County of Hawaiʻi
The County of Hawaiʻi is the local governing body responsible for administering the Big Island of Hawaiʻi, the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago. Headquartered in Hilo, Hawaii, the county government provides essential public services, infrastructure management, and community development initiatives to support the island’s over 200,000 residents.
Governance & Administration
The County of Hawaiʻi operates under a Mayor-Council system, with Mayor Mitch Roth currently serving as the county's chief executive. The Hawaiʻi County Council, consisting of nine elected members, oversees legislative functions, including policymaking, budget allocation, and community planning.
Key Government Services
The county is responsible for a wide range of public services and infrastructure management, ensuring the well-being of its residents and the sustainable development of the island.
Public Safety & Emergency Services
- Hawaiʻi Police Department – Law enforcement, crime prevention, and public safety programs.
- Hawaiʻi Fire Department – Fire suppression, emergency medical response, and disaster management.
- Emergency Management Agency – Natural disaster preparedness and coordination of emergency response efforts.
Infrastructure & Transportation
- Road Maintenance Division – Construction and maintenance of over 1,000 miles of county roads.
- Mass Transit Agency – Operates the Hele-On Bus, serving 30+ routes across the island.
- Water Supply Department – Ensures clean drinking water access for residential and commercial use.
Community & Environmental Services
- Parks & Recreation Department – Manages over 100 parks, beaches, and recreational facilities.
- Housing Agency – Oversees public housing programs and affordable housing initiatives.
- Solid Waste Division – Manages waste disposal and recycling programs, serving multiple transfer stations across the island.
- Environmental Management Division – Focuses on sustainability initiatives, water conservation, and climate resilience efforts.
Economic Development & Tourism
- Tourism is the largest economic driver, contributing over $2 billion annually to the local economy.
- The county promotes agriculture, renewable energy, and technology industries to diversify economic growth.
- Investment in infrastructure projects has increased, including improvements to airports, highways, and harbor facilities.
Sustainability & Climate Initiatives
The County of Hawaiʻi is committed to environmental conservation and sustainability, with active programs focusing on:
- Renewable Energy Transition – Goal to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2045.
- Coastal Protection & Climate Resilience – Initiatives to address rising sea levels and climate change impacts.
- Waste Reduction & Recycling – Community engagement programs to reduce waste sent to landfills.
Future Plans & Strategic Goals
The Hawaiʻi County General Plan outlines strategic goals for the next decade, including:
- Affordable Housing Expansion – Developing more housing units to address the growing population.
- Smart Transportation Upgrades – Expanding public transit and road networks for improved mobility.
- Sustainable Tourism Management – Implementing policies to balance economic benefits with environmental preservation.
With a focus on public service excellence, sustainability, and infrastructure development, the County of Hawaiʻi continues to drive progress for the island’s residents while preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
