HOOSER: Island of Maui on our mind
While our world locally marches forward in a seemingly normal manner, for friends and family on Maui that same world has been turned upside down.
HOOSER: So you want to get involved?
Would you like to get more involved in the local world of policy and politics, but wondering where to start?
HOOSER: Looking ahead to 2026 elections
The year 2024 will be big in national politics, but locally it may be a bit “ho hum.” There’s no governor’s race, no mayor’s race, our four state legislative seats seem locked up, and movement on the Kaua‘i County Council will likely be minimal.
HOOSER: Koloa Day at the planning commission
It was Tuesday July 11, 2023, and the room was packed. The issue at hand was a luxury residential development proposed for Kaua‘i’s southside. The majority were in opposition, their attendance driven by deep concerns for Kaua‘i’s future. Most of those in support were, directly or indirectly, paid to be there.
HOOSER: The rough and tumble of policy and politics
Pay attention to “self care” is the message I hear over and over from other “good troublemakers” in the community. The political environment can be toxic, and the work is never-ending. For a great majority of people on the planet, and for the planet itself, these are desperate times, and the needs are great.
HOOSER: Does your legislator care about what you think?
“I’m totally disgusted with government” is a message I get frequently from a whole lot of people.
HOOSER: Celebrating Pride Month
June is Pride Month, dedicated to celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, their history, achievements and ongoing struggle for equality.
HOOSER: Campaigning 101 — just do it
With the Aug. 10, 2024, primary election only 14 months away, local candidates need to get moving.
HOOSER: A joyous May Day at Koloa Elementary School
Sometimes you just have to stop and smell the roses. Or in the case of the recent May Day celebration at Koloa Elementary School, it was the plumeria, the stephanotis, the pikake, the ti, and so many others.
HOOSER: 2024 elections cannot come soon enough
I remember sitting at the dinner table shortly after the elections in 2000 and remarking to my family “Aren’t you glad the campaign is over?”
HOOSER: Kaua‘i leads wrong way on Zoom testimony
Effective March 22, 2023, Kaua‘i County became the only county in Hawai‘i whose citizens are not allowed to testify via Zoom or other remote technology.
HOOSER: Legislature fails on major reform efforts
Two legislators were busted last year for taking bribes in return for helping a prolific campaign donor with legislation benefiting his company. Immediately, with much fanfare, House Speaker Scott Saiki created a “Commission To Improve Standards of Conduct,” and vowed to take action.
HOOSER: Time to get our priorities straight
“When they tell you there’s no money, what they’re really saying is it’s not a priority.”
HOOSER: Take the drivel to your beer buddies
“We’re going to close up our hotel and take our business somewhere else where the taxes are lower!” said no hotel on Kaua‘i ever.
HOOSER: Civic engagement is essential for a democracy
The state House Finance Committee has scheduled Senate Bill 1543 for a hearing on Wednesday, April 5 at 2 p.m.
HOOSER: Intervention needed at Coco Palms
Sitting in the Kapa‘a crawl, heading south, and not moving at all for what seems like a long, long time, I found myself thinking, “Can’t wait until the Coco Palms Hotel opens up.”
HOOSER: Kissing Kaua‘i Zoom testimony goodbye
Kaua‘i is now the only county in Hawai‘i to prohibit remote interactive conference technology (ICT) testimony by residents. No more Zooming in from Kekaha or Ha‘ena to testify. Nope, you now have to take the day off, drive into Lihu‘e, and sit in the council chambers for who knows how long, so you can present your three minutes of testimony.
HOOSER: Dealing with the homeless on Kaua‘i
An acquaintance grabbed my ear recently saying, “Gary, how can we get rid of all these homeless people?” He went on to bemoan the presence of the poor and unwashed that seem to be sleeping under every bridge and in every doorway.
HOOSER: Remembering Larry Rivera
I miss Larry Rivera. He and Gloria, and his entire family hold a special place in my heart. I was traveling and off island during his recent celebration of life, but was there in spirit and share here today my own memories and deep love for this very special man.
HOOSER: Status quo, good ole boys, will not get us there
Believe it or not, it’s time for those new candidates considering a run for office in 2024 to, well, get running. The August 2024 primary election is only 17 months or so away, and anyone serious about winning best be getting real, very soon.