MEDIA RELEASE

Fred Housel has filed papers to run for election to the State House of Representatives, representing District 6, which comprises most of the Kailua-Kona community.

Housel is a Kona coffee farmer.

“I am excited to be able to file for office now that the Reapportionment Commission has finally approved the Reapportionment Plan and has released the new State District maps. It’s been a long wait since my Jan. 10 announcement, however, during this time, I have taken the opportunity to listen to what the voters in our community are concerned about,” he said.

“Many voters have told me that Hawaii Island’s economy and unemployment are number one on their list. The economy is showing positive signs of improvement, but the progress has been slow, with many people still having a difficult time making ends meet.”

Other issues which are on people’s minds are the Honokohau small boat harbor, the steadily increasing traffic congestion on major highways such as Queen Kaahumanu Highway and the progress of the West Hawaii Community College at Palamanui.

Housel said his experience as Leeward Planning Commission Chairman and President of Community Enterprises, which produces monthly Kona Town Meetings, has been very beneficial in helping him understand the challenges facing the citizens of Kailua-Kona.

Housel moved to Hawaii 10 years ago. Previously, he and his wife of 22 years, Barbara, lived in Los Gatos, Calif. He retired from Cisco Systems, after 20 years in research and design in the Silicon Valley computer industry.

He and Barbara have three adult children and six grandchildren who live on the mainland.

Housel said he is seeking community input, and may be reached by phone at 331-8602 and via email at fred@fredhousel.com.