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Council adopts state fire code, approves EMS funding for Kailua‑Kona ambulance operations
Summary
The Hawaii County Council adopted the state fire code as the county code (Bill 107) and approved a $1.75 million State EMS grant (Bill 108) to open a Makalei Fire Station ambulance operation and fund six new positions. Both bills advanced after brief discussion and passed on the consent of the body.
The Hawaii County Council approved several measures on Jan. 7 that councilmembers said will bolster public safety across the island.
Bill 107 (second and final reading) adopts the State Fire Code as the County Fire Code and adds administrative procedures for enforcement, permits and inspections. The motion to approve Bill 107 at final reading was moved by Councilmember Houston and seconded by Councilmember Kirkwood; the motion carried with 8 ayes and 1 excused.
Bill 108 (second and final reading) increases the fiscal year 2025‑26 operating budget to accept a $1,750,000 state Emergency Medical Services grant and appropriates the funds to support opening ambulance operations at Makalei Fire Station in Kailua‑Kona and to create six new positions (salary/wages $749,000; other expenses $90,000; equipment $911,000). Councilmember Connolly Kleinfelder moved and Councilmember Kirkowitz seconded the measure; the motion passed unanimously, 9‑0.
Council members and staff acknowledged that Chief Todd had been involved in earlier efforts that helped enable the Makalei medic and other department improvements. After the vote, members thanked department staff for attending the meeting.
In addition to those measures, the council approved related small appropriations that fund seniors’ programs, community festivals and conservation work across districts. These actions were taken by voice vote, typically 8–9 in favor.
The new EMS funding is intended to expand ambulance availability and staffing in West Hawaii; the effective start date and hiring schedule were not specified during the meeting and will be pursued by the administration and fire department through regular hiring and implementation channels.
