HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0200.008 2024-2026 f 100EAG
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From: Scott Dodd
Sent: Monday, March 31, 2025 9:59 AM
To: Council Testimony; Inaba, Holeka; Onishi, Dennis; Kimball, Heather; Kagiwada,Jennifer;
Kierkiewicz, Ashley; Galimba, Michelle M.;Villegas, Rebecca; Kanealii-Kleinfelder, Matt;
Hustace, James
Subject: Inaba Leeward Planning Commission
RE: Comm. 200: Nomination of Rebecca Kawehi Inaba to the Leeward Planning Commissigr
Aloha County Council Members,
I am writing in strong support of Mayor Kimo Alameda's nomination of Kawehi Inaba to serve on the
Leeward Planning Commission. °•
I had the honor of working closely with Kawehi and her team during the height of the COVID-19
pandemic,when the need for coordinated, compassionate leadership was at an all-time high.Through
her role at La'i'opua 2020, Kawehi partnered with our team at the Luana Group to implement a large-
scale meal distribution program that provided thousands of hot, nourishing meals to families across
West Hawaii each week.What began as an emergency response quickly evolved into a model of
resilience, community collaboration, and cultural care—all thanks to Kawehi's vision and leadership.
She understood that this effort was about more than just food—it was about feeding the soul of a
community in crisis. By mobilizing resources, supporting local restaurants, and building trust across
multiple sectors, she ensured that the initiative served both immediate needs and long-term
relationships. Her ability to bring people together, navigate logistics, and lead with humility was nothing
short of extraordinary.
I have also had the privilege of working with Kawehi through her consulting firm, Kupa'a
Business Planners. Her support has provided clarity, strategic direction, and a genuine sense of
care to our business. Kawehi has the unique ability to meet clients exactly where they are,
offering gentle guidance and heartfelt support as they grow with integrity and intention. Her
consulting style—Like her leadership—is deeply rooted in aloha, accountability, and a true
desire to see others succeed.
Kawehi brings that same heart and depth of skill to everything she does. She listens deeply, leads
thoughtfully, and acts with a clear sense of kuleana to both people and place. Her experience in
nonprofit leadership, community development, business strategy, and local government uniquely
position her to serve on the Leeward Planning Commission with the kind of balance and integrity this role
requires.
Planning for the future of Hawaii Island calls for leaders who understand the importance of cultural
grounding, economic sustainability, and community voice. Kawehi Inaba embodies all of that—and
more.
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It is with great respect and confidence that I offer my testimony in support of her nomination.
Warmest regards,
Scott Dodd
Luana Hospitality Group
www.luanagroup.com
Scott Dodd
808-987-7895
scott@luanagroup.com
2 •