COMM. 177 Planning Dept - CA-15 Land Fund

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Hawai'i County Charter Commission Page 3 January 21, 2010 The proposal in its current form increases the authority of the commission by requiring the Director of Finance to "enter into negotiations for the acquisition of these lands in the order of the prioritized list developed by the commission." The commission would no longer be merely advisory but have actual decision making authority. This removes the council's role in determining which properties should be acquired first and does not provide flexibility in negotiating for particular properties that may come up for sale, be in bankruptcy or may otherwise be available for purchase. The proposal includes substantial language defining the duties and roles of the commission, mandated staffing by the Finance Department, a website, monthly reports and includes other sections setting up the process for the commission to conduct its duties and prioritize a list of lands. Much of this language is either unnecessary as it is already provided for in other sections of the Charter, covered by state law or is better placed in the county code instead of the Charter. The Charter is intended to be a relatively short, concise document setting out the organization of county government. If the proposal does go forward to the ballot, it should just set up the fund but allow the council by ordinance to set up procedures for the commission to follow. Sincerely, BJ LEITHEAD TODD Planning Director