HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0275.001 2008-2010
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Murashige, Laura F4wwn
From: susan dursin [sgd8@hawaiiantel.net]
Sent: Monday, April 20, 2009 4:50 PM 1009 PPR 21 RM 8 23
To: Council Testimony 001U ,
Subject: Fw: Resolution 120-09 COU i' F ['IAIPJ +I[
To: Council Chair J Yoshimoto and Council Members:
Please note that the resolution number in this testimony should be 120-09; we
mixed up the numbers!
Mahalo,
Sue Dursin and Leilani Bronson-Crelly
Original Message
From: susan dursin
To: Council Testimony
Sent: Monday, April 20, 2009 12:40 PM
Subject: Resolution 106-09
Dear Council Chair Yoshimoto and Council Members:
We are strongly opposed to Resolution 106-09, which changes the rules on bills
and resolutions. Apparently, elements of this council are concerned that they cannot
push legislation through quickly. It would seem that there are means in place for
moving amended legislation without delay. Council already has latitude to pass on
a piece of proposed legislation that has clerical or typographical errors. Moreover, the
Council can, by super majority, pass proposed legislation that is truly urgent. Finally,
emergency ordinances may be passed to deal with immediate threats to life, health
or property.
Changing the rule for all amended bills and resolutions ignores the public's right to
know and respond. It is also unfair to council members who are not present and do not
have input on the amendments. Moreover, many amendments, although they do not
change the intent of the resolution or bill, have considerable consequences. Such action
should not be rushed. Even council members need time to evaluate the results of new
language.
An Office of Information Practices attorney has said that state law requires advance
notice of agenda items. "The board [council] is supposed to give public notice of what's
going to be decided." Eliminating adequate notice and time for consideration of amend-
ments seems to put this resolution squarely outside defined parameters.
Please vote against Resolution 106-09.
Thank you.
Leilani Bronson-Crelly 982-8417 leilanibc@hotmail.com
Susan Dursin 328-8514 sgd8@hawaiiantel.net
Co-presidents, Hawaii County League of Women Voters
c,
Ref. TO,
Ref. Gate APR 2---- 22-
4/21/2009