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Posted: Friday, July 6th, 2012 9:05 AM HST

Mayoral candidates meet in Hilo

By Ken Hupp - 67AM KPUA News

The three leading candidates for Mayor met before business leaders in Hilo last night where they discussed a wide variety of economic issues ranging from the budget to energy. Former Mayor Harry Kim said he decided to seek his former job to provide voters another choice but said the main issue was the passage of Act 97 which curtailed local rule on zoning and land use issues. “We put heavy emphasis on a regional, community development plan and I’m so proud of how far the communities went in doing that,” Kim said. “I think in the sweep of a pen, the government took that away in regards to land use and zoning.” Current Mayor Billy Kenoi and Council Chairman Dominic Yagong clashed over Yagong’s proposal to require a portion of any budget surplus be directed to the county’s post retirement fund. “The only other option that’s on the floor right now folks, is let’s wait for a better day. That’s not an option folks. Let’s wait till things get better is not an option,” Yagong said. “Its very irresponsible, last minute, legislation that has no support by any fiscal managers, policymakers, actuaries or bond writers anywhere in the country,” Kenoi fire back. On the issue of energy, all the candidates recommended an aggressive investment in renewable sources such as wind, solar and geothermal, although Kim stressed that any decisions should only be made following exhaustive research. Content for this report was provided by Big Island Video News.