REP GOEAC 044 2025-06-17 2024-2026

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REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS DATE: June 17, 2025 PLACE: Council Chambers Kailua-Kona, Hawaii TIME: 9:00 a.m. Council Chair and Members Hawaii County Council Hilo, Hawaii 96720 Re: Comm. No. 348 Your Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs, to which was referred Communication No. 348, reports as follows: Communication No. 348, transmitted by Mayor C. Kimo Alameda, dated May 29, 2025, requests the Council's review and confirmation of the nomination of Abel P. Aquino to the Game Management Advisory Commission. Executive Assistant to the Mayor Micah Alameda was present in the Kona Chambers to introduce Mr. Aquino, who was also present via remote technology, to the Committee. Committee Member James Hustace asked Mr. Aquino about the Wa`a program he has been involved in through the Nakoa Foundation. Mr. Aquino discussed the work he's done through this nonprofit organization regarding building and 3D printing canoes and paddles. He also spoke on the benefits to the 16-20 students. Their program has taken on five-day voyages along the Kona coast. He also talked about coral restoration work that he has done. Committee Member Dennis "Fresh" Onishi said that much of the time the County Game Management Advisory Commission runs into issues regarding what they can and cannot do, as much of their proposals requires the State to take additional action. Member Onishi wanted to know Mr. Aquino's perspective on this issue. Mr. Aquino said that he has a relationship with Senator Dru Kanuha and that he would work with him as well at the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR). Mr. Aquino stated that self -stocking the fishponds is another way that fishers can engage in self sufficiency and help assist DLNR in the work they do. Member Onishi asked Mr. Aquino about his opinion on the DLNR aerial sheep shootings. Mr. Aquino said he believes it is wasteful, and that it could be done in a more sustainable manner regarding fencing them in so that more of the meat could be used rather than the method they are currently employing. Committee Member Ashley Kierkiewicz said that she witnessed members of the Game Management Advisory Commission attend opening day at the State Legislature and believes it is important to develop this relationship and communication between State and County and encouraged Mr. Aquino to attend if he is appointed to this Commission. Committee Member Matt Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder asked Mr. Aquino what his opinion is about a gun range for our County. Mr. Aquino said that it needs to be well -maintained and that a nice GOEAC Report No. 44