2023-02-17 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawaii Police Commission Regular Session Minutes February 17, 2023 Page 10 a county initiative, got on the ballot in 2008 and they won the election here. He referenced his archives, an article from 1987 in the Honolulu Advertiser "Marijuana use championed at Big Isle Council hearing; raids called war on people", and an internal police document showing the State of Hawaii and County of Hawaii eradication numbers and the value of the plants that were taken in 1986-1989. He stated that he got here in 1986 when it was wonderful happy days. There was almost no meth and very little crime. The county parks were open 24 hours, and there were no yellow gates, that came after eradication, it was called "operation wipeout." Mr. Christie also referenced an article that states cannabis is a great substitute for hard drugs and another study that has shown cannabis is associated with reduced fentanyl exposure. His contention is that if marijuana eradication caused the conditions for meth and crime here, which has been proven, it has caused great damage and it continues today. He thinks it's time to back out of cannabis prohibition and he hopes a more constitutional and enlightened policy is forthcoming from the administration at HPD. Chair Brown stated Mr. Christie doesn't just talk the talk, he walks the walk. He served time for his beliefs when he could've easily dropped what he was doing, but he kept at it. Whether we agree with him or not, Mr. Christie has his respect for sticking to his beliefs and he appreciates and respects that. Mr. Christie stated he and his wife spent time in high -security federal detentions with no bail on a first offense, there were no victims and no violence. His dad taught him to never complain. He was treated poorly, but it's part of the game of life and is happy to be here today. He expressed his appreciation for the commission and the system of government. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Discussion regarding having online access/participation in Police Commission meetings. Chair Brown stated Commissioner Quartararo requested this. Commissioner Springer stated there had been inquiries from the public if the commission would continue using Zoom. Chair Brown stated Ms. Correa may have some input on this. Ms. Correa stated she reserved Council Chambers for the same meeting dates already scheduled for the year just in case the commission decides to move forward and use Zoom in future meetings. She explained that's the only way the commission will be able to use Zoom because the conference rooms aren't properly equipped with internet. She would also have to get a camera and speakers and the commission doesn't have staff to set that all up, it's just her. If the commission would like to use Zoom, she advised the commission that the meetings would have to be in Council Chambers. She further stated there are also other things to consider.