2010-07-23 Police Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Police Commission Regular Session Minutes July 23, 2010 Page 3 • Other Departmental Activities: Commissioner Ignacio asked about safe guards to police overtime. Deputy Chief Ferreira stated that supervisors are responsible, and because of budget constraints, they scrutinize all overtime. Chief Kubojiri stated that the first line sergeants have to approve the overtime. If there is something that can be postponed, it is carried over to the next day. Chief Kubojiri reported that Samuel Kawamoto, Jr., will become the commander of the Kona district. He has been a police officer for 28 years. Kawamoto was born, raised, and lives in Kona. Lt. Robert Wagner has been promoted to captain in South Hilo. Wagner lives in Hilo. Chief Kubojiri explained the promotion process. About ten years ago, they did away with the written portion for commanders. Now, for captain and up, there is an oral exam, questions specific to the position, disciplinary action, etc. Seniority does play a part but is not a deciding factor. Chair Whittemore stated that Sam Kawamoto is a real quality guy, and it is good to have him back in Kona. He has made a lot of sacrifices for the good of the department. Commissioner Victorine stated that all the accolades are true, and Kawamoto is a gentleman. Chair Whittemore stated that the Chief's status report on the department's goals for 2010 will be on next month's agenda. UNFINISHED BUSINESS • Police Commission's revised 2010 meeting schedule. No discussion. Report on County Council's ad hoc committee to establish a grievance procedure regarding the lowest law enforcement priority of cannabis ordinance. Commissioner Sumja reported that he and Commissioner Ignacio represented the Police Commission. They told the committee that special meetings just for marijuana complaints were not needed. He reminded Councilman Yagong that the Police Commission sent a letter to the County Council asking for clarification on this issue, and the council just filed the letter. Councilman Greenwell thought the meeting was a waste of time, and that they should take it to court. Commissioner Ignacio reported that she told the committee that the Police Commission should not create another process for hearing complaints, the commission is not a rubber stamp commission, they take every case seriously, and that marijuana cases are not treated any differently from other complaints. Recess called at 10:18. The meeting reconvened at10:30 a.m. INVESTIGATION AND DELIBERATION OF COMPLAINTS EXECUTIVE SESSION Commissioner Sumja moved to meet in executive session to consider discipline and charges against officers or employees of the Hawai'i County Police Department where consideration of matters affecting privacy would be involved and to consult with Corporation Counsel on questions and issues pertaining to the commission's powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities pursuant to HRS 92 -5 (2) (4) and Hawai'i County Charter Section 13 -20 (b).