Aloha! As you know, I am a strong advocate for conservation and sustainability. Therefore, I have introduced Resolution 09-57 requesting the Mayor to apply for Federal Stimulus Package Funds, specifically energy grants, to help retrofit municipal buildings to be more energy efficient. The retrofitting of government buildings will help Honolulu reduce its dependency on fossil fuel and at the same time stimulate the economy by providing jobs.

Retrofitting is the addition of new technologies to older systems.

The resolution parallels President Barack Obama’s statements at his first primetime press conference as president. He stated that by retrofitting buildings or weathering two million homes, we will immediately create jobs.

"That right there creates economic stimulus and we are saving taxpayers, when it comes to federal buildings, potentially $2 billion."

President Obama also explained that retrofitting measures will lead to reducing America’s dependence on foreign oil in the Middle East.

I believe that the City should support the President’s efforts in stimulating our economy by following the Federal Government’s lead in retrofitting their building to be more energy efficient. We can save taxpayers’ monies long-term by reducing the city’s energy consumption and create an opportunity for local jobs."

The expense of retrofitting will provide long-term energy savings and have a substantial benefit for the future. Karen Harbert, managing director of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for 21^st Century Energy, echoed the sentiments of President Obama, explaining that energy is not only an economic recovery device for today, but it will be creating jobs years from now.

Last year, I introduced many bills as part of an environmental package such as Bill 87 (2007) which would require all new building construction to meet minimum LEED standards and Resolution 07-357 which supports the construction and utilization of eco-roof technology. Sustainability measures are necessary and need to be implemented as soon as possible.

Year after year we continue to put conservation and sustainability projects on the backburner. I feel the City needs to be a role model and provide environmental leadership. I know we can do better!