HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 1056.010 2006-2008
TESTIMONY IN SUPPORT: Hawaii County Council Bill for Ordinance -1" Reading: Bill 257 -
March 25, 2008 - by Leilani Bronson-Crelly, Co-Pres. League of Women Voters Hawaii County
Aloha Honorable Members of the Hawaii County Council. My name is Leilani
Bronson-Crelly, and as the Co-President of the League of Women Voters Hawaii County, I
am here today to ask your support for the passing of First Reading of Bill 257, which initiates
a Charter amendment to Article XI, relating to Initiative and Referendum. While I reside in
Councilmember Emily Naeole's District 5, my address, for the record is: 111 E Puainako
Street, Ste. 585, PMB 169, Hilo, HI 96720.
For the past year, a County League of Women Voters' committee has worked hard,
doing many hours of research and interviews to develop a revision of Article XI of our County
Charter. After modification and approval by the entire League Board, the document along
with amendments is before you today for first reading. A vital intent of this work was to clarify
procedures for the use of the powers of initiative and referendum so that both petitioners and
the County Clerk's office would be clear on the process from the outset of any petition drive.
The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages
informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major
public issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.
Bill 257 with its revisions is successful in its focus to clarify and make more user-
friendly the initiative and referendum process for both the public as well as elections
administrators.
This proposed bill provides users with working knowledge of the steps involved in this
otherwise arduous process laying out the time line and requirements in a chronological order.
In addition, the elections division's duties are also better spelled out including in areas such
as the forms and sufficiency section and the signature verification criteria.
The format of the proposed bill makes it easier for both petitioners and the clerk's
election staff to follow in logical order what is expected of them each step of the way as if it
were a flow chart. This is important because ambiguity is eliminated on how to proceed with
introducing legislation before the Council and eventually the voting public.
Also with me today in support of this bill are the following League members: Sue
Irvine, Marian Wilkins and Debbie Hecht who will each provide expanding testimony on the
matter.
Mahalo for considering the support of Bill No. 257 for first reading and for being a part
of championing government processes that are straightforward, transparent and
empowering, which ultimately serves the interests of the people of Hawaii County.
Gomm. No. 11061 ' 0 ,
Ref. Toe
Ref. Date ,2-&.'9"