HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0046.059 2024-2026CoFAC 2
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From: Kalaniku M.
Sent: Monday, January 27, 2025 10:51 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: I Oppose Wesley Segawa for DEM director
Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Members of the County Council,
1 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 multipte politicians, including Mayor
Jeremy Harris. His engineering firm, Wesley R. Segawa and Associates was fined $53,500 for these ittegat
contributions. This is not hearsay; it is documented fact.
[https://the honoLutuadvertiser com/article/2004/Dec/28/tn/tn22p htmtl(https•//the honotutuadvertiser
com/article/2004/Dec/28/Ln/ln22p.htmt These actions speakvotumes 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. White 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 31 st 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 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.
1, (born and raised 53 yr old Big Island resident) urge you to reject this nomination and insist on
leadership prioritizing environmental stewardship, community well-being, and the long-term interests of
Hawaii Island residents.
Mahalo for your time and consideration.
Kaeleen K Martinez
Honoka'a, HI 96727