Governor's Message

African American Commercial Council Hawai‘i, Winter / Spring 2009 Edition

Oahu distribution, word count: 450

Aloha,

The effects of the economic situation we now face are being felt by businesspeople and families statewide.

However, there are reasons to be optimistic about our long-term future, including our resilient business community, which is accustomed to doing what it takes to overcome challenges. That’s why, regardless of outside national and international economic factors that are beyond our control, we should remain confident about – and focus on – the things we can impact.

Over the past several months, my Administration has been implementing a five-point economic action plan aimed at stimulating our economy and providing immediate relief. The plan includes moving forward aggressively with improvements to our infrastructure – which create jobs in the construction industry and infuse much-needed money into our economy – as well as lowering business fees and tax relief.

Since 2002 when I came into office, the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs has saved businesses and licensed professionals more than $45 million in waived fees and assessments. My Administration also convinced the State Legislature to lower the unemployment insurance tax, which will save Hawai‘i businesses an estimated $151 million over three years.

Sapping businesses that spur economic growth with unfair fees and taxes is not a viable solution for overcoming the reduction in the rate of economic growth we are experiencing. We will continue taking a variety of steps to reduce the cost burden placed on businesses, including working in collaboration with legislators this session.

One of our long-term strategies for strengthening our economy is pursuing energy independence.

In October, my Administration announced a historic agreement with the Hawaiian Electric companies that will build on the momentum of the Hawai‘i Clean Energy Initiative we launched with the U.S. Department of Energy in January 2008.

Under the agreement, Hawaiian Electric has committed to purchasing 700 megawatts of power from renewable energy producers within a five-year period, as well as 400 megawatts of power from “big wind” projects that would effectively create one power grid connecting Maui County and O‘ahu using undersea cable. The agreement also includes comprehensive regulatory changes, the conversion of existing fossil fuel generators to renewable biofuels, and the development of a “smart grid” that would give consumers more control over their energy costs (please visit www.hawaii.gov/gov/energy for more details on the agreement).

As we enter the 2009 legislative session, we will need the continued support of Hawai‘i’s business community in forwarding energy, economic and business-oriented initiatives. I encourage you to write or call your legislator or testify at a hearing. In addition, please send my office your suggestions at governor.lingle@hawaii.gov.

Mahalo,

Governor Linda Lingle