2018 Primary Election Candidates

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OHARA, Eileen
Name on ballot:

OHARA, Eileen

Running for:

Hawaii Island County Council

District (if applicable):

District 4

Political party:

Democrat

Campaign website:

http://ohara4puna.com

Current occupation:

County Council Member

Age:

66

Previous job history:

University Professor (UHH, Kaplan, Purdue Global), County of Hawaii Recycling Coordinator/Planner, State Contract Manager, HELCO Renewable Energy Specialist

Previous elected office, if any:

Hawaii County Council

What qualifies you to represent the people of Hawaii?

With my family, I've resided in Lower Puna for nearly 40 years. I've served as President of two homeowner associations, run an agriculture and consulting business in the community, and received a masters and doctorate in economics from UHM. I have worked in both the private and public sectors and have formed many useful relationships with county, state and federal agencies and within the community to help resolve problems in my district and the County of Hawaii. I am passionate about serving the people of Puna, especially now as Puna struggles with the volcanic eruption and will need effective leadership in the recovery stage.

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

Puna needs many improvements: better road connectivity, more police officers, and more opportunities to stimulate business and create jobs

If elected, what will be your highest legislative priority?

Ensuring adequate housing and land for those who recently lost their homes and farm businesses

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

Help stimulate our local economy by developing attractions that will bring people into Puna and allow them to stay in the community and utilize local businesses such as commencing a lava viewing program and building a lava museum in Pahoa.

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

I served on the Environmental Council for four years which is the State Commission to the Office of Environmental Quality Control and served on the 2010 County Cost of Government Commission. I am a dog agility enthusiast.

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