Aloha! I am Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu and I represent District 41, which encompasses Waikele, Royal Kunia, Village Park, and Waipahu. I am running for re-election for this district and humbly ask for your support.
As a freshman Democrat, I introduced legislation to strengthen technology, encourage businesses to locate in economically depressed areas, lower the cost of health insurance, create a science and technology magnet school, and improve the efficiency of our tourism marketing contracts. In 2004, I was successful in passing two of my bills into law. One of my bills mandates an ethics training for elected and appointed state officials, and the other protects consumers and business from fraudulent Ni'ihau shell product sales. Further, I was able to secure nearly $32 million for projects in the Waipahu area. Despite being in my first term, I believe I was successful as a legislator because I bring fresh ideas to the table, analyze issues with an open mind, and work well with people.
If re-elected, I would like to work on a number of my goals for Hawaii. I dream of making Hawaii a global economic power in technology, biotechnology, science, e-commerce, film, digital media, and alternative energy, which will benefit everyone. Businesses will be able to expand and diversify. With more businesses around, entrepreneurs will have a lot of fun creating new services and products. Skilled workers will be able to find jobs in Hawaii instead of leaving for the mainland United States. Labor will have more jobs in service, transporting goods, and building and maintaining infrastructure. With more money coming into Hawaii, more revenues will be collected by the state. As a result, social and community programs combating drugs, domestic violence, sexual assault, and crime will be positively impacted. The knowledge-based economy will be a wonderful addition to our tourism, military, and agriculture industries. This dream inspires me to keep working hard step by step. If island nations such as Japan and Taiwan can do it, so can Hawaii!
In regards to education, I want to have science, technology, art, and business programs emphasized in public schools. We need to begin training our children to be innovative and creative from an early age. Parents' participation in their children's education will be crucial.
Further, I want to see Hawaii with a comprehensive recycling program where everyone participates. I will look to see if Hawaii can have a state-of-the-art facility to turn trash into re-usable material and convert processing energy into electricity. Technology will play a key role in recycling.
Finally, I would like to see a modern mass transit system on Oahu that blends nicely with our city and environment. This transportation system will stop at major locations throughout the island.
Once again, my name is Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu and I would be honored to get your support in my re-election for State House District 41, which includes Waikele, Royal Kunia, Village Park, and Waipahu. Aloha!
JON RIKI KARAMATSU 