Aloha, my name is Blaine Kenji Bautista, and I am running for Hawaiʻi County Council to represent District 2. I am a proud native of Hilo and a graduate of Waiākea High School. My decision to run is grounded in reliability, approachability, and a strong commitment to family values and community service.

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My roots in Hilo run deep. My father, Joseph Bautista, was born and raised in Hilo and proudly served in the U.S. Army before dedicating his career to the County of Hawaiʻi, primarily with the Parks and Recreation Department. He was deeply involved in the community, coaching Hilo High School football and numerous youth basketball and baseball teams until his passing on November 10, 2017. My mother, Irene Bautista, born and raised in Honomu, devoted 39 years to caring for our community as an obstetrics nurse at Hilo Medical Center before retiring in 2017. Today, she enjoys retirement through travel, daily walks with our family dogs, and practicing Tai Chi.

I come from a close-knit family with one brother, Kevin, and three sisters - Michelle, Rochelle, and Jonelle.

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After graduating from Waiākea High School, I continued my education locally, earning an Associate of Science in Information Technology from Hawaiʻi Community College. I went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Computer Information Systems from Hawaiʻi Pacific University, followed by a Master of Business Administration with a focus on Information Systems from City University.

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Professionally, I currently serve as an Information Technology Specialist at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo under the State of Hawaiʻi, with career experience spanning the financial, healthcare, and education sectors.

Beyond my professional role, I am actively involved in numerous community committees and volunteer efforts, working closely with residents, local organizations, and campus partners to address real, day-to-day challenges. Whether through community service, mentorship, or collaborative problem-solving, I believe in being present, listening, and serving Hilo in meaningful ways.

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I am excited about the opportunity to serve District 2 and bring my local perspective, professional experience, and commitment to community into action on the Hawaiʻi County Council, like my slogan says “from Hilo, for Hilo”.