REP PC 002 2021/01/19 (2020-2022)

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PC-2 Page 2 January 19, 2021 Jeff Darrow, Deputy Director of Planning, addressed concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest. He said that he will take over on any project they may appear to be in conflict of interest. Mr. Kern then spoke about his experience growing up in Hawaii Island and on his experience as a planning consultant. He stressed the importance of practicing ethics, and that he will not be involved in any projects with former clients. He noted that there will be many people involved with his work and reiterated that Mr. Darrow will take up any work related to his former clients and business. Mr. Kern also referred to his 20 years of experience as a planning consultant, and how his actions and experience qualifies him for the Planning Director position. Council Chair Maile David brought up that qualifications and requirements from other counties' charters, and the distinction between public service and working in the private sector. She did not view Mr. Kern's time in public service as adequate administrative capacity. Renee Schoen, Assistant Corporation Counsel, was asked by Committee Chair Ashley Kierkiewicz to provide definition on administrative capacity. Ms. Schoen read from the Charter that "No less than three years of experience shall have been in an administrative capacity." She further explained that there is no definition regarding "administrative capacity" in the Charter or Code and urged Committee Members not to add language to the Charter. Several Committee Members held firmly to their personal interpretation of the Charter requirements for the position and did not view Mr. Kern qualified for the position. They had expressed their view that despite having over 20 years of planning experience, Mr. Kern did not hold three years of administrative capacity per the Charter. Committee Member Heather Kimball stated that she did not see the required training on his resume. Mr. Kern replied that he has attended many training courses throughout the year and considers his actions and experience as training as well. Committee Member Rebecca Villegas said that the administration is trying to overcompensate by having Human Resources and Corporation Counsel express their view that Mr. Kern is qualified, and that this process gives her a"sore tummy." Other Committee Members recognized Mr. Kern's experience and accomplishments, and voiced their support for him. Committee Members Sue Lee Loy and Tim Richards noted their appreciation that Mr. Darrow came out of retirement and his 20 years of experience in the Planning Department. Mr. Richards asked Mr. Kern what his view was on affordable housing, to which Mr. Kern said that he was a proponent. Committee Member Aaron Chung inquired on whether Mr. Kern donated to Ms. Villegas's opponent, and if he did, then would he be able to treat Ms. Villegas fairly. Mr. Kern confirmed that he had donated to her opponent but he would treat every Committee Member fairly. Mr. Chung also mentioned that while Mr. Kern was on the Planning Commission he had voted against a constituent's project, but that constituent still supports Mr. Kern's nomination. Mr. Richards said Mr. Kern has the necessary credentials, and he respects the nomination of the Mayor. Chair Kierkiewicz asked him several questions regarding Recovery Team priorities, short-term vacation rentals, and current community engagement within the Planning Department, to which Mr. Kern shared his vision and solutions for the department. Ms. Kierkiewicz noted that there are many checks and balances in place to PC Report No.: 2