Henry Aquino

Party: Democratic

Age: 32

Job: Program Coordinator, Waipahu Community Association.

Born in Honolulu, HI. In Hawaii from birth

Lives: Waipahu

Contact: 780-9157, friendsofhenryaquino@gmail.com

Job history past 10 years:
Feb. 2007 to present Waipahu Community Association, Program Coord. 2005-2007, Catholic Charities Class/Presentation Specialist. 2003, Wackenhut Inc. Security Officer. 1998-2002, Stock/Delivery.

Ever run for public office? When? Outcome?
Yes, ran for State House Dist. 35 in 2004. Lost in the primary election.

Other civic experience or community service:
Coordinator, Waipahu Community Coalition; Co-coordinator, Waipahu Graffiti Paint Out and Clean Up; Member, Democratic Party of Hawaii; Member, Waipahu Elem. SCC; Member, AGAPE Ministry.

Anything else you'd like voters to know about you?
I'm also a volunteer instructor for St. Joseph's CCD program and a senior instructor for the Hawaii Chinese Kenpo School. I've lived in the community of Waipahu for more than 29 years.

1) Why are you running for office?
I am running to represent District 35 in the State House of Representatives, which encompasses Waipahu, Crestview and Seaview for one reason. Through my experience and consistent service to the Waipahu community, I understand the many issues we face together. I am running to help make a true difference in our district and state.

2) With state revenue growth slowing, what are your top three priorities for government spending?
With our local economy struggling, we have to be mindful of how we spend our hard-working tax dollars. I will look out for our tax dollars and ensure accountability so that we all get our fair share. My top three priorities for government spending are to invest in the public education system, allocate funding to strengthen our economy, and to make affordable homes/housing a priority.

3) What steps should the state take to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuel?
As a state, there are several things we can do together. We need to commit to conservation by developing and implementing alternative means of clean and affordable renewable energy. Our state government should continue to take steps in strengthening our ability to grow and produce food locally. These ideas would greatly help to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels.

4) What’s the No. 1 thing needed to improve Hawai’i public schools?
I support the idea that a well-trained, strong, and educated population is essential in achieving a strong, healthy, and diversified economy. In order to achieve this, we need to invest more funding into our public school system to fix and maintain school facilities, hire and retain quality educators, and the resources needed to address the needs of all students.

5) How should the state respond to financial difficulties at public and private hospitals?
Many of our public and private hospitals are facing financial issues due to under-reimbursements and the rising costs of quality health care. Due to our slowing economic times, we need to find creative and cost-effective ways to address our struggling hospitals and the issues they face. More funding and emphasis on health preventive education would be an avenue to consider.

6) What is the No. 1 quality-of-life issue facing Hawai'i, and what would you do about it?
The cost of living in Hawaii have driven long-time residents and talented young people to pick up and leave our islands. With our economy in the current state it is in, we need to find multiple and creative ways to help residents make the most of their paychecks. One way would be to consider a possible reduction in the general excise tax on necessity items such as food and medical.

7) What’s the No. 1 piece of legislation you’d work to pass in 2009?
I believe in being accountable and accessible to the residents of the district. My biggest priority would be to make sure that our community of Waipahu has its needs heard, help find solutions and continue meaningful work started by the previous representative. I will work to make sure that our communities are safe, schools' needs are addressed, and job opportunities are available for all.