DURING THE Tuesday briefing, several lawmakers expressed disappointment over the HTA’s track record with procurement, especially for its top U.S. tourism contract, which is now heading toward a third solicitation.

Source: https://www.staradvertiser.com/2023/01/22/hawaii-news/senators-put-hawaii-tourism-authority-in-the-hot-seat-again/

However, Tokioka publicly called for a “timeout” on the Honolulu Star- Advertiser’s “Spotlight Hawaii” livestream program on June 23, saying that he did not recommend replacing the HTA’s top leader before the next legislative session starts.

Source: https://www.staradvertiser.com/2023/07/08/hawaii-news/governor-changes-hta-board-ahead-of-special-meeting/

Others noted that Tokioka’s role on the HTA board could create a conflict of interest given that he is HTA’s head of purchasing agency, a major role in state procurement.

Source: https://www.staradvertiser.com/2023/07/03/hawaii-news/hta-board-weighs-leadership-transition-amid-interference/