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Committee advances Dr. Sicks to Hawaii County Cultural Resources Commission
Summary
The committee voted 9–0 Aug. 20 to forward Dr. Sicks' nomination to the full council; the nominee emphasized data-driven archaeological review and proposed a program to train local archaeological monitors with starting wages of $50,000–$70,000.
The Committee on Government Operations and External Affairs advanced Mayor Mitchell D. Roth’s nomination of Dr. Sicks to the Hawaii County Cultural Resources Commission on Aug. 20, voting 9–0 to forward the appointment to the full council. An administration representative summarized Dr. Sicks’ academic background — a Ph.D. in anthropology from the University of Pennsylvania, a master’s from Columbia and a bachelor’s from New York University — and said the nominee would serve through Dec. 31, 2028.
Dr. Sicks, introduced herself at the committee hearing and said she views the CRC role as providing oversight and data: “I’m doctor Sicks, and I go by doctor because I’m 64,” she told members, adding that she will rely on state historic-preservation data and quick parcel assessments to guide decisions. She described prior service on Maui’s CRC, including two years as chair, and said she intends to prioritize practical strategies that reduce delays and costs while protecting significant cultural resources.
Members praised Dr. Sicks’ experience and raised local concerns about development impacts, including stormwater and changes to traditional water systems. Dr. Sicks proposed a nascent workforce-development program to train local archaeological monitors — targeting a starting certified wage between $50,000 and $70,000 — to address shortages tied to the Lahaina rebuild and islandwide needs. Members said the training and monitoring approach could help reconcile differences between developer-contracted cultural reports and commission findings.
The committee motion to close the file and forward a favorable recommendation was offered by Member Kurkowitz and seconded by Member Anaba; the clerk recorded nine votes in favor. The nomination now goes to the full Hawaii County Council for final confirmation.
