HONOLULU (KHON2) — Honolulu’s Ocean Safety Department now has its first permanent chief. After a highly public and at times tense selection process, the Ocean Safety Commission voted unanimously to appoint Kurt Lager to guide the newly formed department forward.
After months of deliberations and community input, the Ocean Safety Commission made their decision. The vote was unanimous, but commissioners say it was anything but easy.
Interim Chief Kurt Lager to officially lead Ocean Safety
“It isn’t about just becoming the chief. It’s about every single person. It’s about the public safety. It’s about the guards that are at the beach. It’s about the city department,” said Kanani Oury, Ocean Safety Commission member.
Commissioners said they weighed testimony from lifeguards, community members and city leaders, evaluating three qualified candidates…