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Yesterday saw scores of Maui County residents cast their ballots to elect new representatives at the local and national level, along with having their say on several potential amendments to the Maui County Charter.
While it heartens me to see many taking part in our democracy, though not nearly as many as one would wish, I hope that our island's voters will remember to hold our elected representatives accountable for their campaign promises throughout the terms they will serve.
On the surface, nearly every candidate running for election this year, from every political party, agrees with what Maui Nui is struggling with: affordable housing, protecting the 'aina, and creating more opportunity for the kama'aina of these islands.
And while the ongoing struggles of the Valley Isle and our island neighbors are nothing new, our newly elected representatives will be tasked with building a bridge towards a better and more-hopeful tomorrow with new legislation and advocacy.
This is a good start, Maui Nui, but don't stop now.
Never-before-seen amounts of campaign contributions flowed into this election on the local level, creating relationships that will be well worth monitoring on an ongoing basis for those candidates who benefited from such largesse.
Continue to stay informed of Maui County Council meetings, call and write your representatives at every level to make your voices heard, and make sure our elected officials recognize the mandate they were given to serve the best interests for the people of Maui County and of Hawai'i, and not the interests of their primary financial backers.
Zack Ehrmann
Kihei