HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0178.001 2024-2026Michelle M. Galimba
Chairperson
District 6, South Kona to Volcano
Rebecca Viilegas
Vice Chair
District 6, South Kona to Volcano
Phone: (808) 323-4277
Fax: (808) 329-4786
Email. -Michelle. Galimba@hawaiicounty.gov
HAWAI`I COUNTY COUNCIL
County of Hawai `i
West Hawai `i Civic Center, Bldg. A
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy.
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
DATE: March 31, 2025
TO: Dr. Holeka Goro Inaba, Council Chair; and
Members of the Hawaii County Council
FROM: Michelle Galimba, Council Member
9 ' Council District 6
SUBJECT: Transmitting testimony received from the Liquor Commission regarding Comm
178
Transmitted herewith is testimony from the The Liquor Commission dated March 31, 2025,
regarding Communication 178
Thank you for your consideration.
MG/kl
Att.
Serving the Interests of the People of Our Island
Hawai `i County Is an Equal Opportunity Provider And Employer
Comm.
Ref. To:
Ref. Date'
From: kaurisanbhimoto
Sent: Monday, March 31,ZO251213PK4
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Written Testimony onbehalf ufthe Department ufLiquor Control
Tothe Council Chair and Members ofthe Hawaii County Council,
| am not able to attend to0Orrow'S meeting but would like to testify in writing.
Mvname isLauhaaNishirnoto,current Liquor Commissioner for District 5.
1 am currently in the 4th year of my 5-year term. I served as the Vice Chair during my 2nd year and as
Chairman during rny]rdyear.
Over the past 3 yrs I have learned the value and importance of the liquor commission and its mission. We
strive toregulate and promote the manufacturing, sale and consumption of intoxicating beverages in a safe,
healthy and positive way.
There continues tobe a lot to learn and as a volunteer I am accomplishing this through constantly reviewing
related state and county laws, reviewing monthly applications, researching businesses and past implications,
and doing site visitations all toensure that the best decisions are being made toremain compliant yet
beneficial tmall parties involved.
This alone has not solely contributed to my learning and knowledge. I feel that my potential to become
a broader thinker and to widen my knowledge base has come from attending the various conferences
provided annually throughout the United States. What we learn and take away from these various
conferences are invaluable. The networking also provides valuable ideas and trends that Hawaii county can
prepare for.
Though xveare not able toattend all conferences, we are provided the opportunity 10draft and share areport
so that others who may not have attended can learn from those who have.
VVith1hebackpnoundmfbeingoneducatorfor34yeansandanaff|iotemffanni|y-mxvnedsrnaUbusineuses |do
agree with the recommendations that will improve the efficiency and transparency between the Department,
Commission, Board and Council. But I do hope that attending state and national conferences will continue to
be allowed for empowering members to better serve in their capacities.
Thank you for your time.
Liquor Commissioner, District 5