HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0200.028 2024-2026 P/eOEAc
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From: Eric von Platen Luder
Sent: Monday, March 31, 2025 10:36 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: Comm. 200: Nomination of Rebecca Kawehi Inaba to the Leeward Planning,
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Aloha County Council Members, -- {71
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I am writing in strong support of Mayor Kimo Alameda's nomination
of Kawehilnaba to serve on the Leeward Planning Commission. ED ---
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, Kawehipartnered 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 Hawai'i 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. Comm. o
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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 Hawai'i Island calls for leaders who understand the
importance of cultural grounding, economic sustainability, and community
voice. Kawehi Inaba embodies all of that—and more.
It is with great respect and confidence that I offer my testimony in support of her
nomination.
Mahalo,
7 Eric von Platen Luder
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