2009-09-18 Police Commission Minutes

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Hawaii County Police Commission Regular Session Minutes September 18, 2009 Page 4 They have been receiving a lot of complaints regarding the ordinance of lowest priority for marijuana enforcement. They plan to meet with the Mayor, Prosecutor, and Corporation Counsel next week to discuss this. It depends on who you ask whether their marijuana missions are violating the intent of the ordinance. Chair Whittemore stated that he wants more clarity where the county stands for when people come before them. Chief Kubojiri further reported that police personnel donate a lot to charitable events. They do Cop on Top. They have been designated as a pace setter for Hawaii Island United Way. As of last month, the police department has committed approximately $22,000 to HIUW. They exceeded last year's pledges. They always reach deep and always give. Next month, they will participate in the Awareness of Domestic Violence event and will walk half a mile in women's shoes. They did a backpack drive, and contributions from the community were outstanding. They asked for used backpacks, and people sent boxes of brand new backpacks. Some even came from the mainland. Commissioner Sumja asked to see their exit interviews which he feels is an important tool for retention. Deputy Corporation Counsel Masuda stated that they would have to look at the collective bargaining agreement first. Chief Kubojiri stated that they ask standard questions. The majors are required to ask the questions. Most employees will fill out the form. For the vast majority of people who leave, if it's not personal, it's for another job, or for their spouse. Chief Kubojiri stated that they hope to apply for accreditation in February. Chief Kubojiri stated that they have not been given specific directives about conferences. At the upcoming HSLEOA conference, they will discuss whether these conferences are absolutely necessary. Chair Whittemore stated that he would like to see the police department spotlight police personnel doing community work. Chief Kubojiri stated that the officers like to hear kudos from the commission when they come to the Police Commission meetings. Commissioner Behenna asked if they could modify the commendation report to include things that the Chief feels should be highlighted. Chief Kubojiri stated that a lot of times they don't know about the contributions that employees do until the public points it out. Recess was called at 10:35 a.m. The meeting reconvened at 10:50 a.m. INVESTIGATION OF COMPLAINTS Statements on Complaints — None. EXECUTIVE SESSION Commissioner Ignacio moved to meet in executive session to consider discipline and charges against officers or employees of the Hawaii County Police Department where consideration of matters affecting privacy would be involved, to evaluate an employee, and to consult with Corporation Counsel on questions and issues that pertain to the