Message to Supporters from Djou Campaign    July 24, 2016

This week our City government mailed two very important documents:  your property tax bill and your absentee ballot (for those of you who are registered to vote by mail).  The two in many ways represent what we are fighting for in this election.

As you know, I only declared my candidacy for mayor 6 weeks ago.  But even before that, and especially now since we started this campaign, I have heard from so many people their very real concerns over the cost overruns for this rail project.  Many are seniors on fixed incomes who are very concerned that they will be forced to sell their homes if the City raises real property taxes to fund the rail cost overruns.  They don't live in fancy houses, but like many in Hawaii, their property valuation is high, because of where they live. 

I have heard from so many people, who grew up here and want to raise their kids here, but the cost of living is high and there isn't enough affordable housing.  Every increase in the general excise tax takes a little bit more from their family budget.

I know we can do better. Instead of asking the people to pay for every rail cost increase, I believe City government can work harder at managing the rail project better.  I've even heard from rail contractors, who refuse to speak publicly because of fear of retribution, who say that there is a tremendous amount of waste.

Hawaii is a precious and beautiful place, but I truly believe in my heart, that if we don't do something now, to change our City government, that the damage will be irreparable.  We cannot allow this rail project to go from $5.2 billion to $11 billion.  If we do, we will be sacrificing core City services and the people of Honolulu will foot the bill for the cost increases.  That's why we're fighting so hard to win this race in the Primary.

If you believe as I do that these billions of dollars in rail cost overruns, if allowed to continue, will financially ruin our city and hurt those in our community who can least afford it  -- please help me now.  It's very expensive to run a campaign. Your contribution can help us pay for the following:

• $25 will help us purchase 12 yard signs
• $50 will help us send 100 pieces of mail directly to voters
• $100 will help us purchase a Facebook ad
• $250 will help us purchase one 30-second radio ad
• $1,000 will help us purchase one 30-second TV ad on the 6pm news

• Stop any tax increases to pay for the rail cost overruns
• Ensure EMS services can be provided to every community on Oahu
• Restore accreditation for the Honolulu Zoo
• Reestablish a sense of ethics and trust at City government