Deidre Tegarden surrounded by supporters as she officially files papers for the 2016 election. Courtesy photo.

South Maui resident and Democratic candidate Deidre Tegarden, who is running for the State House of Representatives 11th District (Kīhei, Wailea, Mākena), filed her nomination papers today at the Office of the County Clerk in the Kalana O Maui building.

“I am officially a Democratic candidate for the 11th District’s seat in our state legislature,” Tegarden said in a press release announcement. “It’s time to restore South Maui citizens’ faith in what can be accomplished with accessible representation and common-sense leadership,” she said.

Supporters say Tegarden has an impressive and extensive background in community service, business and government. She served as the state’s Chief of Protocol for Governor David Ige and Governor Neil Abercrombie, served as the executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Maui and headed the Maui County’s Office of Economic Opportunity during Mayor Charmaine Tavares’ administration.

Tegarden outlined “5 E Principles” that she says reflects what she believes are the most important areas of concern for South Maui: Education, Environment, Economy, Elderly and Equality.

“As I travel throughout South Maui, it is clear to me people have real concerns about these issues and the direction our community is going,” Tegarden said. “People are concerned that their voices are not being heard and I want to change that.”

“I know we can come together as a community to find solutions to the challenges facing South Maui,” she added. “As your representative, my job will be to make sure South Maui’s voice is heard clearly, concisely and resolutely at our state legislature, so as a community, we can continue to grow and prosper.”

Further information can be found online at Tegarden’s election website.