HBR's Mayors Forum 2025

Friday, April 11, 2025

The Hawaii Business Roundtable held its biannual meeting with the Council of Mayors, featuring Mayor Blangiardi, Mayor Kawakami, and marking our first meeting with Hawaii Island Mayor Kimo Alameda. Although Mayor Bissen was unable to attend, Ms. Laksmi M. Abraham, Director of Communications and Government Affairs, participated on his behalf.

Panel Table from Left to right: Mayor Derek Kawakami, Mayor Rick Blangiardi, Maui County Director of Communications and Government Affairs Laksmi M. Abraham, Mayor Alameda, and Carl Bonham of UHERO.

Held during the final weeks of the 2025 Legislative Session, the meeting provided a valuable opportunity to discuss key legislation impacting both the Counties and HBR. Carl Bonham from UHERO delivered a brief presentation on the economic effects of tariffs, followed by updates from each mayor on legislative priorities and issues within their counties, including housing and the effects of short-term rentals.

The meeting was a success, with overwhelmingly positive feedback. We look forward to our continued collaboration and to scheduling the next session to advance Hawaii’s economic future together.