State Rep. Ezra Kanoho, a Democrat who has represented Kaua'i in the House for nearly two decades, has announced he will not run for re-election this year.

Kanoho, D-15th (Lihu'e, Koloa), the chairman of the House Water, Land Use and Ocean Resources Committee, has been a steady voice on environmental and Native Hawaiian issues.

"I just felt it was time to move on," said Kanoho, who wants to spend more time with his family and stay involved in his community.

"For me, as with everyone else, it has to be a meaningful contribution to the community."

Kanoho, who is retired from GTE Hawaiian Tel, was appointed to the House in December 1986 by Gov. John Waihee to replace Alfred Lardizabal, who had taken a position in the Waihee administration.

House Speaker Calvin Say, D-20th (St. Louis Heights, Palolo, Wilhelmina Rise), said Kanoho's contribution has been "invaluable with his knowledge and understanding of state government."

"He's also contributed greatly with his background in the business community," Say said.