Among the many prominent citizens raising pointed questions about the elevated rail project is George Ariyoshi, our Governor from 1974 to 1986.
In his Nov. 11, 2011, Honolulu Star-Advertiser op-ed, “Leave no stone unturned before passing rail’s point of no return,” Governor Ariyoshi details his concerns about the bidding process that awarded Ansaldo a key contract to deliver train cars and train control systems and to operate and maintain the rail system. Here’s an excerpt:
“In this current rail project, there are many questions. The chosen bidder did not have a license at the time of bid, therefore did not comply with the RFP (Request For Proposals).
Also, the penalty assessed did not comply with existing statutes, and the bid price did not appear to cover the true cost of the project.
If you were seeking to do a project, you ought to be concerned about:
- Getting a fair price, not one doctored to appear low.
- The past performance of the party on a similar situation in other places.
- The viability of the party to see the project through, which would include the support or non-support of related companies.
All of these concerns now exist with this rail project. This raises many questions about the chosen party’s ability to complete the project, from start to finish.
We are dangerously close to the point of no return, but there is still time to rethink and consider where we are.”
Governor Ariyoshi is know for his excellent management of State finances during his tenure as Governor. While he was Governor, I did not agree with all his policies. In retrospect, George Ariyoshi served us well, and kept the fiscal house in sound order. Governor Cayetano also did an excellent, yes excellent job with our State finances. The fact that Governor Cayetano, with his proven record of fiscal management opposes Rail should be reason enough to stop the project, at least until all the FACTS can be reviewed. The fact that Governor George Ariyoshi has raised serious questions demands an IMMEDIATE STOPPAGE of the rail project.
Are both Governor Ariyoshi and Governor Cayetano wrong about rail? No way.
Note, both Governor Ariyoshi and Governor Cayetano inherited difficult financial situations and prudently led our state in tough times. They were not always the most popular figures, and many complained about their leadership (during their respective terms). Upon reflection, George Ariyoshi and Ben Cayetano served the People of Hawaii with integrity, honor, and sound fiscal management.
To ignore, much less castigate these dedicated public servants is, at best, imprudent, at worst insulting to them and the People of Hawaii who they served to the best of their ability.
Wake up Honolulu, we have got to stop this insanity now. And to the special interests who are condescendingly cramming rail down our throats; take further note. Many of you, and you know who you are, would not have achieved the business and personal success you enjoy today if it wasn’t for the George Ariyoshi and Ben Cayetano. Why? Because when leaders of courage and honor who prudently manage government spending, everyone benefits. Taxes are kept in check, debt is reduced, credit ratings increase, more investment is generated, and more people have jobs.
When has it not appeared suspect?
I personally feel, the next mayor of Honolulu should take a look at this Eduardo Paes TED talk. He is mayor of Rio DeJenairo, and his talks about the four commandments of cities: http://www.ted.com/talks/eduardo_paes_the_4_commandments_of_cities.html
Note that he talks about Rio’s bus-based transit system in which buses have dedicated lanes, buses are transformed to function like a subway car, bus stations are modernized to function like modern subway systems – all at much less cost than a traditional rail/subway. He also talks about quality (not necessarily expensive) infrastructure improvements, and high tech operations center (imagine mission control) to monitor and manage city operations.
The wisdom of the “Elder Statesmen” ought not to be taken lightly, as this is their duty, as advisors to the young lions…dlh
They say the train will make gridlock a thing of the past
And our journey from the west side will be oh so fast
The H1 will be free
For just you and me
Alas, twas all just a dream that ’til the morning did last
GoBenGo
NoTrainNo
If the train is coming from Italy, Ansaldo, then this article below may be very pertinent!
http://kingworldnews.com/kingworldnews/KWN_DailyWeb/Entries/2012/5/15_Turk_-_Expect_Tremendous_Chaos,_Europe_Deteriorating_Rapidly.html
I voted in the Star-Advertiser poll on whether BC was rude to Inoyue just 5 mins before the deadline of 4 pm. I forgot what the exact numbers were but it was like about 1109 yes & 1800 nos. Then right at the end, I checked & the yes went up 2 to 1111, & nos went up to 1850.
Uncle Ben, it looks like you got a lot of supporters- count me in too!