Decision 2016

VOTERS’ GUIDE TO THE 2016 PRIMARY ELECTION

The Maui News / TERRIE ELIKER design

• LEGISLATIVE RACES • COUNTY COUNCIL RACES

Kaniela Ing, Deidre Tegarden

South Maui’s 11th House seat is a primary hot contest A Supplement of THE MAUI NEWS – Sunday, July 17, 2016 – Page S1

2016 Primar y Election Candidates U.S. Senator American Shopping party ■ John M. (Raghu) Giuffre Constitution party ■ Joy J. Allison Democrat ■ Makani Christensen ■ Tutz Honeychurch ■ Arturo Reyes ■ Brian Schatz* ■ Miles Shiratori Republican ■ John Carroll ■ Karla (Bart) Gottschalk ■ Eddie Pirkowski ■ John P. Roco Libertarian ■ Michael A. Kokoski

U.S. Representative, District 2 Democrat ■ Shay Chan Hodges ■ Tulsi Gabbard*

Republican ■ Eric Hafner ■ Angela Aulani Kaaihue

House District 10

House District 13

(West Maui-Maalaea-North Kihei)

Nonpartisan ■ Richard L. Turner

Democrat ■ Angus L.K. McKelvey*

(Haiku-Paia-East Maui Molokai-Lanai)

Senate District 5

Republican ■ Chayne Marten

(Wailuku-Waihee-Kahului) Democrat ■ Gil S. Coloma Keith-Agaran*

House District 8 (Wailuku-Kahakuloa-Waihee Waiehu-Puuohala-Waikapu)

Democrat ■ Kaniela Ing* ■ Deidre M. Tegarden

House District 12

Republican ■ Gilbert (Gil) Rebolledo

House District 9 (Kahului-Puunene Old Sand Hills-Maui Lani)

Green ■ Nick Nikhilananda

(Kihei-Wailea-Makena)

Republican ■ Daniel A. (Danny) Pekus

Democrat ■ Richard E. Abbett ■ Joe Souki (incumbent)

Democrat ■ Justin H. Woodson*

House District 11

Democrat ■ Lynn DeCoite* ■ Alex Haller

(Spreckelsville-PukalaniMakawao-Kula-Keokea Ulupalakua-Kahului) Democrat ■ Tiare Lawrence ■ Kyle T. Yamashita*

Maui County Council East Maui ■ Robert (Bob) Carroll* ■ Shane Sinenci West Maui ■ Ernest Z. Kanamu Balinbin ■ Elle Cochran* Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu ■ Alika Atay ■ Joseph G. Blackburn II ■ Dain P. Kane ■ Keith A. Regan ■ Hana S. Steel

Kahului ■ Don S. Guzman* ■ Vanessa A. Medeiros South Maui ■ Don Couch* ■ Richard DeLeon ■ Kelly Takaya King ■ Jerome V. (Tiger) Metcalfe Makawao-Haiku-Paia ■ Trinette K. Furtado ■ Alan D. Kaufman ■ Mike White* Upcountry ■ Napua Greig-Nakasone ■ Eric John Molina ■ Stacey Suemi Moniz ■ Yuki Lei Kashiwa Sugimura Lanai ■ Riki Hokama ■ Gabe Johnson Molokai ■ Stacy Helm Crivello ■ Keani Rawlins-Fernandez

A Supplement of THE MAUI NEWS – Sunday, July 17, 2016 – Page S2

Office of Hawaiian Affairs Hawaii island resident trustee ■ Bo V. (Craig) Kahui ■ Robert K. (Bob) Lindsey Jr.* ■ Mililani B. Trask Molokai resident trustee ■ Jerry (Manuwa) Flowers ■ Alapai Hanapi ■ Colette (Pipi‘i) Machado* Kauai resident trustee ■ Dan Ahuna* At-large trustee ■ Keli‘i Akina ■ Daniel K. Anthony ■ Haunani Apoliona* ■ Douglas E. Crum ■ Leona Mapuana Kalima ■ Keali‘i Makekau ■ Paul Ledwith Mossman (* = incumbent)

State House of Representatives candidates All candidates were asked to answer this question: What is your opinion of the Legislature’s handling of state employees affected by the privatization of Maui Memorial Medical Center, Kula Hospital and Lanai Community Hospital? Do you think a bill passed to compensate the employees is fair to employees and taxpayers, and how would it affect the state’s pension system?

8th House (Wailuku-Waikapu-Waihee) Maui County’s economy rests on the health of its visitor industry. In good times, businesses and residents reap the rewards and cope with the demands visitors place on island infrastructure. In downturns, jobs are lost or cut back, and there are ripples throughout the economy. What do you think should be done now to prepare Maui for the next downturn?

11th House (South Maui) Do you think enough progress has been made on the new Kihei high school? Do you think advocacy for this long-sought-after project could be improved? If so, how?

ber of the House since 2012, will face protocol consultant Deidre Tegarden, who worked as chief of protocol for former Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Gov. David Ige, for the House District 11 seat (Kihei, Wailea and Makena). The primary winner will advance to the general election and meet Republican Daniel Pekus. ≤ Rep. Lynn DeCoite, a Molokai farmer who was appointed to the House in February 2015, will take on substitute teacher Alex Haller for the House District 13 seat (Haiku, Paia, East Maui, Molokai and Lanai). The winner will go on to face Green Party candidate Nick Nikhilananda.

13th House (East Maui, Molokai, Lanai) What do you think of the way the Legislature handled last session’s controversy over Alexander & Baldwin’s continued access to stream water for its irrigation system?

Looking ahead, what could or should be done to achieve a balance among competing interests for stream water?

Four Democrats face primary challenges for House seats aui County voters will see four Democratic primary races for state House of Representative seats on Aug. 13, and none for the state Senate.

The only Maui County state senator facing re-election this year is Central Maui Democrat Sen. Gil Keith-Agaran, and he is unopposed. Maui’s two other senators — Sens. Roz Baker (West and South Maui) and J. Kalani English (East Maui, Upcountry, Molokai and Lanai) — are halfway through their four-year terms.

In the House, only Democratic Rep. Justin Woodson (9th District, Kahului, Puunene, Old Sand Hills and Maui Lani) gets a free pass this election year, with no opponents challenging his re-election.

And, there will be no primary contests in the West Maui 10th House District where incumbent Rep. Angus McKelvey is unopposed for the Democratic Party nomination. But, on Nov. 8, he’ll face a general election challenge from Republican Chayne Marten, also is unchallenged for

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into voting booths as an aid in casting ballots.

For this publication, candidates filled out and returned a questionnaire seeking biogoday’s Maui News election suppleraphical information, and they shared their ment features state House of Represen- views on key issues. Candidates who autotatives and Maui County Council candimatically advance to the Nov. 8 general dates in contested primary races. These are election will be featured in another Maui partisan state races and nonpartisan county News supplement published before that contests. contest.

This voter guide helps residents make Continue reading The Maui News for informed decisions as they exercise their more primary election coverage. right to vote. Recognizing a trend toward Copies of this guide can be requested at more mail-in and walk-in absentee votes, the front desk of The Maui News offices at this supplement is coming out earlier than 100 Mahalani St. in Wailuku. Copies cost usual. Now, voters can take this home or 50 cents.

Editor’s note: 12th House (Upcountry) Do you think the Legislature has been a good steward for Hawaii’s environment?

Why or why not?

For candidate questions, all were asked: What is your opinion of the Legislature’s handling of state employees affected by the privatization of Maui Memorial Medical Center, Kula Hospital and Lanai Community Hospital? How do you think a bill passed to compensate the employees is fair to employees and taxpayers, and how would it affect the state’s pension system?

A second question for each candidate varied, depending on the House district seat being sought.

For biographical sketches and candidate

About Election 2016

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his party’s nomination.

Of the remaining four Maui County House contests, only one will be a winnertake-all race. With no Republican seeking the 12th House District seat, voters from Spreckelsville, Pukalani, Makawao, Kula, Keokea, Ulupalakua and Kahului will choose their representative in the Democratic primary. Rep. Kyle Yamashita, a small-business operator and member of the House since 2004, will face political newcomer Tiare Lawrence, owner and manager of Otaheite Hawaii and a community organizer with the Aloha ‘Aina Project.

In other Democratic primary races: ≤ Longtime Wailuku Rep. and House Speaker Joe Souki will meet environmental consultant and legislative advocate Richard Abbett for the House District 8 seat (Wailuku, Kahakuloa, Waihee, Waiehu, Puuohala and Waikapu). The winner will go up against Republican Gilbert Rebolledo, who’s unopposed in the GOP primary. ≤ South Maui Rep. Kaniela Ing, a memA Supplement of THE MAUI NEWS – Sunday, July 17, 2016 – Page S3

State House of Representatives candidates Continued from Page 3 answers, see below:

Alternative Pain Management Group, volunteer, 2014-15 Family: Three children

Hospital privatization: “The delays by the Legislature in response to the increased costs of the hospitals and the needs of residents for quality affordable health care resulted in a near crisis situation. Employees are covering the shortfall of staffing, many who were expecting to be House District 8 (Wailuku-Kahakuloa-Waihee-Waiehu-Puuohala-Waikapu) gone by July 1, creating additional stress and costs. The union lawsuit and appeal, which should have been anticipated, has put the transition to Kaiser on hold and all par(D) ties concede the deadline will not be met. Although the issues are complex and require considerable collaboraAge: 59 tion from all parties, both employees and patients bear Birthplace: Indianapolis, Ind. the brunt of the situation. Even though the federal 9th Residence: Wailuku Circuit Court of Appeals agreed to expedite the case, the Occupation: Environmental delay will continue to past September, when it is predictconsultant; legislative advocate ed the hospitals will no longer be able to make it through Political experience: Hawaii financially. Further costs will increase as patients are County Council candidate, District 6, flown to the Mainland for care. Legislation and amend2014 ments to House Bill 1075 called for maintaining current Education: Brebeuf Jesuit Prepara- access to health care services and preserving all rights, tory High School; Western Washington University; The benefits and privileges earned by Hawaii Health Systems Evergreen State College, public policy development Corp. employees.”

Community service: Hawaii Farmers Union United, board of directors, Ka‘u Chapter, treasurer, 2014-16; Preparing for the next visitor industry downturn: “BeOcean View Community Center, volunteer, 2011-15; cause the cyclical nature of the Maui economy is tied to the

State House of Representatives

Richard E. Abbett

Military service: U.S. Army 1954-56 Education: Woodbury University, bachelor of business administration, 1954, distinguished alumni, 2014; St. Anthony High School Community service: Cameron Center, director emeritus Family: Married, two children

Hospital privatization: “Maui island has only one acute-care hospital that had mounting financial problems needing more assistance than the Legislature and governor could afford. The Legislature felt that they had no recourse but to privatize the state-run hospitals in Maui.

To assist the hospital employees, the Legislature provided in the legislation, six months’ notification and the right to move to another state or county job, provided that you do not replace anyone on the basis of seniority.

The Legislature passed Senate Bill 2077 to assist the hospital employees to continue the Employees Retirement System service credits by transferring to another vacant position within a state or county agency; elect to take early retirement; elect to take separation benefits from state services and receive a severance package payout of approximately six months of salary.”

Preparing for the next visitor industry downturn: “In Maui County’s economy, tourism is king, especially with Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. halting cultivalarger global economy, upon which we have no influence, tion in December. We’re left with relatively small farms and fairly large ranches. We need to look at the 36,000 we need to diversify our industries. Priorities should be acres that will be available for farming and possibly based first on reducing our dependence on off-island sources of food and resources. Renewable energy and wa- ranching. Farming could include hemp, other agro farming and bio-energy crops. Given sufficient water, the ter reuse should head the list with sustainable non-monoculture agriculture. Food security from a clean vibrant and 36,000 acres could be the bread basket for the state. We need to also look at sea farming as we are surrounded by productive agricultural system utilizing regenerative techniques can begin to be addressed immediately with a redis- water, expansion with the movie locations and high-tech companies. Housing in Maui has been badly neglected tribution of our public trust water resources. Also the and needs to be increased, especially for the moderate development of small-holder diversified family farms would contribute to our local needs for healthy food for our income and rental for the lower income. The state has provided tax credits for housing. Also the state provided people and our guests in our important tourist industry. a tax credit for organic farming. That should stimulate Ranching cattle should be based on finishing growth on island, creation of mobile slaughterhouse operations for more farming.” small ranches and distribution for local needs. This would return the minerals and nutrients to our soil and reduces costs for fertilizing. Hemp production will serve to produce raw product as a local source for multiple products such as (Kihei-Wailea-Makena) fiber, oil, plastics, fuel, medicine and so many more. A return of a fair share of the transient accommodations tax (D) could fund infrastructure improvements necessary for a healthy tourist trade.”

Age: 27 Birthplace: Wailuku Residence: Kihei * (D) Occupation: State House representative since 2012; small-business Age: 85 owner; legislative researcher in Birthplace: Puunene Washington, D.C. Residence: Wailuku Political experience: NeighborOccupation: Legislator, Realtor hood board member; Associated Political experience: Member of Students of the University of Hawaii, president the state House since 1982; House Education: Bachelor of arts degree, psychology (politispeaker since 2013; previously speaker from 1993-99; state ConstiContinued on the next page tutional Convention delegate, 1978 A Supplement of THE MAUI NEWS – Sunday, July 17, 2016 – Page S4

House District 11 Kaniela Ing*

Joe Souki

State House of Representatives candidates

postcards, tabled at Kihei Fourth Friday and delivered over 2,000 community testical science minor), University of Hawaii at monies to my colleagues. After months of Manoa; studied public administration at hard work, we secured record funding of American University $130 million — the largest appropriation Community service: Resigned from all in the state. My opponent’s campaign has boards and organizational memberships up- confused voters with a false differentiation on taking office to avoid any conflicts of between appropriated and authorized interest monies. In reality, Gov. Neil Abercrombie Family: Unmarried female partner, one failed to spend it all before losing his rechild election. Sen. (Roz) Baker and I then worked with Governor (David) Ige to break Hospital privatization: “Everyone on ground, begin construction and secure anMaui deserves the best health care possiother $37.5 million, marking the single ble. This is why it was very important that largest appropriation in the state once again the Legislature acted in order to improve a — all in the face of Oahu opposition. The failing Maui Memorial. However, the deci- finance chairwoman (Sylvia Luke) and sion to privatize a public service is not one House leadership support my campaign to be made hastily, and we also have a du- through maximum contributions, and our ty to make sure that the hundreds of fami- district cannot afford to lose this seniority lies that work there land on their feet. This and influence.” is why I co-sponsored a bill to compensate the employees and ensure their pensions, and made sure the authorization bill did (D) not circumvent conference committee durAge: 47 ing the legislative session. In the future, I Birthplace: Alsupport exploring a community-owned toona, Penn. model for more accountability and comResidence: Kihei munity stake.”

Occupation: Protocol consultant; chief Kihei high school progress: “Our new of protocol, state of high school is funded and under construcHawaii for Govs. Neil tion for the first time ever. Phase I (wells Abercrombie and and ground work) is almost complete, and Phase II (classrooms) will go out to bid this David Ige, 2012-15; governor’s Maui representative, 2011-12 month (June). From here, the substantial Education: Bachelor of arts degree, work is in the hands of the governor and Department of Education. Shortly after my University of Maryland (with a focus on Japanese and Chinese studies) first election, I secured a spot on the FiCommunity service: Rotary Club of nance Committee, sent out tear-and-send

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Deidre M. Tegarden

Kahului (past president) and Rotary Club of Kihei-Wailea, member 2002-present; Maui Chamber Orchestra, board member, 2015-present; Maui OnStage, board member, 2015-present; Kihei 4th Friday, volunteer (former committee member), 2015present; South Maui Learning Ohana, volunteer and advocate Family: Married

Hospital privatization: “I think the Legislature could have done a better job reaching out to the employees and unions earlier in the process. Many of our state employees have accepted lower working wages to work in public service, based on a long-term promise of retirement and health care benefits. It is shocking and stressful when those guarantees are suddenly subject to change. I am a firm believer in bringing everyone to the table early on and allowing them to be a part of the decision-making process. According to reports, the transition of the hospital will result in savings to the state estimated at $260 million in 10 years and potentially more thereafter. Without knowing the exact cost to the pension system to pay out related to Senate Bill 2077, the potential costs to the taxpayer are estimated at around $40 million over time in deserved relief for our hospital workers, off set by the potential savings to the state over time for improved access to health care for our residents and visitors. I believe the tradeoff will benefit all in our community.”

Kihei high school progress: “No, not responsibly tracking the state’s funding

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process has left us still waiting for Kihei high school to become a reality. Advocacy for the school is not in question. What needs improvement is a thorough understanding of the funding process. I am committed to work with my fellow legislators to secure the funding we need and to stay on top of the process, making sure the money is appropriated. As a legislator, it’s imperative to work as a team with other state legislators who also are advocating for funds for their districts. We owe a debt of gratitude to the many people and organizations that have kept this dream alive, especially late Board of Education member Mary Cochran; Sen. Roz Baker; the Kihei High School Action Team; teachers and parents. I was Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s Maui representative when he asked what was a top priority for Maui.

I told him we needed to purchase land for a Kihei high school so he came to Maui, a group of us walked the identified land and he subsequently went back to Honolulu and authorized the state’s purchase of it. I am honored to have played a part in this ongoing effort.”

House District 12 (Spreckelsville-Pukalani-Makawao Kula-Keokea-Ulupalakua-Kahului)

Tiare Lawrence (D) Age: 34 Birthplace: Wailuku Residence: Pukalani Occupation: Owner/manager Otaheite Continued on the next page

State House of Representatives candidates Tiare Lawrence Continued from Page 5 Hawaii Education: Lahainaluna High School, Class of 2000, attended Kapiolani Community College; Ka Ipu Kukui graduate 2010; Kuleana academy graduate 2016 Community service: Aloha ‘Aina Project community organizer, 2015-present Family: Two children Hospital privatization: “It is obvious to me, based on the fact that the unions filed a suit in court, that the way the Legislature handled the privatization of the medical facilities on Maui and Lanai was not in the interest of the state employees or these island communities. I believe that a more careful examination of why the hospital was suffering a deficit should have been conducted prior to the decision to privatize, and a more comprehensive plan for the transfer of our medical staff from state to private should have been developed. As far as the state pension system is concerned, it is unfortunate that our Legislature has been unable to address the fact

that they have yet to make the pension system whole, and therefore, both our state retirees and our taxpayers continue to suffer for their shortsightedness. I believe that more could have been done by our Legislature to address the concerns of our employees and a much more equitable compensation package would have done much to allay the employee concerns regarding their level of compensation and attrition.”

high priority in the passage of the bill. Making sure Maui residents have access to quality hospitals on Maui is not only fair but a top priority for me. It’s about saving lives and saving jobs.”

The Legislature’s environmental stewardship: “I think it has been a good steward for Hawaii’s environment, land and natural resources, but we can always strive to do better. We passed legislation that protected critical watershed areas, supported renewable energy The Legislature’s environmental stewardship: “The programs and tax credits. We also increased funding for question is moot. The state of Hawaii has not been a the Department of Land and Natural Resources to better good steward of Hawaii’s environment. We are constantly bombarded by invasive species, continued impact protect our natural resources. In 2016, House Bill 2501 to our nearshore waters, the rampant commercialization was passed to allow the Board of Land and Natural Resources to authorize limited short-term holdover water and unlimited use of our public areas and resources.

There is also the continued lack of support for our social rights leases until an application to renew is approved or denied. The bill balances all needs and stakeholders. environment as well. Homelessness is on the rise, This is water that serves Upcountry residents and farmdespite the ongoing efforts of the many community ers, as well as the Upcountry Maui water treatment organizations. We have lost the ‘war on drugs,’ and the severe lack of affordable housing that is truly affordable plant. As we find the best way to transition from the closure of Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. operations to and in line with current wage rates in Hawaii continues diversified agriculture, it is absolutely critical to preto force generations of island families to leave home. serve water resources for agriculture and drinking water The continued lack of financial support from the Legislature exacerbates these ongoing issues. We fail in all ar- for the community. The Legislature acted responsibly to fund positions to expedite the review of applications to eas when we are unable to make the stewardship of our renew water rights leases, as well as to fund a survey social, economic and physical environment a priority.” and study of streams across the state. Maui’s economy is driven by the visitor industry and agriculture. They’re dependent on protecting the island’s environment.”

(D)

Kyle T. Yamashita*

Age: 56 Birthplace: Hawaii Residence: Makawao Occupation: Small-business operator; state House representative since 2004 Community service: PTSA, 1992-2011; Boy Scouts of America Annual Dinner Committee Member, 2009-present; Eagle Scout Annual Dinner Committee member, 2009-present Family: Married, two children

House District 13 (Haiku-Paia-East Maui Molokai-Lanai)

Lynn Pualani DeCoite* (D)

Age: 45 Birthplace: Honolulu Residence: Hoolehua, Molokai Occupation: State House representative since February 2015; owner and operator of L&R Farms; owner and operator of RJ’s Snacks; coHospital privatization: “I have always made it a priorowner and operator of V-8 Ranch ity to ensure that Maui residents have access to quality Political experience: Worked on and affordable health care on Maui. Whether it was Molokai for campaigns of David Ige for governor; helping to decentralize the state hospital system and create regional boards so Maui residents could have gover- Colleen Hanabusa for Congress; Barack Obama for president (2008 and 2012); Neil Abercrombie for governor; nance over Maui hospitals or allow for public-private Danny Mateo for Maui County Council; and U.S. Sens. partnership, my focus is on the health and safety of Maui Daniel Akaka and Daniel Inouye residents. Maui Memorial faced a $28 million shortfall, Education: Molokai High School, Class of 1988; so it was urgent that the Legislature find a way to prevent the loss of service and the loss of jobs for Maui res- University of Hawaii Maui College, Molokai Education idents. I strongly support the authorization for Maui Me- Center, 1988-90 Community service: Farm Service Agency, chairmorial to partner with the right entity that will continue woman, 2007-15; state Board of Agriculture, member, to provide access to health care on our island and the transition plan to provide dignity to our hospital employ- 2012-15; Molokai Homestead Farmers Alliance, president, 2006-15; Lokahi Pacific, board member, 2004-12; ees. The bill requires the new partner to preserve all Molokai Irrigation Advisory Board, 2008-12 rights, benefits and privileges earned by Hawaii Health Family: Married, three children Systems Corp. and to offer employment to current employees for six months. Protecting the employees was a Continued on the next page A Supplement of THE MAUI NEWS – Sunday, July 17, 2016 – Page S6

State House of Representatives candidates

Lynn Pualani DeCoite Continued from Page 6 Hospital privatization: “I feel the state reached a fair compromise, which is why I voted in favor of the measure. The entire situation behind the transfer of Maui Memorial was a hard decision and our responsibility to the community and the hospital workers weighed heavy on everyone.

In a situation like this, nothing is ‘fair,’ but I feel we, the state Legislature, did what we could to provide stability for the community. Going forward everything will have to be reviewed and audited so we can see the actual numbers and results.

I feel that as a legislator I need to be able to trust the numbers in front of me and the information provided, it is also my responsibility to question the numbers and information and to talk to all sides involved.

That is what I plan to continue to do for all decisions that need to be made.”

Stream water access controversy: “The entire situation between House Bill 2501 was a struggle. Each side put forth different information, and it made it difficult to get the information we actually needed to make an informed decision. It also educated my colleagues and the public on what the residents of East Maui have been fighting for the past 100 years. I voted NO because that is what my constituents asked of me and because there wasn’t enough concrete information for me in good conscience to vote the other way.

Going forward a complete audit and review needs to be done by the state Commission on Water Resource Management and the state Department of Land and Natural Resources to look at existing water recourses, the permits issued and who/what entities are affecting by each one. We need to look at history and cur-

rent information so that these issues can be more clear going forward.”

employees. There are no time provisions in place to protect employees who are not vested within their unions. The transition does not include the 4 percent pay in(D) crease the nurses were scheduled to receive, which would have closed the wage Age: 28 gap between them and higher-paid Oahu Birthplace: nurses. Also, our hospital employees’ Wailuku Residence: Haiku paid-time-off days will be cut in half. Last Occupation: Sub- session, our Legislature passed Senate Bill stitute teacher, state 2077, which provides protections for state Department of Edu- employees who are facing position abolishment, reduction in force or workforce cation; program direstructuring. This bill may affect the emrector for Boys & ployee retirement system if individuals opt Girls Clubs of Maui, 2014-15; invasive species field associate (coqui frogs), Maui for a special increased retirement benefit Invasive Species Committee, 2014; land- instead of severance benefits up to half of the employee’s annual salary.” scaper, Haller Landscapes, 2013; accounting coordinator for Marriott Vacations Worldwide, 2011-12 Stream water access controversy: “I Political experience: Maui County was fortunate to grow up alongside a Council candidate, 2014 stream in East Maui. I have lived two Education: Degree in finance from properties below an East Maui Irrigation California Polytechnic State University, diversion in Haiku for most of my life. I 2010; St. Anthony Junior-Senior High have seen the difference between 100 perSchool, 2006 cent stream-flow diversion during dry Community service: Haiku Community Association board member, 201516; Maui County Arborist Committee member, 2015-16; Hawaii Farmers Union United member, 2015-16 Family: Single

Alex Haller

Hospital privatization: “Our community deserves a strong hospital system that cares for all of our island’s residents. Due to the reality that important medical services would be cut from our hospitals, our state passed legislation that allowed for the privatization of public hospitals. This transition may better our community in the long run, if it ensures that patients will be treated and cared for within our local hospitals, rather than being flown to Oahu for health care. However, the transition will negatively affect some of our state

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years, and 100 percent stream-flow restoration during rainy years. Our state is fortunate to receive sustainable rains, which makes stream-flow restoration possible within our islands. I think the Legislature could have handled last session’s East Maui stream issue better. Our state receives enough rain to balance our island’s water demands. I believe it is possible to keep Central Maui green while ensuring that all East Maui streams run mauka to makai. East Maui has a combination of simple and complex irrigation diversions.

An engineer could design diversions that ensure mountain-to-ocean stream flow, while diverting excess water to Central Maui’s agricultural fields. If elected, I will fight to uphold our state’s Public Trust Doctrine and protect our natural resources for the benefit of all our people. Appurtenant rights, riparian uses, kalo farmers, irrigation ditches and most importantly the life of the stream, will be taken into consideration in my legislative decisions.”

(* = incumbent)

Maui County Council candidates

All Maui County Council seats contested for first time in decades or decades, two to three incumbent Maui County Council members have gotten a free pass to re-election, simply because they’ve been unopposed.

But that’s not happening this year, marking the first time in at least 20 years in which all nine council residency seats are contested.

Under the Maui County Charter, council races with three or more candidates compete in primary elections — this year on Aug. 13. The contests for the Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu, Upcountry, South Maui and Makawao-Haiku-Paia council seats have more than two candidates. The top two vote-getters in those races advance to the general election.

The contests with two or fewer candidates go directly to the general election.

This year, that will be the case in five

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council contests: East Maui Council Member Bob Carroll will take on a challenge from Shane Sinenci; West Maui Council Member Elle Cochran will face Ernest Balinbin; Kahului Council Member Don Guzman will be opposed by Vanessa Medeiros; Lanai Council Member Riki Hokama will defend his seat against Gabe Johnson; and Molokai Council Member Stacy Crivello will be tested by Keani Rawlins-Fernandez.

This year, two council seats are being vacated by the term-limit departures of Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu Council Member Mike Victorino and Upcountry Council Member Gladys Baisa. Those seats without hard-to-beat incumbents have attracted nine candidates overall — five for the Wailuku seat and four for the Upcountry seat.

All Maui County Council candidates were asked to answer this question: Do you think Maui County should change the current strong mayor-County Council system of governance? If so, what system would you advocate and why? If not, why do you think the current system is best?

And, candidates were asked to answer one of the following questions: What is your assessment of Maui's homeless problem? What do you think the Council could do to help address it?

The high demand for housing in Maui County has driven prices up — beyond what many residents can afford. To what extent do you believe county policies contribute to the problem? What would you do to address this?

A recurrent announcement from Maui County is that curbside trash collection was missed or landfills were closed early because of a lack of staffing. What do you think of this? And what do you think should be done?

What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Maui County? What would you do, specifically, to address them?

For the Wailuku seat, those candidates are: Alika Atay, one of the leaders of the SHAKA Movement for a moratorium on genetically modified organisms; Joe Blackburn, a retired safety director at Maui Electric Co., a retired Maui Fire Department fire rescue captain and a former Maui police officer; Dain Kane, a former council member who held the seat from 1999 to 2006; Keith Regan, the county’s managing director; and Hana Steel, the county’s recycling coordinator.

For the Upcountry seat, the candidates are: Stacey Moniz, executive director of Women Helping Women; Napua GreigNakasone, a kumu hula and businesswoman; Yuki Lei Sugimura, a community leader, businesswoman and former Housing for working families NOW! congressional field representative; and Eric Molina, a Pukalani resident and Affordable financing solutions such as First Time Home Buyers event manager.

Down Payment program and a variety of housing types: In the Makawao-Haiku-Paia contest, starter homes, senior homes and workforce housing!

Ka‘anapali Beach Hotel manager and council Chairman Mike White will defend his seat against against web and graphic designer/developer Trinette Furtado and Upcountry veterinarian Dr. Alan Kaufman.

In the South Maui race, Council Member Don Couch will be challenged by Pacific Biodiesel Vice President Kelly King, YukiLeiSugimura.com tour company operator Richard DeLeon and Kihei resident Jerome Metcalfe.

For candidate questions, all council candidates were asked: Do you think P a i d f o r b y F r i e n d s o f Yu k i L e i - P. O . B o x 9 0 1 3 6 2 , K u l a , H I 9 6 7 9 0 Maui County should change the current A Supplement of THE MAUI NEWS – Sunday, July 17, 2016 – Page S8

@YukiLei4Council • #VoteYukiLei

strong mayor-County Council system of governance? If so, what system would you advocate and why? If not, why do you think the current system is best? And, they were asked to choose one of four other questions to answer. (See box for questions.)

Maui County Council Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu

Alika Atay Age: 62 Birthplace: Hana Residence: Waihee Occupation: HINA Organic Farming, Cho Global Natural Farming and JADAM Organic Farming; farm alchemist at Hoku Nui Farm LLC, Launiupoko Farm LLC and Hawaiian Village Inc., 2011-present Education: Bachelor of arts degree, Hastings College, Neb.; Kamehameha Schools, Kapalama Community service: HINA (Hawaiian Indigenous Natural Agriculture), president, 2016; Hawaii Farmers Union United (HFUU) West Maui Chapter, Mauna Continued on the next page

Maui County Council candidates Continued from Page 8 Kahalawai, president 2015-16; Hawaiian Homes Leadership Team, 2013-15; Baldwin High School paddling, head coach, 2002-13; Kihei Canoe Club, president, 2000-03 Family: Married, three children (one deceased)

homeownership. Other housing plans shall include ‘low-cost starter homes’ community packages. Another area of housing concerns is to also address the needs of our senior citizens and their housing needs through additional senior housing rentals.”

Joseph G. Blackburn II

County governance: “Yes. A county business manager. Our county has now evolved to a $650 million business entity. We must approach it and run it as business corporation. We must take ‘political favors’ out of the equation and select the best personnel that is best suited to run the business for the County of Maui.”

Age: 63 Birthplace: Honolulu Residence: Wailuku Occupation: Real estate broker; minority owner of Maui Land Broker and Property Management Housing: “We must provide ‘truly afEducation: Master’s degree in higher fordable housing’ opportunities that will education administration, University of stop the displacement of young local res- Hawaii; bachelor’s degree in public fire ident families migrating away from administration, Western Oregon; bacheMaui. I propose that a committed team of lor’s degree in business administration, individuals representing all sectors of the California State University at Chico; community be convened with the sole more than 100 training and certificapurpose of solving and finding a ‘truly tions, including executive fire officer affordable housing strategy’ for this from the National Fire Academy community. From a county perspective, Community service: Wailuku Rotary we must address the current ordinances Club member; Maui Local Emergency that are possibly contributing to and afPlanning Committee, coordinator 2015fecting the high housing costs. Plans 16; Wailuku Wolf Pack Menehune basshall address an affordable ‘family rental ketball coach; Sport Ministry Kings housing plan’ where young local resident Cathedral; Blackburn’s Blessings Feed families will be able to ‘baby-step’ their the Homeless way toward homeownership via rentals, Family: Married, three children then establishing savings and financial County governance: “I would like to credit towards a down payment for

see qualifications for all department heads including at least a bachelor’s degree with related work experience, including the manager position. Recruitment by a professional, independent recruiting firm including the managing director. Institute a selection process for the managing director and department heads that would minimize political influence. Let the mayor and council select five names from a list of qualified names like we do for civil service positions, and they must agree on one. If we set higher standards I have confidence our county employees will attempt to attain the qualifications for the top positions. Provide education incentives for county employees. Now our current management system is expensive. Current mayor’s staff is 19 and Office of Management employees number 11 a total of 30. Price tag for wages is $2,289,111, not including benefit costs which are about 73 percent more. This number does not include Budget, CDBG or other miscellaneous staff that are in the Mayor’s Office. In comparison, the mayor/manager staff on Kauai is nine, on Hawaii 17, and on Oahu, the Office of Mayor staff is six, and the Managing Director’s office is 22.5 FTE for a total of 28.5. Let’s reduce costs.”

Most pressing issues: “The most pressing issue facing Maui County is the cost of living for our working class. An example is the high cost of housing, which includes rentals and homeless. We need to stop making laws and regulations which

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GIL REBOLLEDO for State House of Representatives email: prepareye@hotmail.com Paid for by FO REAL GIL • P.O. Box 3120, Wailuku, HI 96793

A Supplement of THE MAUI NEWS – Sunday, July 17, 2016 – Page S9

make it harder for us to increase our housing inventory. Maui County needs at least 1,400 housing units a year, and we are only building a little over 300 and over half the buyers are from off island. Solutions include helping families with down payments, with payback to the County of Maui when the property is sold. Provide a subdivision review process that has time frames and limits the amount of reviewing agencies. Allow incremental housing (Chilean architect Alejandro Aravena).

Make a separate housing department within the County of Maui. Give builders incentives to build, with a process like the state 201H program which speeds approval process. Permit self-contained residential fire sprinklers (NFPA 13) instead of costly waterline improvements. Have hard time limits for review of community plans. Increase spending on infrastructure.

Our working families are living paycheck to paycheck, or on credit and our children are leaving because of the high cost of living. Let me help.”

Dain P. Kane Age: 54 Birthplace: Lihue Residence: Wailuku Occupation: Selfemployed — consultant/small farmer Political experience: Maui County Continued on the next page

Maui County Council candidates

the county government and determine what changes, if any may be desirable . . .’

Continued from Page 9 I support their recently released 20152016 annual report where it investigated Council member (Wailuku-Waiheewhether a change from the mayor-counWaikapu residency seat), 1999-2006; cil form of government to a council-manran for mayor in 2006; was an Office of ager form would lead to substantive imHawaiian Affairs candidate for the Maui provements.

They identified and anaIsland trustee seat in 2012 lyzed five values for local governance: Education: Bachelor’s degree in edueconomy/efficiency; professional qualification, University of Hawaii at Manoa, cations; executive-level turnover; execu1985 Community service: Year-around of- tive-level costs; and financial impacts. ficial for Hawaiian Swimming and Maui The investigation found there would be NO substantive improvements if Maui Age Group Swimming Association (MAGSA) 2007-present; board of direc- County changed to a council-manager tors for Hawaiian Swimming & MAGSA government. Some of their recommendations: Don’t base change solely on eco2015-present; Wailuku Country Estates nomics — include other values, like Community Association Board of Direcminimizing political influence on and actors president 2011-present countability of county officials, and enFamily: Married, three adult children sure that any changes go through proper County governance: “No, the change is due process and evaluation; grant the council the right to a revised vetting not justified. Maui County has a Cost of Government Commission, which has the process for mayoral appointments. If a duty to ‘study and investigate the organi- charter amendment to move toward a zations and methods of operations . . . of council-manager form of government is

Dain P. Kane

deemed appropriate by the council, it should be proposed by the Charter Commission. See: www.mauicounty.gov/ DocumentCenter/View/103826”

Most pressing issues: “I consider the pressures of growth and the affordability of living in Maui County as two of the most pressing issues we face. In order to address these issues effectively, I believe it is necessary to have an understanding of, and hands-on experience with the structure and organization of Maui County’s role of governance, with my responsibilities as a council member clearly defined in our County Charter. I will be one of nine members of the legislative body of the county. Our continuous task is the setting and reviewing of policies for land use, growth and affordable living conditions, along with providing appropriations to the executive branch to carry out those policies. I will actively engage with our citizens and listening carefully with an open mind. With that engagement, I will treat everyone with fairness, dignity and respect. I’ll pursue positive and mutually respectful working relationships with my council colleagues, understanding that we all come from different socio-economic backgrounds and upbringings. I will work consistently to find common ground with both my council colleagues and our executive branch — understanding that we all want to help ease these pressures, and enhance the well-being of our communities.”

Keith A. Regan

• • • • •

The next generation of leadership Equipped with education and experience Independent decision maker Community leader Committed and compassionate

“It is time to build bridges within our community in order to ensure Maui forever remains the place we are proud to call home. I humbly ask for your vote on August 13th to help me get to work for all of Maui Nui.” PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF NAPUA GREIG-NAKASONE FOR COUNCIL. P.O. Box 595, Kula, HI 96790

Age: 44 Birthplace: Lawrence, Mass.

Residence: Wailuku Occupation: Maui County managing director Education: Bachelors of science in business operations, DeVry University; master’s degree in business administration, University of Phoenix; master’s degree in public administration, University of Southern California Community service: 100 Men Who Care — Maui Chapter, founder, 2015present; Aloha Initiative Project — cofounder, 2011; Japanese Cultural Society of Maui, board member, 2016, past

A Supplement of THE MAUI NEWS – Sunday, July 17, 2016 – Page S10

president; Cub Scouts — Pack 40, Den Leader 2013-14, Cubmaster, 2014-16; Maui Memorial Medical Center Foundation, board member, 2010-15 Family: Married, one child County governance: “While the current system is not perfect, I strongly support having checks and balances. If the system is changed as proposed, all of the power will be concentrated in the elected nine-member council to hire/fire the professional manager to oversee the delivery of public services. I don’t believe a wholesale change is warranted — at least not at this time. Before the entire system of county governance is completely changed, perhaps we should modify different aspects of the current system. Example: To address people’s concern about directors’ qualifications, perhaps we could amend the charter to increase the minimum qualifications of such appointees. A colleague used this analogy: If the ‘check engine’ light turns on, would the owner of the car immediately replace the car engine? I don’t think so. The driver would take the car to a mechanic to determine what’s wrong and to fix the problem. Perhaps all it required was an oil change. Similarly, let’s determine what’s problematic and revise the current system before making a wholesale change. Finally, we should implement stricter residency requirements including a mandatory ‘return to district’ clause that would require members to live in their district the majority of the time.”

Housing: “The problem we’re facing with housing stems from failed legislative policies introduced and enacted 10 years ago that have created a shortage — where supply has fallen far short of demand. The council was warned by experts that enacting certain ‘bad’ legislation would chill the housing market and have long-term, far-reaching, negative impacts on our community. The failure to listen has resulted in a shortage of thousands of units and prices that aren’t within reach of the average family. We need to take corrective measures to encourage, not discourage, the creation of affordable housing. We should be open to exploring public-private partnerships, leveraging our current affordable housing fund to develop more affordable rentals, Continued on the next page

Maui County Council candidates

Continued from Page 10 and removing barriers that are at the root of this problem. We must increase density where density makes sense, and consider new, forward-thinking, progressive zoning models. Let’s work together to build reasonably priced market units that’ll meet our needs.”

Hana S. Steel Age: 70 Birthplace: North Dakota Residence: Wailuku Occupation: Maui County recycling coordinator; Hana Steel LLC Education: Bachelor’s degree, English major, psychology minor, San Francisco State College, 1968; doctorate of philosophy in Lifestyles, More University, Lafayette, Calif., 1985 Community service: Chaplain emeritus, Unity Church of Maui; Hui No‘eau volunteer; Halau Ke‘alaokamaile, Papa Lei Hinahina, Wailuku Family: Married, three children, two hanai children

homeless housing projects. Solve the affordable housing dilemma. (3) Return to recycling. Review the Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan. By shelving the community’s plan in 2010, Maui will have no construction and demolition recycling center/landfill. This increases building costs and accelerates the need for a new, expensive landfill. I support a C&D public-private partnership. Fund a state-of-the-art household hazardous waste facility to manage caustics, poisons, flammables and explosives. An HHWF like Guam has is desperately needed, especially if waste-to-energy is planned. Curbside recycling, the community demands it. (4) Biannual budget. Annual budgeting is costly and inefficient.”

Upcountry

Napua Greig-Nakasone

Age: 42 Residence: Kula Occupation: Halau Na Lei Kaumaka o Uka, nonprofit, president; Seabury Hall, educator; Pihana Productions, business owner Education: Kamehameha County governance: “Our current county government Schools, Class of 1992; University operating system (GOS) is comparable to the first verof Hawaii at Manoa, bachelor of arts sion of DOS. What our community needs is a GOS that operates and runs at the speed of Windows 10. Increas- degree in interdisciplinary studies Community service: Commissioner, state Land Use ing efficiencies of Maui’s GOS cannot improve until we Commission, 2010-13; Halau Na Lei Kaumaka o Uka, upgrade to a more stable, dependable and modern sysnonprofit cultural organization, 1996-present; Waiohuli tem. I support county-manager governing as recomHawaiian Homesteaders Association, board member, mended by the council’s committee. I know from 26 years of county employment that good people work for 2010-present; Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, board member, 2015-16 the county. They cannot perform at their highest level Family: Married, four children when department heads are appointees, often possessing little or no experience in the departments they are exCounty governance: “It is not our current system that pected to supervise. This places a burden on civil seris the problem. It is the leaders in place in the current vants, hinders long-term planning and stalls projects.

We need progressive thinking to have a better, more efficient, cost-effective GOS, worthy of Maui No Ka Oi. The mayor system hasn’t been able to improve our outdated county government. The first order of business for the county manager is to re-vamp the entire building permit process. It’s broken; let’s fix it, and let’s fix the West Maui injection well environmental disaster. I fix things. I am the red tape specialist, and I am running with scissors.”

system that are the problem. The inability of our mayor and council to work together to forge solutions for Maui County is the motivation behind this movement.

The great benefit of having a county manager form of governance is that the county manager would be hired on his or her experience and qualifications and not on personal connections or political favors. However, the lack of check and balance between a mayor and a council concerns me. What I would support and advocate for is for the mayor to nominate persons for department head positions and for the council to have the power to confirm them, much like the system in place for state boards and commissions. This way, the legislative body has the responsibility and power to review nominees and their qualifications. However, I do believe the people should be able to decide on this issue. I would like to see this on the ballot this November.”

Housing: “Maui County faces the highest home inaffordability rate in the nation. County policies contribute to this problem. Firstly, we need to address our method of calculating affordable. Our method of affordable housing calculations does not accurately reflect what is truly affordable for Maui County’s working families. How do we assist affordable housing? For housing to be affordable, we need to make the development process more efficient. One way is by having all those who are needed in the approval process in one building, one office. Engineers, planners, fire and water personnel in one office would make for a much more efficient process. Also, I commend the council in introducing charter amendments to include an attorney, a cultural specialist and an environmental specialist on county commissions, like our planning commission. Having these specialists in place to thoroughly review plans will ensure that concerns and issues are addressed at the county level instead of being bounced back and forth to

Most pressing issues: “(1) The silver tsunami! 46,000 people over 65 by 2030! The majority? Women! We lack enough appropriate housing and care facilities for our aging population. The plan: Establish multi-sector focus groups, including developers, and envision humane, progressive care, affordable housing options and a fantastic lifestyle for our healthy and slightly incapacitated elderly.

Then build. (2) Infrastructure. Learn from Oahu’s mess and immediately negotiate for a light rail corridor through the cane fields connecting communities. Allow farmers to farm the corridor until the transportation system is developed. Fund the Wailuku Gym, Kahului Service Center, A Supplement of THE MAUI NEWS – Sunday, July 17, 2016 – Page S11

Continued on the next page

Maui County Council candidates Napua Greig-Nakasone Continued from Page 11 the state and state Land Use Commission. During my time on the state Land Use Commission, I saw petitions being passed back to the county numerous times. This takes up time and costs developers more money, making affordable housing less affordable.”

Eric John Molina Age: 45 Birthplace: Maui Residence: Pukalani Occupation: Event manager, Panache Destination Management and Maui Arts & Cultural Center; former vice president, account manager with Larry John Wright Advertising

Education: Bachelors of science degree (major in history, minor in music), Eastern Oregon University, 1993 Community service: Board member, Maui Academy of Preforming Arts, 2012-14; commissioner, county Commission of Culture and the Arts, 201113; board member, Akaku: Maui Community Television, 2011 to present; board member, Maui on Stage, 2009-12

County governance: “I believe there are options for different systems of governance, and any options should be explained to the Maui voters and voted on through the election process.”

Homelessness: “This is a multi-layered issue with no current instruments to quantify the categories of homelessness in Maui County. As a council member, I would consult with with the Department of Housing and Human Concerns to work with all nonprofits to address the individual needs in each group.”

“Let us never forget that government is ourselves and not an alien power over us. The ultimate rulers of our democracy are not a President and senators and congressmen and government officials, but the voters of this country.”-- Franklin D. Roosevelt

PLEASE EXERCISE YOUR RIGHT TO VOTE!

SATURDAY, AUGUST 13 ROOTED. CAPABLE. EFFECTIVE. Paid for by Friends of Gil Keith-Agaran P.O. Box 857 Wailuku, Maui, Hawaii 96793

bish homes. Allowing for affordable rentals is equally important for Maui County. Providing rental subsidies, help Age: 52 Birthplace: Albu- with utilities and helping homeless families with rental assistance programs are querque, N.M. ways the county is already supporting Residence: families through partnerships with nonPukalani Occupation: Exec- profits. We can increase funds that allow for homelessness prevention assistance to utive director, help families from becoming homeless in Women Helping the first place. It is much easier to help Women Education: Maui High School, Class of families before they become homeless. Finally, we need housing for spe1982 Community service: Soroptimist Inter- cialized groups of people like the elderly, national of Maui, vice president, member disabled, those coming out of substance 2012-present; Maui Non Profit Directors abuse or mental health treatment, victims of domestic violence, people getting out (past president), member 2001-present; Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic of prison and other special groups of Violence (former board member) member people who need additional care from the 1997-present; National Coalition Against community.”

Domestic Violence (former board member) member 2000-present Family: Two children

Stacey Suemi Moniz

Yuki Lei Kashiwa Sugimura

County governance: “I support a change in structure but not necessarily a change in the mayor’s position. I believe we need to de-politicize the county department director positions and create a minimum set of requirements (as in job descriptions) for county department heads. We need a system for upward movement potential within departments based on experience and leadership abilities, not political affiliations. If employees in their departments knew they had opportunities for advancement within their field of expertise, I believe we would have better performance and teamwork within departments and better leadership at the director levels. If the only way we can achieve this is through the creation of a county manager position then I will support that.”

Most pressing issues: “Affordable housing and homelessness are two parts of the tremendous challenge facing our community right now. Complex challenges like these require multi-faceted solutions. I believe strongly in creating and strengthening more public-private partnerships where our community comes together to support a variety of housing solutions. Examples of homeownership partnerships include the county’s partnerships with Habitat for Humanity and Na Hale o Maui to help families purchase their own homes using government funding and public, private and volunteer labor forces to build and refur-

A Supplement of THE MAUI NEWS – Sunday, July 17, 2016 – Page S12

Age: 63 Residence: Kula Occupation: Small-business owner, Connec Maui, an event planning and promotions company, 2002-present; field representative for U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, 2013-15; field representative for U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka Political experience: Maui Democratic Party, Maui vice chairwoman; State Central Committee, Coordinated Campaign; Maui re-election co-chairwoman for former U.S. Sens. Daniel Inouye and Daniel Akaka Education: University of Hawaii at Manoa, bachelor of science degree; Baldwin High School graduate Community service: 51st Annual Makawao Rodeo Parade, co-chairwoman, 2016; Maui Memorial Medical Center Foundation board, 2016; Maui Korean War Veterans, honorary member, 2016; Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce, board and member, 2015 to present; Epic Ohana, foster youth community coordinator, 2014 to present Family: Married, one son County governance: “We should not change our system of governance to a professional county manager, appointed by the Maui County Council, until more work is done to understand the effects of Continued on the next page

Maui County Council candidates

policy and addresses the current and future needs of the community. This may this change. What problem are we trying ensure that we have adequate supply of to solve? What are the checks and balhousing for the community; ensure that ances to ensure fair overview? How much all segments of the community have will it cost to adopt this type of goveraccess to housing; ensure that housing nance? Are changes to the Hawaii state efforts contribute to a sustainable comstatutes necessary? I agree with the Cost munity. This housing czar can help of Government Commission’s recomstreamline the approval process, re-estabmendation to further analyze this issue. lish confidence with private developers, The Maui County Council’s ‘Special work with the State of Hawaii, financial Committee on County Governance’ spent institutions and help increase housing for many hours hearing testimony, research- our working families. We need a proacing and discussing this important issue. tive, long-range plan with the skill set and We are grateful to those community leverage, like Hale Mahaolu, which has members who took time to explore this built housing for our kupuna, for all new form of governance. Possible segments of the community. We need changes to consider are: review and admore rental units and for-purchase workjust the criteria for departmental director; force housing units with affordable require council approval for all departprices! I stand by the working families ment heads; and amend the duties of the who help drive our economy. I believe managing director to address accountabil- this is how the county can assist with ality concerns. Should further work be con- leviating this growing housing shortage.� ducted on this issue, let us remember that our county is unique. We are multi-ethnic South Maui residents with rich cultural values and traditions. Our aina is important both culturally and economically. There is no other place like Maui County. Let’s not lose Age: 60 sight of that!�

Birthplace: Long Beach, Calif.

Housing: “Affordable/workforce housResidence: Kihei ing is a very diverse and complicated isOccupation: sue spanning areas of land use, design, Council member construction, financing, marketing, leEducation: Boise gal. The County of Maui should consider State University. hiring a housing czar and develop an afLong Beach City fordable housing master plan which College defines the county’s affordable housing

Continued from Page 12

Don Couch*

Community service: Board member, Boys & Girls Clubs of Maui, 2004-present; vice chairman, Akaku Maui Community Media, 2010-present Family: Married

society can produce. Economists say that a major reason for that is supply and demand. Maui’s housing demand projections call for 1,400 new dwellings every year to keep up with natural population growth. But we are building 300. Until that equation changes, we will just fall County governance: “To date, I have ever deeper into a housing deficit. Most not taken a position on mayor-council versus manager-council form of govern- developers will concur that the entitlement. I wanted the Special Committee on ments and the conditions placed on their land contribute to increasing the cost for Governance to run its course, conduct a development, which will price affordable thorough review and present their findprojects out of range for most residents. ing and recommendations to the County Currently, the state’s 201H process helps Council. I also read the sincere, welldocumented report of the county Cost of to expedite the construction of affordable housing by exempting the development Government Commission that says that changing our form of government really from certain requirements to reduce infrastructure costs and fees established by won’t make any difference. The Special the county. The county can do more.

Committee came back basically split, Other considerations consist of easing with a bare 6-to-5 majority saying we should put this proposal to the voters and zoning restrictions to allow for a second kitchen in a residence, permit an addithe minority agreeing with the Cost of tional ohana on smaller lots that must be Government report, saying at best this rented at affordable rates. Provide tax inproposal is not ready for the ballot. So my thought is: let’s ask the voters, is this centives for those property owners that provide a portion of their property to be an important issue for you? The Special used by families or individuals in need of Committee is recommending placing a question on the ballot asking the public if affordable housing.� they want to change the structure of governance of the County of Maui. What is most important to recognize, is that I remain open minded so as to objectively Age: 59 carry out the wishes of the voters once Birthplace: Kealakekua, Kona they have spoken on the question.�

Residence: Kihei Occupation: Tour company operator Housing: “The cost of housing in Education: Kaimuki High School, Class of 1974; studied marketing and Hawaii has outpaced income growth for the average worker, so that working Continued on the next page folks can no longer afford the shelter our

Richard L. DeLeon

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Maui County Council candidates Richard L. DeLeon Continued from Page 13 sales at Ivy Tech Community College, Indiana Community service: Hawai‘i Sustainability member; Kihei Community Association; cultural educator Family: Married, three children

by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for wastewater sewage that has been sent into injection wells that’s leaking into our ocean. The cove in Kihei is the most polluted water in Maui County. I have issues with short-term rentals that are not following the rules of our county. I’m not against them. I just want everyone to pay their fair share.”

Kelly Takaya King

Age: 56 Birthplace: Gardenia, Calif.

Residence: Kihei Occupation: Vice president of Pacific Biodiesel Political experience: Elected to the Hawaii State Board of Education, 1994-98 Education: Attended community Most pressing issues: “My issues and concern are colleges in Santa Barbara, Calif., and at the University about lack of affordable housing, that negatively impacts families into homelessness situation. I have issues of Hawaii Maui College Community service: University of Hawaii Maui with irresponsible development to our shorelines, which are having a negative impact on our ocean and reefs due College Advisory Committee to Sustainable Sciences Management Program, 2012-present; Sustainable to wastewater treatment inadequate to service any size of development. This is why Maui County is been sued Biodiesel Alliance (a national nonprofit), founding member and current board chairwoman, 2007-present; Aina Mo’ Project, project developer of soil amendment for the local taro farming industry, 2008 to present; Maui Farmers Union Board of Directors, 2012-14; Hawaii Energy Policy Forum, 2009-present Family: Married, two children

County governance: “I think Maui County should have some changes in how they select county planning commissions. I think Maui County should have a professional manager as an oversight manager between the mayor and council members for transparency purposes.”

for affordable housing. (As a related issue, I would like to hear more discussion about affordable rentals raised as part of the affordable housing agenda.) As the council considers funding for the homeless problem on Maui, we need to make sure we are addressing the root causes of homelessness and understand how many folks are intentionally homeless, how many have mental health and/or drug addiction problems, and how many folks are in unfortunate circumstances that they need assistance to resolve. Each of these root causes needs a different approach when creating solutions. The County Council can lead the way by focusing on human concerns issues, making it a separate committee or a working group of the Housing, Human Concerns and Transportation Committee, regularly reviewing data and/or funding comprehensive assessments in the absence of information, and appropriately funding the county departments and community nonprofits that are truly assisting in solving these problems.”

Jerome V. (Tiger) Metcalfe

(Did not respond in time to be included in this publication.)

Makawao-Haiku-Paia

Trinette K.U. Furtado

Age: 45 Birthplace: Wailuku Residence: Hamakualoa, Haiku Occupation: Web and graphic County governance: “The council is obligated to redesigner/developer view other systems of government as required by the Education: Maui High School, 2010 Countywide Policy Plan, which calls for examiClass of 1988; Bachelor of fine arts nation of different forms of local governance. I support degree, University of Hawaii at changing our current system to one similar to many othManoa, 2001 ers throughout our country with an elected governing Community service: Sierra Club, Maui Chapter, exbody that hires and oversees a professional county man- ecutive board member, 2015-16; ‘Aha Kauleo State ager. This would give citizens the accountability that is Advisory Board for Ka Papahana/Hawaiian Language lacking in Maui’s current system where council memImmersion Schools, school/parent representative, bers have no control over administrative duties yet must 2013-14; ‘Aha Ho‘oko/Executive Board of ‘Aha decide on funding requested by the administration. Cur- Kauleo, recording secretary, 2014-16; Na Leo Kako‘o rently department directors are hired by the mayor with- Maui (Ke Kula Kaiapuni o Maui PTA), Hope Pelikikeout due process and do not necessarily have the rena, vice president, 2010-13 quired qualifications and, in fact, most of the public has Family: Divorced, one child never even seen the job descriptions. I believe it would be more efficient and less costly in the long run to hire County governance: “I believe we need to change the professionals who would be held accountable by the current system of government to one of a county mancouncil, which is more accessible and responsive to the ager-council structure that clearly outlines the duties of public. The Special Committee’s recommendation is a the county manager (or managing director) with relation major improvement and most importantly Mauians to the council. The county is a corporation which reshould have the opportunity to vote on the change.” quires solid management, administration, accountability and transparency. We have had very little of that within Homelessness: “Maui’s homeless problem is growthe current system. Our county budget continues to rise ing and needs to be prioritized. Lumping homelessness while basic government services suffer. Other issues inand other human concerns issues, such as mental health, clude: abuse and misuse of county funds, unpunished drug addiction, literacy, early childhood education, etc., and unchecked; parts of an election that are validated with housing is not helpful. Housing is a separate issue while others are not; and department heads that come from homelessness as the homeless cannot even qualify Continued on the next page

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Maui County Council candidates

Continued from Page 14 and go based on the current, popularly elected mayor, whom might have his/her own agenda or promises to keep, rather than on experience, professionalism or performance. For these few reasons and others having to do with inefficiency and inaccessibility, I support a change in way our county business affairs are administered and managed. I believe the problem isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a particular person or specific department. The problem is the system that lacks specific checks and balances to address these issues and therefore allows its own abuse.â&#x20AC;?

Homelessness: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mauiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unsheltered problem isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going away and could become very serious if the council does not look into diverse housing options. We need to take a critical assessment of all county lands, current uses and the possibilities for the county to acquire more land for communal, diverse living situations to offer people a variety of options. The council should also look into apartment, tiny home, dorm and single-family home solutions that incorporate self-sufficiency for the development area and encourage that by positive incentives that benefit developers, the county and the tenant(s). Low-income home purchase or rental should be subsidized in part by fees and taxes collected by the county from large-scale developments in affluent areas.

Grants/loans to first-time buyers/renters based on specific qualifications could be administered on a biyearly basis (though disbursement times would be dependent on budget funding). The county should also enforce ordinances that ensure affordable housing units being sold, remain affordable for a longer period of time,

Vote

hopefully eradicating much of the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;buy and flipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; currently happening throughout Hawaii. Rentals and those who offer them, could be incentivized, provided that they are legally registered and monitored.â&#x20AC;?

Alan D. Kaufman Age: 66 Birthplace: New Jersey Residence: Haiku Occupation: Doctor of veterinary medicine Education: Deep Springs College; University of California, Berkeley; University of California, Davis, Bachelor of Veterinary Science, with honors, 1975, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, 1977 Community service: Cameron Center Board of Directors, president 2013-14; Hawaii State Board of Veterinary Examiners, 2012-present; Board of Trustees, Deep Springs College, 2012-15; Ka Ohana O Kalaupapa, member; Kula Community Association, past president Family: Married, seven children County governance: â&#x20AC;&#x153;In 7th-grade civics, I wrote a paper supporting the county manager form of government. The clarity of that conviction has faded. Maui has individuals who support current governmental structure and others who support change. The committee tasked with this issue did not reach consensus. The vote to

move forward was 5-4. Making a major change to governmental structure based on a narrow margin suggests the committee reviewed data highly subject to interpretation. A portion of current frustration with the system results from acrimony between our mayor and council chairman. A change to the system wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make contention disappear. How we disagree with each other is as important as the areas about which we disagree.

While either structure can be highly successful or splendidly disastrous, performance depends more on those who serve than on roles and titles. Rather than devote time and energy to this debate, the electorate could accomplish more by educating itself about the candidates.

Only by having the best individuals serve will we be able to satisfactorily address the important issues facing Maui Nui. This is why I support district voting.â&#x20AC;?

Most pressing issues: â&#x20AC;&#x153;District voting is not important until we remember the people we elect determine our future. Currently, all voters elect all nine council members. Gaining insight about so many candidates is daunting. Most of us, overwhelmed with jobs, families and incomes stretched to breaking, cannot make the time. The result is the government we have today. Incumbents, even when not supported within their own district, are elected by countywide majorities because of name recognition. District voting makes council members, known within the communities where they live, responsible to immediate constituents. District voting provides opportunity to evaluate a manageable number of candidates while reducing campaign costs.

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G EN ER A L EL EC TI O N CANDIDATE

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A Supplement of THE MAUI NEWS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sunday, July 17, 2016 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Page S15

Maui County Council candidates Political experience: Maui County Council, 2011-present; Hawaii State LegContinued from Page 15 islature, House of Representatives, 1993This limits money as a primary compo98 nent of electability. It’s stated that the Education: Bachelor of Science from current system enables our highly valued the University of Hawaii at Manoa, and geographically isolated island comSchool of Travel Industry Management munities to have a voice. While true, that Community service: Native Hawaiian same reasoning dictates the creation of Hospitality Association, treasurer, foundcouncil seats for all small communities, ing member, board of directors, 2005including Kanaio and Kahakuloa. This disproportionate methodology is inconsis- 13; Hawai‘i Employers Council, Board of Governors, 2001-14; Hawai‘i Hotel tent with democratic principles of voter equality. To create more effective govern- & Lodging Association, Board of Direcment, we should change how we elect it.” tors, 2000-13; University of Hawaii School of Travel Industry Management Advisory Council, 2004-08; Maui Hotel & Lodging Association, president, 1987, vice president, 1988, 1989, chairman, Age: 67 Birthplace: Oahu 1990, 1991, board member, 1986-95, Residence: Olinda member, 1998-2003, member of the Occupation: Gen- board 2004-present eral manager of the Family: Married, five adult children Ka‘anapali Beach County governance: “County governHotel; council mem- ment should focus on delivering core ber services through a professional team of

Alan D. Kaufman

Mike White*

staff members. In an ideal situation, department directors and deputies would be hired through a competitive process based on merit and experience and not patronage. I believe this will result in a county government that can better deliver services to our residents over a long period of time. Many municipalities across the country already employ the council-manager form of government, and I believe voters should have the opportunity to decide whether this change is what they desire. The council allowed for the formation of a Special Governance Committee to consider ways to improve the way our county is structured. They recommended a ceremonial mayor and placing the authority to run services in a professional manager hired by the council. The council’s role would be to set policy and highly qualified professionals would carry out these policies. I am first to admit that no system is ever perfect, but I believe when an opportunity arises to elevate the level of professionalism and remove a layer of bureaucracy, it always is positive for the community.”

Housing: “Looking at the facts, only

Please exercise your right to

VOTE! Primary Election: 13 Saturday, August entee): Early walk-in (Abs August 1-11 local Polling Place Please go to your . and 6:00 p.m. to between 7:00 a.m make a difference!

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three affordable homes were built in eight years under the county’s previous 50 percent workforce housing law!

Through the leadership of Council Member Stacy Crivello, the requirement was lowered to 25 percent, which I hope will help to spur reasonably priced homes.

The basic formula is supply must outpace demand to maintain realistic prices. This can only be accomplished on a large scale through the private sector taking the lead and not government. Government’s role is to set a plan of where development can occur, but cannot overly micromanage how units are built. Regular review of our policies is also a must and adjustments must be made to ensure they are workable for our community. One recent example is the council reduced the time for which the county must exercise its purchase option for affordable housing developments from 120 to 90 days. This minor change allowed for buyers to qualify for Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae loans and is estimated to save between $400 to $500 per month on a mortgage. Lowering the cost of housing will not be solved overnight, but it will take continual focus and dedication to chip away at this issue.”

Frequently asked questions on voting The following questions and answers are from the State of Hawaii Office of Elections website:

remain secret as provided by the Hawaii State Constitution.

Q: I will be out of town on Election Day. How can I vote?

A: You can request a mail ballot by completing a Wikiwiki Absentee Application and submitting it to your Clerk’s Office. Deadline to request a mail ballot is Aug. 6. You can also vote at an early Q: I did not receive my yellow card. walk-in location from Aug. 1 to 11, A: Contact the clerk’s office at 2707749, to find out the status of your Vot- 2016. ¯ Maui Office of the County Clerk at er Notification and Address Confirmation (Yellow Card).

200 South High St., 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday to Saturday.

Q: Do I have to vote according to ¯ Mitchell Pauole Center Conference party affiliation?

Room at 90 Ainoa St., Kaunakakai, 8 A: Voters are not required to declare a political party preference prior to vot- a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday ing. However, voters should know that (closed from noon to 1 p.m. ) and SatHawaii conducts a single party primary urday from 8 a.m. to noon.

Learn more about early voting by election in which voters select candivisiting www.elections.hawaii.gov/ dates from the party of their choice. A voters/early-voting/. voter’s choice of party and candidates

Q: What time are the polls open on Election Day? A: Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. If you are in line at 6 p.m., you will be allowed to vote.

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