HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0818.002 2020-2022 I
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MEEKER,ROGER V. ATTORNEY AT LA
P.O. Box 57
HAWAII NATIONAL PARK
HAWAII 967 t 8
PHONE; (808)687-2223
E-MAIL: RVM.TIKIGGMAIL.00M
4 July 2022
Cil
County Council -
County of Hawaii s
25 Aupuni Street a' `
Hilo, Hawaii 96720 _
Re: Opposition to Bill 179 . .
County Charter Amendment Requiring _
Midterm Council Reconfirmation of Department Heads
Dear Council Members:
1 write in opposition to Bill 179.
While acknowledging the sentiment and frustration behind the proposed County Charter amendment which
proposes requiring midterm Council reconfirmation of County department heads,this Charter change would
very poorly serve the County.
First,it is important that the Mayor—any mayor—have the ability to choose his or her own cabinet. The
voters elect a mayor trusting that individual's judgment to assemble a team which can carry out the policies the
majority of voters supported. The department head choices a mayor makes are subject to intensive vetting by
the Council when those nominees are initially put forth—as was amply demonstrated after the most recent
mayoral election.
Second,and even more importantly,subjecting cabinet appointees to additional midterm vetting—the
proverbial"second bite of the apple"—will absolutely discourage quality individuals from agreeing to serve the
people of the County. Quality department head candidates are not easy to come by. They typically have done
well in the private sector,and going into public service is usually a career and financial sacrifice for them.
Committing to 4(and sometimes 8)years at least gives those individuals an opportunity to make a positive
difference toward the betterment of Hawaii County. However,getting someone to do that knowing they could
be bounced after only 2 years? How many successful,highly-qualified people would want to take that chance?
Please reconsider your initial support of Bill 179. 1 feel Hawaii County will very much rue the day should it pass.
ahalo for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Roger V. Meeker
Comm. No. o'
e .T : p
Ref. Date jUL 6 2022