Lisa Vares appointed to fill Maui vacancy on Hawaiʻi Advisory Council on Emergency Management

The Hawaiʻi Advisory Council on Emergency Management has announced the appointment of Lisa Vares as its newest member. The appointment fills its vacancy for a representative of Maui.

Nominated by Governor Josh Green, M.D., and confirmed by the state Senate Committee on Public Safety and Intergovernmental and Military Affairs, Vares brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the council at a crucial time for Maui County.

“I am deeply honored to be entrusted with this important position at such a pivotal time in our county and state’s need,” said Vares. “The individuals and teams who prepare for and respond to large-scale emergencies can mean the difference between the success and failure of an event response. I am committed to leveraging my experience and skills to serve our community effectively.”

During her tenure working with the Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA), and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in Maui’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) following the Lahaina wildfires, Vares developed a comprehensive Resource List for the MEMA Logistics Division. This list was later implemented and expanded by Cal Fire for its Logistics Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).

While Chair of the Maui County Fire and Public Safety Commission, which culminated on March 21, 2024, officials say she exemplified essential qualities such as communication, diplomacy, teamwork and resourcefulness. These attributes have consistently been invaluable during her public service and in times when the Emergency Operations Center was activated.

Originally established in 1951, the Advisory Council serves as a resource to the governor and the director of Emergency Management on emergency management topics and concerns. The council was known as the Civil Defense Advisory Council until July 1, 2014 when HRS 127A became effective.