Board of Directors

Jerry Eschbaugh

President

Term: 12/2025 to 12/2027

We moved to Fern Forest 6 years ago, from Colorado to live off grid and unplug from the rat race! My father taught me the air conditioning and heating trade. Since then, I’ve been involved in construction in various forms my whole life. I ran a small air-conditioning and heating service company for decades. This is where I learned to communicate with people at the next level. I also ran a fashion photography studio for many years. I shot for top modeling agencies, which provided an outlet for my creative side.

I’m a firm believer in community collaboration. I believe when a community comes together, we can achieve great things! I look forward to serving this community as president. I will serve with honest, fully transparent integrity.

Dana Dorsey

Treasurer

Term: 12/2025 to 12/2027

I have lived in Fern Forest since 2020. I am originally from Oʻahu and currently studying public health and gerontology at New Mexico State University. My background includes working in food and domestic services in my youth then employed as an EA/substitute teacher at the Hawaiʻi School for the Deaf and the Blind and most recently serving as a family caregiver. These experiences have shaped my commitment to service, responsibility, and showing up for others.

I value transparency, clear communication, and accountability, and I take my role on the board seriously. While I am continuing to learn, I am committed to doing the work carefully, asking questions when needed, and making sure the association’s finances are handled thoughtfully and openly. I believe strong communities are built through trust and participation, and I look forward to serving Fern Forest. When I am not studying or volunteering, you can usually find me tending to my chickens or experimenting in the kitchen.

Leimomi Shearer

Secretary

Term: 12/2025 to 12/2027

I am Kanaka maoli (Hawaiian blood. Hawaiian born). Raised my four children in Hilo: oldest retired Army, married and father of two living on O’ahu. My second lives in Waikahekahe (Paradise Park), is a mother of three, married, and is a social worker. My third child and her husband live in Texas. She is active in all things Hawaiian. My fourth child is a career Coast Guard, recently was abroad in Bahrain and is currently stationed on O’ahu, and father of one.
I mention my children because they are my greatest accomplishments. That and being married to the same man for 40 years.

I lived in this forest for 10 years and a year ago bought my property on Makoa. I currently serve as President of Volcano Friends Feeding Friends, a nonprofit. Our mission is, “In
Aloha, our mission is to Nourish the Physical, Spiritual and Mental Wellbeing of Nā Po’e.”
Graduated from UH Hilo, worked as a Hawai’i County Council Aid, a Paralegal, a Receptionist, and a Cancer Program Manager. I bring many skills to this Board. First and foremost, as a Kanaka who strives to be in Aloha.

Leslie Leber

Board Member At-Large

Term: 12/2024 to 12/2026

I am a U.S. Navy Veteran. Through my military service and other employment I have gained skills in preventative maintenance, repair, computers, etc. I also learned to treat people with respect, regardless of a difference in point of view, to better enable both sided empathies and come to a common understanding. I grew up in the country and understand rural concerns. I purchased my property 5 years ago and have continued to improve that, my neighbor relations, and roadside management along Makoa when able. I want to live in a community that fosters a healthy environment for my family to grow and feel proud of. I believe that is what most people want. I am offering my services to help achieve that goal.