2023-06-22 Merit Appeals Board Minutes

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Merit Appeals Board June 22, 2023 The reason why I appointed Danny is very well reflected in the job that we've done in the last two years. I did not do—the—our successes that are reflected in the evaluation and everything that I've shared with you all, is in partnership with Danny. He and I have been on the same page throughout. He and I have worked on all of these major projects together. There are some big things that is critical that there be seamless transition. The very first one is negotiations, which is coming up very soon. In fact, the State Department of Human Resources and Development has already initiated discussions. Danny and I have already been involved with many of the issues currently going on in the County. And so, that's one of the reasons why it's important to really consider an appointment of the acting director. Some other things I want to share with you, if I may, applicants will look great on paper. The interview process the interview and selection process will lack the most evaluation piece proof that the person can actually do the job. With Danny you all have that. He's great on paper and I can attest to and the staff can attest to—he can do the job. There's also, if by chance a new director is selected, there's risk. There's a huge risk in taking huge steps backwards in the progress we've already been that's already been made in filling this role with the new person. Like I've said, we've worked closely on some major projects. We're gearing up for negotiations. The temporary hazard pay, which is a huge cost to the County that he and I have been working on through arbitrationsa lot of major departmental labor issues, development of our employee recruitment and retention programs—which you've all heard great things about—and our health and safety development program, which I'll talk about in a little bit. And you need someone—in my experience, you need someone knowledgeable about all functional areas and how the—how that works within the County of Hawaii—and Danny has that. Danny also brings to the table the legal background that is—has been so crucial in our operations. It's helped me with resolving grievances, its helped us implement some pretty significant policies and procedures. He works very well hand-in-hand with Corporation Counsel. Danny has—also has experience working with the Salary Commission and with the Merit Appeals Board before he came onto—before he joined Human Resources. I am impressed with Danny's professionalism, fairness, reliability, and trustworthiness. He has proven to work well with all departments, outside agencies, and—most importantly, with our staff and management. They have his trust and they—it's easy to work with Danny. A significant shift in leadership could potentially affect the morale and the direction of the department. We have worked with the leadership team in DHR and have established regular departmental meetings to create a safe and open lines of communication for all. Page 10