2019-06-12 Fire Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Minutes of June 12, 2019 Page 5 Commissioner Susman stated that the issue is to get expert opinion on the charter, a legal opinion on what the charter says, and what the job of the Fire Commission is. He is trying to invite these experts, like a seminar. After more discussion, Commissioner Susman stated that it doesn't take the whole commission to do oversight. One person could do oversight. Ms. Schoen disagreed. She stated that the commission acts as a body. Commissioner Yamada stated that they can seek information as a commission, not individually. Chair Henkel asked Commissioner Susman if the root of his concern is the HR hiring process. Commissioner Susman stated that that is part of it and also the charter where it says that the commission shall not interfere in any way with the administrative affairs of the department. After more discussion, Commissioner Susman stated that there were many incorrect things in Ms. Schoen's letter. He then went on to read his written testimony (on file). In summary, he disputes the Fire Chief's and Corporation Counsel's interpretation of the charter and HRS with regards to the commission's duties and releasing of personnel records. He wants to see the records of an applicant's score and interview. He wants third parties to resolve these issues. Commissioner Yamada told Commissioner Susman that he is acting on hearsay and making statements on hearsay. Assistant Chief Perreira stated that there are people who are good in interviews and some who are not. He has been on a lot of panels, and he believes their process is good. If someone is not doing well, they need to know. They are concerned about people who are young and inexperienced. Being in the process, he believes their process is good. In the last class four people resigned. They were in the top of the class, but they felt it was not right for them. Commissioner Yamada stated that he would not want to interfere in the objectivity of the interview. Commissioner Susman stated that he wants to ask the HR Director and Legislative Auditor if their process is fair. Commissioner Yamada told Commissioner Susman that given his reasons, he doesn't think it's right to ask these people to advise them. What he is saying is his perception of what the truth is.