School crossing advocate praised for diligence

The Land Use Commission’s decision confirming the DOE’s obligation to provide a grade-separated student passage before opening Kihei high school warrants kudos and congratulations to those who worked so diligently on behalf of the community to ensure the safety of future Kihei high school students.

Certainly, among them are members of the Kihei Community Association and select public officials. But perhaps no one is more deserving of community recognition and appreciation than Kihei resident Andrew Beerer.

His dedication to this just cause, his commitment of time and effort through many years, and his objective rational presentation of the community’s interests and expectations before informational meetings, public hearings and the media proved significant in providing the LUC perspectives foundational to its ruling.

But perhaps Beerer’s greater contribution has been less discernible: the way he conducted his leadership role in this successful endeavor. With a laudable sense of service above self, he stepped forward in challenging a formidable state bureaucracy’s reticence, if not overt resistance, to do what it promised, to do what was right.

By example, he motivated others to embrace the effort. While staunchly committed to the cause, he remained objective and open to constructive solutions, countering proposals potentially compromising student safety, but without offense to those proffering them. His manner, tenor and tone during public testimony were always civil and respectful.

In a time of caustic confrontational public discourse nationally, Mr. Beerer demonstrates that cooperative, collegial and respectful leadership can be successful. Aspiring civic leaders might emulate this approach.

Tom Sams Kihei