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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN FC 2024/04/09,10,11 (2022-2024) Special Finance (draft summary) Committee on Finance 33`'d Session Special Meeting Departmental Budget and Program Reviews Hawaii County Building 25 Aupuni Street Hilo, Hawaii April 9, 2024 CALL TO The regular meeting of the Committee on'Finance was called, order at ORDER: 9:01 a.m., in the Council Chambers, Hilo, by Mr. Matt Kanealil'i- Kleinfelder, Chair. ROLL CALL: Present: Mr. Matt Kaneali`i- Kleinfelder, Chair Ms. Cindy Evans, Vice Chair Ms. Michelle M. Galimba,Member Mr. Holeka Goro Inaba, Member Ms. Jenn Kagiwada, Member Ms. Ashley L. Kierkiewicz, Member Ms. Heather L. Kimball, Member Ms. Susan L. K: Lee Loy, Member Ms, Rebecca Villegas, Member(via videoconference from Kona) STATEMENTS The Chair directed the Committee to proceed to the next order of business, FROM THE Statements from the Public on Agenda Items. PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS: (There were none.) CHR KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Mr. Clerk, can you please read our two bills. Bills 136 and 137, and all related communications. FC-33 April 9-11,2024 BILLS FOR The Chair directed the Committee to proceed to the next order of business, ORDINANCES: Bills for Ordinances. Bill 136: ESTABLISHES AN OPERATING BUDGET FOR THE COUNTY OF HAWAII FOR THE FISCAL YEAR JULY 1, 2024, TO JUNE 30, 2025 From Mayor Mitchell D. Roth, dated March 1, 2024, transmitting for consideration the proposed Operating Budget for the County of Hawaii for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2025. This balanced budget includes estimated revenues and appropriations of$888,082,546, which represents a proposed 6.6 percent increase compared to the Fiscal Year 2023-24 Operating Budget. Reference: Comm. 755 Intr. by: Mr�.,Kaneali'i-KI einfelder(B/R) and Comm. 755.1: From Finance Director Diane Nakagawa, dated March 1, 2024, transmitting reports entitled, Departmental& Agencies'Six Month,Progress Report on Program Objectives for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 and Final Status Report on Program Objectives for Fiscal Year 2022-2023. (Note: Comm. 755.3, from Finance Director Diane Nakagawa dated April 9, 2024, transmitting expenditure reports for FY 2024 through March 31, 2024, were circulated.) Motion to Approve: Ms. Lee Loy moved to recommend passage of Bill 136 on first reading. Seconded by Mr. Inaba. Bill 137: RELATES TO PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS AND FINANCING THEREOF FOR THE FISCAL YEAR.JULY 1, 2024, TO JUNE 30, 2025 From Mayor Mitchell D. Roth, dated March 1, 2024, transmitting the proposed Capital;Budget for FY 2024-2025 and the Capital Improvements Program for the next six years from fiscal Year 2024-2025 to 2029-2030, which includes 57 projects requiring a total appropriation of$392,335,000 of which $307,513,000 are intended to be funded in whole or part by bonds, $42,410,000 to be funded by Federal Grants, $41,462,000 to be funded by the State Revolving Loan Fund or State Capital Improvement Projects, and $950,000 to be funded by CBA (Community Benefit Assessments)/Other. Reference: Comm. 756 Intr. by: Mr. Kaneali`i- Kleinfelder(B/R) Motion to Approve: Ms. Lee Loy moved to recommend passage of Bill 137 on first reading. Seconded by Mr. Inaba. Page 2 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 DEPARTMENTAL The Chair directed the Committee to proceed to the next order of business PROGRAM Departmental Budget and Program Reviews. AND BUDGET REVIEWS: (1) Mayor—Overview of the Operating and Capital Budgets and Programs: CHR KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: We have the Mayor*joining us today. Thank you for being here today, Mr. Roth. Could you get us started this morning. Thank you for your presence. (Note: At this time, Mayor Mitchell 0. Roth came forward to address the members of the Committee.) MAYOR ROTH: Aloha, good morning, Council Chair Kimball and Members of the County Council. Before I get started, I'd like to really just acknowledge our team behind us; our Directors, Deputy'Directors, and staff that have come here to, not only help present the budget, but they,actually played a huge role in making sure that this budget was the way it is. I also want to recognize our Managing Director, Deanna Sako. And our Finance Director, and Deputy Director, Diane Nakagawa, and Aaron Brown, who really spent a lot of time working on this budget; I also want to4hank you Council Members who played a part in going to some of triose budget meetings and listening in and helped give some idea, as the process went along. (Note, At this time, Mayor Roth provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, see the DVD 'copy of the proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office, or online at http:Hhawaiicountygranicus.com. A copy of the presentation is made part of the record; see Comm. 755.2.) CHR KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Mahalo, Mr. Roth. Before you get up, I was going to ask the Council if there's any questions or comments for the Mayor, from the Council. Okay, I see a few. Are you open to taking some questions, Mayor Roth? Council Member Kimball, go ahead. MS. KIMBALL: I just wanted to thank you, Mayor Roth, for taking the time to come down and give us an introductory overview of the budget. We look forward to hearing from all of the Directors and Administrators from your Administration. Page 3 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 You know this is a collaborative effort between the Legislative Branch and the Executive Branch. So, I just wanted to mahalo you for making time to be here today, and we look forward to the conversations. Thank you. CHR KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you. Council Member Evans, go ahead. And then Council Member Kierkiewicz. MS. EVANS: Thank you. Good morning. Thank you for the really nice introduction to what's starting for three days here. One thing you didn't comment on that I'm very curious about is, what is the Hawaii State Legislature considering that may have an influence on our budget. And maybe just give us a moment about, I know you have your policy team, I know you're following this closely. I know you went over there and testified`tothe,Legislature. `Is there something there? You know, I'm very curious because I think that can have influence. MAYOR ROTH: So, you know, I can talk to you a little bit as you know, the Mayors of the State. We have a Council of Mayors, and this year,"our strategy for Hawaii Island as for everybody else, was pretty much playing defense. We know the State is looking at making sure Maui is being funded. And we're fine with that. We know thatthey had terrible incident that happened over there, and it's going to be important to take care of Maui. Because as Maui goes, so goes the State. At this'stage,; e're kind of coming to the end of the Legislative period. I'm not sure if there's any real big budget hits that we're taking. We know that there's been'several ideas that have come up at the Legislature to take away funds for the County,. ;Luckily,those have died; Notably, the one where the Legislature wanted to take some of our Real Property Taxes to fund projects on the State side. We're very grateful that that did not pass. There is a belief over there that the County is not charging its taxpayers enough. But whenwe've talked to people, I know all of you have talked to people in businesses, you've talked to homeowners. People have been struggling to get by. Hawaii County was very lucky coming out of COVID (Coronavirus Disease). We're the only county to actually reduce our ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, and refers to families who earn more than the Federal Poverty Level but not enough to afford a basic household budget) numbers, our Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed. That being said, we still have families that are struggling. That's why we're looking at, you know, the tax breaks for our homeowners and affordable housing tax rates. Because our people are still struggling. Page 4 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 Costs are still rising throughout the country. Again, we're not immune to that. And we need to do everything we can to make sure that we're taking care of our people here. I hope that answers that question. MS. EVANS: Okay, thank you. CHR KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you. Council Member Kierkiewicz. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you, Chair. Mayor, it's great to see you. I just want to take a moment to thank you for your leadership;for all of the leadership that your department heads extend and all of the great work,you know, the people of Hawaii County do. We are a service-based business. And so, we really do rely on our folks to deliver essential programs and services. I just also want to take a moment tee thank you for leading with such kindness and respect. There's so much divisiveness at every level of government, and so, I know it takes a lot to kind of maintain that decor and professionalism, and I just wanted to acknowledge that. Thank you for the recognition of adjusting reatprQperty tax rates, especially for homeowners' class and affordable housing. That is'something that a number of us here on the dais have said'over the lAstyear. So, we appreciate you listening and making those adjustmentsbecause,I think that's really going to make a positive impact on cost of living, which you highlighted being so high here in the islands. If you could just take a moment, I have a few questions for you here. I like to budget for outcomes. So, I hear a lot:of like, talk around priorities; around you know, wantinglo,solve affordable housing and ensuring that our kids, you know, stay here. So, you've talked about different buckets that you're investing in. How are you going to ensure thatthe work gets done, that there's transparency and accountability in the process that we are, you know, ensuring that performance is happening And that we are meeting the goals that we've set up for ourselves? MAYOR ROTH: Thank you. You know, there's a couple of things. First, I want to thank you because it is teamwork. And it's teamwork, not only between department heads and departments, but it's also teamwork with this Council. And I feel this last year, we've really improved on a lot of that teamwork working together with the Council to make decisions. That being said, you know, we have been focusing on departments and kind of watching over to make sure that they're doing things. And I think the proof is really in the pudding. Looking at Housing, is a big one. One of the things that we talked about is permits. How long it takes a permit, because we know the longer it takes for a Page 5 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 permit to get approved, the more expensive it's going to be? And we've seen great reductions in permitting both from the Building Division as well as from Planning. As well, as you know some of other areas, fires, and things like that. So, those things, I said I think the proof is in the pudding. Looking at Housing, you know, working with affordable housing or workforce housing. When we came into office, we had about 1,243 units that were in the pipeline. And today, we're sitting at about 8,100. So, we've actually increased those numbers that are in the pipeline, trying to get that done. Part of that has been, getting back to your statement:earlier is, making sure that we're meeting together and having those conversations. Conversations with the departments, whether it be Housing, Public Works, Planning Water, Fire sometimes. Having everybody in the room to see how we can facilitate versus have people try to figure their ways through. A lot of it has been just making sure that we're measuring what we're doing. So, you'll see that there's Dashboards that have been corning up. So, we have Dashboards at Public Works. Office of Housing has been putting up Dashboards. We're trying to get Dashboards in different areas because what you measure is what you'll accomplish. So, I think part of what you're asking is already been proven out, in that we have been making significant improvements across the line. You know, seeing that we're bringing in more grants, something that we want to focus heavily on is another one,that we've seen the fruits of the labor. MS: KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you forthat. You mentioned not wanting to finance projects if we can avoid it, on the backs of our taxpayers, and I couldn't agree more. What are some ways in which you can identify that the County can save money? Ahd,I,would also like your thoughts on how we can be leveraging public-private partnerships. I'm aware of an entity called Sustainability Partners where they come in and they can finance the development of County infrastructure. In my mind that would be a tremendous'cost saving. So,just wondering if you can comment on that. MAYOR ROTH: Okay, I'll start with Sustainability Partner because we are working with Sustainability Partners helping us redo our charging stations. We're going to be financing a lot of our fleet vehicles, which will be green fleet vehicles through them. It's also looking at different ways of financing things, and that's really what Sustainability Partners is doing. Rather than just buying the stuff, they will lease it. Then we have somebody else own those vehicles, and we pay a price. We think what we're seeing the State's done that. We're moving in that realm. I think we have our first vehicles arriving pretty soon. I think we have our first Page 6 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 charging stations that will be put in pretty soon. Working with them on bussing and stuff like that. So, we have different areas there. I think another thing that is really important to your first question is, if we take care of what we have it will save us money on the backend. Give you some really good examples. We had some buildings; we had a gym that is not going to cost us $10 million to replace. We had to take down that gym, Papa`aloa Gym. It's going to be a beautiful gym there. I mean we went out, we met with the community. The community is really happy. We allowed them to be a part of that but. But the fact that we had to take down that gym because we didn't take care of that building is costing us a lot of money. So, part of this is making sure that we take care of what we have. It's really easy as a Mayor to say, we're going to build a new park. Everybody loves you when you build a new park. But when you take care of the Hilo Wastewater Facility, that's going to cost us probably mbre than anything we spent in this County, because we didn't really do a great job at taking care of it. You know, that's kind of a shame. So, I think a big part of that is making sure that we are taking care of what we already have, and that way we'll reduce the cost in the future. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: You've kind of walked into,my next question. You had a list of focused areas for this upcoming fiscal year. Ididn't see facilities on there, or is that included in infrastructure? You talked about taking care of what we have. I drive by Central Fire Station almost every other day taking my son to play at Lincoln park,which is pretty great. And it really breaks my heart. It breaks my heart to see the deteriorating condition of this fire station, that is the home away from home for somany of our first responders. And that is not the only fire station that is in'that situation. So, I'm very curious about the overall Asset Management Plan, as it relates to facilities for our County. MAYOR ROTH: So, I will tell you that we are working on a plan to work on Central Fire Station; We're actually in the process of putting that together. We'll talk a little bit more about that. We're probably moving our firefighters out of that station while that work gets done. But yes, we're also looking at different facilities that we need to really work on. I think probably the best example of that is throughout the parks. Parks has a whole list of different work that they're planning on. We've also asked them to look at all the roofs, because we know when the roofs are bad then everything else kind of follows that. So, yes, and I'll let some of the department heads talk about that as they come up. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: So, on the facilities piece, Asset Management Plan. This is a question for Building Division, correct? Page 7 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 MAYOR ROTH: Yes. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Okay. I just want to make sure I know who to direct these questions to. MAYOR ROTH: But also, through different departments. I think Parks probably has a lot of these things coming up, so sorry, Mo. Is he here? Not here? Oh, there he is. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: He's hiding. So, is Steve. MAYOR ROTH: They both kind of poked their heads out. So, they'll be able to answer some of those questions. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Okay, I have a few more questions. We as a Council received, I want to say yesterday, an email from a County Employee with over 30 years of service here wondering about if the Administration would be able to look at getting rid of the payroll lag that was instituted under the Kenoi Administration where there is one paycheck basically for the month of June and so, cost of living is so high. And having to wait a few extra days is just something that is really going to break a lot of families. So,is that something your office can look into? MAYOR ROTH: Unfortunately, I'm going to say no, but I'm going to ask Deanna to come up,and answer that. Because we justlooked at this yesterday, and she can explain it'd lot,,Ibetter than I can. (Note: At this time, Managing Director Deanna Sako came forward to address the members of the Committee.) MS:SAKO: I think all of us would like to get rid of the payroll lag, you know, that moves the June 30th paycheck to July 1't. But you know, the new accounting software that Finance is in the process of implementing to do a true time and attendance program where we can pay people currently and track all of their hours and leaves, so that we can do the electronic timesheets and all of that. That's going to require a full payroll lag. So, we'll actually going to probably fund advance basically, one paycheck to employees to be able to pay, you know, we know no one can go without a paycheck. So, if anything we're going to have to advance and pay, and all the payrolls will be like two weeks, pretty much on one pay period like all the other counties in the State. But people will still get paid. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Okay, that's helpful. Thank you. Mayor, couple more questions. You talked about investing strategically for tomorrow. What are ways in which your budget is doing that for emergency preparedness, community Page 8 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 resilience, workforce development, and public safety? Not just being tough on crime, but making sure that there are resources here on the island to support things like rehabilitation? MAYOR ROTH: So, yes, we're also working with there's a lot in that one. So, let's start with substance abuse, mental health; we're working together with the State Department of Health as well as the Governor. One of the things we saw become available on the State side for DLNR (Department of Land and Natural Resources) is the old Back of Hawaii building on-Kawili Street. So, what we're looking at doing for that building is turning it into aMental Health Crisis Center where police officers and first responders cans take people 24/7, having different agencies that are there, so they're being able to take care.. - We're looking at the area also at the Old Memorial Hospital and seeing if we can partner with the State to put a State Department of Health facility up there as well. As far as substance abuse, we've taken our opioid funds and worked together to help create our first detox center, which has actually opened in Hilo. It's the first one on this island. It's not enough at the current time, but we're looking at ways to do a better job there. Kind of in that same realm, also looking at our first responders and our police. Through our office together with'I' O I(Health) and the Police Department, we've trained 75 officers to date in crisis intervention teams. That's really important having police better be able to respond to the people out in the street. I actually wer tto' Florida a couple years back when I was the Prosecutor, and I wasn't too high on the idea when'l went over there. But when I talked to the officers,,one of the things that they,said is, through that training they were able to reduce the,amount of 'Officers being shot at; the amount of officers shooting; the amount of officer injuries,'as well as taking care of the community on the street. Talking to the families that had someone in mental health crisis, that made a huge difference. Some of the other things in, you know, being prepared for the future, we're working a lot with our Civil Defense Administration, Talmage Magno. We're actually in the process of doing drills, getting ready for tsunami preparedness. We're trying to get out there and do more frontend loading than in the back. Again, trying to be prepared for the future. We're also working with Council Member Kimball on another training for Civil Defense that's coming up. I think a lot of you will be attending that. So, there's a lot of little things. I should have written down all the things that you said, but it's just a lot of preparation thinking proactively rather than reactively to a lot of the problems that we deal with. Page 9 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Last question. It's regarding the Sustainability Summit. I know that sustainability is the signature theme of your Administration. I wonder if you could speak about it,just because I've only heard so much about it around the edges, but haven't ever really been formally invited to participate as a Council Member. So,just wanted to give you an opportunity to talk about, what's been achieved over the last few years. There were two summits, there were TED talks. There was a third summit. There's only so long that we can talk about what we want to do, and at some point, the rubber's got to meet they road. So, maybe talk about some of the things that you're looking forwardto and how we as Council Members can be engaged. MAYOR ROTH: I think there's several things that have come out. You know, the first Sustainability Summit we did online,you know, it was kind of an event I promised when I was running, that we'd do it within the first 104 days. Of course, I had my heart attack, but on the 8e day we actually put on the Sustainability Summit where we had about 1,200 people that—maybe a little bit more than that, that were registered. Probably over 30,000 from the other hat that'ypu wear, Na Leo presented. And I'm still on Na Leo, so,people still go back and still view that. I think some of the biggest outcomes whetherpeople say, that's whatit's from, we start thinking about sustainability. We started'thinking about taking care of our community. I think that looking at OSCER(Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience). That is one of the things that our County has really taken on as a new department. So, looking at opening a department of sustainability. I think there's going to be a lotof shoot-offs of that. Yoli, in North Kohala, although that's put on by a Hawaii Community Foundation University of Hawaii ASU, Hawaii County. That's a Sustainability Summit Center on our island. You know, I think that's really fascinating because two of the keynote speakers in the first Sustainability Summit, Nainoa Thompson and John De Fries talked about Hawai`i Island being the classroom for the world. I think it's really given us that ability. We've been working on a lot of green energy projects. You know, we became part of the hydrogen alliance with Namie Japan and Lancaster. So, we're looking at seeing a lot more development in green energy. 1 know'we have a RFP that's coming out real soon to look at how we can do a better job of having renewable energy for various projects, whether we're talking about our wastewater or other ways of making sure that we are doing a better job of reducing our costs through our lightings, for example. I know we're talking on several areas of some rebates that we're able to get. So, there's actually quite a bit of work that has gone on. We also have our first Climate Action Plan that is now a part of the County that has been put out in the Page 10 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 last couple of years. So, I think there's been a lot of things that have happened since that first idea of this summit. The next one, we have a Youth Summit that, you know, we really worked together with outside groups as well as the Council to make sure that's happening. I think that's coming up next month. The other part of the summit that's coming up is a kind crf'a;day where we bring people together, as well as a more focused Sustaindbility Summit. A lot of this has been, rather than just taken from the Mayor's Office, we've spread the wealth and allowed other people to get involved in leading roles inahe planning for the Sustainability Summit. There's so much I can say on this: You know, as you look at this Administration as well as this Council, we have really made, I don't want to put words in your mouth, but I hear t'when I listen to your meetings, the future of this community is the priority of sustainability, the ability to allow our kids to raise their kids here in Hawaii County.` I think has resonated with all of us. And I think that was something else that has come from that summit. I think about some of the bills thathave been passed: The no-spray bills, I think well, they don't necessarily just come from that. I think all of us has the opportunity to hear the voices of people,.and we've actually given a lot of voice on what we as elected officials need to focus on: And the Sustainability Summit's really have,given a showcase there. MS: KIERKIEICZ: Thank you, Mayor. I really appreciate indulging me in all of my questions. You know, as someone born and raised here now has the privilege to be serving in'this capacity. I just want to make sure that I know some of the plans and visions that you have for our County, that way I know ways in which I can step up and support. Thank you for being here. CHR KANEALI`I-kLEINFELDER: Thank you. Council Member Lee Loy. MS. LEE LOY: Thank you, Chair. Mayor, thanks for being here. You know, when you sit over here long enough, you get to see a lot. And I remember when We started here you were actually in the Prosecuting Attorney's Office, and I was trying to swallow off a $460 million budget. And here I am looking at an $888 Million budget. So, for me, I think my lens definitely can see a lot of transformation, and I really want to thank you for that. Council Member Kierkiewicz took a lot of my questions, but I just wanted to clarify two areas. You had a slide that had the $888 million budget, and it broke it out into expenditures. I just want to clarify because there's areas of Highway. Does that include all of our fuel tax, or is that just what's coming? Okay, I see. Page 11 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 Great. And we'll get to this when we get to your department, But I just wanted to clarify that one slide. That's the one Mayor. MAYOR ROTH: The revenue or the expenditures? MS. LEE LOY: The expenditures. (Note: At this time, Finance Director Diane Nakagawa came forward to address the members of the Committee.) MS. NAKAGAWA: Good morning, Council Members, Diane Nakagawa, Finance Department. Yes,just to clarify, on the $888 million expenditure slide as well as the revenue slide, that includes all our funds. MS. LEE LOY: Great. Thanks,;perfect. And Mayor, you know;I know you're not responsible from when I started as far as the budget, but we've seen an increase of$300 million over your four terms. And you mentioned a lot of work you wanted to do around parks. I think you mentioned roads, parks, housing. But I'm more curious about the investments that we're going to be making because we have a lot of mandates'related,to cesspool conversation, and I just wanted to hear a little bit more aboutwhat that investment looks like, and I want to couch it with this, the transformation of our building permit process was something that was kind of brought to us during previous administrations. The Council made investments around software and technology. A complete overhaul of thatcode to match the permitting process. As policy makers I'm tryingto set us up,for that success. And I'm trying to look for areas where a policy maker can:match the investments that the Administration is advancing to make those,great gains. Mayor, you and tcempletely believe in the good to great model. We believe in budgeting for outcomes. So, I want to hear a little bit about where those investments;are, because we know our waste has fallen by the wayside long before you and even long before me. MAYOR ROTH: So, cesspool conversions, you know. Interesting that you're bringing that up right now. One of the things we've invested in, we have a consultant that has come and started looking at the various ways we can more forward, because by 2045, we have to convert a lot. I think over 48,000 known cesspools. What's scary is the unknown ones that we don't know could be another 10,000 cesspools. So, I would love to say that I have a great plan moving forward. You know, one of the things that we saw when we went out to look at just the district of Puna, to put Page 12 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 sewer lines and a facility out in Puna just for Puna, we're looking at between $4 to $12 billion. That's a lot of money. And that's not the whole island. That's you know,just one district. So, it would be easy for us to just go out and say, here's what we're going to do. We're going to make blah, blah, blah, blah. But what we're doing right now is we're going out with our consultant; we're talking to the community, and allowing the community to help us make that plan. There're ideas;but I really believe having the community be a part of this and make these decisions is super important. I want to go back for a second to Papa`aloa Gym. You know, we had plans. We went out into the community. The community was really not happy with those plans. Well, we said this is just the starting point. You know,' e were at a meeting about a week-and-a-half ago, two weeks ago where are three, four, or five meetings, the community's plans or,the plans that we drew taking into the community's feedback were presented to the community. From a room full of angry people into a room'of people that said yeah. That's something that we want; We have to do the same thing, I think, with the cesspool conversation. Because there's so much that's involved: There's someone who sent me an email saying,you knew, don't let them put septic tanks in. You know, I think we're going to have to have septic tanks. But how we do this is really going to be really important to have the community's input. We're hoping that there's a lot of grant funds in the future. We know that the County is going to have to pay for some places in the future. But really, I can't just say, this is what we're going to,do without waiting to hear from the community who we'vewent out there and said, we want to hear your voice. Same thing with our General Plan. People think, oh, they just put out a General Plan. We've extended the time for people to put comments in the General Plan for the same reason. We really do want to hear from the community, and we really do want to make sure that their voice is heard. MS. LEE LOY: Yeah, Mayor, I think these are big problems that need long runways to solve. I do appreciate the input from our consultant. I'm a little alarmed by the EPA's (Environmental Protection Agency) notice. What I read was, "Significant operational and mechanical deficiencies," MAYOR ROTH: That goes back to, you know, Council Member Kierkiewicz's question. You know, if were taking care of those things for the last 20 years, we would not have had those significant problems that we have now. Page 13 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 MS. LEE LOY: I think to the point, right? With the needs assessment that we've been pushing for so long, right? Identifying all of the assets and the conditions of the assets so that when we're making strategic investments, they're smart. So, I really do appreciate the answers. I will be looking at my colleagues as we kind of run through the departments. But I do recognize that we have to set that goal. I understand your goal of sustainability and keeping our kids home. But there's just some fundamental mechanics that the County is responsible for. Public health and safety, our roads,police and fire, and waste. Itis on every county to handle their waste, both solid and water. And I really wantto see some strategic investments in that area. So, we can, as you mentioned, we lead. We lead at `Iole, we lead in Housing, we lead in opportunities and economic development here on Hawaii Island. We are the classroom of the world. I want us to lead in this area and strategic investments around this budget would help us do that. Mayer,thank you for your time and your answers. And thank you for having all of yourdepartment heads here. Thank you, Chair, I yield. CHR KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you.,,Council Member Kagiwada. MS. KAGIWADA: Thank you. Thank you, Mayor for being here and presenting this today, and you know,for all the work you've done. I just want to bring up today, as we look at the budget, and as we look at, you talk about, you know, investing in our assets and what we have. Now,Lwant to bring up downtown Hilo. It's not a physical asset that we own, but it's so emblematic of our County. So, I think it's important to our residents. So, can you highlight or maybe—I'm going to be looking in this budget to see what things will be supporting the kind of, revitalization and support of our downtown Filo area with an,eye for that. I'm just wondering is there's anything you want to highlight in this budget for the public that you can say, you know, we really do care about downtown Hilo. MAYOR ROTH: Sure. First off, you know, talking about infrastructure, a lot of people look at roads, and you know, I really want to give credit to Department of Public Works, the Highway Division, because they've doubled the amount of roads that they have paved since we came in. One of those roads, which we were able to walk on for the parade was Keawe Street and Kilauea, you know, downtown Hilo, which you've seen a lot of roadwork being put in there. I think the issues in downtown Hilo really come to the issue of homelessness, though. Page 14 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 I think together with the Council, we've given unpresented amounts of money to the homeless funds to work with the nonprofits. Reviewing funds for housing that, you know, generally these funds come from State and Federal sources. They generally don't come from County sources. We're in the $10's of millions of dollars that we have spent. Granted, you know, we may not have seen big changes yet. We are starting to see those changes. You know, some of the programs that we're seeing with the funds we've given away deal with things like our Street Medicine Programs. We're seeing that those are starting to be successful, not only in getting people who have serious mental disorders back into check, but;also reducing the amount of people going to our Emergency Rooms, which is another big issue,not only for downtown Hilo but for the whole island. Health care is a big issue. We're seeing that in Kona as well. You know, there's work that's being done right now,'both on the Kenna side and the Hilo side. Hilo Memorial Hospital where there's millions of dollars going into renovating the old hospital. But also looking at that area behind that hospital, that 10 acres where we're looking at permanent affordable housing., Part of the problem with homelessness right now, and what we're seeing in downtown Hilo is people don't Have a place to go. And I wish it was something we could just snap our fingers to change. But you know, it doesn't happen like that. We've been working with Safe Places, I think, one of which is the Salvation Army. We've been working through some contracts there to help create a safe place at the Salvation Army, where you know; some of our funds are going to be going to. We think it's really important,that we are, you know, taking care of everyone. But if we have a place where we canallow people to go that's safe, I think that will also take care of some of the issues that we're seeing in downtown Hilo, as well as other places, like Kenna; and other places on our island. So, we've made those investments, but again, you said in my State of the County, the difference between growing and eating, eating is real easy. You know, you sustain yourself when you grow; you sustain, you know, more everybody. Eating is quick, growing takes a little bit of time. So, we're going through that. Butit gets back to what both Council Members Kierkiewicz and Council Member Lee Loy brought up. It's investing in the future to make sure that we're able to deal with some of those issues. MS. KAGIWADA: Thank you, Mayor. And you know, I just want to support you in not taking your foot off the gas. Because like you said, some of these things are longer term to see results. So, appreciate what you've done so far. Page 15 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 I just hope we can continue to look at, you know, some of the complicated issues that are affecting our downtown and think creatively about, you know, you have departments. HPD (Hawai`i Police Department) has been so helpful. They've got new programs to help downtown. You've got DPW (Department of Public Works) helping with the roads. You've got Parks that's been helpful, and you've got your Mass Transit department who's looking to help with some of the issues around commuter lots and things like that. So, and of course, your Housing Department. They've been key, but I do think that the public wants to see very quick results, and they're not going to be very quick. So, I know, you know you can get a lotof cabs saying, what's going on? You've got to change direction or something. And I just hope we can continue, and like I said, I'll be scrutinizing this budget to see where we're continuing to,inv'est in supporting what's going on witfi downtown. MAYOR ROTH: Two things you mentioned you know, talking about the speed of change sometimes, they say when you turn around an aircraft carrier, it's slow but constant pressure that makes it turn. So, that's what we're doing. The other thing as far as dbwntown�and,public safety,you know, the Chief of Police has come up with a new planta helprecruit officers. We're seeing more recruits now. I think that will also help, and it kind of gets back to Council Member Kicrkiewicz's question too. MS: KAGIWADA: Terrific. Thank you so much and thanks for being here today. MAYOR ROTH: Thank you, CHR.KANEAL,I`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you. Council Member Galimba. MS. GALIMBA: Thank you. Thank you for being here, Mayor. You know, when I first came in we had a certain Administrator who was like the star Administrator. But I really think, you know, in the time that I've been here, I feel like all of the departments are really stars. So, you know, you can retire that. There really has been a lot of positive change. You're all Ando status. No, really, it's really been I think really a lot of really great change that I've seen just in the year. This budget, it's a very common sense. Not necessarily a very flashy budget, but I think the things that you bring up, are really important, like you know, pay raises. And the other thing that I focused on really is cyber security. Because that really is something that kind of almost keeps me awake at night. Yeah, it's not a sexy thing to get into, but if it goes wrong, it'll be very upsetting for a lot of people. Page 16 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 I guess for me, wanting to go from downtown Hilo to my part of the world, Ka`u, and South Kona, I think there's been a lot of, also, improvement or like looking down there, you know, we've been traditionally sort of overlooked. It's almost kind of gone both ways. We like our country lifestyle down there. So, it's you know, sort of a two-edged sword. But I really appreciate the efforts to look down there. I think a lot of folks, not just in the South, but throughout the island are seeing negative impacts of tourism on some of our sites. And I know we really do. Tourism is an important part of our budget and of our economy, but we also see a lot of our, you know, favorite places becoming inundated. So, I think it's going to take some creative thought, sort of on a County level to address that, and I wondered if you had any initial thoughts on that. MAYOR ROTH: And that thought is happening. When you getthepr,esentation from Research and Development Frecia Cevallos soon. She's been working very closely with HTA (Hawai`i Tourism Authority), theIsland of Hawaii Visitors Bureau, and other Stakeholders on our DMAP, Destination Management Action Plan. So, there's a lotof things that are part of that Destination Management Action Plan that kind of go to that. How we better deal with our tourist industries. We've been looking at that in different areas. Waipi`o Valley is in one of those areas that has really taken up that issue as well as in Kohala. We've seen some' of that. Interesting, we haven't heard too many thitigs, other than a recent development possibility. We really haven't heard that much in the Ka`u area.. MS. GALIMBA: Or in South Kona. MAYOR ROTH: It is something that we are definitely looking into. MS. GALIMBA Thanks so much to everyone for your hard work on this budget. MAYOR ROTH: And I'll just say, but you didn't ask the question, but the one I expected. You know, we are really working at beefing up our Animal Control as well. Because I know that is probably one of the bigger issues that we hear from Ka`u, and it is something that concerns us. And we're really trying to improve that: You know, it's indicative of a lot of things. We inherited a lot of things. By the end of the day, we're trying to make all those things better. MS. GALIMBA: Thanks for bringing that up, and I'm definitely wanting to continue working with you on getting the knots and bolts of making our Animal Control Division more effective. Thanks. CHR KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you. Council Member Inaba. Page 17 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 MR. INABA: Thank you, Chair. Good morning, Mayor Roth. Just a couple questions. For the OCE(Other Current Expenses) in your office, we're budgeting $262,000. Last year total spending was just$165,000, and as of nine days ago, only $80,000 spent on this line item. So, I just wanted to understand the need for a slight increase in light of no spend down in the last couple years. (Note: At this time, Managing Director Deanna Sako came forward to address the members of the Committee.) MS. SAKO: Good morning. Part of that was Lee Lard, before he retired, he did talk to each of the EA's (Executive Assistants)to look at existing programs and future programs that they want to work on. Soy a little bit additional funding was added for those programs that the EA's were specifically wanting to focus on. MR. INABA: Okay. So $5,000 more, you're,talking about those programs that we're adding on then. I see Peace Week, Community Wellness, Homeless Initiative, and Mental Health Summit. Some sof these I see as overlapped with the Homeless funds that we already allocate. So, what specifically is being spent for Homeless Initiative and Community Wellness? MS. SAKO: So, many of the EA's are working on different projects, and I can ask them to follow-up for your you know,which specific ones. A lot is kind of happening all over the place. And right now' , our focus is really on that Mental Health,Crisis,Center that the Mayor talked about earlier. MR. INABA: So, it's the Mental Health Crisis Center. What is the $1,000 going to be spent on?' Mental Health is'a huge issue, and I just see $1,000 here. MS. SAKO-,,l think that one is for the Summit that Tim was planning, but you know, some of the other Community Outreach and Response activities that have more,,,,,you know,higher amounts are probably the ones that are going to be working on getting that,center up and running as well as some CIP (Capital Improvement Project)V funds. MR. INABA: Okay. And for the Sustainability activities, the $50,000 is overall spent on what? MS: SAKO: I'll have to go back and look specifically at what that's spent, yeah. MR. INABA: Okay. And I'm seeing in other sections, Computer in office, a status quo request of$28,000, but actual spending, only $5,000. So, I'm just seeing overall a lack of spend down across all of these different sections in OCE were almost like $100,000. Are we planning to spend a lot in this last quarter? MS. SAKO: Yeah, there's actually quite a bit of equipment on order. Page 18 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 10:35 a.m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 10:35 a.m. (2) Department of Finance: (Note: At this time, Finance Director Diane Nakagawa and Deputy Director Aaron Brown came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Ms. Nakagawa provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council'svideo archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2) (Note: Discussion,continued for this department.) Recess: At 11:53 a.m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 12:O2'p.m. (3) Planning Departm6nt: (Note: At this time, Planning Director Zendo Kern and Deputy Director Jeff Darrow'came forward to address the members of the Committee.) -(Note: At this time, Mr. Kern provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 1:11 p.m. the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 1:36 p.m. Page 19 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 (4) Hawaii Fire Department: (Note: At this time, Fire Chief Kazuo Todd came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Mr. Todd provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department) Recess: At 2:53 p.m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 3:04 p.m. (5) Office of Aging: (Note: At this time, Executive on Aging Horace Farr came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Mr. Farr provided'aPowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD`copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council'svideo archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part oftherecord: See Comm. 755.2.) -(Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Relinquish Chair: At this time, the Chair relinquished the chair to Vice Chair Evans. Relinquish Chair: At this time, Acting Chair Evans relinquished the chair to Chair Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder. Recess: At*02 p.m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 4:13 p.m. Page 20 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 (6) Department of Public Works: (Note: At this time, Public Works Director Stephen Pause and Deputy Director Malia Kekai came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Mr. Pause provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 7:03 p.m., the Chair called fora recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 7:15 p.m. (7) Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience (OSCER): (Note: At this time, Interim Administrator Bethany Morrison came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note'-, ,At this time, Ms. Morrison provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicoun'ty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 7:49 p.m., the Chair called for a recess. Page 21 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 Reconvene: The Special Meeting of the Committee on Finance was reconvened in the Council Chambers, Hilo, at 9:02 a.m., Wednesday, April 10, 2024, by Mr. Matt Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Chair. ROLL CALL: Present: Mr. Matt Kaneali`i- Kleinfelder, Chair Ms. Cindy Evans, Vice Chair Ms. Michelle M. Galimba, Member Mr. Holeka Goro Inaba, Member (via videoconference from Kona) Ms. Jenn Kagiwada, Member Ms. Ashley L. Kierkiewicz, Member Ms. Heather L. Kimball, Member(came in later') Ms. Susan L. K. Lee Loy, Member (came in later) Absent& Excused: Ms. Rebecca Villegas, Member STATEMENTS The Chair directed the Committee to proceed,to the next order of business, FROM THE Statements from the Public on Agenda Items4� PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS: The following individuals registered to speak and,came forward when called by the Chair: Sylvia Dolena: Bill 136 (Comm. 755 ), comment. (representing,Aloha Lokahi Association and Aloha Animal Advocates) Alohahmi Hope Sermel Bill 137 (Comm. 756 ), comment. Leah Maximuk. Bill 136 (Comm. 755 ) in support. Debra Hudson Bill 136 (Comm. 755 ) comment. DEPARTMENTAL The Chair drectedthe Committee to proceed to the next order of business PROGRAM Departmental Budget and Program Reviews. AND BUDGET REVIEWS: (1) Office of the Prosecuting Attorney: (Note: At this time, Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen and Business Administrator Grant Nagata came forward to address the members of the Committee.) Page 22 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 (Note: At this time, Mr. Waltjen provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department:)' Recess: At 10:53 a.m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 11:03 a.m. (2) Department of Human Resources: (Note: At this time, Human Resources Director Sommer Tokihiro and Deputy Director Danny Patel came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Ms. Tokihiro provided-a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing ofthe presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's videoarchives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of therecord. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 12:08 p,'m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 12:20 p.m. (3) Department of Research and Development: (Note: At this time, Research and Development Director Douglass Adams and Deputy Director Frecia Cevallos came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Mr. Adams provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) Page 23 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 2:06 p.m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 2:16 p.m. (4) Department of Information Technology: (Note: At this time, Information Technology Director Robert Ewbank came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Mr. Ewbank provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 3:11 p.m., the Chair called'for arecess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 3:20 p.m. Recess: At 3:21 p.m.,the Chair called for a recess due to technical issues. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 3:23 pm. r (5) Police Department: -(Note: Atthis time, Deputy Police Chief Reed Mahuna and Accountant Hauoli Aiona came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Notre: At this time, Mr. Mahuna provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home 'page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 4:29 p.m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 4:37 p.m. Page 24 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 (6) Animal Control and Protection Agency: (Note: At this time, Animal Control and Protection Agency Director Matthew Runnells and Administrative Assistant Loreal Simmons came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Mr. Runnells provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 5:19 p.m., the Chair called fora recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 5:27 p.m. (7) Office of Corporation Counsel: (Note: At this time, Corporation Counsel Elizabeth Strance came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Ms. Strance provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicoun'ty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 3:11 pm., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 3:20 p.m. (8) Department of LiquorControl: (Note: At this time, Liquor Control Director Gerald Takase came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Mr. Takase provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or Page 25 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 7:03 p.m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The Special Meeting of the Committee on Finance was reconvened in the Council Chambers, Hilo, at 9:00 a.m., Thursday, April 11, 2024, by Mr. Matt Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Chair. ROLL CALL: Present: Mr. Matt Kaneali`i- Kleinfelder, Chair Ms. Cindy Evans, Vice Chair Ms. MichelleM. Galimba, Member Mr, Holeka G6ro,Inaba, Member Ms. Jenn Kagiwdda, Member Ms. Ashley L. Kierkiewicz, Member Ms. Heather L. Kimball, Member(came in later) Ms. Susan L. K. Lee Loy, Member (came in later) Absent"& Excused: Ms. Rebecca Villegas, Member STATEMENTS, The Chair directed the Committee to proceed to the next order of business, FROM THE Statements from the Public on Agenda Items. PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS: The following individuals registered to speak and came forward when called by the Chair: Shalaye Newman: Bill 136 (Comm. 755), comment. Violet Beatte: Bill 136 (Comm. 755), comment. Silver Jacobsen: Bill 136 (Comm. 755), comment. Page 26 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 DEPARTMENTAL The Chair directed the CoOmmittee to proceed to the next order of business PROGRAM Departmental Budget and Program Reviews. AND BUDGET REVIEWS: (1) Civil Defense Agency: (Note: At this time, Civil Defense Administrator Talmadge Magno came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Mr. Magno provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation,is made a part of the record. See Comm.'7 :2.) (Note: Discussion continued for ths'department.) Recess: At 10:17 a.m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 10:23 a.m. (2) Mass Transit Agency: (Note: At this time, Mass Transit Administrator Victor Kandle and Assistant Administrator Zachary Bergum came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time Mr. Kandle provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at ww .hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At,12:14 p.m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 12:33 p.m. Page 27 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 (3) Department of Parks and Recreation: (Note: At this time, Parks and Recreation Director Maurice Messina and Deputy Director Michelle Shiraishi came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Mr. Messina provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 1:55 p.m., the Chair called fora recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 2:03 p.m. (4) Office of Housing and Community Development: (Note: At this time, Office'ofHousing and Community Development Administrator Susan Kunz and bevelopment Specialist Sharon Hirota came forward to address the membersof the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Ms. Kunz provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's'video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part ;of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 3:54 p.m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 4:00 p.m. (5) Office of the County Auditor: (Note: At this time, County Auditor Tyler Benner came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time, Mr. Benner provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see the Page 28 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at www.hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.2.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) Recess: At 4:25 p.m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 4:31 p.m. (6) Office of the County Clerk/Elections Division: (Note: At this time, County Clerk Jon Henricks came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: Discussion continued for this, epartrnent.) Recess: At 5:00 p.m., the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 5;10 pm. (7) Department of Environmental Management:. (Note: At this time, Environmental Management Director Ramzi Mansour and Deputy Director Brenda Iokepa-Moses came forward to address the members of the Committee.) (Note: At this time Mr. Mansour provided a PowerPoint presentation to the members of the Committee. For viewing of the presentation, please see :the DVD copy of the meeting proceedings on file in the Clerk's Office or navigate to the Council's video archives online from the County's home page at ww .hawaiicounty.gov. A copy of the presentation is made a part of the record. See Comm. 755.4.) (Note: Discussion continued for this department.) (Note: Discussion continued until the vote on the bills were made.) Page 29 FC-33 April 9-11,2024 Vote on Bill 136: The motion to recommend passage of Bill 136 on (Approved) first reading was carried by the following roll call vote: Ayes: Committee Members Galimba, Inaba Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Lee Loy and Chair Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder—6. Noes: None. Absent: Committee Members Evans, Kagiwada and Villegas —3. Excused: None. Vote on Bill 137: The motion to recommend passage of Bill 137 on (Approved) first reading was carried by the following roll call vote: Ayes: Committee Members Galimba, Inaba Kierkiewicz, Kimball,LeeLoy and Chair Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder—6. Noes: None. Absent: Committee Members Evans Kagiwada, and Villegas-3. Excused: None. ADJOURN- There being no further business,Chair Kaneali`i-KI einfelder adjourned MENT: the meeting at,6:45 p.m. Approved: Mr. Matt Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Chair (Date) Finance Committee MK/dt Page 30