Kanoe Shimizu Appointed to Independent Nomination Board

“I want better for my community, for my children, for the future to come. I think it’s important to step in where I can make a difference and just plan for the future so that future generations are left with a good structure,” said Kanoe Shimizu.

Shimizu’s commitment to Lāna‘i and its future led her to join the Independent Nomination Board (INB) for Maui County, where she sees a vital role in shaping the island’s representation. “The INB’s mission resonated with me, especially because it’s about empowering our community through participation in governance,” she said. Her involvement signifies a critical effort to “help bridge the gap between Lāna‘i and the county’s decision-making processes.”

The INB, established following a 2022 charter amendment in Maui County, consists of nine members, one from each council residency area, appointed by the mayor and approved by the council. This board plays a crucial role in the governance structure, tasked with recruiting, evaluating, interviewing and nominating individuals to serve on all county boards and commissions, including key positions like the county auditor, county clerk, corporation counsel and prosecuting attorney. The INB’s responsibilities also encompass reviewing application procedures and ensuring that the nomination process is aligned with the specific requirements of each board or commission. In cases of vacancy, the INB is required to present a list of nominees within 60 days, maintaining confidentiality in applicant considerations as mandated by law.

“For too long, Lāna‘i has had vacant seats in important county positions. I want to change that narrative and ensure we have strong representation,” Kanoe said. She believes that being on the INB allows her to advocate for Lāna‘i effectively and contribute to the island’s development within the county’s framework.

Kanoe’s work is profoundly influenced by her Native Hawaiian heritage, which she sees as central to her identity and approach to community service. “My reason for community involvement is my passion for the Native Hawaiian language and rights. It guides my actions and decisions,” she said.

This passion extends to her other commitments on Lāna‘i, including her roles on the Domestic Violence Task Force Committee, the Lāna‘i Cancer Fund, and as treasurer for Ke Kula Kaiapuni o Lāna‘i. Through her participation in the INB and other community organizations, Kanoe seeks to enhance Lāna‘i’s representation in Maui County’s governance and ensure that the community’s needs and perspectives, especially those rooted in its Native Hawaiian heritage, are acknowledged and addressed.