The Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM) is looking to promptly fill three vacancies that have opened up, following V.R. Hinano Rodrigues' decision to withdraw his nomination. Rodrigues was poised to serve on the CWRM, having been appointed by Governor Josh Green, but he has since notified the governor's office that he will be stepping back to focus on "healing with this community and our people," as reported by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR).
Rodrigues, who had been serving on an interim basis pending Senate confirmation, was recognized for his over two decades of service in cultural preservation and community engagement. His term was to originally not gain conclusion until June 30, 2028. Governor Green expressed gratitude towards Rodrigues, stating, "I want to thank Hinano for stepping up to serve his community." CWRM Deputy Director Ciara W.K. Kahahane also acknowledged the significance of Rodrigues' contributions and voiced expectation for qualified individuals to fill the open seats, in a statement obtained by the DLNR.
The composition of CWRM includes seven members, five of whom are appointed by the Governor and require Senate confirmation for their roles. The Loea seat formerly occupied by Rodrigues mandates a commissioner with robust experience in traditional Hawaiian water resource management techniques. The Commission plays a pivotal role in overseeing the state's water resources, making the vacancies a matter of urgency for their effective stewardship.
The vacancies include Rodrigues' former seat and two additional ones for terms about to expire. The DLNR is actively encouraging candidates to apply by the March 31 deadline. Anyone interested in applying for the Loea seat or the two other vacancies must submit their applications by the deadline. A nominating committee will review the applications and recommend candidates to the Governor. The vacancies, along with application details and position requirements, have been posted on the CWRM website.
