Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2001

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Economic Development and Technology, to which was referred S.B. No. 647 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to appropriate funds to study the feasibility of establishing a technology-focused, community-based center in Waialua, assess community needs, and develop and implement a plan, including the purchase of computer and telecommunications equipment necessary for center operations.

Your Committee received testimony in favor of this measure from the High Technology Development Corporation, the Waialua Complex Schools, Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., Friends for Waialua Town, Hui Kalo O'Waialua, the Mokuleia Community Association, Waialua High and Intermediate School, and three individuals.

Your Committee finds that a community-based technology center is imperative for Waialua Town. A survey indicates that only twenty per cent of the students in Waialua Complex Schools have computers at home and less than eight per cent have Internet connection. In addition, many students do not have access to, or opportunities for, the types of learning experiences that contribute to success in school and in the real world. Accessibility and exposure to technology for youths and adults in the community is extremely limited.

Your Committee further finds that by using information and telecommunication technologies, community-based technology centers can provide local businesses and residents with the tools and resources necessary to become more competitive in today's technological workforce. High-tech centers provide training and workshops to raise the community's awareness of information technologies and how they can be applied for business purposes.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Economic Development and Technology that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 647 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.