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Senate District 8
Kalama Valley, Aina Haina
*Denotes incumbent
Tony Coloretti
DEMOCRAT
Age: 62
Job: Sole proprietor for Rock Island Jazz Production and Recording Co. and RIJ Distributors.
Years here: 31What are the unique qualifications you bring to this job?
Worked in insurance, hotel/restaurant and shipping industries. Worked as an advocate for five years, which enabled me to give oral and written testimony before both the House and Senate for insurance parity, mental health, senior and homeless concerns. Appointed by both governors to serve on DVR & SB Counsel.
What are the top three issues facing Hawaii (from most pressing to least)?
1) Full-time legislators, no 90-day limit, no conflict of interest. Representatives with time to research and pass bills needed. 2) Why isn't our public policy zero tolerance to homelessness? World market demands for Hawaiian products exceeds our supply! 3) Boost economical base through high tech, aquaculture, education and Hawaiian gourmet foods.
Are changes needed to the civil service system? If so, what are they?
No response
Marsha R. Joyner
DEMOCRAT
Age: 62
Job: Owner of Hair Fair Salon in Waikiki/ event video producer
Years here: 30What are the unique qualifications you bring to this job?
I try to listen; truly hear what people say to better understand their concerns and expectations of government. An 18-year resident of Hawaii Kai, I have a history of reaching out; building coalitions/organizations to formulate practical solutions to community problems. I know well the issues concerning East Honolulu.
What are the top three issues facing Hawaii (from most pressing to least)?
1) Enhancing the learning environment; teachers, supplies, buildings, and parent involvement are primary. 2) Expanding Hawaii's economic base; high-tech infrastructure (telecommunications, distance learning), replacing petrochemical with renewable-energy sources, encouraging agriculture and aquaculture. 3) Eliminating GET on prescription drugs/food for seniors and disabled.
Are changes needed to the civil service system? If so, what are they?
While we cannot trample on the hard-earned rights of civil servants, I believe that all understand the fact that the way we do business has changed dramatically. We must carefully examine how and what "win-win" improvements can and must be formulated. I am eager to learn more about this complex issue.
Sam Slom*
REPUBLICAN
Age: 58
Job: Consulting economist/small business owner/nonprofit organization president/state senator
Years here: 40What are the unique qualifications you bring to this job?
I listen, return all communications personally, keep my word, accept accountability and am consistent. My experience includes small business ownership, bank economist, tax and finance, college professor, community advocate, father of two public school students and a non-career politician who knows I am a public servant responsible to all taxpayers.
What are the top three issues facing Hawaii (from most pressing to least)?
a) An improved competitive business and investment climate and quality standard of living to benefit anyone -- not just political cronies -- willing to work hard ... b) Measurable educational reform, including adequate funding for teacher salaries and incentives, reduction in class size ... and implementation of standards. c) Open, responsible and balanced two-party government.
Are changes needed to the civil service system? If so, what are they?
Changes are needed both to civil service and collective bargaining. I supported the governor's and Senate's 2000 legislative position, which clearly separated the two functions, modernized civil service, provided incentives, autonomy for counties, privatization and accountability for delivery of services and benefits.
