2024-12-12 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes December 12, 2024 Page 7 system. Commissioner Mattos questioned the necessity of the position, asserting the current deputy could handle the responsibilities. Commissioner Hirakami expressed concern about questioning the chief on personnel matters, stating it might be inappropriate and sought clarification from legal counsel. DCC Salas-Ferguson explained that personnel decisions fall under the chief's discretion. However, the Fire Commission holds the authority to remove or supervise the chief and may review departmental operations to recommend improvements. He and DCC Wong are drafting guidance for a formal process to ensure clarity and transparency in these matters, citing relevant sections of the County Charter. Chief Todd addressed further questions about the position, explaining that it is temporary, he has the funding, and it was created to address specific work that needs completion. He noted that the Fire Projects Transition Coordinator reports directly to him, not the deputy, and is focused on closing out key projects such as implementing the policies and procedures system via Laserfiche and other assignments. Chief Todd emphasized that he has the funding for the position. He explained that the fire section alone ended last year with $1.3 million in surplus salaries and wages. The contract for the role expires at the end of the fiscal year. Chair Kosaki requested further clarification about the position. Commissioner Hirakami responded that this line of questioning concerns operations and deemed it inappropriate, emphasizing that commissioners are meant to act as a collective body rather than as individuals expressing personal opinions. Chair Kosaki clarified that he intended to seek clarification. Recess was called at 10:40 a.m., the meeting reconvened at 10:56 a.m. NEW BUSINESS Election of Chair and Vice Chair of the Hawaii County Fire Commission for 2025, per Rule 5(a)(1). Chair Kosaki opened the floor for nominations and asked if anyone wished to make a nomination. Commissioner Perrin nominated Commissioner Hirakami for Chair, and Commissioner Hirakami accepted. Commissioner Mattos nominated Chair Kosaki, who also accepted the nomination. No additional nominations were made. Chair Kosaki called for a vote: o For Commissioner Hirakami as Chair: Commissioners Perrin, Magsalin, Luke, and Hirakami raised their hands.