HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Tourism officials briefed lawmakers Wednesday on the management and marketing of Hawaii's largest industry, focusing on sustainability and cultural preservation.
The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA), along with various contractors and subcontractors, handles different aspects of the hospitality sector.
Sen. Lynn DeCoite, chair of the tourism committee, emphasized the need for clarity regarding responsibilities among the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB), HTA, and the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (CNHA).
"I am just trying to get a grip on who’s on first base, who’s on second base, and who’s on home plate while understanding our focus," she said.
The HTA oversees all tourism efforts with a budget of approximately $63 million.
Mufi Hannemann, chairman of the HTA, noted, "Instructions are very clear from the executive branch that, as we are mindful of the fiscal situation with the state, we should ask for what we need and be sure that we can defend it."
The president of the HVCB also addressed lawmakers, discussing a nearly $40 million brand management and marketing contract.
Additionally, the CEO and administrator of the CNHA presented details about their organization’s nearly $30 million stewardship-related contract.