2024-08-08 Police Commission Regular Minutes

Home

Hawai'i Police Commission Regular Session Minutes Special Meeting August 8, 2024 Page 2 Commissioner Buckman proposed adding more details to paragraph B about the annual budget review. Commissioner Quartararo inquired about advising the chief on community relations, and it was suggested to include this in the chief's report. Vice Chair Bertsch noted the chief is developing a community calendar and stressed the importance of commissioners being active in the community to enhance transparency. • Organization: There was a discussion about the election of the chair, formation of committees, and Permitted Interaction Groups (PIG). • Commission Meetings: Commissioner Tavares proposed revisiting the idea of remote attendance. Commissioner Quartararo raised concerns about the lack of orientation for new board members. Commissioner Buckman mentioned that in the past, new commissioners received an orientation from the department, which is no longer the case. • Policy: Discussion focused on department policies and whether the term "vote" should be used instead of"pass" when referring to the passing of policies. • Charges Brought by the Public: The commission discussed complaint classifications— whether they are insufficient or sufficient and referred to the chief. Some complaints don't fit into these categories, creating challenges. Commissioner Quartararo noted that some complaints are hard to read and asked if the secretary could type them. He also inquired about requiring the public to submit typed complaints. DCC Salas-Ferguson advised that such a requirement would limit access, as handwritten complaints are acceptable, and restricting them could lead to negative feedback. Further discussion touched on the burden of proof and communication issues. Chair Robinson noted the commission doesn't always receive updates on complaints referred for investigation. DCC Salas-Ferguson explained that the Charter requires the police chief to provide periodic reports to the commission on the department's activities and outcomes of investigations. • Declaratory of Rulings: The discussion included the public's ability to request amendments to commission rules, with reference to procedures outlined in Chapter 91. DCC Salas-Ferguson mentioned that he would review and provide specific details on the timeframe and process. • Subpoena Power: Vice Chair Bertsch noted that the commission has the power to subpoena individuals outside of the department but not department employees. • Appointment of the Chief of Police: The discussion covered the process for hiring the chief and the appointment of the deputy by the chief, which is confirmed by the