Questions from the Community: Why do you serve as a Commissioner?

Kahoʻolawe continues to provide us with lessons on environmental responsibility, cultural learning, kuleana, laulima, aloha ʻāina and much more. Because of Kahoʻolawe, we as kanaka must constantly look at how our actions affect people and places. If we bring thought and consideration to the decisions made for Kahoʻolawe, then we will be able to assist all of Hawaiʻi. As a commissioner I know these considerations and decisions are difficult but very very necessary. If I can leave my term satisfied that Kahoʻolawe is on a better footing, then I will have helped a little. I know this though, it is very difficult being a commissioner. —Hōkūlani Holt, Director, Ka Hikina O Ka Lā, Hawai'i Papa o ke Ao, University of Hawaiʻi Maui College

I serve as a commissioner to represent the PKO and as I feel a deep commitment to Kanaloa Kahoʻolawe and a responsibility to assist in ensuring the well-being of the island in perpetuity. One goal during my term is to usher along the implementation of the I Ola Kanaloa plan. One small contribution that I can list in alignment with the plan is the development of the Kīhei Center, which holds amongst other things, long-term revenue generation potential to help fund further implementation of the plan. —Jonathan Ching D. Arch, Land and Property Manager, Office of Hawaiian Affairs (top row, third from left)

I made a commitment to Kahoʻolawe in 2005, when I first started working at the KIRC. When I left in 2011, I did so on the condition that I could be the County's representative on the commission, in order to continue to be involved with this impressive and dynamic organization, tasked with an extraordinary responsibility.  My goal is to support the staff and help obtain secure sources of funding to continue the KIRC's mission. —Michele McLean, Deputy Director of Planning, County of Maui