(BIVN) – Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim opened the first public meeting on the volcanic eruption in Leilani Estates, addressing the large crowd gathered at the Pahoa High School cafeteria.

Many in attendance were residents of the now-evacuated subdivisions of Leilani and Lanipuna Gardens.

Just over a week ago, Mayor Kim was medevaced to an Oahu hospital as a precaution due to chest pains. He returned to Hilo – and his job, at least partially – on Sunday, April 29.

“We have only one mission,” the mayor told the crowd, “and that is to do the best we can to help you go through this.”

Kahu Piilani Kaawaloa, who has provided spiritual and cultural support for the community during past eruptions, offered an opening pule.

Civil Defense administrator Talmadge Magno also spoke, and served as the MC for the remainder of the evening.

Big Island Video News will be posting the presentations made by the different departments.