Kauanoe Batangan

Kauanoe Batangan is expected to be sworn in on Maui County Council during a public ceremony at 8 a.m. Monday before a special council meeting at 9 a.m., according to Chair Alice L. Lee.

Batangan was appointed by Mayor Richard Bissen to the vacant Kahului residency area seat for the remainder of the 2025-27 term following the Oct. 26 passing of council member Tasha Kama.

On Monday, Maui County Council is also scheduled to discuss a resolution to amend Resolution 25-5, FD1, on committee membership, Lee said.

“As we begin a new year, we will welcome our newest council member,” said Lee, who holds the seat for the Wailuku-Waiheʻe-Waikapū residency area. “We look forward to benefiting from Kauanoe’s expertise and dedication to public service as we continue to hold Tasha and her family close in our hearts.”

Batangan is executive director of the Maui Metropolitan Planning Organization, helping to guide transportation plans and programs. His previous work with the county includes serving as Deputy Director of Transportation and as a council member’s executive assistant.