REP AWEEMC 005 2019/04/09 2018-2020

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AWEEMC-5 Page 3 April 9,2019 Committee Vice Chair Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder asked Nominee Burns to share his top three environmental concerns. Nominee Burns replied that the only way to answer would be that being focused on our benthic marine habitat is his number one focus, as that it is a huge resource, a food source, and an economic source. Although he aims to remain an optimist, he has seen a lot of problems arise; some very difficult to manage, for example, global issues, change in climate and wind patterns which are producing visible changes in the marine environments daily. On the other hand,there are areas where change can be implemented, for example,how we manage our waste,how we manage our coastal development, and how we contain our energy in a manner wherein no further harm is being done to these important habitats. Actionable changes are necessary, and the time is now. Nominee Burns share that this was evident is his experience working at Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument wherein many impacts are evident; once a habitat is gone, it will take a very long time to revitalize, if at all. Nominee Burns again reiterated that the time to be proactive and look for solutions is now. Council Member Eoff shared her appreciation to Nominee Burn for his willingness to serve on the Commission and commended him for his outstanding educational background and his community service. She also noted that he would be a great asset and addition to the other environmentally sound commissioners. Council Member Eoff also thanked Mayor Kim for such a great recommendation and noted her support for this nomination. Council Member Villegas commended Nominee Burns for his list of accomplishments and education. She was excited to see the collaborative work with the University of Hawai`i at Hilo as they have exceptional scientists and professors on staff who genuinely care about our island's needs. She noted that she receives many emails from various professors there asking for access to perform water tests in her district. Lastly she shared her appreciation for his position to remain an optimist in the world of science where facts sometimes dim the optimistic focus. Council Chair Chung commented on how impressed he was in hearing Nominee Burns speak; obviously very knowledgeable in his field of expertise, however by his answers provided indicated that he is a sensible, open and an engaging individual. He further noted that having good communication skills like he observed in Nominee Burns is very important while serving on our County's Boards and Commissions. Council Chair Chung thanked Nominee Burns for stepping up to the task and acknowledged his support to the nomination today. Committee Chair Richards, echoing Council Chair Chung's comments,noted the thoughtfulness in Nominee Burns' answers, and his optimistic outlook. He stated that he was further impressed by the answer involving `critical thinking' as the County of Hawaii is at a decision making time and critical thinking is exactly what it will take to move our County forward on some serious topics involving this Committee on Agriculture, Water, Energy, and Environmental Management. Committee Chair Richards noted that his and Vice Chair Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder's intention with this committee is to seek the expertise of the EMC and that they look forward to working with Nominee Burns going forward. Committee Chair Richards thanked Nominee Burns for his willingness to serve and provided his support in his nomination. Committee Chair Richards advised that due to Nominee Burns' appearance and approval today, it was not required for him to attend the upcoming confirmation Council meeting. AWEEMC Report No.: 5