Former Maui Corp Counsel Named First Deputy at DLNR

Jesse Souki.

By Wendy Osher

The Department of Land and Natural Resources announced the appointment of Jesse Souki as first deputy of the department.

Souki, who previously served as a deputy corporation counsel for the County of Maui, is currently employed as the director of the state’s Office of Planning.

In that capacity, he led the passage of the state’s climate change adaptation and sustainability laws in 2011 and 2012, according to the announcement.

DLNR Chairperson William Aila Jr. called Souki “a natural fit” for the position saying he already works closely with the department on natural resource management issues relating to climate change and ocean resources.

He replaces Esther Kiaʻaina, who transitions to the US Department of the Interior.

Souki’s appointment takes effect on Monday, March 10, 2014.