2025-06-20 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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Regular Session Minutes June 20,2025 Page 5 NEW BUSINESS Discussion regarding Chief Moszkowicz's Resignation and Withdrawal: The Commission discussed the June 2, 2025, press release from Mayor Blangiardi recommending Chief Moszkowicz serve as interim HPD Chief, and Chief Moszkowicz's subsequent resignation and withdrawalof resignation. Chair Robinson reported that the Honolulu Police Commission appointed Deputy Chief Vanic as interim chief, followingthe succession plan. DCC Salas-Ferguson noted that he had spoken with some commissioners regarding the scope of their authority. He added that if anyone had legal questions or was seeking legal advice, now would be an appropriate time to move into executive session. EXECUTIVE SESSION(CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC) Commissioner Tavaresmotioned to meet inexecutive session to consult with the board’s attorney on questions and issues pertaining to the commission’s powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities pursuant to HRS 92-5 (a)(4) and the Hawaii County Charter Section 13-20 (b).Seconded by Vice Chair Bertsch, who explained that they intended to meet briefly in executive session, then return to open session to allow for public testimony, emphasizing the importance of transparency and the need for the community to understand the commission’s decision-making process. They noted that a clear understanding of the legal parameters was necessary, as the discussion involved employment matters related to the chief.The motionpassedunanimously. Executive session convened at 9:58 a.m. Motion to reconvene open session made by Vice Chair Bertsch, seconded by Commissioner Botelhowith no discussion, and it carried unanimously. The regular session reconvened at 10:39 a.m. Chair Robinson announced that during executive session, the commission consulted with Corporation Counsel regarding its rules, authority, and legal options in light of Chief Moszkowicz’s resignation and subsequent attempt to rescind it. He then opened the floor for discussion. Vice ChairBertsch acknowledged the complexity of the situation, noting that the commission’s rules, the chief’s correspondence, and media attention all contribute to the challenges. He emphasized the potential impact on the department’s morale and the importance ofthe chief’s commitment to the role. Bertsch pointed out that the commission is navigating new territory and now faces a critical question: whether to accept or reject the chief’s attempt to withdraw his resignation. He referenced two documents,one received on the morning of June 4 stating the chief’s intent to resign effective July 15, and another received later that same day requesting to rescind that resignation. As the commission has hiring and firing authority over the chief, Bertsch stated that this decision must be carefully considered in accordance with their established guidelines.