Support for possible government shutdown
As a deeply concerned citizen who believes that extraordinary measures may be necessary to defend our democracy, if a government shutdown is the only remaining leverage to halt the erosion of our institutions under Donald Trump and the Republican agenda, then I support it.
The Democratic Party must act decisively and use every tool at its disposal — now — before the damage becomes irreversible. I fear we may already be approaching that point.
This is not a time for caution. It is a time for courage.
James Cardin
Volcano
More should be done to help the feral cats
Recently, I have seen more sad cats that depend on the controversial kindness of community members to survive. They are in poor health from their stray status and neglect.
While there are a few full-to-capacity sanctuaries, I simply don’t see any group stepping up to methodically get the street cats into clinics for humane spay/neuter and medical treatment.
Could our county Animal Control offer organized training to cat-loving Hilo volunteers on how to safely deliver their feline friends for essential care?
Aloha Animal Oasis has a “community trapping class” in Kona.
JoAnn Garrigan
Hilo
Some concerns about absent property owners
As a Keaau/Hawaiian Paradise Park resident for over five years, there are a number of one-acre lots that have been cleared — a few with foundations — and left abandoned.
This raises a neighborhood curiosity and the primary question of owner maintenance responsibility.
In a particular case, a neighbor states the runaway plant growth, especially ironwood trees, spreads seeds and miscellaneous puff that is an irritant and causes constant cleanup needs. The owner has not been seen to date.
The same condition also applies to three other properties which are now weed forests, with dense growth of ironwood tress and others arching up to dominate the skyline!
None of the absentee owners or maintenance persons have been noticed at these locations.
By common sense, there is an ethical duty to keep any property premises healthy, safe and sanitary.
A quick review of county statutes reveals strong protective standards, along with common law principles, mandating property owners follow “a duty of care.”
What remains? Proper care of such property would seem to require more proactive responses by the affected community and decisive action by county officials.
James Nelson Barker
Keaau