Gomes Nominated to Board of Land and Natural Resources

By Wendy Osher

The operations manager at Ulupalakua Ranch on Maui was nominated by Gov. Neil Abercrombie to serve on the state Board of Land and Natural Resources.

James Gomes is being appointed to a four-year term that is scheduled to take effect on July 1, pending state Senate confirmation.

Abercrombie made the announcement yesterday, selecting Gomes for one of seven seats on the board.

The BLNR meets twice a month and is tasked with reviewing and decision-making for submittals to the department.  This includes review of  land leases and applications for Conservation District Use Permits.

According to the governor’s office, Gomes has served on various boards including the Maui County Liquor Commission, the Maui Cattlemen’s Association, and director of the Central Maui Soil and Water Conservation District.

He also holds a liberal arts degree from UH Maui College and is a resident of Kula.

During the announcement, the governor also named two individuals to the Commission of Water Resource Management, Kamanamaikalani Beamer, Ph.D., and Milton D. Pavao.

“Each of these nominees are not only accomplished in their respective fields and occupations; they are also deeply invested to the future of these islands and our natural resources,” Abercrombie said in a press release.

“I have the utmost confidence in their ability to serve the people of Hawaii in the responsible management of our land and water resources, which are critical to the future security and vitality of our state.”