From the start, the efforts of the Hawai'i 2050 Sustainability Task Force have been designed to be community centered and transparent — that's part of what makes this effort most promising.

A broad range of input is key, considering the goal: to come up with a draft blueprint that will determine a preferred future for the Islands. That includes sensible development, preserving our environment and natural resources, ensuring a vibrant economy and more.

This is not something that can be left to government to decide. It will take a collective effort — one that includes input from our youth, businesses, families and more.

Perhaps the most important component going forward will be the Sustainability Council, a panel of citizens charged with making sure these goals are met. It's up to the council, working with the Legislature, the private sector and others, to ensure the plan does more than just sit on a shelf.

So it's encouraging to know that the public will have the opportunity to comment on how the council is selected and help decide who should be a part of it.

The task force is currently recommending a panel of 15 people. The four mayors of each county will get one appointment each; the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and the governor also will each receive an appointment.

The remaining nine will come from the community: You can nominate yourself or someone you know. Those names will go to the governor, who will select the nine. And all appointments will need confirmation from the state Senate in a public venue.

The selection of the council will be outlined in the draft plan, set to be unveiled at the Sustainability Summit on Sept. 22. The public is encouraged to comment on the process as well as the overall sustainability plan.

So share your opinions and be part of the process. Hawai'i's future is too precious to sit idly and let others deal the cards.