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In Memoriam: Riley Saito
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the sudden passing of NELHA’s Executive Director Riley Saito. Riley brought vision and dedication to his work at HOST Park and to the Kona community. His commitment to advancing Hawai‘i’s sustainable future shaped much of his life’s work.

During his leadership, Riley was a tireless champion for clean, renewable energy, consistently engaging with community and government partners. He also ensured that modern scientific progress remained deeply rooted in traditional Hawaiian knowledge.

He contributed to closer ties between the administration and the community by engaging with tenants and gaining insight into their operations and technologies.

Before leading NELHA, Riley served as the Energy Specialist and Assistant Deputy Director for the County of Hawaii’s Department of Research and Development. His landmark achievements included establishing the Pacific Hydrogen Alliance to deploy clean hydrogen solutions and spearheading the transition of the County’s bus fleet to zero-emission technologies.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, he played a critical role on the County’s mitigation team, helping to deliver over $44 million in CARES Act funding to families and small businesses in need. He also served on the frontline at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport as part of the Safe Travels arrival team.

Riley’s impact rippled through every facet of the community. From his early career as vice president at Mauna Lani Resort to his decade of service as treasurer for the Friends of NELHA, he was a man who led with both his intellect and his heart.

Riley was also a past president of the Big Island Group, a two-term Kailua-Kona Village Design Commissioner, and a dedicated member of Cornerstone Christian Fellowship where he served as an accompanist. He had a love for writing and playing music, and he frequently shared his songs with the staff.

Riley brought thoughtful strategic insight and genuine kindness to his work and mentorship. His contributions have supported ongoing efforts toward a more sustainable, self-sufficient Hawai‘i, a legacy that will continue to have an impact.