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Sent: Monday, May 15, 2023 11:10 AM
To: Hannah Hartmann
Cc: Council Testimony
Subject: Re: Testimony in SUPPORT for Bill 48
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From: Hannah Hartmann
Sent: Monday, May 15, 2023 9:38:45 AM
To:Council Remote Testimony
Subject:Testimony in SUPPORT for Bill 48
Aloha e County Council,
I am testifying today on behalf of HULI PAC,an organization that supports pono decision making by our
leadership. Decisions that uplift and benefit all the communities here in Hawai`i nei.
I am testifying today in overwhelming SUPPORT of Bill 48 relating to the creation of the Office of
Sustainability,Climate, Equity,and Resilience(OSCER).
Hawai`i County has made a clear commitment to move towards sustainability and resilience in the face of
climate change in an equitable manner. It is no coincidence that the name of this office hits all four of those
priorities.
It's also no secret that departments within the county are stretched thin,and this often impacts communication
between them.This office will significantly improve the flow of information between county departments.
By passing Bill 48,you will ensure our moku(island)not only reaches the state's sustainability objectives,but
achieves these climate goals well before 2050.
OSCER will also be tasked with developing benchmarks and metrics to track and communicate progress.This
is not only great for governmental transparency and educating the public,but if there are any doubts in the
office and their processes,it can be used as a tool for accountability.
While this bill does include"regular"stakeholder engagement, I urge the county to make sure the definition of
"regular"is at least monthly.
I sincerely ask the County Council to ensure OSCER gets all of the personnel,financial,and political support it
needs to be great.This office has the potential to drastically help Hawaii island move closer to a sustainable
future for generations to come.
Mahalo for the opportunity to testify. n Q
Comm. Eti L1 `. 21
1 Ref. To: PEC
Ref. Oat_ MA'! 1 6 2023
Hannah Hartmann
HULIPAC Communications Chair
96721
Hannah R. Hartmann
Master of Science Student
Tropical Conservation Biology and Environmental Science
University of Hawai'i at Hilo
https://www.redhillpledge.com/
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