HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0053.001 2024-20261
TESTIMONY OF DARYN ARAI
before the Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs
Jenn Kagiwada, Chair
Matt Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Vice Chair
DATE: Tuesday, January 7, 2025 =
Aloha, Chair Kagiwada and Vice Chair Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder and Members of the Committee,
SUBJECT: Communication No. 53
Appointment of HUGH Y. ONO as Director of Public Works
I would like to offer my strong support of the appointment of Hugh Y. Ono as the Director of
Public Works.
I have known Mr. Ono ever since my initial hire as a Planner with the Planning Department in
1987. While he was the Chief Engineer of the Department of Public Works, he was kind enough
to take the time to stop what he was doing and introduce himself to me, a kid fresh out of
college. He was very kind and said to call on him if I ever needed anything. That expression of
kindness and support has influenced me ever since, defining the type of County employee I
hoped to be, and that I hoped I accomplished throughout my government career.
Mr. Ono has over a half -century of experience in the engineering field and in various
administrative capacities. This vast amount of experience is invaluable and we should be truly
honored that Mr. Ono is willing to temporarily set aside his well -deserved retirement in order
to serve, once again, the Hawaii Island community.
I guess it should be of no surprise that Mr. Ono, who took the time to look after a young kid
decades ago, would return about 40 years later to look after the infrastructural needs of our
community. He was selfless back then, as he is now.
I respectfully ask for your support of the appointment of Hugh Y. Ono as Director of Public
Works for the County of Hawaii.
With kind regards,
Daryn Arai
PO Box 4501
Hilo, HI 96720
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