Machado steps down as OHA chairperson

Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee Colette Machado announced Tuesday that she would step down as chairperson of the nine-member board when the new panel takes office in December.

In a written statement, Machado said she was stepping down after "much thought and consideration" but didn’t cite a reason. 

"I am grateful for the opportunity to serve our people in this capacity for the past four years," she said. 

"I would like to thank the community and my fellow trustees for supporting me. Together we have accomplished much."

Four incumbents who faced election this year retained their seats while one newcomer, Lei Ahu Isa, principal broker at Hilton Grand Vacations Club Hawaii, won a spot on the board.

The trustees as a group will select a new leader.