Former Maui Public Works Director Charles Jencks has been appointed by Gov. Linda Lingle to serve on the state Land Use Commission.

Jencks replaces Ransom “Randy” Piltz, who resigned to run for mayor of Maui. The remaining terms runs through June 30, 2011.

“I appreciate Charlie stepping in to assume this important responsibility in the State’s land-use decision making process,” said Lingle.  “I worked closely with Charlie when I was mayor of Maui County as well as over the past eight years as governor. I know first-hand of Charlie’s’ extensive experience in planning and development, his understanding of protecting agricultural and conservation lands, and his sensitivity to the community and native Hawaiian cultural land practices.  He will be an excellent addition to the Land Use Commission.”

Jencks was director of the Maui County Department of Public Works and Waste Management from 1991 to 2000.  He is a partner with Second & Peck Real Estate, LLC, and is also the owner’s representative for Honua‘ula Partners, LLC, which is developing the Honua‘ula project in South Maui.