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wocan 7013 JUN 19 AM 10: 08
Women Organizing for Change in Agriculture
and Natural Resource Management
19 June 2023
Testimony in Support of Bill 48: Creation of the Office of Sustainability, Climate,
Equity,and Resilience(OSCER)
Honorable Members of the Hawaii County Council,
I am writing to express on behalf of my organization,the strongest possible support for Bill 48,
which proposes the creation of the Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience
(OSCER) in Hawaii 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 Hawaii with pono priorities, practices, and procedures. By coordinating and
managing policies to promote sustainability and resilience,such as local food security and green
energy, OSCER will play a pivotal role in mitigating the effects of any catastrophic or
destabilizing events 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,
independence,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 focus on resilience in this bill. Our island is extremely isolated and very
dependent on outside resources. By promoting food security and green local energy we can do
much to achieve self-reliance and resilience in the coming years.
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 in the State, as well as nationally and even globally. 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 ,Q1
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Ref: Date AU . 2 120233
Thank you for supporting Bill 48 in the Committee on Governmental Operations and External
Affairs and in the County budget. I urge your continued support of 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.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Yours sincerely,
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Jeannette Gurung,PhD
Executive Director
77-6412 Kepano Place
Kailua Kona,HI 96740
jeannettegurung@wocan.org
808-464-1703
77-6412 Kepano Pl.
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
USA
www.wocan.org
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