Eric Molina works as an event manager at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center and as the vice president of an advertising firm. He’s also been appointed to a couple County of Maui boards, like the Mayor’s Arborist Committee and the Maui Block Grant Program. He’s one of four people vying to replace outgoing Maui County Councilmember Gladys Baisa.
MAUITIME: What is your top priority if elected?
ERIC MOLINA: “Keeping Maui’s Future Bright.” Work towards legislation to provide affordable housing. Diversify our economy by supporting small business growth. Preserve and protect our natural resources. Promote culture and the arts in Maui County. Supporting energy and food independence.
MT: What event in your life best prepared you for public office?
EM: Every experience in my life has brought me to this moment. Mostly my family who are passionate about politics and the belief that it is our duty to work towards positive change in our community.
MT: Who should be the next President of the United States?
EM: Whichever candidate the United States voters decide.
MT: Which person who previously held the office you’re seeking do you hold up as a model? Why?
EM: Gladys Baisa, for her mediation and origination skills.
MT: Do you support changing the County Charter to allow the mayor, as opposed to the Liquor Commission, to appoint the Liquor Control Director?
EM: No.
MT: What should the county do that it isn’t already doing to alleviate homelessness?
EM: Coordinate with our local nonprofits to provide data on the levels of homelessness. Do define Maui County’s chronic and transitional homeless population. Then work towards providing shelters, transitional and affordable housing to meet each group’s needs.
MT: HC&S is closing at the end of this year–what do you think A&B should do with the 37,000 acres that were used for growing sugar?
EM: What they should not do is let the land site idle. Any acres that are not used for small business should be restored to a native dryland forest.
Photo: Jack Grace
Comments
comments