Will Espero

Party: Democratic

Age: 51

Job: Full-Time Legislator

Born in US Naval Base, Yokosuka, Japan. In Hawaii since 1982, arrived from Seattle

Contact: 685-5628, wespero@hotmail.com

Web site: www.winwithwill.com

Job history past 10 years:
State Senator 2002 to present; State Representative from 2000-2002 - 11 years in State Legislature

Ever run for public office? When? Outcome?
2006 - Won; 2002 - Won; 2000 - Won; 1992- Lost.

Other civic experience or community service:
Director - Ewa Beach Boys & Girls Club; Director - West Oahu Economic Development Association; Past AYSO Coach - Past Chair Ewa Neighborhod Board; Past Pres. Friends of Ewa Beach Library; PTSA

1) What qualifies you to be a member of the state Senate?
I am ending my 2nd term in the State Senate. My 8 years in the Senate have given me experience, skills and knowledge my opponents do not possess. My 21 years as a resident of Ewa Beach and my 20 years of community service enable me to represent my district in an effective way. My desire to help my neighbors, improve my community, and assist our children motivate me to serve.

2) What do you feel is the biggest problem facing the state and what would you do about it?
The state needs to provide job opportunities for our residents. I support pushing government construction projects forward quickly such as schools and roads. I believe Governor LIngle should move the rail transit system forward to create thousands of construction jobs. We must work with the federal government to work out visa problems so we can tap into the growing China market for tourism.

3) How would you have voted on House Bill 444, the civil unions bill? Explain.
HB444 was a difficult vote for me since I have gay friends. I voted NO on the measure. I do not feel it is a civil rights issue in the same vein of the African-American experience of the 60s like many proponents claim. I do believe in rights for gay couples and anti-discrimination laws.

4) How can the state help the city address the problem of homelessness?
I support safe zones and tent cities for the homeless for the short-term. I also support pre-fab trailors for transitional housing, 6-18 months. The state should spend more funds on affordable rentals and affordable housing. Funding for social workers to help the mentally ill homeless can also be increased.

5) What is your stance on increasing the general excise tax to balance the budget and/or fund needed programs?
The very last thing we want to do is increase the general excise tax. We should do all we can to avoid a GET increase. I support BINGO with revenues going to early eduation and healthcare.

6) What is your stance on gambling?
See answer to question 5. I also would be open to shipboard gambling directed towards tourists.