HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0279.074 2022-2024 P / council
6iU1 us
03411 271
From: Vanessa Ruderman
Sent: Tuesday,June 06, 2023 1:42 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Support of Bill 48
Honorable Members of the Hawaii County Council,
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.
This office will serve as a catalyst for positive changes, enabling us to make conscious choices that benefit our
environment and economy.
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 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.
I urge the County Council 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.
rvJ ( ?
Thank you for your attention to this matter. ,..
Vanessa Ruderman W ."=moi
C7
Comm. No ilq•1-1
p
Ref. To: P� l
1 Ref. Dote JOIN — 7 2023