State House District 27 candidate Lynn Vasquez on the issues

NUUANU—Lynn Vasquez is the Democratic candidate for State House District 27, which is comprised of parts of Nuuanu, Liliha, Puunui and Alewa Heights.

Vasquez is a volunteer coordinator for the Kau Kau Wagon hunger outreach program. She has served on Neighborhood Boards 14 and 15 and is a vocal opponent of Honolulu and Kapalama becoming a National Heritage Area, which she says would put decision-making power in the hands of a proposed group of non-profits, tourism businesses, and government agencies.

The Hawaii Independent presented questions to each General Election candidate. Responses will be published in the order in which they are received.

Here are Vasquez’s responses.

Why are you running for office?
“The Heritage Area Group” and “Against The Heritage Area Group” came in front of the Kalihi/Palama Neighborhood Board, which I was a member of last year and did a presentation. I was shocked that my opponent knew about the Heritage Area for five to six years and in fact, was very much involved in trying to put it into legislation here. She failed to inform her constituents about it. I have testified about this in front of Sen. Carol Fukunaga with other citizens. As of now, it is on hold in Washington, D.C.

What is the single most important issue for your constituents?
To stop legislation of the National Heitage Area.

What would you change in the way that issue is being handled presently?
More media attention to it.

Who is your largest campaign contributor?
Mr. Allen Stack.

What’s your stance on rail? Can Hawaii afford it? 
We need it. Good question.

Where do you stand on civil unions? Would you have voted in favor of House Bill 444?
I would have voted for it. I believe in equality!

How do we get Hawaii residents active in the elections process?
No vote, no grumble.

How can we help Hawaii’s small businesses to stay alive during these hard times?
Give them incentives, tax breaks.

For more information, visit lynnvasquez.com.