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Editor’s note: For Hawaii’s Nov. 5 General Election, Civil Beat asked candidates to answer some questions about where they stand on various issues and what their priorities will be if elected.

The following came from Josiah Ubando, Republican candidate for state House District 49, which covers Kaneohe and Maunawili. His opponent is Democrat Scot Matayoshi.

Go to Civil Beat’s Election Guide for general information, and check out other candidates on the General Election Ballot.

1. What is the biggest issue facing your district, and what would you do about it?

The issue I hear about the most in my district is infrastructure maintenance, particularly concerning overgrown canals and rough roads.

To address this, I would prioritize collaboration with the city to develop a preventive maintenance plan. This proactive approach ensures that infrastructure issues are identified and addressed early, reducing repair costs and minimizing disruptions to residents.

By allocating resources to regular inspections, timely repairs and effective maintenance strategies, we can enhance the durability and safety of our roads and waterways. 

Another issue is homelessness.

I would prioritize working with nonprofits/outreach programs to provide comprehensive support services and connecting the homeless with places like the recently built Papepae Hou Kauhale.

By addressing root causes like housing insecurity and mental health, we can offer sustainable solutions to the homeless in our district. 

2. How do you feel about the massive income tax cut just approved by the Legislature and the governor? Do you have any concerns that it will force reductions in state services in the years to come?

I think the recent income tax cut sounds like it will provide some much-needed relief to the people of Hawaii. However, like any tax cuts, there can be unintended negative repercussions. One major concern is the potential impact on state revenue, which could force reductions in essential state services such as education, health care and public safety in the years to come. 

To address this, it is crucial that we closely monitor the implementation of the tax cut. By keeping a vigilant eye on the state’s budget and service levels, we can ensure that the benefits of the tax cut do not come at the expense of the vital services that residents depend on.

3. Hawaii continues to struggle with pay-to-play politics and corruption in government. What meaningful reforms do you think would change state government for the better?

A good start would be to implement performance evaluations and benchmarks for government programs to ensure accountability and efficiency in public spending. This would help identify and address inefficiencies, reduce opportunities for corruption and ensure taxpayer dollars are used effectively to benefit the community.

Implementing strict campaign finance regulations to limit contributions from special interests would reduce undue influence. We could also strengthen lobbying laws with stricter reporting requirements and a cooling-off period for former officials.

4. Candidates often say they will support reform proposals in the Legislature. And yet major reform proposals don’t pass. Will you back good-government proposals even if it means going against leadership? If you are an incumbent, can you point to an example of a reform that you supported?

Absolutely, I will support any and all reforms that benefit the people. The job of a representative is to serve their constituents, and nothing should get in the way of that duty.

One significant barrier to effective legislation in Hawaii is party affiliation. Good ideas should stand on their own merits, not be hindered by political labels.

As a representative, I will prioritize the needs and interests of our community above party politics. I am committed to evaluating and backing proposals based on their potential to improve the lives of the people I serve, regardless of where they originate. It’s time we move beyond partisan divisions and focus on what truly matters: delivering positive outcomes for our constituents.

5. Do you support comprehensive public financing of elections for candidates who choose to participate? Why or why not?

If we can find a way to fund it without taking from things with more importance, I would support comprehensive public financing of elections for candidates who choose to participate. This approach helps non-career politicians have a fair chance.

Throughout my campaign, I’ve been told by countless people in office that money wins elections. Public financing can help level the playing field, allowing candidates to focus on their message and their vision for the community rather than on fundraising. This system promotes a more diverse and representative democracy by enabling more voices to be heard, regardless of their financial backing.

6. Hawaii is the only Western state without a statewide citizens initiative process. Do you support such a process? Why or why not?

I do not support the implementation of a statewide citizens initiative process in Hawaii. I believe our current election system provides ample opportunities for citizens to engage with their government. If you have ideas or concerns, visiting your representative and discussing them directly is a more effective way to bring about change.

Moreover, if you are dissatisfied with your government’s actions, participating in elections and voting out officials who do not represent your interests is the most direct and democratic way to effect change.

7. Thanks to their campaign war chests and name familiarity, incumbents are almost always reelected in Hawaii legislative races. Should there be term limits for state legislators, as there are for the governor’s office and county councils? Why or why not?

I believe that term limits could help prevent corruption and stop career politicians from getting a foothold in our government. By ensuring regular turnover, term limits can bring fresh perspectives and new ideas to the legislature. This change would promote a more dynamic and responsive government.

Therefore, I would be open to supporting term limits for state legislators.

8. What will you do to ensure accountability at the Legislature? Do you support ideas such as requiring the Sunshine Law to apply to the Legislature or banning campaign contributions during session?

Yes, I support requiring the Sunshine Law to apply to the Legislature and banning campaign contributions during the session. Transparency is essential for accountability, and applying the Sunshine Law to the Legislature would ensure that legislative processes are open to public scrutiny. This would help prevent backroom deals and increase trust in our government. 

Additionally, banning campaign contributions during the session would reduce the influence of money on legislative decisions, ensuring that lawmakers focus on their constituents’ needs rather than fundraising. These measures would be good steps toward a more transparent, accountable and trustworthy government.

9. How would you make the Legislature more transparent and accessible to the public? Opening conference committees to the public? Stricter disclosure requirements on lobbying and lobbyists? How could the Legislature change its own internal rules to be more open?

The Legislature is pretty accessible as is, with a dedicated room in the Capitol where the public can learn about legislative processes and watch hearings live.

Zoom-accessible hearings have been a significant improvement, making it easier for people to participate without being physically present. However, I believe some hearings should be scheduled on days and times that accommodate people who work 9-5 jobs, allowing for greater public in person participation. 

Additionally, the Legislature needs to improve the scheduling of hearings, as there were instances where only a 48-hour notice was given for certain bills. The public should be informed at least a week in advance to ensure they have adequate time to prepare and engage. 

10. Many people have talked about diversifying the local economy for many years now, and yet Hawaii is still heavily reliant on tourism. What, if anything, should be done differently about tourism and the economy?

Hawaii’s heavy reliance on tourism has led to the neglect of other potential sources of income. While tourism generates substantial revenue and cannot be easily replaced, it is essential to diversify the local economy to ensure long-term stability. One approach is to implement a visitor fee for tourists.

We should also be investing in local, sustainable agriculture. This not only reduces the state’s dependence on imported goods but also promotes food security and creates job opportunities.

11. An estimated 60% of Hawaii residents are struggling to get by, a problem that reaches far beyond low-income and into the middle class, which is disappearing. What ideas do you have to help the middle class and working families who are finding it hard to continue to live here?

Several measures can be taken to alleviate financial stress and improve living conditions. One approach is to make food and medicine exempt from the general excise tax, which would reduce the cost of essential items. 

Enhancing support programs like food banks and community gardens can address food insecurity directly. By expanding these programs, we can ensure that families struggling with food costs have access to nutritious meals. Community gardens not only provide fresh produce but also promote self-sufficiency and community engagement.

We should also be investing in affordable housing projects that put locals first and are actually affordable.

We need a visitor fee that is used to give subsidies to the residents.

I would also oppose any type of legislation that would increase the cost of living.