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8 �.j.1 4Sj . <br /> X!J I.,'2 <br /> December 22, 2016 i z' <br /> , <br /> OF CnVI,t,?y, <br /> G. Discussion and consideration of hiring a Legislative Coordinator. <br /> President Victorino stated that this is the opportune time to try this <br /> effort for six months and then evaluate its effectiveness at the June 2017 <br /> general membership meeting. Having someone present at the <br /> Legislature is crucial, especially during decision making when <br /> councilmembers are busy formulating their county budgets and may not <br /> be available to attend legislative hearings. <br /> Regarding the tort liability proposal, President Victorino received the <br /> following voice message: "Mike, this is Bob Toyofuku. It is Tuesday, <br /> December 20. It's about 5 o'clock. Sorry I didn't call any earlier; I've been <br /> swamped as usual. But I did talk to the trial lawyer group that I <br /> represent, and unfortunately, Mike, they are still opposed to the bill and <br /> having the sunset changed...making it permanent. Feel free to call me. <br /> I'll be in tomorrow. 524-4155. Sorry I couldn't see you today. We had our <br /> office party earlier and I had these meetings, and the other thing, my wife <br /> got really sick so I had to change my plans anyway and get her to the <br /> doctor. Anyway, talk to you later. Thanks, Mike." President Victorino <br /> noted that Mr. Toyofuku was very positive during an earlier meeting <br /> with him and was going to present alternative language for the counties <br /> to have the same immunity as the State, but that did not happen. <br /> Treasurer Anderson offered to approach former Representative Blake <br /> Oshiro, who is with Capital Consultants Hawai`i, a very successful firm <br /> at the State and County levels, regarding working with HSAC should the <br /> members decide to move forward with hiring a lobbyist. <br /> Vice President Kanuha stated that each county does its part in <br /> supporting HSAC and each other, and lobbying as necessary. President <br /> Victorino noted that bigger states have the financial means to hire an <br /> executive director who would be responsible for these legislative-related <br /> duties. President Victorino stated that he attended a legislative <br /> coordinators' meeting in California, where he found out that many of the <br /> counties have legislative coordinators that assist their associations. The <br /> counties with no legislative coordinator are informed of what is <br /> happening at the legislature. <br /> Secretary Rapozo believed that Mr. Ishikawa's efforts with educating the <br /> general public and organizations on the issues is key for HSAC to be <br /> successful in relaying its message and getting the public's support. <br /> Secretary Rapozo agreed that more discussion on this effort, including <br /> associated costs, are needed. <br />