GaryHooser's Blog

After speaking with many residents of Hilo and the surrounding area, and based on my personal experience knowing and working directly over the years with both the incumbent Senator Lorraine Inouye and the challenger former Senator Laura Acasio, it is without question “if I lived in the district” my vote for State Senate District #1 Panaewa, Keaukaha, Hilo, Waiākea, Waiākea Uka, Kaūmana, Pi’ihonua, Wainaku, Pauka’a, Papa’iko, Pepe’ekeo would be for Laura Acasio.

Both candidates love their communities and I’ve nothing bad to say about the current incumbent. My interactions with Senator Lorraine Inouye during my 8 years serving alongside her in the Hawai’i Senate were always professional and mutually respectful. 

I’m supporting Laura Acasio because I know without a shred of doubt she represents the next generation of leadership our collective community desperately needs right now.

She has the knowledge, experience, and the core values we need in every candidate seeking to serve.

But the icing on the cake with Acasio is she has the drive, commitment, and that unique fire in the belly needed at this particular point in time. 

We need the new ideas, the energy, and the drive that Laura Acasio brings to the table.

Unfortunately the old guard rarely steps away willingly. 

Without term limits in place, it’s left up to voters to kindly, gently, but firmly tell the old guard – mahalo plenty but it’s time for you to step back so others can step forward.

There are other good people running for election to serve the people living in Hawai’i County and I encourage voters to review the endorsements of HuliPac and “Help Uplift Leaders with Integrity”.

Ballots will start arriving in the mail very soon. To register or check on your voting registration go to: https://olvr.hawaii.gov

Your vote can make a difference.  

Please, help elect Laura Acasio and other good people on all islands (see my list of endorsed House Reps statewide) representing the next generation of leadership that will help us achieve what we want (mahalo to HuliPac for the list).

Sincerely,
Gary Hooser
Former Hawai’i State Senator and Majority Leader (2002 – 2010)

Note: Because of the volume, and because much of my email is done “on the fly” via my iPhone – please ignore my typos or sometimes disjointed sentences 😉 Sign up for my somewhat unconventional email newsletter (though it’s not really a newsletter but I don’t know what else to call it) – Policy & Politics

In 30 days or less voters will begin receiving their primary election ballot in the mail. Visit https://olvr.hawaii.gov to register or update your registration.

On Kaua`i all 7 council members are elected “at large” (not by district). Therefore each voter “may” cast up to 7 votes. Some voters will choose to cast only a single vote for their top choice and others will cast the full 7 votes they are allowed.

Prior to casting your vote, I encourage you to reach out to all 17 candidates (see complete list below) who are seeking to gain 1 of your 7 votes. Share with each your thoughts on Kaua`i policy and politics.

**Again, regardless of the island or races involved – all are encouraged to complete this exercise by contacting candidates on your island and in your district.

Seriously. Take the time. Send each candidate a note. Introduce yourself and share your thoughts and concerns on important County issues. The nature of their response, or their failure to respond, will help ensure you make an informed voting decision.

*Spoiler Alert – I’ve written at the very bottom of this piece…about the actual responses I received when I did this exercise myself...5 of 17 candidates responded to my email outreach. Only 5 of 17 candidates took the time to respond to a local voter asking simple basic questions. Sheesh. WUWT?

My own priorities include the below topics, but please create your own list and send out that email – sooner rather than later is always best.

Bill No. 2922 will “allow the sale of intoxicating liquor at the Wailua Golf Course…and at County stadium facilities for community and special events…”. Why on earth do we need to allow the sale of “intoxicating liquor” at any County facility? Nothing good IMHO will come of this.

County Auditor – Why has the council not appointed a county auditor as required by the Charter? The council must do what’s s necessary to identify and hire a competent independent auditor whose job is to identify county government inefficiencies and expose – waste, fraud, and abuse.

Homeless/Houseless – Until space is available in our homeless shelters, the county should identify a suitable property, provide security and basic toilet facilities – for local homeless residents to sleep in their cars at night without fear of arrest or harm. Not a 24/7 camping facility but a safe, legal place to park their cars and sleep between the hours of 6pm and possibly 8am.

Cesspool/Septic Conversion – Instead of forcing home-owners to pay $30,000 to $40,000 to convert from a cess-pool to a septic system, homeowners should have access to conventional modern sewer systems – end of story. Money to pay for it must come from the federal, state, county government and the homeowners – But leadership on this issue, starting with a credible and specific long-term plan, must come from the county.

Expand Youth Programs – Kaua`i County should have the best after-school and summer/holiday youth programs on the planet – paid for by second-home absentee owners who can well afford it.

Youth sports, surfing, swimming, theatre, art, technology, and more. These programs and activities are already offered by private entrepreneurs and various organizations, and there’s no need to reinvent the wheel. The county should support increased access to existing private programs by providing funding assistance and transportation support to underserved youth who otherwise are unable to participate.

The exercise is easy really. It’s easy and it will yield valuable information upon which to base your vote.

Contact each council candidate, ask them your questions, share with them your concerns, and then compare their responses (or lack thereof) before making your final voting decision.

Abe Apilado Jr. a.apilado74@gmail.com, Addison Bulosan addisonbulosan@gmail.com, Bernard Carvalho carvalhob003@hawaii.rr.com, Felicia Cowden feliciacowden@gmail.com, Sherri Cummings malamaanahola.sc@gmail.com, Billy DeCosta billyndrena@hawaii.rr.com, Ana Mo Des voteanamodes@gmail.com, Fern Holland votefern@gmail.com, Ross Kagawa kagawar004@hawaii.rr.com, Arryl Kaneshiro arrylkaneshiro@gmail.com, Butch W. Keahiolalo butchkeahiolalo@gmail.com, KipuKai Kualii kipukai.kualii@gmail.com, Jeffrey Linder lindnerji@gmail.com, Jacquelyn (Jakki) Nelson nelson5599@twc.com, Mel Rapozo melrapozo@gmail.com, Bart Thomas bart@voteforbartkauai.com, Clint Yago clintsr54@gmail.com

Please, please, please write your own email and send it out…and then let me know your response. Regardless of where you live…what island or whatever…try this exercise out on candidates who are seeking your vote!

Now a report on the results that I actually got.

Title: Results of the policy and politics “exercise”

I wrote last week, “Contact each council candidate, ask them your questions, share your concerns, and compare their responses (or lack thereof) before making your final voting decision.”

So I did.

I sent a short email to each of the 17 candidates running for election to the Kaua`i County Council asking for their thoughts on a handful of issues. In the subject line I put “Questions from a voter”.

So far, ten days later, I’ve received 5 responses.

I sent a second follow-up email just in case the first one got lost.

17 candidates for the Kaua`i County Council and 5 took the time to respond to my very basic (and friendly in tone) email.

Needless to say, I’m impressed with the 5 and appreciate the courtesy they’ve shown by taking the time to respond.

Mahalo to incumbent CouncilMembers Addison Bulosan and Felicia Cowden for your personal, prompt and thoughtful response to my questions and concerns. Mahalo also to incumbent Councilmember Ross Kagawa who responded also…but it was a day too late for me to include in my original The Garden Island column.

Mahalo also to new council candidates Fern Holland and Abe Apilado Jr. for likewise being responsive to my outreach.

From each of the 5 responses I learned something valuable.

Councilmember Bulosan reinforced my understanding that he does his homework, thinks through various options, and then seeks a collaborative path forward toward solutions.

Councilmember Cowden’s response demonstrated clearly her high level of empathy for all who live in our community. Her commitment to “show up” and engage with the community is unquestionable.

Councilmember Kagawa’s email came in after the requested deadline. To put it mildly, Councilmember Kagawa and I have not always seen eye to eye on issues that came before us, and I was pleasantly surprised when I saw his note. Rather than just ignoring my request and tossing it into the trash, he spent his valuable time offering a thoughtful response. Mahalo Councilmember!

New candidate Fern Holland is a change-maker, an incredibly hard worker, and someone who thrives on problem-solving and community collaboration. She doesn’t wait for the community to get involved but knows the importance of actively reaching out and engaging them in the process. Fern’s response was “forward-thinking”, reflecting an attitude of abundance rather than scarcity.

Abe Apilado Jr. is also running for election to the council and responded saying, “I will humbly bow out of answering questions via email…however I will be doing voter registration pop ups…from time to time…Maybe we can talk story then.”

While initially taken aback by his response, the fact that he took the time and courtesy to reply – motivated me to look him up.

What I found on FaceBook was a video campaign announcement demonstrating on no uncertain terms that Abe Apilado Jr. has a huge heart. While I am not clear about what other skills or qualifications he may hold, his underlying motivation to serve the community is solid.

These 5 candidates responded to this voters email outreach and consequently have earned my added attention and appreciation.

As to the other 12 – why they failed to respond I do not know.

Perhaps they’re busy, in poor health, traveling, or their email is not working properly, or they “don’t do email”, or maybe they just think it doesn’t matter.

Easy accessibility is a fundamental attribute needed for anyone trying to earn the votes of people in the community. No legislator, council member, or candidate, should be too busy to check their email and get back promptly to a constituent/voter who reaches out.

Gary Hooser
The above represents the consolidation of two different columns published in The Garden Island newspaper.

The cynics will say it don’t matter. Don’t waste your time. The fix is in and they’re all a bunch of crooks anyway.

That my friends is hogwash. Hogwash designed to keep you from taking control of your own government. Hogwash to keep you home, to keep you from showing up to elect true change-makers.

As someone who has served at the County Council level and as a Hawai’i State Senator, I know from personal experience that your vote matters.

Your vote matters and many excellent candidates, true change-makers, are at this very moment running for election to serve you.

They need your vote to win. And we collectively, oh so desperately need them to win. Please do your part and show up.

You will soon begin receiving a primary election ballot in the mail. If needed, visit https://olvr.hawaii.gov to register or update your registration.

Voting could not be any easier. Your ballot comes in the mail, you fill it out and mail it back in the postage paid envelope. That’s it. Duck soup.

Unfortunately in the 2022 Hawai’i primary elections 60% of voters chose to not even open the envelope, check off a few boxes, put it back in the return envelope – and walk it out to the mail box.

513,715 residents literally left their votes on the table, or perhaps the kitchen counter.

Why? I get it that people are busy and disenchanted with government and politicians, but to change things for the better we must show up and vote into office better leaders.

There are excellent candidates out there who can truly help change our government and our world for the better, but we gotta show up and vote for them.

If we don’t show up, we just get the same ole, same ole. It’s a self-fulfilling prophesy and you and I must be the ones to break the cycle.

We can and we must do better.

I’ve written before about the many “change-makers” running for office on every island. For those interested I’ve posted a running list on my blog https://garyhooser.blog/2024/06/23/if-i-lived-in-the-districtvoting-for-the-house/

Electing any one of these change-maker candidates will push the needle in the right direction. Electing a handful could literally change the world as we know it here locally.

Imagine for a moment that Hawaii’s public education system was the best on the planet. Imagine our streets were the safest and truly affordable housing was not just a pipe dream or a bad joke. Think for a second about what is possible if we elected leaders willing to make off-shore investors, and large foreign owned corporations pay their fair share.

Hawai’i can lead and set an example for the world to follow in many areas, but to get there we must lead first at the ballot box. Yep. We gotta show up.

To be clear we don’t need to find and elect 51 new members of the State House of Representatives, nor do we need to throw out all 25 State Senators. We have good people there now, but we need more of them.

Sending even just a handful of new, strong voices to represent us in that big square building can change the conversation, expose the corruption, and bring sunlight and positive change in its place.

We have good, solid, change-maker candidates running – it’s up to us now to show up, vote, and close the deal.

Let’s do this.

Gary Hooser
Former County Councilmember, Hawai’i State Senator and Majority Leader
First published in the Hawai’i Filipino Chronicle.
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The most important race in the Hawaiʻi primary election on August 10th is for State House of Representatives District 25 (Ala Moana, Kaka‘ako, Downtown). Entrepreneur, attorney, philanthropist, and dedicated community advocate Kim Coco Iwamoto Versus Speaker of the House Scott Saiki.

Long time political columnist David Shapiro summed it up perfectly in his column How to Clean Up Corruption. One politician at a time, writing – “Saiki vs. Iwamoto is the best chance to significantly upset Hawaii’s political status quo in 2024.”

I agree 100%.

The corruption, the pay-to-play, the do nothing, good ole boy, self-centered toxic culture that permeates that big square building on Beretania Street – has got to go.

The election of Kim Coco Iwamoto would indeed rock the house. A former member of the State Board of Education and Civil Rights Commission, Kim Coco Iwamoto is values based, smart, hard working, collaborative yet independent, and fearless.

We desperately need to elect new leaders like Kim Coco Iwamoto who understand the depth of our community challenges, and who’re willing to roll up their sleeves and do the heavy lifting needed to take us forward.

Two other new candidates also deserving our strong support include Ikaika Lardizabal Hussey running for the House in District 29 (Kahauiki, Kalihi, Kapalama) and Tina Grandinetti running for District 20 (Lē‘ahi, Kāhala, Wai‘alae, Kaimukī, Kapahulu). These two individuals are cut from a similar cloth. They understand the importance of supporting working men and women, the need to build truly affordable housing, and that protecting people and the planet must always come first.

There are a handful of incumbents that meet the “change-maker” definition as well. Running for reelection is Representative Natalia Hussey-Burdick in District 50 (Kailua, Kāne‘ohe Bay, and Marine Corps Base Hawai‘i), Representative Jeanné Kapela District 5 (South Kona, Na’alehu, Kalehu, Ka’u, Pahala), and Representative Amy Perruso District 46 (Portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village, Waialua, Mokulē‘ia).

The successful election of these true change-makers – individuals who are willing to stand up and speak truth to power in the legislature, willing to pull back the curtain on corruption and ethical abuse, and willing to put community needs ahead of ego and bank account – can in fact change our world.

What characteristics make up a true change-maker candidate? I’ve posted my thoughts on the question here: – “Looking For Change-Makers”

When good and strong people on the inside are willing to raise their hands, ask the tough questions and speak-out – then community members are motivated even more to step forward. The combination is powerful and can move mountains.

But it will not happen unless we make it so. It’s up to us as citizens to take ownership of our government, step up to help the change-makers win, and then stick with them and support the positive changes that are possible.

Showing up to vote is essential, but not enough. We each must do more.

Every campaign needs people on the ground, knocking on doors, holding signs along the highway, making telephone calls, hosting and volunteering to help with coffee hours etc.

While living and voting in the district is the ideal, at this point with ballots set to be going out in just a few weeks, it don’t matter. Your help is needed – regardless of where you live.

Please check out their websites, learn more about them, and then reach out to a change-maker candidate today, and offer to help. Show up to “hold signs” on the highway. Hit “like” when you see their social media posts and “share” those posts to your networks.

And yes, send in a few dollars as well, whether it be $20 or $200. Today, I’m asking especially that you consider making an online donation towards the reelection of Representative Natalia Hussey-Burdick who is one of the hardest working, values-based legislators I’ve ever known.

Trust me on this. Every person that can show up, and every dollar that can be contributed is needed now more than ever during this critical home-stretch sprint to the finish line.

Don’t wait. In the islands, the Primary Election is everything and the next 3 weeks are all-important.

**Note – Many have asked me, “If you lived in my district, who would you vote for?” In response, I have started compiling this list posted here – starting primarily with the new candidates running for election to the State House of Representatives. Moving forward I will be adding new candidates and incumbents…and broadening to the State Senate, County Councils and other races.

Mahalo,
Gary Hooser
Former Hawaiʻi State Senator, County Councilmember and many other things.
Note: The above was first published in the Hawaiʻi Filipino Chronicle, “Upsetting the Hawaiʻi Political Applecart”

In response to requests from friends and networks across the islands – The below is a list of 15 candidates running for the State House of Representatives that I would vote for if I lived in that District.

In Hawai’i the primary election is everything and ballots will be going out in the mail in the coming weeks. Register to vote or update your registration here.

This is just me, Gary Hooser, passing on my thoughts and opinion – and is not on behalf of any organization.

I’ve only included candidates that have a “contested primary” and will revise this list and add new names prior to the November General election.

No candidate listed below was consulted or is aware of this list/posting until it actually happens. No one approves this list – it is my opinion, based on my experience after watching, reading, and studying both the talk and the walk/actions of each of these individuals.

I know personally and have worked along side almost every single one of them and do not take lightly my responsibility to you the reader.

At the end of the day, I encourage you to engage the process, go to their websites, do your homework, talk to the candidates yourself – and then vote your na’au.

House District 2 (Hilo) Tanya Yamanaka Aynessazian – Tanya walks the talk working and living a life of caring and compassion. She’s served on the front lines as a care-giver, as a details driven program leader, and administrator for over twenty years. She seeks now to take the culture of caring to an entirely new level.

House District 3 (Portion of Hilo, Keaukaha, Orchidlands Estate, Ainaloa, Hawaiian Acres, Fern Acres, portions of Kurtistown and Kea’au) Kiana (Keawekane) Kanahele is an incredibly strong community advocate with a powerful message focused on community education and civic engagement. Do yourself a favor, whether your live in her district or not – visit her website, check her out, and then help her win…for when Kuulei wins…all Hawai’i will win.

District 5 (South Kona, Na’alehu, Kalehu, Ka’u, Pahala) *Jeanné Kapela – Jeanné believes that economic and social justice are essential to our democracy. She is eager to craft a Green New Deal that protects people and our planet from the twin threats of economic inequality and climate change. You/we can count of Jeanné Kapela to stand up and be counted on the issues and values that matter. She is bold, articulate, and works hard every single day to make our planet a better place.

District 13 (Moloka’i, Lāna‘i, Kaho‘olawe, portion of Kahului, Ha‘ikū, Pe‘ahi, Huelo, Nāhiku, Hāna, Kīpahulu) *Mahina Poepoe – her values and mission is captured in the opening phrase on her website “Mōhala i ka wai ka maka o ka pua – Unfolded by the water are the faces of flowers. Flowers thrive where there is water, as thriving people are found where living conditions are good.”

District 14 (Kahakuloa, Waihe‘e, portions of Waiehu and Mā‘alaea, Olowalu, Lahaina, Lahainaluna, Kā‘anapali, Māhinahina Camp, Kahana, Honokahua) *Elle Cochran – Elle is no shrinking violet (pun intended) and this quote from the Laihana News says it pretty clearly – “Sporting a vivid purple hair rinse and a colorful flower array, State Representative Elle Cochran sat down to discuss events at the legislature…critical of how decisions are made there and the lack of transparency and accountability.”

District 20 (Lē‘ahi, Kāhala, Wai‘alae, Kaimukī, Kapahulu) Tina Grandinetti – Tina is focused on making our world a better place. She has the experience, the education, and the interpersonal communications skills needed to be incredibly effective – but more importantly she listens to her na’au and goes where it leads her.

District 23 (McCully, Mōʻiliʻili, Pāwaʻa, Kapahulu, Lower Makiki, and Ala Moana) Ian Ross worked as the Public Policy and Advocacy Manager of the Hawai’i Alzheimer’s Association, is the current Public Affairs Director of the Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center, and Chair of the Makiki Neighborhood Board. This diverse experience shows clearly his core values and ability to navigate complex conversations.

District 25 (Ala Moana, Kaka‘ako, Downtown) Kim Coco Iwamoto – Entrepreneur, attorney, philanthropist, and dedicated community advocate Kim Coco Iwamoto is without question the candidate and the new leadership we need in the State House. Long time political columnist David Shapiro summed it up perfectly in his column – How to Clean Up Corruption. One politician at a time, writing – “Saiki vs. Iwamoto is the best chance to significantly upset Hawaii’s political status quo in 2024.”

District 29 (Kahauiki, Kalihi, Kapalama) Ikaika Lardizabal Hussey – Ikaika knows deep down in his core the importance of supporting working men and women and that protecting people and the planet must always come first. This is who he is, what he does and what he has been doing his entire life. Ikaika is the real deal.

District 30 (Kalihi, Kalihi Kai, Ke‘ehi Lagoon, Hickam Village) *Sonny Ganaden – Criminal justice reform and caring for the people in District 30 are Sonny’s top priorities. He’s provided me and many others with a much needed education on the topic of bail reform and criminal justice reform in general.

District 39 (Royal Kunia, Village Park, Honouliuli, Ho‘opili, and Portion of Waipahu) Corey Rosenlee is a life-long educator, high school social-studies teacher, and former President of the Hawai’i State Teachers Association. Corey is a true powerhouse who understands the importance of civic engagement, community problem-solving, and social responsibility.

House District 42 (Portions of Varona Village, ‘Ewa, and Kapolei, Fernandez Village) Summer-Lee Yadao is dedicated, proven and effective. Her platform is rooted in the principles of affordability, sustainability, and cultural preservation. With a focus on affordable housing, native Hawaiian rights, and environmental protections, she aims to create a more equitable and resilient future for Hawaii’s communities.

House District 45 (Wai‘anae, Mākaha) Desiré DeSoto is solidly qualified with a resume that ranges from professional surfer, to High School Counselor of the Year, to Waiʻanae Comprehensive Health Center Board of Directors, to a PHD in organizational psychology. Needless to say the current House of Representatives could certainly use her skills and experience.

District 46 (Portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village, Waialua, Mokulē’ia) *Amy Perruso – Leadership, commitment, balance, commitment, leadership, balance – these are the words that come to mind when I think about Amy Perruso. She is a true believer in the values that keep her awake at night AND she is willing to stand up and speak truth to power, even when that might make some of her colleagues in the House uncomfortable. I am so, so glad that Representative Amy Perruso serves all of us in the House. We are so fortunate to have her there.

District 50 (Kailua, Kāne‘ohe Bay, and Marine Corps Base Hawai’i) *Natalia Hussey-Burdick is fearless, community based, and one of the hardest working legislators in the building. I’ve been working in the policy and political environment for over 20 years and have seen countless legislators come and go – Trust me on this, Natalia Hussey-Burdick is a keeper and those residents in her district should count themselves lucky to have her there watching out for their interests.

Notes:
1) Only those candidates engaged in a “contested primary” are included. There are other good candidates running unopposed who are not included above.
2) * Asterisk indicate incumbent now serving in that office

Comments and questions from readers and candidates are welcome!

For timely updates sign up for my somewhat unconventional email newsletter (it’s not really a newsletter but I don’t know what else to call it) – Policy & Politics

Read also my blog piece – “Looking for Change-Makers”

The upcoming primary election ballot for Kaua’i at first glance looks a little boring – but read through because it’s not.

Not one member of our state legislative delegation has a primary challenger.

US Representative Jill Tokuda is also running unopposed.

State Senator Ronald Kouchi is not up for re-election until 2026.

Mayor Kawakami’s term expires in 2026 so he’s not on the ballot. Governor Josh Green is not up for re-election until 2026.

US Senator Mazie Hirono is facing two primary challengers, but expected to win without lifting a finger.

There’s no Presidential vote until November.

The nonpartisan Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) races do have numerous candidates running for various seats.

Incumbent Dan Ahuna is running for re-election to the Kaua’i seat has served us well and certainly will have my vote.

Former Congressman Kai Kahele is also a standout candidate running for the Hawaii Island OHA seat – (elected statewide). Full disclosure: I was a strong supporter of Kahele in his 2022 run for Governor and remain a strong supporter in his race for OHA.

And while I’m in the full disclosure mode, I positively love Council candidate Fern Holland. I’ve known, worked with, and served alongside Fern for many years, and my first and possibly only vote for Council will be for Holland.

Which brings me to why it‘s important we show up on August 10.

While the so-called “top-of-the-ticket” is unquestionably boring, the Council race is a place our one vote can make a difference.

To be clear, my perspective is based on personally knowing to some extent, every single one of the incumbents, and many of the challengers.

But…I’ll do my best to stick with the facts and history of past elections, leaving personalities on the side.

There are 17 candidates running for 7 positions. Each voter may cast “up to” 7 votes.

The top 14 vote-getters move through the primary and on to the general.

All 7 incumbents are running for re-election and (unless some October surprise happens in July) it’s easy to predict all will be in the top 14. It’s also a given that former Councilmember Arryl Kaneshiro and Fern Holland who finished just below Kagawa in 2022 will finish strong in the primary.

Bottom line: The top 9 slots are pretty much already locked in and positions 6, 7, 8, and 9, are where most of the “movement” must/will be.

Incumbent councilmembers DeCosta and Kagawa were almost tied for the bottom #7 slot in 2022, then Kagawa lost it coming in at #8 with Holland at #9.

2024 Political Reality: For either or both of the two strongest challengers to win, either or both of the two weakest incumbents must lose.

Experienced voters will look at theses dynamics and vote or “plunk” accordingly.

For those not familiar with the term, “plunking“ means not casting all 7 council votes and thus inadvertently helping your 6th or 7th choice beat your 1st and 2nd choices.

Experienced voters will just cast 1 vote, or a small handful perhaps 4 or 5, certainly not all 7.

No disrespect intended for the 8 candidates who ultimately fall into the bottom 8 slots.

There’s always the next election and 2026 will be a most interesting and important one. in 2026 we will elect a new Kauai Mayor, and two incumbent Councilmembers will be “termed out” thus ensuring the election of two new councilmembers.

But there’s more.

In 2026 there will be at least two council openings created by term limits PLUs those openings created by Councilmembers (Carvalho? Rapozo? Kaneshiro?) who decide to run for Mayor in 2026!

Translation-In 2026 there will be at least 3 new councilmembers elected, plus a new Mayor, plus our State Senate seat and all 3 House seats will be up again. And there will be a governors race.

So please show up on August 10, but know also that the excitement of 2026 is right around the corner.
Gary Hooser
As published 06/19/24 in TGI

A must read to get a glimpse at the bizarre Kauaʻi County Council “back-story” now going on. Journalist Emma Grunwald writing for “Kauaʻi Now” does her homework and quotes directly from what are normally private “executive session” minutes.

If you are interested in politics and government, and especially if you are interested in Kauai politics and government – this is an absolutely must read.

Read the whole thing. Read about the fear. Read about the anger. Read it closely and draw your own conclusions.

It is bizarre really. Bizarre and sad that a homeless fellow who has been judged mentally unfit to stand trial by two of three mental health professionals, is being thrown under the bus and sitting in jail, a powerless pawn caught in a judicial system that chews up guys like him and tosses them away, normally in secret, without a second thought – Mahalo to Emma Grunwald and Kauaʻi Now for pulling back the curtain.

Colleague alleges jailed artist’s letter for Kauaʻi councilman was a complaint, not a threat

Colleague alleges jailed artist’s letter for Kauaʻi councilman was a complaint, not a threat

Someone said to me recently, “Why do you bother doing the work you’re doing? Nothing you or I do is going to make a difference.”

My answer is, I don’t have a choice.

I am blessed (or cursed depending on your perspective) with a stomach that hurts when I see the injustice and just look the other way.

I feel it in my na‘au and cannot sleep at night.

To be clear, William Wallace charging up the hill with sword drawn to take out the bad guys is not something I aspire to.

But I do have a voice, a platform, some experience, and the capacity to help – so I must.

And please, don’t tell me nothing we do, no action we take, no phone call, no email, no lawsuit, and no carrying signs or marching in the street, is going to make a difference.

I beg to differ and have seen changes happen in my life-time.

In 1954, the year I was born, segregation under the “separate but equal” doctrine was ruled unconstitutional by the United States Supreme Court in the landmark case Brown v. Board of Education.

The world has come a long way since then. There’s been a multitude of positive changes made in our society. And those changes would not have happened except for the effort and work of individual people working together towards a common goal.

Yes, there continues to be far too much pain, sadness, and terrible stuff going on in the world, and yes we each as individuals can help make life and our planet better, healthier, and happier.

Dr. King said, “The Arc of the Moral Universe is Long, But it Bends Toward Justice.”

The big wins are important but so are the little ones.

The starfish story comes to mind. “A small girl walks on a beach after a storm rescuing the starfish onshore by throwing them back into the ocean. A man approaches the girl and points out to her there are miles of beach and hundreds of starfish she cannot possibly save, the girl listens politely, throws another starfish back into the surf and says, “Yes, but I made a difference for that one.”

To those drawn to this work: Listen to your na’au, do your homework, organize with friends, take action, and never, never quit.

Attack the big causes and climb those mountains that might at first seem insurmountable, but also take on those issues that can be resolved using your own personal labor and individual focus.

Challenge loudly and persistently the unjustness of the world, and then go out and pick up trash in your community. Join in support of a lawsuit fighting injustice and then load up the neighborhood kids who might not have a functioning family life, and take them along with your own children to the beach. Send those emails and make the calls

Just show up.

We can and we must keep working and fighting to make a positive difference in big ways and in small ones.

To the cynics who doubt our efforts are worth the time and energy, I ask that you join us, please. Join us as we pick up plastic and the drift nets, collect food for the food bank, and take those kids to the park. Come with us also to those council and legislative hearings where we testify, and push hard for the policy changes needed.

Trust me on this folks. Our voices and actions do make a difference.

My journey down this path started in 1992 fighting to save Makaleha Springs. I know from that experience and countless others since then, that our voices matter and our actions do make a difference.

To those that are doing the work and showing up, mahalo.

To everyone else, please join us. Your na’au will thank you for it.

Gary Hooser

First published in The Garden Island Newspaper 06/05/24
Note: Because of the volume, and because much of my writing is done “on the fly” via my iPhone – please ignore my typos or sometimes disjointed sentences 😉 Sign up for my somewhat unconventional email newsletter (though it’s not really a newsletter but I don’t know what else to call it) – Policy & Politics at https://policy-and-politics.mailchimpsites.com

In an effort to clear out my brain, I am compelled to think it through, and put down my thoughts in writing.

If you’re someone who likes to get into the weeds, you might enjoy the reading – Others maybe not so much 😉

A huge part of the problem with Act 39 is the complexity and its many moving parts. My guess is as this moves through the various County Council processes toward implementation, different lawyers will weigh in over time with different opinions.

Act 39’s primary author has stated that (the additional ADU component of) Act 39 does not impact Kauaʻi County because Kauaʻi has in place an ARU ordinance.

In Kauaʻi County, additional Rental Units (ARU’s) are permitted on residential lots in addition to the single ADU or Additional Dwelling Unit that’s also now allowed.

However Kauaʻi ARU’s by ordinance are limited in size to 800 square feet, may not be “CPR’d” and sold separately, may not be used as a short-term vacation rental, and must be for family use or rented long-term.

Why similar provisions were not placed on the proposed new density contained in Act 39 I do not know. But apparently because Kauaʻi has the ARU law in place, that’s sufficient to satisfy the requirements of Act 39 which says, “each county shall adopt or amend ordinances defining reasonable standards that allow for the construction of at least two accessory dwelling units, or the reasonable equivalent,”.

Again, I’ve been told by Act 39’s primary author that the Kauaʻi ARU ordinance (described briefly above) satisfies the requirements of Act 39 and that Kauaʻi will not be impacted by the specific requirement requiring the addition of one additional ADU.

I suppose the Kauaʻi Council could allow property owners to “opt out” of accepting ARU’s and instead “opt in” to building the second ADU that can be a larger “proper” home and not include the restrictions that control/limit ARU’s. But for the moment, according to Act 39’s main proponent, Kauaʻi residents will not be granted the additional ADU as described in Act 39.

And/or the courts could rule that ARU’s because of their restrictions are not “reasonably equivalent” to an ADU. In that case, Kauaʻi property owners could possibly receive both an additional ADU AND the ARU’s permitted by Kauaʻi ordinance. FYI that would = 6 total units on one lot (3 ADU’s and 3 ARU’s). That would certainly open still yet another can of worms.

Whew. Head spinning stuff.

So…(caveat – I am not a lawyer)…if it’s true that ARU’s as implemented in Kauaʻi County are “reasonably equivalent” then other County Councils can if they choose, comply with Act 39 by implementing a similar ARU law with similar restrictions and limitations.

Some have asked me to clarify how I came to the conclusion that the passage of Act 39 is a windfall for property owners and developers, and how it is that they make money instantly without doing anything at all.

Here it is in a nutshell:

Government, via Act 39, is giving property owners and developers the right to build an additional home on their property above and beyond what they were able to build prior to the law passing. This additional density has significant financial value, yet (unlike the ARU law cited above) there’s no assurance or requirement there will be a reciprocal public benefit in return.

NOTE: Because of the Kauai “ARU” twist and if in fact Act 39’s additional ADU provision does not apply to Kauaʻi County – then the below example does not apply in the same way to Kauaʻi County as it may in other County’s.

But here goes:

Take a fictional 1/4 acre lot valued at $400,000. That pre Act 39 lot was allowed to have two homes (primary dwelling and an additional dwelling unit). After the passage of Act 39 that same 1/4 acre lot is now allowed three homes, and consequently now automatically worth more money. It may be worth $100,000 to $200,000 more.

The owner of that property has done nothing to “earn” that extra money and it is in fact a financial windfall. The owner could immediately sell the lot and pocket the extra money, land bank it for his children, or develop the property with three homes and sell those 3 individual homes at market rates – making even more money. The owner is required to do absolutely nothing in return for the $100,000 to $200,000 in immediate profits that come with the passage of Act 39.

The legislature could have required that same lot owner to do certain things in return for the extra $100,000 to $200,000. They could have required the owner to actually build within a certain time frame, and to target a specific use or price point.

Provisions could have included for example: Only property owners who agree to build an additional dwelling unit within X years, and dedicate the use of that unit for either family occupancy or long term rental for at least X years – then and only then would that owner can gain the benefit of extra density valued at $100,000 to $200,000.

There are infinite variations of this theme including prohibitions against short-term vacation rentals, immediate “flipping” and selling the property, etc etc

However – Act 39 contains no requirements whatsoever while the property owners receive an immediate and significant financial benefit.

In my opinion, lawmakers should never give away tangible and monetary public benefits without a promise of something of tangible value being received by the public.

More clarifying thoughts on the Act 39 component that takes away the Kauaʻi Planning Commission’s authority to approve subdivisions in the urban district:

Supporters of Act 39 have attempted to emphasize the Kauaʻi Planning Commission’s apparent failure to deny subdivision applications in the past.

Whether or not this is true, I do not know. But I do know the Kauaʻi Subdivision ordinance clearly grants to the Commission the power and the legal authority to significantly influence a subdivisions character and physical design/map.

The Commission is further empowered by the Kauaʻi Subdivision Ordinance to require subdivisions to provide public access, and they have the power to influence the subdivision map and ultimate design of the subdivision relating to roadway access.

According to the Kauaʻi Subdivision ordinance, the Commission “…may deny any subdivision if a traffic problem would be created due to the inadequacy of existing public streets…”.

Further, the community process that’s required now by law helps ensure that public access to public lands mauka and makai, and to protect historical and cultural resources.

With the passage of Act 30 the Kauaʻi Planning Commission will lose its authority to approve subdivisions in the urban district (with some caveats), and the community likewise will lose its power to influence the process via public Commission meetings. They will also lose the right to file a “contested case hearing” which allows closer examination of the facts and process.

Bottom line: The Kauaʻi County Charter (unlike all other County Charters) grants the power of Subdivision to the Planning Commission and Act 39 takes away that power. While some individual commissioners may have been aware of SB3202, the Commission itself was never appropriately informed.

The Sunshine Law requires public notice and a public meeting in order for more than two members of the Commission to meet on issues pertaining to their actions and authority. No public meetings occurred, and thus unless the Sunshine law was violated, a majority of the Commission was not consulted nor informed of the pending change.

As I’ve stated in prior reviews of SB3202 – discussing and debating the plusses and minuses of the Planning Commission process is a valid and necessary conversation that should have been had. But because the Commission was not appropriately notified, that conversation was never able to occur.

Finally, if the primary motivation to enact Act 39 was the desire to speed and simplify the process for local families seeking to simply divide their existing homestead into two lots for their children or parents or grandparents to use – the proponents behind SB3202 could have limited the subdivision approval changes only to proposals of that nature. But they did not.

And…as I’ve stated over and over again during my past 20 years working in the arena of policy and politics:

Good people can look at the same facts and circumstances, and come to different conclusions.

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2024/bills/SB3202_CD1_.htm

Governor Green has signed SB3202 into law. This new law effectively circumvents the Kauaʻi County Charter by transferring the power of subdivision approval in the urban district, from the Planning Commission to a single individual, the Kauaʻi Planning Director.

The Charter says “…no land may be subdivided unless the proposed subdivision plans…have been approved by the planning commission.”

Below are just a few of the specific powers granted to the Planning Commission under the current Kauaʻi Subdivision ordinance.

“…shall approve, approve with condition or disapprove preliminary subdivision map…(and ultimately)…the final subdivision map”

“…may deny any subdivision if a traffic problem would be created due to the inadequacy of existing public streets…”

“…shall require…(dedication of) land for public access…preservation of significant historic and archaeological sites…”

“All decisions of the Planning Director…may be appealed…to the Planning Commission…”

“…may require the conveyance of a right-of-way …along the makai boundaries…(and) require lateral access…”

With the passage into law of SB3202 it’s now unclear if these specific powers (and others) will be retained by the Commission, transferred to the Director, or eliminated all-together.

SB3202, says “any administrative authority to accept, reject, and approve or deny any application for subdivision…within the state urban district…shall be vested with the director of the county agency responsible for land use or a single county officer…”.

Changes to the County Charter normally require multiple public hearings, placing the question on the ballot, and a vote by the people.

However the state legislature has via SB3202 effectively over-ridden the Kauaʻi Charter, without the people of Kauaʻi even knowing what was happening.

Another one of those “can’t make this stuff up” moments.

Clearly, the Planning Commission should have been informed of the pending proposal and formally asked for an opinion.

But they were not.

Obviously Kauaʻi Representative Luke Evslin as the primary architect of SB3202 knew about the strategy and the end-game. Recently released UIPA (freedom of information request) emails show also that Kauaʻi Planning Director Kaʻāina Hull was a strong supporter and active in conversations leading to its passage.

Yet there’s no record of any communication between the Planning Commission and Planning Department referencing SB3202, and no indication the Commission knew about its implications.

The Kauaʻi Charter also says “The Planning Director shall be appointed and may be removed by the commission.”

This begs the question – How come the boss wasn’t made aware of a pending proposal to decrease the boss’s authority and power?

The only legal way the Commission could have discussed SB3202 is via a publicly noticed meeting which did not happen.

The same UIPA obtained emails show U.S. Senator Brian Schatz was also part of these conversations along with his Senior Policy Advisor Michael Dahilig (who served under Mayor Kawakami as Managing Director, and as Kauaʻi Planning Director).

The question as to the effectiveness of the Planning Commission and the wisdom of transferring its power to approve urban subdivisions to the Planning Director is a legitimate one – but the process utilized to pass SB3202 – reeks.

SB3202 is basically an “end-around” citizen participation.

I have no doubt the individuals driving this effort believe it’s necessary to improve the process, speed development, and avoid the hours and hours of contentious public testimony that sometimes occurs at Planning Commission meetings.

But Kauaʻi residents and the Planning Commission itself should have been part of the conversation.

But they weren’t.

The impact of SB3202 on the subdivision process and County Charter is not incidental nor unintentional.The key supporters were aware the obtuse language in SB3202 would circumvent the Charter, reduce the Planning Commissions power, and increase the power and authority of the Planning Director.

Now what?

This whole bag of worms will no doubt now go to court, and to the Kauaʻi Council. What happens in the meantime is anyones guess.

Gary Hooser
First published 05/29/24 in The Garden Island

Note: Sign up for my somewhat unconventional email newsletter (though it’s not really a newsletter but I don’t know what else to call it) – Policy & Politics at https://policy-and-politics.mailchimpsites.com