2014-03-06 Cost of Government Commission Minutes

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Ms. Kierkiewicz replied she liked the push to integrate technology across the County. She did not like the limitation on attendance to off island conferences and meetings. She thinks face-to-face meetings are more effective and help develop relationships. Mr. Mitchell stated he likes the grant specialist as he’s seen how important grant writing is and would like to follow up on that. He also thinks the comprehensive strategic plan is very important as it saves time and money. Mr. Perry stated he would like to focus on the bigger issues that affect all of the departments like technology and energy. Mr. Matsuda stated he’s interested in technology and energy. He would like to see what kind of records transpired from the information the Department of Environmental Management received from the last report especially with green waste. One of his main concerns with Environmental Management is their budget. Ms. Maddox stated that on page 5 of the last report, there was a presentation from the County’s Green Team and their draft report. She asked if there was a copy of that draft report to view. Ms. Garson replied she does not know if another report was done but the Commission could invite a member from the Green Team. Ms. Maddox asked Mr. Matsuda if the presentation was helpful in doing their work. Mr. Matsuda replied it was interesting. Ms. Garson noted that Julie Myhre is the Energy Specialist at the Department of Water Supply. Mr. Perry said he’s talked to Julie and she would be more than happy to do a presentation but also recommended inviting the energy coordinator for the County, Will Rolston. Ms. Maddox asked if anyone knew about the quarterly reports that were noted in the past report. It stated the Mayor was to assign an administrative assistance to track the status of the tasks approved. Ms. Garson replied she would check with Mr. Wally Lau on that. Ms. Kierkiewicz stated that in addition to making the County government more cost effective, the Commission should look at ways to enhance revenue. Mr. Mitchell agreed and stated he would be interested in looking at bonds, interest rates and depreciation. Ms. Maddox said another thing of interest is the recommendations that relate to collective bargaining issues. Ms. Garson stated the best person to talk too is Human Resources, Sharon Toriano or Nick Hermes. Ms. Kierkiewicz stated the Commission shouldn’t even focus on that issue if they are part of the collective bargaining. Ms. Maddox stated they should focus on recommendations that have opportunities for implementation. Mr. Matsuda agreed with Ms. Maddox and Ms. Kierkiewicz. He said there will be certain things that you will not be able to budge. Mr. Perry stated you can make suggestions. 2