Committee backs temporary parking agreement with Hilo Benioff Medical Center at Gilbert Carvalho Park

The Hawaii County Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs on March 3 approved forwarding Resolution 4 74 to the full council with a favorable recommendation. The resolution authorizes the mayor to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with Hilo Benioff Medical Center to use part of Gilbert Carvalho Park for temporary off‑street parking while the hospital is under construction.

Parks Director Homa told the committee the area is currently gravel with ecology blocks marking borders and that the hospital requested temporary use because on‑site parking is overloaded during construction. Homa said the hospital would operate the gate, provide security and be responsible for routine maintenance, including grass cutting; the parking would be available during regular park hours (7 a.m. to 8 p.m.).

Several council members asked operational questions. Council member Connie Lee Kleinfelder noted the text of the resolution lists an end date of Dec. 31, 2026, and proposed extending it to Dec. 31, 2027; Chair Jen Kaguara said she would bring a date amendment and a typographical correction to the full council meeting. Council members also asked about event coordination (the hospital will coordinate around large events such as Portuguese Day) and whether the hospital would provide shuttles; Director Homa said shuttles are expected primarily for hospital employees.

The resolution, as read into the record, said the agreement would be “with no expenditure or receipt of funds.” Committee members described the arrangement as a collaborative way to ease parking pressure at Hilo Benioff Medical Center during construction while preserving the park’s role as a civil‑defense backup site.

The committee voted by voice; the clerk recorded nine ayes. The committee will send its favorable recommendation and any finalized amendments to the full council for consideration.