HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0097.012 2024-2026COUNTY COUNCIL
County of Hawaii
Hawaii County Building
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Aloha e Chair Jenn Kagiwada and Members of the Committee on Governmental Operations and
External Affairs:
I am honored to submit this testimony in enthusiastic support of the appointment of Laura
Acasio as Administrator for the County of Hawai`Vs Office of Sustainability, Climate,
Equity, and Resilience. As a deeply committed public servant, advocate, and environmental
leader, Laura possesses the expertise, leadership, and passion necessary to lead this vital office
and drive forward Hawaii County's sustainability and climate resilience goals.
With over two decades of experience in environmental stewardship, social equity, and public
service, Laura has consistently demonstrated her ability to develop policies, implement
programs, and foster collaboration across diverse sectors. Her tenure as a Hawaii State Senator
underscores her ability to navigate complex policy landscapes, secure funding for climate
initiatives, and advocate for equity -driven sustainability solutions. Moreover, her current role as
an Environmental Management Commissioner for the County of Hawaii further highlights her
ability to oversee and advise on key environmental policies that align with the County's
sustainability vision.
Beyond policy leadership, Laura brings a strong foundation in community engagement,
Environmental Justice, and `Oiwi cultural stewardship. Her work as an educator, restoration
coordinator, and advocate for `Oiwi knowledge integration reflects a holistic approach to
sustainability that centers the voices of local communities and prioritizes culturally responsive
solutions. Laura has successfully built cross -sector partnerships, led grassroots sustainability
efforts, and designed educational programs that inspire future generations to take climate action.
Having had the privilege of working as Laura's Legislative Aide while she served as a State
Senator, I witnessed firsthand the strength of her leadership and resolute commitment to the
people of Hawaii. She consistently acted with integrity, always choosing what was best for the
people she served while embodying compassion, respect, perseverance, kindness, and
authenticity. Laura's humility, fortitude, and unshakable dedication to our `aina sets her apart as
a leader who leads by example.
As a leader who leads by example, Laura does more than advocate for sustainable change but
actively works to create it. Whether it be standing in allyship with `Oiwi, securing funding for
environmental initiatives, or navigating complex legislative challenges, Laura always approaches
her work with a profound sense of responsibility and care. She understands that the decisions
made today will shape the future of Hawaii. I do not doubt that her influence will continue to
benefit the people of Hawaii for generations to come.
As climate change poses an increasingly urgent threat to Hawaii, the need for strong, principled
leadership has never been greater. Laura is exactly the kind of leader we need — one who
understands the science and policy of environmental sustainability yet recognizes the importance
of equity, cultural respect, and long-term resilience for our `dina and the people of Hawaii. Her
ability to bring people together, inspire action, and implement meaningful change makes her the
ideal candidate to lead the Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience.
For these reasons, I strongly urge the selection of Laura Acasio as Administrator for the County
of Hawai`i's Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience. Laura's experience,
leadership, and genuine commitment to Hawaii make her an ideal candidate to guide the County
toward a more sustainable, just, and climate -resilient future.
Mahalo nui loa,
474�-
Dr. Melemaikalani Moniz
JD, LLM, and Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD)