Tercia Ku

Republican

Age: 50

Job: Policy/funding specialist, Health Dept.

Past: Medical/ clinical research specialist; legislative office manager

What is the most important issue facing your district, and what would you do about it?
There are a multitude of important issues, but perhaps the most important to me concerns the sustainability of the residents of the Leeward coast. Homelessness, unemployment, substance abuse, mental health—all of these issues pose a continued threat to a peaceful community. It's very difficult to choose just one. It takes a grass-roots effort of all community residents to make a difference. If elected, I would look into revitalizing of neighborhoods, provision of services for those in need, survey the community for their priorities, wants and needs—then act on these goals based on community input.

What qualifies you to be a state representative?
I am a United States citizen over 18 years of age who has been a resident of the Leeward side for more than a dozen consecutive years – these are the basic qualifications required. What qualifies me is the willingness to serve my community and my heartfelt desire to make a positive difference, thereby providing the best place for our children to live with a bright and promising future.

  What is one thing you would do in office to improve the local economy?
I would introduce legislation to reduce taxes, or at the very least look at returning more tax monies to the people. Statistics have shown that when people have more money they spend that money for goods and services which in the end improves the local economy. Government has never been efficient in its services so I would look at how we can improve our services — perhaps public/private partnerships.

  Do you support convening a Constitutional Convention? Please explain.
Yes, it’s been 30 years since the last Con Con — it’s just time for another.

  Do you support Oahu’s planned rail-transit system? Please explain.
No, the fact that this expensive system will not improve traffic from the west side means that the monies being spent are a poor investment toward alleviating the problem.

  What can the Legislature do to improve Hawaii’s public education?
All legislators should commit to sending their own children to public schools. This would provide a better understanding of the system and having this investment would be more than a passing concern but one of great personal interest. It’s about living the problem and finding ways to improve the system of education that is provided to the public.

DID NOT RESPOND:
» Karen Awana (D)