(BIVN) – Council Chair Dr. Holeka Goro Inaba will continue to serve as the chair of the local legislative body going into the 2026–2028 Council term, becoming the first Council Chair in 24 years to be selected to serve consecutive terms in the leadership position.
Inaba’s chairmanship was announced on Monday, along with other leadership and standing committee assignments for the newly elected councilmembers.
Dennis “Fresh” Onishi will serve as Council Vice Chair.
Inaba represents District 8 (Kona) in Hawaiʻi County, while Onishi represents District 3 (Hilo).
“I am grateful for the continued trust and confidence of my colleagues and look forward to building on the progress we have made together,” said Council Chair Inaba in a news release. “Each Council Member brings unique experiences, perspectives, and priorities to the table. My goal is to ensure that every member has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully as we work together to address the challenges facing our island and plan for its future.”
“I look forward to working alongside Chair Inaba and our fellow Council Members to serve the people of Hawaiʻi Island,” said Council Vice Chair Onishi. “We may represent different districts, but we share a common responsibility to our communities. By working together, listening to our residents, and keeping the focus on solutions, we can accomplish a lot for our island.”
The Council also announced the following standing committee leadership assignments for the 2026–2028 term:
Finance Committee
- Chair: James Hustace
- Vice Chair: Dennis “Fresh” Onishi
Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs
- Chair: Manu Powers
- Vice Chair: Ikaika Rodenhurst
Committee on Communications, Reports, and Council Oversight
- Chair: Jennifer Kagiwada
- Vice Chair: Loyd Enriquez
Committee on Legislative Approvals and Acquisitions
- Chair: Heather Kimball
- Vice Chair: Manu Powers
Committee on Planning and Economic Development
- Chair: Ikaika Rodenhurst
- Vice Chair: Heather Kimball
Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure
- Chair: Zed Kaʻapana-Aki
- Vice Chair: Jennifer Kagiwada
Committee on Public Safety, Health, and Community
- Chair: Loyd Enriquez
- Vice Chair: Zed Kaʻapana-Aki
The Council also announced its representatives to the Hawaiʻi State Association of Counties (HSAC):
- Hawaiʻi County Representative: Jennifer Kagiwada
- Alternate Representative: Manu Powers
“As the Council prepares for the 2026–2028 term, its leadership remains focused on fostering collaboration, promoting transparency, and addressing the diverse needs of Hawaiʻi Island’s communities,” the Council news release stated. “The Council looks forward to working collectively with county departments, community stakeholders, and residents to advance initiatives that support the well-being and future of Hawaiʻi Island.”
