HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0046.079 2024-2026From: Taube, Lynn
Sent: Tuesday, January 28, 2025 6:23 AM -
To: Council Testimony
Subject: OPPOSE the nomination of Wesley Segawa
Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Members of the County Council,
1 strongly oppose the nomination of Wesley Segawa as Director of the Department of Environme
ntal
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. 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 honoLutuadvertiser com/article/2004/Dec/28/tn/1n22p htmL](https•//the honoluLuadvertiser.
com/article/2004/Dec/28/tn/1n22p.htmt)
These actions speak volumes about his disregard for transparency and the law. White 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 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.
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.
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.
Mahato for your time and consideration. Written by Maki Morinoue Holualoa, 96725
Lynn Taube 96740
(808) 937-0159