HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0046.039 2024-2026I �
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From: Mary Gehrke
Sent: Tuesday, January 28, 2025 7:30 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Nomination for Director of the 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
(lack of experience in waste water) 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.
His company was awarded a 4.4 million contact in June 2024 for construction management of lava -inundated road
projects and his firm has been involved with construction of design and construction of projects from roads to airports to
bridges. This definitely creates a conflict of interest; and requires a vast knowledge of wastewater. This mirrors the
troubling precedent set by Zendo Kerns.
Additionally, 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. Leaders should chosen for their qualifications and clean records.
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, P6hakuloa, 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.
Mary Gehrke Come. N 2b -it
Captain Cook, HI Ref. To:
Ref. 2025-