August 26, 2025, Regular Meeting Minutes

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YouthCommission August 26, 2025 meeting minutes Council Member Kagiwada provided an overview oftwo bills: Bill 59, which aimed to prohibit certain roadside activities, particularly targeting homeless individuals soliciting donations. Council Member Kagiwada voted against this bill and expressed gratitude for the Mayor's veto, noting potential revisions in September. The second bill, Bill 51, prohibits feeding feral animals on county property. Council Member Kagiwada also opposed this bill, citing concerns about its enforceability given existing laws against abandoning animals. Additionally, Council Member Kagiwada mentioned a weekly newsletter providing information on council meetings and a survey that the county wants young residents to complete, urging feedback on living conditions in the area. c. Adult Advisor Report None d. Continued Discussion: Youth Commission Priorities Chair Konanui-Tucker called for public testimony. There being no public testimony, the meeting continued as follows. Discussion: Chair Konanui-Tucker revisited the discussion on Youth Commission priorities, including native species, youth wellness, and youth preparedness and civic engagement. Commissioners discussed the feasibility of focusing on these priorities within the next four months. Commissioner Killion suggested exploring internships and apprenticeships which led the discussion into workforce development and creating a resource list of employers who would be interested in a job fair. Commissioners Tominaga and Vanebo volunteered to write a script for commissioners to approach potential employers for a resource list. Commissioners Ha, Killion and Adult Advisor Barber will take the lead on workforce development. Action: Chair Konanui-Tucker called for a motion to finalize the Youth Commission priorities. Commissioner Killion moved to finalize Native Species, Youth Preparedness and Youth Wellness and Civic Engagement as the Youth priorities, which was seconded by Commissioner Ha. The motion was carried by a vote of 12:0. NEW BUSINESS a. Approval of Adult Advisor Applicant Vanessa Carlson Discussion: Vanessa Carlson introduced herself to the Commission, as a third- generation graduate of Waikea High School, was born and raised in Hilo. She holds a bachelor's degree from UH-Hilo degree in nonprofit management and leadership. Since 2001, Vanessa has been involved in the community, primarily working with youth through various nonprofits. Currently, she serves adults of all ages at UH-Hilo. Married for 36 years, she has two adult children with spouses and grandchildren. Vanessa acknowledges that while life is not perfect, it is good. She has shown interest in the Youth Commission but initially felt it wasn't the right time in her life to pursue 3