HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0097.008 2024-2026County Council of Hawaii
Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs
Meeting on February 4, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.
Testimony in FAVOR of Appointing Laura Acasio
Aloha mai kakou,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend Laura Acasio for the Administrator position at the
Hawaii County Office of Sustainability, Climate Equity, and Resilience. As a former staff
member in her Senate office, I had the privilege of witnessing her exceptional leadership, ever -
expansive knowledge, and innate compassion. Laura was actively engaged with her constituents
and inclusive of everyone's input and perspectives. Moreover, she inspired me to do my best,
and the whole team to be highly productive.
In the Senate, Laura successfully navigated complex political landscapes while maintaining
strong, positive relationships with people of all backgrounds and perspectives. She is adept at
finding common ground and building consensus, even in challenging situations. This skill is
crucial for the Administrator position, as it requires engaging with a range of stakeholders to
achieve sustainability and resilience goals.
Another remarkable quality of Laura's was her commitment to doing her homework. She was
never satisfied with superficial knowledge, always diving deep into complex issues to gain a
comprehensive understanding. Before any committee meetings or policy debates, she would
thoroughly research the topic, ensuring she was fully prepared and able to engage in meaningful
discussions. She would consult with experts, review relevant data, and consider all sides of the
issue. Her ability to quickly absorb information and understand complex systems would serve
her well in the role of Administrator.
As a State Senator, Laura Acasio not only championed environmental policies but also worked
tirelessly to secure funding for initiatives that mitigated climate impacts. She was particularly
attuned to making sure environmental, cultural, and social goals aligned She was also
particularly adept at facilitating grant acquisition. I have no doubt that Laura's leadership skills,
collaborative nature, and dedication to thorough preparation will make her a highly effective and
successful Administrator for the Office of Sustainability, Climate Equity, and Resilience. She
has a deep passion for the work and the skills required to succeed.
I wholeheartedly recommend Laura Acasio for this position.
Sincerely,
9�—
Jacqueline Lasky
Former Staff Member
Office of Senator Laura Acasio