GREAT-1(15) Reso 24-129 RESOLUTION 24-129, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF GINA M. YOUNG AS DIRECTOR OF THE EAST MAUI REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY (GREAT-1(15))
Aloha Chair Uʻu-Hodgins and Members of the Committee,
I would like to express my support for the appointment of Gina Young as the Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority.
I have known Ms. Young for many years and consider her to be highly knowledgeable and qualified to serve in this position.
I served on the Hana Advisory Committee to the Maui Planning Commission, including a period as Chair of the Committee, during a time when Ms. Young worked in the Planning Department and was assigned as staff planner to support the HAC. In bringing matters before the Committee, Ms. Young was always extremely professional and prepared, providing the Committee with presentations that helped us clearly understand the items for our consideration, and answering our questions thoroughly to help us deliberate and make good recommendations on behalf of the Hana community.
During her time working with CM Sinenci's office, I have worked with Ms. Young on a number of issues that are important to our Hana community and the county as a whole, including the creation and development of the Department of Agriculture. She is extremely knowledgeable of the inner workings of the county government, the state water code, as well as the issues and needs of East Maui, and brings a true dedication and caring that is immeasurably valuable.
I respect that the community water authority board went through a very thorough and transparent process to review candidates for this position, and I fully support their selection of Ms. Young to serve as their Director. I respectfully encourage the Committee Members to approve her hiring in this role.
Aloha Chair Uʻu-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members of the GREAT Committee,
I am Amanda Martin and I support wholeheartedly the appointment of Gina M. Young as director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority.
I have known Gina for over 17 years. I consider her a good friend and someone that I can rely on. I have worked alongside Gina as volunteers at community events. She is loyal, trustworthy and dependable. Her infections laughter and casual sense of humor got everyone laughing.
She is a diligent individual who consistently shows her dedication towards her professional duties. She communicates well with everyone. Her firm understanding of the administrative and legislative branches of government makes her truly valuable.
I ask that you honor the appointment by the community board. They worked hard and diligently to select the best qualified candidate, which is Ms. Gina M. Young. I strongly believe she will exceed in her role as the EMRCB Director.
The Honorable Nohelani U'u-Hodgins, Chair
And members of the Government, Relations, Ethics, and Transparency (GREAT) Committee
200 High Street, 8th Floor
Wailuku, Hawaii 96793
RE: RESOLUTION 24-129, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF GINA M. YOUNG AS DIRECTOR OF THE EAST MAUI REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY (GREAT-1(15))
Dear Chair U'u-Hodgins and GREAT Committee Members,
I am sending this letter in support of Gina Young and ask that you confirm her to become the Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority.
I have experience in addressing water issues on Maui as I was the Division Chief in the County of Maui’s Department of Water Supply for the Water Resources and Planning Division from 2011 to 2014. During that tenure I worked with many of the communities, stakeholders, advocates and watershed partnerships in East Maui. Water use, supply and availability in East Maui are critical issues and after time I learned to appreciate the passion with which all of the water users feel toward this critical resource. Whether the topic was water conservation, watershed management or the Water Use and Development Plan, almost always, passions and emotions ran very high. The East Maui Regional Water Authority will play an important role in addressing East Maui’s water use, availability, allocation and preservation. Someone who is fair, transparent, intelligent and understands and respects long held tradition and the myriad of nuances with the legalities and historical use of water should be in the role of the Director of this very important body. Gina Flammer is that person.
I worked in the Planning Department for many of the years Gina was a planner in the permitting division, and came to know her quite well. Often times I would seek her advice in addressing difficult issues in Maui and had always been impressed by the depth of her knowledge and that Gina’s approach was always “solutions oriented.” I also observed the way Gina, often handling some of the more difficult issues in the Planning Department, was cool headed, logical and exhibited no drama. I was impressed by how she approached each challenge with openness and identified solutions creatively. I can appreciate that there may be concerns that she has not been a Director or in senior management – however many of the County’s past and present leadership have not been directors, and some of them were quite effective and successful. I respectfully offer, having spent 14 years working in the County for the Departments of Water Supply, Planning and Transportation (for the Maui Metropolitan Planning Organization), a requirement that previous tenure as a Director -- should not be the litmus test for this position. Gina has demonstrated her abilities in addressing land use planning, cultural and natural resource issues during her time in the Planning Department and especially on Council Member Sinenci’s staff. She has long standing relationships with East Maui communities and has earned their trust and support.
Please support Gina Young to be the Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority.
Committee Chair Nohealani U’u Hodgins
Vice-Chair Tamara Paltin, and Members
Government Relations, Ethics, and Transparency Committee
Maui County Council
Re: Resolution 24-129, Appointment of Gina M. Young as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority
Dear Chair Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Committee Members:
Eō e nā ʻōiwi ʻolino, nā pulapula a Hāloa I am writing to express my support for Gina Young as the Director for the East Maui Community Water Authority. Not only is she the best candidate, but the ʻAha Wai O Maui Hikina Community Board voted unanimously for her appointment after conducting a diligent selection process. She understands the need to heal the watershed, grow water and manage our resources responsibly — in lōkahi.
Our ancestors understood that all things are interconnected and the need for balance to provide survival and well-being. In East Maui, the cultural and generational knowledge of the ʻAha Wai O Maui Hikina Community Board will provide enduring and wise leadership.
Through my twenty years as an Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustee and ten of the years as the Chairperson, I understand the importance of good leadership. The leadership of this new Board has been an example of operating with excellence. Ms. Young’s responses to the interview questions demonstrate her commitment to the people of this area and all of Maui, extensive background in public service, existing relationships that will serve the authority well, and knowledge and respect.. She is absolutely correct that watershed restoration is a key aspect of the work of the authority. This work rests upon community input and involvement and it will help to revitalize the community in return. Ms. Young also clearly supports water for the Department of Hawaiian Homes and sees this as a priority. Her passion for DHHLʻs mission to provide housing for Native Hawaiians sets her apart from the other candidates.
I ask that you honor the work and leadership of the Board and confirm their selection of her to be their Director. May the work of this new Board and Water Authority not only improve the watershed but enable strength and vision for Maui and the paeʻāina of Hawaiʻi nei.
E ola i ka wai mau a mau!
S. Haunani Apoliona, Trustee Office of Hawaiian Affairs 1996-2016
I am Tom Croly and I’d like to express my support for confirming Gina Young as Director of the East Maui regional water authority.
I first came to know Gina about 15 years ago when she was serving as the president of the Kula community association. I was so impressed to see how she was able to lead civil meetings of the association that often dealt with controversial issues. I think everyone knows there are some very outspoken upcountry residents, who can tend to dominate the public discussions, but Gina displayed a unique talent to encourage all to be heard and as a result the Kula Community association produced thoughtful positions on community issues like the Maui Island Plan, the Bed and Breakfast and STRH ordinances and multiple upcountry water issues.
Soon after that first meeting, I was pleased to see that Gina was being considered for a position in the planning department. At that time I was working closely with the planning department to help improve the permitting process for B&Bs. In a very short period of time, Gina had established herself as one of the lead planners in the department, who the other planners looked to for guidance when processing permits. I observed that when Gina was presenting a permit application before the planning commission, she would quickly gained the confidence of the commission members, because she was always prepared to answer any question they might have.
Over the past 17 years, I have worked directly with more than 20 different planners in the current planning division. I can say without question that during the time Gina was in the department there was much better consistency between how planners processed permits. I often would tell permit seekers, there are planners who are problem makers and planners who are problem solvers. Gina was a problem solver. After she left the department, there was a notable lack of leadership amongst the planners and I saw planner decisions become much more inconsistent in their application of the code.
I think that Gina possesses a unique talent to lead through listening and making all involved felt heard. The difficult decisions about East Maui’s water is just the kind of task that would make the best use of Gina’s, well developed skill sets. And for these reasons I fully support her confirmation as Director of the East Maui Water Authority.
Re: RESOLUTION 24-129, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF GINA M. YOUNG AS DIRECTOR OF THE EAST MAUI REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY (GREAT-1(15))
Aloha e Government Relations, Ethics, And Transparency Committee,
This letter is given to provide testimony to the efficacy, enthusiastic and capable support given to initiatives which support Maui Hikina, and professional, sincere engagement, which I have had the privilege of receiving from Gina Young. As the Executive Director of the Hāna Business Council (HBC), in my role as a businessperson, community advocate, and nonprofit director, two main initiatives in which I have seen Gina assist in orchestrating broader community outreach, bridging Maui County departmental leadership and resources, have been in the areas of Workforce Development and the current Hāna Walking-Bikeway Plan.
Directly in the midst of the pandemic from the fall of 2020 through 2022, Gina shared her knowledge of working within the framework of the Maui County Budget, and assisted in shaping how local nonprofits were able to work with the Maui Office of Economic Development’s federal funding opportunities. Through the East Maui Council office, working with HBC and other nonprofit leadership, she assisted in successfully bringing internship positions to several nonprofits including the HBC, Kipahulu ʻOhana, Ke Aō Hāliʻi, Hāna Cultural Center and Hāna’s local low power radio station KOKO-LP. Prior to this she also was able to bring support to the ongoing development of an agricultural food aggregation system and agricultural hub planned for East Maui, which is strongly supported in the Hāna District and through the East Maui Council Office. In 2019, a series of engagements with vendors at our local weekly farmers market culminated with a mini competition where entrepreneurs shared their value-added food products in partnership with the UHMC Food Innovation Center. Gina worked with Councilmember Shane Sincenci in providing a dynamic overview of the history of agriculture and the relationship with the ʻāina to cultivate generational knowledge and expertise that comes from familiarity with kumu and kupuna in respective ahupuaʻa. Gina has made it her mission to respectfully articulate policy and listen – hoʻolohe – when important decisions need to be made for empowering next generation sustainability. From many conversations I have been party to, Gina is well respected for being a highly productive resource on policy and planning.
Finally, she has also been the bridge for the current study that is underway to plan sidewalk and bikeway improvement for the safety of our ʻohana, through the Hele Maui Maui Unified Workplan within the Maui Metropolitan Organization. Her knowledge of what departments to work with for effective action is invaluable!
I strongly support Gina and the decision to choose her as the director of the East Maui Water Authority.
Mahalo,
Heidi Lea,
Heidi Lea, WH6GXO
Hānaside News|Editorial Associate
Hāna Community News List Moderator
Hāna Business Council|Executive Director
Hoʻomakaukau Maui Hikina ~ East Maui Ready (EMR) Leadership Team|Community Liaison
Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United ~ Hāna Chapter|Hāna Hub Coordination
Email: Heidi@HanaMaui.com
iPhone (406) 600-4300
www.HanaMaui.com
Maui County Council Government Relations, Ethics, and Transparency Committee,
It is my great pleasure to write this letter of support for Gina Youngʻs appointment as the East Maui Water Authority Director. As you can see from Ginaʻs resume and interviews she has a deep commitment to and knowledge of community service, advocacy, policy development and implementation. I have known Gina for 22 years. We first worked together with Kula Community Association then on Kula School PTA. We worked most closely together while I served as medical director of Kula Hospital and she was on the Maui Region of HHSC Board of Directors, chairing the Kula and Lānaʻi oversight committee.
Ginaʻs work and community service experience makes her uniquely suited for this position. Her willingness to accept and skill in executing volunteer leadership positions very important in our community speak to her deep commitment to improving life for Maui residents. Through her volunteer and employed positions Gina has developed a wealth of skills, experience, and relationships that will serve the board well. Community Association work, planning department work, experience in legislative advocacy, financial background, Maui County council work focused on water use management - I canʻt imagine a candidate who could be better prepared for this position.
In our work together with Kula Community Association and with Kula Hospital, MMMC, and the Maui Region HHSC board I found Gina to be smart, enthusiastic and able to analyze complex situations and pinpoint what the most important issues were and where we should focus our efforts. Gina has a very grounded personality and approaches others with warmth and acceptance. She stays focused on issues and is able to manage othersʻ agendas and personalities to get good work done.
I am thrilled that the ʻAha Wai O Maui Hikina Community Board selected Gina Young for this important Director position to lead them in their ground breaking and precedent setting work. I really canʻt imagine a candidate who could be better positioned for this work. I ask that you honor the work and leadership of the Board and confirm her selection.
Mahalo for your time and consideration,
Nicole Apoliona, MD
My name is Sydney Smith and I’m the chair of the Ag Working Group. I’m testifying today on behalf of myself and the Ag Working Group.
I have personally known Gina Young for over twelve years. I worked with her when she was a planner in the Planning Department and when she joined council member Shane Sinenci’s staff. When Shane was the chair of the Council Agriculture Committee Gina joined our Ag Working Group meetings and she never minded staying far into the night as we worked through legislation and crafted solutions to our agriculture issues. Even after Council member Gabe Johnson received the Agriculture Committee, Gina stayed active in our group.
The Commissioners for the East Maui Water Authority were approved by this Council. I was at many of those meetings and your deliberations were careful and balanced. The Commission unanimously chose Gina Young among all the applicants. Their deliberations were also careful and balanced with complex questioning about Constitutional issues, public trust doctrine and cultural concerns. I was impressed with Gina’s grasp of the issues she will face as the Director of a brand new department. So were the Commissioners.
Please support the choice of the commissioners and confirm her appointment as Director of the East Maui Water Authority.
Chair U’U-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members
Government Relations, Ethics and Transparency Committee
Re: Appointment of Gina M. Young as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority
Aloha Chair U’u-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin, and Committee Members,
I am writing to express my support for Gina Young as the Director of the East Maui Water Authority (Resolution 24-129). Gina Young has over a decade of experience with the County of Maui as an aide to Council Sinenci and working on the Maui Planning Commission. More importantly, she has demonstrated a commitment to serving the people of Maui by participating on several community boards and engaging with the community.
I have only known Gina Young in a professional capacity since taking on my responsibilities as a member of the East Maui Regional Water Authority. In that brief time, I have been impressed with her understanding of the complicated inner workings of our local government and her ability to navigate those processes. She has an outstanding resume of experience here on Maui and she is more than qualified to fulfill all the duties of the director position.
I am confident that Gina Young will continue to serve our community as the Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority by performing her duties with integrity to ensure trust within our community.
I respectfully ask the GREAT Committee to confirm Resolution 24-129 The Appointment of Gina M. Young as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority.
Mahalo,
Francis Quitazol
I am writing in support of Gina Young’s pending appointment as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority. I have known Gina both personally and professionally for over 15 years. She reached out to me in 2017 when the Council was creating the position of Principal Archaeologist for guidance on desirable qualifications and salary. At that time, I had no plans to apply for the position, however, after COVID hit in the Spring of 2020, I applied and was awarded the position. Subsequently to my appointment, I worked extensively with Gina on the Environmental Agricultural and Cultural Protection and Agricultural and Public Trust committees. Gina is a natural leader and an excellent communicator. She understands the nuance required to be an effective community leader. Gina provides a balanced perspective and has strong community ties and an understanding of the importance of preserving traditional Hawaiian culture. It is with great pleasure that I highly recommend Gina Young be confirmed as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority. Please feel free to reach out to me at (808) 344-0566 or Janet.Six@co.maui.hi.us if you have any additional questions.
Mālama pono,
Janet Six, PhD
Principal Archaeologist for the County of Maui
Chair U’U-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members
Government Relations, Ethics and Transparency Committee
Maui County Council
Dear Chair U’u-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members,
I am writing in support of the East Maui Regional Water Authority's transparent process that led to the approval of Gina Young as Director of this new and important department. I have been impressed and inspired by the work of the Authority since its inception and I am hopeful that the GREAT committee and the County Council will honor the members' dedication and efforts.
I watched most of the interviews for the director position, which were conducted publicly in real-time, and was impressed by the Water Authority members’ questions and the job aspirants’ responses. It was refreshing to see a process that was conducted in an open and transparent manner, providing the public with the opportunity to learn about the candidates’ experiences, skills, and abilities, and further, to understand how the members of the Authority came to their decision.
While I believe that many of the candidates would bring valuable skills and experience to the position, I know from the interview process and my own experience that Gina Young will serve the position well.
Again, given the time and effort that were taken by the County Council to appoint the members of the East Maui Regional Water Authority, and the care that the Authority took in making their decision, I request that the GREAT Committee honor the members’ unanimous approval of Ms. Young, and approve Resolution 24-129.
Chair U’U-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members
Government Relations, Ethics and Transparency Committee
Maui County Council
Dear Chair U’u-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members,
I am writing in support of the East Maui Regional Water Authority's transparent process that led to the approval of Gina Young as Director of this new and important department. I have been impressed and inspired by the work of the Authority since its inception and I am hopeful that the GREAT committee and the County Council will honor the members' dedication and efforts.
I watched most of the interviews for the director position, which were conducted publicly in real-time, and was impressed by the Water Authority members’ questions and the job aspirants’ responses. It was refreshing to see a process that was conducted in an open and transparent manner, providing the public with the opportunity to learn about the candidates’ experiences, skills, and abilities, and further, to understand how the members of the Authority came to their decision.
While I believe that many of the candidates would bring valuable skills and experience to the position, I know from the interview process and my own experience that Gina Young will serve the position well.
Again, given the time and effort that were taken by the County Council to appoint the members of the East Maui Regional Water Authority, and the care that the Authority took in making their decision, I request that the GREAT Committee honor the members’ unanimous approval of Ms. Young, and approve Resolution 24-129.
My name is Jeff Dack and I reside in Wailuku. I urge you to adopt resolution 24-129. I worked for the Maui County Planning Department for 17 years, 13 of which were as the Supervisor of the Department’s Environmental Planning Section in the Current Division. I had the good fortune to be Gina Young’s supervisor when she initially joined the Department. Her initial work was to process permits in the County’s Special Management (Coastal) area. She was always a diligent, hard worker. While always maintaining the public interest utmost in her mind she was very accomplished at working cooperatively with applicants and any opposition which may have presented itself. She expressed respect, empathy and helpfulness to everyone and I believe that this early performance is a large reason that the Planning Director assigned her to be the lead planner to work with the County Council and Planning Commissions on major new bills regulating Short Term Rental Homes, and Bed and Breakfast Homes. She then led the team of planners implementing those new ordinances, with that team being named the Department Team of the Year and she named as Planner of the year.
While in the Planning Department for eight years Gina showed herself to be a great communicator and consensus builder on issues that were often controversial and otherwise difficult, with a friendly, diplomatic, but also pragmatic style. This often led repeat applicants to request that their new permit applications be assigned to her. I believe that all of the qualities I saw will lead her to be an effective leader and manager of the new Department and achieve the best results possible for the shorter and longer terms.
Chair U’U-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members
Government Relations, Ethics and Transparency Committee
Maui County Council
Dear Chair U’u-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members,
Thank you for considering this letter of reference for Gina Young. I have known Gina for more than 14 years. Our first meeting was when she was the president of the Kula Community Association. I was impressed how she ran meetings, even when government officials attended to discuss sometimes controversial topics - such as water. Gina was a staff planner when I became Planning Director in 2011, and I was her superior for 7.5 years. She was a pleasure to work with and conveyed a great attitude. She was always prepared for meetings, did the research, understood the issues and codes, and found creative ways to meet goals. Especially impressive was the way she carried herself in front of the Hana Advisory Committee, the Maui Planning Commission and County Council. Her presentations were always clear and understandable. Her demeanor was always fair to the public, applicants, and other professionals. Though in this position we didn’t always touch on native Hawaiian issues, when we did, she exhibited a sensitivity and understanding of the matter. Now she is an aide to Councilmember Sinenci, a native Hawaiian who spearheaded the creation of the East Maui Water Authority. As a consultant, I have worked with her from time to time on different matters before the Council. This position has brought her a deeper, perceptive understanding of politics and policy, native Hawaiian issues, as well as legislative process - the means to get things done. We have remained in touch while she holds this position and have found her to be effective, always personable.
Gina would make a good director and I would highly recommend her for this position.
Hana Architecture and Interior Design
P.O. Box 125 Hana, HI 96713 Phone: 808-248-4950 E-mail: notes4robin2@hanahawaii.net
August 4, 2024
Committee Chair Nohealani U’u Hodgins
Government Relations, Ethics, and Transparency Committee
Maui County Council
Re: Resolution 24-129, Appointment of Gina M. Young as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority
Dear Chair Hodgins, and GREAT Committee Members:
I am writing to express my support for Gina M. Young as the Director for the East Maui Community Water Authority.
I first worked with Ms. Young in 2011, while navigating some Hana architectural projects through the Maui Planning Department. I had the good fortune to be paired off with Ms. Young, a Senior Planner in the department at that time. She never hesitated to make the trip to Hana to help guide my clients in the planning policies. She brought a deep understanding of the regulations and provided clear guidance through the process. Over time, she developed a reputation in Hana as a person who could get things done successfully. When I would mention to a client that Gina Young would be on the team, there was always a sense of relief and an implication that the job would get done efficiently and timely.
When Ms. Young shifted positions to work with Councilman Shane Sinenci, I felt confident Hana would benefit. I watched her work, side by side with Councilman Sinenci, researching the minute details necessary to succeed in their various endeavors, dedicating herself to the Hana community and the goals established. In Hana, Ms. Young is known as a hard worker, and provides diligent review and recommendations through difficult challenges and issues. Her background, experience, and legal skills has prepared her to be an excellent manager and director.
I believe Ms. Young has the necessary wisdom, insight, and dedication to be an engaging and diligent Director. Her experience with the Maui County and the State of Hawaii government make her an excellent candidate for the position and will provide the community of Maui with the necessary expertise and guidance required for the position.
I strongly support her appointment and would ask that you honor the unanimous decision by the East Maui Regional Community Water Authority Board to appoint her as the Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority and confirm Resolution 24-129
I offer my strong support of Gina Young for the position as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority. I am a Board Member but providing testimony as an individual.
I ask that you honor the appointment made by the community board. We had a diligent Aloha selection and interview process making sure that the candidate we put forth best fits the needs of the authority.
Gina brings many years of experience including her understanding of both the administrative and legislative branches of government. She has worked along side many outstanding leaders in the community. I have observed Gina at community meetings and her ability to make everyone feel comfortable in participating and sharing their thoughts and ideas were remarkable.
Gina is the best qualified person and I urge you to approve this appointment.
I am writing to express my support for Ms. Gina M. Young as the Director of the East Maui Water Authority. I know Gina both professionally and personally and feel the Water Authority Board has made an excellent choice in appointing her to this important position. Please see my attached reference letter. Mahalo for your time!!. Best wishes to the Council and Ms. Young.
Aloha GREAT Committee. I'm testifying as an individual in support of Resolution No 24-129 approving the appointment of Gina Young as Executive Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority. I know Gina personally and have worked with her professionally and find her to be a solution-oriented consensus builder and effective negotiator. She can navigate complex water resource issues and understands the need to balance the community's diverse interests.
Mahalo
Eva Blumenstein
Makawao
Aloha Chair Uʻu-Hodgins and Members of the Committee,
I would like to express my support for the appointment of Gina Young as the Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority.
I have known Ms. Young for many years and consider her to be highly knowledgeable and qualified to serve in this position.
I served on the Hana Advisory Committee to the Maui Planning Commission, including a period as Chair of the Committee, during a time when Ms. Young worked in the Planning Department and was assigned as staff planner to support the HAC. In bringing matters before the Committee, Ms. Young was always extremely professional and prepared, providing the Committee with presentations that helped us clearly understand the items for our consideration, and answering our questions thoroughly to help us deliberate and make good recommendations on behalf of the Hana community.
During her time working with CM Sinenci's office, I have worked with Ms. Young on a number of issues that are important to our Hana community and the county as a whole, including the creation and development of the Department of Agriculture. She is extremely knowledgeable of the inner workings of the county government, the state water code, as well as the issues and needs of East Maui, and brings a true dedication and caring that is immeasurably valuable.
I respect that the community water authority board went through a very thorough and transparent process to review candidates for this position, and I fully support their selection of Ms. Young to serve as their Director. I respectfully encourage the Committee Members to approve her hiring in this role.
Mahalo,
Scott Crawford
Hana resident
Aloha Chair Uʻu-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members of the GREAT Committee,
I am Amanda Martin and I support wholeheartedly the appointment of Gina M. Young as director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority.
I have known Gina for over 17 years. I consider her a good friend and someone that I can rely on. I have worked alongside Gina as volunteers at community events. She is loyal, trustworthy and dependable. Her infections laughter and casual sense of humor got everyone laughing.
She is a diligent individual who consistently shows her dedication towards her professional duties. She communicates well with everyone. Her firm understanding of the administrative and legislative branches of government makes her truly valuable.
I ask that you honor the appointment by the community board. They worked hard and diligently to select the best qualified candidate, which is Ms. Gina M. Young. I strongly believe she will exceed in her role as the EMRCB Director.
Mahalo for your time and consideration.
Amanda M. Martin
Pamela Eaton
Maui, Hawaii
August 5, 2024
The Honorable Nohelani U'u-Hodgins, Chair
And members of the Government, Relations, Ethics, and Transparency (GREAT) Committee
200 High Street, 8th Floor
Wailuku, Hawaii 96793
RE: RESOLUTION 24-129, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF GINA M. YOUNG AS DIRECTOR OF THE EAST MAUI REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY (GREAT-1(15))
Dear Chair U'u-Hodgins and GREAT Committee Members,
I am sending this letter in support of Gina Young and ask that you confirm her to become the Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority.
I have experience in addressing water issues on Maui as I was the Division Chief in the County of Maui’s Department of Water Supply for the Water Resources and Planning Division from 2011 to 2014. During that tenure I worked with many of the communities, stakeholders, advocates and watershed partnerships in East Maui. Water use, supply and availability in East Maui are critical issues and after time I learned to appreciate the passion with which all of the water users feel toward this critical resource. Whether the topic was water conservation, watershed management or the Water Use and Development Plan, almost always, passions and emotions ran very high. The East Maui Regional Water Authority will play an important role in addressing East Maui’s water use, availability, allocation and preservation. Someone who is fair, transparent, intelligent and understands and respects long held tradition and the myriad of nuances with the legalities and historical use of water should be in the role of the Director of this very important body. Gina Flammer is that person.
I worked in the Planning Department for many of the years Gina was a planner in the permitting division, and came to know her quite well. Often times I would seek her advice in addressing difficult issues in Maui and had always been impressed by the depth of her knowledge and that Gina’s approach was always “solutions oriented.” I also observed the way Gina, often handling some of the more difficult issues in the Planning Department, was cool headed, logical and exhibited no drama. I was impressed by how she approached each challenge with openness and identified solutions creatively. I can appreciate that there may be concerns that she has not been a Director or in senior management – however many of the County’s past and present leadership have not been directors, and some of them were quite effective and successful. I respectfully offer, having spent 14 years working in the County for the Departments of Water Supply, Planning and Transportation (for the Maui Metropolitan Planning Organization), a requirement that previous tenure as a Director -- should not be the litmus test for this position. Gina has demonstrated her abilities in addressing land use planning, cultural and natural resource issues during her time in the Planning Department and especially on Council Member Sinenci’s staff. She has long standing relationships with East Maui communities and has earned their trust and support.
Please support Gina Young to be the Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority.
With respect,
Pam
Pamela Eaton
Committee Chair Nohealani U’u Hodgins
Vice-Chair Tamara Paltin, and Members
Government Relations, Ethics, and Transparency Committee
Maui County Council
Re: Resolution 24-129, Appointment of Gina M. Young as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority
Dear Chair Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Committee Members:
Eō e nā ʻōiwi ʻolino, nā pulapula a Hāloa I am writing to express my support for Gina Young as the Director for the East Maui Community Water Authority. Not only is she the best candidate, but the ʻAha Wai O Maui Hikina Community Board voted unanimously for her appointment after conducting a diligent selection process. She understands the need to heal the watershed, grow water and manage our resources responsibly — in lōkahi.
Our ancestors understood that all things are interconnected and the need for balance to provide survival and well-being. In East Maui, the cultural and generational knowledge of the ʻAha Wai O Maui Hikina Community Board will provide enduring and wise leadership.
Through my twenty years as an Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustee and ten of the years as the Chairperson, I understand the importance of good leadership. The leadership of this new Board has been an example of operating with excellence. Ms. Young’s responses to the interview questions demonstrate her commitment to the people of this area and all of Maui, extensive background in public service, existing relationships that will serve the authority well, and knowledge and respect.. She is absolutely correct that watershed restoration is a key aspect of the work of the authority. This work rests upon community input and involvement and it will help to revitalize the community in return. Ms. Young also clearly supports water for the Department of Hawaiian Homes and sees this as a priority. Her passion for DHHLʻs mission to provide housing for Native Hawaiians sets her apart from the other candidates.
I ask that you honor the work and leadership of the Board and confirm their selection of her to be their Director. May the work of this new Board and Water Authority not only improve the watershed but enable strength and vision for Maui and the paeʻāina of Hawaiʻi nei.
E ola i ka wai mau a mau!
S. Haunani Apoliona, Trustee Office of Hawaiian Affairs 1996-2016
I am Tom Croly and I’d like to express my support for confirming Gina Young as Director of the East Maui regional water authority.
I first came to know Gina about 15 years ago when she was serving as the president of the Kula community association. I was so impressed to see how she was able to lead civil meetings of the association that often dealt with controversial issues. I think everyone knows there are some very outspoken upcountry residents, who can tend to dominate the public discussions, but Gina displayed a unique talent to encourage all to be heard and as a result the Kula Community association produced thoughtful positions on community issues like the Maui Island Plan, the Bed and Breakfast and STRH ordinances and multiple upcountry water issues.
Soon after that first meeting, I was pleased to see that Gina was being considered for a position in the planning department. At that time I was working closely with the planning department to help improve the permitting process for B&Bs. In a very short period of time, Gina had established herself as one of the lead planners in the department, who the other planners looked to for guidance when processing permits. I observed that when Gina was presenting a permit application before the planning commission, she would quickly gained the confidence of the commission members, because she was always prepared to answer any question they might have.
Over the past 17 years, I have worked directly with more than 20 different planners in the current planning division. I can say without question that during the time Gina was in the department there was much better consistency between how planners processed permits. I often would tell permit seekers, there are planners who are problem makers and planners who are problem solvers. Gina was a problem solver. After she left the department, there was a notable lack of leadership amongst the planners and I saw planner decisions become much more inconsistent in their application of the code.
I think that Gina possesses a unique talent to lead through listening and making all involved felt heard. The difficult decisions about East Maui’s water is just the kind of task that would make the best use of Gina’s, well developed skill sets. And for these reasons I fully support her confirmation as Director of the East Maui Water Authority.
August 5, 2024
Re: RESOLUTION 24-129, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF GINA M. YOUNG AS DIRECTOR OF THE EAST MAUI REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY (GREAT-1(15))
Aloha e Government Relations, Ethics, And Transparency Committee,
This letter is given to provide testimony to the efficacy, enthusiastic and capable support given to initiatives which support Maui Hikina, and professional, sincere engagement, which I have had the privilege of receiving from Gina Young. As the Executive Director of the Hāna Business Council (HBC), in my role as a businessperson, community advocate, and nonprofit director, two main initiatives in which I have seen Gina assist in orchestrating broader community outreach, bridging Maui County departmental leadership and resources, have been in the areas of Workforce Development and the current Hāna Walking-Bikeway Plan.
Directly in the midst of the pandemic from the fall of 2020 through 2022, Gina shared her knowledge of working within the framework of the Maui County Budget, and assisted in shaping how local nonprofits were able to work with the Maui Office of Economic Development’s federal funding opportunities. Through the East Maui Council office, working with HBC and other nonprofit leadership, she assisted in successfully bringing internship positions to several nonprofits including the HBC, Kipahulu ʻOhana, Ke Aō Hāliʻi, Hāna Cultural Center and Hāna’s local low power radio station KOKO-LP. Prior to this she also was able to bring support to the ongoing development of an agricultural food aggregation system and agricultural hub planned for East Maui, which is strongly supported in the Hāna District and through the East Maui Council Office. In 2019, a series of engagements with vendors at our local weekly farmers market culminated with a mini competition where entrepreneurs shared their value-added food products in partnership with the UHMC Food Innovation Center. Gina worked with Councilmember Shane Sincenci in providing a dynamic overview of the history of agriculture and the relationship with the ʻāina to cultivate generational knowledge and expertise that comes from familiarity with kumu and kupuna in respective ahupuaʻa. Gina has made it her mission to respectfully articulate policy and listen – hoʻolohe – when important decisions need to be made for empowering next generation sustainability. From many conversations I have been party to, Gina is well respected for being a highly productive resource on policy and planning.
Finally, she has also been the bridge for the current study that is underway to plan sidewalk and bikeway improvement for the safety of our ʻohana, through the Hele Maui Maui Unified Workplan within the Maui Metropolitan Organization. Her knowledge of what departments to work with for effective action is invaluable!
I strongly support Gina and the decision to choose her as the director of the East Maui Water Authority.
Mahalo,
Heidi Lea,
Heidi Lea, WH6GXO
Hānaside News|Editorial Associate
Hāna Community News List Moderator
Hāna Business Council|Executive Director
Hoʻomakaukau Maui Hikina ~ East Maui Ready (EMR) Leadership Team|Community Liaison
Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United ~ Hāna Chapter|Hāna Hub Coordination
Email: Heidi@HanaMaui.com
iPhone (406) 600-4300
www.HanaMaui.com
Maui County Council Government Relations, Ethics, and Transparency Committee,
It is my great pleasure to write this letter of support for Gina Youngʻs appointment as the East Maui Water Authority Director. As you can see from Ginaʻs resume and interviews she has a deep commitment to and knowledge of community service, advocacy, policy development and implementation. I have known Gina for 22 years. We first worked together with Kula Community Association then on Kula School PTA. We worked most closely together while I served as medical director of Kula Hospital and she was on the Maui Region of HHSC Board of Directors, chairing the Kula and Lānaʻi oversight committee.
Ginaʻs work and community service experience makes her uniquely suited for this position. Her willingness to accept and skill in executing volunteer leadership positions very important in our community speak to her deep commitment to improving life for Maui residents. Through her volunteer and employed positions Gina has developed a wealth of skills, experience, and relationships that will serve the board well. Community Association work, planning department work, experience in legislative advocacy, financial background, Maui County council work focused on water use management - I canʻt imagine a candidate who could be better prepared for this position.
In our work together with Kula Community Association and with Kula Hospital, MMMC, and the Maui Region HHSC board I found Gina to be smart, enthusiastic and able to analyze complex situations and pinpoint what the most important issues were and where we should focus our efforts. Gina has a very grounded personality and approaches others with warmth and acceptance. She stays focused on issues and is able to manage othersʻ agendas and personalities to get good work done.
I am thrilled that the ʻAha Wai O Maui Hikina Community Board selected Gina Young for this important Director position to lead them in their ground breaking and precedent setting work. I really canʻt imagine a candidate who could be better positioned for this work. I ask that you honor the work and leadership of the Board and confirm her selection.
Mahalo for your time and consideration,
Nicole Apoliona, MD
August 5, 2024
Resolution 24-129
Aloha council,
My name is Sydney Smith and I’m the chair of the Ag Working Group. I’m testifying today on behalf of myself and the Ag Working Group.
I have personally known Gina Young for over twelve years. I worked with her when she was a planner in the Planning Department and when she joined council member Shane Sinenci’s staff. When Shane was the chair of the Council Agriculture Committee Gina joined our Ag Working Group meetings and she never minded staying far into the night as we worked through legislation and crafted solutions to our agriculture issues. Even after Council member Gabe Johnson received the Agriculture Committee, Gina stayed active in our group.
The Commissioners for the East Maui Water Authority were approved by this Council. I was at many of those meetings and your deliberations were careful and balanced. The Commission unanimously chose Gina Young among all the applicants. Their deliberations were also careful and balanced with complex questioning about Constitutional issues, public trust doctrine and cultural concerns. I was impressed with Gina’s grasp of the issues she will face as the Director of a brand new department. So were the Commissioners.
Please support the choice of the commissioners and confirm her appointment as Director of the East Maui Water Authority.
Chair U’U-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members
Government Relations, Ethics and Transparency Committee
Re: Appointment of Gina M. Young as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority
Aloha Chair U’u-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin, and Committee Members,
I am writing to express my support for Gina Young as the Director of the East Maui Water Authority (Resolution 24-129). Gina Young has over a decade of experience with the County of Maui as an aide to Council Sinenci and working on the Maui Planning Commission. More importantly, she has demonstrated a commitment to serving the people of Maui by participating on several community boards and engaging with the community.
I have only known Gina Young in a professional capacity since taking on my responsibilities as a member of the East Maui Regional Water Authority. In that brief time, I have been impressed with her understanding of the complicated inner workings of our local government and her ability to navigate those processes. She has an outstanding resume of experience here on Maui and she is more than qualified to fulfill all the duties of the director position.
I am confident that Gina Young will continue to serve our community as the Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority by performing her duties with integrity to ensure trust within our community.
I respectfully ask the GREAT Committee to confirm Resolution 24-129 The Appointment of Gina M. Young as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority.
Mahalo,
Francis Quitazol
I am writing in support of Gina Young’s pending appointment as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority. I have known Gina both personally and professionally for over 15 years. She reached out to me in 2017 when the Council was creating the position of Principal Archaeologist for guidance on desirable qualifications and salary. At that time, I had no plans to apply for the position, however, after COVID hit in the Spring of 2020, I applied and was awarded the position. Subsequently to my appointment, I worked extensively with Gina on the Environmental Agricultural and Cultural Protection and Agricultural and Public Trust committees. Gina is a natural leader and an excellent communicator. She understands the nuance required to be an effective community leader. Gina provides a balanced perspective and has strong community ties and an understanding of the importance of preserving traditional Hawaiian culture. It is with great pleasure that I highly recommend Gina Young be confirmed as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority. Please feel free to reach out to me at (808) 344-0566 or Janet.Six@co.maui.hi.us if you have any additional questions.
Mālama pono,
Janet Six, PhD
Principal Archaeologist for the County of Maui
Chair U’U-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members
Government Relations, Ethics and Transparency Committee
Maui County Council
Dear Chair U’u-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members,
I am writing in support of the East Maui Regional Water Authority's transparent process that led to the approval of Gina Young as Director of this new and important department. I have been impressed and inspired by the work of the Authority since its inception and I am hopeful that the GREAT committee and the County Council will honor the members' dedication and efforts.
I watched most of the interviews for the director position, which were conducted publicly in real-time, and was impressed by the Water Authority members’ questions and the job aspirants’ responses. It was refreshing to see a process that was conducted in an open and transparent manner, providing the public with the opportunity to learn about the candidates’ experiences, skills, and abilities, and further, to understand how the members of the Authority came to their decision.
While I believe that many of the candidates would bring valuable skills and experience to the position, I know from the interview process and my own experience that Gina Young will serve the position well.
Again, given the time and effort that were taken by the County Council to appoint the members of the East Maui Regional Water Authority, and the care that the Authority took in making their decision, I request that the GREAT Committee honor the members’ unanimous approval of Ms. Young, and approve Resolution 24-129.
Mahalo.
--Shay Chan Hodges
Haiku, Maui
Chair U’U-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members
Government Relations, Ethics and Transparency Committee
Maui County Council
Dear Chair U’u-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members,
I am writing in support of the East Maui Regional Water Authority's transparent process that led to the approval of Gina Young as Director of this new and important department. I have been impressed and inspired by the work of the Authority since its inception and I am hopeful that the GREAT committee and the County Council will honor the members' dedication and efforts.
I watched most of the interviews for the director position, which were conducted publicly in real-time, and was impressed by the Water Authority members’ questions and the job aspirants’ responses. It was refreshing to see a process that was conducted in an open and transparent manner, providing the public with the opportunity to learn about the candidates’ experiences, skills, and abilities, and further, to understand how the members of the Authority came to their decision.
While I believe that many of the candidates would bring valuable skills and experience to the position, I know from the interview process and my own experience that Gina Young will serve the position well.
Again, given the time and effort that were taken by the County Council to appoint the members of the East Maui Regional Water Authority, and the care that the Authority took in making their decision, I request that the GREAT Committee honor the members’ unanimous approval of Ms. Young, and approve Resolution 24-129.
Mahalo.
--Shay Chan Hodges
Haiku, Maui
My name is Jeff Dack and I reside in Wailuku. I urge you to adopt resolution 24-129. I worked for the Maui County Planning Department for 17 years, 13 of which were as the Supervisor of the Department’s Environmental Planning Section in the Current Division. I had the good fortune to be Gina Young’s supervisor when she initially joined the Department. Her initial work was to process permits in the County’s Special Management (Coastal) area. She was always a diligent, hard worker. While always maintaining the public interest utmost in her mind she was very accomplished at working cooperatively with applicants and any opposition which may have presented itself. She expressed respect, empathy and helpfulness to everyone and I believe that this early performance is a large reason that the Planning Director assigned her to be the lead planner to work with the County Council and Planning Commissions on major new bills regulating Short Term Rental Homes, and Bed and Breakfast Homes. She then led the team of planners implementing those new ordinances, with that team being named the Department Team of the Year and she named as Planner of the year.
While in the Planning Department for eight years Gina showed herself to be a great communicator and consensus builder on issues that were often controversial and otherwise difficult, with a friendly, diplomatic, but also pragmatic style. This often led repeat applicants to request that their new permit applications be assigned to her. I believe that all of the qualities I saw will lead her to be an effective leader and manager of the new Department and achieve the best results possible for the shorter and longer terms.
Thank you for your consideration of my testimony.
William Spence
P.O. Box 880267
Pukalani, HI 96788
Chair U’U-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members
Government Relations, Ethics and Transparency Committee
Maui County Council
Dear Chair U’u-Hodgins, Vice-Chair Paltin and Members,
Thank you for considering this letter of reference for Gina Young. I have known Gina for more than 14 years. Our first meeting was when she was the president of the Kula Community Association. I was impressed how she ran meetings, even when government officials attended to discuss sometimes controversial topics - such as water. Gina was a staff planner when I became Planning Director in 2011, and I was her superior for 7.5 years. She was a pleasure to work with and conveyed a great attitude. She was always prepared for meetings, did the research, understood the issues and codes, and found creative ways to meet goals. Especially impressive was the way she carried herself in front of the Hana Advisory Committee, the Maui Planning Commission and County Council. Her presentations were always clear and understandable. Her demeanor was always fair to the public, applicants, and other professionals. Though in this position we didn’t always touch on native Hawaiian issues, when we did, she exhibited a sensitivity and understanding of the matter. Now she is an aide to Councilmember Sinenci, a native Hawaiian who spearheaded the creation of the East Maui Water Authority. As a consultant, I have worked with her from time to time on different matters before the Council. This position has brought her a deeper, perceptive understanding of politics and policy, native Hawaiian issues, as well as legislative process - the means to get things done. We have remained in touch while she holds this position and have found her to be effective, always personable.
Gina would make a good director and I would highly recommend her for this position.
Sincerely,
William Spence
Hana Architecture and Interior Design
P.O. Box 125 Hana, HI 96713 Phone: 808-248-4950 E-mail: notes4robin2@hanahawaii.net
August 4, 2024
Committee Chair Nohealani U’u Hodgins
Government Relations, Ethics, and Transparency Committee
Maui County Council
Re: Resolution 24-129, Appointment of Gina M. Young as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority
Dear Chair Hodgins, and GREAT Committee Members:
I am writing to express my support for Gina M. Young as the Director for the East Maui Community Water Authority.
I first worked with Ms. Young in 2011, while navigating some Hana architectural projects through the Maui Planning Department. I had the good fortune to be paired off with Ms. Young, a Senior Planner in the department at that time. She never hesitated to make the trip to Hana to help guide my clients in the planning policies. She brought a deep understanding of the regulations and provided clear guidance through the process. Over time, she developed a reputation in Hana as a person who could get things done successfully. When I would mention to a client that Gina Young would be on the team, there was always a sense of relief and an implication that the job would get done efficiently and timely.
When Ms. Young shifted positions to work with Councilman Shane Sinenci, I felt confident Hana would benefit. I watched her work, side by side with Councilman Sinenci, researching the minute details necessary to succeed in their various endeavors, dedicating herself to the Hana community and the goals established. In Hana, Ms. Young is known as a hard worker, and provides diligent review and recommendations through difficult challenges and issues. Her background, experience, and legal skills has prepared her to be an excellent manager and director.
I believe Ms. Young has the necessary wisdom, insight, and dedication to be an engaging and diligent Director. Her experience with the Maui County and the State of Hawaii government make her an excellent candidate for the position and will provide the community of Maui with the necessary expertise and guidance required for the position.
I strongly support her appointment and would ask that you honor the unanimous decision by the East Maui Regional Community Water Authority Board to appoint her as the Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority and confirm Resolution 24-129
Mahalo,
Robin Riley Rayner, RA
Chair Uʻu-Hodgins and Members,
I offer my strong support of Gina Young for the position as Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority. I am a Board Member but providing testimony as an individual.
I ask that you honor the appointment made by the community board. We had a diligent Aloha selection and interview process making sure that the candidate we put forth best fits the needs of the authority.
Gina brings many years of experience including her understanding of both the administrative and legislative branches of government. She has worked along side many outstanding leaders in the community. I have observed Gina at community meetings and her ability to make everyone feel comfortable in participating and sharing their thoughts and ideas were remarkable.
Gina is the best qualified person and I urge you to approve this appointment.
Mahalo!
Norman “Bush” Martin, Jr.
Please see attached
Strong Support - letter attached
I am writing to express my support for Ms. Gina M. Young as the Director of the East Maui Water Authority. I know Gina both professionally and personally and feel the Water Authority Board has made an excellent choice in appointing her to this important position. Please see my attached reference letter. Mahalo for your time!!. Best wishes to the Council and Ms. Young.
Aloha GREAT Committee. I'm testifying as an individual in support of Resolution No 24-129 approving the appointment of Gina Young as Executive Director of the East Maui Regional Water Authority. I know Gina personally and have worked with her professionally and find her to be a solution-oriented consensus builder and effective negotiator. She can navigate complex water resource issues and understands the need to balance the community's diverse interests.
Mahalo
Eva Blumenstein
Makawao