2026-02-20 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawaii Police Commission Regular Session Minutes February 20, 2026 Page 3 Currently, there are 27 positions filled and 4 vacant for police communication officers. All five supervising police communication officer positions are fully staffed. Overall, the department has filled 404 of 530 sworn positions (80%) and 127 of 161 civilian positions (79%). Assistant Chief Bird reported on recruitment activities and continuous recruitment efforts. Chair Yamada inquired about firearms-related vacancies. He asked if the clerk positions in the report were current, as he understood one had recently resigned. Assistant Chief Bird confirmed that recruitment is ongoing. • Finance: Assistant Chief Bird reported challenges with the new county financial system, which currently limits access to standard reports. Finance is working to replicate these reports, but it will take time. Of the approximately $90 million budget, about 65% has been spent or obligated, with a remaining balance of roughly $34 million. Pending reimbursements and adjustments, including $3 million for HGEA temporary hazard pay and a $5.5 million correction from a system transition error, are expected next month, bringing the projected balance to approximately $43 million, consistent with prior fiscal year trends. • Other Department Activities and Updates: Chief Mahuna reported on ongoing department activities, including community policing and outreach efforts such as talk story meetings, youth programs, kupuna scam awareness sessions, recruit class graduation, and community cleanups. He also noted the donation of 127 AED devices from Hilo Benioff Medical Center, with a goal of equipping all officers. • Promotions, Commendations & Awards: Chief Mahuna provided an update on departmental promotions and several recent awards, including dispatchers and officers of the year, month, and quarter, the Haweo Award recipient, crime prevention recognition, and five commendations involving seven personnel since the last Commission meeting. Commissioner Tavares inquired about how success is measured for community meetings, including desired outcomes and follow-up efforts. Chief Mahuna explained that he resumed community meetings following commanders' meetings, with notes and follow-ups tracked to assess how effectively community concerns are addressed. Commissioner Tavares also asked about recognition for retirees. Chief Mahuna stated that retirees receive certificates and acknowledgments at commanders'