2026-01-30 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawaii Police Commission Regular Session Minutes January 30, 2026 Page 7 Chair Yamada reminded Commissioners that their deliberations and decision must be based solely on job-related qualifications and the candidate's ability to perform the essential functions of the position, including desired leadership qualities and information from written materials, interviews, and public testimony, and must not be based on any prohibited discriminatory factors (e.g., race, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, color, ancestry, disability, or marital status). He then opened a discussion on the selection of the Police Chief. Vice Chair Botelho described the selection process as lengthy and demanding, noting that Commissioners reviewed applications, resumes, supplemental questions, in-person interviews, and numerous letters of recommendation. She emphasized that she took the process very seriously, dedicating significant personal time to review all materials, and expressed disappointment that two candidates had withdrawn. She stated that all interviewees were excellent, but felt that the community, administrative leaders, and the union had spoken clearly in their testimony. She said the decision weighed heavily on her, particularly as someone born and raised on the island, and recommended Interim Police Chief Reed Mahuna for the position. Commissioner Enriquez noted that he, too, has a full-time job and devoted many hours to reviewing material and listening to public testimony. He emphasized his personal commitment to doing what is best for the island and its people, given his family's long- standing ties to the community. He stated that he also recommends Chief Mahuna and is confident in that decision. Commissioner Buckman stated that he has had a connection to the island since 1979 and has made it his home since his retirement 15 years ago. He said he carefully considered all written and oral information, focusing on what is best for the department, the community, and the island, and expressed his support for Reed Mahuna as Chief. Commissioner Tavares thanked all who attended, including candidates and supporters who traveled to be present. He referred to the Commission's desired leadership qualities in the recruitment announcement and said the weight of the decision kept him up at night and occupied his thoughts. He expressed appreciation for the written and oral testimony, particularly from Police Department members, and stated that he supports and will vote for Interim Chief Mahuna. Commissioner Urban-Smith thanked all applicants, especially those who traveled, and noted that the decision weighed heavily on her as a mother and grandmother, knowing its impact on future generations. She stated that, considering the desired leadership qualities and the candidates' written materials, oral testimony, and community actions,