2020-12-03 Windward Planning Commission Minutes

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have been outstanding and fabulous. On behalf of the Commission and himself he is very thankful for the support. Lastly, he recognized and thanked Director Michael Yee for his leadership, all the work he has done, and all he has done for the people of the Big Island. A personal thank you was given from the Commission and the Chair to Director Yee. The Chair allowed Director Yee to share some words. He reminisced about when he came four (4) years ago with his family and was happy to serve as Director. He thanked the Windward and Leeward Planning Commissioners for their volunteer services and indicated they are the most influential groups and represent a variety of interests and are seldom recognized for their services and the Department truly appreciate their service. He mentioned an article in the newspaper where an elected official questioned the integrity of the Planning Department and the Planning Commissions. He felt it to be offensive and was not given the opportunity to address the opinion therefore, he addressed his concerns. He stated questioning the integrity of the Planning staff and Commissioners was shameful. He thanked Daryn Arai, Duane Kanuha, and April Surprenant whom served as his Deputy Directors as his kumu's, his mentors, and his trusted friends who helped him be a better Planning Director. He also acknowledged the Planning Staff and thanked them for accepting him into their ohana 4 years ago. Lastly, he thanked his private secretary Rachelle and said mahalo and aloha to all. The Commissioners and staff all clapped after the Director had shared his words. Chair Raffipiy also thanked the staff from the Corporation Counsel office has been their guide and compass whenever they strayed. He stated Malia has been on point and kept them in check. Elections of Officers for 2021 The Commission took up this item at 9:48 a.m., with no members of the public live streaming the meeting. Chairman Aguinaldo made a motion nominating Commissioner Replogle as chairperson. Commissioner Clarkson seconded. In discussion and comments Commissioner Au thanked Chair Raffipiy for his service as Chair through this Covid time and offered special thanks to the Planning Director and Planning staff. He reflected on the parting words by Director Yee and appreciated his rebuttal to the article in the newspaper and indicated he is honored to be part of this body. Commissioner Clarkson assured the Commission that Commissioner Replogle will be a fine chairperson and stated his acknowledgement to be Chair as needed. As Commissioner Replogle was smiling Commissioner Clarkson indicted he assumed the answer is yes. Commissioner Replogle provided his willingness to serve as Chair. He also thanked Director Yee for all he has done for them. Commissioner Clarkson thanked Director Yee as well for all he has done for the County. Commissioner Aguinaldo shared his comments on his behalf and the residents in the Puna District. He thanked Director Yee as he learned a lot from him as other staff has guided him as he did not know a lot of things. He reiterated as Commissioner Au mentioned they are public Page 3 of 5 Windward Planning Commission December 3,2020 Minutes