2019-06-12 Fire Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Minutes of June 12, 2019 Page 6 Chair Henkel stated that they are an oversight board, and they have an oversight process. They are not an investigative board. The Human Resources process is not their kuleana. Commissioner Payesko asked what the Legislative Auditor does. Ms. Schoen stated that she does financial audits of the programs and agencies in the county. Typically, they focus on financial matters. They did an audit on the HR Department. She has not seen them do a performance audit of a board or commission. Commissioner Payesko stated that she has had phone calls from people who are frustrated with the Fire Department's hiring process but doesn't know if their area of responsibility is that broad. Commissioner Keamo stated that he is okay with asking Human Resources if the hiring practices and process is fair in accordance with the law. If they say yes, than he is okay with that. They need to trust those doing the hiring. Commissioner Susman again asked to have a seminar to see if they are doing it right. He doesn't think they are. He would like to make a motion to send his drafted letters. Commissioner Keamo stated that before voting on the motion, they could formulate questions and include it in the letter. Their response to the commission could be written. Chair Henkel stated that he would like to clarify the letter. Commissioner Yamada stated that he doesn't agree with things in the letter. Following more discussion, Chair Henkel stated that he is satisfied with the professional advice they have had from Corporation Counsel. Commissioner Susman stated that he is not at all. Ms. Schoen stated that Corporation Counsel is the entity that interprets the charter for all its County clients, including HR and the Legislative Auditor. They advise their County clients, and sometimes, their advice is not heeded. If their clients disregard their legal advice, they do so at their own peril. Sitting in on employment interviews is not within the commission's jurisdiction. After more discussion, Commissioner Susman stated that his main issue is with personnel matters. AC Perreira stated that the Chief does not get involved in the interview process. He only gets the final outcome.