2024-07-19 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawai'i Police Commission Regular Session Minutes July 19, 2024 Page 6 Commissioner Tavares inquired if there is a method or process for them to participate in reassignments and ensure their input is considered. He asked whether they missed an opportunity to provide feedback or if they should be requesting involvement in the future. DCC Salas-Ferguson noted that this topic wasn't on the agenda, so it appears to be an announcement made by the chair. He explained that his office periodically reassigns based on resources and staffing, especially when personnel changes occur. These decisions, by Corporation Counsel Elizabeth Strance, can happen for various reasons. A recent new hire prompted this particular shift. Historically, their department hasn't typically consulted with the departments they serve regarding personnel preferences, although directors sometimes voice their opinions. As deputy corporation counsel, he's aware that assignments will shift occasionally. He can inform the commission of upcoming changes and ask if they have anything they'd like him to communicate to his boss about a reassignment. He mentioned that any formal input would likely require a vote from the commission. He plans to meet with his director to discuss these concerns and will report back. Commissioner Lacerte suggested that the commission submit something formally. Chair Robinson explained that if the commission wishes to do so, it would need to be placed on the agenda as an official item. Commissioner Tavares recommended adding this to the next agenda so they can draft a letter from the commission, enabling open dialogue when such changes affect them. Chair Robinson requested that this be added as an agenda item for the next meeting. EXECUTIVE SESSION (CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC) Commissioner Buckman motioned to meet in executive session to consider charges against officers or employees of the police department, where matters affecting privacy will be involved; to consider sensitive matters related to public safety, and may 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)(2)(4)(6) and the Hawai'i County Charter Section 13-20 (b). Seconded by Commissioner Lacerte, with no discussion, it carried unanimously. Executive session convened at 10:17 a.m. Motion to reconvene open session made by Commissioner Tavares, seconded by Commissioner Buckman, with no discussion, and it carried unanimously. The regular session reconvened at 12:25 p.m. ACTION ON EXECUTIVE SESSION MATTERS • Investigation of complaints: o HPC 24-22: Complainant alleges officers are harassing him and fabricating charges. Commissioner Buckman made a motion that there was sufficient evidence to refer to the chief for further investigation, it was a classic example of he said, she said, with both parties being present. Commissioner Quartararo seconded.