2025-12-15 Liquor Commission Minutes Hilo (Special Meeting)

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But even though I disagreed, I followed the policy and direction by my supervisor completely. I conducted the inspection, seized the alcohol, documented everything thoroughly, and then ensured the licensee understood the requirements, what was happening and what they can do to get the alcohol back. I did voice my concern over this operation to my direct supervisor. Throughout the investigation, this experience reinforced that as an investigator, a public servant, as someone in the law enforcement community, it's important to uphold the law consistently while offering insight to improve it. And I would expect that our current Director has always been open to listening to any concerns or any complaints that we might have about a procedure, and explain anything that we might not understand. That's something that I hope to bring if chosen as the next new Director. I want to be clear though that violating any policy or law whether you're the Director or a staff member is not acceptable at any time and they should be held accountable. Okabe: No. 13, the Department strives to maintain positive work relationships with licensees and the business community. What will you do to perpetuate and enhance these relationships in the future? Kouchi: Well, maintaining a positive relationship with the licensees and the business community has always been a priority of mine, and it is something that I do even in my current position, and it's something that I instill on our investigators that I'm lucky enough to train. And that is something I would continue to emphasize Department -wide as a Director, and I would accomplish this through clear communication, education, and collaboration with our staff and our licensees. And then, I would ensure that all licensees receive timely clear information about any rules, policies, policy changes, and compliance expectations. I believe in proactive law enforcement and proactive communication during inspections, classes, conferences, and meetings. And any type of communication builds trust and prevents any misunderstandings between our staff, our enforcement strategies and policies, our licensees, and the community. I would expand their educational programs providing practical guidance, compliance technology use and best practices to help our businesses and licensees succeed while staying within the law. will also maintain open channels for licensees to share concerns or suggestions directly with myself and my staff, and this will help foster a culture of partnership rather than just enforcement. And then finally, consistent and fair application of rules and laws strengthens respect and trust by the staff, licensees and community. My approach would be proactive, transparent, and educational, balancing our regulatory responsibilities with strong relationships to support compliance, public safety, and to maintain a healthy and lucrative liquor industry. The Director is the Commission's representative, this is not an easy task, I'm not applying to be the next Director because it is easy, I'm applying because I've worked towards this goal for over a decade. I admit there are areas that I will need guidance, but I am ready both personally and professionally for this role and to carry out the Commission's agenda. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING SPECIAL MEETING - MONDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2025 - HILO PAGE 13 OF 35