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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0200.006 2024-2026 P/2oEc GOHM.203 Patti Cook Box 6960-Kamuela, HI 96743 cookshi anaol.com *808-937-2833 March 30, 2025 Pti-.l ..") V • The Honorable Jenn Kagiwada and Members Hawai'i County Council Governmental Operations and External Affairs Committee (GOEAC) Hearing Tues., April 1 2025 1a . RE: Testimony in Support of Communication No. 200; - : a Nomination of Kawehi Inaba to the Leeward Planning Commission Aloha Chair Kagiwada and Committee Members, Mahalo for this opportunity to address the appointment of Kawehi Inaba to the Leeward Planning Commission. I have spent decades working in education, social justice and community organizing here on Hawaii Island and have had the privilege of witnessing Kawehi Inaba's leadership and community service— conducted with integrity, respect and foresight, and therefore offer my full support for her nomination to the Leeward Planning Commission by Mayor Alameda. I have known Kawehi Inaba for more than 30 years, during which she has launched substantial businesses benefitting our island, led valuable community-based nonprofits, served in public policy positions both for pay and as a volunteer, and— as important- . listened and responded to the needs of everyday families in West Hawaii. Her ability to understand and navigate complex laws and systems while remaining grounded in shared community values is an essential quality for anyone in a planning role. I know you know that planning in Hawaii is not just about zoning and land use - it's about people, place and legacy. It's about ensuring that decisions are thoughtful,just, and sustainable for generations to come. It's complicated and challenging to craft conditions of approval that are fair, reasonable and far-sighted. My observation has been that Kawehi draws on her wide-ranging experience, invests the time needed to be prepared, and conducts herself with respect and transparency, remembering the needs of the entire community, all of which are essential to ensuring public trust in the outcome. She is known to ask the difficult questions—not to avoid them. She also does not shy away from accountability— doing what's right even when it's hard. My one concern is the potential for the appearance of a conflict of interest or bias continually rearing its head given the fact that her son is the Council Member representing Kona. I am not questioning anyone's integrity. It's inevitable that candidates with experience and relevant expertise may at times have potential conflicts or possible bias concerns that must be Comm. �•'4� Ref. To: VI - 2025 Ref. Dave A'_R � recognized, considered and addressed. It's particularly critical when family members are involved. I'm very much of a mind to urge that, if Kawehi Inaba is approved and sworn in as a planning commissioner, both the Commission and Council be very cognizant of perceived concerns and that these be addressed from a legal and procedural standpoint as early in the planning process as possible to protect the integrity of decisions and minimize delays. I do think Kawehi Inaba will serve with integrity and transparency— as does Council member Holeka Inaba—and that this concern can be addressed by following current sunshine and ethics rules, guidelines, policies and procedures in a timely manner. Given this, I support Kawehi Inaba's confirmation Mahalo for your service to the people of Hawai'i County. Patti Cook 2