HONOLULU — Derek Kawakami, joined by his family, was sworn in before the Hawai‘i House of Representatives Wednesday as District 14 state representative, a news release states. Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced Kawakami’s appointment on Monday, filling the vacancy left by
HONOLULU — Derek Kawakami, joined by his family, was sworn in before the Hawai‘i House of Representatives Wednesday as District 14 state representative, a news release states.
Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced Kawakami’s appointment on Monday, filling the vacancy left by Rep. Hermina Morita who was confirmed as the Public Utility Commission chief on March 14.
“I’m honored to be able to serve the Kaua‘i community and the people of the State of Hawai‘i,” Kawakami said in the release. “I also want to thank my wife Monica, daughter Hailee, son Christopher, and parents Charles and Arlene Kawakami for their continued encouragement and support. They motivate me to get up, roll my sleeves and get to work for a better way of life on Kaua‘i for generations to come.”
Within two hours of his swearing-in ceremony, he attended the House Finance Committee hearing, as its newest member. Kawakami will also be serving as vice chair for the Energy and Environmental Protection Committee.
“As the District Fourteen State Representative, I look forward to every opportunity hear from you and about what concerns you most,” he said in the release. “My goals and priorities have always been set upon helping those in greatest need and to protect and preserve the best of our beloved Kaua‘i and I will continue to stay true to those values.”
Kawakami can be reached by email at repkawakami@capitol.hawaii.gov; Kaua‘i phone at 274-3141, then 6-8435# after the dial tone; O‘ahu phone at (808) 586-8435; or mail at State Capitol Room # 314, 415 South Beretania St., Honolulu, HI 96813.
