HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0785.022 2022-2024 P/&ZAC-
till PS
COM►4.735
March 30, 2024
Hon. Cindy Evans
Chairperson
Hon. Susan Lee Loy
Vice Chairperson
Committee on Government Operations and External Affairs r^,
Hawaii County Council ,
Hawaii County Building
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, Hawaii, 96720
Dear Chairperson Evans, Vice Chairperson Lee Loy and Members,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 143, which proposes to extend council
members' terms and eliminate term limits.
I am perplexed and dismayed by the priorities this bill represents, especially considering the
myriad of urgent issues facing our community. Our island grapples with significant challenges,
including inadequate trash, water, and sewage services, a pressing public safety crisis,
escalating homelessness, and a permitting process that not only doubles the cost of homes but
also drives our families away.
In the midst of these pressing issues, the focus on extending terms and removing term limits
seems misaligned with the community's needs.
Local elected positions are traditionally seen as service roles, not long-term careers. The
importance of rotation in these roles cannot be overstated, as it ensures that a wide array of
individuals, each with different experiences and perspectives, has the Opportunity to serve our
community. This diversity is crucial for a vibrant and responsive local government.
It is also worth noting that in the last election cycle, only one out of nine districts proceeded to
the general election. This fact alone significantly limited the electorate's ability to participate in
our democratic process. Such a scenario inherently benefits incumbents and, when combined
with the prospect of longer terms and more lenient term limits proposed by Bill 143, paves the
way for the kind of long-term incumbency that is often associated with corruption and the
entrenchment of power. This is not the democratic vision we aspire to for our island or for
America.
Moreover, the parallels between this bill and measures proposed by figures like Vladimir Putin in
Russia are deeply concerning. Such policies, designed to consolidate long-term power, have no
place in a democracy that values fairness, transparency, and the regular infusion of fresh ideas
and leadership. Implementing a bill like Bill 143 moves us away from these principles, pushing
us toward a governance model that we, as Americans, have long stood against. ('
Comm. No.
Ref. To:
Ref. hate (APR o 2 1024
Perhaps most troubling is the manner in which Bill 143 has been introduced. Presenting such a
significant change to our electoral process right before an election, without sufficient public
discourse, is not just dishonest—it is a direct affront to the democratic process. This tactic
effectively blindsides the electorate and severely disadvantages potential challengers, further
entrenching current power structures and denying our community a fair and open election.
In conclusion, I urge the Hawaii County Council to reconsider its priorities and focus on
addressing the real and pressing issues that our community faces. The path laid out by Bill 143
is not in the best interest of our island's residents. It undermines the democratic process,
diminishes public trust, and distracts from the urgent work that needs to be done to improve the
lives of those living on our island.
Please, listen to the voices of your constituents. We need leadership that is focused on service,
accountability, and the resolution of our most pressing challenges—not on securing longer terms
in office. I strongly oppose Bill 143 and hope that you will take these concerns seriously as you
consider the future direction of our island's governance.
Sincerely,
Joshua Montgomery
Guard Well Farm
75-1097 Keopu Mauka Dr.
Holualoa, HI 96725
Ph: +1 (785) 840 6155
Email: Joshua.montgomery(a�quardwellfarm.com