HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0796.008 2022-2024P/GOEAC
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April 15, 2024
Council Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs Committee
Cindy Evans, Chair
Susan L. K. Leeloy, Vice Chair
MEETING DATE: April 16, 2024
TIME: 2:20 pm f`' •=;v}
PLACE: Kona
RE: Comments in OPPOSIITON to Bill 145
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Dear Chair Evans and Committee Members:
I am a full-time resident of Kona and fill various volunteer roles across the state,
including one as a Hawaii County Commissioner. However, my background (law degree and
MBA in sustainable business) isn't always directly related to my volunteer work. I write today to
oppose the limitations that Bill 145 would impose on the experience of volunteers who would
seek to serve on one of our County's Planning Commissions.
As a volunteer for matey non-profit organizations across various disciplines and
community efforts through the years, I understand firsthand how the diverse background of those
individuals serving with me have contributed to tine broad and sometimes profound conversations
and perspectives that are shared in our discussions. At times I am awed by the novel ideas that
have been offered by those who have absolutely zero background in the subject of conversation,
yet their thoughtful contemplation, questions, and unique experiences provide meaningful insight
and an invaluable point of view.
I propose that the fresh eyes of those volunteers who do not have the specific
backgrounds to `color' their reading or discussion of a particular issue is very much needed.
Somewhat like a jury, it is the role of the paid professionals in the county, and any public
testimony, to provide the commissioners with the framework and details needed for them to
make a decision. I assume that the various county departments would provide any required
information or answer any questions asked by the commission to supplement the cases put before
them; they don't themselves need to have that personal knowledge. I also suspect an already
difficult commission to seat would become nearly impossible to fill if this bill passed.
While I understand the desire to seek individuals with technical knowledge and
experience in the various areas that are of concern for the commissions' deliberations, I strongly
discourage establishing these as qualifications and/or requirements for the commissioner role.
Thank you for the opportunity to testify.
Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer Wilkinson
Comak. No. �•
Ref. 70:
Ref. DateAPH 16 2024