Mitch Roth sworn in as Hawaii County mayor, vows COVID vigilance and focus on housing and transparency

Mitch Roth was sworn in as mayor of Hawaii County and in remarks after his oath pledged to prioritize pandemic safety, affordable housing, infrastructure and more transparent, community-centered government.

Roth took the oath administered by Judge Robert Kim and thanked his family, campaign team and the island communities of Hilo and Kona. He said he will ‘‘support and defend’’ the U.S. and State of Hawaii constitutions as he begins his term.

Roth told viewers the county must remain vigilant against COVID-19: "We need to do things like wear masks, practice social distancing ... that is all of our kuleana," he said, praising the county's "safe travels" program as a contributor to keeping the island's positivity rate low.

The mayor said his administration will work with the county council and staff to increase transparency and public engagement, and to pursue policies that make it possible for people to live and work on the island. He listed priorities including affordable housing, sound infrastructure and efficient government, and said sustainability for future generations will guide decisions.

Roth acknowledged trade-offs ahead, saying "we're not gonna get it right 100% of the time," but promised to "do everything we would for our own families" and to treat the island as one ohana.

The ceremony was held as a socially distanced, simultaneous broadcast between Hilo and the West Hawaii Civic Center in Kona. The inauguration included musical performances and an invocation prior to the oath. The mayor said he has begun discussions with council members and that his office will emphasize regular communication with the public as policies and programs are developed.