County Council candidate profile: Mike Victorino

Victorino
Michael P. (Mike) Victorino
Occupation: County Councilman and Insurance Advisor (Small Business)
Educational Background: Attended Hilo College, Hawaii Community College (Majored in Accounting and Marketing) and University of Hawaii Maui College (Business Administration)
Community Involvement: AYSO, MYSO, HYSA, The Hawaii Cup (tournament director), Little League, Pony Baseball, PTA President at Wailuku Elementary and Vice President at Iao School, Maui District School Advisory Council, MALU Vice President, NIAFA Hawaii State Secretary, Vice President and President of Gender Equity Commission, Gender Equity Advisory Commission, Maui County Fair, Maui Economic Concerns of the Community, Maui Economic Development Board, Knights of Columbus (23 years; presently serving as State Secretary for the Hawaii State Council).
Political Experience: State of Hawaii-Maui District Board of Education (1998-2000), Board of Water Supply (2002-06; Chair 2004-06), Maui County Council (2007 to present)
1) WHY ARE YOU RUNNING?
To make Maui Nui the best county in the state. Creating a sustainable, diversified economy, and keep our visitor industry healthy. To ensure safe, livable communities that incorporate green and energy-efficient systems, sustainable/good employment, and truly affordable housing.
2) HOW CAN MAUI COUNTY DIVERSIFY ITS ECONOMY,
SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES AND CREATE JOBS?
Starting with renewable energy, bio crops, and food products for local consumption is a giant step in that direction. Reducing the permitting process, creating incentives for new and small business, and supporting education for high-tech and medical industries.
3) WHAT ARE THE THREE KEY ISSUES IN THE 2010 ELECTIONS,
AND HOW WOULD YOU ATTACK THEM?
The top three issues for the 2010 election are the economy, water and the direction this county will take. Supporting our visitor industry with promoting and exploring new markets. Water with purchasing, developing new sources, and CIP five-year project program with federal, state and county funding sources. Develop crop farming for both bio and food crops.
4) WHY SHOULD VOTERS CHOOSE YOU?
I bring to the table 30 years of working in this community, a business mindset and background, a working family’s experience, an open mind to look for change and a heart for all the people of Maui County.
5) WHAT ARE THE TOP PRIORITIES OF YOUR DISTRICT?
Working with the various community associations to preserve the ag lands, redevelopment of Wailuku Town, road repairs and upgrades and the development of parks.