The Maui County Council on May 2 unanimously moved to nominate and approve Pelekia (Pele) Kona to the county Board of Water Supply to fill a term expiring March 31, 2027.

Council members cited Kona’s community ties, experience with kalo farming and traditional water stewardship, and wide public support during a lengthy public-testimony period that included residents, cultural practitioners and nonprofit leaders from across the islands.

The nomination was announced on the council floor under county charter and code authorities that allow the council to make appointments when the independent nomination board and the mayor have not completed required steps. Councilmember Tamara Paulton read the resolution and noted the appointment was time-sensitive. Dozens of people testified in favor of Kona in person and online, stressing his ancestral knowledge of water, experience with Lahaina Strong and community stewardship efforts.

Supporters described Kona as a generational voice for Kanaka Maoli stewardship and urged the council to confirm him as West Maui and island-wide water policy moves forward. Testimony came from a mix of community leaders and residents, including Paul Carter, Zeke Kalua, Kyo Mailani Hana P. Hirata, Deandre Makakoa, Katie Austin, Julene Lee, Robin Smith and Caroline Kamikona, among others. Several speakers referenced recent proceedings before the Commission on Water Resource Management and called for local leadership in decisions about groundwater and surface-water allocation.

Council discussion emphasized both Kona’s local ties and the need for board members who can help guide water policy during ongoing work around West Maui’s water management. Members noted Kona’s presence in the gallery and his prior community service, and several members spoke in personal support before the roll call.

The council recorded the appointment as passed with seven ayes and two members excused.

What’s next: Kona will serve on the Board of Water Supply through March 31, 2027. The council transmitted certified copies of the appointment to the mayor, the independent nomination board, the corporation counsel and the director of water supply as the resolution directed.