Mission

The Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience (OSCER) strives to lead the county by connecting, coordinating, and building capacity in our collective effort to sustain the health of our ʻāina and island community.

About

The Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience (OSCER) was established by Hawaiʻi County Council in 2023 to address sustainability, climate change, equity and resilience in the County through immediate, direct, and coordinated, trauma-informed action. OSCER is designed to coordinate and manage policies and programs to address sustainability, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and adapt to the impacts of climate change and other natural and human-caused hazards. 

Meet the Team

Bethany Morrison

Interim Administrator for OSCER

Bethany Morrison is the Interim Administrator for the County of Hawaiʻi Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience, as of February 1, 2024.  Prior to this recent appointment, she spent 16+ years in the Planning Department, most of that time serving as long-range planner and a project lead in the long-range planning division.  She supervised a team of planners and served as the project manager for the comprehensive update to the County’s General Plan and the Integrated Climate Action Plan.  In her managerial role, she supervises consultants, facilitates community meetings, evaluates various development plans, and engages in legislative advocacy.  Bethany has demonstrated leadership in collaborating with colleagues across Hawaiʻi and the pacific for over 15 years to address climate change mitigation and adaptation.  Bethany is a trained facilitator and public speaker and holds a bachelor’s degree in political science.  Finally, Bethany has a deep connection and commitment to our island community, having been raised here and having the privilege to also raise her family here.

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Join the Team!

County of Hawaiʻi Job Opportunities

Upcoming Events & Community Spotlight

Hawai‘i Island Community Health Center: FREE Healthcare Career Expo

Wednesday, November 22nd, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The FIRST Annual Healthcare Career Expo will be held at the Edith Kanaka‘ole Stadium, 350 Kalanikoa Street, Hilo! This FREE event features over 40 local healthcare employers with open positions. Explore job opportunities in medical assisting, customer service, nursing, and more. Speak with healthcare professionals to learn about training and benefits available in this high-demand field.

‘Aha Makahiki - Free Community Celebration

Saturday, January 11, 2025

The first annual ‘Aha Makahiki celebration will take place in Paʻauilo, Hāmākua! This free community event will feature traditional Makahiki games, educational activities, delicious food, ‘awa, and a hukihuki competition. Celebrate with the whole ‘ohana! Stay tuned for more details as the date approaches. Lonoikamakahiki!

Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival

Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Celebrate the annual cherry blossom season at Church Row Park! This FREE festival honors the historic blooming of cherry trees with hands-on activities, including bonsai demonstrations, traditional tea ceremonies, bon dancing, and more! Enjoy delicious local food, craft vendors, and live performances throughout the day. The 2025 festival also honors Ruth Dick, a cherished Waimea Bonsai Club member. Don't miss this cultural celebration of heritage and community!