HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0001.013 2004-2006 Lincoln S. T. Ashida
210 Kuikahi Street
Hilo, Hawai' i 96720
April 15, 2005 _ _
Honorable Stacy Higa
Chair, Hawaii County Council
County of Hawaii
25 Aupuni St. '
Hilo, HI 96720
Dear Chairman Higa and Council Members:
RE: Confirmation of William E. Smith
This is an unsolicited letter of support for the confirmation of William E.
Smith, Esq., as Hawaii County's new Deputy County Clerk.
I first met Bill in 1992, as a member of a panel who recommended his hire
as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for our County. I worked with Bill for over eight
years, prior to my appointment as Corporation Counsel. I also have a good
social relationship with Bill, and feel qualified to give a candid assessment of his
character and work ethic.
The following are some of Bill's best qualities:
• Bill is an upstanding, ethical, and principled human being. Without
exception, Bill always does what is right. Whether it is deciding to bring
felony charges against a suspect, advising the police, or in interpersonal
office relationships, Bill demonstrates an unwavering commitment to
integrity.
• Bill is a hard worker. He is the first one in the office in the morning (not to
mention he drives in from Volcano, where he lives). He demands those
around him to subscribe to this work ethic to get the job done.
Bill is always prepared. Bill is a cautious researcher, prodigious reader,
and thorough legal analyst. As a judge, he demanded the attorneys who
appeared before him to be prepared. He demands and expects no less of
himself, whether he is walking into a courtroom, or a Council room.
• You can talk to Bill. Despite his lauded and distinguished employment
history, Bill remains a humble individual. He is cordial and sincere. He is
someone you are proud to call a friend.
Comm. No.
Ref. To: Praserf~~ '
Ref. Uate~~
Honorable Stacy Higa
April 15, 2005
Page 2
No doubt Bill will face challenges if confirmed as the Deputy County Clerk.
In addition to learning new areas of law, he will be entrusted the care of the
Elections Office and their staff. Although no one can ever guarantee success,
with Bill, you can guarantee that the best candidate has been given the best shot
at success.
For the above reasons, I would unqualifiedly recommend the confirmation
of William E. Smith as Deputy County Clerk for the County of Hawaii. Bill
possesses the finest professional and personal qualities most admired by
members of our profession.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide this input.
Very truly yours,
l~1 Y V" ~
Lincoln S. T. Ashida
c: Honorable Harry Kim, Mayor
L: Letter re WES 4-8-05/LSA