Leaves day early to meet with DOE official

HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie will depart Honolulu this evening to attend the 2012 National Governors Association (NGA) Winter Meeting, being held from February 24 to 27 in Washington, D.C.

Tomorrow, one day prior to the NGA Winter Meeting, Governor Abercrombie is scheduled to meet U.S. Department of Education Secretary Arne Duncan to discuss Hawai'i’s continued commitment in fulfilling its Race to the Top goals.

The agenda for the NGA Winter Meeting includes sessions on Growing State Economies and various committee meetings. Sunday night, governors will join the President and Mrs. Obama at the White House. On Monday, governors will return to the White House for additional meetings with the President and First Lady, as well as Vice President and Dr. Biden.

Before Monday’s White House meeting, governors will gather in a closing session to discuss NGA policy positions. Throughout, “Governors-Only” sessions will provide governors the opportunity for dialogue on a variety of issues facing states.

“One of the issues that I will raise is the challenge we face regarding the Compacts of Free Association on the State of Hawai'i,” said Governor Abercrombie. “I also want to talk about ways to support the Obama Administration’s efforts to increase travel and tourism.”

Governor Abercrombie serves on the NGA committees of Education, Early Childhood and Workforce, and Homeland Security and Public Safety.

The Governor will stop in Los Angeles to meet with film and TV industry representatives before returning to Honolulu on February 29.

Attorney General David M. Louie announced today that Governor Neil Abercrombie and Director of the State Department of Health Loretta Fuddy, have filed separate answers, as the two defendants named in their official capacities, in the First Amended Complaint in Jackson v. Abercrombie, the United States District Court lawsuit which challenges Hawaii’s ban on same sex marriage.  

Governor Abercrombie has acknowledged many of the complaint’s allegations, including the denial of federal constitutional rights caused by the state’s existing marriage law.  Director Fuddy, however, as the director of the department charged with administering the law, has denied many of the complaint’s allegations.  As such, the Department of Health will continue to enforce the law, and will vigorously defend it.  Both defendants’ answers are attached to this press release.

The Complaint

The complaint alleges that on November 18, 2011, plaintiffs Natasha Jackson and Janin Kleid were denied a marriage license by the Department of Health because they are both women.  The complaint also alleges that plaintiff Gary Bradley and his partner were the first male couple to obtain a civil union in Hawaii, but chose not to apply for a marriage license because it would be “futile” to do so under state law.  

All three plaintiffs allege that the denial of a marriage license to them by the State, pursuant to section 572-1 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes and article I, section 23 of the Hawaii Constitution, violates their rights to Due Process and Equal Protection under state law, guaranteed them by the Fourteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution.  

Governor Abercrombie’s Position

Governor Abercrombie, in choosing not to defend those portions of the complaint alleging equal protection and due process violations under the United States Constitution, issued the following statement: “Under current law, a heterosexual couple can choose to enter into a marriage or a civil union.  A same-sex couple, however, may only elect a civil union.  My obligation as Governor is to support equality under law.  This is inequality, and I will not defend it.”

In his answer to the complaint, Governor Abercrombie has specifically admitted several of the plaintiffs’ allegations:

· To the extent that state law allows opposite sex couples, but not same sex couples, to get married, it violates the Due Process Clause and Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution.

· State law, in denying all opposite sex couples the ability to get married, violates the Due Process Clause of the United States Constitution because the right to marry is a fundamental right, and there is no legitimate reason to deny otherwise qualified couples the ability to marry simply because they are of the same sex.

· Allowing opposite sex couples but not same sex couples to get married violates the Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution.  By denying all same sex couples the ability to marry, state law discriminates on the basis of sexual orientation, and there are no compelling, substantial, or even rational bases for such discrimination.

Governor Abercrombie is defending against all of the allegations in the complaint that he has not admitted in his answer.  This means he is defending against certain allegations, including defending the state against any civil rights liability under chapter 42, section 1983 of the United States Code.  The Governor is also defending the state against any money damages claims.

Director Fuddy’s Position

Director Fuddy, after consulting with the Governor, has chosen to defend against the complaint.  She issued the following statement: “The Department of Health is charged with implementing the law as passed by the Legislature. Absent any ruling to the contrary by competent judicial authority regarding constitutionality, the law will be enforced.  Because I am being sued for administering the law, I will also defend it.”

In her answer to the complaint, Director Fuddy specifically:

· Admits that she has been sued in her capacity as the Director of the Department of Health.  The authority, responsibilities, and duties of that office are as stated in Hawaii law.

· Admits that Bradley and his male partner cannot be issued a marriage license under existing Hawai‘i law.

· Denies that plaintiffs may have their relationship recognized as a marriage by the state.

The Attorney General’s Legal Ability To Represent Multiple Parties

The Attorney General has assigned separate teams of attorneys to represent the Governor and the Director of Health, under well-established Hawaii Supreme Court precedent.

In State v. Klattenhoff (1990) and Chun v. Board of Trustees of Employees' Retirement System of State of Hawaii (1998), the Hawaii Supreme Court held that the Department of the Attorney General may undertake concurrent representation of multiple parties, which might otherwise constitute a conflict of interest under Rule 1.7 of the Hawaii Code of Professional Conduct, the rules governing lawyers.  In so doing, however, the Department must erect appropriate firewalls between the competing attorneys, and take steps to ensure that no prejudice is suffered by the clients.

In this case, both the Governor and the Director are being represented by separate teams of attorneys general, and appropriate protections have been put in place to ensure that both clients are being vigorously, and separately, represented.


Attach.

Governor Neil Abercrombie has appointed more than 120 individuals to 30 boards and commissions.  These appointments are subject to Senate confirmation.  Among these are the following:

· Lorraine Akiba as commissioner to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC)

· Kim Coco Iwamoto as commissioner to the Civil Rights Commission

· Peter Ho as commissioner to the Tax Review Commission

· Ted Yamamura as commissioner to the Water Resource Management Commission

Lorraine Akiba will succeed John Cole when his term on the PUC ends on June 30, 2012.

Ms. Akiba is an attorney and partner at McCorriston Miller Mukai MacKinnon, LLP, where she heads the firm’s Environmental Practice Group.  From 1995 to 2000, Ms. Akiba served as state Director of Labor and Industrial Relations.  She previously worked at Cades Schutte Fleming & Wright, where she headed the firm’s Environmental Practice Group.  Her legal background includes practice in commercial and real estate/business litigation, healthcare law, environmental and natural resources law, construction litigation, and government relations.  Ms. Akiba has served on a number of legal organizations including the Hawai'i State Bar Association, Hawai'i Women Lawyers Foundation, National Conference of Women’s Bar Association, and Environmental Law Institute.  A longtime community advocate, Ms. Akiba is also a former chairperson of the State of Hawai'i Environmental Council and the Democratic Party of Hawai'i. Ms. Akiba holds a Juris Doctor from Hastings College of the Law; and a Bachelor of Arts in political science from University of California, Berkeley.

Kim Coco Iwamoto is appointed to commissioner to the Civil Rights Commission.  Ms. Iwamoto served on the Board of Education from 2006 to 2010.  She served on a number of committees and boards including the Career and Technical Education Coordinating Advisory Council at the University of Hawai'i, the Safe School Community Advisory Committee, and the Hawai'i 3-5

Transition Task Force.  Her legal experience includes service at Volunteer Legal Services
Hawai'i, Legal Aid Society of Hawai'i, and San Francisco Human Rights Commission.  Ms. Iwamoto holds a Juris Doctor from the University of New Mexico School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in creative writing from San Francisco State University.

Peter Ho is chairman, president and chief executive officer of Bank of Hawai'i.  His employment at the bank began in 1993 when he started as an assistant vice president in the National Banking Division.  Mr. Ho was the chairman of the APEC 2011 Hawai'i Host Committee.  He serves on the boards of the Hawai'i Chapter of the American Red Cross and 'Ahahui Koa Anuenue, and on the board of trustees of McInerny Foundation and Strong Foundation.  In 2003, Mr. Ho was named Pacific Business News Young Business Person of the Year.  He holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration and an MBA from the University of Southern California.

Ted Yamamura is the executive vice president and senior appraiser for ACM Consultants, Inc.  His experience in land issues and land valuation spans 30 years.  Mr. Yamamura currently serves a member on the Maui County Board of Water Supply and is a past member of the State of Hawai'i Board of Land and Natural Resources.  His expertise is in real estate valuation and counseling for government entities throughout the state, arbitration procedures, and the valuation of complex and high value residential properties.  A Vietnam War veteran, Mr. Yamamura, served in the U.S. Air Force and attended the University of Hawai'i at Manoa.

Governor Neil Abercrombie is in Los Angeles today attending the US-China Economic Trade and Trade Cooperation Forum & Signing Ceremony.  Today’s events in California will conclude Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping’s visit to the United States.

Governor Abercrombie is in attendance at the invitation of Vice President Joe Biden and California Governor Jerry Brown.  The Forum is aimed at encouraging more Chinese investment in the United States.

“I’m pleased to be here,” said Governor Abercrombie. “It is important for us to continue to build on the momentum of the relationships that we’ve established with China. I intend to make the most of my short time here in hopes of expanding business and visitor industry relationships for Hawai'i.”

Accompanying Governor Abercrombie is Department of Business and Economic Development and Tourism Director Richard Lim and Hawai'i Tourism Authority President Mike McCartney. Following the day-long Forum, Governor Abercrombie will attend a US-China Governors’ Roundtable, followed by an official dinner hosted by Chinese dignitaries.

In October 2011, Governor Abercrombie visited Beijing during a National Governors Association China Forum. A month later, at the conclusion of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Hawai'i China CEO Forum, the Governor signed an agreement with Mr. Yu Ping, Vice Chairman of the China Council for Promotion, to pursue mutual interests in clean energy development.  

Governor Abercrombie returns to Honolulu tomorrow.

HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie today announced the appointment of Heather Haunani Giugni to the state House of Representatives for District 33, which includes 'Aiea, 'Aiea Heights, Halawa Heights, Halawa Valley and Red Hill.

Ms. Giugni fills the seat left vacant by former Representative Tom Okamura who stepped down recently due to health reasons.

“Heather and her family have been part of the democratic story for generations,” said Governor Abercrombie. “The lessons she’s learned firsthand from Hawai'i’s leaders have helped define her strong commitment to uplifting young people and building a better future for this state. In addition, her skills and appreciation of modern technology and communication will be valuable assets to the legislature.”

With over 25 years of film and video experience, Ms. Giugni is the owner of Juniroa Productions and a founding member of 'Ulu'ulu: The Henry K. Giugni Moving Image Archive of Hawai'i. She has worked on numerous documentaries that have highlighted history, culture and traditions of Hawai'i. Ms. Giugni has been a producer for the live broadcasts of the Kamehameha Schools Song Contest and the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival. She is a producer and mentor for Hiki No, a PBS Hawai'i show produced by Hawai'i high school students.

“I look forward to serving the community and following in the footsteps of those leaders who represented this special district,” said Ms. Giugni.  

Ms. Giugni is a resident of 'Aiea. Her swearing in ceremony will take place Tuesday, February 21, when the House of Representatives convenes.

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HONOLULU –Governor Neil Abercrombie today ordered that all national and Hawai'i flags at all State offices and agencies as well as the Hawai'i National Guard are to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, February 18, 2012 in memory of former State Representative Samuel Sang Hoy Lee.

Former Representative Lee served the Mililani district from 1986 to 1996. He was succeeded in the House of Representatives by his partner in life, Marilyn.  Prior to serving in the House, Sam Lee served in the Department of State’s Foreign Service.

“Sam was truly a man who believed in, and dedicated his life to public service,” stated Governor Abercrombie. “To the Lee family, please accept my heartfelt condolences for your loss.  I wish you Sam’s strength and courage in the days ahead.”

The Governor issued the attached proclamation in honor of former Representative Lee.

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HONOLULU - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has renewed a disaster declaration for Hawai'i Island due to volcanic emissions from Kilauea Volcano. The declaration is in response to a request from Governor Neil Abercrombie on December 27, 2011, citing continued agricultural production losses caused by vog.

The federal declaration allows Hawai'i County agricultural producers the opportunity to apply for emergency loans due to damage caused by volcanic emissions. This type of disaster assistance has been provided for Hawai'i Island agricultural producers since 2008.

“Many farmers and ranchers on Hawai'i Island continue to have a difficult time with the cumulative effects of vog on their crops and livestock operations,” said Governor Abercrombie.  “The federal disaster designation renews our access to emergency federal loans and other assistance programs in this ongoing situation.”

Agricultural damages reported in Hawai'i County include: damage to vegetable crops (especially leafy greens), some orchard crops, flowers and foliage (including those under greenhouses).  
Ranchers have experienced adverse impacts on range grasses and premature corrosion of fencing, gates and other metal infrastructure.

Hawai'i County agricultural producers who want to apply for emergency loans due to damage caused by volcanic emissions must do so before August 2012. For more information regarding emergency loans and other available assistance, contact the Hilo office of the USDA Farm Service Agency at (808) 933-8381 extension 2.

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HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie has appointed Scott Edward Enright to Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture (DOA), and Leila Kagawa to Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources and Development (DHRD).

Mr. Enright (DOA Deputy Director) brings a strong background in agriculture, community building, and conflict resolution to his position. Mr. Enright has worked as a consultant for the Hawai'i Sustainable Agriculture and Renewable Energy Project project manager for ITC Water Management, cultivation and irrigation superintendent for Hamakua Sugar Company, and orchard superintendent for Kilauea Agronomics. Mr. Enright was also served as Chairman for the Board of Agribusiness Development Corporation, on the Community Development Plan Steering Committee for Hamakua District, and on the Hilo-Hamakua Community Development Corporation Board.

A graduate of the University of Hawai'i – Hilo, Mr. Enright holds bachelor’s degrees in psychology and philosophy. He also earned a Master of Science degree in conflict analysis and resolution from George Mason University.

Mr. Enright begins his duties as DOA Deputy Director immediately.

Ms. Kagawa (DHRD Deputy Director) has over 15 years of experience in human resources. She is currently a Senior Solutions Consultant at ADP, Inc., where she provides employer services solutions sessions to executive management across the state. Ms. Kagawa is also a Human Resources Certification Program Facilitator. She is a former Human Resources Manager at Pacific Marine & Supply Co., Ltd. & Subsidiaries. Ms. Kagawa is a designated Senior Professional in Human Resources and Certified Payroll Professional. She is a board member of the Society of Human Resource Management Hawai'i Chapter and National Association, and the Vice President of the American Payroll Association Hawai'i Chapter and National Association.

A graduate of the University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Ms. Kagawa holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations and political science. She completed her master’s degree coursework in organizational development from the University of Phoenix and Hawai'i Pacific University.

Ms. Kagawa begins her position as DHRD Deputy Director on March 1, 2012.

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HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie today testified before two separate joint legislative hearings in support of conveying Kaka'ako Makai lands to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA).  The identical measures, House Bill 2521 and Senate Bill 2783, are based on an agreement made in November 2011 between the state and OHA.

In summary, the agreement would convey approximately $200 million worth of land in Kaka'ako Makai to OHA. No cash would be paid. In exchange for the land, any and all claims regarding OHA’s share of ceded land receipts from November 7, 1978, through July 1, 2012, would be resolved. This agreement is subject to legislative approval.

“In accordance with the Legislature’s authority to determine OHA’s appropriate portion of income and proceeds from ceded lands, we are presenting this agreement in principal for your consideration and approval,” stated Governor Abercombie in his testimony. “I believe this agreement is pono and benefits both Native Hawaiians and the entire State of Hawai'i.

The House committees on Water, Land, and Ocean Resources and Hawaiian Affairs deferred the measure for later this week. The respective Senate committees also deferred SB 2783 for decision making at a later date.

For more information about the OHA agreement with the state, please visit http://hawaii.gov/gov/newsroom/press-releases/the-state-of-hawaii-and-the-office-of-hawaiian-affairs-discuss-settlement-regarding-ceded-lands.

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HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie this morning signed into law House Bill 608, which appropriates state funds to The Queen’s Medical Center to perform kidney and liver transplants and to the National Kidney Foundation of Hawai'i to maintain its chronic kidney disease management program.

“Without operational organ transplant services in the state, patients with end-stage diseases must register on transplant waiting lists for mainland transplant centers and many of these patients will face a longer waiting time,” stated Governor Abercrombie who signed HB 608 at The Queen’s Medical Center. “This was a collaborative effort where the Legislature, community members, and health providers understood that lives were at stake.  I’m grateful that we are able to make a positive difference.”

This is the first bill enacted by the Governor this session. The sum appropriated, which are subject to dollar-for-dollar private matching funds, include:

• $1.5M to The Queen’s Medical Center to support services to perform kidney and liver transplants in Hawai'i.

• $300,000 to the National Kidney Foundation of Hawai'i to maintain its chronic kidney disease management program.

“We are very appreciative of the efforts of the Governor and the Legislature for their commitment to save this vital program,” said Art Ushijima, President of The Queen’s Medical Center. “Establishing the Queen’s Transplant Center as quickly as possible has been a top priority.”

According to the National Kidney Foundation of Hawai'i, there are currently 400 patients on the transplant waiting list.

“We are truly grateful that the community, especially to The Queen’s Medical Center, the state elected officials and to Governor Abercrombie, responded to the true need for a transplant center in Hawai'i,” added Glenn Hayashida, CEO of the National Kidney Foundation of Hawai'i. “Everyone understood that not everyone could travel to the mainland for a transplant.”

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February 3, 2012

Honolulu – Government officials and private sector leaders today joined Governor Neil Abercrombie and Choi Kyu-Chong, Director of the Electricity Market and Smart Grid Division at the Republic of Korea Ministry of Knowledge Economy (MKE), at the Hawai'i State Capitol as the two leaders signed a letter of intent to pursue mutual interests in smart grid development in the Hawaiian Islands.  

“We are delighted that the Republic of Korea is engaging with the State of Hawai'i on a mutually beneficial smart grid development projects," said Governor Abercrombie. “Partnerships like this show the world just how serious Hawai'i is about our commitment to building a leading clean energy economy through clean energy demonstration and implementation.”

Both Korea and the United States, specifically Hawai'i, have been conducting a number of relevant smart grid demonstration projects. Korea and State of Hawai'i recognize that it would be mutually beneficial to collaborate on smart grid research, development and demonstration projects in conjunction with public/private partners from Korea, Hawai'i and elsewhere in the United States.  

“The Republic of Korea and the State of Hawai'i both share the common goals of clean energy and energy independence,” said Director Choi Kyu-Chong. “The language that we share is that of green growth, independence and prosperity. Through the development of advanced energy technologies, including smart grid, we can sustain and prosper.”    

MKE and its Korea Smart Grid Institute (KSGI) have been at the forefront of the Korea Smart Grid Roadmap, South Korea’s plan to develop and implement a nationwide smart grid by 2030. The MKE and KSGI are currently leading more than 170 South Korean companies in the development and deployment of the Jeju Island Test Bed, a planned 6,000 household smart grid community demonstration project in South Korea, with investments totaling more than $240 million between 2009 and 2013. KSGI is also currently implementing a joint Korea-State of Illinois project to install energy-saving equipment in at least four Chicago buildings with investments of more than $35 million by companies such as LG Electronics and KT Corporation (formerly known as Korea Telecom).  

The goal of the partnership between Korea and Hawai'i is to develop a memorandum of understanding for a project in Hawai'i similar to those mentioned above. Such a partnership would help both partners achieve the mutual goals of smart grid development and deployment, which ultimately improves energy efficiency and promotes economic growth.

“The state currently has approximately 80 renewable energy projects in various stages of development in the queue,” added state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism Director Richard Lim. “Building a smart grid system will help us manage the power that is generated by renewable resources, which means more projects can come to fruition. That translates into more jobs for our local economy.”

The next step outlined in the letter of intent is for both parties to collaborate on a more defined memorandum of understanding by October 31, 2012, which will describe the project partners, scope, location and resource contributions.

This project is in addition to another smart grid demonstration project that is currently taking place on Maui, which was brought forward through an agreement with Japan-based New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) in November of 2011.

For more information, visit www.energy.hawaii.gov.

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High-resolution photos are available for download at:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/neilabercrombie/sets/72157629163392603/
(Photos courtesy of the Office of the Governor, State of Hawai'i)

Media Contacts:

Kathy Yim
Energy Analyst
State Energy Office, DBEDT
(808) 587-9003

Mark Glick    
Energy Program Administrator    
State Energy Office, DBEDT    
(808) 587-3812

February 2, 2012

HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated Hawai'i County as a primary natural disaster area resulting from ongoing drought conditions. The Governor last month applied for the designation, which clears the way for Hawai'i Island farmers and ranchers to apply for available federal relief.

“By designating Hawai'i County a natural disaster area, President Obama and U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack have recognized that the island’s farmers and ranchers have endured enough,” said Governor Abercrombie. “Even today, Big Island residents continue to experience drought conditions ranging from severe to extreme. The USDA’s assistance will help hard working families recover losses and see it through until conditions improve.”

"A drought can be as catastrophic as a hurricane or flood to a farmer or rancher," said Russell Kokubun, chairperson of the Hawai'i Board of Agriculture.  "This disaster assistance is a lifeline for many of our agriculture producers who have been dealing with severe drought conditions for over six years. We truly appreciate this support from the USDA.”

Hawai'i County was formally designated a natural disaster area on Jan. 18, 2012. Qualified farm operators in the designated area are eligible for low interest emergency (EM) loans from USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) to cover losses. Eligible individuals have eight months from the date of the declaration to apply. FSA considers each loan application on its own merits. Additional information is available online at http://disaster.fsa.usda.gov.

According to the National Weather Service, leeward slopes of Hawai'i Island continue to receive little rain. As a result, a classification of “extreme drought” persists in the South Kohala District and Pokakula Region of the Hamakua District. Increased rainfall has resulted in recent improvement from extreme drought in other areas, but the Ka'u and North Kona Districts remain within severe drought parameters. Moderate drought remains over parts of the South Kona District. Pastures and general vegetation from Kawaihae to Pohakuloa are described as being in “very poor” condition, and brush fires continue to be a concern.

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HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie today announced the release of more than $13 million for various Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) that invest in Hawai'i’s local agriculture industry and upgrade the state’s water irrigation infrastructure.

“As we continue to shift Hawai'i’s economy to a sustainable foundation, our investment in New Day Work Projects must include upgrading our agricultural and irrigation systems, which is critical to our food security,” said Governor Abercrombie.

“The priority projects being funded will greatly support and expand agriculture in Hawai'i,” said Russell S. Kokubun, chairperson of the Hawai'i Board of Agriculture. “Much of the state’s agricultural infrastructure is decades old, and it is important to maintain and upgrade them and keep them in service to Hawai'i's farmers, growers and ranchers, now and for the future.”

Projects identified with the help of state Legislators and county officials include:

• $4,150,000 – Pa'auilo Rendering Plant and Slaughterhouse, Hawai'i Island – Funds released to the County of Hawai'i for planning, design, construction and equipment for building renovations, infrastructure improvements and equipment replacement to facilitate economic development of the beef industry for the island

• $2,500,000 – State Irrigation System Reservoir, statewide – Land acquisition, design and construction for safety improvements to irrigation reservoirs, including vegetation removal, embankment lining, and repair and/or replacement of gate valves, spillways, outlet channels, and other features of the system

• $1,250,000 – Moloka'i Irrigation System – Planning, design and construction to replace an above-ground concrete flume with an underground pipeline, installation of a new hydropower plant and structural stabilization of an access bridge on the island of Moloka'i

• $1,850,000 – Waimanalo Irrigation System, O'ahu – Design and construction to replace ditch lining, install supervisory control and data acquisition systems, and various other necessary improvements (photos below)

• $1,000,000 – State Agricultural Water Use and Development Plan, statewide – Preparation of a comprehensive statewide plan to inventory irrigation systems throughout the state, including preparation of historic descriptions of original irrigation infrastructure, assessment of current conditions, proposing maintenance/improvements and identification of irrigation sources and water use requirements for long-term waster use projections

• $1,000,000 – Hanalei River, Kaua'i – Reinforcement of stream bank and construction of a structure to return water flow to the river’s main channel, feeding the Hanalei National Wildlife Reserve

• $500,000 – Ka'u Irrigation System, Hawai'i Island – Planning and design for renovation of the existing water tunnel system in the Ka'u area (photos below)

• $500,000 – Waiahole Water System, O'ahu – Planning and design for replacement of nearly century-old siphons and related valves

• $300,000 – Kekaha Ditch, Kaua'i – Planning and design for improvements to the Black Pipe Siphon, Pali Wooden Flume and other structures

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Waimanalo Irrigation Photos

Kau Irrigation Photos

HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie today announced the appointment of Dean Seki as Acting State Comptroller to the Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS).  Mr. Seki replaces Jan Gouveia who has been serving as the Interim Comptroller since October 2011. Ms. Gouveia will return to her position as Deputy Director of DAGS.

“Dean has been a member of the DAGS team for over a decade and is ready to lead the department in tackling present and future Capital Improvement Projects,” said Governor Abercrombie.

Since 2002, Mr. Seki has worked in the DAGS Public Works Division as a policy and planning analyst.  He has been in state government since 1991, serving in staff positions at the Legislature and the Department of Taxation.

Mr. Seki’s appointment is subject to Senate confirmation.

In October 2011, then State Comptroller Bruce Coppa left DAGS to become the Governor’s Chief of Staff.  

“I’m looking forward to working with Dean in his new role as we continue to make the necessary changes in our aging infrastructure and begin to transform our state government with needed technology,” said Mr. Coppa.

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Participants Will Aid in Hawai'i’s Broadband Initiative

January 31, 2012

HONOLULU – A new website will allow internet users to determine their computer or electronic device’s internet speed and help the state map its broadband coverage as the Abercrombie Administration moves forward with its Hawai'i Broadband Initiative. Participants can take the test at hawaiispeedtest.net.  The data collected will assist the state in identifying and closing gaps in service throughout Hawai'i.

"This is a unique opportunity in which citizens can directly help in an important state initiative," said Governor Abercrombie. "Right now, current technology such as social media allows citizens to share their thoughts with us. As broadband and technology progresses, people will be able to further engage with the state and each other."

Data collected in 2012 will provide the state’s broadband specialists an important baseline.

“Measuring broadband speeds is pretty tough, but if we can get enough tests coming in from the public over various times of the day and with various amounts of internet traffic, then we can make a good estimation to work from,” noted Broadband Program Specialist Sterling Yee.
To take the test, visit hawaiispeedtest.net, fill in your current location information, and click "Begin Test."

Additional Information about the Hawai'i Broadband Initiative

On August 23, 2011, Governor Neil Abercrombie issued an Executive Memorandum on the Hawai'i Broadband Initiative and directed the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs and the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism to lead the effort.  Read the memo here: http://hawaii.gov/gov/broadband-executive-memo/.

The Hawai'i Broadband Initiative has four goals:

1. Ensure ubiquitous access to world-class gigabit-per-second broadband service at affordable prices throughout Hawai'i.
2. Increase the use of ultra-high-speed broadband services and applications for economic development, healthcare, education, public safety, governmental efficiency and civic engagement.
3. Reduce Hawai'i’s barriers to global participation and ensure equitable access for all our islands, including the most remote areas of the state.
4. Develop and implement a modern regulatory and permitting environment that supports and advances investment in broadband infrastructure and public services.

The Governor also outlined the vision, purpose and goals behind the Hawai'i Broadband Initiative.  Click here to learn more:  http://hawaii.gov/gov/broadband-policy-outline/

Also, Australia is launching its own National Broadband Network. Watch this short video to learn more on their effort:  http://youtu.be/7tjTDSuv-2I

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