Recognizing Ernest "ernie" Lau And His Role In Protecting Hawaii's Water Supply And Establishing The "ernie Lau Water Protector Poster Contest".
In conjunction with the recognition of Mr. Lau's contributions, HR140 establishes the 'Ernie Lau Water Protector Poster Contest', aimed at involving elementary school students throughout Hawaii. This contest is designed to inspire young individuals to creatively engage with the topic of water conservation. By encouraging students to express their visions for protecting Hawaii’s water through art, the resolution looks to foster a culture of environmental responsibility and stewardship among future generations.
House Resolution 140 recognizes Ernest 'Ernie' Lau for his significant efforts in protecting Hawaii's water supply. The resolution highlights Lau's background as an engineer and his work as the chief engineer of the Board of Water Supply of the City and County of Honolulu. It acknowledges his unwavering advocacy against the threats posed by the Red Hill fuel storage facility, particularly its damaging leaks and spills, which have raised concerns about water safety statewide. Additionally, public support for Lau's leadership is emphasized, as seen through various expressions of gratitude in the community.
While the resolution mainly serves to honor Lau’s contributions without significant controversy, it reflects broader themes of water resource management and environmental protection in Hawaii. The emphasis on community engagement through educational initiatives posits a forward-thinking approach to environmental advocacy. However, discussions surrounding water safety and storage facilities like Red Hill remain contentious, especially regarding state and federal oversight of potential hazards that could threaten public resources.