“Executive sessions should be used sparingly. When we close those doors without cause, we lose the very people we are here to serve.”

“We must protect sacred sites, restore cultural landscapes, and prepare for sustainable use upon the return of those lands.”

The Hawaiʻi County seat is heavily rural with a unique set of challenges.

Big Island’s second-largest population center is facing a range of major challenges.

“We need to be increasing water stations, as well as putting a cap on how much water delivery companies can increase their prices during water emergency situations.”

“The increase in homeless people is exhausting our first responders, community resources and business owners.”

“Residents care about clean water and environmental protection, but many are struggling with the cost of living and cannot afford a cesspool conversion that may cost tens of thousands of dollars.”

“The Homelessness and Housing Fund is not functioning as intended and we need to determine quickly if adjustments can be made or if we need a new approach.”

“The county should start by looking at ways to regulate non-residents owning and operating STVRs. That money is not cyclical and does not stay here.”

“No community should be dependent on a single road during an emergency.”