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Hawaii Fire Commission <br /> Regular Session Minutes <br /> October 24, 2024 <br /> Page 8 <br /> essential to read but are provided for those interested in reviewing them. The <br /> appendices, on the other hand, are guiding documents that Chief Todd uses for the <br /> department. They are intended for the commission to reference during future <br /> discussions, as he frequently consults these documents when making decisions <br /> about the department's direction. The commission now has physical copies of these <br /> documents to use in their conversations. <br /> Commissioner Magsalin mentioned that visiting fire stations and being actively <br /> involved provides valuable insight into how the department is performing and <br /> progressing. She emphasized that it helps the commission understand the <br /> department's current status and future direction. <br /> Chief Todd explained that the appendices include a framework for the department's <br /> growth and success, a document he initially shared with the Fire Commission during <br /> his application for Fire Chief. These documents outline goals he set over three <br /> years, many of which have been achieved, driving significant progress within the <br /> department. He emphasized that the documents offer the commission insight into his <br /> planning process, outlining both his past and ongoing objectives. These foundational <br /> documents, which he printed and provided to the commission, are central to his <br /> decision-making as he evaluates the department's direction, goals, and measures of <br /> success. <br /> Chair Kosaki asked DCC Wong if the commission could go into executive session to <br /> discuss internal matters. DCC Wong inquired about the purpose, asking if they <br /> intended to ask a legal question. Chair Kosaki explained that the goal was to discuss <br /> the evaluation process and gain some insights about the chief's assessment. DCC <br /> Wong stated that typically, executive sessions are used for personnel and privacy <br /> matters to protect the individual being evaluated. However, based on the chief's <br /> statements, it appears he has waived that privacy and is open to keeping the <br /> discussion in open session. If the commission chooses to keep it open, that's <br /> acceptable. <br /> Chair Kosaki clarified that while the evaluation is thorough and well-written, the <br /> commission should be mindful not to get caught up in the language or structure of <br /> the organization when reviewing it. He encouraged them to focus on what is actually <br /> happening in the department and consider the discussions from meetings. He <br /> emphasized that there are both positive and negative aspects to consider and <br /> advised the commission to approach the self-evaluation with their own objective <br /> viewpoints. He clarified that this was not intended as criticism of the chief, but rather <br /> as a reminder to keep an open and independent perspective. He then asked if there <br /> were any further questions. <br /> Commissioner Hirakami noted that the chair and two other members have a deeper <br /> understanding of the department, allowing them to take the evaluation at face value. <br /> However, as a general public commissioner who has never been inside the <br />