HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0044.058 2020-2022 k.
TAKAMINE CONSTRUCTION, INC.
January 4,2021
Re: Testimony in support of Mayor Roth's Cabinet picks
Zendo Kern for Planning Director
Aloha Committee Chair Kierkiewicz, -
My name is Craig Takamine. I am the President of Takamine Construction a local general
contracting firm that my wife Audrey and I founded in 2003.Being born and raised in Hilo, I
have a great appreciation for our island values,our local culture, and the natural beauty of
Hawai'i Island. Having a successful business has allowed us to give back to the community,
whenever possible, in various ways to continue to try and make our home a special place to live
not only for us,but for our children. That desire to make Hawai'i Island a better place to live and
work is the reason I am asking you to support Mr. Zendo Kern's appointment as the Planning
Director for the County of Hawai'i.
There has been sharp criticism in the media by a few outspoken individuals which I believe is
unwarranted. I've known Zendo for many years, dating back to the early 2000's when he was a
General Contractor. Zendo is an honest,extremely hard working, outside of the box thinker
which is what the Planning Department needs at this time. To those that have been overly
critical, I will have to argue that the residents of our island voted Mitch Roth into office as
Mayor because they desperately wanted a change in leadership.They should trust that he and his
team have thoroughly vetted all Cabinet members. There should also be no question whether any
of the appointees meet the minimum qualifications,especially Zendo,who not only has the
responsible planning experience but real-world private sector experience along with experience
as a Council member.
It is for all the reasons mentioned above that I strongly support Zendo Kern and urge you to do
the same.
Mahalo,
Craig S. Takamine
President
Takamine Construction, Inc.
1266 Kamehameha Avenue,Suite C + Hilo,Hawaii 96720 • Phone 808-961-9090 � .
comm. No
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Ref. Dote j'A',N 5 2021