2026-02-20 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawaii Police Commission Regular Session Minutes February 20, 2026 Page 4 meetings, and command staff often attend retirement gatherings to recognize their service. Commissioner Lacerte asked if the public attends commanders' meetings. Chief Mahuna clarified that they are not public meetings, as they involve operational and confidential matters. Commissioner Urban-Smith raised concerns about traffic safety related to recent rallies in Kona. Chief Mahuna stated that officers will assess the situation and continue working with organizers, who have been receptive to guidance to improve safety. Chair Yamada asked the Chief to identify his top priorities. Chief Mahuna highlighted improving officer equipment, strengthening recruitment and retention efforts, and preparing the department for the future through technology. He also emphasized the importance of morale, noting ongoing engagement with officers and efforts to explore schedule, equipment, and policy improvements. Chair Yamada also raised concerns about officers' hesitation to take enforcement action while off duty for fear of discipline; the Chief responded that it's important for leadership to consider the totality of circumstances and recognize officers' good-faith efforts to protect the public. Commissioner Lacerte expressed strong support for the Chief's interest in Al emphasizing that Al should be used to enhance productivity, not replace staff, and suggested that it could help identify major time-consuming, mundane tasks that technology could streamline. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) Report: Discussion regarding the Permitted Interaction Group formed on August 30, 2024, to review and recommend amendments to the Police Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure. Chair Yamada noted that the PIG was formed prior to his tenure and asked whether commissioners had reviewed the report included in their packets. DCC Salas-Ferguson explained that the PIG was established to review Commission rules and recommend amendments. As the members are no longer on the Commission, their recommendations were submitted in writing. The Commission may accept the report, and any discussion on recommendations would need to occur at a future meeting. The Commission agreed to review the report individually.