HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0014.003 2004-2006
Harry I{w Llacoln S.T. Ashlda
Mayor ;i Cngxiratinn Counsel
Gerald Takase
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OFFICE OF THE CORPORATION COUNSEL
IOI Aupuni Street, Suite 325 • Hito, Hawaii 967244262 • (808) 961-8251 • FAX (808) 961-6622
December 16, 2004
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Council Chairman Gary Safarik
and Councilmembers
Hawaii County Council
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, Hawaii 96720 ,
Dear Chairman Safarik and Councilmembers:
Re: Confirmation of Lincoln S.T Ashida as Corooration Counsel
Although I am in a highly conflicted position as I write to you, I think I also sit in a very
unique position to comment on Mr. Lincoln Ashida's reconfirmation as the Corporation Counsel.
It is a unique position because I have known Lincoln probably longer than anyone in this
office--since his days as a law clerk in the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney. I have worked
with him and remained his confidant over the past four years as his assistant in the Office of the
Corporation Counsel. Lincoln is a true homegrown boy raised in the plantation community of
Papa`ikou, which he proudly proclaims.
I have been with the Office of the Corporation Counsel for approximately 18 years and
have seen it through many administrations. While there have been highs and lows with each
administration, it is my impression that the current office directed by Lincoln is at an all-time
high.
Lincoln has been able to assemble a team of highly qualified individuals who have
worked together to become a very formidable law office.
While the office's mission statement paraphrased identifies the office as ordinary people
doing extraordinary deeds, that really over simplifies what has happened under Lincoln's tenure.
Hawai `i Counry is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer 1 y • 3
Comm. No.
Ref. To: Preseated G
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Council Chairman Gary Safarik
and Councilmembers
Page -2-
December 16, 2004
Lincoln has stressed the idea of teamwork, he has gone out and recruited individuals
who, along with those that were retained, make an effective team. It has really helped in
bringing harmony among the legal staff and increased its effectiveness in providing legal support
to the County.
This has translated into positive results for the County. The counseling and drafting
section is more involved in all aspects of County decision-making by County officials. They
have also embarked on major projects which include: 1) Sunshine Law training; 2) boards and
commissions training; 3) redrafting of standazdized contracts; and 4) risk management.
The litigation division has also enjoyed numerous successes in the last four years and has
saved the County hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages and litigation costs. These
successes were recently recognized with division head Joe Kamelamela being named supervisor
of the year for the County of Hawaii.
It would behoove this Council to continue this trend. The Office of the Corporation
Counsel, under the leadership of Lincoln Ashida, can continue to do great things for this County.
Though we stress teamwork, all great teams need a great leader and Lincoln Ashida is that
leader. I wholeheartedly ask for your support for his reconfirmation.
Sincerely,
LD TAKASE
Assistant Corporation Counsel
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