What's Being Discussed

The Kona Soil and Water Conservation District (KSWCD) Board of Directors is holding its monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 3:00–5:00 PM in Kealakekua, Hawaiʻi. Key topics include:

• Financial update: The treasurer will share the district's current financial status.
• Grant programs: Updates on the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), including a possible grant extension, and a conservation grant connected to the Department of Defense.
• Partnership updates: News from the Hiki Ola program, including recent outreach events.
• Land use review: Updates on county subdivision and grading permit reviews.
• NRCS farm programs: Updates on federal Farm Bill programs, a local work group meeting, and the Kona Low Emergency Watershed Protection Program.
• Health insurance: An overview of ProService health insurance premiums for district staff.
• Board elections: Discussion of nominations for upcoming Board of Directors positions.
• Community funding: An update on the County Contingency Fund, connected to the Lions Club.
• Conference and summit recaps: Highlights from the HACD Conference and the Hawaii County Agrifood Regional Summit (July 14), plus a preview of the Island-wide Agrifood Summit on August 15.

Decisions Expected

• Approving June 2026 meeting minutes.
• Affirming continued accounting services provided by Debi Kokinos.
• Possible action on a no-cost extension for a technical assistance agreement.
• Moving forward on board member election or appointment nominations.

Who Should Pay Attention

• Farmers and landowners in the Kona area interested in conservation grants or Farm Bill programs.
• Residents near development areas affected by grading and subdivision projects.
• Anyone interested in local food systems or the upcoming Agrifood Summit.
• Community members who want to participate in board elections.