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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN COUNCIL 2025-11-19 2024-2026 Hawaii County Council 271h Session West Hawaii Civic Center 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building A Kailua-Kona, Hawaii November 19, 2025 INVOCATION: Deacon Craig Camello of St. Michael the Archangel Parish gave the morning's invocation. CALL TO The regular meeting of the Hawaii County Council was called to order at ORDER: 11:00 a.m., in the Council Chambers, Kailua-Kona, by Mr. Holeka Goro Inaba, Chair. ROLL CALL: Present: Mr. Holeka Goro Inaba, Chair Mr. Dennis "Fresh" Onishi, Vice Chair Ms. Michelle M. Galimba, Member Mr. James E. Hustace, Member Ms. Jenn Kagiwada, Member (via videoconference from Hilo) Mr. Matt Kdneali`i-Kleinfelder, Member (via videoconference from Hilo) Ms. Ashley L. Kierkiewicz, Member(via videoconference from Hilo) Ms. Heather L. Kimball, Member(via videoconference from Hilo) Ms. Rebecca Villegas, Member PLEDGE OF The Chair directed the Council to the next order of business, Pledge of ALLEGIANCE: Allegiance. (At this time, County Clerk Jon Henricks led the Council in the Pledge of Allegiance.) PETITIONS, The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Petitions, MEMORIALS, Memorials, Certificates of Merit, and Expressions of Condolence. CERTIFICATES OF MERIT, AND (There were none.) EXPRESSIONS OF CONDOLENCE: STATEMENTS The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, FROM THE Statements from the Public on Agenda Items. PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS: The following individuals registered to speak and came forward when called by the Chair: Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Stella Black: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. Alton Adolphsen: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. Timothy Rowan: Res. 393-25 (Comm. 613); and (representing Black Sands Beach Res. 394-25 (Comm. 614), in support. Property Owners Association and Malama O Puna) Gilbert Hauanio: Res. 393-25 (Comm. 613), in support. (representing Black Sands Maintenance Committee) Russell Ruderman: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing Island Naturals) Amy Koch: Bill 52, Draft 3 (Comm. 286.9), in opposition. (See Comm. 286.46) Noelle Lindenmann: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (See Comm. 482.251) Maki Morinoue: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (See Comm. 482.258) Oliver Rama: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. Isabella Ibarra: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. Eileen O'Hara: Res. 393-25 (Comm. 613); and (representing Malama O Puna) Res. 394-25 (Comm. 614), in support. Tanya Aynessazian: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (See Comm. 482.288) Christina Holt: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. Christopher Dipnarine: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing 4MyCiTy Inc.) (See Comm. 482.228) Alexis Chapman: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), comment. (representing Hawaii Food Industry Association) Alexis Jackson: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. Page 2 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Nani Garduque: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing West Hawaii Explorations Academy) Maile Lavea-Malloe: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. Kristine Kubat: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing Recycle Hawaii) (See Comm. 482.267) Jennifer Nobrega: Bill 52, Draft 3 (Comm. 286.9), in opposition. (See Comm. 286.51) Erin Chung: Res. 388-25 (Comm. 608), in support. (representing Malama Art) Kymani Kunewa-Hams: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing West Hawaii Explorations Academy) KC Osborne: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing West Hawaii Explorations Academy) Alesha Makuakane: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing Malama `Aina Compostables) Waileia Haili-Barawis: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing Malama `Aina Compostables) Kona Smith: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing Malama `Aina Compostables) Roxie Castaneda: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing Malama `Aina Compostables) Rojelin Capueta: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing Malama `Aina Compostables) Ahlyna Mae Flores: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing Malama `Aina Compostables) Page 3 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Gabriel Katz: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. Stephen Ueda: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in opposition. (representing Suisan Company, (See Comm. 482.281) Ltd.) Kalia Edmonds: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. Delilah Vinson: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing West Hawaii Explorations Academy) Maren Davis: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing West Hawaii Explorations Academy) Justin Canelas: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (representing Recycle Hawaii) Easten Tanimoto: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. John Pelletier: Bill 63, Draft 2 (Comm. 333.7), comment. (representing Kona Community Development Plan Action Committee) Sarah Warr: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. (See Comm. 482.286) Diane Veach: Bill 83, Draft 2 (Comm. 482.10), in support. Alayna Wiley: Bill 52, Draft 3 (Comm. 286.9), comment. (See Comm. 286.53) Josephine Keliipio: Bill 52, Draft 3 (Comm. 286.9), in support. APPROVAL The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Approval OF MINUTES: of Minutes. Chair Inaba announced that the Minutes of August 20, 2025, were approved. REPORTS: The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Reports. Page 4 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 GOEAC-77 NOMINATION OF DONN S. MENDE TO THE LIQUOR CONTROL (Comm. 591): ADJUDICATION BOARD Requires Council Confirmation by: November 27, 2025 (Section 13-4(k), Hawaii County Charter) Vote on GOEAC-77: Mr. Hustace moved to adopt Governmental Operations and (Adopted) External Affairs Committee Report No. 77. Seconded by Mr. Onishi and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kimball, Onishi, and Chair Inaba—6. Noes: None. Absent: Council Members Galimba, Kierkiewicz, and Villegas —3. Excused: None. GOEAC-78 NOMINATION OF THOMAS E. FRATINARDO TO THE WINDWARD (Comm. 592): PLANNING COMMISSION Requires Council Confirmation by: November 27, 2025 (Section 13-4(k), Hawaii County Charter) Vote on GOEAC-78: Mr. Hustace moved to adopt Governmental Operations and (Adopted) External Affairs Committee Report No. 78. Seconded by Mr. Onishi and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kimball, Onishi, and Chair Inaba—7. Noes: None. Absent: Council Members Kierkiewicz and Villegas —2. Excused: None. Change Order As directed by the Chair and with no objection from the Council Members, the of Business: following items were taken out of order: Page 5 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Res. 383-25: APPOINTS THE COUNTY AUDITOR PURSUANT TO SECTION 3-18 OF THE CHARTER OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI`I(2024 EDITION) Appoints Clare McAdam to serve as County Auditor for a six-year term, effective December 1, 2025. Reference: Comm. 600 Intr. by: Council Member Inaba Waived: GOEAC Motion to Approve: Mr. Hustace moved to adopt Res. 383-25. Seconded by Mr. Onishi. CHR. INABA: Council Member Hustace, I did request Council Member Kierkiewicz to give an introduction but she's out of the room. So MR. HUSTACE: Thank you. CHR. INABA: You're welcome. MR. HUSTACE: I think Council Member Kierkiewicz would give a nice introduction here of our recommendation to Council here. We also have Ms. McAdam in the Council chambers here. If she could come forward and be present for the Council Members, to answer any questions that we might have. But as we went through Committee, we went through the process and shared with the Council Members the process, the protocol of going through the job of filling the vacancy for our County Auditor role, a very critical role for the County that gives the Legislative Branch an opportunity to look a little bit deeper into the administrative work and programs, and review that work therein. And from our recommendations, we wanted to present Ms. McAdam to the body for your consideration as part of this resolution. Ms. McAdam, in the interview process, demonstrated a comprehensive review and capability, understanding of our auditing procedures within her own work in the County itself, as well as in her private work. Even from her legal background, too, has a nice lens of understanding what we have to deal with day in and day out. I guess I can leave it there for now, Chair, if that's okay, and Ms. McAdam can say a few words to the Council before we open it up to the body here. CHR. INABA: Thank you, Council Member Hustace, for a good overview. Ms. McAdam, please go ahead. (Note: At this time, Clare McAdam, appointee, came forward to address the members of the Council.) Page 6 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MS. McADAM: Very nice to meet you today. Thank you very much for inviting me here today, and thank you for your recommendation for the position as County Auditor. It's a real privilege to be here as it has been to work for the County the last two-and-a-half years in my role as internal auditor, working with the voluntary buyout program within the Office of Disaster Recovery I think based in the Office of the Mayor. As part of that role, I have been also able to work on special projects for the Mayor in different departments around the County. I'm also particularly doing investigations and other work with the Department of Finance. I love working for the County. My current role is a temporary one, and so I have been thinking for a while about where I would like to work within the County going forward. And I have had the privilege to meet with the previous County Auditor, and I was upset when he left because I really enjoyed his sense of humor and the feeling that we had quite a lot of things in common as we go about our work and his fantastic team. And I had always thought I would love to work within that team. And so again, I was sad when he left, but that was when I took the opportunity to apply for this role now. So if you have any other questions, I'm very happy to answer them. CHR. INABA: Thank you, Ms. McAdam. Opening it up to the body if there's questions for the appointee, or even about the process since there wasn't discussion last time with the closing file of the communication. Starting with Council Member Villegas. MS. VILLEGAS: Hi. Welcome. I find myself really grateful to hear that you've already been working within our County ecosystem, and are familiar with the people as well as the team in the auditor's office. I was also sad to see Mr. Benner go. But I have trust in those who worked on the interview process in order to determine and bring to us a potential candidate, being yourself, to fulfill this role. So I don't have any reservations. I am grateful, first off, to hear that you enjoy working within the County. It can be a challenging arena. But the need for perceptive, attention to detail, and teamwork and collaborative project management within the auditing division is vital for the success of our County and our continued journey to rebuilding trust. Just in general, we have challenges with trust for government lately. So, being able to provide adequate and accurate audits that show the integrity behind decisions being made and allocation of resources is vital for the health and well- being of our County as a whole. So I will be in full support of your nomination today. I yield. CHR. INABA: Vice Chair Onishi. Page 7 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MR. ONISHL Thank you, Chair. Good afternoon. I'm hoping that you get confirmed today. I just wanted to find out what are your plans, if you are confirmed, within that one year. MS. McADAM: Right, yes. So what I'm planning to do, if I get confirmed, is toI know we have an open letter from the previous County Auditor with his priorities in there for this next year, I think taking to June of 2026 to look at those. I have trust in him that he was able to prioritize the issues that need to be addressed. And then, obviously, to speak with the team as to where they are. I know we have a hotline. There are other priorities that come from the Council Members too, and see what their schedule is going forward for the next year. And then, obviously, to meet with Council Members and to assess where you think that we should be looking at within the next year. MR. ONISHL I think you're not fully staffed, too, right? MS. McADAM: Right. MR. ONISHL And so that's going to take some process for you to work on. Usually, in the past, Council Members would do a reso (resolution) for the auditor's office to do the auditing of a certain either department or section or so forth, right. You must have a whole bunch of that at the office right now,yeah. MS. McADAM: Yeah. Possibly. When I get there, I'll take a look. Yeah. MR. ONISHL So whatever the Council can support you within, like your budget or having more resources, please let us know when you're confirmed. Okay? MS. McADAM: Thank you so much. Yes. MR. ONISHL You're welcome. I yield. CHR. INABA: Thank you, Vice Chair Onishi. Council Member Kaneali`i- Kleinfelder. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you, Chair. Thank you for being here today. I wasn't present at the first hearing. And looking back at the last time we did this, it was new to us then to bring in the County Auditor in the form that we did. Thank you to Ms. Kierkiewicz for making that happen. The reason I'm saying that, our last County Auditor, Mr. Benner, I actually opposed his nomination because I liked the other guy. But Mr. Benner proved himself to be invaluable. The point is you're stepping into some big shoes, in my opinion, should you be confirmed today. And so I am grateful to have you here and just expressing to you that Mr. Benner did a really bang-up job as a County Auditor. Page 8 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 I'm hoping that you fill the shoes in the same manner, and I look forward to working with you in the future. Thank you for being here. Sorry, Chair, if I could? CHR. INABA: Yes, go ahead. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Ms. Kimball reminded me that part of that sentence that I needed to say, too, was I was completely wrong about Mr. Benner. (Inaudible.) CHR. INABA: Thank you, Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder. With that, Council Member Kierkiewicz. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you, Chair. I just want to extend my gratitude to you and Council Member Hustace for the privilege of serving alongside you in this really important work. As Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder said, we came up with this process several years ago, and it was great to be able to put this process to work once again because it provided that very clear, structured, but also rigorous framework for vetting candidates for this position, which I think is one of the most critical because it provides that critical check and balance within our County system. We had some really qualified, wonderful folks that did apply and, as you know, Clare rose to the top of the bunch. I was very struck by the incredible work that she has been doing within our County as an internal auditor, specifically for the Disaster Recovery Division, and everything that she has done to ensure that the voluntary buyout housing program, which is over $100 million in HUD (United States Department of Housing and Urban Development) monies, is used appropriately. And there were some findings that she was able to ensure were corrected. I don't know if she shared this, but I loved knowing that she was presenting about this work at a national level. So she's got great ins with HUD and is somebody that is certainly well-respected in the auditing world. I just want to say thank you, Clare, for putting yourself out there. I'm so thrilled that you are going to be assuming this position. You've got a strong command of auditing principles and practices. You're thoughtful. You're inquisitive. I just appreciate your analytical approach. I love your creativity. You're solutions oriented and you're just a warm and genuine person. And I think, most important, you're ready to embrace the staff. We have really excellent staff at the County auditor's office. So thank you for your commitment in wanting to invest in the team, in building their capacity so that we can ensure really high quality work product continues to come from the auditor's office. So thank you again. Congratulations and we really look forward to working alongside you. I yield, Chair. Page 9 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MS. McADAM: Thank you. CHR. INABA: Thank you. Anyone else in Hilo? All right, seeing none, Council Member Galimba here in Kona. MS. GALIMBA: Thank you. Thank you to the committee, and also thank you, Ms. McAdam. I am definitely in support of your nomination. I know that you were not unfamiliar with difficult conversations in the hot seat, having beenI see that you're on the Elections Commission. So thank you for that. And,yes, I look forward to your work in this position. MS. McADAM: Thanks. CHR. INABA: Alrighty, thank you. Again, mahalo to Council Members Kierkiewicz and Hustace for their work in the ad hoc committee. In the previous search, there were definitely more applicants, but the applicants who did apply this time were all highly qualified. One thing that I want to state here on the record right now is to make sure one of the things we discussed was the creation of a deputy position here. We face difficulties in the vacancy period both last time and this time with continued operation of this office, and this is something that we discussed as an ad hoc committee with you, Ms. McAdam, and something that we want to see, especially as we head into the budgeting season once you get a good handle of what your staffing looks like. But that allows for continuity should something happen and you not be able to complete your full six-year term. So please make sure that is one of the top priorities as we move forward. With that, we'll take a roll call vote on this appointment. Vote on Res. 383-25: The motion to adopt Res. 383-25 was carried by the (Adopted) following roll call vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. CHR. INABA: Congratulations. The appointment starts December I". And just so everyone knows, Council Member Kierkiewicz has volunteered to meet with the staff and introduce Ms. McAdam on that day. So thank you, Council Member Kierkiewicz. Appreciate your effort here. Recess: At 12:51 p.m., the Chair called for a recess. Page 10 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 1:05 p.m. STATEMENTS The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, FROM THE Statements from the Public. PUBLIC ON BILL 83 The following individual registered to speak and came forward when called by (DRAFT 2) the Chair: (COMM. 482.10): Kencho Gurung: In support. (representing Sierra Club —Hawai`i Island Group) Bill 83: AMENDS CHAPTER 20 OF THE HAWAI`I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2016 (Draft 2) EDITION, AS AMENDED), RELATING TO PLASTIC AND POLYSTYRENE WASTE Seeks to reduce disposable plastic or polystyrene foodware and serviceware in alignment with the County of Hawai`i's Zero Waste Plan and the State of Hawai`i's Aloha+ Challenge Solid Waste Reduction Goals. Reference: Comm. 482.10 Intr. by: Council Members Galimba and Villegas Approve: PCENRM-3 Postponed: November 5, 2025 (Note: There is a motion by Council Member Villegas, seconded by Council Member Galimba, to pass Bill 83, Draft 2, on first reading.) ; and Comm. 482.13: From Environmental Management Commission Chair Erica Perez, dated November 5, 2025, transmitting comments and recommendations regarding Bill 83, Draft 2. (Note: Comm. 482.14, from Council Member James E. Hustace dated November 14, 2025, transmitting proposed amendments to Bill 83, Draft 2, was circulated.) MS. VILLEGAS: Aloha and welcome, everyone. I just want to start off by thanking our young people for showing up today in full force and in full support of a healthy and safe future for all of you here on this island. The testimony today was moving, also debunks many of the claims that have been made, unfortunately, by people from prior generations that I just have worries, that if we continue to make decisions based on those prior value systems, we jeopardize your long-term health and safety. I appreciated your talking about even your parents' experiences at places that you now visit. I share that difference in what we see on our shorelines and different ecosystems with the exposure to plastic. I do want to just ask a quick question of Page 11 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 some resident experts we have here, whether or not John Elkjer or Sarah Warr would like to I'd like to explain a little bit about—I'd like to debunk another narrative as it relates to BPI(International Biodegradable Products Institute, Inc.) certification symbols on products that don't have their own individual symbol. Let's take a straw. Right? It would be too small of an object to have that symbol on. However, could one of you help explain why the need for the symbol is still imperative as part of this legislation, and how the process works for those products to already be registered as certified? So kind of eliminates the need for any kind of amendment here. All right, thank you, Mr. Elkjer. Just state your name for the record. (Note: At this time, John Elkjer, Chief Executive Officer of Sustainable Island Products, came forward to address the members of the Council.) MR. ELKJER: So there's two requests for certifications in this bill. One is CMA (Compost Manufacturing Alliance, LLC) and one is BPIbiodegradable products institute and compostable management association. So both of them are working in the process of manufacturing compost, if you will. So let me go through how we recycle now, and this might help you understand it. You see the numbers that are on the plastics, one through seven? Those are Resin Codes, right. It doesn't mean that they can be recycled. They are a Resin Code. So you don't mix the number ones with the number twos because they're different polymers. So you keep the waste stream separate. That's the entire reason for the certifications of compostability because there's difficulty in truth and labeling, quite frankly. There's a lot of imposters that will slide under the composting. They'll call it biodegradable, which is they'll call it a lot of things. So the BPI logo is the standard for most products that are BPI logoed. But CMA covers things that can't get a logo on it. So when I say that, as a company, what we get is a letter that says, "This is a compostable manufacturer." So when you go down to the enforcement side, we provide that letter to counties. We already provided that to Oahu and Maui, and we have them on file right now. I could send you all of them for everything that we sell within an hour. So things like pizza boxes, things like deli wraps, deli papers, straws, some of those things you could try to emboss a seal on it, but you're really not going to see it after it's used if it's got food scraps on it. And that's the beauty with composting, is you can compost the product and the food scraps at the same time. I think I answered the question in the long way, but— MS. VILLEGAS: I think you did. Thank you so much. I just wanted, for the sake of the public and also for my colleagues, to have a broader understanding of how that certification works, and registration, and also why it's necessary in the legislation in order to ensure authentic, viable, enforceable methods surrounding this legislation. Page 12 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 I feel like we have gone over a lot of things and talked about a lot of different angles on this, and that the community at large is in support of this legislation. So, at this time, I would just pass it back to my colleagues. I also heard loud and clear that people are asking for this to be passed without any further amendments. So just want to pass this off to my colleagues for any further conversation. I yield. CHR. INABA: Mahalo, Council Member Villegas. Opening it up; any discussion? Council Member Kagiwada. MS. KAGIWADA: Thank you so much. Thank you and I just wanted to, once again, extend thank yous and mahalos to all the wonderful testifiers here today on this bill. I agree with the testifiers that we should go ahead and pass this without further amendments. I think, as it stands, it's the cleanest. It avoids major loopholes. I think one of the testifiers said it very well: We don't really need additional time for people to do what's right. A year is plenty of time for people to use up their stock of what they already have stored of their current takeout ware and start transitioning over. And the sooner we can do it, the better for all of us; our landfill, our health, and also for getting those prices down with the compostables, and for getting people to adopt the reuse program in Hilo. So I hope we can go ahead and pass this as is, and I'm in full support. Thank you. I yield. CHR. INABA: Vice Chair Onishi. MR. ONISHL Thank you, Chair. Is DEM (Department of Environmental Management) Deputy Director Kawaguchi in the Hilo chambers? MS. KAGIWADA: Yes, he is. MR. ONISHL Can they come forward, please? MS. KAGIWADA: They're coming up, or he's coming up. The whole team is coming up. MR. ONISHL If you guys could state your names. (Note: At this time, Deputy Director Craig Kawaguchi and Recycling Specialist Alexander White, Environmental Management Department, came forward to address the members of the Council.) MR. KAWAGUCHI: Deputy Director Craig Kawaguchi, Environmental Management. MR. WHITE: Alex White, DEM. Page 13 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MR. ONISHI: And Mr. Rivera? (Note: At this time, Solid Waste Operations Division Chief Michael Rivera came forward to address the members of the Council.) MR. RIVERA: I'm here. Mike Rivera, Solid Waste Chief. MR. ONISHL Thank you. So, first, my question is going to be, Deputy Director, do you have any comments on the bill? Because you folks haven't really said any comments until now when you folks showed up to this meeting. MR. KAWAGUCHI: Yeah, I think there's a misunderstanding that we were given 45 days to make comments. So we were going to send in a letter or, I guess, our recommendations. So we didn't think that we needed to be at Council, and we apologize for the misunderstanding. MR. ONISHL And so the "recommendations," meaning from the commission? MR. KAWAGUCHI: I think what we're looking at—we're talking to different groups, organizations the same thing that we did in, I think it was 2013, for the plastic bag ban, 2019 for the Styrofoam ban. We reached out to different businesses, spoke to some residents. We did our own research. MR. ONISHL And so you haven't submitted that yet? MR. KAWAGUCHI: No. We're still gathering information. MR. ONISHI: So how long more do you folks need? MR. KAWAGUCHI: I think we should be MR. RIVERA: Yeah, next week. MR. KAWAGUCHI: Next week. MR. ONISHL Okay. So, by our next meeting, we should be able to see those recommendations. MR. KAWAGUCHI: Yeah. MR. ONISHL Okay, sounds good. Next question is, I guess maybe, Alex,you can help me with this. There was testimony by a couple of people, or at least one, about having those composting outside. Can you clarify, would the County be able to do that? Page 14 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MR. WHITE: That's kind of a big question. That's one of the things that we're looking at. We need to explore that. As you know, the history of the compost is pretty long and complicated, so that's definitely one of the things that we're considering, but we need to learn a lot more. MR. ONISHL And then, would the County be required by Federal or State governments in certain requirements that we would have to follow? MR. WHITE: Regarding the composting, there is a whole slew of permit requirements that the Department of Health issues. So yeah, we would be subject—there's kind of a lot behind the scenes that would need to line up to do some of these things. MR. ONISHL So it's nothing simple where we could do it starting from tomorrow, correct? MR. WHITE: That's my understanding. Yeah, correct. MR. ONISHI: Mr. Rivera? MR. RIVERA: No, we would have to go fresh through a process, and it would take some time. We wouldn't be able to just do that tomorrow. MR. ONISHL Okay, thank you. Second thing is, okay, so I guess Recycling Hawaii, they have these machines that do composting. Would the County be able to purchase those and utilize those machines? MR. WHITE: One of the things to consider is just to consider the solid waste stream, the big picture. So anything that we do really has to fit in with the system as a whole. I don't think I can really answer that question as far as whether or not we can buy these things for the schools and whatnot. But we have visited the facility and are definitely impressed and interested in the technology. MR. ONISHL Okay. I had one more thing. A lot of the discussions that were happening within the last meetings were about how are our landfills and protecting the landfills, having waste going into the landfill. So, without any composting facility or process that we can have when this bill passes, can either one of you folks answer where would all that composting waste go to? MR. WHITE: It would go to the landfill. Yeah, it would go to the landfill. MR. ONISHL And then, would it be able to be composted in the landfill as it gets (inaudible)? MR. WHITE: There's no composting happening at the landfill. Some of it would biodegrade. Obviously, the fiber containers and things like that can be composted Page 15 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 at home. The bioplastics can't really be recycled in a home composting container or composting machine. But yeah. So containers going to the landfill would the fiber containers will break down, and the bioplastics generally do not break down in the landfill. MR. ONISHL And so, by saying that, would you have any, I guess percentagewise, of how much reduction we would have in the landfill? MR. WHITE: No, but there is something that we are working on. We are going to be doing a waste characterization study in the spring of 2026. That's the first one we've done in a long time, and that should give us a lot of data to inform some of these things, to quantify some of these things. MR. ONISHL Okay, thank you. Mr. Chair, I yield. CHR. INABA: Council Member Hustace. MR. HUSTACE: Thank you, Chair. Just a question for DEM, actually. Thank you for being here. I appreciate the time, Deputy Director. In the existing language in Code, as it speaks to polystyrene and those things we use, plastic bags, it talks about exemptions. Could you elaborate a little bit on how the department has utilized or attributed exemptions to businesses in the past, and how that process has unfolded? MR. KAWAGUCHI: So I know, in the past, we had churches that reached out to us, that they had extra inventory that they wanted to use to serve their, I guess, food in, in the Styrofoam containers. So we granted that,just for certain events though. It's not like an extended exemption. MR. HUSTACE: Right. For 180 days, correct. It would be a short period of time where they'd have to come back into compliance then. MR. KAWAGUCHI: Yeah. MR. HUSTACE: And have we seen that part of the Code being used before? I mean, you've said church groups. How often? MR. KAWAGUCHI: Not recently. It's been a while. MR. HUSTACE: Okay. Good to know. Thank you. And then the enforcement side of it too. With the existing prohibition on polystyrene, has there been any enforcement action taken by DEM against businesses since that prohibition went into effect? And what does that enforcement look like within the department? Page 16 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MR. KAWAGUCHI: There hasn't been any enforcement actions taken against any business or organization. That would be if someone would call in to let us know that a restaurant is serving their food in Styrofoam containers, then we'd go and check it out. And then a letter would come from the Director to the business. MR. HUSTACE: So you have taken some action then in the past. MR. KAWAGUCHI: Yeah. To, I guess—warning. MR. HUSTACE: I'm sorry? MR. KAWAGUCHI: A letter would go to the businesses. Then you will know of the violation. MR. HUSTACE: Could you speak to what enforcement might look like going forward for something to this next, sort of, step up. MR. KAWAGUCHI: Yeah, that part we're still discussing. MR. WHITE: Yeah, we're doing our homework there to be able to provide you guys with numbers and really quantify what is required to properly enforce, in addition to education and outreach and other very important components to this. MR. HUSTACE: And that includes the fines that are listed currently in the language, correct? Kind of analyzing that against the potential impacts, whatnot? MR. WHITE: Yeah, we'll be addressing the fines too. MR. HUSTACE: Because the Environmental Management Commission asked to, I think, double those fines or some scale around that in their recommendation to Council. So please take that into consideration as the EMC (Environmental Management Commission) wanted to go a little bit further in the fines scheduling and what that kind of looks like. All right. And then, kind of touching on what Council Member Onishi was discussing a moment ago about industrial composting. Is this a discussion that you've had internally and/or with the Mayor's office and Finance, as to what those costs may look like as we start incorporating industrial composting in our waste sites and facilities around the island? Is that something that we're beginning to have budgetary conversations about? MR. KAWAGUCHI: Not at this time. Page 17 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MR. HUSTACE: Does that mean maybe in five years? What is the timeline that we're hopeful in having a conversation about industrial composting even at smaller scales at regional facilities? How can we start building that into our budget so that we have these considerations going forward? MR. KAWAGUCHI: As far as the smaller scale,yeah we're in discussions with that. But as far as industrial size, I think it comes down to budgeting and more discussion. MR. HUSTACE: I don't think the industrial one is kind of within reach for us. I mean, considering all that's on your shoulders right now with the wastewater efforts and the dollars that we're investing in our wastewater treatment facilities and upgrade there, it really unfortunately, it puts industrial compositing large scale out of reach in my mind. So smaller scale facilities peppered around the island may be the approach we need to take in this regard, then, if we're looking for some sort of fallback or a different path. Any thoughts on that? MR. KAWAGUCHI: I mean, it could be that or—gosh, I can't remember how far back. We did have a home composting program, which was popular. MR. HUSTACE: But it's not a step you would take for any of our existing transfer stations? If we're talking specifically about something that's maybe more affordable at a smaller scale, these self-contained units, at transfer stations, is that something that we can attain and reach for? MR. KAWAGUCHI: I think we need to look at each site to see if that's possible. MR. HUSTACE: Okay. I am concerned about the investments we're making in wastewater, and we also need to be making those investments into solid waste. We've had those conversations about our singular landfill, of course, but how can we divert from that, our major landfill, is the question. And if we have these self- contained small units within regional areas around the island, that may be the approach we need to take instead of one singular large facility that is on one side or the other of the island. So it's something that we still need to have this conversation about. And I think we need to program it for our budget in the years to come, and kind of start mapping it in. I know you're constrained by wastewater impacts and the monies going there. So it's really trying to find an alternative process through it. Yeah. Anything else, Deputy? MR. KAWAGUCHI: No, not at this time,yeah. MR. HUSTACE: Council Member Villegas, I am waiting for one amendment particularly in regards to the labeling piece, because I'm still reading it a little bit differently in terms of the visibly labeled and to those sides of it because the Page 18 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 straws can't be, as was shared, those cannot have a logo on those sort of things. So still reading it a little bit differently in that part of the language, whereas maybe the box has that, but those individual smaller items may not have that visible label on them, or that BPI certification mark. So still puzzling through that one a little bit. Don't get me wrong; I fully support the intent of this and the direction we're trying to move forward. And I appreciate the conversation we had at Committee and the last conversation about our small businesses. And I want to hear what are the impacts that they're feeling, especially after COVID (coronavirus disease) and the pandemic and impacts that they've had. Motion to Amend: Mr. Hustace moved to amend Bill 83, Draft 2, with the contents of Comm. 482.14. Seconded by Mr. Onishi. CHR. INABA: Council Member Hustace. MR. HUSTACE: Thank you, Chair. Just kind of spinning off of my conversation there and the last discussion we had at Council. This is not the longer period that I think I've heard that negative feedback on, but it is still giving small businesses, ten or fewer employees, one additional year after. I know the bill already makes it one year, but one additional year to help make those adjustments, whether in staffing, whether in cost, whether in supplies, whether in resourcing materials. It gives them that one other year to bring them full circle back on the page with us. And hopefully, in these conversations we have with the Administration, that we can start implementing the necessary pieces that make this whole process and move work all together. So thank you for your consideration. CHR. INABA: On the amendment, Council Member Villegas. MS. VILLEGAS: I appreciate Council Member Hustace's trying to find some, for lack of a better term, middle ground on this. However, I have in front of me documents that go back to 2007 and resolutions passed by Council stating that "BE IT RESOLVED that through its legislation,policies, and actions, that Hawaii County shall embrace and adopt a Zero Waste philosophy of solid waste management, and that the Council and the Department of Environmental Management will take necessary steps to incorporate the Zero Waste philosophy into the Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan." Next, I have a resolution from 2008 allocating $50,000 to develop a plan to implement recycling and diversion programs, to reach the goal of 85 percent diversion of solid waste from the waste stream in three years. Next, I have a resolution from 2019 as it relates to the climate emergency, and how imperative it is that we transition to an environmentally preferrable purchasing policy to guide efficient, consistent, and just action within our County. Page 19 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Be it further resolved that we would the County of Hawaii well, blah, blah, blah. We want to restore near preindustrial global average temperatures and greenhouse gas concentrations that immediately halts the development of all new fossil fuel infrastructure and phase out all fossil fuels and the technologies which rely upon them. There's pages and pages of prior legislation from prior Administrations and prior Council Members who have stated this as being a priority. And here we sit today, and I just have concerns about it continuing to become a disclaimer that we're not ready yet, that the actions haven't been taken. And that's why oftentimes legislation has to be brought forward that create the impetus and the legal requirement for the infrastructure to be put in place. I have endless amounts of information on that, so it doesn't sit well with me, unfortunately. And I appreciate your attempt at amending with this further one-year time extension. But as also has been stated by a number of testifiers, I don't believe we have a means to determine what businesses have more than ten employees. And at a time when some of the other resistance on this legislation is claiming and has concerns about enforcement and whatnot, to add the piece of a difference between a business with ten employees versus a business with a hundred and something employees seems counterintuitive to me. So, respectfully, I won't be supporting this amendment today, and ask that my other colleagues heed the request of constituents and community who've asked for this legislation to be passed in its current form. I yield. CHR. INABA: Thank you, Council Member Villegas. Vice Chair Onishi, and then I'll check over in Hilo on the amendment 482.14. MR. ONISHL I can see how this amendment is going to be helping the smaller businesses, like the moms and pops. We're not talking about those big businesses like with employees of 50-100 or so. This is smaller restaurants that—in Hilo, there's a lot of them. And so, I can see this helping them out. DEM, do you folks have any comments on this amendment? And as it was mentioned with all these different resolutions that were given, to what stage are you folks, I guess, to Zero Waste? Because, it seems like it's a time matter, but I don't think it is a time matter. So can you help me with that? MR. WHITE: Sorry, Fresh, do you mind clarifying your question,just around the Zero Waste side? MR. ONISHL Well, as you listened to what Ms. Villegas had mentioned about all these resolutions, like from 2007, about going to Zero Waste and so forth, Page 20 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 right, and so I just wanted to kind of know if the department—well, first of all, did you folks see the amendment to extend it for one more year for employees ten or less? MR. WHITE: No. That was new to us. MR. ONISHL Okay, so you wouldn't know how to enforce, or how to gather information of restaurants or companies that would have ten or less employees to get the extension. MR. WHITE: Yeah, that's correct. There's a number of, I guess—if you had questions about how DEM would go about enforcement, that would be one of them. MR. ONISHL Okay. So I guess, Mr. Hustace, that's something that you've got to look at. Okay, now the second thing is, with the Zero Waste, right, at what percentage is DEM at? MR. WHITE: Our current landfill diversion rate was at 19 percent for last year. That was waste directly managed by the County. That doesn't include anything happening in the private sector, that 19 percent. MR. ONISHL Okay, thank you. And then, do you folks have a copy of that amendment in front of you? MR. WHITE: No, we don't. MR. ONISHL Mr. Clerk, would someone be able to get them one? MS. KAGIWADA: We're bringing it to them right now. MR. ONISHL Okay, thank you. Well, I guess when you folks are able to make a comment, and then I can yield after that. MR. WHITE: Yeah, okay, we can address this in our letter. MR. ONISHI: On your recommendations? MR. WHITE: No method to determine whether a business has ten or fewer employees comes to mind right now. At this moment, we don't have a mechanism to do that. MR. ONISHL Okay, thank you. I yield. Page 21 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 CHR. INABA: Thank you. To clarify,please make sure you're providing feedback in accordance with the Code regarding the draft bill, and not amendments that are being proposed. Thank you. Going over to Hilo on the amendment. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Chair, no comments here. CHR. INABA: Thank you. Council Member Hustace. MR. HUSTACE: Thank you, Chair. It was just in response to Council Member Onishi on the enforcement piece. Enforcement is an issue for the whole, I think. It's not—there are challenges that this amendment brings, yes, to the enforcement piece, but looking at the entirety of it, I think enforcement is a challenge. So it's kind of lumped all together. Thank you. CHR. INABA: Council Member Villegas, briefly. MS. VILLEGAS: Yup,just quickly. Enforcement in general in our County is directly tied to people reporting. Whether or not it's short-term vacation rentals or Styrofoam or sunscreen or zoning violations, our County really relies on community keeping an eye on community, and ensuring that we are all abiding by the laws. So, as opposed to going out and looking, we rely on one another in order to provide insights on who is and isn't abiding by the laws at hand. With that, I yield. CHR. INABA: Thank you. On the amendment, a roll call vote please. MS. GALIMBA: Oh, Chair,just— CHR. INABA: Sorry, Council Member Galimba. MS. GALIMBA: Just briefly. I just want to note that there is the variance mechanism already in existence. It would give us six months for hardship. So that already has a mechanism to apply. So that would give some relief beyond the year already. Thanks. CHR. INABA: Thank you for that clarification. A roll call vote,please, on the amendment. Page 22 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Vote on Motion to The motion to amend Bill 83, Draft 2, with the contents of Amend: Comm. 482.14 failed by the following roll call vote: Failed Ayes: Council Members Hustace and Onishi —2. Noes: Council Members Galimba, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—7. Absent: None. Excused: None. CHR. INABA: Any further discussion on Bill 83? MS. VILLEGAS: Yes. CHR. INABA: Briefly. Let's go with Council Member Villegas and then Vice Chair Onishi. MS. VILLEGAS: Sure,just very briefly. I'm asking for a little bit of clarification. And perhaps, Mr. Clerk,you could answer this for me. I received a letter from the Department of Environmental Management acknowledging that they had received a copy of Bill 83, Draft 2, on October 14th, with a 45-day deadline for them to provide any comments. Thank you to the Environmental Management Commission for providing your comments so quickly. Is that 45 days, 45 business days? Or is that 45 calendar days? MR. HENRICKS: Calendar. MS. VILLEGAS: Calendar days. So, according to my staff—thank you, guys, for doing the math for me that would make the deadline of 45 days to comment be next Friday, 11/28. MR. HENRICKS: I don't have a calendar in front of you, but I asked staff to let me know when the Department of Environmental Management received notice, and they're reporting October 15''. It may be that the commission received it a day earlier or recognized receipt as a day earlier. So I just ask for some verification of that just so we can be certain of the day. MS. VILLEGAS: I have the actual letter from the Department of Environmental Management saying that the Department of Environmental Management acknowledges receipt of your correspondence datedoh, the correspondence was dated October 14''. Gotcha. CHR. INABA: Thank you. I'll clarify here. The official record is that it was transmitted and received on the 15''. So the deadline would be the 29 h. MS. VILLEGAS: Twenty-ninth. Page 23 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 CHR. INABA: Yeah. MR. HENRICKS: Sounds good. MS. VILLEGAS: Okay. So just wanted to confirm that. Thank you. Our next hearing is on December 3rd. Just trying to get these dates clarified, not only for myself but for the public. And if I understand correctly, we can pass this through today with a positive recommendation, and get it to second and final reading. And within that timeframe, DEM will have had time to make their comments. So then we're in full compliance. Correct? CHR. INABA: That is correct. MS. VILLEGAS: Okay. Thank you. I just ask for my colleagues' continued support as we move this forward. I yield. CHR. INABA: Vice Chair Onishi. MR. ONISHL Thank you, Chair. Just to clarify for the public, I do support the intent. But for us to move forward with the composting, we need to have the other component, which is a processing plant. So I cannot see because, the argument is about filling the landfills, but that's another thing. I guess the gentleman that was up here earlier, the expert, John Elkjer, can you come up? You can introduce yourself. I guess you represent someone or a company? MR. ELKJER: I'm the CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of Sustainable Island Products. MR. ONISHI: Okay. And so, you produce composting products? MR. ELKJER: This company began in 2009, a mission-based company, to try to reduce single-use plastics and waste here in the Hawaiian Islands, starting in Hilo. We have a warehouse here in Kona as well. We've grown over the period of time, so I MR. ONISHL No, so you basically you don't produce but you distribute? MR. ELKJER: Yeah, we're distribution. MR. ONISHL Distribution, okay. And then, were you involved in any way with this bill being written? MR. ELKJER: Yes. Page 24 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MR. ONISHI: Oh, you were? MR. ELKJER: Oh,yeah. MR. ONISHL Oh, okay. I just was wondering. Okay. Thank you, I yield. MR. ELKJER: Myself and another person I work with, we wrote the one bill on Oahu, and most of that transferred on to Maui. Had suggestions for this one. This one, for Rebecca, for, I don't know, four years ago I think to start. It's been a long road. MR. ONISHL Okay. And then—well, another question is, since you're adding on, do you know any other distributors that distribute these certain products? MR. ELKJER: All of them. MR. ONISHL No, do you know any other companies? MR. ELKJER: Suisan. Triple F. MR. ONISHL But with those labels, that certain certifications? MR. ELKJER: Oh,yeah. MR. ONISHL They all do? MR. ELKJER: Oh,yeah. MR. ONISHL Oh, okay. MR. ELKJER: Many of the larger corporations—I mean, Costco sells it. Many of the larger corporations and the small companies are the small guys buy their stuff from Costco. MR. ONISHL Okay. So, with the labels that are being required if the bill passes. MR. ELKJER: Yeah. MR. ONISHL Okay. So then, why would it be needed if they already have these products labeled and people are purchasing them? MR. ELKJER: Great question. In the waste stream, and environmental management can help with this as well, in the waste stream, you need to know where it goes. You need to direct that waste. I mean, you don't put mulch with plastics, right. So that's—if it's not labeled on the piece or have knowledge of Page 25 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 what the sourcing is of that, it contaminates the waste stream. So, if you put No. 1 plastics with No. 2 plastics and try to recycle them, it contaminates that batch. MR. ONISHL I understand, okay. But then it's written in the bill, basically, that you needed to have these certain stamps, right, for these products. MR. ELKJER: I'm sorry? MR. ONISHL You need to have these certain stamps MR. ELKJER: Stamp or the CMA certification. MR. ONISHL Right. Correct. But you're saying, already, it's already on products at Costco that people can purchase. MR. ELKJER: It's standard in the industry. MR. ONISHL Yeah, standard right. So then for DEM, once we start doing the composting, like you're saying it could, by a stamp of the product, it could be segregated. Correct? MR. ELKJER: Yes. Yeah. MR. ONISHL Okay, thank you. I yield. CHR. INABA: All right. Council Member Galimba and then we're going to take the vote. MS. GALIMBA: Perfect. Thank you. I was going to call for the vote myself, after I made a very brief comment. I just wanted to read something, which pretty much summarizes what all of these wonderful young folks and older folks have said already. And it's a summary of an article from The Lancet, which is the most well-respected journal in medicine in the world, and this is an abstract. "Plastics are a grave, growing, and under-recognized danger to human and planetary health. Plastics cause disease and death from infancy to old age and are responsible for health-related economic losses exceeding US$1.5 trillion annually. These impacts fall disproportionately upon low-income and at-risk populations. The principal driver of the crisis is accelerating growth in plastic production from 2 megatons in 1950 to 475 megatons in 2022 that is projected to be 1,200 megatons by 2060. Plastic pollution has also worsened, and 8,000 megatons of plastic waste now pollute the planet. Less than 10 percent of plastic is recycled. Yet, continued worsening of plastics' harm is not inevitable. Similar to air Page 26 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 pollution and lead, plastics' harms can be mitigated cost-effectively by evidence- based, transparently tracked, effectively implemented, and adequately financed laws and policies." I can't say that we're doing all of that here, but we're making a small start on that process. So with that, I would love it if we could vote "yes." CHR. INABA: Same. All right, a roll call vote, Mr. Clerk. Vote on Bill 83: The motion to pass Bill 83, Draft 2, on first reading and Draft 2 adopt Policy Committee on Environmental and Natural (Approved) Resource Management Committee Report No. 3 was carried by the following roll call vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—8. Noes: Council Member Onishi — 1. Absent: None. Excused: None. Return to Order The Chair directed the Council to return to the order of business. of Business: ORDER OF The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Order of RESOLUTIONS: Resolutions. (Note: Items in this category were taken up previously, out of order.) Res. 369-25: ACCEPTS THE DEDICATION OF ROAD LOT 5-A, IDENTIFIED AS TAX MAP KEY NO. 2-2-034:086, SITUATED AT WAIAKEA, DISTRICT OF SOUTH HILO, ISLAND, COUNTY, AND STATE OF HAWAI`I, FROM GHC FAMILY LIMITED PARTNERSHIP The landowner seeks to dedicate the sidewalk and all improvements for public purposes. Reference: Comm. 576 Intr. by: Council Member Kimball (B/R) Approve: LAAC-24 Page 27 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Vote on Res. 369-25: Mr. Hustace moved to adopt Res. 369-25 and Legislative (Adopted) Approvals and Acquisitions Committee Report No. 24. Seconded by Ms. Galimba and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, and Chair Inaba—8. Noes: None. Absent: Council Member Villegas — 1. Excused: None. Res. 370-25: AUTHORIZES AND DIRECTS THE DISPOSITION AND CONVEYANCE OF A ROAD REMNANT, BEING A PORTION OF TAX MAP KEY NO. 2-2-037:999, SITUATED AT WAIAKEA, DISTRICT OF SOUTH HILO, ISLAND, COUNTY, AND STATE OF HAWAI`I Seeks to dispose of the Remnant and convey it to the State, thereby alleviating the County of any liability or maintenance responsibility. Reference: Comm. 577 Intr. by: Council Member Kimball (B/R) Approve: LAAC-25 Vote on Res. 370-25: Mr. Hustace moved to adopt Res. 370-25 and Legislative (Adopted) Approvals and Acquisitions Committee Report No. 25. Seconded by Mr. Onishi and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, and Chair Inaba—8. Noes: None. Absent: Council Member Villegas — 1. Excused: None. Res. 375-25: CREATES ONE HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST 11 POSITION FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES Establishes one new position to provide additional support to the department's Classification and Pay Division. Reference: Comm. 585 Intr. by: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder (B/R) Approve: FC-100 Page 28 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Motion to Approve: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to adopt Res. 375-25 and Finance Committee Report No. 100. Seconded by Mr. Hustace. CHR. INABA: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Nice job, Chair. Thank you. CHR. INABA: Thank you. Turn your mic off if you don't need to. Okay. All those in favor, please say "aye." Vote on Res. 375-25: The motion to adopt Res. 375-25 and Finance Committee (Adopted) Report No. 100 was carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, and Chair Inaba—8. Noes: None. Absent: Council Member Villegas — 1. Excused: None. Res. 376-25: AUTHORIZES THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION, TO RECEIVE A GRANT FOR THE PUAPUA`A IKI HABITAT RESTORATION PROJECT FOR INVASIVE SPECIES MANAGEMENT AND SHORELINE STABILIZATION Allows for the receipt of$1,901,521 of federally-derived funds to restore eleven and a half acres of deforested land in Puapua`a Iki in North Kona. Reference: Comm. 586 Intr. by: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder (B/R) Approve: FC-101 Vote on Res. 376-25: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to adopt Res. 376-25 and (Adopted) Finance Committee Report No. 101. Seconded by Mr. Hustace and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Page 29 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Res. 377-25: AUTHORIZES THE PAYMENT OF FUNDS OF LATER FISCAL YEARS FOR THE FUNDING OF COST ITEMS ASSOCIATED WITH THE STATE OF HAWAI`I ORGANIZATION OF POLICE OFFICERS, BARGAINING UNIT 12, AND CERTAIN OTHER EMPLOYEES EXCLUDED FROM BARGAINING UNIT 12 FOR THE CONTRACT PERIOD BEGINNING DULY 1, 2025, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2029 The estimated costs over the four years of the new contract resulting from across- the-board increases, step movements, and one-time lump sum bonuses would be $57,298,879. Reference: Comm. 589 Intr. by: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder (B/R) Approve: FC-102 Vote on Res. 377-25: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to adopt Res. 377-25 and (Adopted) Finance Committee Report No. 102. Seconded by Mr. Hustace and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Res. 385-25: AUTHORIZES THE PAYMENT OF FUNDS OF LATER FISCAL YEARS TO ENTER INTO A MULTI-YEAR LEASE AGREEMENT FOR ONE MULTIFUNCTION COPY MACHINE TO BE USED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE Authorizes the Mayor to enter into a five-year lease agreement with an approximate monthly cost of$320, to be used by the department's Purchasing, Internal Controls and Transient Accommodations Tax, Property Management, and Risk Management Divisions. Reference: Comm. 605 Intr. by: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder (B/R) Waived: FC Page 30 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Vote on Res. 385-25: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to adopt Res. 385-25. (Adopted) Seconded by Mr. Hustace and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Res. 386-25: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO MALAMA ARTS FOR ITS PLAY READING SERIES Transfers $2,000 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account (Council District 3); and credits to the Department of Liquor Control, Public Programs account. Reference: Comm. 606 Intr. by: Council Member Onishi Motion to Approve: Mr. Onishi moved to adopt Res. 386-25. Seconded by Mr. Hustace. CHR. INABA: Vice Chair Onishi. MR. ONISHI: Just asking for support. Thank you. CHR. INABA: Thank you. All those in favor, please say "aye." Vote on Res. 386-25: The motion to adopt Res. 386-25 was carried by the (Adopted) following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Page 31 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Res. 387-25: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT FOR THE 2025 MAGIC OF THE SEASONS EVENT Transfers $500 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account (Council District 2); and credits to the Department of Parks and Recreation, Culture and Education Other Current Expenses account. Reference: Comm. 607 Intr. by: Council Member Kagiwada Motion to Approve: Ms. Kagiwada moved to adopt Res. 387-25. Seconded by Mr. Hustace. CHR. INABA: Council Member Kagiwada. MS. KAGIWADA: Thanks. Just looking for everybody's support. CHR. INABA: Thank you. All those in favor, please say "aye." Vote on Res. 387-25: The motion to adopt Res. 387-25 was carried by the (Adopted) following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Res. 388-25: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO MALAMA ARTS TO ASSIST WITH EXPENSES RELATING TO ITS PLAY READING SERIES Transfers $2,200 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account (Council District 2); and credits to the Department of Liquor Control, Public Programs account. Reference: Comm. 608 Intr. by: Council Member Kagiwada Motion to Approve: Ms. Kagiwada moved to adopt Res. 388-25. Seconded by Mr. Hustace. CHR. INABA: Council Member Kagiwada. Page 32 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MS. KAGIWADA: Thank you. As you heard the testimony earlier, this is a wonderful opportunity to provide some drama and excessive creative outlets to the community for free. So I think it's a really innovative way to try to reach out to more of our residents and provide them with a different kind of entertainment and way to interact. So I'm just very happy to be able to support this, and looking for everybody else's support. Thank you. CHR. INABA: Thank you. All those in favor of approving Resolution 388-25, please say "aye." Vote on Res. 388-25: The motion to adopt Res. 388-25 was carried by the (Adopted) following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Res. 389-25: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO HAMAKUA HEALTH CENTER, INC., FOR THE PA`AUILO CHRISTMAS PROGRAM Transfers $2,500 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account (Council District 1); and credits to the Department of Parks and Recreation, Administration Other Current Expenses account. Reference: Comm. 609 Intr. by: Council Member Kimball Vote on Res. 389-25: Ms. Kimball moved to adopt Res. 389-25. Seconded by (Adopted) Mr. Hustace and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Page 33 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Res. 390-25: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT TO PURCHASE WREATHS FOR THE WEST HAWAI`I VETERANS CEMETERY-PUU HO`OMAHA O NA PO`E KOA O HAWAI`I KOMOHANA FOR THE NATIONAL WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY Transfers $2,500 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account (Council District 7); and credits to the Department of Parks and Recreation, Administration Other Current Expenses account. Reference: Comm. 610 Intr. by: Council Member Villegas Motion to Approve: Ms. Villegas moved to adopt Res. 390-25. Seconded by Mr. Hustace. CHR. INABA: Council Member Villegas. MS. VILLEGAS: I just want to thank everyone that worked so hard to create such a beautiful event at the West Hawaii Veterans Cemetery. I yield. CHR. INABA: Thank you. All those in favor of approving Resolution 390-25, please say "aye." Vote on Res. 390-25: The motion to adopt Res. 390-25 was carried by the (Adopted) following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Res. 391-25: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO PETFIX SPAY AND NEUTER FOR ITS SPAY AND NEUTER CLINIC IN RURAL COUNCIL DISTRICT 1 Transfers $3,000 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account (Council District 1); and credits to the Department of Research and Development, Business Development account. Reference: Comm. 611 Intr. by: Council Member Kimball Page 34 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Vote on Res. 391-25: Ms. Kimball moved to adopt Res. 391-25. Seconded by (Adopted) Mr. Hustace and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Res. 392-25: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO PETFIX SPAY AND NEUTER TO SUPPORT ITS SPAY AND NEUTER CLINICS IN COUNCIL DISTRICT 6 Transfers $10,000 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account (Council District 6); and credits to the Department of Research and Development, Business Development account. Reference: Comm. 612 Intr. by: Council Member Galimba Vote on Res. 392-25: Ms. Galimba moved to adopt Res. 392-25. Seconded by (Adopted) Mr. Onishi and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Res. 393-25: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO MALAMA O PUNA FOR THE MAINTENANCE AND BEAUTIFICATION OF THE RENE SIRACUSA PAHOA ROUNDABOUT Transfers $2,500 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account (Council District 4); and credits to the Department of Liquor Control, Public Programs account. Reference: Comm. 613 Intr. by: Council Member Kierkiewicz Motion to Approve: Ms. Kierkiewicz moved to adopt Res. 393-25. Seconded by Mr. Hustace. Page 35 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 CHR. INABA: Council Member Kierkiewicz. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you, Chair. I just want to say mahalo nui to our community partners—Uncle Gilbert Hauanio, Tim Rowan, and their volunteer huffs—for taking care of this state asset. I cannot believe we're using County funds to maintain a State roundabout but here we are. They do such an incredible job, and maybe I'll be sending the State Department of Transportation a bill. Thank you, community, for taking care of the entryway into Pahoa and making it look so beautiful. I yield. CHR. INABA: Thank you. All those in favor of approving Resolution 393-25, please say "aye." Vote on Res. 393-25: The motion to adopt Res. 393-25 was carried by the (Adopted) following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Res. 394-25: TRANSFERS/APPROPRIATES AN APPROPRIATION OUT AND FROM A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT AND CREDITS SAME TO A DESIGNATED FUND ACCOUNT TO PROVIDE A GRANT TO MALAMA O PUNA FOR THE PAHOA LAVA ZONE MUSEUM COMMUNITY KITCHEN Transfers $2,500 from the Clerk-Council Services —Contingency Relief account (Council District 4); and credits to the Department of Research and Development, Agriculture Other Current Expenses account. Reference: Comm. 614 Intr. by: Council Member Kierkiewicz Motion to Approve: Ms. Kierkiewicz moved to adopt Res. 394-25. Seconded by Mr. Hustace. CHR. INABA: Council Member Kierkiewicz. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you for your support. CHR. INABA: All those in favor,please say "aye." Page 36 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Vote on Res. 394-25: The motion to adopt Res. 394-25 was carried by the (Adopted) following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Res. 395-25: APPROVES LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS AND PRIORITIES FOR INCLUSION IN THE 2026 HAWAI`I STATE ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES LEGISLATIVE PACKAGE Includes proposals relating to emergency medical services and opioid use disorder treatment, mixed-use development relating to housing, cesspools, Department of Education recreational facilities, the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact, tobacco products, the repeal of amendments to Section 201H-38 relating to housing, family, firearms, gun violence prevention, water pollution, general excise tax, conveyance tax, and housing for State and County employees; and nine policy priorities relating to: (1)road usage charges for electric vehicles; (2) opioid use; (3) increasing funds for emergency preparedness; (4) workforce development; (5) water viability and usage, and watershed monitoring and stewardship; (6) game management of wild ungulates; (7)promoting producer responsibility for solid waste; (8) wastewater infrastructure and cesspool conversion; and (9)prioritizing and promoting safe routes to school. Reference: Comm. 615 Intr. by: Council Member Kimball Waived: GOEAC Motion to Approve: Ms. Kimball moved to adopt Res. 395-25. Seconded by Mr. Hustace. CHR. INABA: Council Member Kimball. MS. KIMBALL: Just asking for everyone's support for a package that was put together by the Executive Committee of the HSAC (Hawai`i State Association of Counties). We're looking at some different platforms to help us stay on top of all of these pieces of legislation and legislative priorities. So we'll have more information about that for all of you very soon. CHR. INABA: Thank you, Council Member Kimball. Please note that this item was waived from Committee, so this is the first time the body's seeing it. Any questions? Vice Chair Onishi. Page 37 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MR. ONISHL Thank you, Chair. So, Ms. Kimball, this list of proposals, so all the counties need to approve this? CHR. INABA: Council Member Kimball. MS. KIMBALL: Yes, that is correct. And to date, I believe we are the last one. MR. ONISHL Okay. And then, so all these proposals, were we able toI guess Council Members could have submitted something for this package? MS. KIMBALL: Yes, that's correct. We have the Hawaii County package, which everybody on this board could submit recommendations to. Then we approve that. That goes to the HSAC Executive Committee where all four member counties vote on it, and then it comes back to the councils. MR. ONISHL Yeah, correct. I understand that, yeah, the process. But I don't remember the Council body, we went over our proposals from other Council Members. I don't remember that. Maybe you can help refresh my memory. MS. KIMBALL: I'm sorry if Iwe did go through the procedure of I presented a package. First, we had a communication where we discussed potential priorities. Then we put forth a resolution that listed various bills and legislative priorities to then elevate to the HSAC Executive Committee, which we passed through this body. I don't have the resolution numbers right in front of me, but I can certainly find that. But we did follow the appropriate process. MR. ONISHL Okay. Thank you, I yield. CHR. INABA: Thank you. All those in favor of MS. KIMBALL: If I may make one more comment, Chair? CHR. INABA: Go ahead. MS. KIMBALL: I just want to remind everybody that we are all members of HSAC. And even though I sit as the representative for this Council, and Council Member Kagiwada as the alternate, everybody's always invited to attend those meetings and participate in the discussions on this legislation. We are not a Sunshine Law body. So it is possible for all members to participate. CHR. INABA: Thank you for that reminder, Council Member Kimball. Any further discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor of approving Resolution 395-25, please say "aye." Page 38 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Vote on Res. 395-25: The motion to adopt Res. 395-25 was carried by the (Adopted) following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. BILLS FOR The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Bills for ORDINANCES Ordinances (First Reading). (FIRST READING): (Note: Items in this category were taken up previously, out of order.) Bill 63: AMENDS CHAPTER 25, ARTICLE 5, OF THE HAWAI`I COUNTY CODE (Draft 2) 1983 (2016 EDITION, AS AMENDED), RELATING TO DWELLINGS Permits residential dwellings within the industrial-commercial mixed use (MCX) zoning district. Reference: Comm. 333.7 Intr. by: Council Member Onishi Approve: PCPLUED-8 Postponed: October 22, 2025 (Note: There is a motion by Council Member Onishi, seconded by Council Member Hustace, to pass Bill 63, as amended, on first reading.) ; and Comm. 333.6: From Kona Community Development Plan Action Committee Chair Charles Young, dated October 17, 2025, transmitting comments regarding Bill 63, Draft 2. (Note: Comm. 333.8, from Council Member Dennis "Fresh" Onishi dated November 17, 2025, transmitting a proposed amendment to Bill 63, Draft 2, was circulated.) MR. ONISHL Mr. Chair, can I postpone Bill 63 to December 3ra. CHR. INABA: Mr. Clerk, do we need to get an active motion on the floor to approve ? MR. HENRICKS: There is currently a motion on the floor. This was postponed. Yeah. CHR. INABA: Excuse me. Sure, go ahead. Page 39 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Motion to Postpone: Mr. Onishi moved to postpone Bill 63, Draft 2, to December 3, 2025. Seconded by Ms. Villegas. CHR. INABA: Discussion on the postponement, Vice Chair Onishi? MR. ONISHL I just need a little bit more time. CHR. INABA: Thank you. MR. ONISHL Yeah, thank you. CHR. INABA: Any discussion on the postponement there? No, Council Member Kagiwada? Okay. All those in favor of postponing Bill 63, Draft 2, to the December 3rd Council meeting, please say "aye." Vote on Motion to The motion to postpone Bill 63, Draft 2, to December 3, Postpone: 2025, was carried by the following voice vote: (Approved) Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Bill 89: AMENDS CHAPTER 7, ARTICLE 1, OF THE HAWAI`I COUNTY CODE 1983 (Draft 2) (2016 EDITION, AS AMENDED), RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF THE CIVIL DEFENSE ADMINISTRATOR Adds a new section requiring the Civil Defense Administrator have a minimum of three years of responsible administrative experience in emergency management, disaster planning, homeland security, or public safety services management. In the event of a vacancy, the Mayor may convene a selection advisory panel consisting of the Fire Chief and Chief of Police to evaluate qualified applicants. Reference: Comm. 514.2 Intr. by: Council Member Kierkiewicz Approve: GOEAC-79 Motion to Approve: Ms. Kierkiewicz moved to pass Bill 89, Draft 2, on first reading and adopt Governmental Operations and External Affairs Committee Report No. 79. Seconded by Mr. Hustace. CHR. INABA: Council Member Kierkiewicz. Page 40 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you. Administrator Magno was here just to be here in support and answer any questions that folks might have. He needed business to attend to. But if folks have questions, I can ask him to appear via Zoom, but I think we had a robust discussion in Committee. And looking for everyone's support to carry this on to the next reading. Thank you, Chair. CHR. INABA: Thank you, Council Member Kierkiewicz. Any further discussion? MS. KIMBALL: Chair, if I may? CHR. INABA: Council Member Kimball. MS. KIMBALL: I think we may not have overlapped what we have been discussing, but the one point that I raised was about Item C. And that statutory requirement or the suggestion that the Mayor could convene this advisory panel, I believe and I think it was affirmed by the Corporation Counsel that that then becomes covered by Sunshine. And I'm just not sure if that was your intent. Since it's a"may" and it's not a requirement, I wonder if just I mean, the Mayor could do it anyway without it being in Code. But this might put the Sunshine Law restriction on yeah. I think it was Assistant Yoshimoto that confirmed that in the last hearing. This was like two hearings ago. (Note: At this time, Corporation Counsel Renee Schoen came forward to address the members of the Council.) MS. SCHOEN: Good afternoon. Renee Schoen, Corporation Counsel. I don't know the answer to that question. Normally, governmental boards and commissions established by Code or Charter would require Sunshine. I don't know if this type of commission that isappears advisory. So I would say no. MS. KIMBALL: We have lots of advisory committees that are still within Sunshine. MS. SCHOEN: Yeah, I understand but this is more toward the qualifications and more of advising the Mayor as to who he or she should hire for that position. So a little bit different from veterans, arborist. MS. KIMBALL: No, understood, but because it's established in Code, I think the argument is that—and it may not be a bad thing that this is something that has toI mean,you think about the hiring of the Police Chief or the Fire Chief, that's happening in an open meeting that is covered by Sunshine Law that is properly noticed. But I'm just not sure between now and second reading, something we should verify is whether or not this would be subject to Sunshine Law by putting it in Code. Because I think the Mayor could do that anyway. Page 41 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 The question is whether or not you want it to be a requirement, which I think is a whole different discussion, rather than a"may." But if it's just a"may,"then I say we take it out and let the Mayor decide if they want to do that or not. If it's a "shall,"then leave it in, and we'll figure out the Sunshine bit. MS. SCHOEN: Can I just comment on the "shall"? So I would say the "shall" would not be permissible, because the Mayor has exclusive authority as to hiring and firing under Chapter 76 of the HRS (Hawai`i Revised Statutes). Right, so but Council Member Kimball is suggesting possible language of making it a"shall." MS. KIMBALL: In which case, my recommendation is to just take it out for maximum flexibility. MS. KAGIWADA: Chair, can I clarify with Corporation Counsel here, a statement that was just made? CHR. INABA: Council Member Kimball, did you yield the floor? MS. KIMBALL: I did. I'm sorry, Chair. CHR. INABA: All right. Council Member Kagiwada. MS. KAGIWADA: Thank you. Just to clarify,you're saying that you don't think it should be made a"shall"because the Mayor has exclusive rights to hire, which is understood, but isn't this just an advisory group? It wouldn't take away the Mayor's exclusive right to hire, would it? Even if it was a"shall"to convene the group, it doesn't say that they get to make the decision. MS. SCHOEN: Correct. MS. KAGIWADA: The Mayor still retains the right to make the decision. MS. SCHOEN: Yes. MS. KAGIWADA: So I'm just wondering if that's still the same problem. As long as the Mayor still retains that authority. MS. SCHOEN: I guess not. MS. KAGIWADA: Okay. All right. So,yeah. Let the maker MS. SCHOEN: Let me qualify that. I mean, my concern is that when I think of Chapter 76, I see it as an exclusive procedure as to how things are going to happen. So, when you have another body of the County saying how that should be done, I'm not certain, sitting here right now, that I'm super comfortable with it. Page 42 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MS. KAGIWADA: Okay. Sounds like there's a couple things to be worked out still. Thank you, I yield. CHR. INABA: Any further discussion in Hilo? If not, thank you, Council Member Kierkiewicz, for the amendment at the last hearing,just to clarify no conflict with Chapter 76. So, all those in favor of approving Bill 89, Draft 2, at first reading, please say "aye." Vote on Bill 89: The motion to pass Bill 89, Draft 2, on first reading and Draft 2 adopt Governmental Operations and External Affairs (Approved) Committee Report No. 79 was carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, and Chair Inaba—8. Noes: None. Absent: Council Member Villegas — 1. Excused: None. Bill 97: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 25-45, AS AMENDED, THE OPERATING BUDGET OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI`I FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2026 Appropriates revenues in the Federal Grants —State Homeland Security Program Fiscal Year 2021 account($2,189.48); and appropriates the same to the State Homeland Security Program Fiscal Year 2021 account, for a total appropriation of $622,189.48. Funds will be used to support the waste-water bio-hazard mitigation proj ect. Reference: Comm. 575 Intr. by: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder (B/R) Approve: FC-103 Motion to Approve: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to pass Bill 97 on first reading and adopt Finance Committee Report No. 103. Seconded by Mr. Hustace. CHR. INABA: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: I just wanted to say thank you, Chair, for recognizing the importance of Bill 97. I appreciate your time. Thank you. CHR. INABA: You're welcome. All those in favor of approving Bill 97 at first reading, please say "aye." Page 43 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Vote on Bill 97: The motion to pass Bill 97 on first reading and adopt (Approved) Finance Committee Report No. 103 was carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, and Chair Inaba—8. Noes: None. Absent: Council Member Villegas — 1. Excused: None. Bill 98: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 25-50, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 6 OF THE HAWAI`I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2016 EDITION, AS AMENDED), RELATING TO TRANSIENT ACCOMMODATIONS Delays the effective date of Ordinance No. 25-50, relating to transient accommodations, until July 1, 2026. Reference: Comm. 578 Intr. by: Council Member Kimball Approve: PCPLUED-9 Vote on Bill 98: Ms. Kimball moved to pass Bill 98 on first reading and (Approved) adopt Policy Committee on Planning, Land Use, and Economic Development Committee Report No. 9. Seconded by Ms. Galimba and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, and Chair Inaba—8. Noes: None. Absent: Council Member Villegas — 1. Excused: None. Bill 99: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 25-45, AS AMENDED, THE OPERATING BUDGET OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI`I FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2026 Appropriates revenues in the Federal Grants —Bipartisan Infrastruct Law Coastal Zone Management Habitat Protection and Restoration account($1,901,521); and appropriates the same to the Bipartisan Infrastruct Law Coastal Zone Management Habitat Protection and Restoration account. Funds would be used to restore eleven and a half acres of deforested land in Puapua`a Iki in North Kona. Reference: Comm. 586 Intr. by: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder (B/R) Approve: FC-104 Page 44 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Vote on Bill 99: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to pass Bill 99 on first (Approved) reading and adopt Finance Committee Report No. 104. Seconded by Mr. Hustace and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, and Chair Inaba—8. Noes: None. Absent: Council Member Villegas — 1. Excused: None. Bill 100: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 25-45, AS AMENDED, THE OPERATING BUDGET OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI`I FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2026 Appropriates revenues in the State Grants —SS4A-County of Hawaii Smart and Safe Intersection Demonstration Project account($840,000); and appropriates the same to the SS4A-County of Hawaii Smart and Safe Intersection Demonstration Project account. Reference: Comm. 587 Intr. by: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder (B/R) Approve: FC-105 Vote on Bill 100: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to pass Bill 100 on first (Approved) reading and adopt Finance Committee Report No. 105. Seconded by Mr. Hustace and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, and Chair Inaba—8. Noes: None. Absent: Council Member Villegas — 1. Excused: None. Page 45 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Bill 102: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 25-45, AS AMENDED, THE OPERATING BUDGET OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI`I FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2026 Appropriates revenues in the Federal Grants —County of Hawaii Smart and Safe Intersection Demonstration Project account($3,360,000); and appropriates the same to the County of Hawaii Smart and Safe Intersection Demonstration Project account. Reference: Comm. 590 Intr. by: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder (B/R) Approve: FC-106 Vote on Bill 102: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to pass Bill 102 on first (Approved) reading and adopt Finance Committee Report No. 106. Seconded by Mr. Hustace and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kimball, Onishi, and Chair Inaba—7. Noes: None. Absent: Council Members Kierkiewicz and Villegas —2. Excused: None. Bill 104: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 25-45, AS AMENDED, THE OPERATING BUDGET OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI`I FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2026 Increases revenues in the Federal Grants —Traffic Safety Training Project Grant account($18,440); and appropriates the same to the Traffic Safety Training Project account. Funds will be used by the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney to assist with travel expenses for conferences, trainings, and meetings related to impaired driving and effective prosecution of impaired driving offenses. Reference: Comm. 594 Intr. by: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder (B/R) Approve: FC-107 Page 46 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Vote on Bill 104: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to pass Bill 104 on first (Approved) reading and adopt Finance Committee Report No. 107. Seconded by Mr. Hustace and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kimball, Onishi, and Chair Inaba—7. Noes: None. Absent: Council Members Kierkiewicz and Villegas —2. Excused: None. ORDER OF The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Order of THE DAY the Day (Second or Final Reading). (SECOND OR FINAL READING): Bill 52: AMENDS CHAPTER 25, ARTICLES 1, 4, AND 5, OF THE HAWAI`I COUNTY (Draft 3) CODE 1983 (2016 EDITION, AS AMENDED), RELATING TO HENNERIES Allows hens for household egg production on single-family, double-family, multiple-family residential, residential-commercial mixed use, and residential and agricultural zoning;provides for certain conditions and regulations. Reference: Comm. 286.9 Intr. by: Council Member Kimball First Reading: October 22, 2025 Postponed: November 5, 2025 (Note: There is a motion by Council Member Galimba, seconded by Council Member Kagiwada, to pass Bill 52, Draft 3, on second and final reading.) ; and Comm. 286.10: From Council Member Dennis "Fresh" Onishi, dated November 4, 2025, transmitting testimony from the State Department of Health's Hawaii District Health Office. ; and Comm. 286.11: From Council Member Dennis "Fresh" Onishi, dated November 5, 2025, transmitting a proposed amendment to Bill 52, Draft 3. (Note: Communications 286.12 through 286.14, transmitting proposed amendments to Bill 52, Draft 3, from Council Member Heather L. Kimball, were circulated.) CHR. INABA: I'm going to go to the maker of this: Council Member Kimball. Page 47 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MS. KIMBALL: I'm happy to address Council Member Onishi's amendment first, and just do them in order. CHR. INABA: Thank you. MR. ONISHL Thank you. Chair, can I make a motion to close Communication 286.10;just informational to the Council Members. CHR. INABA: We'll just note for the record that the communication has been provided. So Communication 286.10, being the testimony from the State Department of Health. MR. ONISHL Right. And this is in regards to when we talked about all the noise and so forth. So I did check with Mr. Honda, and he told me that their department, or their section, does not regulate noise, only construction noise, which is in the mornings. And so now, can I amend Bill 52, Draft 3, with Communication 286.11? Motion to Amend: Mr. Onishi moved to amend Bill 52, Draft 3, with the contents of Comm. 286.11. Seconded by Mr. Hustace. CHR. INABA: Vice Chair Onishi. MR. ONISHL This is just to take out the noise that was recommended by the Department of Health to remove that noise. So I ask for your support. CHR. INABA: Thank you. On the amendment, any discussion? MS. KIMBALL: Chair, I just want to indicate that I'm supportive of this amendment. CHR. INABA: Thank you, Council Member Kimball. Seeing no further lights on, all those in favor of amending Bill 52, Draft 3,with the contents of Communication 286.11,please say "aye." Vote on Motion to The motion to amend Bill 52, Draft 3, with the contents of Amend: Comm. 286.11 was carried by the following voice vote: (Approved) Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, and Chair Inaba—8. Noes: None. Absent: Council Member Villegas — 1. Excused: None. Page 48 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Motion to Amend: Ms. Kimball moved to amend Bill 52, Draft 3, with the contents of Comm. 286.12. Seconded by Ms. Galimba. CHR. INABA: Council Member Kimball. MS. KIMBALL: Thank you. I think, as you are all well aware, I received quite a lot of feedback on this piece of legislation. One of them was hens are flock animals, and so a pair of birds might feel less comfortable than a quartet, and that they would be healthier. They'd lay better eggs. And so, instead of setting the floor at 3,000 square feet, they get two, moved it to up to 5,000 square feet and they would have four, and then one per additional thousand square feet. Keeping in mind we have very few lots under 5,000 square feet to begin with. Just getting the feedback that I did from the people that do actually own chickens: Four is better than two to start with if you're going to have a minimum number. CHR. INABA: Thank you. Any discussion on this amendment? Seeing none, all those in favor of further amending Bill 52 with the contents of Communication 286.12,please say "aye." Vote on Motion to The motion to amend Bill 52, Draft 3, with the contents of Amend: Comm. 286.12 was carried by the following voice vote: (Approved) Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Motion to Amend: Ms. Kimball moved to amend Bill 52, Draft 3, with the contents of Comm. 286.13. Seconded by Ms. Galimba. CHR. INABA: Council Member Kimball. MS. KIMBALL: Thank you. There was concern about this clause. For example, if someone were to have a dozen extra eggs and want to sell them to their neighbor on a once-in-a-while basis, that they would be in violation of this provision. So this just adds clearly that this is prohibiting commercial sales. It is a little redundant because it is contained in the definition as well. But just because we know that folks wouldn't necessarily look at both sections of the Code, I thought it was important to reiterate that we're talking about a prohibition of commercial sale, which is indeed regulated by the State Department of Health. It's just like if you sell a bike out of your garage to a friend, it doesn't make you suddenly a commercial bike shop. These are rare events. It is not creating a Page 49 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 chicken or egg production facility in a residential lot, but wanted to provide that clarification. So folks were not concerned about the occasional sale of eggs to friends, or chickens. Thank you. CHR. INABA: Thank you, Council Member Kimball. On the amendment? Vice Chair Onishi. No? All right, all those in favor of further amending Bill 52, Draft 3, with the contents of Communication 286.13, please say "aye." Vote on Motion to The motion to amend Bill 52, Draft 3, with the contents of Amend: Comm. 286.13 was carried by the following voice vote: (Approved) Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Motion to Amend: Ms. Kimball moved to amend Bill 52, Draft 3, with the contents of Comm. 286.14. Seconded by Ms. Villegas. CHR. INABA: I just want to clarify, does everyone have a copy of that amendment? All right. Go ahead, Council Member Kimball. MS. KIMBALL: Thank you, Chair. This amendment is really intended to address the fact that we have such a diversity of situations and land uses and property types when we're talking about permitting this in residential areas. And the nuances between balancing food security, sustainability, people having this ability within the residential areas. But also at the same time, in more densely populated residential areas, folks have the expectation there wouldn't be "farm animals"right next door. And so, what this amendment proposes is that there may be certain circumstances, areas of the island, where a coop is not necessary. So, for example, one of the testifiers earlier, her particular situation is she's literally next to an ag lot with free ranging chickens. So why are we going to have her right next to that be required to have a coop when there's chickens just walking around next door? And so, what this does is the default becomes the coop, which I think is appropriate. But if there are exceptional circumstances, the Director has some flexibility. There's just no one size fits all about what is appropriate across this entire County. And so, the best solution to me seems to be to build some discretion in from the department. Happy to take questions on this one. CHR. INABA: Council Member Hustace, on the amendment. Page 50 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 MR. HUSTACE: Thank you, Chair. Is Director Darrow still in chambers there in Hilo? MS. KIMBALL: He is indeed. MR. HUSTACE: Fantastic. If Director Darrow could come forward. I just was curious about his level of discretion. (Note: At this time, Planning Director Jeffrey Darrow came forward to address the members of the Council.) MR. DARROW: Aloha, Chair, Vice Chair, and members of the Hawaii County Council. Jeff Darrow with the Planning Department. MR. HUSTACE: Thank you, Director. If you could just I know Council Member Kimball provided some insight into discretion, but this is calling you and giving you the discretion. So I'm curious as to what are your guidelines that you can share with us here. MR. DARROW: If you could do me a favor, Council Member Hustace— MR. HUSTACE: Anything. Go ahead, Director,yes. MR. DARROW: Just the section that you're referring to. MR. HUSTACE: So this is Communication 286.14. MR. DARROW: 286.14, that I did not get. MS. KAGIWADA: We're bringing it to him right now. MR. HUSTACE: Thank you. MR. DARROW: That was good that I asked. I didn't see it in the bill. I thought I had all the amendments, but this, I guess, came in after this morning. So, typically, when we see this phrase "except as otherwise approved by the Director," it usually refers to plan approval. That's typically what we'll do. So it's like an approval from the Director through a plan approval. In this particular case, it's similar to what we see when you look in the Code when it was referring to piggeries or apiaries before but not anymore because that's changed. But there's the similar type of language. We look at the particular situation, and we evaluate it according to what the proposed plan is. In this particular case, if it looks like this is not going to be an issue people were asking to, instead of it being "fully confined area,"that it just be a fenced area. If Page 51 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 it looks like that's not a big issue, it's not going to have an impact on anybody in that the particular situation calls for that allowance for a fenced area instead of fully enclosed area, we're usually pretty flexible when it comes to that. And again, I'm talking for myself. I can't speak to future planning directors. But I would anticipate that directors will look at this similarly to how I would look at it. I've been living in agricultural zoning for the last 30, 40 years. You see how things work. Chickens have a tendency to kind of hang out where they're fed, right. That's what they do. They don't go wondering all over, although there are some that do. And that's the ones we're trying to make sure they don't do that. But if hens are part of that particular location and they're being constantly fed and they have a coop and they have an area, they tend to stay there. And they don't tend to fly out and go cruising all over the neighborhood. But again, to answer your question, we look at each case, case by case, and make a determination. If it looks like it's reasonable, we'll go ahead and approve. MR. HUSTACE: Thank you, Director. I appreciate that feedback. I may have to push back on the sense that they stay in a certain area. They will travel the neighborhood because maybe the neighbor will feed them. So there is some potential fallout from that. But yeah, they do try and centralize in certain areas, but there was some testimony on clipping wings and those sorts of things. But yeah, I appreciate your feedback. Thank you, Director. MR. DARROW: Thank you. CHR. INABA: In Hilo, any further discussion on the amendment? Seeing none, all those in favor of further amending Bill 52 with the contents of Communication 286.14,please say "aye." Vote on Motion to The motion to amend Bill 52, Draft 3, with the contents of Amend: Comm. 286.14 was carried by the following voice vote: (Approved) Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Page 52 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Vote on Motion to Ms. Kimball moved to suspend Council Rule 23 to waive Suspend Council the holdover for the substantive amendment of Bill 52, Rules: Draft 3. Seconded by Ms. Villegas and carried by the (Approved) following roll call vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—8. Noes: Council Member Hustace— 1. Absent: None. Excused: None. CHR. INABA: Council Member Kimball. MS. KIMBALL: Yeah, thank you, Chair. And first of all, let me just mahalo the rest of the Council for holding onto this and letting me have an opportunity to refine it a little bit, based on some of the feedback that we got at second and final reading, which was last session. So, appreciate the opportunity to take some time with this and respond to some of the commentary. But I think we've got a nice bill, and ask for your support to get it over the finish line. Mahalo. CHR. INABA: Thank you. Vice Chair Onishi. MR. ONISHL Thank you, Chair. I just wanted to state for the record that, for those that live in my district in residential areas, I know not all of them were in support of this bill. I tried to do different, multiple, I guess, suggestions. It's just that I guess it doesn't work. It didn't work. I mean, I'll support it but I just wanted to put on record that I was opposing this in residential areas, especially for lots that are, I guess, smaller than—like 10,000 square foot lots. I yield. CHR. INABA: Seeing no further lights on, all those in favor of approving MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Chair? CHR. INABA: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: I thought you saw my light, Chair. I'm sorry. Just wanted to say mahalo to Council Member Kimball. We walked in a bill at the same time. Ultimately, here we are. The last two or three weeks on social media has been really interesting, watching the commentary go by on the prohibition of chickens across the island and government overreach. But the bill does exactly the opposite. I wasn't expecting the amendments today. But the amendments actually address some of the key concerns I was on board with but didn't know how to address Page 53 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 myself. And she touched on all of them in ways that were creative, and came out with a better bill than what we had started with. And I think that will make the community happy. Ultimately, I was in Safeway the other day and chicken eggs were, I think, $10.99 for a dozen. And it just I didn't check the price of quail eggs. I missed that one. But ultimately—and let's just call it$10 a dozenI don't remember ever seeing eggs that expensive. So, giving the ability of people, providing the ability through a legislative change to have chickens in their backyards and provide their own eggs to their families, sell them to their neighbors non-commercially, is such a leg up for the community. I cannot speak highly enough to what this bill does. So thank you, Ms. Kimball, for getting this all the way through. I appreciate it. I yield, Chair. CHR. INABA: Thank you. All those in favor of approving Bill 52 on second and final reading,please say "aye." Vote on Bill 52: The motion to pass Bill 52, Draft 3, as amended to Draft 4, Draft 4 on second and final reading was carried by the following (Adopted) voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Bill 94: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 25-45, AS AMENDED, THE OPERATING BUDGET FOR THE COUNTY OF HAWAI`I FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2026 Increases revenues in the Federal Grants —Emergency Solutions Grants Program account($4,045); and appropriates the same to the Emergency Solutions Grants Projects account($3,741) and Emergency Solutions Grants Administrative account ($304). Reference: Comm. 545 Intr. by: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder (B/R) First Reading: November 5, 2025 Page 54 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Vote on Bill 94: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to pass Bill 94 on second (Adopted) and final reading. Seconded by Mr. Hustace and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Bill 95: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 25-45, AS AMENDED, THE OPERATING BUDGET FOR THE COUNTY OF HAWAI`I FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2026 Appropriates revenues in the Federal Grants —Block Grants account($43,195) and decreases revenues in the Administrative Planning and Fair Housing account (-$19,305); and appropriates the same to the Community Development Block Grant Projects account, for a total appropriation of$62,500. Reference: Comm. 546 Intr. by: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder (B/R) First Reading: November 5, 2025 Vote on Bill 95: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to pass Bill 95 on second (Adopted) and final reading. Seconded by Mr. Hustace and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Bill 96: AMENDS CHAPTER 15, ARTICLE 7, SECTION 15-62, OF THE HAWAI`I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2016 EDITION, AS AMENDED), RELATING TO THE VETERANS ADVISORY COMMITTEE Amends the Veterans Advisory Committee to no longer require one representative each from the American Legion, Big Island National Guard Retirees Association, Big Island Retired Military Association, and Veterans of Foreign Wars, as well as eight at-large members. Reference: Comm. 548 Intr. by: Council Member Hustace First Reading: November 5, 2025 Page 55 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Motion to Approve: Mr. Hustace moved to pass Bill 96 on second and final reading. Seconded by Ms. Galimba. CHR. INABA: Council Member Hustace. MR. HUSTACE: Thank you, Chair. I appreciate the conversations we've had on this. It hasn't been lengthy but I appreciate the interest in this. I just want to mahalo the Veterans Advisory Committee; commission members that are forward thinking, trying to think and see how they can improve their own commission as they look to their membership in the years to come. So, happy to work with them in bringing this bill forward, and appreciate the support all around. Mahalo. CHR. INABA: Vice Chair Onishi. MR. ONISHL Thank you. I just wanted to mention that I attended last week Saturday the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Ms. Lewis had explained to them about this bill, and they were all in support. So I thank you, Mr. Hustace. CHR. INABA: Thank you, Vice Chair Onishi. All those in favor of approving Bill 96 at second and final reading, please say "aye." Vote on Bill 96: The motion to pass Bill 96 on second and final reading was (Adopted) carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Bill 101: AMENDS ORDINANCE NO. 25-46, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS AND THE FINANCING THEREOF FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2026 Appropriates excess fuel tax revenues collected from fiscal years 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 to the following projects totaling $1,493,554.75: Roadway Projects ($448,066.43), Bridge Inspection/Repair ($298,710.95), and Local Road Projects ($746,777.37). Funds for these projects shall be provided from fuel tax revenues, in excess of what was projected in Ordinance No. 23-18. Reference: Comm. 588 Intr. by: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder (B/R) First Reading: November 5, 2025 Note: Requires 2/3 vote of the entire membership to amend,pursuant to Section 10-6(e), Hawaii County Charter Page 56 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 (Note: Comm. 588.1, from Public Works Acting Director Wesley Segawa dated November 19, 2025, transmitting proposed amendments to Bill 101, was circulated.) Motion to Approve: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to pass Bill 101 on second and final reading. Seconded by Ms. Villegas. Motion to Amend: Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder moved to amend Bill 101 with the contents of Comm. 588.1. Seconded by Mr. Hustace. CHR. INABA: Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Chair, we have joining us today Ms. Kelsey Kalua-Lewis from the Department of Public Works. She is going to provide us just a little bit of background on the amendment. (Note: At this time, Business Manager Kelsey Kalua-Lewis, Public Works Department, came forward to address the members of the Council.) MS. KALUA-LEWIS: Good afternoon. Kelsey Kalua-Lewis, Department of Public Works. Just wanted to provide a little background on the amendment. There was an oversight on my part when we had introduced the original bill. We had attached the wrong exhibit. So what the amendment shows is the correct totals that should be allotted for each project, and then also we had a slight difference in total for the total program amount. But I am grateful for the checks and balances that the County has, in that together we identify these types of mistakes. So thank you guys for allowing me to submit this amendment, and I ask for your support. I'm open to any questions. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you very much. I don't have any questions. And thank you for catching the mistake and bringing in the amendment to fix it. I appreciate it. Chair, I yield. CHR. INABA: All right, all those in favor of amending MS. KIMBALL: Chair, I had one super tiny question. CHR. INABA: Go ahead, Council Member Kimball. MS. KIMBALL: I just wondered, with the values changing, do the percentages change as well? Or are those accurate? MS. KALUA-LEWIS: Those are accurate. Yeah. MS. KIMBALL: Okay, fabulous. Okay, great. I want to just make sure all the is are crossed and is are dotted. Thank you. Thank you, Chair. I yield. Page 57 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 CHR. INABA: All right. All those MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Chair, sorry I have one question. CHR. INABA: I think your lights are getting dimmer. Go ahead. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you. Okay, a random question, Ms. Kalua-Lewis. The bridge to Coconut Island, is that included in this bridge inspection and repairs program? Or is that separate? MS. KALUA-LEWIS: No, that's separate. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay. Thank you. I yield. MS. KALUA-LEWIS: You're welcome. CHR. INABA: Thank you. Moku Ola. All right, all those in favor of amending Bill 101 with the contents of Communication 588.1, please say "aye." Vote on Motion to The motion to amend Bill 101 with the contents of Amend: Comm. 588.1 was carried by the following voice vote: (Approved) Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Vote on Motion to Mr. Onishi moved to suspend Council Rule 23 to waive the Suspend Council holdover for the substantive amendment of Bill 101. Rules: Seconded by Mr. Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder and carried by the (Approved) following roll call vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Kagiwada, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—7. Noes: Council Members Hustace and Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder—2. Absent: None. Excused: None. Page 58 Hawaii County Council-27 November 19,2025 Vote on Bill 101: The motion to pass Bill 101, as amended to Draft 2, on Draft 2) second and final reading was carried by the following voice (Adopted) vote: Ayes: Council Members Galimba, Hustace,Kagiwada, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. OTHER The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, Other BUSINESS: Business. (There were none.) ANNOUNCE- The Chair directed the Council to proceed to the next order of business, MENTS: Announcements. (Note: At this time, Council Members made announcements regarding community events, activities, and other unofficial business.) ADJOURN- There being no further business, Chair Inaba adjourned the meeting at 2:53 p.m. MENT: Council Approval: FEB1 8 2 025 OUNTY RK JWdg Wage 59