Other industries needed
I hope one of the outcomes of this pandemic will result in a real and honest discussion to lessen our dependence on tourism as a primary economic driver for Hawaii.
We need to have a real discussion on ways to diversify our economy away from being dangerously dependent on the latter.
Hawaii’s other economic drivers are construction and real estate, along with the military. These industries are too cyclical and are staked to the ebb and flow of world events.
There aren’t a lot well-paying jobs here aside in tourism. This has resulted in a population decline due to more and more people moving to the U.S mainland.
This won’t change unless we all look in mirror and decide what kind of future we really want. The first step is stop saying no to every new project or industries that want to start operations here.
The local government can’t be a savior forever, because it’s saddled with unfunded retirement benefits owed to ex-government employees.
I am deeply concerned about where this state is headed. The future looks very bleak unless changes are made.
Aaron Stene
Kailua-Kona
Mahalo, HTH
Thank you, Tribune-Herald, for your follow-up article, “Inmate release is ‘a work in progress’” (April 10).
I was extremely nervous about the proposal to release nearly 200 inmates from Hawaii Community Correction Center due to the overcrowding and COVID-19 concerns.
It is apparent that many of our Hawaii County officials are having difficulty managing situations such as the recent Hilo homeless sweep and the on and off again use of public restroom at county beaches.
It was hopeful to read that a retired judge is the overseer and that a collaborative effort between prosecutors and public defenders are working together to determine who can be released.
It was reassuring to see in print that a mass release will not happen. Can you imagine 100 people skipping down Waianuenue Avenue yelling, “Freedom!”
Let’s be sure that our lead nonprofits and social services are also being informed of who is released so that they can offer and provide assistance to ensure safety and a successful return to society.
C. Wilcox-Boucher
Hilo