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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0279.022 2022-2024 P /CiOEAC, 148 COMM.2?q From: media Sent: Saturday, May 13, 2023 1:53 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Support for Bill 48 Honorable Members of the Government Operations and External Affairs Committee, 9E We are writing to express our strong support for Bill 48, which proposes the creation of the Office of Sustaivaability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience(OSCER) in Hawaii County. We 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 Hawaii 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. We 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, we firmly believe that the passage of Bill 48 and the establishment of OSCER will position Hawaii 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. We urge the Government Operations and External Affairs Committee to support Bill 48 and recommend its passage to the Hawaii 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. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, Jeff and Wendy Haun L!q. LL Comm. No. � �v 1 Ref. To: C Ref. Date MAY 1 6 2023 PO Box 248 Hakalau, HI 96710 media©outofthesea.com 808-961-4742 2