2009 Annual Governor’s Luncheon announced

The Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce announces its 2009 Annual Governor’s Luncheon with Gov. Linda Lingle. The year’s luncheon keynote will be ‘Legislative Update’ and will focus on issues critical to the business community such as taxes, the state budget and other key legislative issues.

As Hawai‘i’s chief executive, Lingle is leading the direction and effort to meet the challenges of the 21st century and capitalize on new opportunities during a pivotal and exciting time of change in the history of the state and world.

Over the past 24 months, she has provided a clear vision for the fundamental transformation of Hawai‘i’s economy through the Hawai‘i Innovation Initiative and the Hawai‘i Clean Energy Initiative, both of which will make Hawai‘i a global leader in the 21st-century economy.

Gov. Lingle has complemented these long-term initiatives with her comprehensive five-point action plan to improve current economic conditions for Hawai‘i residents and businesses. The plan is made up of tested strategies that will create jobs and stimulate the economy, including the ongoing modernization of Hawai‘i’s infrastructure.

Over the past six years, Gov. Lingle has initiated major upgrades to the state’s airports, harbors, public schools, highways, state parks, hospitals and other public facilities. As part of her proactive five-point plan, more than $1 billion in already approved and budgeted public construction projects were accelerated to start during 2009 or 2010.

This focus on improving economic conditions is consistent with one of Governor Lingle’s first actions upon assuming office: Implementing a policy of strict fiscal accountability. This approach allowed her Administration to replace a deficit in 2002 with record surpluses, including a $331.2 million surplus for FY08. Fiscal responsibility will continue to be a priority as the Administration works to maintain a balanced budget while preserving critical public services.

The protection of Hawai‘i’s natural resources has also been a major focus for Gov. Lingle as she continues her efforts to preserve the unique aspects of life in the islands. Through public-private partnerships, the state has played a vital role in the preservation of Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, the Wao Kele O Puna rainforest on the Big Island, and Pupukea-Paumalu and Waimea Valley on O‘ahu. Governor Lingle has also spearheaded efforts to protect the undeveloped land on the Turtle Bay property on O‘ahu’s North Shore.

Recognizing the importance of global partnerships in an increasingly technological and interconnected world, Governor Lingle has been proactive in forging links with Hawaii’s Asia-Pacific neighbors. A notable accomplishment in this area includes the 2007 creation of a State Partnership Program between the Hawai‘i National Guard and Indonesia, which improves regional security and disaster preparedness.

Gov. Lingle took office on Dec. 2, 2002, committed to bringing about a “New Beginning” for the people of Hawai‘i by making state government more open, accountable and responsive.

Gov. Lingle is the sixth elected governor of Hawai‘i. She is the first mayor, first woman and first person of Jewish ancestry to be governor. She is also the first Republican to lead the Aloha State in more than 40 years.

She first served the people of Hawai‘i in 1980 as a member of the Maui County Council, and went on to complete five two-year terms, three representing the island of Moloka‘i. In 1990, she was elected Mayor of Maui County and served two full four-year terms.

The luncheon will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., July 9 at the Kaua‘i Marriott Resort and Beach Club.

To reserve a space, register on-line at www.kauaichamber.org or call 245-7363.

• Randall Francisco is president of the Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce and can be reached at randall@kauaichamber.org.