In the four years of the most challenging economic conditions in the history of the County of Hawai‘i, Mayor Billy Kenoi worked with federal and state officials, his cabinet, the workforce of the County of Hawai‘i, and the community to launch initiatives, complete projects, and continue to provide core County government services to the people of Hawai‘i Island while shrinking the size and cost of government.
Everything the Kenoi administration does is for the betterment of the community, so it is fitting that since taking office in 2008, the Mayor and his cabinet members have met with members of communities all around the island in nearly 50 Talk Story events. See more under Community.
Hawai‘i County takes in less property tax today than it did when the Kenoi administration took office. The rising costs of providing essential government services have been offset by improving the efficiency of government and sound fiscal management. Read more about this under Cutting Costs.
Through working together with our Congressional delegation, Mayor Kenoi helped secure more than $115 million in federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds for projects like the Ane Keohokālole Highway in Kona. Federal funds also helped the largest expansion in the history of the Hele-On Bus system, reaching more people in more communities than ever before. Read more about those projects under Transportation.
Parks have a crucial role in our communities, as places for our families to enjoy time with each other, and as safe havens for our keiki to participate in positive activities, away from the negative influences of drugs, gangs, and violence. The Kenoi administration has opened and improved parks and playgrounds all around the island. Find out more under Parks & Playgrounds.
Taking care of our most vulnerable neighbors, friends, and family is a priority. Our social service safety net has become more important than ever to help the needy in our community. From building a spectrum of housing options in West Hawai‘i to preserving $1.5 million in funding for non-profit agencies, learn more about how Mayor Kenoi has worked diligently to preserve these critical social safeguards under Social Services.
Public safety is perhaps the most essential of County services, and Mayor Kenoi’s administration is committed to readiness. Staging the first-ever County-wide tsunami warning drill in 2009 paid off in successful, safe evacuations of coastal areas during tsunami events in 2010 and 2011. Continuing to invest in infrastructure and equipment, like new fire and police stations in Pāhoa or a new Emergency Operations Center in West Hawai‘i ensures that in times of need, Hawai‘i County’s finest will be there. Read more about our outstanding team under Public Safety.
For the latest happenings around the island, check the Press Room, and find the Friends of Billy Kenoi on Facebook and Twitter @FriendsOfBK.