I am a candidate for Hawaii County Council because I am confident I can provide better representation for this District.
A veteran of the U.S. Navy, 1970 to 1974, I attended Hilo College the first year following my discharge.
I was the first person in my family to graduate from college, receiving a BS and an MS in Agriculture and a PhD in Agricultural Economics.
My work experience over 30 years includes agricultural research and extension, rural development, economic analysis, mass transit policy, and teaching college and high school economics. Part of this time I was working in the Philippines and in Australia.
With Elizabeth, my wife of 34 years, I reside in Hawaiian Paradise Park where we established a fruit planting beginning in 2001. In 2008 we acquired a farm in Pahoa. We produce fruit for our own consumption and for sale at local markets.
As a member of the Puna community, I have contributed to projects in community development planning, agriculture development, and resource management planning. And, I have been successful as a private citizen advocating for good government.
My personal goals as a Council member are to:
- Be responsive to constituents.
- Be a creative and productive force to bring about positive change in Puna and island wide.
- Influence Council actions to be law-abiding, ethical, and in the community’s long-term interest.
- Influence Council actions to be open to scrutiny and meaningful participation by the public.
- Provide leadership in Food and Energy Sustainability.
My policy priorities for the Council will be good government for Hawaii County and sustainable livelihood in Puna.
I will get to work on these goals and priorities on Day One because I have a clear awareness of persisting and emerging issues, a sound grasp of the nature of alternatives available to successfully contend with the issues, and a well-grounded understanding of the role of the Council in implementing appropriate measures.
My years of work in public service, my contributions to planning as a member of the community, and my ability to influence policy as a private citizen demonstrate that I understand what needs doing and I know how to do it – I walk the talk.
Your vote and support are appreciated.
James Weatherford
