Isaac Choy

Party: Democratic

Age: 56

Job: CPA, Manoa Consulting Group LLC CPAs.

Born in Tokyo, Japan. In Hawaii since 1961, arrived from Japan

Lives: Manoa

Contact: 988-8511, iwc@friendsforisaacchoy.com

Job history past 10 years:
CPA, Manoa Consulting Group LLC CPAs.

Ever run for public office? When? Outcome?
No.

Other civic experience or community service:
Treasurer Malama O Manoa. Treasurer Honolulu Community Action Program. 2005-2007 Hawaii State Tax Review Commission (Chair). Past Treasurer Noelani Elementary School PTA.

Anything else you'd like voters to know about you?
As an accountant and small business owner for over twenty five years, I understand the importance of the partnership between business, labor, government and the community for the well being of our state.

1) Why are you running for office?
Public office gives one a unique opportunity to effect changes to better people's lives. I feel that my professional and personal experiences can contribute to improving our community and state.

2) With state revenue growth slowing, what are your top three priorities for government spending?
This question indicates that spending is a function of revenue when it should be a function of planning. If there are no plans then I would give priority to our human resources. Perhaps long term financing alternatives could be used for CIP projects. Estimating future revenue trends given our current tax structure will determine spending priorities.

3) What steps should the state take to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuel?
In order to reduce dependence you must reduce consumption. To reduce consumption you must change your lifestyle. Alternatives to fossil fuel should encouraged and supported this would include wind, sun, nuclear, ocean current and other alternatives.

4) What's the No. 1 thing needed to improve Hawai'i public schools?
Whether you want to improve test scores or make better people, teachers are the key to success. Supporting teachers will make the greatest immediate impact in improving our public school.

5) How should the state respond to financial difficulties at public and private hospitals?
Find either private or public management teams that can provide services within the parameters set by the state. If this cannot be done my option will be quality rather then quantity.

6) What is the No. 1 quality-of-life issue facing Hawai'i, and what would you do about it?
The high cost of housing is causing a lot of family to work multiple jobs to survive. I would consider incentives for housing developments with mixed use and affordable housing requirements.

7) What's the No. 1 piece of legislation you'd work to pass in 2009?
Accountability legislation for certain income taxes credits and get tax exemptions.