Council passes commercial sponsorship bill

The Hawaii County Council passed a bill Wednesday authorizing commercial sponsorships of county assets.

Department chiefs can enter into sponsorship agreements for amounts more than $20,000, but they require approval by the council and mayor.

Hilo Councilwoman Sue Lee Loy introduced the bill, which passed 9-0. It takes effect July 2019 if signed by Mayor Harry Kim.

Lee Loy said she was looking at other ways to raise revenue without increasing taxes.

Sponsorship excludes naming rights to county facilities.

Sponsorships recognition can include a display at a county facility or mention in county press releases.