Mauna Kea Stewardship Oversight Authority to Host Community Talk Story in Kona

August 19, 2025

KONA, HAWAIʻI ISLAND — The Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority (MKSOA) will host a Community Talk Story in Kona on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, as part of its ongoing effort to engage residents across Hawaiʻi Island and gather public feedback on its strategic framework.

The event will take place from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the West Hawaii Civic Center and will also be livestreamed on YouTube.

Community members are invited to learn about MKSOA’s mission, provide input on stewardship priorities, and meet the Authority’s board members and staff. The session will include an overview of the Authority’s background, a discussion on the draft strategic framework, and a Q&A session.

“As we continue to build a model of stewardship that reflects the values and priorities of our island communities, it’s important to hear from as many community voices as possible,” said John DeFries, Executive Director of MKSOA. “We look forward to engaging with residents in meaningful dialogue.”

What:    MKSOA Community Talk Story – Kona
When:   Wednesday, August 27, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Where:  West Hawaii Civic Center, County Council Chambers, Bldg A, Room A,  74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy, Kailua- Kona, HI 96740
Watch Live:youtube.com/@MaunaKeaSOA

For more information and updates, follow @mksoa_mauna_kea on Instagram or contact mksoa.community@hawaii.gov.

 About MKSOA

Established by Act 255 (2022), the Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority is a state entity charged with managing the Mauna Kea lands held in trust for the benefit of the public. MKSOA is committed to a new, inclusive model of stewardship grounded in Native Hawaiian and scientific knowledge systems and guided by broad community input.