2018 Primary Election Candidates

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CHUNG, Aaron S.Y.
Name on ballot:

CHUNG, Aaron S.Y.

Running for:

Hawaii Island County Council

District (if applicable):

2

Political party:

Nonpartisan

Campaign website:

none

Current occupation:

Attorney

Age:

60

Previous job history:

1985-87 Law Clerk, Hon. Ernest Kubota, Third Circuit Court
1987-95 Deputy Corporation Counsel, County of Hawaii
1995-present Attorney at Law (solo practice)
1996-2004 Councilman, County of Hawaii
2014-present Councilman, County

Previous elected office, if any:

Councilman, County of Hawaii

What qualifies you to represent the people of Hawaii?

I think that all candidates, in their own way, have a genuine desire to improve the quality of life for those that live here. That is really the only qualification anyone should need to adequately represent the people of Hawaii. But in terms of which qualifications I have that are unique from others, I would say it’s my experience. Having served over 20 years in both the administrative and legislative branches of county government and having had the good fortune during that time of working with many can-do-minded individuals, including seven different mayors, I think that I can offer a historical perspective and level of pragmatism to every issue which comes our way. I also happen to place great value on the concepts of teamwork, honesty and fair-dealing. Finally, my eight years as a county attorney has come in handy as I believe that the ability of understanding the law is vital to good legislative decision-making.

What are the top three challenges facing the voters you seek to represent?

Now this is an interesting question that I have never before seen on a candidate survey, and in answer to it I say that there is only ONE CHALLENGE facing voters anywhere, and that is to be able to receive accurate information on candidates and ballot questions in order to make sound decisions when casting their vote.

If elected, what will be your highest legislative priority?

If the current situation cannot be improved administratively, the County Council should take legislative action to speed up the building permit process.

If elected, what can you do to improve the lives of your constituents?

I can say this much, improving the lives of our constituents won’t be accomplished by slashing services. I will continue to support funding for parks and recreational facilities and programs, more police protection, properly maintained roads, and a better mass transit system.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about you?

I was born and raised in Hilo and educated in our public schools system. I try to reflect the values of our small town--fairness, honesty, respect and open-mindedness--in my decision-making and the manner in which I carry out my duties

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