HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0334.015 2024-2026P/Gourid l
50 ay
Gew 3
From: Donald Rudny
Sent: Friday, July 18, 2025 7:44 AM
To: Inaba, Holeka; Kierkiewicz, Ashley, Kanealii-Kleinfelder, Matt, Villegas, Rebecca;
Kagiwada, Jennifer,-Galimba, Michelle M.; Kimball, Heather, Hustace, Jama Onicshsi,
Dennis; Council Testimony
Subject: Bill 64 c o
CO
Aloha Honorable Council Members,
I am submitting testimony in strong opposition to Bill 64, which proposes a Charter Amenqpent.�o
eliminate the requirement that the Director of the Department of Public Works hold a Professional
Engineer (PE) license.
As a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Hawaii, I understand firsthand the importance of
professional licensure—especially for those entrusted with overseeing public infrastructure projects
that directly impact the safety, health, and welfare of our communities. The PE license is not merely a
credential —it represents a professional standard grounded in technical competence, ethical
responsibility, and public accountability.
A core component of professional licensure is adherence to a Code of Ethics, which includes the
following Fundamental Canons:
1. Hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public.
2. Perform services only in areas of their competence.
3. Issue public statements only in an objective and truthful manner.
4. Act for each employer or client as faithful agents or trustees.
5. Avoid deceptive acts.
6. Conduct themselves honorably, responsibly, ethically, and lawfully to enhance the honor,
reputation, and usefulness of the profession.
These ethical commitments are essential for anyone charged with leading a department responsible
for public works and critical infrastructure. Removing the PE requirement not only diminishes these
standards but also sends the wrong message about the importance of professional qualifications and
public trust.
Comm. N . bO S
Ref. To:
Ref. note 2 8 2025
I understand the Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs has issued an
unfavorable recommendation to the Council. I commend those council members who opposed the
bill, and I respectfully urge those who were in favor to reconsider. Lowering the bar for such a crucial
leadership role will not serve our county well. In fact, it risks weakening the integrity, safety, and
credibility of our public works operations.
Please vote NO on Bill 64. Let's preserve high professional standards and continue to place public
safety at the forefront of our decisions.
Mahalo for your consideration.
Respectfully,
Don Rudny P.E. (License No. PE-12256)
P.O. Box 106
Pepeekeo, HI 96783-0106
312-209-5870
1.i 4