Tax hike no solution
In response to Mr. Lloyd Fukuki’s joy over yet another tax increase due to the lava flow (Your Views, Tribune-Herald, July 7), I’d like to add my 2 cents worth.
First, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved more than $3 million in aid and the Small Business Administration has approved more than $10 million in loans and assistance so far.
Second, there is ongoing state and county assistance, as well as a huge neighbor and state outreach to those affected by the lava.
Third, the lava flow is affecting 2 percent of the island’s land mass and fewer than 3 percent of our island neighbors.
Did Florida raise taxes after last year’s Hurricane Irma? Did Texas after Hurricane Harvey or did California after last year’s huge fires? All three of which were many times more devastating in property and human life loss.
This is no more than legislators taking advantage of a natural disaster to raise taxes, instilled with fear. What will it be next year?
I can’t predict a recession, as Mr. Fukuki can, but it’s pretty certain that once the flow ends, tourism and the economy will be right back where they left off, with the best numbers ever for the county!
As for your taxes “up close and personal,” take a drive by the county offices in Hilo and count the dozens of unused newer vehicles sitting idle day after day, wasting away.
And, finally, no one is against helping neighbors, but with an imposed tax that will never go away?
Vote: Legislators do go away.
Bob Smith
Pepeekeo
Mahalo, heroes
We are a family who lost our 21-acre farm, our home and most of what we possessed to the lava. We are now in tents at the Pahoa shelter.
Our heartfelt and warm mahalo to all the agencies, volunteers and donors who have eased our transition in these very trying times. Your positive attitudes, assistance and smiles keep us upbeat and will always be remembered. You are true heroes in our eyes.
Gus Becklund
Pahoa
Endless noise
Throughout recent history, tour helicopters have plagued residents on Hawaii Island. They have demonstrated recklessness, greed and gross negligence as they pursue profits.
If not in my community, then in another community, they fly over our homes and workplaces hundreds of times per day.
The noise pollution produced by helicopters causes mental and physical impacts on individuals. Tour helicopter companies purport to fly neighborly, but they do not do it.
I have asked for help to address this matter with the Department of Health, Department of Transportation, the mayor, the Federal Aviation Administration and the tour helicopters without any mitigation of the noise pollution.
This is a big problem that will not go away until a large number of people stand up for themselves and protest.
If you wish to join me or others in this pursuit, contact me at 982-7819.
Sharon Louise Lee
Pahoa