2025-07-10 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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Special Meeting Minutes July 10, 2025 Page 5 NEW BUSINESS Police Chief Benjamin Moszkowicz's Request to Withdraw His Resignation:Chief Moszkowicz provided a statement detailing the timeline of his decision to seek an interim Police Department, and his immediate request to withdraw that resignation. He expressed deep regret for his actions, apologized for the disruption and confusion caused, and reaffirmed his commitment to the Big Island community and the department. He highlighted the department's accomplishments during his tenure and pledged to work to earn back the trust of the commission, the department, and the public.He concluded by reaffirming his long- employment elsewhere and is dedicated to continuing his service as chief, asking for the commission’s trust and the opportunity to continue leading the department. Commissioners questioned the chiefon several points, such asthebreach of trust with the department and the community.The impact of his actions on departmental morale,the perception that his was a "stepping stone," and h EXECUTIVE SESSION(CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC) Vice Chair Bertsch motioned to meet inexecutive session Statutes, Section 92-5(a)(2) and/or (4), to consider the hire, evaluation, dismissal, or discipline of an officer or employee or of charges brought against the officer or employee, where consideration of matters affecting privacy will be involved and/or to consult with the commission’s attorney on questions and issues pertaining to the commission’s powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities. Seconded by Commissioner Lacerte, with no discussion, itcarried unanimously. Executive session convened at 12:18 p.m. Motion to reconvene open session made by Vice Chair Bertsch, seconded by Commissioner Tavares,with no discussion, and it carried unanimously. The regular session reconvened at 12:50 p.m. Recess was called at 12:50 p.m., and the meeting reconvened at 12:57 p.m. Chair Robinson announced that in executive session, the commission consulted with counsel for clarification on specific questions. He then opened the floor for discussion or a motion regarding Chief Moszkowicz’s request to withdraw his resignation. Commissioner Botelho stated that each commissioner’s responsibility is to represent the residents of their district and understand their concerns. She emphasized the importance of listening to all constituents,officers, those experiencing homelessness, working families, and everyone in between,and affirmed that she approaches her role without a personal agenda.