002: Day 1: KEYNOTE: Opening Remarks with Richard Bissen, Mayor of Maui

How to Disaster

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

Episode Description:

“Nothing else mattered more than helping our people… Together, we have the chance to not only rebuild, but to do so in a way that honors our past, supports our present, and secures a resilient future.” —Honorable Richard Bissen

The August 2023 Maui wildfire is considered the deadliest wildfire incident in the U.S. in over a century. It ravaged over 10 square miles, destroying 2,200 structures and severely impacting the island's native forests, grasslands, and historic sites. This catastrophic event has left the community grappling with immense challenges, from rebuilding infrastructure to preserving their rich cultural heritage.

Maui Mayor Richard Bissen has been a steadfast leader in Maui's recovery efforts, drawing upon his extensive experience in disaster management and community engagement. Under his guidance, the island is exploring innovative strategies to address the unique cultural, economic, and environmental complexities that have arisen in the wake of the wildfire.

Tune in as Mayor Bissen offers a glimpse into the extraordinary challenges faced by the Maui community, their unwavering commitment to rebuilding with respect for their cultural heritage, and the visionary approaches they are employing to create a more sustainable and resilient future for the island.

Connect with After The Fire USA:

• Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 02:28 Goal: Return the People to Their Lands
• 06:53 Challenges in Recovery
• 10:10 Balancing Economy and Mourning: A Bench Mark to Healing

👨🏻‍💼Meet Honorable Richard T. Bissen Jr.

Honorable Richard T. Bissen Jr. is the current Mayor of Maui County, having assumed office in January 2023. Prior to his mayoral role, he served as a judge in the Second Circuit Court of Hawaii from 2005 to 2021. Appointed by Governor Linda Lingle and later reappointed by Governor David Ige, Judge Bissen held a distinguished legal career before entering public service.

Born on February 28, 1962, Mayor Bissen holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. His career also includes roles as the interim director for the State of Hawaii Department of Public Safety and as the first deputy attorney general for the state.

As mayor, Bissen has faced significant challenges, including leading the recovery efforts following the devastating wildfires in Maui in August 2023. He is committed to supporting the community and guiding the island through this difficult time.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/honorable-richard-t-bissen-a6a34a266/

Connect with the Government of Maui:

• Website: https://www.mauicounty.gov/