MAYOR HANNEMANN REVIEWS ECONOMIC STIMULUS WITH VICE PRESIDENT BIDEN

May 28, 2009 – Mayor Mufi Hannemann today thanked Vice President Joseph Biden for $90 million Honolulu is receiving through the federal economic stimulus package, and called for stronger communication links to ensure the City maximizes its opportunities for such assistance.

“I expressed concern about the flow of information to local governments regarding funding opportunities and the changes that are often made,” said Hannemann, who joined four other U.S. mayors on a conference call with Biden. “I was very pleased that Vice President Biden provided this opportunity today on behalf of the Obama Administration, and that he pledged that we will have continued conversations about Honolulu’s experience with the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.”

Biden announced that a new website is being constructed with additional information that will be easier to navigate. The comprehensive new website is expected to go live at the end of the summer, Biden told Hannemann.

Approximately $90 million has been allocated to Honolulu through the ARRA for a variety of public safety and infrastructure needs. The City will seek additional money through competitive grants.

“We will continue to seek federal funding for important projects and needs in our community,” Hannemann said. “I am committed to working cooperatively with our federal partners and the State to maximize this wonderful opportunity to stimulate our local economy.” 

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Media contact: Bill Brennan, Mayor’s Office, 768-6928