HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0279.111 2022-2024 p /Council
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COMM. 279
From: Megan Lamson r
Sent: Monday, June 19, 2023 8:15 AM E= :-
To: Council Testimony — w;
Subject: Testimony for Wed 6/21 in SUPPORT of Bill 48 (draft 2)
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19 June 2023
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Aloha kakou (Honorable Members of the Hawaii County Council),
I am writing to express our strong support for Bill 48, which proposes the creation of the Office of
Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience (OSCER) in Hawaii County on behalf of a small
local conservation NGO.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. Hawaii Wildlife Fund
supports this bill and its goals, and believes that it is a necessary step for Hawaii County to take in order
to achieve the goal of true environmental (justice)sustainability.
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.
Thank you for supporting Bill 48 in the first reading at Council this week on Wednesday, June
21st and in the County budget.We urge your continued support of Bill 48 and recommend its passage to
the Hawaii County Council. Let us embrace this opportunity to safeguard our future,preserve our n/att 1
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resources, and create a thriving, sustainable community for generations to come.
Thank you for your time and attention to this important matter!
Best,
Megan
<"))))« <"))))« <"D))« »(((*> <"))))«
Megan R.Lamson Leatherman,M.S.
HAWAI`I WILDLIFE FUND
Hawaii Island Program Director
PO Box 1801,Kealakekua HI 96750
e: meg.HWF@gmail.com or meganOwildhawaii.org
http://www.wildhawaii.org/
debris hotline 808/769-7629
meg cell 808/217-5777
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