Randy K. Nako

The council meeting addressed several cultural descendency recognition applications for native Hawaiian skeletal remains. Key discussion topics included the cultural descendency recognition application of Jessica for individuals interred at a specific site, as well as the application of another individual regarding remains located in the North Kohala district. The council also deliberated on the process for issuing a letter of support for the repatriation of remains from a National Historic Park. Due to a lack of quorum, the council was unable to make formal determinations on these agenda items and deferred them to future meetings.

The 2025 Hawai'i State Wildlife Action Plan outlines comprehensive strategies for the long-term conservation of over 6,000 native terrestrial and aquatic species, many of which are endemic to the state. The plan focuses on seven priority objectives: maintaining and restoring native species and habitats, combating invasive species, developing robust information management programs, strengthening partnerships, expanding public outreach and education, supporting policy changes, and enhancing funding opportunities for conservation. It aims to build on past efforts and guide conservation for the next ten years, ensuring a legacy of healthy biodiversity for future generations.

This multi-agency strategic response plan aims to minimize the harm caused by Rapid 'Ōhi'a Death by outlining priorities for management actions, research and development, and community engagement. The plan seeks to protect and enhance watershed, ecological, and cultural functions, and prevent the conversion of ROD-impacted areas into degraded, weed-dominated forests, ultimately ensuring the perpetuation of 'ōhi'a and native forests for the future.

The agenda includes reports from the Executive Director regarding staffing, recruitment, management plan updates, communications, and access road status. The board will review the status of the Long-Term Transition Working Group, receive an operational update from the Center for Maunakea Stewardship concerning underground storage tank removal, and discuss joint management committee updates on operational services, environmental impact statements, and administrative rulemaking. A financial report will also be presented.

The commission discussed and approved the proposed calendar year 2026 access dates and activities for the Protect Kaho'olawe 'Ohana, including the construction of a mua at Honokanai'a. The commission declared the Hakioawa Clivus Replacement Project exempt from the preparation of an environmental assessment and established additional procedures for UXO clearance and archaeological monitoring. A proclamation recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Protect Kaho'olawe 'Ohana was discussed, and the commission moved to defer its approval for further review. The meeting also included status updates on budget and finance, personnel, capital improvement projects, and various ongoing restoration and grant-funded initiatives.