Hugh Ono Advocates for PE License Requirement in Bill 64 Testimony

In a recent meeting of the Hawaii County Governmental Operations and External Affairs Committee, significant discussions centered around Bill 64 and the nomination of Macy L. Wilson to the Board of Appeals. The meeting highlighted the importance of professional engineering standards in public works and introduced a candidate with a strong local background for a key position.

Hugh Ono, a former public works director with 35 years of experience, testified in favor of Bill 64, advocating for the requirement of a Professional Engineer (PE) license for the director of public works. Ono emphasized that the lack of such a requirement could compromise public health and safety. He and a group of engineers have conducted extensive research and met multiple times to prepare their testimony, underscoring the necessity of professional judgment in engineering decisions. Ono's remarks also touched on the cultural significance of this issue, linking it to historical practices in Hawaii.

Following the public testimony, the committee moved to discuss communication 462, which involved the nomination of Macy L. Wilson to the Board of Appeals. Introduced by Bridal Alameda from the mayor's office, Wilson is a Hawaii Island native with a strong educational and professional background. She holds a degree in business administration from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and has extensive experience in safety and security roles, including her current position at Hawaiian Electric. If confirmed, Wilson will serve a term that expires on December 31, 2028.

The committee's discussions reflect ongoing efforts to ensure that public safety standards are upheld while also bringing local talent into government roles. The next steps will involve further review of Wilson's nomination and consideration of the implications of Bill 64 on public works management in Hawaii County.