2 Appointed to Hawaiian Homes Commission

File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Maui Now Staff

Two new appointments were announced today to the state Hawaiian Homes Commission.

Effective immediately, Wallace Ishibashi, Jr. of East Hawaiʻi Island, and Patricia Sheehan of Kauaʻi fill seats on their respective islands after being appointed by Governor Neil Abercrombie.

“Wally and Patsy both come to the Hawaiian Homes Commission with strong ties to their respective communities,” said Gov. Abercrombie in a press release issued today. “I am confident about their commitment and ability to serve native Hawaiian beneficiaries in moving the commission and department forward.”

According to information released by the governor’s office, Ishibashi is a retired full time officer of ILWU Local 142, and currently serves as UH Hilo’s cultural monitor for the Office of Mauna Kea Management.

Ishibashi also currently serves as the chair of the Hawaiʻi County Windward Planning Commission and a member of the Big Island Community Coalition, officials said.

Sheehan returns to the commission after reportedly serving for four years between 1993 and 1997.

According to the governor’s office, Sheehan has worked in fields ranging from education to real estate and successfully restarted a family business in the aftermath of Hurricane ʻIniki.

Currently, Sheehan serves on various other boards and commissions, including Hoʻopulapula Haraguchi Rice Mill, Hui o Laka, Kapiolani Health Foundation, Kauai Historic Preservation Review Commission, National Tropical Botanical Garden, and The Waioli Corporation, officials said.