Video courtesy Hawaii County | Voice of Stephanie Salazar

When Governor Neil Abercrombie toured the tsunami damages on the Big Island a few weeks ago, he stopped by the county council meeting, where re-assured councilmembers that he was on top of the situation.

Ka’u councilwoman Brittany Smart used the opportunity to remind the governor that Pahala has been waiting for its emergency disaster shelter for some time.

The $20 million building will be located next to the Kau High School and will double as the school gym. The funding would come from a state bond float.