HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0200.010 2024-2026 P/eOEAG
GOMM.2OJ
April 1, 2025
Testimony to the Committee on Governmental Operations
and External Affairs, Hawaii County Council ' µ"
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In Support of Comm. 200: Nomination of Kawehi Inaba
to the Leeward Planning Commission -.
Aloha Chair Kagiwada, Vice Chair Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder, and Members of the Committee,
I offer this testimony in support of Mayor Kimo Alameda's nomination of Kawehi Inaba to
serve on the Leeward Planning Commission.
I had the privilege of working closely with Kawehi during her time leading the County's
Department of Research & Development.As part of the late Mayor Billy Kenoi's
executive team, I witnessed firsthand Kawehi's dedication to building strong,
community-driven economic development initiatives that were thoughtful, impactful, and
rooted in a deep love for Hawaii Island and its people.
Kawehi leads with aloha and a strong sense of her kuleana. From her days of fearless
entrepreneurship to her current dedication to community endeavors, she has a gift for
building trust across diverse stakeholders and ensuring that decisions are inclusive and
aligned with local values. Her continued work with La'i'opua 2020 reflects this same
commitment.
As a resident of Kona, I know that Kawehi's perspective will be a valuable addition to
the Leeward Planning Commission: balanced, experienced, and culturally grounded.
She understands that planning on Hawaii Island is about honoring the past, responding
to the present, and protecting the future.
Mahalo for the opportunity to share this testimony in support of Kawehi's nomination.
T. Ilihia Gionson
Chief Public Affairs Officer, W. M. Keck Observatory
Former Public Affairs Officer, Hawaii Tourism Authority
Former Executive Assistant, Office of Mayor Billy Kenoi
Comm. U
Ref. To: I tour,
Ref. n ee APR - 2025