2024-04-19 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawaii Police Commission Regular Session Minutes April 19, 2024 Page 4 Chief Moszkowicz added that this occurred because they aimed to innovate and update the test content. Historically, the written test didn't cover Hawai'i Revised Statutes, bargaining unit contracts, or policies and procedures. However, when they incorporated these elements into a new test, it created numerous complications. They realized that if HR certified the list, they would likely face grievances from multiple parties. Ultimately, the cleanest solution was to discard the test altogether. Commissioner Ing inquired about the perception surrounding the recent situation. AC Burian noted that while he hadn't directly queried officers, they aimed for transparency. He mentioned that SHOPO had met with the chief, emphasizing their commitment to promoting the most qualified individuals and making the testing process more straightforward. Chief Moszkowicz highlighted the importance of effective communication, citing a recent HPD TV episode where they explained the situation comprehensively. Assistant Chief Burian reiterated their transparency, emphasizing their goal of promoting the most capable candidates through a fair process Commissioner Lacerte asked what the likelihood of getting a score up to 70% was. AC Burian explained it hinges on the volume of material one needs to study. After consulting with HR, they decided to change the passing score to 65%. However, he advocated for maintaining the score at 60%. In the past, he observed a low pass rate on the test. Candidates may possess strong book knowledge, but do they have the comprehensive understanding required? He stressed the importance of various assessment components beyond the written test, such as performance evaluations, interviews, memos, and supervisor feedback. Relying solely on written testing could potentially exclude a significant portion of qualified candidates. There was further discussion regarding the recruit class graduation, vacancies, and retirees assisting with background checks. The department is making progress and is currently in its best position regarding sworn vacancies since approximately 2020. While recruits aren't in the field yet, they are progressing through the pipeline. • Other Recruitment Activities (continued): AC Burian reported internal captain recruitment took place from January 14th to January 23rd, with a referral list received and pending interviews. Major recruitment is underway, awaiting selection. Continuous recruitment efforts persist, with the latest physical agility test held in April, resulting in four successful candidates who will join the recruit class in July. The next set of written exams for Police Officer I is scheduled for April 22nd, followed by the physical agility test on May 8th. Assistant Chief Burian extended an invitation to the commission to observe the agility test on May 8th, starting at 7:30 a.m. • Finance: AC Burian reported HPD's targeted overall expenditure target was 70.66% and the actual was 69.57%. Targeted salaries and wages expenditures were 79.17% and actual 77.96%. Regular salaries and wages at 68.98%. Overtime salaries and wages were 222.52% and miscellaneous salaries and wages were 107.09%.