HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0046.033 2024-2026From:
Sent:
To:
Marcie Colbath
Tuesday, January 28, 202S 6:22 AM
Council Testimony
Subject: Opposition of Wesley Segawa
I strongly oppose the nomination of Wesley Segawa as Director of the Department of Environmental Marra'gement
(DEM). This role is critical to addressing the County's environmental challenges, and Mr. Segawa's record,`:prepared ness,
and conflicts of interest raise significant concerns that cannot be ignored, raising serious concerns about his integrity,
ethical judgment, and ability to serve in a position of public trust.
During the January 7th Council meeting, Mr. Segawa failed to demonstrate the vision and expertise necessary to lead the
DEM effectively.
Adding to these concerns is the clear conflict of interest posed by Mr. Segawa's business, which holds a $4 million
contract with the County. This mirrors the troubling precedent set by Zendo Kern.
It is troubling that Segawa's past felony money laundering conviction and violations of campaign finance laws are being
overlooked in this nomination. In 2004, Segawa pleaded no contest to laundering over $60,000 in illegal campaign
donations to multiple politicians, including Mayor Jeremy Harris. His engineering firm, Wesley R. Segawa and Associates
was fined $53,500 for these illegal contributions. This is not hearsay; it is documented fact.
https://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2004/Dec/28/ln/ln22p.htmi
These actions speak volumes about his disregard for transparency and the law. While the Mayor and other supporters
may claim Segawa has integrity, his record says otherwise. Beyond the conviction, Segawa's resignation as chairman of
the state public housing agency under allegations of mismanagement only deepens concerns about his judgment and
leadership capabilities.
It is also worth noting that both Segawa and his wife have donated to current council members Ashley Kierkiewicz and
Dennis "Fresh" Onishi. While political donations are legal, the optics here raise questions about whether this nomination
is based on merit or political favoritism. The people of Hawai'i deserve leaders who are chosen for their qualifications
and clean records, not because of past political connections or favors.
Further, the upcoming deadline of January 31st makes this decision all the more critical. If the Council fails to vote "yes"
or "no" on this nomination, Mr. Segawa will be automatically appointed. This is a decision with far-reaching
consequences for the County's environmental future, and it demands careful, informed action —not acquiescence to a
default.
I urge you to reject this nomination and demand better for the people of Hawaii County. Let us ensure that leadership
positions are filled by individuals whose records reflect transparency, accountability, and the best interests of our
community.
The people of Hawai'i County deserve a Director of Environmental Management with a proven track record of
leadership, integrity, and readiness to address pressing issues. Trust and transparency are paramount, especially as we
face contentious decisions regarding projects like TMT, Hu Honua, Pohakuloa, and ever-expanding part-time
homeowners, timeshares, and more hotels continue to come up.
I urge you to reject this nomination and insist on leadership prioritizing environmental steVdfi4hi�,pommunity well-
being, and the long-term interests of Hawai'i's residents.
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Mahalo for your time and consideration.
Marcia Colbath, 96740