HomeMy WebLinkAboutREP GOEAC 093 2026-02-03 2024-2026REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON
GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
DATE: February 3, 2026
PLACE: Council Chambers
Hilo, Hawaii
TIME: 9:00 a.m.
Council Chair and Members
Hawaii County Council
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Re: Comm. No. 703
Your Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs, to which was referred
Communication No. 703, reports as follows:
Communication No. 703, transmitted by Mayor C. Kimo Alameda, dated January 15, 2026,
requests the Council's review and confirmation of the nomination of Jennifer L. Lawson to the Public
Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission (PONC).
Executive Assistant to the Mayor, Micah Alameda, was present in the Hilo Chambers to introduce
Ms. Lawson, who was present via remote technology.
Committee Members James E. Hustace and Rebecca Villegas spoke in favor of the appointment.
Committee Chair Jenn Kagiwada stated that she appreciates Ms. Lawson's background and support of
inland preservation, as historically PONC property nominations have been focused on shoreline
properties. Chair Kagiwada mentioned that some boards are being impacted by quorum issues regarding
attendance, and she asked Ms. Lawson if she is aware of the meeting schedule and will be committed to
attending meetings. Ms. Lawson said that was a big consideration for her and that yes, Monday meeting
times work well, and she is planning on attending.
Pursuant to Chapter 2, Section 2-215(a) of the Hawaii County Code, members of the Public Access,
Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission shall be appointed by the Mayor and
confirmed by the Council.
Your Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs is in accord with the purpose
and intent of Communication No. 703, and recommends confirmation of the appointment of
Jennifer L. Lawson to the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission.
slm
AYES
NOES
ABS
EX
GALIMBA
X
HUSTACE
X
INABA
X
KAGIWADA
X
KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER
X
KIERKIEWICZ
X
KIMBALL
X
ONISHI
X
VILLEGAS
X
Respectfully submitted,
COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL
OPERATIONS AND
EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
100010
JENN KAGIWADA, HAIR
GOEAC REPOR NO.: 93
ADOPTED: FEB 1 8 9n96