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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN GOEAC 2026/09/01 (2024-2026) Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs 41st Session Hawai`i County Building 25 Aupuni Street Hilo, Hawai`i September 1, 2026 CALL TO The regular meeting of the Committee on Governmental Operations and ORDER: External Affairs was called to order at 9:02 a.m.,in the Council Chambers, Hilo,by Ms. Jenn Kagiwada, Chair. ROLL CALL: Present: Ms. Jenn Kagiwada, Chair Mr. Matt Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder,Vice Chair Ms. Michelle M. Galimba,Member Mr. James E. Hustace,Member Mr. Holeka Goro Inaba, Member Ms. Ashley L. Kierkiewicz,Member Ms. Heather L. Kimball,Member Mr. Dennis "Fresh" Onishi,Member Ms. Rebecca Villegas,Member STATEMENTS The Chair directed the Committee to proceed to the next order of business, FROM THE Statements from the Public on Agenda Items. PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS: (There were none.) CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you so much. Okay, we'll go straight down the line here and start with Communication 1003,please. COMMUNI- The Chair directed the Committee to proceed to the next order of business, CATIONS: Communications. Comm. 1003: NOMINATION OF ZAHAVA ZAIDOFF TO THE TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION From Mayor C. Kimo Alameda, dated July 28, 2026,requesting the Council's review and confirmation. Motion to Approve: Mr. Hustace moved to recommend confirmation of the nomination of Ms. Zahava Zaidoff to the Transportation Commission. Seconded by Ms. Kimball. GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 CHR. KAGIWADA: I will turn it over to Mr. Alameda from the Mayor's Office to introduce the Mayor's nominee. (Note: At this time,Executive Assistant to the Mayor Micah Alameda and the nominee came forward to address the members of the committee.) MR. ALAMEDA: Aloha and good morning, Council Members. Mahalo Chair Kagiwada,my name is Micah Alameda,Executive Assistant, Office of the Mayor. It is my pleasure to introduce Communication 1003, nominating Zahava"Zee"Zaidoff to the Transportation Commission representing Council District 6. If confirmed, Ms. Zaidoff will serve a term that expires on December 31, 2027. I've known Ms. Zaidoff through her advocacy. She came forward to testify at the Committee on People with Disabilities a couple of times, and of course, through her application for the Transportation Commission. I know her as an advocate for improving our transportation system on the island,particularly,in rural areas like Ocean View where she is from; where she is Zooming in right now,I'm sure. Without further ado, we're honored to nominate Ms. Zaidoff. Back to you, mahalo. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you very much,Mr. Alameda. I want to turn it over to Ms. Zaidoff, I can call you "Zee." I've known Zee for a long time. So, please, do you want to say a few words to the Council or the committee at this point about maybe why you're interested in joining this committee. MS. ZAIDOFF: Yes, I appreciate it. Thank you, Chair and other esteemed Council Members. Thank you,Micah Alameda and the Mayor for the nomination. I'm really interested in joining the Transportation Commission, mostly like Micah was talking about,right? I live in a rural area; I live in Ocean View. I know that there's transportation issues around the island. I know the public transportation system has gotten a lot better in the last couple years since I've been living there. And we still have issues that I feel like, need a voice; need a voice at the County level, specifically, on this commission. Namely, those with disabilities. Paratransit is not available in the area where I live. Also,the Hele On runs in my area. But it could be five miles from people's homes to be able to get down to where the Hele On runs. So, I'm really just excited to be part of the solution and to elevate the issues that happen in some of these smaller communities. Page 2 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 Again, for those with disabilities and those economically depressed areas that really could use additional services. So,like I said, excited to be a part of the solution. Thank you so much for the opportunity. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you,Zee. I'll turn it over to the committee for any questions or comments. Council Member Galimba. MS. GALIMBA: Just wanted to say, thank you, Zee for stepping up. I know you're going to be a great participant in this committee, and you're not afraid to speak up for the needs of the most vulnerable. So, thank you so much. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you so much. Council Member Onishi. MR. ONISHI: Thank you, Madame Chair. I had a couple of questions. So, you mentioned about that paratransit, right, which is true. I mean, it's islandwide that we have this problem. So, what is your vision or what is your goal in accomplishing getting more support? MS. ZA1DOFF: I really appreciate your question, Council Member Onishi. I think one of the things that I've been able to see,up close and personal. I have a child who attends UH (University of Hawai`i)Hilo. And I noticed the Taxicab program there. My kid has disabilities, and so, we were looking for different options in that area. I don't know if it was run as a pilot program, and there are a couple of taxicabs where people can get a ride up to the five miles for free. And that is being run as a part of Mass Transit. And I understand with taxicabs and people paying and the medallions and all of those. I would really love to have a discussion amongst the members of the Transportation Commission about perhaps being able to start something like that in areas that don't have paratransit and/or areas that are really rural and those that are economically depressed. Because I can tell you that, in the Ocean View area where I live, for those who live up the hill, for an economic perspective also. If we created a program of sorts where people could use their private vehicles. And it could be similar to the requirements that Uber and Lyft have. It has to be a certain model year, right, for the car. And registration, of course, all legal with insurance. We could create jobs for our community in giving people rides up to the five miles from where they live to make it down to that Lyft. I also have a close friend who lives in Waikoloa Village who's currently in a wheelchair and is unable to get to where mass transit runs;to where the Hele On is over at KTA. Page 3 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 If we had a service like we had in Hilo,in the Village,you could people from their homes over to the Hele On. And then, all of a sudden,people who had no access to transportation could have it. So,I'd really like to explore the financial implications around the Taxi program and potentially what's holding it back from other areas on the island. I understand the issue with the paratransit and the cost of new paratransit vehicles and employees. I know the County has been working on that. But I feel like the creative solutions; I'd really just love an opportunity to be on the commission and have discussion around creative solutions, so that we can get transportation for our most vulnerable people, disabled or not; economically depressed or not. Just lives in areas where access to transportation is hindered for whatever reason. I hope that answers your question, Council Member Onishi. MR. ONISHI: You also mentioned about costs. And that's one of the problems that Mass Transit faces; is that the cost and this island is so big. You know,it's so spread out,right? And so, services cost money. • So, as a future commissioner, would you be willing to look into how you guys can generate more revenue. Like, for example, at one time they were looking at having the advertisements on the buses to generate income. But they've been pushed back on that. So, what is your feelings on that? MS. ZAIDOFF: I would really be open to having the conversation with fellow commissioners around thoughts on that. And I would absolutely reach out to Council Members to try to figure out what's already been discussed; what are we looking at and what are we not. But at this particular moment I don't know. I don't really have thoughts around how we would generate more money to be able to offer those services. But I do know as Government appointees, we have an opportunity really to prioritize our values,right? And I feel like you need to budget for access; is one of the things I believe. I'm not one of those people what thinks like, oh,we just need to do it and there's no money for it. So,let's take money from other areas. But if that's part of my role as commissioner on the Transportation Commission,to be able to look through the budget and see where the money would be available. Because I really do believe, and it's kind of a personal thing of mine,but we budget for access and we prioritize our values. I mean,I do a lot of work in suicide prevention; in substance use, I'm a counselor by trade. And public transportation,I wrote about it a couple of years ago about how public transportation can really be the answer to so many of the problems that face us as a County. Page 4 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 I see people who are trying to get mental health care, and there's no availability on the West side of any doctors. You know,particularly,psychiatrists. So, you have someone who wants to get out to Hilo,but there's a 4:30 p.m. appointment. So, you have someone who's willing to do the two-and-a-half hour,the three-hour bus ride to get over to Hilo,but by the time the appointment ends,the buses are done running. Like from all aspects, from the economic issues for people being able to get to work. I think we need to prioritize public transportation, and I am excited to sit with other commissioners and to bring strong solutions. MR. ONISHI: Great. I just wanted to know that once you get confirmed, if you can look at how you folks can generate more revenue to help provide those services that you're mentioning,right? My last question is,how do feel about Light Rail? MS. ZAIDOFF: How do I feel about Light Rail? I think anything that we can do for public transportation. Recess: At 9:12 a.m.,the Chair called for a recess. Reconvene: The meeting reconvened at 9:13 a.m. CHR. KAGIWADA: Okay, we're back. I'm sorry, we had to help somebody who was here in the chambers. Go ahead, Council Member Onishi,you had one last question. MR. ONISHI: Thank you. So,my last question, is what is your thoughts on Light Rail for the island? MS. ZAIDOFF: I've thought about Light Rail a little bit. I appreciate the question Council Member Onishi. I don't know enough about the effect of the environmental impact and what that would look like as far as if there needed to be eminent domain around some people who live in certain areas. I'm not sure where it would go. As an idea, I think that having fast, efficient transportation around the island would be great. I would not necessarily be willing to give up,right, taking care of the environment and the `aina here in order to get it. But I am absolutely open to learning more about it. MR. ONISHI: That's true. So, that's where at the commission, you folks can look at that as proposals, right, and hiring,like a consultant to look at those options right? Because our island is still young. It's not like Oahu,like how they're doing things now then have to do condemnations, and so forth. Page 5 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 You know,the way they're doing everything. At least we have a chance,right? Because our rural areas are still rural,but then they need the transportation, right, a faster transportation. Instead of waiting in traffic for like an hour or so, especially, down in Paradise Park or Puna side,right? If you don't leave by a certain time;you're stuck in traffic. So,just something that maybe you can come up with in discussion when you get on the commission. But thank you very much for volunteering, and I'll yield at this time. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you, Council Member Onishi. Council Member Villegas. MS. VILLEGAS: Yes, very quickly. Aloha,Zee, it's great to see you. I was super excited to see your name on this list today. And I have every faith that you will lean into this position of leadership and participation with bold courage, innovative thoughts and ideas. And the willingness and the capacity to sometimes gently, sometimes with necessary tenacity; drill down and get those answers. I also have trust in your ability to utilize intuitive discernment and just recognize the difference between opportunities and what could accidentally as an island, so now it's down the river, which for projects or policies or you know, opportunities that aren't in alignment with the value system, the resources, or the capacity for the longevity of our island and service to our community. So, thank you so much for being here today and always being that voice for— really, I can't think of a group that you're not willing to lean up and speak up and serve. So, thank you, I yield. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you, Council Member Villegas. Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you, Chair. Mahalo for being here today. Appreciate the recommendation. What is your understanding of the Mass Transportation Master Plan? MS. ZAIDOFF: I'm sorry, can you repeat the question, Council Member? MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Am I not clear? Am I not loud enough for you? You want me to speak up or you didn't hear me? MS. ZAIDOFF: No, I can hear you now. I think my speaker was a little low, sorry, about that. Page 6 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDEk: What is your understanding of the Mass Transit Master Plan? MS. ZAIDOFF: I don't have a great understanding of the Master Plan. I've read it or I've skimmed through it. I know that we were trying to get more green vehicles and buses from the environmental perspective. I know that we just bought a whole bunch of new buses. I know that there's a shortage of the vehicles that are available. I know that the plan is to get more availability in all the areas in the rural areas. I know at the current moment, the buses are free. Mass transportation right now on the island is completely free. I know that there is some issues around if there would be costs again and how the busses aren't even fitted for the ability to take payment yet. I have not delved into the plan in analytical ways yet. But I look forward to doing so. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: From what you said it sounds like you haven't read the plan. What's your understanding of our Multimodal Transportation Plan? MS. ZAIDOFF: That is not a plan I have looked at yet. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay,that's concerning. How do we fund the Mass Transit Agency currently? MS. ZAIDOFF: If you'd like to share information with me, Council Member,I would love to hear it. I'd love to engage with conversation. I'm not understanding the questions that you're asking right now. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: How do we fund the Mass Transit Agency, and the buses, and the routes, and our contracts with Robert's? How do we fund all those things currently in our County budget? MS. ZAIDOFF: I am assuming that everything is currently funded through general tax the way everything else is funded on the island. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: County tax or State tax. MS. ZAIDOFF: I'm assuming it's County's since public transportation is County. But there may be some funding that comes in from the State Department of Transportation as well. I am unsure. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay,that's also concerning. Page 7 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 CHR. KAGIWADA: Council Member, I'm just wondering, do you have specific questions related to being on the commission? You're talking about budgeting and things like that,that a prospective commissioner generally wouldn't have knowledge about. Do you have a specific something about the way we're doing it now versus the way you would like to see it done? MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Chair,if you don't follow the questions I'm asking, then I'm concerned about you as well. Ms. Zaidoff, from what I've heard so far, you don't understand the funding sources for our Mass Transportation Agency; you haven't read the Multimodal Transportation Plan. From your answers regarding our Mass Transportation Plan,you haven't read that either. You've nailed a few of the things that Mass Transit is doing currently. I appreciate that. That shows some knowledge about the agency. But for someone who wants to be on the Transportation Commission and be a commissioner and make decisions for the entire island, I have my concerns. Thank you. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you, Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder. Alright. Oh, thank you for joining us, Council Member Kierkiewicz,the floor is yours. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: I apologize for my delayed arrival. I was helping with some water hauling to Ka`u for our ranchers. Zee, it's so nice to see you. I do want to just kind of level expectations for the public. When members of the public are nominated to serve on boards and commissions,there's no requirement to have read all the plans or to have certain degrees. I think there is a genuine desire and willingness to serve and to show up for meetings that we have every month. The Administration should be preparing each of these nominees and letting them know what sort of plans need to be read over the time of their service on the board or commission. But I don't think there's any expectations to go through hundreds of pages of documents before you even get started. What I know about you,Zee, is you are someone that, as Council Member Villegas said, "Very tenacious." You are someone that is a fighter and an advocate. You do your research, and I do know that if given the opportunity to serve, you will go through all of those documents and be strong voice for folks that need access to transportation services, so they can get to essential services like jobs, and recreation, and you know, education. So,I appreciate you putting your name forward. I am in full support of your nomination. And I do appreciate the Administration for really taking the time to find individuals that have such a heart and passion for serving community. Thank you, I yield. Page 8 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you. Seeing no other lights, appreciate your comments there, Council Member Kierkiewicz. Yes,leveling the playing field, we don't expect our volunteers to come with all this. Once you're confirmed and start digging in,then you'll have access to some of this information. Alright, with no further ado, all those in favor of closing file on Communication 1003 and sending a favorable nomination of Zahava"Zee" Zaidoff for the Transportation Commission to the full Council,please say, "aye." Any opposed? Vote on Comm. 1003: The motion to recommend confirmation of the nomination of (Approved) Ms. Zahava Zaidoff to the Transportation Commission was carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Galimba,Hustace, Inaba, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Kagiwada—8. Noes: Committee Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder— 1. Absent: None. Excused: None. Mr. Alameda provided a brief narrative of the nominee's background and experience. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you, Zee, we'll talk to you later. With that, we're going to actually jump down to Communication 1051, as our • nominee is at work and needs to take a break in order to be with us. So,I want to make sure we value her time here. So,if we could please go to Communication 1051. Mr. Alameda provided a brief narrative of the nominee's background and experience. Change Order As directed by the Chair and with no object from the Council Members, of Business: the following items were taken out of order: Comm. 1051: NOMINATION OF KI JREAAHIAHI DORIAN INABA TO THE PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION COMMISSION From Mayor C. Kimo Alameda, dated August 13, 2026,requesting the Council's review and confirmation. Requires Council Confirmation by: September 26, 2026 (Section 13-4(k), Hawai`i County Charter) Page 9 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 . Motion to Approve: Mr. Hustace moved to recommend confirmation of the nomination of Ms. Kiliheaahiahi Dorian Inaba to the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission. Seconded by Ms. Kierkiewicz. CHR. KAGIWADA: Before we get started, I'm going to go ahead and turn it over to Council Member Inaba. MR. INABA: Thank you, Chair. I will be recusing myself from this matter, as Ms. Inaba is an immediate family member. So, I'll be leaving the room at this time. Thank-you. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you, Council Member. And with that, Mr. Alameda, will you please introduce the Mayor's nominee. (Note: At this time,Executive Assistant to the Mayor Micah Alameda and the nominee came forward to address the members of the committee.) MR. ALAMEDA: Mahalo nui,Madame Chair. It is my privilege to introduce Communication 1051, nominating Kiliheaahiahi"Kili"Dorian Inaba to the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission (PONC)representing Council District 8. If confirmed,Ms. Inaba will serve a term that expires on December 31, 2030. It's been a pleasure getting to know Ms. Inaba throughout this process. She comes to us with over 30 years residency on Hawai`i Island. She's a proud mother. She's a daughter of Kona. She has degrees from the University of Hawai`i, West OWq from the HENTE i Community College; and her MICT (Master of Information and Communication Technology) and associate's in nursing where she was a former firefighter; a former paramedic with the Hawai`i Fire Department. Today she is an RN (Registered Nurse) at the Kona Community Hospital where she is currently taking a break. We know that she will come forward to this role with the utmost seriousness, and commitment, and loyalty to the mission,Madame Chair. Without further ado, we turn it back to you. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you so much,Mr. Alameda. Ms. Inaba,would you like to say a few words to the Committee? Page 10 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 MS. INABA: Good morning. Thank you, Council Member Kagiwada,for giving me this time. Especially,because I'm at work right now in the ER (Emergency Room) and I appreciate calling me up. But I didn't want it to be an issue for anyone. So, mahalo. Thank you, Council Members for the opportunity to be here today and to serve in this capacity. I think,you know, and maybe you guys are going to ask me,but I'll just say it, my kuleana is the word for this job for what you guys do. But I see this kuleana as not just a responsibility,but as a privilege to be able to serve in this capacity; to work with other community members on Hawai`i Island and who see the value of places. As all land here is so valuable and so interconnected. But culturally, significant places as well as lands that are significant in regards to natural resources. We've seen so much change and you know, I'm grateful for the change. But also,remembering where we all come from. So, I think, I would be so honored and grateful to be able to serve in this capacity of making decisions and working with people who decide on the lands that should be perpetuated for generations to come for our keiki and for our • kupuna alike. So,yes,mahalo. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you,Ms. Inaba. With that, I'm going to turn it over the committee for comments or questions. Council Member Villegas. MS. VILLEGAS: Aloha. Thank you for being here. My heart is warm to know, Kili,that you are in our Emergency Room as well. And I'm very grateful for your willingness to lean and serve also in this capacity. As a woman,born and raised on the Big Island with cultural and lineal legacy; stewardship and honoring past, present, and future. I am confident that you will serve in this role with integrity, with discernment, and with an insight that not everyone gets to have. I think it comes to you innately in your roles of service and your courage, having served with our Fire Department as well; and now,in the Emergency Room. You have the capacity to lean in in times of crisis and serve our community on the front lines as a First Responder. And so, I'm hopeful that this PONC role will be much mellower for you. But thank you for your willingness to lean in and serve as a volunteer on the PONC commission. I'll be in full support of your nomination today. I yield. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you, Council Member Villegas. Anybody else? Council Member Kierkiewicz. Page 11 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Aloha, Kili, nice to see you on the Zoom screen. I've known Kili for over a decade now. She and my partner were in the same firefighter cohort. And I was so incredibly inspired and impressed by her,just Mana Wahine essence and is somebody that is rooted here; who's raising a family here; who's contributing to community in so many ways. I know that she's going to bring a wealth of prospective and capacity to the commission. So, thank you so much for making time to take on this important kuleana. In full support of your nomination. Thank you, Chair. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you, Council Member Kierkiewicz. Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you very much, Chair. Mahalo for being here today, Kili. As Ms. Villegas said, it's amazing that you are both in our Emergency Room and stepping up to the PONC commission. I am completely in favor or your nomination because I understand that your understanding of what needs to be perpetuated for our future generations is transparent, and you understand completely the importance of preserving those lands. A beautiful part of this too is, your understanding of the system through your own ohana and what it takes on all different levels through Government, and Public, and to the commission itself to work to get both properties onto the list as well as funded to be able to purchase properties on a list and to get them prioritized as such and approved by the commission; and in following all the different changes that have occurred to the PONC commission, legislatively. Your ability in your ohana to grasp that full situation and full understanding of what's going on should put you above and beyond the rest; and help us make good decisions going into the future to preserve what's important for our keiki and for our 'aim,thank you. And thank you to the Administration for bringing forward such a valuable person. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you. Council Member Kimball. MS. KIIVIBALL: Thank you. At the risk of ruffling feathers, I'm not going to support this nomination,just in terms of consistency with the position that I've taken previously, which I have discomfort around appointment a family member of a Council Member when decisions from the commission that they serve on, will also come before this board. So, I'm going to maintain that position. That is not to say, you're not an excellent individual and that you wouldn't make an excellent contribution to the PONC. So,please understand that Page 12 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 position comes really from a personal ethical position, that it isn't appropriate. So,thank you. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you, Council Member Kimball. Anybody else? Alright with no one further, thank you so much for stepping up and being willing to put in the time for a volunteer position such as this. We'll go ahead and take a roll call vote,please,Mr. Clerk. Vote on Comm. 1051: The motion to recommend confirmation of the nomination (Approved) of Ms. Kiliheaahiahi Dorian Inaba to the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission was carried by the following roll call vote: Ayes: Committee Members Hustace, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder Kierkiewicz, Onishi,Villegas, and Chair Kagiwada—6. Noes: Committee Members Galimba and Kimball—2. Absent: None. Excused: Committee Member Inaba— 1. Mr. Alameda provided a brief narrative of the nominee's background and experience. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you,Ms. Inaba. We'll go on to Communication 1047 now. Return to Order The Chair directed the Committee to return to the order of business. of Business: Comm. 1047: NOMINATION OF SUNITA PRZEWLOCKI TO THE PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION COMMISSION From Mayor C. Kimo Alameda, dated August 14, 2026,requesting the Council's review and confirmation. Requires Council Confirmation by: September 27, 2026 (Section 13-4(k), Hawai`i County Charter) Motion to Approve: Mr. Hustace moved to recommend confirmation of the nomination of Ms. Sunita Przewlocki to the PONC Commission. Seconded by Ms. Villegas. CHR. KAGIWADA: With that I'll turn it over to Mr. Alameda to introduce the Mayor's nominee. Page 13 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 (Note: At this time,Executive Assistant to the Mayor Micah Alameda and the nominee came forward to address the members of the committee.) MR. ALAMEDA: Mahalo nui,Madame Chair. It is my privilege to introduce Communication 1047, nominating Sunita Przewlocki to the Public Access , Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission representing Council District 2. If confirmed,Ms. Przewlocki will serve a term that expires on December 31, 2029. I've really enjoyed getting to know Sunita over this process. She has applied in 2024 in those final months before the transition. So, as I alluded before, I'll say again,my apologies Sunita. But we are so happy that it came to fruition. She came to Hilo over 20 years ago, which she came to study at the University of Hawai`i at Hilo where she got a bachelor's in psychology. She is currently today, a real estate agent. She spends her time a lot outdoors; ocean sports. She loves to surf; she's a competitive swimmer. We're lucky that she not only adopted the lifestyle when she came here,but she's willing to step forward with the kuleana. So, without further ado, Madame Chair,back to you. Mahalo. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you, Mr. Alameda. Sunita,Ms. Przewlocki, would you please say a few words to the committee. MS. PRZEWLOCKI: Sure. Thanks for having me. Thank you for this opportunity to put myself forward. As Micah mentioned, I did apply back in 2024 to serve on this commission because I think the PONC program is like one of the crown jewels that we have here on Hawaii Island. I think it's so amazing to prioritize preserving these public spaces and opportunities for access. I love that there's a mechanism in perpetuity to continue to acquire these lands so that they can remain open and untouched. And I think that's part of the fabric of what makes the Big Island so incredible; is the vastness in these wild areas. And the opportunity to find yourself in the middle of nowhere with no other human beings around. I just can't overstate how important that is to me personally, and I think it's just an incredible opportunity to maintain that legacy for future generations. We have three girls that were all born and raised here, and we've spent a lot of time outdoors as a family. We're all water people, and • ocean access is incredibly important; hiking access; forest access. So,it would be a real honor to participate in continuing that legacy moving forward. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you so much, Sunita. Questions or comments from the committee,please. Council Member Onishi: Page 14 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 MR. ONISHI: Thank you, Madame Chair. You know, I just wanted to mention that, you know, our Big Island is small. So,people who step up to volunteer, I mean, they're relatives or if they're great friends, I mean,this is the Big Island, right,these are our families. So, we should appreciate it when they want to step up and volunteer and do this community service. And nothing to the Administration. I mean, they're trying their best too,right? And there's just small numbers,right? I mean, not everybody is jumping up and saying,I want to volunteer. So, we've got to see how this whole situation is, and remember again,that you know, we're born and raised here, we're locals right? And so, we're going to have family; we're going to have extended family. So, I think what we've got to do is accept and appreciate that they're all stepping up and volunteering. So,I wanted to just say that. I'll yield now,thank you. CHR. KAGIWADA: Okay,thank you. MR. ALAMEDA: Appreciate that, Council Member. I think that's awesome. I'll just say, she is the partner of Representative Matthias Kusch. And I wasn't going to say it,because we should be part of that. You know,like his partner is stepping up to serve on an island that she loves, that her children love, that they love that we all love. And thank you for mentioning that Council Member. I think that is very important for us to always keep in perspective. Thank you. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you, with that we'll move on to Council Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder. MR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you for saying that Mr. Alameda. That is important to note. And while we may be one big happy shiny ohana here on Hawai`i Island, sometimes we are not. That's just the way that it works politically and socially. And there are different things going on at all times. It is important to note when there are connections amongst commissions, and representatives, or Council Members. And it is important to note that because decisions are being made,both in the public eye and out of the public eye. And that's through the importance of understanding connections and family, and predisposed decision making comes into question. That's where government gets questioned a lot, is on the transparency of what we do and where we do it. So,I appreciate the comments by both the Administration and Mr. Onishi. But it is very important for government to be absolutely transparent in what it does. Thank you. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you. Just a comment before I go to Council Member Hustace here. Just for the public, the County Council does operate under the Sunshine Law and we follow the rules under the Sunshine Law. We do not make decisions that are not in the public eye. I just want to be very clear about that. Thank you. Council Member Hustace. Page 15 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 MR. HUSTACE: Thank you, Chair. Back to Ms. Przewlocki, I really appreciate Sunita, your engagement and involvement in community. Thank you for your willingness to step forward and serve on this commission and the opportunity. I know you're involved in community in a lot of different aspects. So, I think your perspective of land use and also preserving those spaces could bring a lot to the commission as well. So,thank you for your engagement, appreciate you. Aloha, CHR. KAGIWADA: Alright, seeing no other lights,thank you so much for stepping up, Sunita. I know this is something that's near and dear to your heart and appreciate what you bring, I know you're a very thoughtful,intelligent wahine and will not disappoint as far as being prepared and involved in these discussions. So, thank you for stepping up. I wholeheartedly support your nomination. With that, can we please vote on closing file on Communication 1047. All those in favor please say, "aye."Any opposed? Vote on Comm. 1047: The motion to recommend confirmation of the nomination of (Approved) Ms. Sunita Przewlocki to the PONC Commission was carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Galimba,Hustace, Inaba, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Kagiwada—8. Noes: Committee Member Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder— 1. Absent: None. Excused: None. Mr. Alameda provided a brief narrative of the nominee's background and experience. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you so much. We're going to move on to Communication 1049,please. Comm. 1049: NOMINATION OF JAYSSA ASUNCION-GRACE TO THE GAME MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMISSION From Mayor C. Kimo Alameda, dated August 13, 2026,requesting the Council's review and confirmation. Requires Council • Confirmation by: September 26, 2026 (Section 13-4(k), 'Hawai`i County Charter) Page 16 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 (Note: At this time, Executive Assistant to the Mayor Micah Alameda and the.nominee came forward to address the members of the committee.) Vote on Comm. 1049: Ms. Galimba moved to recommend confirmation of the nomination (Approved) of Ms. Jayssa Asuncion-Grace to the Game Management Advisory Commission. Seconded by Mr. Onishi and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Galimba, Hustace, Inaba, • Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Kagiwada—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Mr. Alameda provided a brief narrative of the nominee's background and experience. Committee Members spoke in favor of the appointment. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you so much for being here and for stepping up. Alright. With that, we have Communication 1050. Comm. 1050: NOMINATION OF ROBERT A. CAMARA TO THE HAWAI`I COUNTY CULTURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION From Mayor C. Kimo Alameda, dated August 13, 2026,requesting the Council's review and confirmation. (Note: At this time,Executive Assistant to the Mayor Micah Alameda and the nominee came forward to address the members of the committee.) Vote on Comm. 1050: Ms. Kierkiewicz moved to recommend confirmation of the nomination (Approved) of Mr. Robert Camara to the Hawai`i County Cultural Resources Commission. Seconded by Ms. Galimba and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Galimba,Hustace, Inaba, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi,Villegas, and Chair Kagiwada—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Mr. Alameda provided a brief narrative of the nominee's background and experience. Committee Members spoke in favor of the appointment. Page 17 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you so much for being here,Mr. Camara. We're going to go to Communication 1052. Comm. 1052: NOMINATION OF PORSCHE HA`O TO THE BOARD OF APPEALS From Mayor C. Kimo Alameda, dated August 13, 2026, requesting the Council's review and confirmation. Requires Council Confirmation By: September 26, 2026 (Section 13-4(k), • Hawai`i County Charter) (Note: Comm. 1052.1 from Mayor C. Kimo Alameda, dated August 26, 2026, transmitting a correction to the term expiration date was circulated.) (Note: At this time,Executive Assistant to the Mayor Micah Alameda and the nominee came forward to address the members of the committee.) Vote on Comm. 1052: Mr. Inaba moved to recommend confirmation of the nomination (Approved) of Ms. Porsche Ha`o to the Board of Appeals. Seconded by Mr. Hustace and carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Committee Members Galimba,Hustace, Inaba, Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi,Villegas, and Chair Kagiwada—9. Noes: None. Absent: None. Excused: None. Mr. Alameda provided a brief narrative of the nominee's background and experience. Committee Members spoke in favor of the appointment. CHR. KAGIWADA: Thank you so much,Ms. Ha`o. And we are going to go to the final item on our agenda. I do have an amendment for this item, so,I would like to pass the chair to my Vice Chair, Council Member Kaneali`i- Kleinfelder for this last item. Relinquish Chair: At this time, the Chair relinquished the Chair to Vice Chair Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder. ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you. Please let the record reflect that I have assumed the Chair at 10:10 a.m. ORDER OF The Acting Chair directed the Committee to proceed to the next order of RESOLUTIONS: business, Order of Resolutions. Page 18 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 Res. 664-26: APPROVES THE HAWAI`I COUNTY COUNCIL LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS AND PRIORITIES TO BE CONSIDERED FOR INCLUSION IN THE 2027 HAWAI`I STATE ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES LEGISLATIVE PACKAGE Includes proposals prohibiting the capture and sale of aquatic life for commercial aquarium purposes, allowing counties to request a state land use boundary amendment from agricultural to rural districts for small parcels,requiring denitrification in individual wastewater systems, extending the county surcharge of general excise tax until 2045, and updating eligible criteria for housing assistance applicants to allocate a percentage of housing units to be used by State or County employees under chapter 201H; and seven policy priorities relating to: (1) herbicide usage on public property; (2) solar system installation on public property and renewable energy generation; (3) watershed management,riparian areas, and flood control; (4) mental and behavioral health resources; (5) economic development and diversification; (6) wastewater infrastructure and cesspool conversion; and (7) implementation of safe routes to school programs. Reference: Comm. 1048 Intr. by: Council Member Kimball (Note: Comm. 1048.1 from Council Member Kagiwada, dated August 26, 2026, transmitting proposed amendments to Res. 664-26 was circulated.) Motion to Approve: Ms. Kimball moved to recommend adoption of Res. 664-26. Seconded by Ms. Kagiwada. ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Council Member Kimball. MS. KIMBALL: Thank you. This is the second step in the process of creating our Legislative package for the Hawaii State Association of Counties (HSAC). The first step was our conversation we had a couple months ago. Hopefully, I've faithfully captured everybody's recommendations for inclusion in the package. I did go general with the priorities in order to capture more legislation as it goes through. Because of the delayed hearing due to the hurricane, we are a little bit under the gun here in terms of moving this forward. So, if there are further amendments that folks wish to make to this,I ask that we do move it to Council and make those amendments there,just so we stay on our legislative timeline. Just one final reminder with respect to the priorities here, that allows us to • discuss those and submit testimony as a body within the Sunshine Law amendment we made to that a couple of years ago. So, ask for everybody's support moving this forward to Council. Thank you. Page 19 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you. Council Member Kagiwada. Motion to Amend: Ms. Kagiwada moved to amend Res. 664-26 with the contents of Comm. 1048.1. Seconded by Ms. Galimba. MS. KAGIWADA: Thank you so much. Just wanted to add back a few of • these that we had on previous years, and then one additional item under Priorities. So, adding back a draft bill to allow counties to regulate the sale of tobacco products. This is usually informally called the preemption bill. Last year, I believe the City and County of Honolulu put this bill forward as a priority for HSAC. I was also interested very much in that as well. As I've been working with many of our local health and youth organizations here who understand that when our County had the ability to do these regulations, we had much stronger tobacco regulations. And since it has been taken away and only being regulated by the State, we have not been allowed to do that for our people and our youth, especially. So, we would like to get that back and hope that HSAC can be a part of advocating for that. Under Priorities which are kind of general priorities that HSAC can look at to see what bills may be put forward this year, I added back legislation relating to increasing funds for emergency preparedness, evacuation routes, notification systems, and community level emergency planning. We had this on last year, and I feel like it's incredibly important once again that we continue to look at that as something that HSAC can advocate for. Also, adding back legislation relating to responsible game management of wild ungulates. I mentioned that a little bit when we were speaking with our nominee for GMAC (Game Management Commission),but obviously,people here understand that we need support at the State level for this issue. It's not really something the County can do on our own. Lastly, I added a piece about legislation related to increasing wages. This is just a very broad statement. Obviously,HSAC will look at any bills that come up that might have to do with that. But I think everybody's also aware that people are really struggling right now as far as just making ends meet, affordability, and paying their bills. So,those are the ones that I'm asking to add back. Happy to take questions; love to hear input from people. ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you, Council Member Kagiwada. Any questions regarding the amendment? I do have one just to the maker. From my recollection, Council Member(Sue)Lee Loy passed a bill that basically, had the preemption language built into it. Did we not pass that for our County Code already? And I believe the State passed some kind of measure? No,they did not? Page 20 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 MS. KAGIWADA: They didn't address the preemption issue. ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay,interesting. That's all my questions. Council Member Inaba. MR. INABA: Yes, sorry, Council Member Kagiwada, can you just clarify? So, Number 2 in your amendment. Numbers 8, 9, and 10 will be added to the • "Whereas" clause. Those legislative priorities were submitted directly to HSAC? MS. KAGIWADA: No, so, I'm asking them to be added here to our recommendations to HSAC from our County is what they would consider. My understanding, and Council Member Kimball can correct me if I'm wrong, is that HSAC will take basically, resolutions like this from each county; look at them and then decide what they will include in their packet. So,it's a recommendation to HSAC to discuss including these items. MR. INABA: Thank you. MS. KIMBALL: Confirming. MS. KAGIWADA: Alright. ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay,thank you. Then Council Member Kimball,if I remember right, we are to give priorities but also have attached copies of the bill to go to HSAC, or this is just priorities for Hawai`i County? MS. KIMBALL: So, the first section,the first"Whereas" section includes the bills. And those are attached as actual copies; you'll see it in the one drive. The priorities do not require an actual bill to be submitted for them. They're basically, general priority areas that we will then track if any bills are relevant to that subject matter and testify in support as HSAC. ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay, thank you. And then, Council Member Kagiwada, the last one,Number 10, "Legislation related to increasing wages." Could you please explain or expand upon it a little bit for me? MS. KAGIWADA: We had people calling our office just really trying their best to support their families. People have gone and got degrees; people that are looking for positions that can actually pay all their bills and just really struggling, as well as people in very entry-level positions. So,it's kind of broad,but we think there may be bills that we'll want to support going forward. Page 21 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: So, then specifically, County wages you're speaking to? MS. KAGIWADA: This is for State. ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Okay, thank you. Council Member Kierkiewicz. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: Thank you, Chair. Just wanted to comment on the evolution of this process. I know that when many of us first joined the Council, and these resolutions would be put forward,HSAC was stuck in advocating for just those specific bills. And over time,it seems that we've been able to do a bit more because of enabling resolutions. So, in addition to supporting bills included in this package, there are priorities that provide HSAC flexibility to do a letter of support and provide advocacy. I guess one clarifying question I have, Council Member Kimball, is for the bills that are attached to the package,if there are similar bills that are being introduced,because there are often a number of bill vehicles that are all kind of saying the same,but a little bit different,but get to the same sort of destination, are you folks precluded from advocating for those measures as well. I think it's helpful to get clarification for the record,thank you. MS. KIlVIBALL: Yes,thank you for that. There are often bills that are either identical or very similar in terms of what they aim to achieve. And our bylaws allow us to basically adopt support of those identical vehicles if it's not the bill that's in the package that gets supported. MS. KIERKIEWICZ: That's really fantastic. Thank you. I know that there's so much work that is involved on your end for all of the Council Members that are involved to put together these packages; and then stay on it in the time of the legislative session when things are just really swirling around very quickly. So, thank you for your advocacy. ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you. Council Member Onishi. MR. ONISHI: Thank you, Chair. So, on the amendment,Number 10, again. So, you're talking about the minimum wage? MS. KAGIWADA: Not necessarily. It's just a very broad category that we can look at if the State puts forward legislation around,basically, increasing wages for folks. We can look at that at HSAC and see if we can support. Page 22 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 MR. ONISHI: Okay, I mean,it's basically, I guess it would come down to the minimum wage, right? • MS. KAGIWADA: That's the most primary way that the State deals with it. MR. ONISHI: Why isn't there something about reducing the cost of living? Because we increase the minimum wages, the companies also need to raise their prices to cover that minimum wage. So,to me,I look at it when they have this minimum wage increase every so often. It's a wash,right? Because then now;like someone working at Burger King, they might make now, $18.00; I think at the end of January,they'll have an increase per hour. Now Burger King will have to increase their costs because now they've got to spend more money in expenses. So,it becomes a wash. So, I feel that instead of maybe doing a minimum increase in wages,it's looking at how we reduce the. cost of living for everyone. MS. KAGIWADA: I think that's a great idea. If you want to put forward another amendment, I think it'll be wonderful. MR. ONISHI: I'm just saying that,because you put minimum. MS. KAGIWADA: I didn't put minimum wage. MR. ONISHI: But you put increase of wages, that maybe you got to look at the other side too. MS. KAGIWADA: Yeah, great idea. I should add it. ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you very much. Council Member Kimball. MS. KIN/BALL: Just two quick comments. First, after this passes our Council, it goes to the HSAC Executive Committee along with the resolutions from the other four Councils we'll whittle it down. We usually try to stick to about 10 bills to introduce this part of the package. We try to have a reasonable amount of priorities,right? It's hard to track too many things and deal with the job overtime. So, this list will probably be reduced or improved in terms of description. What I will say is that we are actively looking at a couple of different tools for tracking and submitting testimony. There's quite a bit of advancement from the AI(Artificial Intelligence) angle on working on tracking and submitting Page 23 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 testimony. So, we're hopeful that HSAC will acquire some tool of some sort, and you folks will have access to that too in terms of being able to watch some of these bills. ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: It'll probably make Susan . (Caseria)pretty happy too. She wouldn't have to do it manually. Okay, so on the amendment as far as amending Resolution 664-26,with the contents of Communication 1048.1, all in favor? Any opposed? Vote on Motion to The motion to amend Res. 664-26, with the contents of Comm. 1048.1 Amend: was carried by the following voice vote: (Approved) Ayes: Committee Members Galimba,Hustace, Inaba, Kagiwada, Kimball, Kierkiewicz, Villegas, and Acting Chair Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder—8. Noes: Committee Member Onishi— 1. Absent: None. Excused: None. ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Motion carries. Back to the main motion,Resolution 664-26, as amended, Council Member Onishi. MR. ONISHI: Thank you, Chair. So, in Exhibit A,the draft to prohibit the capture and sale of aquatic plants,in the last couple days didn't DLNR (Hawai`i Department of Land and Natural Resources) have some kind of legislation or they passed some kind of rules about this already? ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Council Member Inaba. MR. INABA: Yes, the DLNR had a hearing on Friday for proposed rules,for quotas, and permitting, licensing; to reopen this. The overwhelming testimony received by the board asked them to reject those rules. So,the bill in this exhibit is again asking the Legislature to enact a law that sets out a complete statewide ban because they have failed to do that over the years. So, it's renewing that request. But at this point,the DLNR does not have an outright ban on the table. But the DLNR did as the department to go back and draft rules, and just relook at what they had provided them. MR. ONISHI: Okay, thank you. I yield. ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Thank you. Just noting, it says in the bill regarding the fish, that existing language in HRS (Hawai`i Revised Statues) says that Kole (Goldring Surgeonfish) have little or no value as food fish, which I would completely disagree with,because they're delicious. And I bet you, the previous member who came into the Game Page 24 GOEAC-41 September 1,2026 Management Advisory Commission would agree. Okay, on the motion to forward Resolution 664-26, as amended, to the Council with a favorable • recommendation, all in favor? Any opposed? Vote on Res. 664-26: The motion to recommend adoption of Res. 664-26, as amended (Draft 2) to Draft 2, was carried by the following voice vote: (Approved) Ayes: Committee Members Galimba,Hustace, Inaba, Kagiwada, Kimball, Kierkiewicz,Villegas, and Acting Chair Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder—8. Noes: Committee Member Onishi— 1. Absent: None. Excused: None. ACTING CHR. KANEALI`I-KLEINFELDER: Motion carries. I believe that brings us to the end of our agenda. Okay, seeing no further business,it is 10:28 a.m. Our next committee is the Committee on Finance, and we will start shortly. Thank you. ADJOURN- Seeing no further business, Acting Chair Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder adjourned MENT: the meeting at 10:28 a.m. Approved: c i9 12to Ms. Jenn Kagiwada, Chair (Date) Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs JK/dt Page 25