STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3986

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 736

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Health and Human Services, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 736, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

Board of Certification of Operating Personnel in Wastewater Treatment Plants

G.M. No. 736

JON KAWAMURA for a term to expire 06-30-2030,

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee reviewed the personal history, resume, and statement submitted by Jon Kawamura for service on the Board of Certification of Operating Personnel in Wastewater Treatment Plants.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Jon Kawamura from the Department of Health.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Mr. Kawamura's background and dedication to serving the public qualify him to be appointed to the Board of Certification of Operating Personnel in Wastewater Treatment Plants as a member who is employed as a certified operator or certified supervisor of a wastewater treatment plant in the County of Hawaii. Your Committee notes that Mr. Kawamura has over three decades of experience in the wastewater treatment industry and currently serves as the Plant Superintendent and Designated Responsible Charge (DRC) of the Heeia Wastewater Treatment Plant at Hawaii Water Service. Previously, Mr. Kawamura served as a Treatment Plant Supervisor and DRC for over two decades at Aqua Engineers, Inc. Your Committee further notes that Mr. Kawamura has a strong understanding of certification standards and regulatory requirements for wastewater treatment plant operators and their importance to plant operations and is committed to ensuring that operators in the State are properly trained and qualified. Your Committee finds that Mr. Kawamura has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of board members and his extensive experience in the management, operation, and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants will enhance the effectiveness of the Board. Your Committee therefore recommends that Jon Kawamura be appointed to the Board of Certification of Operating Personnel in Wastewater Treatment Plants based on his knowledge, background, and dedication to public service.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Health and Human Services that is attached to this report, your Committee, after full consideration of the background, experience, and qualifications of the nominee, has found the nominee to be qualified for the position to which nominated and recommends that the Senate advise and consent to the nomination.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Health and Human Services,

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JOY A. SAN BUENAVENTURA, Chair