Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2005

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Transportation and Government Operations, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 582, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee received testimony in support of RICHARD M. MERSCHDORF from the Department of Transportation, Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, and four individuals. Mr. Merschdorf is currently the Financial Advisor and Branch Manager of Aloha Financial Services in Kailua-Kona. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Anthropology and Economics and a Master of Science degree in Education from the University of Oregon. Mr. Merschdorf brings years of experience from working with voluntary boards and commissions that are dedicated to community service. He has been an advocate for safer roads for cyclists, motorists, and pedestrians for years. Mr. Merschdorf is also an active member in PATH (Peoples Advocacy for Trail Hawaii), which is a bike and pedestrian advocacy organization dedicated to the safety of the community.

Your Committee notes the dedication Mr. Merschdorf brings to providing solutions to the many problems facing the communities statewide with regard to both traffic and safety. Mr. Merschdorf's years of experience will make him a valuable addition to the council. Your Committee further notes from his oral testimony that he would like to segregate the bicyclists and joggers in Kona from the vehicular traffic, which is a major traffic safety issue in Kona.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Transportation and Government Operations that is attached to this report, your Committee, after full consideration of the background, experience, and qualifications of the nominee, has found the nominee to be qualified for the position to which nominated and recommends that the Senate advise and consent to the nomination.