STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1950

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 763

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Hawaiian Affairs, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 763, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

Island Burial Council, Islands of Kaua'i and Ni'ihau

G.M. No. 763

CHADLEY SCHIMMELFENNIG, for a term to expire 06-30-2029,

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee reviewed the personal history, resume, and statement submitted by Chadley Schimmelfennig for service on the Island Burial Council, Islands of Kauaʻi and Niʻihau.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Chadley Schimmelfennig from the Department of Land and Natural Resources; Kauai Museum; Royal Order of Kamehameha I, Kaumualii Chapter No. 3; and two individuals.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Mr. Schimmelfennig's knowledge of traditional burial practices and understanding of protocol qualify him to be appointed to the Island Burial Council, Islands of Kauaʻi and Niʻihau, as a member representing Koloa. Your Committee notes that Mr. Schimmelfennig has worked in the field of education since 2014, serving in diverse positions including instructor, mentor, vice principal, and executive director. He received a Master's degree in Educational Administration with a focus in Hawaiian charter schools from Chaminade University in 2022. He currently serves as Chair of the Royal Order of Kamehameha I committee overseeing the restoration of a cultural preserve area in Hoʻai, Koloa, and his leadership has been crucial in restoring this important heritage site. Mr. Schimmelfennig has direct genealogical connections to the Koloa region and many of his ancestors are buried there, reflecting his relationship with the land. He has served as a caretaker of heiau and other sacred sites throughout the Koloa Poʻipū area and has been taught to identify and care for iwi kupuna. Your Committee finds that Mr. Schimmelfennig has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of council members and his extensive experience in community-based cultural restoration work will enhance the effectiveness of the Council. Your Committee therefore recommends that Chadley Schimmelfennig be appointed to the Island Burial Council, Islands of Kauaʻi and Niʻihau, based on his knowledge, background, and dedication to public service.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Hawaiian Affairs 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.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Hawaiian Affairs,

____________________________

HERBERT M. RICHARDS, III, Chair