Board Packet for FC Meeting 1-15-26

Home

Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes November 20, 2025 Page 9 The Commission decided it would be simpler for one person, Chair Kosaki gather the necessary information and report back at the next meeting. He will seek answers from Finance. Commissioner Cushnie moved that Chair Kosaki obtain the information from Finance and report back at the next meeting. Commissioner Hanano seconded the motion. With no further discussion, the motion carried with six in favor and one opposed (Commissioner Magsalin). Status of the Fire Commission Secretary: Chair Kosaki reported that the Fire Commission had previously sent a letter to the Mayor regarding the secretary position, but had not received a response. On October 30, he received correspondence from the Police Commission noting that the secretary is the sole staff member for both commissions with no backup and recommending that administrative support to the Fire Commission be discontinued. Chair Kosaki discussed the matter with the Managing Director and Mayor, who stated that personnel assignments remain under the administration's authority. The secretary will continue serving both commissions, as any change would require a position description revision and administrative approval. DCC Takamura noted that this issue is also related to New Business, Correspondence No. 25-03. Chair Kosaki acknowledged the high workload on the secretary, particularly given the Police Commission's search for a new chief, and expressed hope that additional support can be provided soon. Commissioner Magsalin inquired about adding a Fire Commission Secretary to the department's budget. Chair Kosaki stated that no budget currently exists for this position. Chief Todd added that any changes to the position would be handled internally by the Mayor's office, and at present, the secretary's duties remain status quo. EXECUTIVE SESSION (CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC) Commissioner Perrin moved to go into executive session to consider the charges against officers or employees of the Fire Department, where matters affecting privacy will be involved, and to consult with the commission's attorney on questions and issues pertaining to the commission's powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities, pursuant to HRS §§ 92-4, 92-5(a)(2), (a)(4), and CCH § 13-20(b) as they pertain to agenda items a(1) and a(2) as executive session items. Seconded by Commissioner Cushnie, with no discussion, the motion carried unanimously, executive session convened at 12.35 p.m. Motion to reconvene open session made by Commissioner Cushnie, seconded by Commissioner Perrin, with no discussion, and it carried unanimously. The regular session reconvened at 1.19 p.m.