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Regular Session Minutes <br />January 29, 2026 <br />Page 13 <br />She also discussed her extensive law enforcement background, leadership experience, <br />and commitment to building strong teams and improving departmental culture. <br />Reed Mahuna <br />Vice Chair Botelho asked the 10 prepared interview questions, allowing three minutes <br />per response. <br />Reed Mahuna emphasized proactive transparency, clear communication, and <br />accountability when working with the Police Commission and county leadership. He <br />discussed balancing transparency with prosecutorial considerations during critical <br />incidents, noting that he would favor releasing information when possible while <br />protecting the integrity of criminal investigations. Mahuna emphasized the importance of <br />stopping or reevaluating policies that prove harmful while avoiding reactionary decision- <br />making. He highlighted the role of local values such as aloha, kuleana, pono, and lokahi <br />in guiding law enforcement practices while maintaining constitutional policing. Mahuna <br />also stressed the importance of officer wellness and mental health, noting the <br />challenges officers face throughout their careers. He concluded by emphasizing his <br />during a period of transition. <br />Recess was called at 3:03 p.m., and the meeting reconvened at 3:30 p.m.Chair <br />Yamada asked if there was any public testimony.There were none. <br />SELECTION OF POLICE CHIEF <br />Chair Yamada asked commissioners, as overnight homework, to identify their top three <br />candidates. He noted that any remaining issues related to the selection would be <br />finalized at the meeting the following day and invited any thoughts or concerns <br />regarding the process so far. <br />Commissioner Tavares stated for the record that, although Interim Chief Mahuna had <br />mentioned having family members with the last name Tavares, they have no familial <br />relationship. <br />Chair Yamada then requested a motion to continue agenda items IV, V, and VI to the <br />next day’s meeting. Vice Chair Botelho so moved, seconded by Commissioner Lacerte. <br />With no discussion, the motion carried unanimously. <br />ANNOUNCEMENTS <br />Chair Yamada announced that the Commission would reconvene the followingday at <br />9:00 a.m. in the Kona Council Chambers. <br /> <br />