A legislative panel has recommended that the state Senate approve Gov. David Ige’s nominees to lead the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands.

The Senate Committee on Hawaiian Affairs on Monday approved Jobie Masagatani to remain as the department’s director and chairwoman of the Hawaiian Homes Commission, over the opposition of some key groups that represent Native Hawaiians. Masagatani has been serving in the role since 2012.

The panel also approved William Aila, who until recently was chairman of the Department of Land and Natural Resources, to be her deputy director.

Both nominations now go to the full Senate.

The department administers programs designed to help Native Hawaiians with land, housing and finances, but there are more than 26,000 people on a waiting list for land leases.

Masagatani said one of her top priorities would be to secure more funding for the department.

"I think the vision for DHHL … is to have sufficient funds, both from the Legislature as well as our own resources, to be able to develop and deliver the lands in a way that is consistent and reliable for our beneficiaries," Masagatani said.

Opponents said Masagatani has been unwilling to work out differences with various stakeholder groups.

"Our plea to you is that you look and really consider how much these people understand about the Hawaii Homes Commission Act," said Michelle Kauhane, president and CEO of the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement. "We have seen little improvement or willingness on behalf of Ms. Masagatani to work together."

Kauhane said she was hopeful that including Aila in the leadership would improve the department.

The department held about 180 community meetings over the last two years and only a fraction of those were required by law, Masagatani said. Bringing on Aila will help the department meet with other groups, she said.

"Those that might not appreciate my style of leadership or might not appreciate what I’m trying to accomplish and find that they’re better able to communicate with Mr. Aila, that’s actually great. That’s actually wonderful," Masagatani said. "I think it’s going to help us make sure there’s open doors."

Supporters said Masagatani has done her best to collaborate and has made progress after inheriting a department with a lot of problems.

"I’m very impressed with Jobie," said Aila, who has been serving as her deputy on an interim basis. "Her honesty, her finesse, her strategic thinking."

The department needs continuous leadership to make positive changes, her supporters said.