Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Adopt A Street topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Committee forwards adopt‑a‑county‑street volunteer program to full council
Summary
Bill 142, which would create an adopt‑a‑county‑street program to let volunteers and businesses adopt segments for cleanup in coordination with DPW, was forwarded to the full council with a favorable recommendation after testimony and department confirmation of support.
The Hawaii County policy committee voted unanimously on March 3 to forward Bill 142 to the full council with a favorable recommendation. The bill would establish an adopt‑a‑county‑street program administered by the Department of Public Works in which individuals, organizations or businesses commit to maintain specific county street segments for at least one year while DPW provides coordination and pickup of collected refuse.
Council member Inaba introduced the measure and summarized key program elements: an application form prescribed by the director, a minimum one‑year commitment, DPW pickup of collected bags, and provisions for safety gear and signage. Josephine Kele, who testified in support, urged special attention to volunteer safety and called for signage and fluorescent vests on dangerous roadways such as Lunapule Road.
Deputy DPW Director Neil Azimi told the committee the department would support implementation and coordinate pickups, and council members from Hilo and Kona expressed broad support. Several members asked about resourcing and whether minors could participate; the committee said those details can be addressed in program rules or future amendments.
The motion to forward Bill 142 passed by voice vote with eight members in favor and one absence. The bill includes a reporting provision requiring the director to provide an annual report on adopted segments, estimated county cost savings and program recommendations.
What happens next: Bill 142 will proceed to the full Hawaii County Council with a favorable recommendation; DPW will coordinate implementation details and annual reporting to the council.
