REP PSMTC 024 2016/10/19 (2014-2016)

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PSMTC-24 Page 2 October 19. 2016 Mr. Kanuha urged support for this nomination, as Ms. Payesko is his constituent. He appreciates her willingness to volunteer for these positions, as he knows that it is extremely difficult to take time to come out and decide or advise on issues that face our community, along with having a family, many friends and full-time job. Although, she may not have fire experience, Mr. Kanuha shared confidence that Ms. Payesko will learn what she needs to know to be an effective and productive member of the Fire Commission. Mr. Kanuha appreciated Ms. Payesko for being present and hearing the testimonies presented earlier. Moving forward, Mr. Kanuha concluded that our Boards and Commissions have not been able to meet due to lack of quorum. Thus, very glad to support nomination and urge rest of the council to support nomination and move forward with a positive recommendation. Ms. Poindexter reminded the public should Your Committee not act on this matter, the nominee will automatically be approved, pursuant to the Hawai`i County Charter Section 13-4(1). Ms. Poindexter also extended appreciation to Ms. Payesko for her willingness to serve. Ms. Payesko responded with appreciation and that she will do the best of her ability. Ms. Wille shared that even though the mayor can nominate, it is the Council who approves so don't want this to be looked at as a rubber stamp and think some is more timid then perhaps she had something personal. Ms. Wille believes it should be balanced like planning, culture and environment, and strongly encouraged pubic to reach out to your respective elected officials more. If there is someone in particular that should need to bring up to brought up to the respective councilmembers. In regards to Ms. Payesko specifically, Ms. Wille inquired as to why first choice is Committee on Aging with Fire Commission as second choice. Ms. Payesko answered that she honestly has the desire to serve the best she can; she is an elder law attorney and desires strongly in serving community she lives in. Ms. Payesko continued that she appreciates the ocean safety division, but it is really a matter of being a voice for the community. Ms. Wille in satisfaction, commended Ms. Payesko coming forward and have been one of those of angry at the failure of the mayor to appoint individuals, yet at the same time, at the last hour, the mayor is functional and moving forward, though failed to appoint anyone for the North Kohala CDP. Mr. Chung extended appreciation to Ms. Payesko and commended her as he has heard all good thigs from colleagues on the west side. Unfortunately, her appointment came out because of a letter from Mayor-elect Kim expressing concerns of vacant positions in our Boards and Commissions. Mr. Chung is currently looking at a compromise where Committee Members may postpone matters such as these and let the incoming mayor vet, as he had concerns on said appointments at such a late date given the length of time that they were and are vacant with the exception of the Board of Ethics and Board of Appeals. Mr. Chung concluded that nominees thus far for our Boards and Commissions, Mayor Kenoi has done a great job in appointing for caring and fair individuals. Mr. Chung simply request Ms. Payesko be fair in dealing with public. Ms. Eoff shared how reassuring to know of Ms. Payesko's background in law, public service and passion for elderly law. Ms. Eoff is currently facing an engaging steering committee with Ms. Poindexter for health concerns and look forward to collaborate with Ms. Payesko.