HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0279.014 2022-2024 P / GOEAG
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From: Jeannette Gurung Q -;
Sent: Thursday, May 11, 2023 2:55 PM '- ` (-)
To: Council Testimony sem.
Subject: Testimony in Support of Bill 48: Creation of the Office of Sustainability,timate, ._;
Equity, and Resilience (OSCER)
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Honorable Members of the Government Operations and External Affairs Committee,
I am writing to express my strong support for Bill 48, which proposes the creation of the Office of Sustainability, Climate,
Equity, and Resilience(OSCER) in Hawai'i County. I believe that this bill is a critical step towards addressing the
challenges posed by climate change, promoting sustainability, and building resilience in our community.
First and foremost,the establishment of OSCER demonstrates a commitment to aligning the County of Hawai'i with
pono priorities, practices, and procedures. By coordinating and managing policies to promote sustainability and
resilience, OSCER will play a pivotal role in mitigating the effects of climate change on our beautiful island.This office will
serve as a catalyst for positive changes, enabling us to make conscious choices that benefit our environment, economy,
and social well-being.
One of the key strengths of Bill 48 is its focus on equity and environmental justice. It is heartening to see that the bill
emphasizes the consideration of impacts on lower-and middle-income individuals, historically marginalized groups, and
aims to ensure that the benefits of the office's programs reach all residents of the county.This commitment to
inclusivity and fairness is commendable and sets an example for other jurisdictions to follow.
The elevation of OSCER to the cabinet level is a strategic move that will enable coordinated action both internally and
externally. By providing the office with the necessary authority and resources, we can foster collaboration and synergy
among different departments and agencies.This integrated approach is vital for effective policy implementation and
achieving meaningful results in sustainability and resilience.
Furthermore, the establishment of a Climate Action Revolving Fund, as proposed in the bill, is a smart and innovative
approach.This fund will support policies and programs that align with the objectives of OSCER while generating cost
savings for the county. By reinvesting these savings into new climate action programs, we can create a self-sustaining
cycle of progress and ensure the long-term success of our sustainability efforts.
I also appreciate the thoughtful design of OSCER, which is based on the collective impact model. This model, with its
emphasis on collaboration, shared metrics, and stakeholder communication, has proven successful in achieving
transformative change. By adopting this model, OSCER will serve as a coordinating and administrative entity,enabling us
to maximize our impact and effectively address the implementation gaps in our sustainability, climate, and resilience
plans.
In conclusion, I firmly believe that the passage of Bill 48 and the establishment of OSCER will position Hawai'i County as
a leader in sustainability, climate change adaptation, and community resilience. By taking proactive measures to protect
our environment and promote equity, we can inspire other jurisdictions and set an example for responsible and
forward-thinking governance.
I urge the Government Operations and External Affairs Committee to support Bill 48 and recommend its passage to the
Hawai'i County Council. Let us embrace this opportunity to safeguard our future, preserve our natural resources, and
create a thriving, sustainable community for generations to come.
Comm. N3. �'l .1 I
1 Ref. To: 1' 1 �/
Ref. note MAY 1 6 2023
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Jeannette
Jeannette Gurung, PhD
Executive Director
WOCAN (Women Organizing for Change in Agriculture and Natural Resource Management)
W+Standard: Winner of the Women for Results Award of the UNFCCC
Www.wocan.org www.wplus.org
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Address:77-6412 Kepano Place, Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Jeannettegurung@wocan.org
808-464-1703
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