Hilo, Hawaiʻi – The Hawaiʻi County Council has taken the first step towards renaming Kaumana Lani Park to “Yet Sung Chang Park,” a move to honor the community member who selflessly donated the land for the park. Bill 58, which proposes this change, passed its first reading at the Council meeting on July 9, 2025, with a unanimous 9-0 vote.
The proposed renaming is a tribute to Yet Sung Chang, who was born in Hilo in 1909 and passed away in his hometown on July 21, 2002, at the age of 96. Mr. Chang and his wife, Josephine Sui Fook Chang, both graduates of Hilo High School, donated approximately 4.7 acres of land for what is now Kaumana Lani Park. This generous donation, intended for “a public park, playground and/or other recreational use,” was formally accepted by the County via Resolution No. 197 on December 14, 1977. The park is located on Hokulani Street in the South Hilo District.
Yet Sung Chang was described as a devoted community member who deeply understood the value of recreational opportunities for promoting a healthy and active lifestyle, and he strongly believed in the values of hard work. He dedicated many years to serving as the head of his neighborhood Kumiai in Kaumana. Professionally, he worked at Hilo Transportation and Terminal Company, a hauling company established after the devastating tsunami of 1946 impacted the train tracks.
Mr. Chang is remembered by his family, friends, and community as a fair and community-minded leader. The renaming of the park aims to permanently recognize his significant contribution to the recreational resources of the Kaumana community.
Bill 58 now proceeds to its second reading, where it will undergo further consideration by the Council before final approval.