2024-08-08 Police Commission Regular Minutes

Home

HAWAI`I POLICE COMMISSION REGULAR SESSION MINUTES SPECIAL MEETING, AUGUST 8, 2024 COUNTY BUILDING, COUNCIL CHAMBERS, SUITE 1401 25 AUPUNI ST., HILO, HI CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL Chair Robinson called the meeting to order at 9.05 a.m. Present: Rick Robinson, Chair John Bertsch, Vice Chair Arthur Buckman, Commissioner Travis Ing, Commissioner Eileen Lacerte, Commissioner Rod Quartararo, Commissioner Jacob Tavares, Commissioner Absent: Anthony Sur, Commissioner A quorum was present. Also present: Benjamin Moszkowicz, Police Chief Reed Mahuna, Deputy Chief Andrew Burian, Assistant Chief Tuck Loy Aurello, Captain Sinclair Salas-Ferguson, Deputy Corporation Counsel Charisse Correa, Secretary STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS (None) REVIEW OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI`I POLICE COMMISSION RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE • Mission Statement: Commissioner Buckman suggested incorporating a reference to transparency in the mission statement, emphasizing mutual respect and transparency between the commission and the public. • Definitions: The commission discussed clarifying the term "regular officers," which led to a conversation about the roles of reserve officers. It was recommended to use "sworn officer" in place of "regular officer." • Powers and Duties of the Commission: Chair Robinson asked about the commission's authority to hire investigative personnel. Vice Chair Bertsch confirmed they have the authority to hire a secretary and consultant or outside investigator. Chair Robinson noted the lack of funds. Vice Chair Bertsch mentioned the commission oversees the department's budget, and the department is required to fund the Police Commission. DCC Salas-Ferguson clarified that the Charter mandates sufficient funds be allocated in the Police Department's budget for the Police Commission.