Yesterday, the Hawaiʻi County Council adopted Resolution No. 429-25 honoring the life, leadership, and public service of Fire Chief Kazuo Todd, who passed away unexpectedly on December 14, 2025.

The resolution expressed the Council’s profound condolences to Chief Todd’s ʻohana, loved ones, and colleagues, and recognized his more than two decades of dedicated service to the people of Hawaiʻi County and the State of Hawaiʻi.

Chief Todd served as Hawaiʻi County Fire Chief and as Chair of the State Fire Council, where he played a critical role in strengthening fire safety, preparedness, and coordination statewide.

Council Chair Holeka Goro Inaba reflected on Chief Todd’s legacy, stating, “Chief Todd led with humility, compassion, and an unwavering sense of duty. He understood the weight of responsibility that comes with protecting lives, and he carried that responsibility with integrity and care for both the public and the firefighters he served alongside.”

Council Member Heather Kimball, who co-introduced the resolution, also shared her reflections. “Chief Todd exemplified public service at its very best,” Kimball said. “He was a thoughtful leader who cared deeply about the people he served and the firefighters he led. His passing is a tremendous loss to our county and to the fire service statewide.”

During the meeting, the Council acknowledged Chief Todd’s advocacy for firefighters and the emotional weight of leadership he carried, particularly during a period of increased fire activity in the County.

Public testimony further underscored the lasting impact of his leadership. Rachel Able, who testified in writing, shared how Chief Todd responded with compassion and action following the loss of her daughter. She credited his leadership with helping bring about the blessing of the Kohanaiki lifeguard stand in June 2025, an outcome that continues to protect lives today.

In closing, the Council recognized that Chief Todd’s legacy extends beyond emergencies met and lives saved, to the culture of readiness, trust, and service he helped build over years of dedication.

 

Photo credit: Office of Mayor Kimo Alameda