2002-03 Prohibited Political Activities

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J+ZV Oi M O � Harry Kim �'•'M `�W, Lincoln S.T.Ashida Mayor •' '• Corporation Counsel =" Gerald Takase Assistant Corporation Counsel (fauldfir of Palualil, OFFICE OF THE CORPORATION COUNSEL 101 Aupuni Street, Suite 325 •Hilo,Hawaii 96720-4262•(808)961-8251 •FAX(808)961-8622 June 7, 2002 MEMORANDUM Corporation Counsel Opinion No. 2002-03 TO: OFFICE OF THE MAYOR FROM: LINCOLN S. T. ASHIDA Corporation Counsel RE: Prohibited Political Activities In light of recent media publicity concerning the prosecution of former Honolulu City and County Councilwoman Rene Mansho, we recommend issuance of the following opinion and advisory concerning prohibited political activities. Our office encourages any County employee to contact our office for clarification of any matter contained in this memorandum, of if there are any questions regarding questioned activities. Chapter 11, Hawai f Revised Statutes Chapter 11 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes (hereinafter "HRS") governs elections in the State of Hawaii. Particular attention should be paid to Sections 11-191, et. am., which govern campaign contributions, fundraising, and reporting requirements. Department of Civil Service Information Sheets The Department of Civil Service often circulates an information sheet for posting to all departments, covering political activities. This is an excellent resource which provides guidance to all County employees on permissible and prohibited activities. A copy of their most recent information sheet is attached for your reference. Hawai I County Code of Ethics Article 15, Sections 2-79, et. sea., of our Hawaii County Code contains our code of ethics. All County officers and employees, whether elected, appointed, or civil service, should familiarize themselves with this provision of the Code. In addition to disciplinary penalties provided by the Code, there is the possibility of criminal prosecution, as illustrated in Mansho's case.