Age: 57

Occupation: Business owner/VP of Communications

Years lived in area: 30+ years in Kihei (38 on Maui)

San Marcus High School, graduated with top honors; some college – Santa Barbara City College and Maui Community College

Experience:
A record of successfully collaborating to create solutions, from strengthening local school governance as an elected member of the State Board of Education, to helping the Board of Hui Malama Learning Center out of a dangerous debt-laden period, to co-founding Pacific Biodiesel to recycle waste cooking oil into renewable fuel.

I’m running for office because I believe it’s our kuleana to serve the community when the need arises.  My candidacy is not a personal career goal, but a desire to serve Mauians at the county level to work towards more transparent, responsive and efficient government. I feel very qualified for this position, as an involved citizen, sustainability champion, local business owner, parent and advocate for children’s needs.  I understand the balance required for smart growth and the responsibility of leadership for the greater good of our community.

• The overarching issue is Community Planning.  We need to respect the work that goes into planning, and use our Countywide Policy Plan as a guide for decision-making.

• County Governance is a big issue right now, and I join other Mauians who are fighting for our right to determine our form of governance in a November vote.

• Especially with HC&S closing down sugar production at the end of the year, agriculture is an equally important issue.  There’s an immediate need to focus on keeping Central Maui in agriculture that utilizes more regenerative and organic practices for healthy soil for food and fuel crops.

• Homelessness and affordable housing in our community need addressing now.