Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green on Wednesday reappointed Matthias Kusch to fill a seat that opened up with the death in June of state Rep. Mark Nakashima.

Kusch will represent House District 1 (Hāmākua, a portion of Hilo and Kaumana) for a full two-year term.

Kusch held the seat since his initial appointment by Green in August.

But, because Nakashima was unopposed in the Aug. 10 primary and the Nov. 5 general election, Kusch could serve only until Nov. 5.

Green made his selection of Kusch from a list of three candidates recommended to the governor by the Hawaiʻi Island Democratic Party, as required by state law.

“Matthias Kusch has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the residents of House District 1,” Green said in a press release. “His experience as a community advocate, retired fire department Battalion Chief, farmer and active leader in local initiatives, ensures that the values and priorities of Hawaiʻi Island will be well represented in the Legislature.”

Speaker Nadine Nakamura said, “In recent months, working alongside Representative Kusch, we have seen his dedication and readiness to serve his island home. We look forward to the ideas he’ll bring to the Legislature in the 33rd General Session.”

The Legislature’s session begins Jan. 15.

Kusch’s experience also includes advocating for affordable housing and serving as a founding member of Hilo Bayfront Trails and as a participant on the Windward Planning Commission.