Ige ‘race to the finish’ with a to-do list

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Gov. David Ige says he has a sense of urgency as he tries to get the last things done in his final 48 days on the job.

In a one-on-one interview in Washington Place, Governor Ige told Hawaii News that he has a lot on his to-do list for the next seven weeks.

“We are going to finish,” said Ige.

“It seems like every week it gets faster and faster and faster until December 5th,” he said.

In the latest controversy, Ige is trying to build a traditional construction model instead of a public-private partnership for a $350 million stadium in Halawa.

“The University of Hawaii needs a commitment to a new stadium to maintain its Division 1 status,” Ige said.

His administration is trying to finalize a proposed $35 million Hawaii Tourism Authority marketing contract between Hawaii Visitors Bureau and the Hawaii Convention and Development Council.

“We want to make sure that we can execute and close the deal in a manner that complies with the law,” Ige said.

Both projects will have an impact in Hawaii for years to come.

Hawaii News Now asked why his administration is rushing the projects as the new governor takes over.

“We are definitely committed to work every day until December 5 and serve the people and society,” said Ige.

Ige says he’s not worried that Lt. Gov. Josh Green, the frontrunner in the governor’s race, will suddenly change course on stadium or tourism marketing projects.

His administration must complete $300 in checks that have been delayed due to supply chain problems, and he is working on raising nearly 9,000 veteran teachers. Payments are expected next month.

“Make sure we pay teachers what they truly deserve,” Ige said.

The next governor will be sworn in on December 5 at noon.

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