resources.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
Core services of the City which address health and safety must be protected. More parks, etc which require added maintenance cost must be budgeted before building. Procurement & change orders must be scrutinized.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
Sewer maintenance Road resurfacing Police protection
Kyle K. Kopitke
Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
DISTRICT VI
Kalihi Valley, Nu'uanu,
Kaka'ako
Isaac K. Hokama
1212 Nuuanu Ave., #2509 Honolulu, HI 96817
527-0609
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRTplan? Please explain.
Honolulu needs an alternative mode of transportation and, currently, I feel that the Bus Rapid Transit is an affordable choice. We have to start now to educate and create a new generation of public transit users.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
Central Oahu was primarily designed for agriculture so I believe land should be preserved for this purpose. We should concentrate on increasing density in the already planned primarily urban core such as in the second city at Kapolei.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
Essential basic city services should never be compromised. We need to take a hard look at prioritizing spending. Increasing property taxes should be considered as the last solution. I also feel that the counties deserve a larger share of the Transient Accommodation Tax (TAT).
What are your three top priorities for your district?
Public Safety. Just by walking the district and seeing the locked doors and guard dogs, I know that the residents want to feel safe. We need to maintain and try to improve upon our status as one of the top ten safest cities in the nation.
Improving Infrastructure. District 6 has the oldest neighborhoods in Honolulu and there are many areas such as in Kalihi Valley where the roads, sewers and waterlines are so old that they have to be replaced. *Candidate exceeded 50 word limit
Brian Kessler
Nuuanu Avenue #2907 Honolulu, HI 96817
536-1787 Fax: 545-1075
Email: briank@brodbns.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan? Please explain.
No I believe it will be a failure. I am in favor of a BART like solution. I am in favor of mirroring California car emission standards, registration fees based on MPG ratings higher gasoline taxes to support public transportation expenditures.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
I favor sustainability and livability in that community. I support the Second City within the sustainability and livability guidelines enacted by the use of common sense in regard to the issue.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
I would reduce the size of government and privatize services.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
Transportation, housing and the establishment of a true working partnership between city government, business, community organizations and civic leaders.
Dennis M. Nakasato
3010-B Papali St. Hon., HI 96819
841-3080
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan as a way to address traffic issues? Please explain.
Never saw the plan in detail.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's Second City.
Yes-more gov't agencies should make their offices in Kapolei.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
Cut all non-essential programs.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
Public Safety, Better basic services, Street improvements
John Steelquist
841 Pohukaina Street #8, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
597-8657 Fax: 597-8474
www.steelquist.com
john@steelquist.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan as a way to address traffic issues? Please explain.
The proposed Bus Rapid Transit is flawed because it is incomplete. The system from Kapolei to Middle St. may need some modification, but is generally satisfactory. The section from Middle St. to Waikiki and The University of Hawaii is incomplete because it doesn't provide traffic circulation within the city or Mauka-Makai routing. This circulation must be planned and accomplished as part of the project. I have testified before Council concerning this problem.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's Second City.
Development in Central Oahu should be limited to complementing existing development. No massive new developments should be envisioned. Preservation of green space and agriculture should have high priority. Tax credits and zoning should preserve quality of life on Oahu. The proposed second city at Kapolei and Kalaeloa should be the location for development.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first or how else would you finance needed services?
I don't believe that cutting services or raising taxes are the only options. The first effort should go toward improving government efficiency. Modern business practices should be encouraged in City government. Increasing revenues without increasing taxes through improved attraction of federal funds should be pursued. A program to address the inequities of unfunded mandates from outside the city must also be pursued.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
The first priority is to establish sustainable economic vitality for the city. Economic growth and prudent financial policy are essential. Next is frequent and continuing discussion between the people and their government. Neighborhood Boards and Vision Teams should be more broadly based. Thirdly, the basic functions of City Government such as police, fire, EMS, road repaving, and public health must be maintained and improved.
Rod Tam
Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
DISTRICT VII
Aliamanu, Airport, Kalihi
Romy M. Cachola
936 Kalihi Street,
Honolulu, Hi 96819
527-5674
romycachola@yahoo.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems, are you more in favor of the current BRT plan as a way to address traffic issues? Please explain.
One way to alleviate traffic is to come up with an efficient and convenient public transportation system. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is one way that we can reduce the number of automobiles on the road. The City needs to provide incentives that encourage more commuters to use public transportation.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's Second City?
I favor growth and development in Central Oahu and the Second City only if the necessary infrastructure can support the proposed growth. Landowners, developers, homebuilders and governmental entities must commit sufficient funding, possibly on a pro-rata share basis, for the development of adequate facilities before more development can proceed.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first or how else would you finance needed services?
After prioritizing current City programs and services, I would keep only basic City programs and services and cut those that duplicate the State's functions. I would also seek public/private partnerships on important City programs and/or projects. Lastly, I would agree to increased tax rates only as a last resort.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
(1) Address BRT-related concerns raised by my constituents and to complete the widening of Salt Lake Boulevard, (2) Address public health and safety issues like crime and the clean-up of the Salt Lake Waterway, and (3) Improve the City's infrastructure repair and maintenance program, particularly the roads in my district.
Lillian Lai Lam Wang Hong
P.O. Box 1203, Honolulu, HI 96807
955 Ala Lilikoi #701, Honolulu, HI 96818
839-3567
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan? Please explain.
No. The City admin promote BRT (under Mayor Jeremy Harris) is to have construction for bid and non-bid contracts to get campaign contribution! Ask Harris now (since the companies are being fined now!), he should change his mind already about BRT. I believe TheBus systems! Buy more and different sizes of buses.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
Yes! Central Oahu, especially Kapolei should emphasize on well planned and fast and more developments, so that more community can live and work there. Giving Waimanalo, etc to be able to stay country country!
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
With 1.2 billion of $, how could one tells you they have budget shortfall? With the city's auditor to work in 2003 or 2004, they will find out who is misspending the taxpayer's money! We will have plenty of $ to give community quality services!
What are your three top priorities for your district?
1. Cleanliness of TheBus stops 2. Cleanliness of vacant lots
3. Fill all "for rent" business spaces
DISTRICT VIII
Pearl City, Waipi'o, Shafter
Gary Okino
P.O. Box 181
Aiea, Hawaii 96701
Ph. 488-0830
website: www.garyokino.com
email: garyokino@hawaii.rr.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan as a way to address traffic issues? Please explain.
Response: The ultimate solution to Honolulu's traffic congestion problem will be a grade-separated system, like fixed rail. It would provide tremendous additional capacity not affected by street level congestion. However, with federal funds available only for a BRT system at this time, I am supporting it as an interim solution.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's Second City.
Response: The City's growth management policy (General Plan) calls for full development of the PUC as well as directing growth to the Second City and the urban fringes of Ewa and Central Oahu. These areas must accommodate more growth to preserve the rural and open space environment of the other areas.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first or how else would you finance needed services?
Response: Next year, we will face a huge budget shortfall. I will be calling for an "essential services" study to determine, with public input, where cuts would be acceptable. We will also have to find other sources of revenue, reduce spending, deliver services more efficiently, and, if necessary, raise taxes.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
Response: 1) Traffic, particularly relieving congestion in the Manana area and at other major intersections, and reducing speeding along major arterials. 2) Preservation of the Aiea mill site for development of a community town center. 3) Revitalization of lower Pearl City.
DISTRICT IX
Waipahu, Mililani, Makakilo
Guillermo S. "Guill" Colon
95-123 Hamumu PI. Mililani Hi. 96789
623-1982/554-8637
www.guillcolon.com Email:
colong001@hawaii.rr.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan? Please explain.
I'm in favor of BRT. I favor the plan because it has been proven as a way to relieve traffic congestion and to improve the economy. For it to work there are issues that need addressing at the City and State level. Issues of lane closings for dedicated bus ways and getting commuters out of personal vehicles and into public transit. Transit has to be a viable choice for the commuter in terms of economics and time.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
I am in favor of some development of Central Oahu, but not in over development. We need to develop Central Oahu as an economic center to attract businesses and jobs before just building more homes.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first?
I would prioritize services from essential to least essential. Then I would look at alternative sources for funding like through the private sector. Third I would evaluate the services and see where we could combine services and reduce inefficiencies. Finally I would look at cutting of services.
What are your three top priorities for your district?
The 3 top priorities of my district are improve transit accessibility, reduce property and personal crime, and to improve the community's quality of life.
Nestor Garcia
Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
Mike Golojuch
92-954 Makakilo Drive #71, Makakilo, HI 96707-1340
(cell) 779-9087 / 672-9050 Fax: 672-6347
www.geocities.com/MikeGolojuch
golojuchm001@hawaii.rr.com
To help solve our traffic congestion problems are you in favor of the current BRT plan? Please explain.
Yes, we lost rail over 10 years ago. Funds are available to put the BRT in place. Is it an ideal system? No, BRT will help. A BRT costs run between 12 million and $55 million. Rail in Honolulu is cost prohibited. BRT does have an image problem but workable.
Do you favor more development in Central Oahu? Please explain, including your view of Oahu's second city plan.
I consider Kapolei as the new city. It is needed to ease some of the work locations and traffic congestion from Honolulu. The greatest downfall is the lack of infrastructure especially roads and alternative transportation. Light rail (train) could be used to cover Central Oahu, Leeward and the North Shore.
If City revenue does not meet expected budget needs, what service would you cut first? .
I would look at cutting nice to have items. There is Sunset on the Beach and the Brunch. These are excellent programs but no longer should be funded by the City. Is rubbish pick up needed twice a week? How much would we save for once a week pick-up?
What are your three top priorities for your district? .
To unify this new diverse group of communities, which make up the 9th District to speak with one voice. Parks must be reviewed and decisions made on both building and maintaining the parks. Various infrastructure items need to be worked so the communities have adequate roads, sewers and water.
Clifford Laboy
Candidate did not respond to our questionnaire.
Michael Nakamura
Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
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August 2002
September 2002