The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) plans to release $1,000,000 in special funds to finance the plans and designs for the demolition of the Uncle Billy’s building. Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 4 – Hilo, Hāmākua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikōloa, Kona) released the following statement:
“The Uncle Billy’s property is a significant liability for the State as it currently poses a health and safety risk to the Hilo community. Many homeless and drug users and dealers loiter on the property while DLNR has had to pay more than $9,000 a month for security services. On March 4th, 2022, a fire broke out on the building’s premises that law enforcement believes was started by squatters. I’d like to thank Governor Ige, as well as the Department of Land and Natural Resources, for recognizing the urgency of this matter and releasing $1,000,000 to begin the planning and design process for this demolition project next year.”