The
The High Street Journal AnOfficialPublicationoftheCountyofMaui
High Street Journal An Official Publication of the County of Maui JULY 2018
TROPIC CARE 2018 TO BE OFFERED IN MAUI COUNTY ON AUGUST 11-19 REAL PROPERTY ASSESSMENT DIVISION EARNS CEAA DESIGNATION FIRE CHIEF MURRAY RETIRES
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The High Street Journal AnOfficialPublicationoftheCountyofMaui
The
CONTENTS
High Street
Journal
Message from the Mayor.................................................................................... 3 M.D. Minute............................................................................................................. 4 Happenings at the County ............................................................................... 5
PUBLISHER / EDITOR Lynn Araki-Regan
Tropic Care to be held in Maui County August 11-19............................ 7
EDITORIAL COORDINATORS Kehau Deutsche Tiffany Iida Rod Antone
Maui Bus launches Waihee Villager, changes Kula Villager routes on July 1 ................................................................................................................... 8
PHOTO COORDINATOR Ryan Piros CONTRIBUTORS Dana Acosta Karen Arakawa Mayor Alan Arakawa Ryvette Figueroa Sean Gordon Holly Ho Ui Kalani Ana Lillis Lewis Littlepage Jason Lopez June Maeda Marcy Martin Michele Navarro Ishiki Karin Phaneuf Keith Regan Jana Sinenci Rylan Yatsushiro
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Senate Bill 2293 signed into law .................................................................... 8 Kulia i ka nu`u ........................................................................................................ 9 Fire Chief Jeff Murray retires ....................................................................... 13 Kupaianaha ............................................................................................................ 14 Department of Parks & Recreation hosts various events for community ....................................................................................................... 15 Real Property Assessment Division earns CEAA designation ........ 17 Photo Gallery ......................................................................................................... 18
The High Street Journal AnOfficialPublicationoftheCountyofMaui
MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR Aloha everyone. I’d like to start out by bidding our fire chief Jeff Murray a fond farewell. He’s spent 34 years of his life fire fighting, first in the military and then for about 29 more years with the Maui Fire Department. He’s been the Fire Chief since 2008 and we have been lucky to have him lead the county into the new century. He’s pushed the department harder and farther than any chief before him in order to achieve accreditation. Even though the department may never reach accreditation because of geographical constraints, Jeff’s striving for it has given us a better trained, better equipped department that’s ready to respond to anything. He also leads by example. When the Iao Flood happened several years ago Jeff responded himself to pull families out of harm’s way. Congratulations on your retirement Jeff, and when you’re ready, you can start your new career batting in the senior softball league. We need some good hitters out there. Also, mahalo to Deputy Chief Lionel Montalvo for taking over as interim Fire Chief while the members of our Fire Commission go through the applications and appoint a new chief in the near future. At this time I’d also like to congratulate former Planning Department Director Will Spence on becoming the new Director of Housing & Human Concerns, taking over for Carol Reimann who accepted a position at Alexander & Baldwin. Former Deputy Planning Director Michele McLean will take Will’s place and become the new planning director. And finally at the Department of Finance we named Jack Kulp, the new Deputy Finance Director. I have great faith in all four of these people who are helping with the transition. I am very pleased that we have such dedicated public servants willing to lead our departments, even if it is only for the rest of the year. We want there to be a smooth transition from our administration to the next so that it does not interrupt our service to the public. Mahalo again to all of your for helping make Maui County what it is - one of the best communities in the world.
Mayor Alan M. Arakawa
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The High Street Journal AnOfficialPublicationoftheCountyofMaui
M.D. Minute
A Message from Managing Director Keith Regan FORBES MAGAZINE: MassMutual recently published a study on the importance of health over wealth to retirees’ well-being. Can you talk about the most interesting findings of the study and how your company is reacting to it? CEO OF MASS MUTUAL: Many people assume that health and wealth go hand in hand with happiness. But our research showed that health is actually more important than wealth. Our recent study, “Health, Wealth & Happiness in Retirement” found that retirees in better health experience greater feelings of well-being, including feeling more financially secure. For example, 80 percent of those in better health are having a more positive experience in retirement compared to nearly 60 percent of those who are in poorer health, regardless of their assets. When it comes to health, we can’t predict what the future holds, but we can make lifestyle choices that lead to long-term benefits.
THIS SUMMER, MAKE AN INVESTMENT IN LONGEVITY Most people have heard the old adage that health is better than wealth. Year after year, studies such as the one above preach the significance of healthy living over other staples in life. And year after year, it’s easy to get discouraged over exactly what health looks like and how to get there. Six-packs? Biceps? Tan people at 24Hour Fitness? Summer detoxes and diets? The images surrounding fitness aren’t always healthy. And the path to getting healthy doesn’t have to include solely diet and exercise. Thankfully, Blue Zones Project makes murky water a little more clear. Inspired by studies and a book that identify regions of the world where people live much longer than average, the initiative is designed to make healthier choices easier. Blue Zones studies and shares common lifestyle characteristics that contribute to longevity. For example, connection to a community is extremely healthy. Taking time to step away from technology in places like the bedroom and the kitchen, healthy. Having a bigger purpose in life, healthy. Prioritizing family, healthy. On Maui, several worksites have implement better ways of living according to Blue Zones characteristics. Foodland, Maui Electric Co. and Baldwin High School, among others, are officially worksite approved places, meaning their workers became aware of better choices and the company took specific steps to implement practices that promote employee well-being. Maui County is in the process of applying for Blue Zone worksite approval at its Kalani O Maui building. The first step is gathering 100 personal pledges from county staff, who are agreeing to receive emails that provide tips for healthy living. Look at it as no-cost resources on ways we can learn about what a healthy lifestyle looks like and how to make it applicable to our unique lives, family and job needs. I, and our county Wellness Committee, encourage you to find out more about Blue Zones and fill out a personal checklist that will give you and us better tools for healthy lifestyles. The checklist is available on the 9th floor reception area. If health is truly better than wealth, let’s find a way to invest in longevity, for our own sake, and for the sake of our loved ones. Have a healthy summer! page 4
Keith Regan Managing Director
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Happenings at
THE COUNTY
CENTRAL MAUI TENNIS COURTS CLOSED FOR RESURFACING WORK Acrylic resurfacing of the tennis courts at Wells Park and Kahului Community Center will begin on Monday, July 16, 2018, and continue through September 30, 2018. The project will include surface repairs, acrylic resurfacing and line painting at five (5) existing tennis courts at Wells Park and two (2) existing tennis courts at Kahului Community Center. During this time the tennis courts in both locations will be closed to the public. The community is asked to please avoid the construction area, equipment and materials to ensure public safety. The construction contract was awarded to All Court, Inc. for $99,865.00. Any questions or concerns may be addressed to Cheryl Akiona, Parks CIP Coordinator, at cheryl.akiona@co.maui. hi.us or 270-7388. STORM DRAIN STENCILING ON JULY 14 After two successful storm drain stenciling events in West Maui that resulted in over 100 drains being marked, the West Maui Kumuwai campaign and partners are hosting the next event in Lahaina on Saturday, July 14th, aiming to stencil the drains along the north and south end of Front Street (excluding the Historic District), and in the surrounding neighborhoods. Storm drain
stenciling has proven to be a fun event for all ages over 12 years old, and is a great way to raise awareness about the connections between land and ocean. Participants should meet at 9 am in the parking lot of the Lahaina United Methodist Church (north end of Front street, corner of Baker and Front St).Training in the method and all materials required for this simple and fun activity will be provided by organizers. The County of Maui’s storm drain stencils feature an image of Hawai’i’s state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua’a (reef triggerfish) in addition to the ‘no dumping’ message. Storm drain stenciling is a great way to raise awareness that Maui’s storm drains drain directly to the ocean, bringing with them all the pollutants that accumulate on land and run off during storm events or as a result of irrigation practices. These pollutants range from oil leaking from poorly-maintained vehicles, excess fertilizer from landscaping activities, sediments loosened due to erosion, and other forms of land-based pollutants carrying substances that ultimately harm Maui’s nearshore reef ecosystem. Participants should bring a water bottle and sun protection; other necessary materials and refreshments will be provided. Ages 12 and up; all youth must be accompanied by an adult. To sign up or ask any questions about the event, please contact Liz Foote at 283-1631 or
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WestMauiKumuwai@gmail.com. More on this and other events can be found on the West Maui Kumuwai Facebook page. To learn more about stormwater management on Maui, visit the County of Maui’s website. This effort is supported by the County of Maui Department of Public Works, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the Hawai’i Department of Land and Natural Resources - Division of Aquatic Resources, and the Maui Ocean Center. SEWER RATE INCREASE EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2018 The Department of Environmental Management Wastewater Reclamation Division is reminding its customers that the sewer user fee has increased by an average of three percent effective July 1, 2018. The rate increase is necessary to keep the utility financially self-supporting. Sewer user fees are structured so that each customer class pays its equitable share of operations, maintenance and repair of the wastewater infrastructure. All Budget Documents and Ordinances are available online at www.mauicounty.gov/budget. PAY REAL PROPERTY TAXES ONLINE WITH NEW COUNTY TREASURY DIVISION FEATURE Property owners can now pay real property taxes online with the County of Maui’s Treasury Division automatic payment program. Starting with the July 20 billing statement, County of Maui property owners, who do not pay taxes through a mortgage company, can participate in the plan to pay property taxes with automatic deduction from a bank account. Semiannual billing due dates are Aug. 20 and Feb. 20. To apply for the auto pay program, download the application form at www.mauipropertytax. com. The application must be received by the Real Property Tax Collections office, along with a voided check (credit accounts, credit checks and foreign fund checks cannot be used for this program), at least 15 days prior to billing due date to be eligible. Once enrolled, the property owner will receive a confirmation letter. If the application is not complete, the enrollment form will be returned with an explanation of why it wasn’t processed and the owner must remit payment using other options. page 6
For enrollment, cancellation and other details, call 270-2697, check www.mauipropertytax.com or visit the Real Property Tax Collections office at Maui Mall, 70 E. Kaahumanu Ave, Ste. A-18, Kahului.
PUUOHALA PARK BASKETBALL COURT CONSTRUCTION WORK The Puuohala Park Basketball Court Reconstruction & Lighting Replacement project will begin construction on July 16, 2018, and continue through the end of the year. The project will include the demolition and removal of existing, and replacement of base course, concrete surfacing with drainage slope design; concrete perimeter curbing; modular sport surfacing of the basketball court; removal and replacement of basketball backboards and posts and volleyball posts; removal and replacement of existing light fixtures, poles and electrical systems and controls; and installation of new accessible walkway to existing picnic table and new basketball court. For safety reasons, the County asks the public to please remain outside of construction area barriers at all times. The construction contract was awarded to Betsill Brother LLC for $413,213.43. Any questions or concerns may be addressed to Cheryl Akiona, Parks CIP Coordinator, at cheryl.akiona@ mauicounty.gov or 270-7388. ONE-STOP RECRUITMENT OPPORTUNITY JULY 27 FOR LIFEGUARD HOPEFULS Calling all lifeguard hopefuls: The County of Maui will be holding a one-stop recruitment day July 27 for pool guard trainees, which can be the first step to a career in lifeguarding. The county’s Personnel Services and Parks and Recreation departments will be conducting the One-Stop Recruitment Opportunity, which begins at 8 a.m. Friday, July 27, at War Memorial Sakamoto Pool in Wailuku. That day, applicants should be prepared to 1) take and pass a written civil service exam, and 2) swim 300 yards in 10 minutes or less. Following successful completion of the written exam and performance test, interviews will be conducted on the spot. Apply at https://www.governmentjobs.com/ careers/Maui by noon July 26 to be eligible for the recruitment day. Minimum requirements are high school graduation and a valid driver’s license. The Pool Guard Trainee is an entry-level position in the Pool Guard program, which offers onthe-job training at no cost to the employee the theories, techniques and methods used in lifeguarding. Upon hire, eligibility for promotions are available at six months, and the county has a generous benefit package, among other incentives. For more information, call Cynthia M. Razo-Porter at Personnel Services, 270-7256, or Duke Sevilla, pool manager, at 270-6135.
The High Street Journal AnOfficialPublicationoftheCountyofMaui
Tropic Care to be held in Maui County August 11-19 BY: ALAN ARAKAWA Mayor
This year, the U.S. military, State of Hawaii Department of Health and County of Maui will once again be bringing no-cost health care to our residents on August 11-19. Tropic Care 2018 will take place on all three islands, specifically at the University of Hawaii Maui College campus, Waiola Church in Lahaina, St. Theresa’s Church in Kihei, Old Hana School cafeteria, Mitchell Pauole Center on Moloka’i and the County Gym on Lanai. The professionally trained members of the military will offer physicals, eye exams, dental exams, fillings, extractions and even make eyeglasses for those who need them. No medical insurance or even identification is needed. First come, first served. What we need right now are volunteers. While military personnel will be doing the medical, dental and vision exams, we need community volunteers to help out with everything else. No medical experience is needed, but volunteers need to be at least 18 years old. If you or your organization are interested in helping out there’s a volunteer sign-up link at www.signup.com/Group/962851380090/ or you can call the Mayor’s Office at 270-7855 and ask for Chief of Staff Lynn Araki-Regan for more details.
For those who don’t remember, Tropic Care came to Maui County the first time back in 2013 and assisted hundreds of people by providing no-cost care. It’s a win-win situation because the military gets to do some readiness training and our community benefits from the services they provide while training. So please, help them help us if you can. A few things to mention. Please note that the military will be providing no-cost health care and not health care insurance. Also, when the time comes to stand in line it is up to you to bring any paperwork you think they will need, such as past exams or physicals. The military will not be able to communicate with your regular doctor while providing services at these on-site clinics. Otherwise, come as you are. There will be much more information from my office about this event next month so be on the lookout for it in the media. If you don’t see any information between now and the Tropic Care event, contact Maui County Communication Director Rod Antone for more details at rod.antone@mauicounty.gov or 270-8222.
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Maui Bus launches Waihee Villager, changes Kula Villager routes on July 1 Starting Sunday, July 1, the Maui Bus began a new Waihee Villager route #8 and changed service on Kula Villager route #39, according to the county’s Department of Transportation. The new Waihee Villager route #8 starts at Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center, with select stops in Kahului, Wailuku and Waihee. The route operates five times a day every three hours, starting at 7:15 a.m., with the last bus departing at 7:15 p.m. Also beginning July 1, Kula Villager route #39 eliminated service to Makawao. Instead, it added direct service to Kahului, under a new name of Kula Islander route #39. Kula Islander started at 5:56 a.m. in Keokea, operating every three hours, with the last bus at 8:56 p.m. Maui Bus fares are $2 per boarding or $4 per daily pass. Monthly passes are also available. The Kula Islander and Waihee Villager bus schedule and maps are posted on the county website, www. mauicounty.gov/bus. Riders can track their bus in real time and get arrival predictions using the Maui Bus app, available on iOS, Android and mauibus.org. For more information, contact the Department of Transportation at 270-7511.
Senate Bill 2293 signed into law Mayor Arakawa attending the signing of Senate Bill 2293 with Gov. David Ige in Lahaina. The bills aims to create more affordable housing on the Valley Isle, while keeping existing apartments affordable. The new law enables the state’s Board of Land and Natural Resources Photo: Ryan Piros to preserve the affordable rentals at the Front Street Apartments by requiring the Hawai‘i Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) to begin the process of condemning the ground lease. The new law also appropriates $250,000 for an appraisal and other preparations to start condemnation proceedings, provided Maui County makes matching funds available.
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The law appropriates $30 million from the Rental Housing Revolving Fund to expedite the development of 200 multi-family rental units at the Keawe Street Apartments at the Villages of Lealii in Lahaina. The HHFDC board of directors has already taken steps to enable the state to move quickly on the Keawe Street Apartments, approving $5 million in pre-development funds.
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Kūlia i ka nu‘u Strive to reach the summit Please help congratulate these dedicated individuals as they continue to serve the community and in doing so, “strive to reach the summit.”
At Pu’upiha, MPD, Public Works, our community members, as well as the iwi resting in this area were challenged with the homeless issues our community faces. As our social service agencies work tirelessly to engage with these individuals to assist with housing and linkages to appropriate services; this is what people rarely see. These are our champions who step in to do one of the final steps in the County’s 8 step plan when addressing homeless encampments. It has been an amazing team to be a part of. This is our West Side Community Police Officers, Parks & Recreation, Public Works, Maui Community Correctional Center work line, Corrections Officers, and Uncle Les Kuloloio (obscured) who is sharing with the team, protocol for the clearing. Congratulations to Elmer Cabacungan who joined the Department of the Prosecuting Attoney as an Office Operations Assistant II on July 9, 2018. He is assigned to the Misdemeanor Prosecution Division, District Court. Each month, the employees of Planning pass on an “Above and Beyond” award to the coworker whom they feel goes ABOVE And BEYOND!
At the Department Meeting on Friday, June 8, 2018, Paul Fasi, Planner V in our Current Division, passed his award to Conklin “Kai” Wright, Zoning Inspector II in our Zoning and Enforcement (ZAED) Division. Paul said during his presentation that “Kai I the hardest working guy in the department!” Congratulations Kai! Linda Kim, Secretary I in our Current Division, passed her Above and Beyond award to Momi Maglente, Office Operations Assistant II in the Planning Administration Office. Linda said that Momi is “unselfish and gives to others, she has a great outlook, is always positive and provides great customer service. She took on a huge box scanning project with grade and efficiency! Mahalo, Kai and Momi, for going above and beyond! In other Planning news, on Thursday, June 28, 2018, Dennis Higashiguchi of N&K CPAS, INC. on Oahu, presented a Customer Service Training for all Planning Department employees. The training focused on creating win-win situations at work when employees are faced with difficult customers, both internal and external. The training was fun, interactive and informative.
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Department, and his familiarity with all of the housing projects during his tenure as Planning Director, will be invaluable to the Department of Housing & Human Concerns, especially in the area of affordable housing.” “I thank Will for his service to the people of Maui County in his capacity as Planning Director, and I am confident in his ability to lead the Department of Housing & Human Concerns with the same dedication, understanding, and expertise,” Arakawa added.
TEAM HONUwon the grand prize at the Customer Service Training! Congratulations to Patrick Hannon, Department of Water Supply’s new Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee effective July 16.
Congratulations also to Andrew James Landgraf who joined the Department of Water Supply on July 9, 2018. He is a Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee at the Piiholo Water Treatment Facility.
1, 2018.
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“As the Deputy Director of the Planning Department for the past 7+ years, Michele has proven herself to be more than qualified to fill the director position,” said Arakawa. “She has worked closely with the community and her staff and is well-versed and more than capable to serve as director.” “Housing for our residents and creating a sense of community for our residents are primary reasons I became a planner in the first place,” said Spence. “I thank the Mayor for this new opportunity to focus more of my efforts in those areas and serve all of the people of our county.” “This is really a win-win,” said McLean. “DHHC and Planning will both continue to have experienced leadership and management for our last six months. I sincerely appreciate the Mayor’s confidence in me, and I look forward to working with him, the Council, the community, our planning commissions and other boards to complete key initiatives before the end of this term.”
Mayor Alan M. Arakawa appointed Planning Director Will Spence to serve as Director of the Department of Housing & Human Concerns, and Planning Deputy Director Michele McLean as Planning Director effective July
“Will has played a major role as Planning Director in helping to streamline the permitting process,” said Arakawa. “His experience in the private sector, his nearly 7+ years of administrative experience leading the Planning
“Both Will and Michele’s commitment to staff development and strong community partnerships will help the County continue to address the housing, human concerns, and planning needs of our community,” said Managing Director Keith Regan. The personnel changes are subject to confirmation by the Maui County Council. Another appointment made by the Mayor was Joseph Alueta as the County’s new Deputy Planning Director. Alueta is a 25-year veteran of the Planning Department. He retired in January 2017 as the Administrative Planning Officer. A 1986 St. Anthony High School graduate, Alueta earned his BS in Economics from Southern Oregon University in 1991, followed by his MBA from the
The High Street Journal AnOfficialPublicationoftheCountyofMaui
left her deputy finance director position to serve as the department’s Accounts Administrator. Kulp earned a B.S. and an M.S. in Mineral Economics - Energy Specialization from Pennsylvania State University and an MBA and Graduate Certificate in Accounting from the University of Hawai`i. Kulp was enrolled to represent taxpayers before the IRS and is a Level III candidate in the CFA Institute.
University of Hawai’i at Manoa in 2002. “I am confident that Joe’s energy and extensive work experience in the Planning Department, combined with Michele’s proven leadership, will be great for the department and the community at large,” said Mayor Alan Arakawa. “Also mahalo to Joe for coming out of retirement to serve the community once more.” “Joe was a valuable member of the senior management team for many years, and this is the perfect opportunity for him to join us again,” said McLean. “His knowledge, perspective, humor and experience were missed, and it will be great to have him back.” “I am grateful to Michele and Mayor Arakawa for this opportunity to serve my community,” said Alueta. “I’m also looking forward to being reunited with the hard-working and talented Planning Department staff.” The appointment was made effective on July 1st. Another recent appointment was Jack Kulp as the new Deputy Finance Director effective July 1, 2018. For the last six years, Kulp has been working in the Treasury Division of the Department of Finance. He has extensive private and public sector experience in economics, accounting, and finance. Kulp fills a position vacated by Marci Sato, who
“Thank you to Director Walker for appointing me to serve as the Deputy Finance Director,” Kulp said. “I look forward to working with Director Walker in accomplishing the objectives he has established for the Finance Department, and am honored to work with the outstanding staff of professionals in the Finance Department. I also want to thank Mayor Arakawa for supporting my appointment.” Congratulations to Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Brandon Segal on being awarded the Hawaii State Bar Association, Government Lawyers Section, 2017 Pro Bono Award for his volunteer work demonstrating exceptional commitment to community service and making a difference in the community by sharing professional and leadership skills, not only with those who cannot afford legal service, but with the community at large. Segal has demonstrated a commitment to promoting access to justice in Hawaii, and has set an example for young lawyers within our legal community. During his legal career, Brandon has volunteered in various capacities. He is a 2009 graduate of the William S. Richardson School of Law. After clerking for Chief Judge Craig H. Nakamura of the Intermediate Court of Appeals, Brandon assisted Judges and other attorneys in starting the Appellate Pro Bono Pilot Project, which provides legal support to appellate civil litigants with income-needs. As an associate attorney in private practice, he provided pro bono services in a federal lawsuit representing low-income immigrant residents who were seeking access to government benefits.
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Brandon subsequently moved to Maui to work at his current position in public service as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for the County of Maui. In Maui, he served as the Maui Director for the HSBA’s Young Lawyers Division for two years. Brandon focused his efforts on encouraging the younger members of Hawaii’s legal community to participate in service projects that promote access to justice. He organized Law Week events with volunteer attorneys that provide free legal information to the public. He helped coordinate the Hawaii Supreme Court’s “Courts in the Community” educational outreach program in Maui in 2017, which gave hundreds of high school students a hands-on experience in how the Hawai`i judicial system works. As former President and a current Director of the Maui County Bar Association, he has actively supported the Judiciary’s goal of increasing attorney training and the attorney volunteer pool for Maui’s Self-Help Center. He has also assisted Judges and other attorneys in the development of the Second Circuit’s Volunteer Court Navigator Pilot Program, which began training volunteers this year. The purpose of the pilot project is to complement existing pro bono services for self-represented litigants who are appearing in the Second Judicial Circuit, and help those in our community with limited financial means to navigate through the judicial system. Congratulations to Teresa Rebolledo who was recently presented with the Wai`olu Award by Geno Quemado for her contributions to the Fiscal Division of the Depart-ment of Water Supply! Mahalo, Teresa, for everything you do!
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Congratulations to John L. Buck III, Deputy Director, Maui Department of Transportation, who was recently approved by the Kiwanis Cal-Nev-Ha Board of Trustees to serve on the Kiwanis Cal-Nev-Ha Foundation Board
as a Director for the 2018—2021 term. John is ending his 3-year term as the Region 18 (Hawaii) Trustee for the Kiwanis Cal-Nev-Ha District Board of Trustees. He is excited about the opportunity and is looking forward to serving on the Foundation Board. The mission of the Kiwanis Cal-Nev-Ha Foundation is to build a better future for our children by providing grant funding, scholarships and leadership training and through their innovative Pediatric Trauma Program. Pediatric trauma remains the leading cause of death and injury among children ages 14 and under in the United States. The mission of the Kiwanis California-NevadaHawaii Foundation’s Pediatric Trauma Program (PTP) is to develop local projects which will reduce the number of children in the three-state District who are killed or injured by trauma, ensuring all children live happy, healthy and safe lives. The Foundation also provides scholarships to a selected number of students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, service to their school and community, academic ability and have been active members of a Key Club, KIWIN’S or Circle ‘K’ Club. In 2018, the Kiwanis Cal-Nev-Ha Foundation awarded more than $118,000.00 to 75 deserving student leaders. Several student residing on Maui have been past scholarship recipients from the Foundation. Each year the Foundation empower hundreds of youth to become future leaders by supporting their leadership development and training by providing the students with the tools and techniques to become effective leaders. Richard Minatoya, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for the County of Maui, who currently serves as a Foundation Director, will be the Keynote Speaker at the Annual Kiwanis Cal-Nev-Ha District Conventions, Foundation Honors Breakfast, to be held on August 11, 2018 in Kona. Richard will provide his prospective as a former Key Club President and a Foundation Scholarship recipient on the impact that the Foundation makes on young leaders in our district.
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Fire Chief Jeff Murray retires BY: RYLAN YATSUSHIRO
Fire Services Chief, PIO
Maui Fire Department Fire Chief Jeff Murray has announced that he will be retiring as of June 30, 2018. His career started with the Department in May of 1989 after having served as a firefighter in the Air Force and Air Force Reserve. After initial training, Chief Murray’s early assignments in the Maui Fire Department included Engine 8 (Lanai), Engine 6 (Kihei), and Rescue 1 (later named Rescue 10 when Kahului station opened). In 1992, he was promoted to Firefighter III where he served as Driver on Engine 8 (Lanai), Ladder 3 (Lahaina), and Tanker 10 (Kahului). He then was promoted to Lieutenant in 1995 where he served in the Fire Prevention Bureau. In 1998, Chief Murray decided to go back on an Engine as a Firefighter III at Engine 5 (Makawao). In 1999, he was promoted to Captain where he served in the Hazmat Division, Engine 2 (Paia), and Rescue 10 (Kahului).
In 2008, he was selected by the Maui Fire Commission to serve as Fire Chief. During his tenure, the Maui Fire Department built upon its early foundations and has made huge strides in many different areas. Under Chief Murray’s leadership, the Department placed focus on several key initiatives which include: Firefighter Training/Certification, Equipment and Apparatus Research/Development/Replacement, Upgrading of the Vehicle Maintenance Program, and the solidification of internal policies and procedures. Deputy Fire Chief Lionel Montalvo will serve as interim Fire Chief until a permanent selection is made by the Maui Fire Commission. The Maui Fire Department would like to thank Chief Murray for his many years of dedicated service to our Maui Community, and for his 10 years of exemplary leadership for the Department as Fire Chief.
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Kupaianaha BY: TIFFANY IIDA Department of Management Congratulations to Joanne S.C. Hicks (Dept. of the Prosecuting Attorney) and Deputy Sheriff Geoffrey Hicks on the birth of Kaipo Daniel Hicks who was born on April 8, 2018! What a beautiful boy he is!
Congratulations to Planning Department’s Zoning and Enforcement (ZAED) Planner VI, Danny Dias, and his wife, Kristen, who welcomed daughter Kenzie Dias into their lives on May 8, 2018 – a feisty Taurus! She weighted 7lbs, 13 oz and was 20.5 inches long.
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As the Special Olympics World Games gets on its way. The Island of Maui was recently represented by two Unified Softball Team at States in Oahu. Myles Padron (PW-HighWays-Traffic Signal’s Electronic Tech 2) led the returning champs into the top bracket, unfortunately only to run into a hungry Molokai team eager to make its return back to the A-bracket meaningful. Alpha Maui finished with the Bronze; its only two losses to
eventual winner Molokai. The Maui Bravo team claimed Gold in their division.
A couple of weeks later. Myles’ daughter Mykaela traveled off on a Hope Chapel youth Mission to Mazatlan, Mexico. During their one week there, they joined others in building a two-bedroom house for a widow and her son. They also distributed approximately 100 Bibles gratis.
Galen Goode, shown here with parents David and Mary Lynn Goode, graduated from Southern Oregon University with a BS in Chemistry degree. He started working in his field at Nielson Labs in Medford as a chemist on June 26th, much to the delight of his parents (and himself )! Along with his sister Rosalee and girlfriend Victoria Randle (also graduating from SOU and a Maui resident), the family celebrated in Portland with daily tours of great food and drink establishments and family forays into Escape Rooms!
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Department of Parks & Recreation hosts various sporting events for community COMPILED BY: JASON LOPEZ Recreation Program Planner
Moloka`i District Summer Ukulele Recital
The Molokai district of DPR hosted a Summer Ukulele Recital on June 21, at the Mitchell Pauole community center. Led by Parks Recreation Assistant Bernell Bishaw, his students played and sang a variety of songs from Bruno Mars, Elton John and of course songs that spoke about Molokai, Kalaupapa and everyone’s favorite, Molokai slide. There were over 60 people that attended last night’s ukulele recital. The songs were accompanied by other musical instruments which brought on additional excitement for the audience as they really enjoyed the recital. Many of them were singing and swaying to the music. One lady was even dancing in the back of the hall. Overall, it was awesome event! The ukulele students really are committed to the class and put on an A+ show. Mahalo to Bernell and your ukulele students for a fantastic show!
Hana Youth Soccer Program Hana Parks & Recreation staff has reintroduced soccer to the youth of the Hana community by offering a free soccer program for participants ages 3-16. The intent behind the program was to get the youth out on the field to exercise, learn basic fundamentals of soccer, build socialization skills and learn to work as a team.
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Practices and Games were held from April 12-June 8, 2018 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Throughout the two months, the growth of the players was amazing. They grew as individuals working to master the basics of soccer by being prompt to each practice, sharpening their listening skills and putting their heart and soul into practicing each drill over and over again. As a team, they learned to work together, applying their newly learned skills to set goals and support and encourage each other no matter who wins or loses. We noticed the parents also built a special bond as they enjoyed watching and engaging in sportrelated conversations about their children. The smiles, hugs, tears and sweat that the youth shared with the coaches and volunteer staff were priceless. These memories made it all worth it.
West District Youth Volleyball League The West district of the Park department recently completed another successful youth volleyball league. Over 60 boys and girls ages 8 – 14 participated in the co-ed league. Some of the positives the kids mentioned were: having fun, improving their volleyball skills and making new friends. The kids also learned that it’s ok to make mistakes and the importance of showing good sportsmanship. Thanks to everyone who helped out during the league. Can’t wait until next year.
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Real Property Assessment Division earns CEAA designation BY: MARCY MARTIN AAS Property Technical Officer
The County of Maui Real Property Assessment Division (RPAD) was notified in April 2018 that they earned the prestigious International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO) Certificate of Excellence in Assessment Administration (CEAA). The CEAA is difficult to achieve and RPAD is proud to be the 38th jurisdiction of about 13,000 jurisdictions worldwide to earn the award. RPAD is the first county in the State of Hawaii to earn the award which recognizes government units utilizing best appraisal and assessment practices. To earn the CEAA, the RPAD had to meet all the requirements contained in the Assessment Practices Self-Evaluation Guide. A passing score of 80% per chapter is required for the CEAA. Maui County scored 97% on the first submission which clearly demonstrated excellence. It took the Property Technical Section (PTO) almost two years to complete the Assessment Practices Self-Evaluation Guide. The guide is a narrative report on the jurisdiction’s compliance with accepted standards of assessment practice. The first paragraph of the introduction summarizes why it is important to employ best practices:
“Assessment professionals - whether at the federal, state or local level - are charged with a wide variety of tasks and duties. One of the most important is ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently and effectively, thus continuing the tradition of excellence in administering the property tax efficiently and, most importantly equitably. The public looks to assessors as competent and capable professionals who have been and will continue to be accountable for their performance.” The guide, which is a living document of more than 4,000 pages, will serve as a long range planning tool to assist in improving future operations and ensure that RPAD is performing a quality service for the taxpayer. The demonstration of excellence included a comprehensive review of RPAD’s processes including: • Administration, resources and management •
GIS, mapping and abstracting
•
Data collection
•
Land, residential and commercial valuation
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• Sales data, classification and valuation accuracy and fairness
o
• Assessment administration including exemptions and addressing
• computerization
Purchasing guidelines and processes
o Training
•
Appeals, and
o
ITSD support, training and equipment
•
Public relations.
o
Database management
o
Data security
o
Processing speeds
The CEAA is something that the County of Maui as an organization can be proud of. The demonstration of excellence was broad and included evaluations of factors beyond the assessor’s office such as: •
legal framework
o
Maui County Code
o
Support from Corporation Counsel
o County Counsel and State of Hawaii legislation monitoring and access to information •
resources and management
o
Adequate budgeting and pay scales
o Office of the Mayor procedures and memorandums o Personnel Services support, procedures and adequate job descriptions
o Procedures o Integration o
Public access to information.
Earning the CEAA was truly a team effort. RPAD would like to thank everyone who supported their efforts in completing this rigorous and challenging task. On July 3, 2018, Mayor Alan Arakawa extended his appreciation by presenting division employees with a Certificate of Recognition. The County Counsel recognized the division for their accomplishment through a congratulatory resolution on July 6, 2018. These intra government acknowledgments are greatly appreciated and are in the spirit of the IAAO Certificate of Excellence in Assessment Administration which recognizes teamwork, accomplishments and satisfaction among peers and constituents for excellent practices.
Photo Gallery A photo-essay of activities in the County
KulaHaven Farms is Maui’s first and only organic watercress and rainbow trout farm. John Dobovan, the farm owner, is very excited because they are now selling their produce to high end restaurants such as Mama’s Fish House, Haliimaile General Store, Mill House, and others. You can find their watercress in the County Wellness Market (first and third Thursdays from noon to 2 p.m. on the lawn fronting the Kalana O Maui building), currently selling half pound bags for $3. page 18
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Photo Gallery (Continued from previous page)
Real Property Assessment Division and Tax/Fee Collection celebrated April, May, and June Birthdays with Rainbow Cakes from Saint-Germain/Dee Lite Bakery.
Ms. Wheelchair Hawaii Sarah Foley stopped to share her ideas with the Mayor as to how other women with disabilities can “Live Vertically.” “It was very inspiring,” said Mayor. Photo: Ryan Piros
Pictured from left to right: Joshua Poouahi, June 9 (Appraiser VI), James ‘Kimo’ Kurohara, June 15 (Appraiser IV), and Kari Stockwell, May 14 (Appraiser V). Not pictured: Sandra Kuniyoshi, April 8 (Property Valuation Analyst V), Scott Teruya, April 16 (Administrator), May-Anne Alibin, May 1 (Treasurer), LeeAnn Leynes, May 8 (Appraiser III), and Melvina Kahana, May 17 (Supervising Real Property Tax Clerk).
Mayor and Ann Arakawa at the Farm Apprentice Mentoring (FAM) Program Graduation at UH Maui College on June 27, 2018. Photo: Ryan Piros
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2018 Miss Maui Filipina Contestants Sheila Manuel, Fayma Angeli Sales, Joy Nina Tabon, Rosabelle Vehikite, and Vanessa Joy Baldos.
Congratulations to Joy Tabon who was recently crowned as the 2018 Miss Maui Filipina. Presenting the crown is Mayor Alan Arakawa and 2017 Miss Maui Filipino Gabrielle Gutierrez.
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Maui County Business Resource Center July Workshop Schedule Maui County Business Resource Center workshops are offered to the general public through the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development. All workshops are held at the Maui County Business Resource Center, Maui Mall and are subject to change or cancellation. Workshops are free unless otherwise noted.
Call to reserve your seat at 270-5770 Government Contracting 101 Instructor: Joey Tavares Thursday, July 12, 2018 – 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Are you a small business owner who is interested in securing government contracts here on Maui? In this workshop, you will learn about the basic requirements needed for doing work with the government. As you know, garnering a government contract is based on competitive bidding. As a participant in this workshop, you will learn about the mandatory registration requirements and special certifications that could give you an edge, including how to find what the government is looking for. Joey Tavares is a counselor at Hawaii Procurement Technical Assistance Center (HI PTAC) in Kihei. They provide the following services right here on Maui:
Help small businesses in Hawai‘i secure government contracts and sub-contracts Maximize partnerships between eligible small businesses with prime contractors or big businesses Build the capacity of small business in government contracting through targeted training Provide FREE one-on-one counseling Provide FREE Bid Match (A service we provide that matches clients through key words and NAICS/PSC codes with new government solicitations that are put out for procurement, and emails them the solicitation; eliminating the need for small businesses to have to “search” for government contracts) Provide FREE proposal review, and many more FREE services to local small businesses
Market Research Basics: How to Find Resources on your Industry, Customers and Competition Instructor: Han Montambault Thursday, July 19, 2018, 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Are you thinking about starting a business? Is there a potential market for your product or service? If you are in business, you might be considering an expansion or relocation. Come learn about trustworthy resources available on the Internet that will help you better understand your market. This workshop will introduce you to market research concepts with a focus on secondary research: searching for existing information such as demographic or industry statistics. Han Montambault is the Research Librarian at the Hawaii Business Research Library, part of the Hawai‘i Small Business Development Center Network, and conducts market research for entrepreneurs throughout the state. She has a Master's in Library and Information Science from the University of Montreal. BECOMING A BEST-SELLING AUTHOR: Leveraging the World's Greatest Marketing Secret by Writing, Publishing and Promoting Your Book to Better Market Your Business Instructor: Patrick Snow Tuesday, July 24, 2018 – 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Are you looking for a better way to market your business? Do you have a burning desire to become a best-selling author? Attend this seminar and learn how to make your publishing and business goals come true. If you want to stand out from your competition, strengthen your credentials, and get free publicity, then writing and publishing book is your best marketing strategy. Let international best-selling author, Patrick Snow, guide you through the process. In this two-hour seminar you will learn your three publishing options, top five requirements for becoming a best-selling author, and 18 mistakes to avoid. Most importantly you will learn how to monetize your passion and even better market your business, or start a new business using your book as a platform from which you can launch! Come early, and stay late for his Q/A session that will answer all questions on your book project. Patrick Snow is an international best-selling author of Creating Your Own Destiny, The Affluent Entrepreneur, and Boy Entrepreneur has sold between 250,000 and one million copies of his three books in five languages and 108 countries. As a professional speaker he has given more than 2,500 speeches on three continents. As a publishing, book marketing, and speaker coach he has mentored more than 750 clients worldwide to achieve their publishing goals. He has been featured as a cover story in USA TODAY, The New York Times, and Forbes. When he is not traveling the world presenting, he lives in Wailuku, HI. For more information visit www.PatrickSnow.com or www.ThePublishingDoctor.com. Understanding the Three Stages of the Buyer’s Journey Instructor: Mckenna Hallett Wednesday, July 25, 2018 – 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m.
No one buys anything without traveling through these very subtle, but distinctive, stages on the path to a decision. Whether we are buying a set of sheets or a car, we go through these three stages every single time.
Your success at selling your goods or services is greatly improved by understanding the common denominators that are the foundation of every buying experience and each stage of the journey. Whether you are selling online or offline, the more you understand the frame of mind of the buyer as they move through the three stages, the easier it becomes to understand their core concerns. By breaking it all down, and addressing the buyer’s needs at each stage, you develop a more cohesive and meaningful engagement and ultimately earn their trust and their investment in your business. Join your fellow business owners for a 30 min presentation with a 15 min Q & A follow-up. Mckenna Hallett is a sales and marketing communications “therapist" and frequent speaker throughout the state. There are hundreds of helpful articles on her website: www.MyGoldenWords.com. With over two decades of experience with her own small business on Maui, she brings practical and easy-to-use advice to all business owners at every stage from start-ups to multi-generational operations.
“QUICKBOOKS FOR SMALL BUSINESS” by Richard Kehoe, CPA Hands-on computer training for beginners. Thursday, July 26, 2018 – 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Cost: $45 Learn to set up your company’s QuickBooks in a small class setting with personalized tutoring. This class is for new users and will teach you how to record sales, receive payments, prepare invoices and balance your checkbook. Get customized answers and schedule a follow-up appointment at no cost to discuss YOUR solutions. Sponsored by SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) and presented by Richard Kehoe, CPA and lead SCORE counselor
Free counseling sessions with experienced SCORE and Small Business Development Corp. (SBDC) counselors: Thursday afternoons – 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. and Friday mornings – 9:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Cameron Center Sponsor ID: 818 BLOOD DRIVE Monday, August 20th, 8:15 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 21st, 7:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 22nd, 7:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Thursday, August 23rd, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday, August 24th, 7:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Auditorium You can help. 1-800-372-9966 or BBH.org