HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0046.036 2024-2026From: Bob Douglas
Sent: Monday, January 27, 2025 3:46 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Oppose the nomination of Wesley Segawa as Director of the Department',of
Environmental Management (DEM)
Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Members of the County Council,
I strongly oppose the nomination of Wesley Segawa as Director of the Department of Environmental
Management (DEM). This role is critical to addressing the County's environmental challenges, and
Mr. Segawa's record, preparedness, 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/In/in22P.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
Hawaii 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
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ensure that leadership positions are filled by individuals whose records reflect transparency,
accountability, and the best interests of our community.
The people of Hawaii 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 stewardship,
community well-being, and the long-term interests of Hawai`i's residents.
Mahalo for your time and consideration.
Bob Douglas
danhieux18@ictoud.com
Instagram.com/danhieux
808 333-0402