Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-05-01 Liquor Commission Minutes HiloCOUNTY OF HAWAI`I DEPARTMENT OF LIQUOR CONTROL LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES — MAY 19 2025 HILO LAGOON CENTRE 101 AU PU N I STREET, UNIT 230 H I LO, HAWAI `I I. Call to Order The meeting was called to order by Chair Okabe at 10:00 A.M., in the Hilo Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Au pu n i Street, Unit 230, Hilo, Hawaii. The following were present and constituted a quorum: Commissioners: Wil Okabe, Chair David Greenwell, Vice Chair Gene Nakashima, Commissioner Laurisa Nishimoto, Commissioner Arthur Taniguchi, Commissioner Jennifer Wilkinson, Commissioner Absent and Excused: Melvin Ventura, Commissioner Jennifer Yadao, Commissioner Gerald Takase, Director Others Present: Brandon Gonzalez, Administrative Officer Keyra Wong, Deputy Corporation Counsel Stacie Waltjen, Licensing Officer Zoeann Bertelmann, Licensing Technician Hau`oli Sayles, Commission Secretary Okabe: Please silence your cell phones and other devices. This meeting is being recorded, so speak loud and clear and one at a time. We will now do roll call, please say present when your name is called. Sayles: Vice Chair Greenwell. Greenwell: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Nakashima. Nakashima: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Nishimoto. Nishimoto: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Taniguchi. Taniguchi: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Wilkinson. Wilkinson: Present. Sayles: Chair Okabe. Okabe: Present. Sayles: Absent and excused today are Commissioner Ventura, Commissioner Yadao, and Director Takase. Others present are Administrative Officer Brandon Gonzalez, Deputy Corporation Counsel Keyra Wong, Licensing Officer Stacie Waltjen, Licensing Technician Zoe Bertelmann, and Commission Secretary Hau`oli Sayles. II. Approval of Minutes —April 3, 2025 (10:01AM) Okabe: The April 3, 2025, site visit and public hearing meeting minutes is still a work in progress, and we will send it out as soon as possible. III. Approval of Addendum and/or Supplemental Agenda (10:01 AM) Okabe: There is no addendum or supplemental agendas at this time. IV. Public Statements on Agenda Items (10:01 AM) Okabe: Any public statements from members of the public at this time? There were no statements from members of the public. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 2 OF 63 V. Public Hearings (10:02 AM) 1. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10: 02 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 24-20 Wyatt's Place LLC Wyatt's Place 17-4003 Ahuahu Place, Kurtistown, Hawaii 1-7-021:025 Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B 1 Cassandra Hitsman, and Mark Singletary, Co -owners, were present. Okabe: At this time, can you please state your name, and relationship to the business. Hitsman: Yes, my name is Cassandra Hitsman, I'm 50% owner to the busines. Singletary: I'm her husband, Mark Singletary, other 50%. Okabe: Please describe your business. Hitsman: We are a full -service restaurant, currently doing mostly sandwich menu, hoping to go to Italian food, applying for a liquor license. We are in operation right now just as the restaurant. Okabe: Have you received the application report? Hitsman: Yes. Okabe: Are there changes to the report? Hitsman: No. Okabe: Brandon, are there any report of protests? Gonzalez: Chairperson, the applicant mailed 2 out of 2 notices within 100 feet, 21 out of 22 notices within 500 feet, and zero notices to a condominium or cooperative property owner. There were 21 properties within 500 feet entitled to protest, and we did receive 4 verifiable protests by properties within 500 feet to this application. Also note, we have received as of this morning 4 letters of support for the application not within 500 feet. Thank you. Okabe: Any public testimony? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. Commissioner discussion, do you have any discussion, Commissioners? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 3 OF 63 Greenwell: Have you people had a chance to sit down and spend some time with the neighbors and talk to them about it? Singletary: We've made the attempt but we hadn't really had any feedback from the neighbors other than the letters that you received. Hitsman: And actually we were surprised a little bit by a couple of the ones that we had received because we did actually have conversations with them, and we were under the assumption that they were in support, but we understand that they had a few concerns after probably contemplating for a while. Singletary: Most of the concerns that were brought up were I believe, due to like the idea of loud music at night, anything late night and stuff. But our restaurant license clearly states that we can't be open after 9:00 p.m., and so I don't think late night really applies for us. Also, we don't plan on having any kind of like you know rock-n-roll shows or anything like that there, it'll probably be just like small local artists, you know single guitar players or something like that, like most of the restaurants in town have. Hitsman: But yes, and even some of them that submitted protests were actually part of our son's birthday party. So yes, we have spent time with the community that's there so, and we were surprised by a couple of them. A few of them we kind of knew because of the close proximity and they are concerned, and we sent one of the ones that we couldn't get a hold of, we did send a letter to them stating that we would like to work with them. We share a driveway in the back with them, and so I think the very first letter that you'll see stated there, they were concerned about the driveway that they share in the back. We do have "No parking" signs that we'll be posting there. We talked to them if they would like to, we could go you know half -half on maybe a fence to put back there if they would prefer you know, us to not have any access there. We also offered to them, we own an excavation company outside of Wyatt's Place, and so we said you know, if you want us to regravel that driveway because we understand. And we never really heard anything back from them, but we did reach out in that sense because we do understand, I mean that driveway is used and we understand that it takes time to maintain a driveway. Greenwell: So, your biggest concern is probably perceived noise. Singletary: Which as of right now, I mean we have our music license and we haven't had any noise complaints, everything stays within the environment of the restaurant. haven't noticed anything being loud, even outside like in the parking lot, so. Hitsman: And we do know that the liquor license doesn't supersede our restaurant license, so we are only allowed to do music on our restaurant license on Fridays and Saturdays, and we are only allowed to do it until 9:00 p.m. So, you know, the liquor license, being able to serve until 2:00 a.m. does not supersede our restaurant license. We also have to maintain the restaurant license hours, and that was the special permitting that we had gotten back in February. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 4 OF 63 Gonzalez: Administrative Officer Gonzalez, so you're referring to the special permit from the Planning Department? Hitsman: Correct, yes. Gonzalez: Authorizing the use of the space? Hitsman: Correct, yes to use until 9:00 p.m. Gonzalez: They already have conditions on them laying out their hours of business for the restaurant. One quick addition, so the concern regarding noise, you've had live entertainment already? Singletary: Just for the birthday party. Hitsman: Just for the birthday party that we had. Singletary: Yes, that was the first time that we had any kind of anything going on there. Gonzalez: So, just keep in mind, we like to remind our licensees and businesses, the first thing that they think of about the noise is what the entertainers produce. Hitsman: Sure. Gonzalez: The real noise comes from the patrons enjoying it, with the cheehooing or the sing -a -longing. Singletary: Right. Gonzalez: And that's the hard part to monitor and regulate the customers as well, because you want them to have a good time, so that's some of the things that you might want to address when you're talking with your neighbors too. Hitsman: Yes, and that's another reason why we don't want to necessarily do like large bands or that kind of thing, you know one person with a ukulele is a little bit different than you know a huge, large band. So, we honestly don't have really the capacity to really do a large band anyways, I mean you know the building is quite old, they'll probably blow the roof off the place. So, you know we are conscience that there is a community there, I mean we have the church right next door, we've been working with the church. And so, we do understand that there's a community there and we wouldn't want anyone playing music loudly, you probably saw our baby who was here at the very beginning, he had to step out. But, you know we wouldn't want anyone playing loud music while we're trying to put our kid to sleep at 9:00 a.m. at night, we understand that, mean we're community members as well, so. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 5 OF 63 Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, so the building that you're occupying is that restaurant, there was also a building in the back that was like a koa shop, is that still occupied? Singletary: We use the annex building as storage right now, and then there's also a house that's part of the property that is actually utilized by our landlord and she just uses it for storage, she's never there, we haven't seen her in the whole year we've had the lease, so. Hitsman: Yes, so just the restaurant building is what we're currently utilizing and that's what we have the special -use permit for only. Nishimoto: And then you say you share the driveway with the house in the back? Hitsman: Yes, there's I think what, three houses back there? Singletary: Well, there's two driveways, and so one driveway we share with one neighbor, the other driveway sits side by side. Hitsman: It's our designated, we do have a designated driveway. Singletary: We do have a driveway that is designated just for us but they use it as well, but it's the one that goes directly to our parking lot, and then there's a driveway that runs right along the side of that easement that actually accesses all the other properties. Nishimoto: Yes, I think one other concern was parking and safety in regards to the driveway, so like you said if you're posting signs, clearly visible signs that would help you know. Hitsman: Yes, and we want the community members to let us know immediately like if they see someone parking there, like we will deal with it, like we're not just letting people camp out there. So, you know, we will be asking people to move vehicles like that's not okay, we wouldn't want our driveway blocked. Singletary: I don't perceive it being a problem anyways, I mean we stay very busy as it is and we don't have any issues with parking as of now. Hitsman: We do have a fairly large parking lot. Taniguchi: I have a question, so that one complaint that mentioned parking, mentioned that they block the driveway and that the rude customers have yelled at me for driving in my own driveway. Singletary: We read that and I think that's a complete falsehood because we would have heard something like that happened, we would've been notified of it immediately. We have had no incident whatsoever. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 6 OF 63 Taniguchi: Is that the one you're referring to? Hitsman: There's I think a couple of the protests had mentioned parking and that driveway, and the back because it is like I said, a shared driveway for several properties back there. Taniguchi: Because you don't have that many tables. Hitsman: No. And the other thing is too is that I think that there might be a little bit confusion too because, and we did take some time pictures because the church that's next door also parks along that cul-de-sac there. And so, sometimes in some of the complaints that we have gotten aren't actually from our customers, it's actually from church members. And so, like there was a complaint that somebody was you know parked on the County gate or the what do you call it? Singletary: The sewage grade. Hitsman: The sewage grade, but then we have pictures of times that we're not even open and it's actually the church members. And so, there might be a little bit of a disconnect or like a confusion as to whose there at which time because we really encourage our customers to be parking in our parking lot, I mean because then that way we're completely responsible for them, right? Yeah. Taniguchi: So, the music that you're allowed to have on Fridays and Saturdays, is that limited to a certain type of music? No amplified music? Singletary: There's no type of music that's it's limited to but I don't like techno or any of that kind stuff, so I don't see it playing in my establishment, I'm more of an oldies guy. Hitsman: Yes exactly, like I said the capacity for that back area just really isn't a big capacity for a large band, and so there's not a stipulation necessarily on our permit, but for us personally you know, we want people to come and have a good time and still be able to talk to their family and let the keiki be there too. So we're not looking for something vulgar, we're not looking for something like I said gonna blow the roof off the place, just something that's you know nice, single person with a guitar or ukulele, you know that kind of thing. Taniguchi: So, it's a restaurant? Hitsman: Yes. Singletary: Yes, we're a restaurant, we're not a bar. Hitsman: We're not a bar, and we're not advertising as a bar. Taniguchi: So, how come you got a pool table? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 7 OF 63 Singletary: We do have pool tables and we have a foosball table and I plan on putting in a video game corner and all for the keiki, like we don't charge for any of the games. Hitsman: Yes. Taniguchi: So, it's just free? Hitsman: Yes, it's just free games. Singletary: Yes, we're just gonna have free games, kind of you know, when you bring your kids in it kind of gives them a nice something to do as opposed to like you know, mean I see what my son wants to do, just run around and cause havoc, so. Hitsman: And the other part of that too is that you know, up in Mountain View area, I'm not sure how many of you live up there are familiar, there's just really no place for the community to come and hang out and you know, be with ohana, be with neighbors, you know just be a community. And so, that's really what we're trying to you know, establish up there, and so having pool tables, you know my husband likes to sit around and talk business across a game of pool, and so I'm sure that other community members like that as well. And so, that's really you know what we're aiming for, we're not trying to be touristy, we're really trying to give a place for the people that live in and work in the community to have a place to hang out and just come relax. Gonzalez: Thank you for that information, and just keep in mind, like I'm glad you guys are going into this eyes wide open, you're making a community gathering place, that's kind of like the underlining concern for people that live there because there's going to get more people there. You know, the clientele you're trying to bring in and you're trying to create is in a good way for the neighbors as well, and so we appreciate that. Singletary: Well, we try to keep everything affordable like you know, if you look at our menu prices, even like we keep everything under $20.00 so that it's 100% locally -driven business, we aren't trying to cater to the tourism industry, there's enough of that here. Okabe: I commend you for trying to do that for the community, I think the Commissioners concern is, every time when this particular Commission addresses the vendors, complaints is a very serious situation for us. We take that very seriously, and I think when you say that you're gonna try to outreach to the community and have the conversation, that's very important. I think you might want to also try to have conversations with the church, because miscommunication in regards to where they should be parking could create some problems as well. Hitsman: And, we didn't even realize that until we started getting these protests, and we're like wait, what? Like, and then we started paying more attention to like when the church was parking there, we're like oh maybe that's it you know. Okabe: Okay, are there any other questions, Commissioners? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 8 OF 63 There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, can I have a motion to close the public hearing? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to close the public hearing. Taniguchi: Taniguchi, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to close the public hearing; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Moved and seconded, is there any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All those opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: Motion to approve or deny Application No. 24-20, pending final inspection? Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, move to approve Application No. 24-20, pending final inspection. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application No. 24-20, Wyatt's Place LLC, dba Wyatt's Place, for an Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at 17-4003 Ahuahu Place, Kurtistown, Hawaii, TMK: 1-7-021:025, pending final inspection; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Discussion to the motion? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 9 OF 63 There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Commissioners, hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 2. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:16 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 24-25 Kona Cocktail Academy LLC Big Island Bottle Shop 75-5729 Ali`i Drive, #C104, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 7-5-007:005 Original Retail General liquor license Gonzalez: Mr. Chair, the applicant is asking that this matter be continued to the June 5, 2025, Liquor Commission hearing in Kona, so that they can complete their notice requirement fulfillment. Okabe: Any public testimony in regards to that? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none, any discussion or questions? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, okay is there a motion to continue to the June 5, 2025, Liquor Commission hearing in Kona? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to continue to the June 5, 2025) Commissioner hearing in Kona. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 10 OF 63 Commissioner Greenwell moved to continue to the June 5, 2025, Liquor Commission public hearing in Kona; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 3. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10: 18 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TM K: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: T24-26 Umekes Airport LLC Umekes KOA Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole, 73-400 Kupipi Street, Aloha Location, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 7-3-043-003-0073 Sale and Transfer of the Dispenser General liquor license, Category A, currently held by Volume Services, Inc., dba Centerplate —Aloha Representing applicant: Who Yoneyama, Authorized Rep. Okabe: Please identify yourself. Yoneyama: This is Miho Yoneyama, I'm here on behalf of Nakoa Pabre of Umekes KOA. Okabe: Please describe the business. Yoneyama: It is the concession at the airport at the Aloha location, and it just serves everybody with the snacks and drinks and so forth. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 11 OF 63 Okabe: Have you received the application report? Yoneyama: Yes. Okabe: Any changes to the report? Yoneyama: No. Okabe: Brandon, are there any report of protests? Gonzalez: Chairperson, this is a sale and transfer, so typically mailed notices are not required, however in this case the applicant did mail 246 out of 250 notices within 100 feet, 263 out of 269 notices within 500 feet, and 0 notices to a condo or cooperative property owner. There were 149 properties within 500 feet entitled to protest, and we did not receive any protests to this application. Okabe: Are there any public testimony in regards to this? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. Commission, discussion or questions for Miho? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, I'd like to entertain a motion to close public hearing? Taniguchi: Move to close public hearing. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to close the public hearing; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Moved and seconded, any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 12 OF 63 There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: Motion to approve Application No. T24-26? Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, move to approve Application No. T24-26, pending final inspection. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application No. T24-26, Umekes Airport LLC, dba Umekes KOA, for a Sale and Transfer of the Dispenser General liquor license, Category A, currently held by Volume Services, Inc., dba Centerplate — Aloha, located at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole, 73-400 Kupipi Street, Aloha Location, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, TMK: 7-3-043-003-0073, pending final inspection; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Okay, moved and seconded, any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: I'd like to entertain a motion to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-DG-253, effective March 6, 2025? Taniguchi: Move to ratify. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 13 OF 63 Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-DG-253, effective March 6, 2025; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 4. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:21 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TM K: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: T24-30 Sakura Kona LLC Sakura Japanese Restaurant Crossroads Shopping Center, 75-1027 Henry Street, #108B, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 7-5-004-054 Sale and Transfer of the Restaurant Beer and Wine liquor license, Category A, currently held by Sakura Japanese Restaurant Inc., dba Sakura Japanese Restaurant Representing applicant: Miho Yoneyama, Authorized Rep. Yoneyama: This is Miho Yoneyama, I am here sitting for Mei Rong Zhang, and her four other partners. Okabe: Please describe your business. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 14 OF 63 Yoneyama: It is a very popular Japanese restaurant in Kona, originally found by Shi Feng Zhang, actually the brother of Mei Rong, and then he is transferring his interest to his sister and her partners because they run it. Okabe: Okay, have you received the application report? Yoneyama: Yes. Okabe: Any changes to the report? Yoneyama: No. Okabe: Brandon, any report of protests? Gonzalez: Chairperson, this is a sale and transfer, so mailed notices are not required, only publication in the newspaper. Publication was made in the West Hawaii Today and westhawaiitoday.com on Saturday, April 12, 2025. We have received no protests to this application. Okabe: Any public testimony? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. Commissioners, do you have any discussion or questions? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: If not, can I have a motion to close public hearing? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to close the public hearing. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to close the public hearing; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Moved and seconded, discussion to the motion, Commissioners? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 15 OF 63 Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve or deny Application No. T24-30? Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, move to approve Application No. T24-30, pending final inspection. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application No. T24-30, Sakura Kona LLC, dba Sakura Japanese Restaurant, for a Sale and Transfer of the Restaurant Beer and Wine liquor license, Category A, currently held by Sakura Japanese Restaurant Inc., dba Sakura Japanese Restaurant, located at the Crossroads Shopping Center, 75-1027 Henry Street, Suite No. 108B, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, TMK: 3-7-5-004-054, pending final inspection; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 16 OF 63 VI. Preliminary Hearings (10:24 AM) NEXT TWO ITEMS WERE TAKEN AT ONCE 1. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10: 24 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: AND 2. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 24-32 One Spot Hawaii LLC One Spot (Retail) 28-2903 Hawaii Belt Road, Pepe`ekeo, Hawaii 2-8-007:068 Original Retail General liquor license 24-33 One Spot Hawaii LLC One Spot (Dispenser) 28-2903 Hawaii Belt Road, Pepe`ekeo, Hawaii 2-8-007:068 Original Dispenser General liquor license, Category B 1 Representing applicant: Julia Chinen, and John Chinen, Jr., Co -owners. Okabe: Can you please state your name and relationship the to the business? Chinen (Julia): My name is Julia Chinen, and I am 50% owner. Chinen (John): John Chinen, Jr., 50% owner. Okabe: Can you describe the business? Chinen (Julia): Yes, this is a new commercial building in Pepe`ekeo right on Highway 19, it's on a 1-acre parcel, we're currently in construction, we have 37 parking stalls and approximately 7,500 square foot building under roof. Our general store is comprised of about 5,500 square feet and it will house True Value Hardware, some grocery and a commercial kitchen to carry grab-n-go deli items. We also have a small police storefront space that we are planning on leasing out to the Hawaii County Police for them to do reports and to respond to calls. We also have an agreement with Hawaii Gas to offer a dispenser there for the public to come and fill their 5-gallon tanks. There is also a tenant space aside from the general store that we would like to open a caf6/wine bar. There's a space above the commercial kitchen in the main general store which we would like to offer some sushi, so we're planning on a sushi bar in that space. We've been connected with the community over the course of planning and now construction, and attended various community meetings, and we've gotten a lot of support from our members but our entire goal from the beginning was to serve the customers on the Hamakua coast. Currently, there's not too much offering as far as MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 17 OF 63 hot foods or hardware or grocery, so we've been really pleasantly embraced by the community and we're very excited. We plan on opening our doors September 27t" of 2025, with a soft opening September 20t". We have a pretty great POS (point of sale) system and Epicor system that will help us facilitate the sales throughout this project once we open, and yeah we're just excited. We're looking for a retail license as well as a dispenser license to serve alcohol. Chinen (John): We're trying to reach out to as much concerns as possible, even concerns that, I'm a retired police officer from Honolulu for 30 years, so that was my concept was to bring in the Police Department, right? And they accepted, so that's a real plus for the community right there, 24-hour access, two parking stalls for them the whole time. I remember how that was when I was a police officer, they have some place to go and write reports and stuff, right? And the community really, they like that because there's really nothing out there, that's kind of like the border, right? So, we got that, we reached out to the road engineers because we had concerns about that before even, I already kind of know anticipating what possibilities could happen, and they're working on actually putting out speed humps, and then the lights. So, we had gone to the meetings, we talked to the Mayor, we've spoken to pretty much everyone that we could speak to from the very get go. The President of the community is really in close contact with us also, so any concerns we're willing to address, and like we said we just want to give back to the community. We want to make sure the community has some place that they can go and eat, someplace that they can go and shop, and there's really nothing out there at this point, right? Chinen (Julia): It's been a long haul, we acquired the property about eight years ago, so a lot of it was planning and making sure that, it almost was like it was our last shot to make sure we could fit everything on one acre and once you put parking, it doesn't leave you too much. And we just wanted to address as many concerns as possible for the community in that area. We have a housing facility right next door, federal housing that houses about 600 residents, and then we have Kulaimano Elderly which is about 200 right across the street. So, for them it's like walking distance, so in the very beginning when you know, this was years ago before we even went into permitting, we knocked on those doors. Chinen (John): We walked. Chinen (Julia): And we asked them like door-to-door, like what do you need? Like, oh we need food, and what about hardware? And so you know, it took a while and we also contacted the people down in the gated community on the coastline, and also the 2,500 single-family homes in like a one -mile radius to this location. We didn't obviously go to everyone, but we tried to sporadically visit some homes, and it seems that no matter what economic level, everyone really needs those necessities. It's food, hardware to fix your items in your home, whether you're renting or you own your own home, and also groceries was a big deal. So, we're really excited about True Value Hardware, they're probably gonna occupy about maybe 55% of that general store section, and then the rest will be grocery. And, we're being very, very careful in selecting the inventory and making sure that, because the space isn't big, that we MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 18 OF 63 carry all the necessary items to fix your toilet, or to fix your sink, even the groceries. So we're working with True Value on that side, and then C&S Wholesale Grocers for the grocery side. The commercial kitchen is about 600 square feet, which could probably fit about four cooks at one time, and we're excited to say that we've already hired about three full-time cooks, we have about three retail cashiers on the main floor already hired, and we're looking to hire more. So, in the bigger scheme of things, you know of course we want to bring the necessities, but we also feel like we're supporting employment out in that area, because for the first time it's like people can live and work in the same community, and Pepe`ekeo is extremely special. We're kind of transplants from Honolulu, we moved here about five years ago from Honolulu, but we've been visiting the Big Island for the last 20 years. I have my real estate brokers license so we've been connected with the Big Island for a long time, but now we're wholly invested in Pepe`ekeo because now we reside there as well. But yeah, we're excited finally, it took a long time but we're excited that it's in progress and probably, certificate of completion, we're hoping end of July. And that'll give us time for the True Value team to fly down and help us merchandise, C&S Grocers to help us merchandise so that we're ready for the public late September. Okabe: Okay, any other questions? Greenwell: According to your application here, it shows you only have a five-year lease. Chinen (John): With the Police Department? Greenwell: No, with the landowner? Chinen (John): We are the landowners. Chinen (Julia): GEC Development, we're both members of, 50 / 50, and then One Spot is like the tenant, so we're also members of that, so we have a five-year lease. think that there was an option to extend additionally but we're the same people. Greenwell: Okay. Gonzalez: Yes I see that, Commissioner Greenwell, page 4, and then there is the option for four successive five-year periods for another 20 years. Chinen (Julia): So, there's two entities but we're both 50 /50 members of each entity. Okabe: So, you did receive the application report? Chinen (Julia): Yes, sir. Okabe: Any changes to the report? Chinen: No, sir. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 19 OF 63 Okabe: No changes, thank you. Any other public testimony? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Okay, any other questions, Commissioners? Taniguchi: I have a question, so you'll be running the whole thing then? Chinen (Julia): Yes. Taniguchi: Both the hardware and the grocery side? Chinen (Julia): Yes, I brought him out of retirement, I promised him retirement when moving to the Big Island, but. Chinen (John): Actually, I retired then I took over the airport security, then I was up at Kamehameha Schools, did Kamehameha's security, and now finally as of December 1st am totally retired. Chinen (Julia): Well, not really because I told him that at breakfast this morning. Chinen (John): No, I feel like I am for now so. Chinen (Julia): I said, how does it feel being retired because it's gonna last a couple months because after that it's go time. Chinen (John): Yes, I think it's going to be worse than when I was actually working. Taniguchi: So, is there a significance, is that your logo? Chinen (John): Yes, this shirt? Taniguchi: Yes. Chinen (John): Yes, this is going to be the logo, it's going to have that Taniguchi: So, what's that spot? Chinen (John): One spot, it's called One Spot. Taniguchi: So, there's nothing inside that circle? Chinen (John): No, it's just a yellow thing, I don't know how you designed this. Chinen (Julia): No, well I don't know, you know online they say that the yellow, like people think of food for some reason, and the circle is like a plate, I don't know. But you know, it was catchy and it was free so I figured I just did that, but we will have a MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 20 OF 63 monument sign on the highway on the corner, on the Hilo makai corner of the property, and yeah, it's nice because it's visible on Highway 19. 1 mean not only are we going to serve the community but also the people that drive, you know the Hamakua coast to get to work, the tourists that go to Akaka Falls. Chinen (John): I think we're the only commercial building that's actually elevated above the highway yet we're on the highway. So, you know how you have Kimura's, the post office, going to the meetings, there's so many complaints about the post office and that small store because, and we live on the downside so I deal with that everyday too, yeah, and it's dangerous. If somebody were to veer off the highway, and people double park and they don't even go into the stalls by the post office, so it could be a real big problem. But our establishment is actually elevated above the highway, so the driveway is on the street on the top, and if a car ever came off the highway, it would never hit no one anyway, it would hit the embankment. Chinen (Julia): So, there's a turning lane coming from Honoka`a, and there's one coming from Hilo onto Ka`akepa. So, you turn up Ka`akepa as if you're going to the credit union on the top, but you take the first right on Kumula, we're right across from that volunteer firehouse. The next is the retirement, and then across is that federal housing that goes up. We're going to be accepting SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer), we're going to do some specials for the elderly because they're right across the street, and maybe do even food delivery in the mornings, lunch, and dinner, so yeah, we want to be very connected with the community. Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, I don't have a question but I have a comment, congratulations, it sounds awesome. Chinen (Julia): Thank you. Nishimoto: It sounds as though you're going to need more than 37 parking stalls. Chinen (Julia): Well, we hope so, we hope so, yeah. Chinen (John): The parking lot is pretty big, yeah it's a pretty big parking lot, I was kind of surprised when I saw it, the building is pretty big, I'm kind of surprised. I don't know if you guys drove up there but it's big. So, the parking lot is a pretty nice size parking lot. Chinen (Julia): So, I think contacting Ed Sniffen about the highway traffic, I was concerned about the downside Pepe`ekeo, thinking that okay well go up to the store and go get milk, and just crossing that whizzing you know of Highway 19, it just it would concern me, and even us when we would go across the street across the highway, we would have to run, okay go now you know it's like. So now like he said, they have agreed to put the humps and the delineators, and then it goes in stages like he said. So, if they deem that that's not sufficient though, they'll keep going you know, we'll see. But we just all these things, you know yes, we want to sell and we want to you know, we want the business to prosper, but it's like you have to think about all the affects around MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 21 OF 63 this business and how we're going to affect the community in that way. But we were going to keep our lights on, in his experience in the Police Department really helps be aware of other things that we're bringing to the community, so yeah thank you. Gonzalez: As the applicant alluded to myself and the Licensing Officer Stacie Waltjen, we did do a site visit, that's how Stacie got all the pictures. And the parking stalls are not Honolulu -style like only mini cars fit, it takes into account all the big jumbo gigantic trucks, Hamakua-style and Big Island -style. So, that was nice to see, and then for the Police room, for lack of a better term I'm gonna call it like a little sub room, yeah? Chinen (John): Yes. Gonzalez: So, what area did you work in Honolulu? Chinen (John): I worked all over, my last 5 years was Waikiki. Gonzalez: So, Waikiki had a sub station. Chinen (John): Yes. Gonzalez: Right by the pavilions. Chinen (John): Right by the Duke statue. Gonzalez: And that helped address community concerns and business concerns. Chinen (John): Yes, and that was part of the question I asked them because you know didn't, I know the Chief because the Chief is from Honolulu, yeah? Yeah but, I wanted to make sure like okay, you guys not going just hide over here, right? What is this, mean you know I wanted to know because a lot of the spaces they actually put those blue signs that say "Police", so that people will know that the police is there if they want to try and see if they're in, right? So, I want to just make sure and ask them like, will you guys take reports directly from here, and their answer was yes. If we're here and somebody walks up to us and knocks on our door, we're not going to tell them call 911. And that's when I said okay good, because that's what I was hoping you know that would happen. So, they will and just the fact that the driving distance from Hilo to that, and then I think the next one is where, Laupahoehoe? Yeah so that's kind of like the border right there, so it's a really good spot to have police presence that people know that you know, there's a good chance that an officer could be sitting in there, and like said we're giving them 24-hour access, yeah? And we have a robust camera system I'm putting up too, 224 cameras in the area too, so yeah we're trying to cover everything as much as possible. Gonzalez: Thank you very much. Chinen (John): Thank you. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 22 OF 63 Okabe: I'd like to entertain a motion to approve or deny Application No. 24-32. Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, move to approve Application No. 24-32. If approved, public hearing to be held July 3, 2025, in Hilo. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application No. 24-32, One Spot Hawaii LLC, dba One Spot (Retail), for an Original Retail General liquor license, located at 28-2903 Hawaii Belt Road, Pepe`ekeo, Hawaii, TMK: 2-8-007:068, with public hearing to be held on July 3, 2025, in Hilo, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Okay, moved and seconded, any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve or deny Application No. 24-33? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, move to approve Application No. 24-33. If approved, public hearing to be held July 3, 2025, in Hilo. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 23 OF 63 Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application No. 24-33, One Spot Hawaii LLC, dba One Spot (Dispenser), for an Original Dispenser General liquor license, Category 131, located at 28-2903 Hawaii Belt Road, Pepe`ekeo, Hawaii, TMK: 2-8-007:068, with public hearing to be held on July 3, 2025, in Hilo, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 3. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:41 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 24-34 Reel Aloha Poke and Fish Co. LLC Reel Aloha Poke and Fish Co. 81-6641 Hawaii Belt Road, #5, Kealakekua, Hawaii 8-1-012:002 Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B 1 Representing applicant: Manao Alu, and Weston Uemura, Co -owners. Okabe: Can you please state your name and the relationship to the business? Alu: Hi, Mana`o Alu, 50% owner. Uemura: Weston Uemura, and I'm also 50% owner. Okabe: Okay, please describe your business? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 24 OF 63 Alu: We're a poke and fish restaurant so we sell poke bowls, and different types of poke options, and then poke by the pound, also sashimi platters, stuff like that all seafood. Okabe: Okay, did you receive the application report? Alu: Yes. Okabe: Are there any changes to the report? Alu: No. Okabe: Any other public testimony? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. Commissioners have any questions? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve or deny Application No. 24-34? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to approve Application No. 24-34, and if approved, the public hearing to be held July 3, 2025, in Hilo. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve Application No. 24-34, Reel Aloha Poke and Fish Co. LLC, dba Reel Aloha Poke and Fish Co., for an Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at 81-6641 Hawaii Belt Road, #5, Kealakekua, Hawaii, TMK: 8-1-012:002, with public hearing to be held on July 3, 2025, in Hilo, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Moved and seconded, any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: Anybody oppose? There was no opposition by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 25 OF 63 Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 4. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:43 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TM K: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 24-36 Tommy Bahama R&R Holdings, Inc. Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Suite A-1, Waikoloa, Hawaii 6-9-008:017 Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B 1 Representing applicant: Robert Ichikawa, Esq., Authorized Agent, John Yuen, General Manager. Okabe: Can you please state your name and relationship to the business? Ichikawa: Good morning, Mr. Chair and members of the Commission, Mr. Gonzalez, Robert Ichikawa, representing Tommy Bahama R&R Holdings, Inc., doing business as Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar. To my right is John Yuen, General Manager. Yuen: Hi, I'm John Yuen, I'm the General Manager at the Tommy Bahama Restaurant and Bar at The Shops at Mauna Lani. Okabe: Can you please describe your business? Yuen: We're a casual restaurant and a small bar, serving seafood, steaks, and various drinks just for the area. Okabe: Okay, you not selling any shirts or nothing, right? Yuen: We have a retail store that's downstairs also that's separate, but the Marlin Bar will be a combination of both retail and restaurant that's more connected. It's a smaller footprint so that's why we call it the Marlin Bar, it's separate from the restaurant and bar concept. Ichikawa: Overall, the concept is to have retail adjoining next to the bar area, and that they can be served food and drink but also go into the retail area as well. Okabe: Have you received the application report? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 26 OF 63 Ichikawa: Yes. Okabe: Are there any changes to the report? Ichikawa: No changes to the report. Okabe: No changes, any other public testimony? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. Commissioners, do you have any questions? Taniguchi: So where is this going to be, it says Suite A-1, is that a new section? Yuen: No, so you know the building where if you're looking at the area where Macaroni Grill is, the wine market, and then that building that's never been occupied at all, the one on the far right, there's not even flooring in it, we're pouring cement this week. So, there's never been anyone there, so. Okabe: Mr. Greenwell, you have a question? Greenwell: You said the bar and the retail will be adjoining each other or next to each other, is there any demarcation between the retail and the bar? Ichikawa: Well, there's an outdoor seating and a bar area, and then as you enter into the retail, there is a break in the walls but you can freely enter in and out. So employees will be monitoring all the different patrons if they choose to go and shop while they come back for their food, and they'll be monitored as they go through. Greenwell: Okay. Okabe: I'd like to entertain a motion to approve or deny Application No. 24-36? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to approve Application No. 24-36. If approved, public hearing to be held July 3, 2025, in Hilo. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve Application No. 24-36, Tommy Bahama R&R Holdings, Inc., dba Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar, for an Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Suite A-1, Waikoloa, Hawaii, TMK: 6-9-008:017, with public hearing to be held on July 3, 2025, in Hilo, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 27 OF 63 Okabe: Moved and seconded, any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Changed the Order of Business: The following item was taken out of order VIII. New Business (10:46AM) 5. Change in Members/Officers/Directors Submitted for Approval (10:46 AM) e. Safeway Inc., dba Safeway Store #1117, dba Safeway Stores, Inc. #2893 (Maka'ala), dba Safeway (Hilo Fuel Center), rescind approval (10:46 AM) dated December 5, 2024, due to The Kroger Co., no longer purchasing 100% Common Stock of Albertsons Companies, Inc., sole owner of Albertsons Safeway LLC, dba Safeway Inc.; by letter received April 18, 2025; of its Retail General liquor licenses, located at 75-971 Henry Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, and 381 East Maka`ala Street, Hilo, Hawaii. Representing licensee: Robert Ichikawa, Esq., Authorized Agent, Ichikawa: Robert Ichikawa representing ultimately Safeway Inc., and just one point of clarification that the sole owner of Albertsons Safeway LLC (Limited Liability Company) is also the sole owner of Safeway Inc., who's doing business as Safeway. So, Safeway Inc. is the licensee. Okabe: Okay, can I ask that you describe the business? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 28 OF 63 Ichikawa: General grocery retail store. Okabe: If you can explain the rescinding of the approval dated December 5t"? Ichikawa: Sure, initially there was a plan for The Kroger Co. (Company) to acquire Albertsons Companies at the top level but the transaction did not go through. So, what's required is more of a courtesy notice of the ultimate parent changing, the licensee remains the same. The parent company and the licensee remain the same, it was just more of a notification of a change in ownership above which doesn't really require approval, but we wanted to make sure that everyone was aware of the potential change. And as a result of that, we filed a notice letter to Mr. Takase and following that since the transaction did not go through. Again, we advised the Department that the transaction was no longer there so, again clarifying that everything is the same as it started before. Okabe: Are there any questions or discussion in regards to this? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Can I have a motion to rescind approval dated December 5, 2024? Greenwell: I'll make the motion to rescind the approval dated December 5, 2024. Okabe: Can I have a second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to rescind the approval dated December 5, 2024, due to The Kroger Co., no longer purchasing 100% Common Stock of Albertsons Companies, Inc., sole owner of Albertsons Safeway LLC, dba Safeway Inc., by letter received April 18, 2025; of its Retail General liquor licenses, located at 75-971 Henry Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, and 381 East Maka`ala Street, Hilo, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Okay, any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 29 OF 63 There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Returned to the Order of Business VI. Preliminary Hearings (10:50 AM) 5. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10: 50 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: T24-37 LBC Volcano LLC Lanikai Brewing Company 19-4005 Haunani Road, Volcano, Hawaii 1-9-005:019 Sale and Transfer of the Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, currently held by `Ohelo Cafe LLC dba `Ohelo Caf6 Representing applicant: Steve Haumschild, Owner. Okabe: Please state your name and the relationship to the business. Haumschild: My name is Steve Haumschild, I'm the founder of Lanikai Brewing Company, and Lanikai Brewing Company owns LBC Volcano LLC (Limited Liability Company) wholly. Okabe: Okay, can you describe your business? Haumschild: Our business has multiple different components, the primary business is production of liquor, beer, and spirits, and then we also have a restaurant group and we're building more direct to consumer restaurant components of it. We also have quite a big line of mocktails non-alcoholic drinks things like that, we're very family -friendly at all of our locations. Okabe: Okay, you received the application report? Haumschild: Yes. Okabe: Any changes? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 30 OF 63 Haumschild: Just one addition, under other licenses held, I also have a Class 2 Restaurant license on `O`ahu for a restaurant we're building over there, as well as a Class 18 satellite location as well. Gonzalez: The Class 18 is also for Oahu? Haumschild: Correct, yes. Gonzalez: What is the name? Haumschild: That's under Lanikai Brewing Company. Okabe: Any other public testimony from the public? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Discussion, Commissioners or questions? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, can I entertain a motion to approve or deny Application No. T24-37? Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, move to approve Application No. T24-37. If approved, public hearing to be held June 5, 2025, in Kona. Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll second that. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application No. T24-37, LBC Volcano LLC, dba Lanikai Brewing Company, for a Sale and Transfer of the Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, currently held by `Ohelo Cafe LLC dba `Ohelo Cafe, located at 19-4005 Haunani Road, Volcano, Hawaii, TMK: 1-9-005:019, with public hearing to be held on June 5, 2025, in Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Okay, discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 31 OF 63 There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. VII. Unfinished Business (10:52 AM) Okabe: There is no Unfinished Business. VIII. New Business (10:52AM) 1. South Kona Stills LLC, dba South Kona Stills LLC, approval of a request to extend the time for issuance of the liquor license for good (10: 52 AM) cause shown for an additional 12 months, from June 1, 2025, to and including June 1, 2026, and approval for Public Hearing a Request for Change of Location, by letter received April 14, 2025, of its Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category A, located at 82-6061 Captain Cook Village Road, Captain Cook, Hawaii. Passage requires finding of good cause pursuant to Rule 4-2(M) of the Rules and Regulations of the Liquor Commission of the County of Hawaii. If the Commission finds good cause, state what that good cause is when making the motion. Representing applicant: Cassidy Tepper, Co-owner. Okabe: Approval of the public hearing for change of location requires a separate motion. Can I ask that you to state your name and relationship to the business? Tepper: Cassidy Tepper, I own a third of the business, and then a third is owned by Brian Tepper, and then the other third by Winston Gamble. Okabe: Okay, I ask you to describe your business? Tepper: So, we're applying for a manufacturing license for South Kona Stills to take citrus products and agricultural fruits and distill it into vodka and gin at some point. Okabe: Okay, explain the extension and the change of location. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 32 OF 63 Tepper: Our original location, we couldn't get variance from the Building Division, so that was an issue, we also faced a little bit of issues with our electrical as well in the initial building. So, because of the concerns there, we are having to choose a new location and build the new building from scratch. Okabe: Commissioners, do you have any questions or discussion in regards to this? Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, so I saw that your building is expected to arrive in June, what does your timeline look like to put up the new building and get everything situated? Tepper: Yes, so it's a prefabricated steel building, and we're going through a program called the HRS 46-88, it's a declaration of compliance for a State preapproved building. And so, it allows us once the building comes and once it's delivered, we should be able to build the building pretty quickly within a couple weeks. What's going to be challenging is getting permits for the electrical and the plumbing, that'll probably take a little bit more time, so maybe three to six months depending on how quickly the County moves with those permits. Okabe: Okay, any other questions, Commissioners? Yeah, Mr. Greenwell. Greenwell: Was it your father that originally came here for the application? Tepper: He did, yes. Greenwell: He had some problems with the neighbors, were those ironed out? Tepper: Those have been ironed out, that's correct. So, with the new location, because I'm the property owner, it's a five -acre parcel of land, the new location will be at the opposite end of the parcel, so we're far enough away from those original parcels that had some complaints, they won't be notified this time around, so it shouldn't be an issue. And, all the parcels on the south side of my property, they're all macadamia nut farms, we've got a bed and breakfast, the owners there they're wonderful people and entrepreneurs, so I don't think we'll run into any issues this time around. Nishimoto: Is that the same driveway you'll be using to get to the new location, or is it a different road? Tepper: It's a different road, yes. So, you enter from the top of the property, Captain Cook Village Place, formerly Captain Cook Road was recently renamed last year. And then I have a farm gate entrance that goes to the very bottom of the property, it's really steep. Nishimoto: Yes, because originally that was some of the issues with the roadway and the traffic and that access. Tepper: Exactly. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 33 OF 63 Nishimoto: So, with the new location that will be eliminated. Tepper: Correct, it shouldn't be an issue, yes. Nishimoto: So, I'm just trying to make sense of this, so you're going to get the building in, it's going to take some time, you anticipate some problems with the electrical and plumbing permits. I need clarification, is the liquor license that he's applying for necessary to do all of that and wait a whole year more, or is it something that you apply for again rather than having two one-year extensions? Gonzalez: Good question, so the liquor license was already approved pending final inspection from other agencies we don't control, and what our rules require is that once it's approved, the license has to be issued within a year, and if it's not the applicant has a remedy to ask for an extension, and the extension can only be up to a year. Otherwise, they're going to have to start the application process all over again, which means renoticing, remailing, reapplying. And so that's why we're grateful that you came in for the extension, we support the request for the extension from the Department's standpoint because we've already done you know, two-thirds to three-quarters of the work already, and to have to start it again with us, if it's avoidable I think it's in everybody's best interest. And, I just wanted to take this opportunity as well, you said you don't have to notice property owners for this change of location, because part of it is you're moving it more into your property, so it's moving further away from the property owners that raised concerns earlier. Tepper: That's correct, yes. Gonzalez: The Commissioner had mentioned that earlier too yeah about the driveway and stuff, so that's why it's also addressing those previous concerns as well. Sorry to hear that the electrical couldn't handle what you guys were envisioning for the first building. Tepper: It's okay, we've got a strategy in place and the new building should address all those concerns, so. Gonzalez: Okay, so did that answer your question? Nishimoto: Yeah, so I'm hoping that you'll get to get it done within this next extension. Tepper: I believe we can do that, yes. I spoke yesterday with Chris Domino, and so he approves all the declarations of compliance applications, I should have an approval for the building end of next week he said. So, the building I think is in good shape, it's just a matter of working through the other agencies, yeah. Nishimoto: Thank you. Gonzalez: Thank you, Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Okay, any other questions? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 34 OF 63 Taniguchi: I have a question for Brandon, so the license was approved at the other location, so if you move it, that's okay? Gonzalez: That's a very good question, so if you notice on the agenda today, we have a motion to approve the extension, and then there's a second motion specific for the change of location, because what's gonna happen is the change of location is going to get another hearing. Taniguchi: Oh okay, so it's not automatic. Gonzalez: Yeah, it's not automatic, yeah. So, you know how at the beginning of the meeting today we had public hearings, and then we just finished preliminary hearings where you look at the application and say okay you can have your public hearing now. The secondary motion is saying, okay for explaining to us now you can have the public hearing for the change of location. Taniguchi: So, he has to go through all that notification process if there's people within 100 feet? Gonzalez: Yes, for the new location. Taniguchi: But for the license part, it's no problem. Gonzalez: Yes, correct. Taniguchi: Okay, that clarifies, I was kind of confused on that part, okay. Gonzalez: Yes, so the change of location the one's we typically see it's like they're moving from one area or to an entirely different parcel. This one they're kind of just moving to a location on the same parcel, but our notification requirements are from the premises, yeah so that's why that has to be addressed. Tepper: Okay. Taniguchi: Thank you. Okabe: Any other questions? There was no further discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Okay, Commissioners I'd like to entertain a motion to approve with good cause the request to extend the time of issuance of the liquor license, and please state your good cause. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 35 OF 63 Taniguchi: I move to approve the extension and the good cause being that they have to get everything, all the ducks in line with the permits and everything. The building side looks like it's okay, but with the electrical and plumbing might take a little bit longer. Okabe: Okay, second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the request to extend the time for issuance of the liquor license for good cause shown for an additional 12 months, from June 1, 2025, to and including June 1, 2026, by letter received April 14, 2025, of its Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category A, located at 82-6061 Captain Cook Village Road, Captain Cook, Hawaii TMK: 8-2-003:024; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Moved and seconded, is there a discussion on the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: I'd like to entertain a motion to approve the public hearing for the change of location. Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to approve the public hearing for the change of location. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 36 OF 63 Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the Public Hearing request for Change of Location, of its Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category A, located at 82-6061 Captain Cook Village Road, Captain Cook, Hawaii; TMK: 8-2-003:024; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Moved and seconded, any discussion to the motion? Yes. Waltjen: Shall we have a date for the public hearing because I believe we're going to set it for July 3rd, 2025? Okabe: So, we're going to have it on July 3rd for the public hearing? Gonzalez: If the maker of the motion is okay with that amendment that clarifies the date, Mr. Greenwell? Greenwell: Yes, I'll make the motion with the public hearing date of July 3rd, 2025. Okabe: Any other discussion to the motion? There was no further discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 2. MNS, Ltd., dba Island Gourmet Markets, approval of Application for an Increase in Licensed Premises and Alteration Permit, to include two-story (11:04 AM) storage building, approximately 2,950 square feet (1,475 square feet per floor) to its current licensed premises; of its Retail General liquor license, located at the Queens' MarketPlace, 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa, Hawaii MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 37 OF 63 Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve? Taniguchi: Move to approve. Okabe: Can I have a second? Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the Application for an Increase in Licensed Premises and Alteration Permit, to include a two-story storage building, approximately 2,950 square feet (1,475 square feet per floor) to its current licensed premises; of its Retail General liquor license, located at the Queens' MarketPlace, 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa, Hawaii, TMK: 6-9-008:017; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 3. Papaaloa Market & Cafe LLC, dba Papaaloa Country Store & Cafe, approval of Application for Change to a Class 2, Restaurant license from (11:04 AM) its Class 5, Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, located at 35-2032 Old Mamalahoa Highway, Papaaloa, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 38 OF 63 Greenwell: Greenwell, make the motion to approve. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the Application for Change to a Class 2, Restaurant license from its Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, located at 35-2032 Old Mamalahoa Highway, Papa`aloa, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Moved and seconded, discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 4. Request to Extend the Time for Issuance of License Submitted for Approval (11:05 AM) a. 4K Hawaii Pacific LLC, dba 4K Yakiniku Bar & Grill, RE: Application No. 23-16, approval of request to extend the time for issuance of the liquor license for good cause shown for an additional 12 months, from May 2, 2025, to and including May 2, 2026, by letter received April 7, 2025, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at the Waikoloa Plaza, 68-1820 Waikoloa Road, #E104, Waikoloa, Hawaii. Passage requires finding of good cause pursuant to Rule 4-2(M) of the Rules and Regulations of the Liquor Commission of the County of Hawaii. If the Commission finds good cause, state what that good cause is when making the motion. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 39 OF 63 Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve with good cause? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to approve and it's based upon the fire inspection, the plumbing inspection, and then the building inspector giving the final certificate of occupancy. Okabe: Can I have a second? Wilkinson: Commissioner Wilkinson, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the request to extend the time issuance of the liquor license for good cause shown for an additional 12 months, from May 2, 2025, to and including May 2, 20269 by letter received April 7, 2025, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at the Waikoloa Plaza, 68-1820 Waikoloa Road, #E104, Waikoloa, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Wilkinson. Okabe: Okay, any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. b. Paradise Express LLC, dba Paradise Express, RE: Application No. 19-18, approval of request to extend the time for issuance of the (11:06 AM) liquor license for good cause shown for an additional 12 months, from May 7, 2025, to and including May 7, 2026, by letter received April 14, 2025, of its Retail General liquor license, located at 84-4811 Hawaii Belt Road, Captain Cook, Hawaii. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 40 OF 63 Passage requires finding of good cause pursuant to Rule 4-2(M) of the Rules and Regulations of the Liquor Commission of the County of Hawaii. If the Commission finds good cause, state what that good cause is when making the motion. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve with good cause? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to approve, with the Planning Department and Hawaii Petroleum moving to advance the removal and compliance of gas pumps with the Public Works and Fire Department. Okabe: Okay, is there a second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the request to extend the time for issuance of the liquor license for good cause shown for an additional 12 months, from May 7, 2025, to and including May 7, 2026, by letter received April 14, 2025, of its Retail General liquor license, located at 84-4811 Hawaii Belt Road, Captain Cook, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Okay, discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 41 OF 63 C. Treehouse Next Door, Inc., dba Petals & Provisions, RE: Application No. 23-18, approval of request to extend the time for issuance of the liquor (11:08 AM) license for good cause shown for an additional 12 months, from April 4, 2025, to and including April 4, 2026, by letter received April 14, 2025, of its Retail General liquor license, located at 76-5905 Mamalahoa Highway, Holualoa, Hawaii . Passage requires finding of good cause pursuant to Rule 4-2(M) of the Rules and Regulations of the Liquor Commission of the County of Hawaii. If the Commission finds good cause, state what that good cause is when making the motion. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve with good cause? Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, move to approve with good cause as they are dealing with delays with the Building Department, also they are trying to address issues that have arose from two other Departments, Wastewater and Building. Okabe: Is the a second? Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve the request to extend the time for issuance of the liquor license for good cause shown for an additional 12 months, from April 4, 2025, to and including April 4, 20269 by letter received April 14, 2025, of its Retail General liquor license, located at 76-5905 Mamalahoa Highway, Holualoa, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Okay, moved and seconded, is there any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 42 OF 63 The motion was carried unanimously. 5. Change in Members/Officers/Directors Submitted for Approval (11:09 AM) (11:09 AM) a. Food Pantry, Ltd., dba Whalers General Store #230, dba Holo Holo Market, approval of Change in Officers as follows: • Removal of Maxine Parker, Vice President, effective March 31, 2024; • Change in Title of Stacy Waiau-Omori, from Senior Vice President to Vice President; effective March 4, 2025; by form received April 3, 2025; of its Retail General liquor licenses, located at the Kings' Shops, 69-250 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Suite A-5, Waikoloa, Hawaii; and 78-128 `Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve? Taniguchi: Move to approve. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the Change in Officers as follows: Removal of Maxine Parker, Vice President, effective March 31, 2024; Change in Title of Stacy Waiau- Omori, from Senior Vice President to Vice President, effective March 4, 2025, by form received April 3, 2025; of its Retail General liquor licenses, located at the Kings' Shops, 69-250 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Suite A-5, Waikoloa, Hawaii; and 78-128 `Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Okay, moved and seconded, discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 43 OF 63 There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. THE NEXT TWO ITEMS WERE TAKEN AT ONCE b. Foodland Super Market, Limited, dba Foodland (Keaau), dba Foodland Farms, dba Foodland Super Market — Waimea, dba Sack (11: 10 AM) `N Save (Kinoole), dba Sack `N Save (Kona), dba Sack `N Save (Puainako), approval of Change in Officers as follows: • Removal of Maxine Parker, Vice President, effective March 31, 2024; • Change in Title of Stacy Waiau-Omori, from Senior Vice President to Vice President, effective March 4, 2025; by form received April 3, 2025; of its Retail General liquor licenses, for all Hawaii Island store locations. Gonzalez: Mr. Chair? Okabe: Yes? Gonzalez: Item Nos. 5(a), (b), and (c) are all for the Sack `N Save, Sullivan Family, Malama Markets, so you could also call Item No. (c) for approval of Change in Officers. C. The Kalama Beach Corporation, dba Anytime Bar, dba Malama Market (Honokaa), dba Malama Market — Ocean View, dba Malama (11: 10 AM) Market Pahoa, approval of Change in Officers as follows: • Removal of Maxine Parker, Vice President, effective March 31, 2024; • Change in Title of Stacy Waiau-Omori, from Senior Vice President to Vice President, effective March 4, 2025; by form received April 3, 2025, of its Retail General and Restaurant General liquor licenses, Category B2, for all Hawaii Island locations. Taniguchi: Move to approve. Okabe: Okay, second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 44 OF 63 Commissioner Taniguchi for Item No. 5(b), moved to approve the Change in Officers as follows: Removal of Maxine Parker, Vice President, effective March 31, 2024; Change in Title of Stacy Waiau-Omori, from Senior Vice President to Vice President, effective March 4, 2025, by form received April 3, 2025; of its Retail General liquor license, for all Hawaii Island store locations; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. AND Commissioner Taniguchi for Item No. 5(c), moved to approve the Change in Officers as follows: Removal of Maxine Parker, Vice President, effective March 31, 2024; Change in Title of Stacy Waiau-Omori, from Senior Vice President to Vice President, effective March 4, 2025, by form received April 3, 2025; of its Retail General and Restaurant General liquor licenses, Category B2, for all Hawaii Island locations; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Moved and seconded, discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 45 OF 63 d. Puna Plantation Hawaii, Limited, dba KTA Super Stores #1 (Keawe), dba KTA Super Stores #2 (Kailua-Kona), dba KTA Super Stores #3 (11:11 AM) (Puainako), dba KTA Super Stores - Keauhou (#7), dba KTA Super Stores - Kamuela (#8), dba KTA Super Stores #9 (Waikoloa), dba KTA Express Kealakekua (#11), dba K. Takata Store, approval of Change in Officers as follows: • Removal of Glenn Kodama, Vice President of Human Resources, and the Change in Title of Jeremy Chong, from Vice President of Information Technology to Senior Vice President, effective March 14, 2025; • Removal of Craig Hamamoto, Executive Vice President of Grocery & Non -Foods, and the Change in Title of Leslie Hanano, from Vice President of Store Operations to Senior Vice President, effective April 4, 2025; by form received April 15, 2025, of its Retail General liquor licenses, for all Hawaii Island store locations. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve? Greenwell: Greenwell, make the motion to approve. Okabe: Okay, is there any second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the Change in Officers as follows: Removal of Glenn Kodama, Vice President of Human Resources, and the Change in Title of Jeremy Chong, from Vice President of Information Technology to Senior Vice President, effective March 14, 2025; Removal of Craig Hamamoto, Executive Vice President of Grocery & Non -Foods, and the Change in Title of Leslie Hanano, from Vice President of Store Operations to Senior Vice President, effective April 4, 2025; by form received April 15, 2025, of its Retail General liquor licenses, for all Hawaii Island store locations; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 46 OF 63 Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. ITEM ALREADY TAKEN OUT OF ORDER e. Safeway Inc., dba Safeway Store #1117, dba Safeway Stores, Inc. #2893 (Maka'ala), dba Safeway (Hilo Fuel Center), rescind approval dated December 5, 2024, due to The Kroger Co., no longer purchasing 100% Common Stock of Albertsons Companies, Inc., sole owner of Albertsons Safeway LLC, dba Safeway Inc.; by letter received April 18, 2025; of its Retail General liquor licenses, located at 75-971 Henry Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, and 381 East Maka`ala Street, Hilo, Hawaii. 6. Permits Issued for Ratification (11: 12 AM) a. Puna Plantation Hawaii, Limited, dba KTA Super Stores #1 (Keawe), ratification of Application for Entertainment Permit, for an event on April (11: 12 AM) 26, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on April 7, 2025) of its Retail General liquor license, located at 321 Keawe Street, Hilo, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify? Wilkinson: Commissioner Wilkinson, so moved. Okabe: Okay, is there a second? Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Wilkinson moved to ratify Permits Issued for Ratification, Item No. 6(a), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 47 OF 63 Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. b. HabanBilan Farm and Forest LLC, dba Kvasir's Mead, ratification of Application for Product Tasting by Class 1 Manufacturer's License for (11: 12 AM) an event on May 17, 2025, located at the Mokupapapa Discovery Center, 76 Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii, approved by Director Gerald Takase on April 9, 2025, of its Manufacturer Wine liquor license, located at 11-3245 Hibiscus Street, Mountain View, Hawaii. e. Kuleana Spirits, Inc., dba Kuleana Rum Works, ratification of Application for Product Tasting by Class 1 Manufacturer's License for an event on May 21, 2025, located at the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa, approved by Administrative Officer Brandon Gonzalez on April 15, 2025, of its Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category B1, located at the Queens' MarketPlace, 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Spaces H5, H6 and H7, Waikoloa, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify? Taniguchi: Move to ratify. Greenwell: Second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to ratify Permits Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 6(b) and 6(e), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 48 OF 63 Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. C. Mauna Kea Resort LLC, dba Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, ratification of Application for Game Permit, for an event on May 23, 2025, approved (11: 13 AM) by Director Gerald Takase on April 10, 2025; of its Hotel liquor license, located at 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Drive, Kamuela, Hawaii. g. Christopher Camero Memorial VFW Post 12122, dba VFW Post 12122, ratificaton of Application for Game Permits, for an event on May 22, 2025; and events from May 1-31, 2025; approved by Director Gerald Takase on April 21, 2025; of its Special General liquor license, located at 74-5543 Kaiwi Street, Suite 3-A185a and 3-A185b, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. h. Outrigger Kona Resort LLC, dba Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa, ratification of Application for Game Permit for an event on May 3, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on April 23, 2025, of its Hotel liquor license, located at 78-128 Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Okabe: Motion to ratify? Nishimoto: Motion to ratify. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to ratify Permits Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 6(c), 6(g), and 6(h), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Discussion to the motion? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 49 OF 63 There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All those opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. d. Masaki Miyazawa, Solicitor, Wismettac Asian Foods, ratification of Application for Solicitor's Permit, approved by Administrative Officer (11: 14 AM) Brandon Gonzalez on April 9, 2025, of its Wholesaler -General liquor license, located at 331 Libby Street, Honolulu, Hawaii. Okabe: Motion to ratify? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to ratify. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to ratify Permits Issued for Ratification, Item No. 6(d), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Discussion of the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 50 OF 63 Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. f. Kona Tang LLC, dba Shimaichi, ratification of request to transfer liquor inventory to Stay Dream LLC, dba Sushi Cocoro & Udon Noodle, and (11: 14 AM) Hawaiian Ola Brewing Corporation, dba Ola Brew Co., approved by Director Gerald Takase on April 21, 2025, of its Dispenser General liquor license, Category B1, located at the Ali`i Plaza, 75-5742 Kuakini Highway, Suite 103, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify? Greenwell: Greenwell make the motion to ratify. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to ratify Permits Issued for Ratification, Item No. 6(f), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: Any opposed to the motion, "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 51 OF 63 7. Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises Issued for Ratification (11: 15 AM) a. Kuleana Spirits, Inc., dba Kuleana Rum Shack, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on April 27, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on April 4, 2025, of its Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category B 1, located at the Queens' MarketPlace, 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Spaces H5, H6 and H7, Waikoloa, Hawaii. b. SML Hawaii LLC, dba Alebrije Hawaii, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on May 5, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on April 17, 2025, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at The Shops at Mauna Lani, 68-1330 Mauna Lani Drive, Suite 111, Kamuela, Hawaii. C. Napua Hilo LLC, dba Lehua Restaurant at Imiloa, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on April 17, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on April 17, 2025, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at 600 Imiloa Place, Hilo, Hawaii. d. Berj Corporation, dba My Bar, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, to include parking lot for an event on May 10, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on April 22, 2025, of its Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, located at the Luhia Center I, 74-5606 Luhia Street, Spaces Al, A2, A3 and A413, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to ratify. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to ratify Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 7(a) through 7(d), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Moved and seconded, discussion on the motion? Greenwell: Brandon, Alebrije Hawaii, have they been in business for a long time? Gonazalez: So, I recall they just came in for their license the last couple years, so they're pretty recent, yeah. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 52 OF 63 Greenwell: I don't remember hearing that name, okay. Gonazalez: So no, they haven't been in business for a long time, they're fairly new. Okabe: Okay, all in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 8. Acceptance of Report of Gross Revenues of Food and Beverage Sales for Class 2 Restaurant Licensees showing food sales are at (11: 16 AM) least 30% of total gross revenues for the period July 1, 2024 through March 31, 2025, pursuant to Rule 3-1-C and 4-7-A-5 of the Rules and Regulations of the Liquor Commission of the County of Hawaii: A-Bay's Cantina LLC, A-BAY'S ISLAND GRILL; Aloha Vibes Bar & Grill LLC, ALOHA VIBES BAR & GRILL; Anthony's Catering Inc., ANTHONY'S CATERING; The Kalama Beach Corporation, ANYTIME BAR; Ohana Lea, Incorporated, BAMBOO RESTAURANT & GALLERY; Yummy Pineapple Beer Co. LLC, BIANELLIS PIZZA; Big Island Fireart Inc., BIG ISLAND FIREART; Big Island Grill Inc., BIG ISLAND GRILL INC.; Big Island Pizza Inc., BIG ISLAND PIZZA; Big Kahuna Beach Grill LLC, BIG KAHUNA BEACH GRILL; Maluhia Nahele Enterprises, LLC, BLACK ROCK CAFE; Black Rock Pizza, LLC, BLACK ROCK PIZZA; Kawaihae Pizza, Inc., CAFE PESTO HILO BAY; Tiki Guys LLC, CHEEKY TIKI; Chefs and Table Kona LLC, CHEFS AND TABLE; Cipriano's Kitchen Kawaiahe LLC, CIPRIANO'S KITCHEN KAWAIHAE; The Club at Hokuli`a, Inc., CLUB AT HOKULI`A (THE); Coco Cantina Hilo LLC, COCO CANTINA HILO; Paradise Hospitality Group, Inc., COCONUT GRILL; Layne T. Oki, Inc., CRONIES; Foods O' Hawaii Delivery Corp., DA TASTE KONA; Wishard Enterprises, LLC, DOM DE LUCA'S RESTAURANT; DCH, Inc., DON'S GRILL; MCM Group LLC, FAIRWAY GRILL; Fishhopper LLC, FISHHOPPER (THE); MF Waikoloa LLC, FOSTER'S KITCHEN WAIKOLOA; Fumi's Kitchen, LLC, FUMI'S KITCHEN; Puna Chocolate Company, HALE MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 53 OF 63 COCOA; Hana Hou Restaurant Group LLC, HANA HOU RESTAURANT; Happiness Kona LLC, HAPPINESS KONA; Harbor House Kona, LLC, HARBOR HOUSE; Hawaii High Country Lounge, LLC, HAWAII HIGH COUNTRY LOUNGE; HSC Hilo LLC, HAWAIIAN STYLE CAFE - HILO; JDForsberg, LLC, RICO HAWAIIAN COFFEE; Hilo Trading Co., Ltd., HILO BAY CAFE; Hilo Burger Joint LLP, HILO BURGER JOINT; Hilo Pizza, LLC, HILO PIZZA CO.; Bella Pacific Properties LLC, HILO TOWN TAVERN; DJL Holualoa LLC, HOLUALOA FARM KITCHEN; Lam Yim Sin Corporation, HONG KONG CHOP SUEY; Honokaa Public House LLC, HONOKAA PUBLIC HOUSE; Olu Kai, Ltd., HUGGO'S; Daisuki Gyoza LLC, I LUV DUMPLINGS; Aiona Foods, LLC, IPPY'S HAWAIIAN BBQ; Island Hopper Pahoa LLC, ISLAND HOPPER TAPROOM; Maruhiro, Inc., IZAKAYA SHIONO; Big Island Restaurant Group, LLC, JACKIE REY'S O'HANA GRILL KONA; JROG, LLC, JACKIE REY'S OHANA GRILL HILO; Grand 88, LLC, JADE PALACE CHIN ESE RESTAURANT; O&J LLC, JOHNNY'S AT WAIKOLOA VILLAGE; Kai Kona Eats, LLC, KAI EATS+DRINKS; Pahoa Productions LLC, KALEO'S BAR AND GRILL; Pahoa Productions LLC, KALEO'S ORCH I DLAN D; KBXtreme, LLC, KBXTREM E; Dragonfly Hospitality Group, LLC, KEN ICH I PACIFIC; Transcontinental Development (Hawaii) Co., KINGS' COURSE AT WAIKOLOA BEACH GOLF CLUB (THE); Wind & Sea Restaurants, Inc., KONA CANOE CLUB; The Kona Coffee & Tea Company, Inc., KONA COFFEE & TEA COMPANY; Wind & Sea Restaurants, Inc., KONA INN RESTAURANT; Hawaiian Islands Trading Company LLC, KONA SALT FARM; ANAHKAHNA, Inc., KORNER POCKET BAR & GRILL (THE); Lava Lava, LLC, LAVA LAVA BEACH CLUB; Big Island Alehouse, LLC, LAVERNE'S; Napua Hilo LLC, LEHUA RESTAURANT AT IMILOA; Luquin's Mexican Restaurant, Inc., LUQUIN'S 454; Luquin's Mexican Restaurant, Inc., LUQUIN'S CANTINA; Ulu Development LLC, MAGICS BEACH GRILL; A-Bay's Cantina LLC, MAUKA BAR AND GRILL; Contemporary Restaurant Corporation, MERRIMAN'S; Louis Pauole at Miyos Restaurant LLC, MIYO'S RESTAURANT; Moa Kitchen LLC, MOA KITCHEN RESTAURANT; Hilo Sunrise LLC, MOMS HILO; Nani Mau Glory Management, LLC, NANI MAU GARDENS; Honokaa Brothers, LLC, NAPUA AT THE MAUNA LANI BEACH CLUB; Limberg Inc., OCEANS SPORTS BAR AND GRILL; Kailua-Kona Restaurants, Inc., PANCHO AND LEFTY'S CANTINA & RESTAU RANTE; Papa Kona Coffee & Events, LLC, PAPA KONA COFFEE & EVENTS (RESTAURANT); Patricio's Mexican Taqueria, Inc., PATRICIO'S MEXICAN TAQUERIA #2; Pau Restaurant & Catering, LLC, PAU PIZZA; Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine, LLC, INEAPPLES RESTAURANT; Ponds Hilo, Inc., PONDS HILO; Pueo's Osteria, LLC, PU EO'S OSTERIA; Puna Chocolate Company, PUNA CHOCOLATE COMPANY; JTJ Enterprises, Inc., QUINN'S; Rebel Kitchen LLC, REBEL KITCHEN; Reuben 's Mexican Restaurant I, LLC, REUBEN'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT; Rock N Crab Cajun Restaurant Inc., ROCK N CRAB CAJUN RESTAURANT; RY-5, Inc., ROY'S WAIKOLOA BAR & GRILL; Krislada, LLC, ROYAL THAI CAFE; The MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 54 OF 63 Seaside, Inc., SEASIDE RESTAURANT (THE); Chie Mizukami, SEIJI'S SUSHI; Smash Daddy's LLC, SMASH DADDY'S; Smash Daddy's LLC, SMASH DADDY'S PAHOA; Sodexo America, LLC, SODEXO AMERICA, LLC; Volume Services, Inc., SODEXO LIVE! - HILO; Tiki Guys LLC, SPINNERS KAILUA CANTINA; Kona Daze, LLC, SUNSET KAI LANAI; TTG, LLC, SUNSET TERRACE; Moa Kitchen LLC, SUSHI HANA; Sam's Sushi Inc., SUSHI SAM; Taka Sushi Inc., TAKA SUSHI; Maurice Thomas, THAI THAI BISTRO & BAR; Big Island Booch Inc., THE BOOCH BAR; Hatch Enterprises Incorporated, THE TEMPLE; Tommy Bahama Beverages, LLC, TOMMY BAHAMA'S TROPICAL CAFE; Umekes, LLC, UMEKE'S FISH MARKET BAR & GRILL; Vibe Cafe L.L.C., VIBE CAFE; Waikoloa Shrimp Co WBR LLC, WAIKOLOA SHRIMP CO.; Waikoloa Village Association, WAIKOLOA VILLAGE GOLF COURSE; Waimea Butcher Shop, LLC, WAIMEA BUTCHER SHOP; MamaMaria L.L.C., WAIMEA COFFEE COMPANY; Walua Social LLC, WALUA SOCIAL - eff 1/3/2025; Big Hitter Enterprises, LLC, WILLIE'S HOT CHICKEN. Gonzalez: Mr. Chair, I'll speak on this real briefly, you guys should all be in receipt of a report prepared by us. Our restaurant licensees are required every year to submit the sales information of food sales. Just one thing I'm sorry I have a typo, the date of the report should be May 1 St, 2025, not May 21 St. So as of today, we are just waiting for six more reports of food sales. We have had the investigators make contact with those and remind them that they are supposed to submit their food sales reports to us. If you have any more specific questions, I'll do my best to answer them. Okabe: Any questions for Brandon? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Taniguchi: I move to accept. Okabe: Is there a second? Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to accept the Report of Gross Revenues of Food and Beverage Sales for Class 2 Restaurant Licensees showing food sales are at least 30% of total gross revenues for the period July 1, 2024 through March 31, 2025, pursuant to Rule 3-1-C and 4-7-A-5 of the Rules and Regulations of the Liquor Commission of the County of Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion to accept? There was no discussion by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 55 OF 63 Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 9. Special Licenses Issued for Ratification (11: 18 AM) a. License No. SP-24-144, Kona Cacao Association Inc., dba Kona Cacao Association Inc., for a Special General liquor license, for an event on April 12, 2025, held at 69-275 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa Beach, Hawaii. b. License No. SP-24-145, Hilo Community Players, dba Hilo Community Players, for a Special General liquor license, for events on April 4, 11, 12, 19 & 26, 2025, held at 280 Keawe Street, Hilo, Hawaii. C. License No. SP-24-146, Zonta Club of Hilo Foundation, dba Zonta Club of Hilo Foundation, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for events on April 8 & 22, 2025, held at 91 Mohouli Street, Hilo, Hawaii. d. License No. SP-24-147, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba The Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on April 11, 2025, held at 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. e. License No. SP-24-148, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba The Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on April 12, 2025, held at 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. f. License No. SP-24-149, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba The Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on April 15, 2025, held at 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 56 OF 63 g. License No. SP-24-150, Fraternal Order of Eagles, dba Fraternal Order of Eagles, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for events on April 11-12, 19-20, 25-26; May 2-3, 2025, held at 16-111 `Opukaha`ia Street, Kea`au, Hawaii. h. License No. SP-24-151, Kona Elks Club, dba Kona Elks Club, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on April 17, 2025, held at 75-170 Hualalai Road, Suite E-100, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. i. License No. SP-24-152, Kona Elks Club, dba Kona Elks Club, for a Special General liquor license, for events on May 1-31, 2025, held at 75-170 Hualalai Road, Suite E-100, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. j. License No. SP-24-153, Aloha Performing Arts Company, dba Aloha Theatre, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on April 27, 2025, held at 79-7384 Mamalahoa Highway, Kealakekua, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify? Greenwell: Greenwell, motion to ratify. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to ratify Special Licenses Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 9(a) through 90), License Nos. SP-24-144 through SP-24-153, as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Moved and seconded, is there any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All those opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 57 OF 63 The motion was carried unanimously. 10. Transient Vessel Licenses Issued for Ratification (11: 18 AM) (11: 18 AM) a. License No. TV-24-037, Intercruises as agents for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, dba Quantum of the Seas, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on April 29, 2025. b. License No. TV-24-038, Intercruises as agents for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, dba Celebrity Solstice, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on April 26-27, 2025. C. License No. TV-24-039, Intercruises as agents for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, dba Celebrity Edge, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on May 9-10, 2025. d. License No. TV-24-040, Intercruises as agents for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, dba Celebrity Edge, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on May 8, 2025. e. License No. TV-24-041, Intercruises as agents for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, dba Celebrity Solstice, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on April 24 & 28, 2025. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify? Greenwell: Greenwell, make the motion to ratify. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to ratify Transient Vessel Licenses Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 10(a) through 10(e), License Nos. TV-24-037 through TV-24-041, as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Moved and seconded, discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 58 OF 63 There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 11. Memorandum from Mayor C. Kimo Alameda, Ph. D, dated March 5, 2025, (11: 19 AMRE: County Identification Cards for Volunteer Board, Commission and Committee Members Okabe: What is that? Gonzalez: It's an informational memo from the Office of the Mayor, we were instructed by our Executive boss to share it with all the Commissioners, I trust that all of you guys have seen it in the packet. So, some administrations prior were issuing identification cards to volunteers of Boards and Commissions, that is no longer a practice for the current administration, that's just an FYI (For Your Information). Wilkinson: Too expensive? Gonzalez: Cost is one of those things, is one consideration, our Department was actually asked to print cards for everybody which increased our materials cost. I mean, we were happy to do it because we have a machine, so that's one factor. Greenwell: So Brandon, they're not asking for our cards back? Gonzalez: No, I didn't read that in the memo. Okabe: Okay, so what action are we taking, nothing? Gonzalez: No, just FYI (For Your Information). 12. Report to Commission of the National Alcohol Beverage Control (11:21 AM) Association ("NABCA") 32nd Annual Legal Symposium on Alcohol Beverage Law &Regulation (2025) Gonzalez: So, it's there as part of our audit that our Department went through, it was suggested that we agendize the travel reports, it's really more applicable to when our Commissioners and Board Members go. But I wanted to share the report from the legal symposium with you folks because it does cover a lot of the topics that some of MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 59 OF 63 you folks have attended and have heard about previously, and so that's why I'm sharing that information with you. The two most relevant topics are the THC-infused (tetrahydrocannabinol-infused) beverages that are being marketed as alternatives to alcohol right now. And so those are showing up in regular stores and vape shops. So, there's a concern about accessibility to minors, and that industry is actually pushing to have THC-infused (tetrahydrocannabinol-infused) alcohol beverages as well. So, that's an upcoming trend we're going to see more of, that was the main thing for that. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Okabe: Okay, any questions for him on that? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none. 13. Discussion of Proposed Department of Liquor Control Travel Policy (11:23 AM) Gonzalez: Okay, you have two versions, there's a one page version, and then there's a multiple page version. So, this is also recommendation from the 2024 audit that our Department was subject to, in creating our own Department -level travel policy, so we are just following the recommendation of the audit. The multi -page version is actually based on a template and draft that the County Auditor provided to us. So, at our meeting in front of the Council, the Council said they want to see our travel policy by May 20t". So, they're going to have another Council meeting on it, so the Department has to take something back to them, so we want to give you a heads up on the policy that we drafted. You guys can say which one you guys prefer, but I think we're going to go with the multi -page because it's something the County Auditor helped us prepare, and that was something the Chair and the Council suggested that we check with the auditor to see if they could help us draft something. And so, the auditor was really helpful, the really cool thing is we had Keyra and Corp (Corporation) Counsel review it, and so this draft takes into account multiple legal analysis. It actually just puts together everything we've been following for the last 12 years that's in our County Code, in our Hawaii Revised Statutes, and in our collective bargaining agreements for our employees, it's already existing and written somewhere. And so, we just did a document that reiterates that that's what we're following, yeah so everybody has peace of mind it's all based on something, Finance rules and County rules and laws. Okabe: Any questions for Brandon? Greenwell: The pick of who's going to go, is that still up to the discretion of the Director? Gonzalez: Yes, so what the policy does, you'll see in the back there's a matrix that kind of sets forth and gives some justification and rationale of what factors into the decision for the travel and training. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 60 OF 63 Okabe: Okay, any other questions for Brandon? Wilkinson: So, they're increasing the commitment of the volunteers, and then decreasing the lunch and the travel, I get it, they're making it more difficult for you to fill those spots. Gonzalez: Well, we are concerned that what we do might have a chilling effect on getting volunteers to volunteer, not only for our Department, County wide and that's always a concern. We appreciate all the work that everyone does especially you folks. The only other Commissions I've seen, and I got to see quite a few in my years of County service, right? All the Commissions do really good work, there's a lot of stress involved but it's really people giving up their time to do it. And it helps when they are interested in the subject matter and they actually learn more from it too, and there's a certain enjoyment there, and the giving back. You know, like the Planning Commission, like you folks, you guys have in your hand a lot of peoples hopes and dreams and visions of their business. How they're gonna retire, how they're gonna pay for their kids futures, or take care of their family, or help communities to grow. And, you guys take that seriously, and it does take a lot of prehearing work and post hearing work, right? You guys do your homework, you read the packets, you read applications. So, thank you folks for your service, and we'll still try and do our best to you know, keep people interested and volunteering. Greenwell: Brandon, I know this is travel but is anything more said about training? Gonzalez: It's incorporated into that, so I don't know. Greenwell: Specifically, people are going to go to training classes County -wide, or is it just training classes for the Liquor Department? EPIC's (Electronic Processing Information Center's) training, or Sunshine Law training, are we going to be required to go to a County -wide class? Gonzalez: Okay, so now your question makes more sense, thank you. So, in regards to Sunshine Law and Office of Information Practices, and any rules that apply to Boards and Commissions, the attorney that's assigned to the Commission, right now it's Keyra, she will be giving the training. If there's more than one or two Commissioners that come on board that have not received the training, they will work with them to try and do it one time. But I know what we want to do is get you guys the training on that ASAP (as soon as possible). If not, before you start sitting in on your first meeting or immediately thereafter. I know Commissioner Nakashima was previously on the Fire Commission and probably received OIP (Office of Information Practices) training. You yourself was on the Water Board, you probably received OI P (Office of Information Practices) training, but Commissioner Nakashima was given training by the Office of the Corporation Counsel on Sunshine Law and stuff. So, that will be handled by their office on an individual basis, and they'll work it out with you folks to be able to do that, does that sufficiently answer your question? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 61 OF 63 Greenwell: Yeah, so we're not going to have like every second Thursday of the month, a County -wide class for all volunteers that are going to Commissions throughout the County? Gonzalez: That's a great idea, I don't see that because most of you guys have gotten the training. And then what will happen too is our Corporation Counsel will be giving written and verbal reminders to all of us whenever we're together or before we travel as reminders because that was another recommendation from the audit. Taniguchi: Weren't we given something when we first started, the Sunshine Law? The handout, right? Gonzalez: Yes. Taniguchi: I'm sure everybody memorized it already. Gonzalez: Yes, so I think all the current Commissioners now, you have received that. Okabe: Okay, any other questions for Brandon regarding the travel policy? Gonzalez: Mr. Chair, so you guys are okay with us submitting the draft for the Council review? Okabe: Yes. Gonzalez: Okay, thank you for that. IX. Announcements (11:31 AM) Meetings of the Liquor Commission June 5, 2025, 10:00 A.M., Kona Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Suite 107, Kailua- Kona, Hawaii. Okabe: Commissioner Greenwell will be the Chair that day, I won't be able to attend that meeting, so good luck to you, sir. July 3, 2025, 10:00 A.M., Hilo Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Unit 230, Hilo, Hawaii. Gonzalez: I have couple more announcements. Sorry, two more announcements, just as a heads up, the County Council will be submitting a bill for consideration to make Naloxone, also known as Narcan, mandatory in all Hawaii County bars and restaurants. So, when that is scheduled for public hearing with the County Council and discussion, we can send you guys a reminder. Our Department in the past has informed the MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 11 2025 - HILO PAGE 62 OF 63 Council that making it mandatory wasn't necessary because all of our licensees were voluntarily doing it. But we did assist the Council to draft this bill to make sure it' consistent with all the liquor laws and stuff, but we have not taken a poon supportin it or opposing we're just offering our technical assistance at this poI And then my last announcement is, some of you may not know but Commissioner Wilkinson will be stepping down as a Commissioner, this is her last meeting. But, I'd like to thank you very much for your service, I'm sorry we did not receive the Certificat of Appreciation. I want to say thank you very much for all of your help and assistance and always being prepared, and best of luck to you, and we hope to see you again. I Wilkinson: Thank you, it's been an honor. Greenwell: I'm glad you're leaving happily, I'm glad it's not for other reasons, but than you. I Wilkinson: Yes, thank you again, it I s been a pleasure and a lot of fun. Okabe: Good luck, thank you very much for your service and you never know, you might come back. RESSUASTNTUTM =- I Meeting adjourned at 11:35 A.M. �G�ro" Gerald Taka Me Director The May 1, 2025 meeting minutes were approved as circulated, via email on May 29., 2025.q by the Liquor Commission of the County of Hawaii on June 5, 2025. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 1, 202S - HILO PAGE 63 OF 63