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Regular Session Minutes <br />October 24, 2025 <br />Page 5 <br />Finance (Major Evangelista):As of September 30, 2025, the actual expenditure <br />was 29.03% (target 28.97%). Salaries and wages (S&W)were29.33% (target <br />29.17%). OvertimeS&W was at 108.37%. <br />Other Activities (Interim Chief Mahuna):On October 9, HPD held its first annual <br />“MeritScouts Police Tour Day” in Kona. <br />Commendations and Awards:Chief Mahuna reported on several recent awards <br />and 12 commendations involving 16 personnel. <br />UNFINISHED BUSINESS: POLICE CHIEF SELECTION PROCESS <br />The commission discussed and took action on the selection process for the new Police <br />Chief. <br />Recruitment Update:Michelle Simmons (Human Resources) reported that <br />recruitment is open until October 31, and 17 applications havebeen received to <br />date (not yet screened for minimum qualifications). <br />Anonymity:Vice Chair Bertsch made a motion to follow the previous selection <br />process, keeping applicants anonymous (identified by number) until the commission <br />selects the top candidates for interviews. Commissioner Lacerte seconded. <br />o Commissioner Tavares spoke in full support, stating that it encourages a <br />stronger applicant pool, as some may fear retribution if not selected. He <br />stated such behavior is unacceptable, and the commission would take action <br />if it occurred. <br />o The motion carried unanimously. <br />o Chair Robinson noted that any vile, anonymous letters received regarding <br />candidates would beshredded. <br />Ranking:The commission discussed the 1-5 rating scale used in 2022. <br />o Vice Chair Bertsch moved that each commissioner rank the interrogatory <br />questions on a scale of 1-5 (5 being highest), with HR to assist in compiling <br />the scores. Commissioner Lacerte seconded, with no discussion. The motion <br />carriedunanimously. <br />o Vice Chair Bertsch noted these scores are tools and not binding, and the <br />commission should also review the full application packets. <br />o DCC Salas-Ferguson clarified that applications (with names redacted) could <br />be provided to the commission along with the interrogatories. <br />Commission Secretary:Chair Robinson stated the commission secretary's <br />workload for both the Police and Fire Commissions is too strenuous, especially <br />during the chief selection process.Chair Robinson stated that he would like to send <br /> <br />