Laserfiche WebLink
an effective system of checks and balances--constitute the most <br /> vital elements of the Hawaii County Charter , and can best be <br /> realized through a distinct separation of executive and <br /> legislative authority . <br /> Clearly , it is the charge of this Charter Review <br /> Commission to safeguard and enhance that structure ; to ensure <br /> that ours will be a government of laws , rather than of men--or <br /> women. The fundamental weakness or strength of this structure <br /> will always be the performance of imperfect <br /> individuals--primarily those who are most directly accountable <br /> to and elected by the voting public . While this commission <br /> must necessarily be aware of differences , limitations and <br /> potential abuses of those within either branch of our <br /> government , the structure itself must be designed or modified <br /> irrespective of the specific individuals involved. The key <br /> "players" presiding over both branches of government should be <br /> those chosen directly by our citizens through the election <br /> process . Perhaps only in this way can accountability , checks <br /> and balances , and the independent action of each respective <br /> branch of government be reasonably assured . <br /> We should note that the Hawaii County Charter is not <br /> merely a mission statement or an historical document . It is a <br /> "tool" that enables County officers and employees to fulfill <br /> that mission and respond to any anticipated or unforseen set of <br /> circumstances . It is something our agency heads and <br /> professional staff consult , more or less , on a daily basis . <br /> 482 <br /> -2- <br />