Age: 58
Job: State senator
Background: Pacific Center for Economic Development; morning drive radio personality, Hawaiian 105.1 KINE; former chairman, Democratic Party
Should there be additional restrictions on development in Kakaako? Why?
The Legislature recently made significant changes to Hawaii Community Development Authority. Act 61 reconstitutes the agency’s board, improves public notice requirements, requires separate hearings for development rule variances, and imposes a height limit of 418 feet. We’ll see how HCDA and the developers comply with these additional regulations.
What is your one big idea?
Food Resiliency. With geographic isolation, Hawaii imports approximately 92 percent of its food. An increase in the production of local food as a key state priority will lead to economic diversification, create new jobs, advance Hawaii’s long-term economic stability, and boost the food security of the people of Hawaii.
