2022-12-12 Police Commission Regular Minutes

Home

Hawaii Police Commission Special Meeting Minutes December 12, 2022 Page 6 Chair Bertsch motioned to meet in executive session for the purpose to ratify interview questions for the candidates and to consult with the board's attorney on questions and issues pertaining to the commission's powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities pursuant to HRS 92-5 (a)(4). Commissioner Robinson seconded, with no discussion, and it carried unanimously. Executive session convened at 10:30 a.m. Motion to reconvene open session made by Commissioner Lassiter, seconded by Commissioner Toci, with no discussion and it carried unanimously. Regular session reconvened at 11:24 a.m. Recess was called at 11:25 a.m. the meeting reconvened at 11:34 a.m. STATEMENT FROM THE PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS (Summarized) • Leah Burns came before the commission and requested to give public testimony. She stated she is currently homeless and explained her past and present living conditions and personal issues. She further expressed her frustrations and alleges she is harassed by the community and police. STATEMENT FROM THE CHAIR Chair Bertsch congratulated all four finalists and stated that he will be recusing himself from the chief's selection process moving forward. He explained that the basis of this decision stems from his close friendship and association with Edward Ignacio. As disclosed to the commission, he recused himself once Mr. Ignacio was associated with his application number and his identity was exposed. He further explained their long-term friendship known to many within the community. Mr. Ignacio lived in his house when he was assigned back to the Big Island while still employed by the Bureau. They traveled together, spent holidays, golfed, and worked various events together. Mr. Ignacio also worked with him closely during this year's IRONMAN event. He stated that he has no reservations that he could act in an impartial way during this selection process. It would be unfair to all the applicants (including Mr. Ignacio) that this relationship may be perceived to affect the final outcome of the selection process. For this, he conflicts out. He wished everyone the best of luck and turned the meeting back over to Vice Chair Brown. UNFINISHED BUSINESS • Selection process for the next Police Chief for the County of Hawaii: All four finalists came before the commission. Vice Chair Brown stated that the commission came up with several interview questions and so did the public, which they narrowed down. He explained that he will pose a question, and going down the line all candidates will be asked the same question. Each candidate will be given three minutes to provide an answer, there may or may not be follow-up questions.