Hawaii Gov names new HTA board members
Hawaii Governor Josh Green has appointed a dozen new members for the Hawaii Tourism Authority Advisory Board.
Green made the new appointments after he ordered all the previous board to resign.
This came after several governance issues leveled against the HTA.
He announced the new members of the HTA board as:
Kimberly Agas (reappointed member) – general manager, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa.
Leah Belmonte – director of Human Resources, Mahi Pono LLC; former HR leader with Ritz-Carlton Kapalua and Diamond Resorts.
Mericia Elmore – executive director, SAG-AFTRA Hawaii local.
Terry Fischer – president and owner, Polynesian Adventure Tours.
Joel Guy (appointed by House Speaker) – executive director, The Hanalei Initiative
Troy Lazaro – Kumu hula and cultural steward.
James McCully (reappointed member) – orchid breeder at Mauna Kea Orchids and former HTA Board member.
Danny Ojiri (appointed by Senate President) – vice president, Outrigger Hospitality Group
Lisa Paulson (reappointed member) – chief executive officer, Maui Food Bank; former Maui Hotel & Lodging Association leader
Lanai Tabura – Emmy-winning TV host, radio personality, actor and comedian
Christian West (reappointed member) – president, ILWU Local 142
Linda Wong – president and chief operating officer, World of Aloha; former chief of staff to Honolulu’s mayor
According to Speaker Nadine Nakamura, the appointments were made to ensure the board has a wide range of different perspectives, along with expertise in environmental issues and economic development.
“Because Hawaii is one of the world’s most desirable visitor destinations, tourism is a main economic driver for our islands. We are starting fresh and ensuring our tourism decisions reflect our values, our communities and a sustainable future,” Gov. Green said.
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