HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0334.051 2024-2026From: Ikaika Rodenhurst
Sent: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 9:08 AM
To: Council Testimony; Inaba, Holeka; Kimball, Heather, Kanealii-Kleinfelder, Matt;
Hustace, James; Onishi, Dennis; Villegas, Rebecca; Kierkiewicz, Ashley; Kagiwada,
Jennifer, Galimba, Michelle M.
Subject: 10/8/25 Council, Bill 64 Testimony - Opposition
Aloha Chair Inaba and Members of the Hawaii County Council,
My name is Steven Ikaika Rodenhurst, professional engineer, member of the Hawaii Society of Professional
Engineers (State Chapter of the National Society of Professional Engineers), and former Director of Public
Works for the County of Hawaii. I respectfully submit this testimony in strong opposition to,Bill 64.
Per Hawaii County Code (HCC) 2-39, the director has the charge of supervision, direction, and control over the
construction, repair, maintenance, and operation of all County buildings, structures, grounds, not otherwise
delegated to other departments; the administration and enforcement of the County construction code; the
duties of administration, control, and operation of all divisions and bureaus of the department of public works
and the appointment, transfer, promotion, demotion, or dismissal of all necessary personnel. The director has
the authority to overturn any decision made by the Department of Public Works. The director is also required
to sign civil construction plans on roadway projects certifying that the design meets the required codes and
standards. In the event of legal challenges against the engineering decisions of the Department of Public
Works, the director is responsible for defending those decisions.
This bill would allow someone to assume the director position and be unable to perform critical duties required
of the director. Bill 64 represents a step backward in ensuring the safety, reliability, and accountability of our
county's infrastructure. I urge the council to reject this bill and uphold the professional standards our
community deserves.
Mahalo for your time and consideration. o fl
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Steven Ikaika Rodenhurst, P.E.
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Comm. • S!
Ref. To:
Ref. Date OCT - 9 9025