HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0046.055 2024-2026From: Julie Lawrence
Sent: Monday, January 27, 2025 6:24 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Oppose the seating of Wesley Segawa for blatant conflict of interests
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/ln/in22p.html 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 over-
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.
Julie C. Lawrence
Owner
Akamai Financial Enterprise Management
Mortgage Loan Officer
Ceram.
NMLS 358207
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