HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0857.000 2002-2004
AARON S. Y. CHLJNG Tel: (808) 961-8396
Councilmember~-°°•• Fax: (808) 961-8912
COUNTY COUNCIL -
County ofHawai'i t_-
Hawai'i County Building
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
November 10, 2004
MEMORANDUM
TO: James Y. Arakaki, Chair, and Council Members
FROM: Aaron S. Y. Chung e 12
SUBJECT: Bill for an Ordinance to Initiate a Charter Amendment Relating to the
Composition and Terms of County Council Members
Attached please find a bill to initiate a charter amendment to increase the eligibility of Council
members to hold office for six consecutive terms, or a maximum of 12 years.
My purpose in submitting this bill is to address the need for Council service to extend through
the legislative life of such issues as the General Plan, revised every ten years, and such concerns
as affordable housing, which tend to re-emerge in cycles. I believe strongly that we should at
least afford the voters the opportunity to elect experienced legislators to see us through issues
and problems that extend for the better part of a generation.
In all practical respects, the voters may exercise term limits every two years. Incumbents who
fail to pass muster with the voters may be replaced by challengers in any election. Those voters,
however, who find merit in a proven, capable Council member should also enjoy greater freedom
to exercise choice.
Lest there be any doubt, this bill has been drafted in a manner that absolutely precludes any
current council member from holding office longer than six consecutive terms, beginning with
members elected in 1994 and thereafter.
It is my hope that this measure affirms the principle of term limits while allowing for a more
generous threshold for committed and skillful legislators to contribute to the public life of our
community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about this proposal.
Thank you.
AC/rf
Attachment Q
g~ 371 7 Comm. No. v
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