2-20-2026 Board Packet for PC Meeting

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February 19, 2026 To: Hawai'i County Police Commission Friday, Feb. 20, 2027 - Hilo Council Chambers Agenda: Item VI and IX - Selection of Police Chief May begin by thanking the Police Commission for the thoughtful Police Chief recruitment process that was put in place and again thank the individuals who put themselves forward as candidates. It was an impressive list and I do hope that those who do decide to make Hawai'i Island their home will get involved — we need and welcome their expertise and dedication to public safety. It goes without saying that I support the appointment of Reed Mahuna as Chief. I do think this entire situation, recruitment process and the conversations generated across the island have been beneficial to helping us all think deeply about public safety, law enforcement and what role each of us plays in this — more so in these very challenging times. It's really easy to settle into a mindset of let "them" take care of it, but even yesterday during the Interim Chief's first community talk story in Waimea, it was abundantly clear that there is no "they" — but rather, "we" — all of us working together that will make all of us safer. What I really want to briefly say today is a hope that this commission and the department commits going forward to an even closer partnership with the community. Our Community Policing program is very important. The monthly newsletters and reports such as on DUls and Fentanyl and other drug enforcement actions are important. CPO officers and others attending community meetings is important — and I mean this for police commissioners as well as department personnel. This level of community outreach is daunting for everyone - volunteer commissioners, HPD officers and staff, all of whom already have full plates. But serious community engagement is essential even though the conversations are at times going to be difficult and frustrating. But developing and nurturing healthy, respectful partnerships is essential. One small example of the work ahead, I think, is expanding on the new "courtesy livestreaming" of commission meetings. I'm grateful for this addition to meetings, but strongly urge that in the next round of county budgeting, funding be sought to transition to the same format used for County Council and Planning Commission meetings — such that community members can participate — not just listen in - from County satellite offices or personal devices and also be able to listen to archived recordings of meetings. This step toward greater transparency puts added pressure on everyone, but it's how democracy works best when there's accountability. also hope that the department under the new Chief will continue the new Community Talk Stories in communities around the island and try different times of day and settings to hear from as many as possible. The first such talk story this past Wednesday was small but