As part of DHLM’s leadership team, Jenn Ontai works behind the scenes to help move some of the City’s most important real estate transactions forward—supporting everything from affordable housing development to interdepartmental land use.
Managing the City’s Land Assets
At the Department of Housing and Land Management, much of the work to advance housing and land use priorities begins long before construction. It starts with the strategic acquisition, leasing, and management of land.
That’s where Jenn Ontai plays a key role.
“I assist with all types of real estate transactions involving the City,” Jenn explains, “whether it’s purchasing land that can be used to develop affordable housing or leasing office space for another City department.”
Her work helps lay the foundation for projects that directly impact the community—ensuring the City’s land assets are used effectively and with purpose.
A Transition to Public Service
Before joining DHLM in 2024, Jenn spent a decade in private practice as a transactional attorney.
“I enjoyed the work and my clients,” she says, “but I was ready for a new challenge.”
The opportunity to apply her legal background in a public service setting—particularly in a department focused on land and affordable housing—felt like a natural next step.
“It appealed to my analytical side and offered an opportunity to contribute my legal skills for the benefit of the community.”
Driven by Collaboration
For Jenn, one of the most rewarding aspects of her work is the people she works alongside.
“I truly enjoy the people I work with, and they motivate me to do my best every day,” she says.
Collaborating on complex projects with a strong, supportive team is what keeps her energized—even on the busiest days.
“Moving the needle forward together is incredibly rewarding.”
That team-oriented mindset is something she’s carried with her long before her career in law or public service.
“I played volleyball and basketball through high school,” she says, “so I tend to approach my work with teamwork and cooperation in mind.”
Advancing Transit-Oriented Development
Looking ahead, Jenn is especially encouraged by the progress DHLM is making on transit-oriented development (TOD) projects.
“I’m proud of the TOD projects prioritized by DHLM,” she says. “Once completed, I know these transformed areas will bring positive change and growth to our community for generations to come.”
These efforts represent a long-term investment in how communities grow—connecting housing, infrastructure, and opportunity.
Making a Difference at Home
At its core, Jenn sees her work as part of a broader effort to improve everyday life for Hawaiʻi residents.
“We all face the same daily inconveniences and high costs that come with living in paradise,” she says. “I hope my work helps make life easier in some way.”
That perspective keeps the work grounded in real-world impact.
For those considering a path in public service, Jenn emphasizes the importance of mindset.
“Having a good attitude will take you far.”
Life Outside of Work & Looking Ahead
Outside the office, Jenn enjoys spending time with her family—especially around the dinner table.
“We make it a point to eat dinner together as often as possible,” she says. “It helps keep us connected and gives us time to share the highs and lows of our day.”
She’s also a self-described foodie who enjoys trying new restaurants, along with discovering new music—especially hip hop, R&B, and K-pop.
Whether working through complex real estate transactions or helping move key housing projects forward, Jenn’s work is part of a larger effort to shape how Oʻahu grows.
And while much of that work happens behind the scenes, its impact is anything but invisible—supporting the homes, communities, and opportunities that will serve residents for generations to come.
