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Editor’s note: For Hawaii’s Aug. 10 Primary Election, Civil Beat asked candidates to answer some questions about where they stand on various issues and what their priorities will be if elected.

The following came from Blaine Kenji Bautista, candidate for Hawaii County Council District 2, which covers Hilo and parts of South Hilo. His opponents are Jennifer Kagiwada, Grace Manipol and Gary Napoleon Jr.

Go to Civil Beat’s Election Guide for general information, and check out other candidates on the Primary Election Ballot.

1. What is the biggest issue facing your district, and what would you do about it?

Hilo faces rising costs, a housing shortage and homelessness, especially among those with mental health issues, discouraging downtown businesses and residents.

My plan involves forming a street team that combines HPD officers, mental health specialists, housing specialists and social workers to provide immediate support and connect individuals to resources. We will partner with organizations like Hope to streamline programs and ease transitions off the streets. Addressing root causes, such as high living costs and lack of affordable housing, is also crucial.

We can learn from others by implementing inclusionary zoning like California and Oregon, requiring developers to include affordable housing units in new projects. Additionally, using low-Income housing tax credits will attract private investment in affordable housing. Creating a public land trust, similar to those in Alaska or Colorado, will help secure land for affordable housing developments.

By collaborating and learning from successful models, we can create a conscientious plan benefiting all Hilo residents. This requires unified action from the council and community to make Hawaii County more livable and affordable.

2. Overtourism can degrade the environment, threaten biodiversity, contribute to wear and tear on infrastructure, generate traffic and disrupt neighborhoods. What do you think about the amount of tourism on the Big Island and how it’s managed?

Tourism is a vital part of the Big Island economy, but it also places a strain on our aging infrastructure. To ensure the long-term sustainability of both our tourism industry and our quality of life, proactive infrastructure improvements are essential. This requires securing funding to address critical needs, such as upgrading sewer/wastewater lines, water systems and utilities.

Think of it as preventive maintenance for our infrastructure. I propose hiring union surveyors to create a thorough map of underground piping and utilities across the different areas of the Big Island. This will help us avoid unnecessary roadwork and wasted tax dollars.

By coordinating infrastructure upgrades with other planned projects, such as road repaving or expansion, we can proactively replace outdated pipes, avoiding the cost of duplicating efforts. This focus on preventive maintenance will ensure a more resilient infrastructure that can support both residents and visitors for years to come.  

3. What needs to happen to relieve traffic congestion in and around Kailua-Kona and along the Puna-Keaau-Hilo corridor?

The Big Island transportation system can be improved by giving drivers more choices and flexibility. Our reliance on single-occupancy vehicles creates bottlenecks and frustration. I believe a diligent approach is key to reducing congestion and improving efficiency.

There are several solutions to consider: investing in infrastructure improvements, promoting flexible work hours or even a four-day work schedule and remote work arrangements can significantly reduce the number of cars on the road during peak hours. Staggered school start/finish times can also be beneficial. By implementing a combination of these strategies, we can create a more efficient and sustainable transportation network for the Big Island.

4. The cost of living on Hawaii island is rising rapidly. How are working and middle-class people expected to buy a house or pay the rent as well as take care of other expenses? And how can the county government help?

The rapid rise in cost of living on the Big Island threatens to push working and middle-class families out of their homes. This is a crisis demanding immediate action. The County of Hawaii has a crucial role to play in providing relief and support for those who live here.

Several measures can be implemented, including affordable housing initiatives to increase the availability of reasonably priced homes. Rent controls and tenant protections can offer some stability for renters. Housing assistance programs can provide direct support to those that are struggling. Tax relief for working and middle-class residents can ease the overall financial burden.

Additionally, strengthening community support services, such as food banks and job training programs, can further empower Big Island residents facing economic hardship. By taking a comprehensive approach, I think we can create a more livable Big Island for everyone.  

5. Do you support the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea?

I firmly support science and education, and the potential for groundbreaking discoveries that the TMT offers. However, I share the community’s concerns regarding its development and potential environmental impact.

This is a sensitive topic, and I believe achieving a balance is crucial. Finding common ground between the community and UH/TMT through open communication and compromise is essential for peaceful coexistence.

I understand the difficult position many staff and local astronomers face, balancing their livelihoods with respect for Hawaiian culture. Finding a solution requires careful consideration of all perspectives.

6. Homelessness remains a problem statewide, including on Hawaii island. What would you do to come to grips with this persistent problem?

Hilo’s homeless crisis demands action. The key is creating affordable housing options. We need a mix of initiatives: zoning that includes affordable units, tax credits for low-income housing and more funding for public housing.

Developments should cater to everyone, with studios for singles and larger options for families. Integrating retail and amenities fosters vibrant communities.

Community input is crucial. By listening to residents and gathering data, we can develop effective plans. We need flexibility to adapt and measure success in reducing homelessness and keeping people housed.

Together, with compassion and collaboration, we can create a balanced Big Island housing market that offers affordability and choice. When elected, I’ll work with colleagues to get people into permanent homes.

7. Half of Hawaii’s cesspools are on the Big Island, some 49,300. Seepage from cesspools can make people sick, harm coral reefs and lead to a variety of ecological damage. By law, cesspools must be upgraded to septic systems by 2050. What can be done to help people who may not be able to afford the conversion?

To effectively address Hilo’s wastewater challenges, a clear and realistic timeline for phasing out cesspools is crucial. Prioritization should focus on high-risk cesspools located near water sources or in densely populated areas. Financial assistance offered, in the form of grants or low-interest loans, can significantly ease the burden on property owners who need to convert to septic systems or connect to municipal sewer systems, if available.

Moving forward, significant improvements to our wastewater management infrastructure are essential. While the county’s initiative to build a new facility is commendable, upgrades to the existing wastewater treatment plant are still necessary until it becomes operational. Implementing an industrious leak detection and repair program for our aging sewer lines is also crucial to prevent untreated wastewater from contaminating clean water sources.

By combining financial incentives, innovative partnerships and infrastructure upgrades, Hilo can achieve a permanent solution to its long-standing wastewater and cesspool challenges, safeguarding the public health and the environment.

8. What is the first thing Hawaii County should do to get in front of climate change rather than just reacting to it?

Big Island can be a climate leader. A strong climate action plan (CAP) will cut pollution and build resilience. This plan should focus on reducing emissions, adapting to climate change and making our communities stronger.

A team of experts will guide the CAP’s development, identifying areas most at risk. This will help set ambitious but achievable goals for emissions reduction and renewable energy. Public input is key — the plan needs to reflect our community’s needs and have broad support.

The CAP will include actionable steps like switching to renewable energy, improving public transportation and making buildings more energy-efficient. Protecting natural areas and promoting sustainable agriculture are also crucial. Funding and smart resource allocation are essential, and regular monitoring will ensure progress toward a greener future for Hawaii County.

9. Should the Hu Honua biomass energy plant be allowed to start operating? Why or why not?

Allowing the Hu Honua biomass plant to operate presents a complex decision. Environmental, economic, social and regulatory factors require careful consideration. Key questions include ensuring the plant meets all air quality standards, environmental impact requirements and legal obligations. Unresolved regulatory issues or legal disputes could significantly delay or even prevent operation.

A comprehensive cost-benefit analysis is crucial, including exploring alternative energy sources. Engaging with all stakeholders, from environmental groups and local residents to energy experts, is essential. This collaborative approach will ensure an informed decision that aligns with Hawaii’s long-term sustainability goals.

10. How would you make the county administration more transparent and accessible to the public?

To foster transparency and accessibility, the county administration should implement several key measures. Initially, establishing a centralized online portal is crucial. This user-friendly platform should offer easy access to public records, budgets, meeting minutes and reports, all searchable and regularly updated for timely information.

Then, promoting public engagement is vital. Holding regular town hall meetings, forums and Q&A sessions allows residents to voice concerns, ask questions and provide feedback. These sessions should be well-publicized and conveniently located to maximize participation. Finally, live streaming and recording of meetings ensures accessibility. Broadcasting county council meetings, planning commissions and public hearings provides residents the opportunity to stay informed, regardless of their ability to attend in person.