Leeward Planning Commission Fact Sheet May 2026

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LEEWARD PLANNING COMMISSION MAY 2026 Purpose: To advise the Mayor, Council and Planning Director in all matters concerning planning and land use matters; to review and make recommendations regarding the General Plan, subdivision and zoning ordinances and other planning rules and regulations; to establish planning rules and regulations and to conduct public hearings, with jurisdiction over the area consisting of the judicial districts of North Kohala, South Kohala, North Kona, and South Kona. Authority: Hawaii County Charter, Section 6-7.5. Appointment: Mayor with Council confirmation. Five-year staggered terms. Full Membership: Seven members. Additionally, Director of Public Works and Manager of Department of Water Supply, or their designated representatives, serve as ex-officio members without power to vote. Specific Representation: One member from each of the judicial districts of North Kohala, South Kohala, North Kona and South Kona and three "at-large" members selected from these districts. Not more than two members may be appointed from the same judicial district. Requirements: Not more than four members shall belong to the same political party. Meetings: Regular meetings are held at least once a month on the Leeward side of Hawaii Island. Special meetings can be scheduled as needed. Financial Disclosure: Members must file Financial Disclosure within 20 working days of taking the oath of office. Thereafter, annual disclosures must be filed on or before January 31. The disclosures are confidential and will be kept on file by the Board of Ethics. County Code, Chapter 2, Section 2-91.1. Reappointment: Following the expiration of a term, no member may be reappointed for at least two years. However, members appointed for a term of two years or less shall be eligible to succeed themselves for an additional full term. Qualities: Respected by the community as being community-minded and oriented. Able to focus on the community needs as a whole without catering to special or self-interest. Current Members: Name, Term Expiration Date, and Judicial District AU, Dean (12/31/28)—Chair S. Kohala NOBORIKAWA, Donna "Kinuko" (12/31/27)—Vice Chair N. Kohala AYERS, Alexandria "Lexie" (12/31/29) S. Kona VACANT (12/31/30) At Large-S. Kohala MAKAIAU, Kele (12/31/30) N. Kona INABA, Rebecca "Kawehi" (12/31/29) At Large-N. Kona RODRIGUEZ, Armando (12/31/27) At Large-S. Kona Secretary/Contact Person: Kareen Medeiros (808) 323-4783 Attorney Assigned: William Jarrett, Deputy Corporation Counsel *The information on this sheet is condensed. For full information see appropriate Sections of the County Charter, County Code and/or Hawaii Revised Statutes.