Maui’s Hiranaga Appointed to State Land Use Commission

Kent Hiranaga.

By Wendy Osher

Maui’s Kent Hiranaga was among three individuals that were nominated to serve on the state Land Use Commission, according to an announcement made by Governor Neil Abercrombie this afternoon.

Others identified as nominees include Brandon Ahakuelo of Honolulu and Arnold Wong of ʻAiea, who were both appointed to at-large seats.

In making the announcement, Governor Abercrombie said, “The Land Use Commission can resume business thanks to Brandon, Kent and Arnold’s commitment to public service.  Each brings a unique background of experience that will inform land use decisions in the interest of the people of Hawaii.”

Hiranaga is currently a resident of Pāʻia, Maui, and is an active member of the community, having served on various boards and commissions in the past 15 years.

According to the Governor, Hiranaga’s list of service includes time spent on the Maui Planning Commission from 2007 to 2013, the Maui Board of Water Supply from 2001 to 2006, and the Maui Board of Variances and Appeals from 1996 to 2001.

In the private sector, Hiranaga has served as president of Maui Kai Realty since 2001, and was previously employed by A&B Properties, Valley Isle Drapery, Hewlett-Packard Company, and General Electric, the announcement said.

Hiranaga reportedly attended the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, and graduated from Indiana University, Bloomington.

Hiranaga was appointed to the seat that represents Maui County.  All of today’s nominations are interim appointments and are effective immediately, but are subject to state Senate confirmation.

According to the governor, the new appointments bring to seven the number of members on the nine-seat commission, and restores the Land Use Commission’s ability to meet quorum following five resignations in July.