2026-05-15 Police Commission Regular Minutes (draft)

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Hawaii Police Commission Regular Session Minutes May 15, 2026 Page 5 Regarding the application process, Deputy Chief Bird related that the timeline when applicant names come to HPD and they are able to offer employment has been trimmed down to about 3 '/2 months. They're trying to trim that down even further by combining the applications before background checks are conducted. Commissioner Salavea stated that shortening the application process is great as it really is an employee's market out there, and the quicker we can get to people the more success we will have. Commissioner Urban-Smith inquired about the protocol in place for gatherings that happen by the Mormon Church, and if groups need to call the police station to notify them that there is something happening and they will be parking in the no parking zone. Chief Mahuna responded that people do give them a heads up, but there should not be parking there as officers will address parking violations. Commissioner Urban-Smith respectfully requests that an officer be present when there is a gathering. She has noticed that people encroach over the white line even though there are cones set up. Those people are passionate for what they're gathered for, but nonetheless safety should be the first priority. Commissioner Fischer echoed what Commissioner Urban-Smith said and stated that growing up in that area, he noticed over the last few years that it is getting worse and people are much more passionate, even aggressive, and do cross a little on the road. Commissioner Urban-Smith asked if there are any restrictions or protocol when it comes to riding e-bikes. Chief Mahuna stated that new rules have passed, and it is dependent on the speed of the bike and battery capacity. Chief will get back to Commissioner Urban- Smith on the age limit for riding e-bikes. Acting Chair Botelho stated that the best crime prevention is what Chief, Deputy, and their officers are doing now and the community is seeing how they care about them. She commended both of them and stated that being active and having presence are immeasurable and good. She related that during their sign waving event at the intersection of Komohana and Mohouli, they received a warm reception from community members, showing that officers are doing what needs to be done to keep our community safe. Commissioner Enriquez inquired about requests for ride-alongs with officers so Commissioners can better understand what officers deal with. Per Chief Mahuna, ride- alongs can be arranged for Commissioners. Commissioner Urban-Smith inquired where someone can get an autism ID. Chief Mahuna related that the Autism Support and Disability Center has different places where an ID can be obtained. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) Report: Acting Chair Botelho reported that a lot of the members who initiated this group are no longer on the Commission and opened it up