Hawai’i County names Malia Kekai as deputy director of Public Works

The County of Hawaiʻi has appointed Malia Kekai as deputy director for the Department of Public Works, effective immediately.

Kekai has worked for the County of Hawaiʻi since 2016 as a deputy corporation counsel.  She brings with her excellent institutional knowledge and a wealth of experience in County operations, policies and procedures. During her time with the County, she has advised numerous departments, boards and commissions.

“We’re excited to bring Malia on as Deputy of our Department of Public Works as we continue to strive towards a thriving Hawaiʻi Island,” Hawaiʻi County Mayor Mitch Roth said. “She has proven herself a vital asset to our Corporation Counsel, and we know she will continue to bring a balanced, thoughtful and, most importantly, local perspective to her new position in Public Works.”

Kekai was born and raised on Maui and graduated from Maui High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa in Communications and Hawaiian Studies.  She received her Juris Doctor degree from Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles, Calif.