MEDIA RELEASE

Mayor Billy Kenoi has named Burt Tsuchiya the new director of the county Department of Data Systems effective Jan. 26.  

Burt Tsuchiya

The appointment fills one of the last vacant slots in the mayor’s cabinet. Kenoi was sworn in Dec. 1 as mayor. The planning director chair still is vacant.

Tsuchiya, 41, has been a county systems analyst in the department since 2007 responsible for planning, designing and developing information systems. Tsuchiya also worked as a programmer for KTA Super Stores 1993-2007, and was a KTA computer operator 1987-1990. 

Tsuchiya, a Hilo resident, holds a bachelor of science degree in computer science from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. He also attended the University of Hawaii at Hilo, and is a graduate of Hilo High School. He currently serves on the board of trustees for Honpa Hongwanji Hilo Betsuin. 

Kenoi said the Big Island native will serve as an example and encourage island youth to pursue careers in high technology fields.

“Mr. Tsuchiya’s experience in both the private and public sectors make him an ideal choice, and I know he brings energy and fresh thinking to his new post,” Kenoi said. “He is the right choice to guide the county to a new level in information technology.” 

Tsuchiya said he is looking forward to building on what has already been accomplished in Data Systems, and using technology to further increase productivity. 

“We have an excellent, very capable staff, and we really have to focus on meeting the expectations and goals of the current administration and the public,” Tsuchiya said.

The Data Systems Department is primarily responsible for managing and operating the county’s central computer system and telecommunications network, which permits shared use of all county departments and agencies. 

It also plays a leading role in advising county agencies on computer-related matters; coordinating the purchase and use of computer equipment and software; and providing end-user computer training and support for county employees.