Please LIKE, COMMENT, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE… It Really Helps Our Channel.
Summary & Transcript Below…
JASON SCHWARTZ interviews GIL KEITH-AGARAN, appointee in seat for State House District 9, when Bob Nakasone passed away. Gil was appointed by Governor Linda Lingle. 2010
[00:05 → 01:05] Introduction and Call for Change
The opening segment is a poetic call to action, emphasizing the urgent need for change and hope within every individual. It speaks to unlocking potential and standing together to build a better future. The message sets an inspirational tone, encouraging listeners to engage actively in positive transformation for themselves and the community.
- [01:05 → 02:36] Interview Introduction and Political Context
Jason Schwartz introduces Gil Keith-Agaran, who is running for the Hawaii State House in District 9, which covers parts of Maui including Paia, Kahului, and Wailuku. Gil was appointed to this seat in 2008 after the death of Bob Nakasone. The interview touches on the political background of the appointment process, highlighting that the governor was required to appoint someone from the same political party to maintain representation balance. This contextualizes Gil’s current candidacy and provides insight into the local political dynamics. - [02:36 → 04:21] Gil Keith-Agaran’s Background and Qualifications
Gil offers a condensed resume, revealing deep local roots in Central Maui and a solid educational background including law school on the mainland. He has extensive experience in government, having worked in various state departments such as Land and Natural Resources, Commerce and Consumer Affairs, and Labor. Gil also served as Public Works Director for Maui County. His legal expertise complements his public service background, giving him a well-rounded understanding of legislative and administrative processes. - [04:21 → 06:51] Legal Knowledge and Legislative Process
Gil discusses the role of legal knowledge in legislative work. While acknowledging that being an attorney is not a prerequisite for lawmakers, he notes that understanding legal language can help in interpreting bills and statutes. However, he emphasizes that practical judgment and common sense are more important than getting lost in legal minutiae. He references the Civil Union bill as an example, explaining how legal wording and amendments affected support for the measure, and clarifies that civil unions are distinct from marriage under state law. - [06:51 → 09:11] Political Transparency and Fresh Perspectives
Gil is praised for his straightforwardness and openness in discussing political issues. He admits this is his first election campaign, and reflects on public skepticism toward career politicians. Gil expresses a desire to make a meaningful impact rather than simply hold office for the sake of tenure. He also shares insights about the realities of legislative office, including the practical challenges of leaving office if not re-elected, highlighting the transient nature of political roles. - [09:11 → 10:32] Legislative Experience and Constituent Interaction
Having served two legislative sessions, Gil feels comfortable with the work, especially participating in hearings and engaging with constituents. However, he notes the difficulty for Maui residents to provide direct input since legislative sessions are held on Oahu. He suggests that modern technology such as Skype could be better utilized to facilitate constituent participation from neighbor islands, improving democratic engagement. - [10:32 → 14:25] Policy Focus: Healthcare and Local Infrastructure
Healthcare emerges as Gil’s primary passion, influenced by personal experiences and community involvement. He has worked on legislation to empower the regional board overseeing Maui’s only hospital, Maui Memorial, aiming to give local stakeholders more control over healthcare decisions. Gil also discusses the evolving economic landscape of Maui, transitioning from an agricultural base to expanding healthcare and education sectors, including growth at UH Maui College and the Community Clinic of Maui. He is optimistic about how federal healthcare reform may benefit Maui’s rural healthcare system through increased support for qualified health clinics. - [14:25 → 17:11] Healthcare Reform and Bipartisan Challenges
Gil acknowledges the complexity of the Affordable Care Act and admits that no one is an expert on all its details. He highlights ongoing discussions about how Hawaii’s unique employer-mandated healthcare system fits within federal reforms. On the political front, Gil notes that Republicans often vote “no” without offering alternatives, which can hinder progress. He gives an example involving “Furlough Fridays” in schools, where opposition was based on preference for different solutions rather than outright refusal to solve the problem. - [17:11 → 19:58] Legislative Dynamics and Member Experience
Gil reflects on the makeup of the Hawaii legislature, noting a balance between fresh faces and experienced lawmakers. Maui’s delegation is relatively new, which fosters openness and flexibility in discussions. He believes that while experience matters, lawmakers remain willing to listen to constituents and reconsider past decisions in light of new contexts. He stresses that legislators who ignore their constituents typically face electoral consequences. - [19:58 → 25:21] Environmental Priorities and Budget Realities
Gil identifies environmental issues as a key concern, particularly given his prior work with the Department of Natural Resources. He highlights the underfunding of environmental agencies, noting that the Department of Agriculture faced a proposed 44% budget cut despite agriculture’s ongoing importance. He explains that budget proposals come from the governor’s administration, and while the legislature can restore funding, the governor decides whether to allocate the funds. This underscores the tension between legislative intent and executive action in state government. - [25:21 → 27:44] Checks and Balances in Budget Execution
The discussion continues on the governor’s authority to withhold funds even after legislative approval. Gil explains that the governor may delay releasing funds based on revenue projections and economic uncertainty. This practice, while part of checks and balances, can frustrate legislators and constituents who see authorized programs unfunded. He cites examples such as the Healthy Start program, where legislature-approved funds were not promptly released by the administration. - [27:44 → 29:53] Community Connection and Local Representation
Gil emphasizes the importance of having deep roots in the community one represents. He believes understanding local history, challenges, and relationships is crucial for effective representation. As someone who grew up in the district, he feels a personal connection to constituents, including parents and grandchildren of his former classmates. He sees positive developments in Kahului and Pumale that offer opportunities for economic and social growth. - [29:53 → 33:14] Healthcare Services and Hospital Viability
Gil discusses the healthcare infrastructure on Maui, cautioning against building new hospitals that might undermine Maui Memorial’s viability. He supports enhancing specialized services, like cardiac care, at Maui Memorial to meet local needs and reduce the necessity of traveling to Oahu for treatment. He recognizes challenges in funding basic healthcare services due to reimbursement structures and advocates for improved financial support for essential medical care. - [33:14 → 35:04] Education and Workforce Development
Gil is optimistic about partnerships between educational institutions and healthcare providers to identify workforce needs and train local professionals. He values the role of UH Maui College as an affordable educational option that offers pathways to four-year degrees and specialized training. He acknowledges the challenges of higher education costs and the importance of maintaining accessible opportunities for Maui residents. - [35:04 → 38:02] Economic Challenges and Social Services
Addressing economic hardship, Gil recognizes the struggles of residents losing homes and jobs amid a slow recovery. He stresses the importance of legislators caring about these issues without making unrealistic promises. He mentions exploring innovative uses of unemployment insurance funds to support employment and health benefits, though fiscal constraints have limited such initiatives so far. - [38:02 → 41:07] Affordable Housing and Community Mindset
Gil reflects on the complexities of alternative housing solutions, including temporary or group housing. He notes the social and policy challenges of ensuring affordable housing options do not become permanent lower standards for disadvantaged groups. He advocates for shifting mindsets around housing needs and aspirations, recalling his own experience growing up in a modest plantation house. He supports initiatives like housing trusts that preserve affordability through resale covenants. - [41:07 → 42:51] Community Spirit and Public Service
Gil discusses the erosion of community cohesion in Maui, where diverse interests sometimes overshadow a shared sense of responsibility. He believes public service is vital to rebuilding community bonds and highlights the role of volunteerism in events like the Maui County Fair, which fosters local engagement and support for charitable projects. This sense of connection motivates his own involvement in public office. - [42:51 → 45:49] Candidate Character and Closing Remarks
Jason Schwartz praises Gil’s responsiveness, thoughtfulness, and community knowledge, highlighting him as an exciting candidate. Gil expresses appreciation for the opportunity to communicate directly with voters and encourages constituents to provide feedback during legislative sessions. He also credits his education and upbringing in Maui for shaping his values and abilities. The interview concludes with a reaffirmation of civic responsibility and encouragement to vote. - [45:49 → 46:37] Closing Inspirational Message
The program closes by returning to the initial theme of hope and collective action, urging all listeners to unlock hope, embrace change, and work together to create a better life. This reinforces the overall message of empowerment and community involvement throughout the interview.
Summary Overview:
This transcript features an extensive interview with Gil Keith-Agaran, a first-time candidate for the Hawaii State House representing District 9 in Maui. The conversation covers his personal background, legal and governmental experience, and political perspectives. Gil emphasizes practical governance, community connection, and transparency. Healthcare, environmental protection, education, and economic recovery are central themes, reflecting both local concerns and broader policy challenges. The dialogue also sheds light on legislative processes, party dynamics, and the interplay between the legislature and the governor’s office in budget matters. Gil’s commitment to public service is grounded in deep community ties and a desire to make a tangible difference rather than pursue a political career for its own sake. The interview ends with a hopeful call for collective action and civic participation.
Transcript
00:05
The time has come to make a change The time has come to unlock a hope that lives In each and every one of us And we must do our part
00:23
We hold the visions God dreams of Our hands can heal the ones we love Let’s gather round and let us make a stand
00:38
for you and me unlock the hope and there’s a better life unlock the hope there’ll be no turning back but nothing changes unless we unlock the hope good morning and aloha
01:05
I’m Jason Schwartz and I’m here up close and personal here in 2010 with Gil Keith-Agaran. Gil, you are running Gil for the what seat in what district? It’s District 9 which runs from Paia, Spreckelsville, includes Puunene, all of Kahului and just a little bit of Wailuku.
01:27
And it’s a state senate seat or a state house seat? It’s a house seat. Okay. It’s Bob Nakasone’s old seat. I was appointed to the seat when he died in 2008.
01:40
I remember that. I actually asked, it shows you how little I knew. I asked John Henry, the Republican guy, about Gil Keith-Agaran. He said, oh, he was appointed because Linda Lingle, you know, when I saw your name up in the county, I thought, oh, I didn’t know if you were in the Lingle administration. I wasn’t really sure. I just remember seeing your face as involved there in the county. But they needed to replace Bob Nakasone with someone of the same party.
02:10
That’s right. After a couple of appointments by the governor a few years back, there was a move in the legislature to make sure that she would pick someone who actually was a member of the same party. I see. She picked some people that were nominally Democrats, people that joined the Democratic Party probably around the time that they were being considered to be picked. I see. That’s interesting.
02:36
But now you’ve had a long and extensive background. If you’d be, sort of give us a condensed resume of some of the things you’ve done, just to give our audience an idea of your background. Is that okay? Sure.
02:49
I grew up in Central Maui, mainly in Paia. I went to Maui High School, went off to school on the mainland. Came back and worked on Oahu for a number of years before moving home. In about 1995, I joined the Cayetano administration after he was elected governor. I thought I was going to stay for four years and come home. I ended up staying for eight. And when I finally did come home,
03:17
I was hired by Alan Arakawa to serve as Public Works Director. I see. So I stayed for two years working at Public Works. And so I basically have a little bit of background in state government, ten years, at the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Commerce and Consumer Affairs, and at the Department of Labor.
03:39
And I’ve also had some fairly good experience in two years working on the infrastructure issues here in Maui. Oh, good. Well, let me just also throw in, because I didn’t hear you mention, you’re an attorney. Oh, yeah. That’s true. I forgot that. See, that was a bonus. So when you went to the mainland, not only did you go to school, you went to school and became an attorney. Were you ever practicing attorney? I practiced before going into the administration.
04:08
And after leaving our college administration, I’ve been practicing Wailuku with Tony Takatani. Right. So I got you. Well, that’s great. So you come, I want to say, armed when you see a bill.
04:21
You know how to read it, and you know the legalese and… No, a lot of times, though, just… I don’t think you need to be a lawyer to be in the legislature. No, but I think… I think you just need some common sense, and you have to be practical. But you know how to read those little words. Someone was talking to me the other day about that 442 bill. 444? Oh, the Civil Union bill. The Civil Union bill.
04:44
And they were Democrat, and they said the reason that they didn’t vote for it was there were some things on the back, and I guess they add different clauses and different things to try to kind of bundle them in, like we hear in federal, that didn’t settle with them, and they voted no even though they were pro-civil unions. So I’m wondering, as you’re reading stuff, if knowing…
05:08
Understanding things in legalese gives you a real knowledge of, when you see words on a paper, the significance of that little word. No, I don’t think you always focus on those little things. Otherwise, you get obsessed with it. I think the real focus should be on the idea that you’re trying to accomplish and trying to figure out if this is a good idea. And you’ve got a lot of staff in the legislature, and sometimes they get it wrong.
05:36
And so it is helpful to be able to read it, to read a statute. But really, I think the real decision that you need to make is, are you willing to vote for this idea? And I think with the civil unions bill, I know that there are some people that had qualms by the fact that initially,
05:56
It was limited just to same gender couples. What the Senate did was they expanded it to include heterosexual couples. And I think that actually created more support.
06:12
In fact, one of the interesting things for me was to hear that AARP and a lot of retirees were actually very interesting because it gave them an avenue where if they
06:30
had their families and their widows or widowers and now they have a new companion, but they don’t want to disrupt the legacy they’ve already created, meaning for their children or grandchildren. Was it pretty clear in the bill, because I didn’t look at it, was it pretty clear that it wasn’t marriage?
06:51
Because I’ve heard sometimes Christian right people talking about it as… If you’re against civil unions, you’re going to come up with any kind of reason to oppose it. And the civil unions bill was clearly not marriage. It was clearly not an issue against conventional marriage. Our state law on marriage remains limited to one man, one woman. I got you. The bill didn’t change that.
07:20
Now, what I like about what just happened here with you and me, very clear and outspoken, you know, some candidates I sit with hem and haw about certain issues. I really appreciate your straight… That might be because I’ve never run for office before, so this is the first time. Maybe after I’ve been in there for a while, if I happen to be lucky enough to get elected, maybe it’ll change. Well, that’s an interesting point. Someone once said to me,
07:48
I think I’ll vote for you the first time, but after you’re in the first time, I’m not going to vote for you because I don’t want you to think this seat is one that you’re going to be in as a career politician. Many people have that same feeling now you hear it from the Tea Party people and all kinds. They don’t want someone who’s entrenched there. Some of the incumbents for a long time are facing this new reality that they’re in some kind of a…
08:13
rotation where they, like you say, you’re fresh and thinking and really on your toes. It’s a pleasure to see. Well, I’m never that interested in staying somewhere if I’m not making a difference and accomplishing something. And I think Neil Abercrombie talks about it in a way that’s a great illustration. You walk in there after you’re elected, you go to your office, you take a look at the door and your name’s on the door.
08:43
And then you realize that your name just slides off, that it’s easy to remove. And recently, we got a memo from the speaker, which set out the timetable for what happens if you’re not successful in November. They’re being good this year. They’re giving us 10 days to move everything out. Wow. I got you. So you’ve been there now how long, about?
09:11
I was appointed in January of 2009, so I’ve been there for two legislative sessions. And what is your feeling of the experience? Comfortable? I think the work, I’m comfortable with the work that you do. I like the hearings, I like the interaction with people who are testifying on a particular bill. I especially like hearing from constituents. Now,
09:40
It’s very hard to hear from people on this island, mainly because the entire session takes place in O’ahu, unless they move a couple of hearings in the neighbor islands if it’s of particular interest. We get some emails, we get some phone calls, but really we don’t have that kind of feedback that a lot of the O’ahu legislators do. I see. Could a little internet and Skype and all the rest of that?
10:09
new technology be somehow employed to help that? You know, I think that’s something that they really need to explore. I mean, obviously Maui’s been doing it for a while with the kind of interactions that the University of Hawaii Maui College does. Like that SkyLink, I think they used to call it. Right? That’s what you meant.
10:32
So your area that you’re doing, you mentioned you were working here in public works and things. Are there any areas of passion as you’re in the Statehouse or areas that you feel comfortable to want to initiate and move forward in any way?
10:49
Yeah, I thought that if I was going to be appointed, that the one thing I was really concerned about was health care. I’ve got a mother who was in her 80s, and I worked as a member of the board of the Community Clinic of Maui. So it’s something that I’m very interested in, and I was particularly interested in seeing what was going to happen with Mount Memorial Hospital. It’s the only hospital on the island. And they had some plans, but they certainly
11:19
had, I think the management, the local management especially, had some different ideas from the state in terms of where they wanted to go. So I think that was one issue that we worked pretty hard at to get a bill that would give more authority to the regional board. And so now a law was passed in 09 that allows our regional board to run the hospital.
11:49
I mean, it came with some strings attached in the sense that they basically are warning that if you run into trouble, it’ll be tougher to come back to the state and ask for resources. But I think this gives now the management of Old Memorial a lot more leeway. And it also gives the doctors and the community members of their board a lot more influence over the direction of health care.
12:16
The other thing that I’m interested in, and obviously I think there are a lot of issues that deal with health care that are important for not just the quality of life that we have in Maui, but also potential for additional jobs. I mean, I grew up in central Maui when we basically were…
12:40
the new housing for the plantation workers. We were still very much an agricultural economy. Tourism was beginning to take off in Wailea and Lahaina. But if you lived in a community, most everyone I grew up with worked for either Maui Land of Pineapple or Alexander Baldwin or some business that actually depended on them.
13:07
Gotcha. So major agricultural base. Sure. I see. But now we’ve got a change and we’ve got some changes. We’ve got, I think, HC&S has about a thousand workers now. And that includes all of their associated companies. That means way down, right? Sure. Way down from where they were in numbers. But at the same time, we’ve got Modern Memorial expanding.
13:35
We’ve got a new science building going up at UH Maui College. The Community Clinic of Maui has opened up a much larger clinic, and they’re looking at additional services to provide. And I think that President Obama’s health care reform bill is going to provide a little bit more support for community clients.
13:57
Have you been able to get through that? I mean, I don’t know, when you said that you had aides that were there helping you, I thought, well, maybe that means that all these people in federal Congress, someone read it before they said yes, right? I was wondering, because it was such a massive document. No, it is a large document, and I think no one is a complete expert on it. But I think that we’re beginning to see some of the things that are going to make a difference here.
14:25
I think there’s an emphasis on federally qualified health clinics and I think that’s key for us because Maui still pretty much is a rural area and
14:40
We’re limited in the number of doctors that we have and the doctors who want to come here. So those kinds of little changes in health care reform will probably make a big difference if it stays in place. The other big issue, and I think we had the Region 9 Director for Health and Human Services come up. And that was one of the questions I asked him.
15:08
They’re talking about there is an exemption for Hawaii because we do have our own employer-mandated health care here. How is that fitting in with all the different parts of the health care reform? And his response was, we’re still working on that. So I think that’s something the legislature is going to have to watch. And if we have to make changes,
15:34
I think we need to really look at that. This is a funny question. It’s different. Sometimes I sit with Republicans, and when I sit with them, I often hear them say,
15:49
We don’t have enough comrades there to get enough dialogue, enough traction. Do you find that the political parties, in your experience, when you’re seeing and talking with Republicans, are they being treated like second-class citizens? Are their ideas being listened to in your opinion? If they have good ideas, I’m sure they will listen to them.
16:11
But for the most part, their solution is just saying no. And that’s not really, that doesn’t take you very far. So in other words, they’re saying no, but they’re not giving you an alternative. Well, for example, one of the biggest issues that we had was Furlough Fridays, finding a way to fund Furlough Fridays.
16:31
There was the final vote on the bill to actually remove Furlough Fridays for this current school year. There was only one vote against it, and that was from one of the Republicans.
16:42
And the argument that Republican had was she preferred a different kind of solution. But that wasn’t before us. That wasn’t what we were voting on. This was the only opportunity to resolve Fertile Fridays, and she voted no. Is she serving her constituents? I’m not sure. That’s a good point. So have you found that the legislature… Again, I’m asking really a general question because I can already see, as I’m speaking to you,
17:11
The gears are going. I think I told you. You’re quiet, but in my experience of you, you’re quiet, but I can see that the wheels are turning. Do you feel that the legislature has been equipped to handle what we’re doing? Anything’s missing? Do you feel if the balance were shifted that things would be that different in the way things are? You know, I think the legislature…
17:40
It really is something that it depends on who’s serving. Even though people talk about turnovers, there’s a lot of turnover. I think people focus on the members, the few members who actually stay and stay for a long time. I think we have Joe Suki on this island. But when you look at all the other members,
18:06
from the Maui delegation. We’re all fairly new. I think Kyle Yamashita, if he’s re-elected, is starting his third term. Same with Melly, Melly Carroll. Angus will be starting his third term. So you have a group that’s still pretty fresh and current? Sure.
18:28
and open you feel you have the people that are that are listening or any people that are you know name names but you know sometimes it’s the opportunity to speak to someone who is open and listening and flexible versus someone who comes in with an agenda
18:43
Like you said, I’m going to vote that way. No matter what you say, I’m voting that way. So there’s not a listening ear. Well, I think there’s a balance there to take because experience does matter. Knowing that some solution has been proposed before and there was an unfortunate result is one thing. But…
19:08
Deciding that an issue that might have been premature now is a solution that we really should be looking at. You know, I think that that’s huge. And sometimes, I think you’ve got to balance it. I think you’ve got to be able to sit there, listen to what people are saying, and you’re going to have to make the decision.
19:30
I don’t think that you have anyone that’s so doctrinaire in the legislature, whether you’re a Republican or a Democrat, that will not make time to hear from people back home. And if you get a reputation of ignoring your constituents, then I think the voters make it clear that they’re unhappy with that.
19:58
Gotcha. Well, you know, it’s interesting to me that you’re in an elected… Like you say, this is the first election you’re running for.
20:17
but you have been a prominent choice obviously you have a lot of qualifications that are attractive to people that are in office you have a very significant and solid background any areas that are your own personal passion that you’d like to initiate specifically
20:35
You know, anyone that’s ever served or worked at the Department of Natural Resources has to be concerned about where our priorities and challenges are. And right now… We’re going to wait a second just to see. Just a moment. Okay.
20:58
So environment is an issue? Yes, and look at where we are today. It’s a man-made park, but they’ve tried to keep as much of the wilderness an open feeling that you have. You go up to Eow State Park, which is one of the areas that was under management by the department of natural resources.
21:22
I think people would be surprised to realize that that department gets less than 1% of the state budget. There’s people who have all this, there’s all this rhetoric that the environment is our economy, but when it comes down to the way what we budget for, I think that really reflects what our priorities are. And, you know, I don’t disagree that human services, health, and education
21:52
are very, very important. But when you look at what happens during a crisis, what are we focusing on? I think the budget that was proposed by the current administration included a 44% cut to the Department of Agriculture. Now, people will say, OK, we’re not as much an agricultural state as we used to be. But the 44% cut included ag inspectors.
22:21
inspections that were crucial to continuing our nurseries and other farming operations. Who’s making those cuts? Is that something that happens in the legislature where they cut in places? Where does that come from? Who makes that choice? That proposal came from the current administration, so it came from the governor. So the governor who talks about environment cut 44%?
22:48
And that’s pretty shocking. Well, that’s why I think we held some hearings on Maui and we heard from both people from the department as well as people from, as well as farmers on the island. And it was left up to legislature to try to find a solution.
23:11
And so we did fund those positions to try to restore them. But again, it’s still going to be up to the governor to actually fill these positions. I see. Wow. So you can go in with the right intentions, pass the right thing, and it can still not happen if someone doesn’t want to follow through from that other branch. Right. I mean, I think the governor had cut out healthy start and taking care.
23:37
The legislature funded both those programs in 2009. She still didn’t release the money. We funded it again in 2010. And it still remains to be seen whether she goes ahead and gets that money out or not.
23:51
And that’s part of the badness that she has to take, because she has her own priorities, and she’s mandated to use the money for her life. But I think on policy issues, once the legislature has decided this is a policy, I think any administration should really, if the money’s there, should really implement it.
24:15
I was going to say, let me just share. Somehow these mowers like to follow us. I guess we’re attracting them. Can you hear us? I hope you can hear us. They’ll be gone soon. That’s a very good point. In other words, as a government working entity, if one branch passes this and does it in a way that was a solid vote in favor,
24:45
They just decided, again, I’m sure they have reasons, but they decided not to fund something that they had the money for, that’s sitting there, right? The money’s there now.
24:58
What is that? Is that just to say, no, I’m not going to do it? What is that? Well, that’s part of the checks and balances. I mean, that is her authority. She can go ahead and hold back her money. And use it for something else or not? No, she can’t use it for something else. I mean, well, there are, under certain parameters, she might be able to move some money around. But for the most part…
25:21
Whatever’s been appropriate can be used for what’s been authorized. I see, so… It’s the same thing with capital recruitment projects. There are projects that the legislature has approved, but it still takes the governor to decide whether to release the money and when to release the money. So the money can’t be used for something else?
25:50
And it’s just sitting there. And we need to create jobs. Am I hearing it right? That one gets me a little. What would be a reason for someone to hold back on something like that?
26:05
I can’t speak for the government. She may be looking at the entire year and wondering if revenues are coming back. Because we work off of projections. We work off of what the House of Representatives says will be the amount of money that the state will have. So she may be holding back. I mean, she might release it before the end of the
26:33
In other words, once you see that the revenue is sufficient to cover everything, that will actually arrive? Sure. But then, near the end of the year, if you know you have money, and you’re still not losing it, then obviously it’s a policy decision.
26:49
positive disagreement that she has with Steve. This knowledge that you have, is that just sort of years of experience or anything that’s happened since you’re sitting in your seat? No, I think it’s basic civics. I think it’s what I learned at Maui High School and first on this island. I think it’s something that you picked up over the years if you’re interested in
27:15
and the way our government operates. And I’m sure that actually working in state government and county government, you get a little bit more insight. But I think it’s something that… They’re surrounding us. I think it’s something that most people see. Many people say that our viewers are uninformed.
27:44
And then I’ve heard some say it’s because they don’t reach out. I’m wondering if we’re just going to have to be drowned out by these guys. We’re going to try to speak up for you. Actually, do you have a pistol? Do you want to move? No, I’m just wondering. I think we ought to think to move on because what we’re saying is, we’ll be right back. The magic of television. Hopefully we won’t be competing with the mowers.
28:14
I really appreciate, personally, someone that kind of has a good feeling for it and you have a knowledge of the local community, not only of the people, but what’s been going on here. Sometimes decisions can be made without knowing
28:35
Sure. I think it’s one of the things, if you’re going to be a state representative or a state senator, I think it’s good to have a little bit of background in the area you want to represent, the people you want to represent. Frankly, I would have thought it would be pretty arrogant to run after just moving into a district.
28:58
You say that going on a lot. I guess that people many times do that. And I think that some people have gone on to do a really good job working, but they do a good job after they start learning about their community. And I think I’m fortunate that this is an area I grew up in. I’m representing the parents of a lot of my classmates from high school, and now I’ve got classmates that have children and grandchildren here.
29:27
And it’s an area that I’ve seen grow and develop, and I think that’s one of the things that I’m excited about, because I see Kahului idea, even Pumale, changing in a way that offers a lot of opportunities for us. I mean, with the growth at Mount Memorial,
29:53
UH Mali College, Community for the Mali, Mali Medical Group, Kaiser Foundation. I think there’s an opportunity here to shift from just being basically a bedroom community for agricultural workers or for hotel workers, but also a place where our healthcare professionals, the future healthcare professionals can be here. Do you think we have room for another hospital or two?
30:23
I think that we would have to be very careful about that because we need to make sure that Mount Memorial stays viable. I know that
30:33
West Mali because of the distance and the fact that the Mali Highway is the only connection between the two memorials. I think there, there might be a need for some place where you can stabilize patients and provide services there.
30:53
I think we have to be very careful to make sure that the viability of modern memorial isn’t affected by it because right now it’s the only acute care hospital that we have and that makes a difference.
31:12
But a hospital, for example, that might treat a specialized thing that, I don’t know how to say it, doesn’t get handed a ballot, but becomes sort of a specialty, that could work. That might work. And it’s one of the problems, I think, with American health care. Only certain services really make money.
31:37
Otherwise, a lot of services, both at a hospital and in a doctor’s office, whether or not a doctor will make money off of it depends on the reimbursements, whether it’s from the insurance company or from the federal government or state government. Basic services, I think, are one of those issues where
32:03
I wish we could find a way we could fund those kinds of services more. Otherwise, I mean, and you can see it. When you get a bill from your doctor, you’ll see what HMSA is paying for or what Kaiser is paying for, and then you have your portion of the bill. I think that’s one of the issues that we deal with with basic services. With specialized services, you may be able to get better reimbursements.
32:33
And I think that’s one of the directions that the current board of Mount Memorial is moving towards. I think they’re beginning to establish a cardiac program, which is something that can be a service that
32:49
not only takes care of the people that live in this island, but could be a potential for also serving the big island that doesn’t have those kinds of specialties. Otherwise, most people will have to go to Oahu for cardiac surgery. And you mentioned about that the new health care bill will put us on a race toward
33:14
being at par with federal standards. So, in combination, hopefully it will create more services and better services. I think that’s everyone’s goal. I think what you, but what the potential for, and I think there’s, I think both our school system as well as university and our providers, our physicians and our
33:40
and our hospital are looking at working together to identify what areas are going to need additional workers. And let’s see if we can find a way to train them on island. And I think that’s the part that’s exciting to me. Right now, and I went away to school, and I think going away to school is a great thing.
34:05
Part of, I think, growing up is getting a little bit of separation from your parents and from your friends. And it also, a lot of times, helps you appreciate where you came from. And I think that’s why it was easy for me to come home. I mean, that was one of the easiest choices I ever made.
34:24
But it’s expensive. My niece, who I was a guardian of, she’s in college down in the Bay Area. So I know what it costs to send a child to school in the Bay Area.
34:41
UH Manoa, even that, for someone that has the kind of job or income that a lot of our people have, even that can be a stretch, especially if the Board of Regents now is looking at raising tuition fees. UH Maui College is still a bargain.
35:04
and i’d like to find ways to make sure we keep it that way but also now provide the kind of four-year degrees and other kind of training that is going to allow people to get that kind of training education here at home any areas of our maui county here that
35:25
We’re talking about issues and stuff. I always am wondering when I think of different things. Excuse me that I feel a little ignorant, but I am seeing more and more people that are losing houses and don’t have money and don’t have jobs and have need of services and social services. To say they’re an awkward group. They don’t have a Friday now. They’re extremely overworked.
35:49
People are not getting the services in a timely fashion. Whatever services there are don’t seem to be enough. Do you have any ideas or any thoughts of what we’re going to do in these times to address some of that stuff? I don’t know if it’s something you can address, but I’m just looking for insight. I think that’s where…
36:09
I think that’s where the biggest issues are going to be as we watch the economy slowly recover. There’s no doubt there’s recovery, it’s just that it’s tough to tell someone who used to have two fairly good jobs, two fairly good part-time jobs that were enough to take care of what a lot of people reached to get the kind of homes that they bought.
36:36
And it’s tough to tell them that the economy is getting better.
36:41
And the only thing that you can’t, I don’t think it’s prudent to make promises. But I think it should be clear that your legislators should care about that. And that should be something that we’re gonna try to look at. And if we can find a way to provide those services, then we should. One of the things that we looked at last session,
37:06
was, is there some way to use the resources that we already have when we were employed, such as unemployment insurance, to somehow put that back into the economy, besides paying the benefits to people that are unemployed. And I think Agnes McKelvey was looking at some of those issues. Obviously we couldn’t do it
37:31
the last couple of sessions because of projected deficit. But in other states, they’re looking at ways of using that money to keep people employed, rather than just to provide them benefits. Allowing businesses to use the money that they would otherwise be paying into that fund, to use it to provide health benefits for their employees, to probably lessen the impact of the downturn
38:02
That’s something we need to look at. Obviously, the unemployment fund for Hawaii is going to need to take a loan from the federal government. I think probably by the end of this month, they’re going to be looking to get money from the federal government. And that money is going to be repaid by the businesses that paid into the fund. Well, so what about alternative housing?
38:28
I want to say group housing. You know, when we put up wood and brick, those are substantial houses. But temporary housing solutions, changing laws to allow a different kind of housing that’s less expensive. Any of that possible stuff? Any of that go on?
38:49
I think there’s always discussions about that. And I think the caution is always going to be in terms of policies. Are we setting up a standard, a different standard for people who are not as well-off as others? So that this is the kind of housing you should settle for. And when you think about it, I grew up in an old plantation house.
39:17
And it was fine for me. And I didn’t consider myself poor. I didn’t consider myself needing a basement or a two-story house or two bathrooms. But I think people have the aspiration now to have that single-family home. I think there’s a lot of things that will take a different kind of mindset.
39:45
as well, not just from government in terms of building coals and the like, but also among people. What is it that you need for shelter? Do you need a home that’s completely air conditioned? Do you need two bathrooms? What is it that you’re looking for? And whether or not we’re going to be able to provide the incentives and kind of
40:15
the kind of infrastructure that people are willing to go ahead and go ahead and build this kind of house and people wouldn’t buy those homes or rent those homes. I kind of like the idea of the housing trust that is now buying some homes out of foreclosure and then putting covenants on them so that they will remain affordable after they’re sold again. So there are solutions out there.
40:45
And the question is finding the resources to put those solutions in place. And I think it’s, you know, one of the bigger issues is really… I think because in Maui in the past was really…
41:07
I guess a company town, I guess is what it’s referred to. Everyone was elected in some way to these couple of live employers. And so you had a common experience. You understood that everyone was going through the same sort of issues. Now I think we’ve got a little bit more, a little bit more discomfort.
41:30
we have different interests, and we’re willing to forget that there is a need for a link with your neighbors, with your neighbor’s children, that you’ve got to care about them, that it’s not something that you’re on your own. And I think one of the things… I’m sorry, I was just going to say, getting back to a community feeling, that seems to have been…
41:55
gone up in the air, like you said, people are in their own little world instead of somehow… And I don’t blame them for trying to take care of their own, but there is, and I think that’s one reason why public service is something interesting. I mean, I would never have run for office
42:13
prior to this, because I was interested in doing the kinds of things I was working on outside, you know, as someone that was in the community, on the boards of different nonprofits, and basically doing these sort of things. And I think we just got finished with the county fair.
42:31
What I like most about the town is when you go to a food court, you realize that those people are there as volunteers and what you’re buying is going to go towards projects in the community. That’s the part that I like.
42:51
like going through the arcade or the rides anymore although you know when you’re with a bunch of kids you know that’s where they that’s where they want to go i like the better living tent and the flowers that’s what i like oh yeah the first night i think my wife callie went straight to the orchid exhibit and bought a bunch of orchids for herself and my mother so last last couple of years she’s gone on the final day looking for bargains but by then the plants are all dead
43:20
You wonder, how come all these plants are so flat? I guess they’re not doing too much watering. That’s interesting. You know, I could talk with you a long time because I feel, and again, you have a lot of things you’re interested in. You’re very responsive. You’re open.
43:41
As I’ve been talking to you, I can tell you’re the kind of person that I can talk to and talk about an issue and you digest it. You’re really a very interesting and exciting candidate. I’ve had a real pleasure here talking to you. Are there any specific areas that you’d like our voters to know
44:00
either about you or what you want to do or anything like that that you can just be dressed in? Sure. Well, I appreciate the time that you’ve given me today on your show. One of the toughest things about being in the legislature is that you’re living there for four months out of the year and you’re away from your family. I came home mostly on weekends.
44:25
But it’s the feedback, and I think I talked about that earlier, it’s getting the feedback from the community on what’s happening in the legislature. And I hope that you will take the opportunity to call the office on Oahu from elected, or email us during the session. Anyway, thanks a lot for your help. You’re welcome. I must say, you’re a very, it’s exciting to me. I’m someone who came here in 88.
44:54
And people talk about the education here, but what do you say? You’re a good product of this education. Do you feel your education gave you a foundation to move forward? Because you’re very eloquent and you really represent the people here, I feel, in a very positive way. Great, thanks. I think it goes back to my own philosophy of education. It starts with yourself, but you also have to get support from your parents,
45:20
And you also have to have very good teachers. And I had very good teachers at Doris Todd and Molly High School. Gotcha. Well, thank you for joining us. I hope this was a good insight into Gil Keith Agaran. Agaran? Agaran? How do you say it? Agaran. Agaran. A wonderful guy. I appreciate you coming on and spending the time for all you guys. Thank you for joining us, and we’ll see you again. Don’t forget to vote. Don’t forget to vote.
45:49
The time has come to make a change The time has come to unlock a hope that lives In each and every one of us And we must do our part
46:07
We hold the visions God dreams of Our hands can heal the ones we love Let’s gather round and let us make a stand
46:22
for you and me unlock the hope and there’s a better life unlock the hope there’ll be no turning back but nothing changes unless we unlock the whole
