2006-08-11 Police Commission Minutes

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Hawaii County Police Commission Regular Session Minutes August 11, 2006 Page 3 exposed to it (on themselves). They could show the device to the commission at the next Hilo meeting. Commissioner Frazier inquired into the inventory of radar units. Deputy Chief Kubojiri stated that units have been going down. Assistant Chief Day stated that they are still waiting on grants for more units. Commissioner Kaoiwi inquired into the status of the firing range. Chief Mahuna stated that they have a problem with gun clubs running a firing range -- where the controls would lie and with the length of time to conduct the EIS. Hopefully, they can fix the roof on the eastside and have an indoor range on the west side. His immediate solution is to get a self contained in -door shooting range at the new South Kona Police Station. Vice Chair Morimoto stated that he has been at meetings with Councilwoman Isbell regarding possible areas for a new station. Chief Mahuna stated that the area they have been looking at is in a flood area and is in close proximity to Konawaena High School. He would like the station to be further south, but there is no land in the area. He believes the current South Kona police station is in the ideal location for the new police station. It has only about three acres, but he would like to have a multiple level station. Finance Director Bill Takaba is handling the acquisition of property. Commissioner Frazier stated that as an oversight body for the Police Department, it would be appropriate for the commission to send a letter to the Mayor and the Council about the need for a firing range. Perhaps the Chief's office could assist them in drafting the letter. • Commendations: Chief Mahuna reported receiving eight commendations involving twenty -eight employees since the last meeting. • Commander's meeting minutes of July 19, 2006: No discussion. Other departmental activities: Chief Mahuna reported that their pilot mobile data project seems to be going well, though not yet implemented. They are still looking into their cadet program. Their target would be the 16 -17 year olds, juniors and seniors, just out of high school. Although, they cannot discriminate by age. The cadets would get paid and possibly receive school credits. This would help with kids on the fringes to keep out of trouble, away from drugs, etc. It would take about 3 -4 years before they could become police officers. They would probably start in Hilo and then expand to other areas. They have to look at manpower and instructors. Commissioner Frazier stated that he was pleased to see the modifications being done at the South Kohala Station. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Correspondence 06 -28, SHOPO's request for an educational seminar for both the Police Commission and union board members.