Administrator Ocasio outlines plans for integrating community knowledge in decision making

During a recent Hawaii County Policy Committee meeting, the integration of community knowledge into local governance took center stage, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance sustainability and resilience. Laura Ocasio, Administrator of the Office of Sustainability, Climate Equity, and Resilience, addressed concerns about how the county plans to incorporate place-based knowledge into decision-making processes.

Ocasio acknowledged the complexities involved in defining roles within civil service that would allow for the effective integration of traditional and community knowledge. She noted that while there have been efforts to build capacity in this area, including previous contracts with experts in traditional knowledge, the county is currently working to establish a permanent civil service position to ensure continuity and effectiveness.

The discussion emphasized the importance of community involvement, particularly in the context of recovery efforts from the Lower Puna eruption. Ocasio pointed out that the county has been actively engaging with community committees for over seven years, meeting regularly to address local needs and priorities. However, she recognized that more work is needed to solidify the role of community input in governance.

The committee's dialogue underscored a commitment to fostering collaboration between the county and community organizations, with recent projects funded by grants aimed at exploring these integration efforts. Ocasio's remarks reflect a broader goal of enhancing local governance by embedding community knowledge into the decision-making framework, despite the challenges posed by existing governance structures.

As Hawaii County continues to navigate these complexities, the focus remains on building a more inclusive approach to planning and development, ensuring that community voices are heard and valued in shaping the future of the region.