Schatz adds Big Isle liaisons

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz has two new field representatives, George “Robby” Robertson and Michael Zola. They will join Marlena Castro Dixon as regional liaisons for Hawaii Island.

Robertson was born and raised on Oahu, moving to Hawaii Island in 1972. He served as Hawaiian Home Lands Commissioner and managed family lands in the North Hilo district, which became the first increment of the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge. He attended the University of California, and moved on to receive a graduate degree in political science from the University of Hawaii. Robertson will represent Sen. Schatz and conduct outreach to communities between Kona and South Point.

Michael Zola has practiced law on the Big Island since 1981. He is active in the community and a former president of the Rotary Club of Kona. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison and earned his law degree at Columbia Law School. Zola will serve as the field representative for the communities from Waikoloa to Hawi to Waimea.

Dixon serves the eastern part of the island, from Ka‘u to Hamakua.

“The Big Island is experiencing significant growth. Due to that growth, my office determined that we need more than two field representatives in order to represent the people of Hawaii to the best of our abilities,” Schatz said. “I am proud to announce that we are taking the unprecedented step of hiring three field representatives for the Big Island who will bridge the gap between Washington and the people of Hawaii. Robby and Michael are proven leaders, and together with Marlena Castro Dixon, their broad bases of knowledge and involvement will ensure that Hawaii families’ voices are heard so I can make the best decisions for the community.”