Honolulu's water management landscape is set for a leadership change, with Governor Josh Green appointing Ciara Kahahane as the new First Deputy of the state Commission on Water Resource Management, pending approval by the Commission itself. A seasoned attorney from the Department of the Attorney General's Complex Litigation Division, Kahahane carries the weight of her legal expertise and cultural heritage into a role that will tackle one of Hawai‘i's most pressing environmental challenges. Governor Green expressed his confidence in Kahahane's abilities, saying, "Ciara is a dedicated public servant and I’m confident she will help lead the commission through the many complex issues surrounding management of water resources throughout Hawai‘i," in a statement obtained by the Office of the Governor.
Last year's devastating Maui wildfires have demonstrated the critical nature of water resource management in state governance. The chair of DLNR and CWRM, Dawn Chang, reinforced the significance of Kahahane's new position, stating, "Ciara brings unique expertise as the CWRM Deputy. She is proficient in ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i, has lineal and cultural connections to West Maui, and understands the law, including our public trust duties." This endorsement was featured in the Office of the Governor's news release. Her knowledge and background are tipped to be especially valuable for the Commission as it navigates the sensitive intersection of water rights and native Hawaiian concerns.
Kahahane's tenure in the AG's office saw her handling key legal disputes of statewide import. Currently, she oversees the analysis of the Lahaina wildfires from August 2023, coordinating with experts to review the incident. With a law career that includes support roles with the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation and clerkship for the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Hawai‘i, her qualifications for the Commission on Water Resource Management position appear robust. Attorney General Anne Lopez lauded her selection, telling the Office of the Governor, "Ciara's intelligence, understanding of the tensions surrounding water rights and usage, and ability to lead will serve her and the people of Hawaiʻi well."
The appointment is not only a step up for Kahahane but also signals the state government's ongoing commitment to addressing Hawaii's environmental issues with a mindful respect for its unique cultural and legal landscape. Kahahane, who won't begin her new duties until October 10, shared her enthusiasm, "I’m grateful and excited to be selected as the CWRM First Deputy. I look forward to learning from the commission’s experienced and dedicated staff as we navigate the complex and sometimes challenging issues related to water in Hawaiʻi," as per the Office of the Governor. Until her start, Dean Uyeno will maintain the role of Interim First Deputy.
