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October 7, 2025 j
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Aloha Council Chair Inaba and Members of the Hawaii County Council, t j
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Mauna Kea Resort, in partnership with representatives from the County of Hawaii, assembled a
group of farmers, food hubs, resort purchasing professionals, and other local community members
to form The Hawaii County Agriculture Steering committee. Our mission is to foster productive
relationships between the various stakeholders to improve access to local produce by supporting
local farmers and other producers and growing our reliance on local produced goods and services.
The event featured panel discussions, table driven activities, and a Pau Hana meet and great with
delicious pupus prepared by the Westin Hapuna culinary team - all featuring locally grown and
sourced products.
During the panel discussions the resorts shared empirical data on their commitments to
supporting local agriculture. As an example, Mauna Kea and Hapuna purchase more than 60% of
their produce from local growers and suppliers establishing a collegial "how can we all do better"
challenge. The spirit of this competition continues today amongst the resorts, each looking to
exceed the other in their support for local agriculture.
While the competition is friendly, it underscores the importance of the commitment to purchasing
locally. This focus amongst the resorts supports our local farmers, and regenerative tourism
practices. We continue to use the steering committee and attendees from the event to promote
knowledge, increase buying and bring the flow of information between producers and buyers to
each other. We have exciting upcoming events focused on farms tours, and a resort dine around to
showcase our local farmers and continue to bring the community together.
We appreciate the Council's efforts in support of these grass roots efforts by county officials and the
private sector to improve awareness and engagement with local farmers, producers and suppliers.
Mahalo-for your attention.
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Ref. To:
Ref. Date OCT - R 9094
62-100 Kauna'oa Drive, Kohala Coast, Hawaii 967431 phone 808.882.72221 fax 808.882.5700 1 MaunaKeaResort.corn