Following a tour of a proposed site for an apartment complex near the Hilo Police Station and a free-ranging discussion of the project’s impact on the community, the Hawaii County Council appears ready to vote on the rezoning measure needed to approve the facility on the mauka side of Kapiolani Street. Those testifying before the council Monday evening raised questions about traffic congestion, pedestrian safety,and higher density problems that might come from the apartment complex.
Hawaii County officials tell the “Hawaii Tribune-Herald” that the county could save around $2 million a year by privatizing its green waste collection and disposal. Some West Hawaii residents are skeptical about the idea of moving the current green waste collection site from Kealakehe to Puuanahulu. Solid Waste Division Chief Michael Dworsky says the county doesn’t want to be in the green waste business, noting it would be it would be better for local companies to see green waste as a business opportunity.
Nolan Kamitaki, a senior at Waiakea High School, has been named a Regional Finalist in the prestigious YOung Epidemiology Scholars Competition. Nolan will compete for a college scholarship of up to $50,000 in Washington, D.C. from April 23rd to April 26th. He was chosen for his work in infectious disease outbreaks.
(AP). University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood has created a new Advisory Council on Technology that will examine the 10-campus system’s research programs. The council will focus on the university’s capabilities in research, innovation, and technology, hold briefings or symposia, and develop reccommendations that could help the state’s economy grow.
The Ironman Foundation and the World Triathlon Corporation have awarded the Hawaii Red Cross with a grant of $1540 to provide unemployed residents on the Big Island with training in Adult CPR and First Aid to help in employment purposes and to gain knowledge and skills that can help save a life. Because of limited funding, applications will be accepted only between April 7th through April 14th. For details, go to www.hawaiiredcross.com.
The Hawaii Department of Health will hold free H1N1 vaccination clinics on the Big Island throughout the month of April. West Hawaii residents can make appointments at the Kona Health Center in Kealakekua for April 9th, 12th, 16th, and 28th. East Hawaii residents can get vaccinations at the Public Health Health Nursing Office at 75 Aupuni Street on April 8th, 12th, 15th, 19th, 22nd, and 25th. There is no charge for the vaccinations.
Notice to motorists: Big Island police remind those attending Merrie Monarch Festivities this week that there will be traffic lane changes on Kalanikoa Street in Hilo. Traffic will be allowed in the Puna or southerly direction on Kalanikoa Street between Kuawa Street and Piilani Street during the festival. The one-way traffic pattern will be in effect daily from noon, April 7th, through 1 a.m., April 11th.
Notice to motorists: For those driving in the Ookala area, there will be alternating single lane closures for construction of roadway approaches to the new Kealakaha Bridge until Friday, April 9th, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This week, road paving will be on the Hilo side of the bridge. During non-working hours, both lanes will be open to traffic.
The Fern Forest Community Association begins work on lot repairs, playground, and recreational installations on Saturday, April 17th. Volunteers will build a playground, volleyball court, a sports field playing area, parking areas, and a community garden. If you can help or provide lumber or equipment, please call Anna at 769-3207.
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