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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0313.014 2014-2016 '0.01 OS,, DENNIS "FRESH"ONISHI ,`'4,'• PHONE: (808)961-8396 �V �I''' FAX: (808)961-8912 Council Member `�..• /� . EMAIL:donishita)hawaiicount ov District 3 • • ' -w ` HAWAII COUNTY COUNCIL 25 Aupuni Street, Hilo, Hawai`i 96720 MEMORANDUM DATE: August 24, 2016 TO: Dru Mamo Kanuha, Council Chair And Members of the Hawaii County Council FROM: Aril ennis "Fresh" Onishi, Council Member SUBJECT: Minutes of the Hawaii State Association of Counties Executive Committee Meetings held on June 22 and July 8, 2016 Attached are the minutes of the Hawaii State Association of Counties Executive Committee meetings held on June 22, and July 8, 2016; and a contract proposal from Becker Communications, Inc. relating to public relations and media strategy for the 2017 State Legislative Session. Please place these items on the agenda for the next available Governmental Relations and Economic Development Committee meeting. DO/de Att. Comm. No. 3 ( 3. t 9 Ref. To: c-7 NZ-LDL Hawaii County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. Ref. Dote AUG 2 5 ZU)& M ♦isa�Y mrli Hawaii State Association of Counties (HSAC) *U • �*'' Counties of Kaua`i, Maui, Hawai`i and City & County of Honolulu www.hIcoutif1es.coin t * MINUTES HSAC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING June 22, 2016 Keauhou III, Sheraton Kona Resort 78-128 Ehukai Street Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740 CALL TO ORDER The HSAC Executive Committee was called to order by HSAC President and County of Maui Councilmember Michael Victorino at 8:35 a.m. The following members comprising a quorum were present: County of Maui: President Michael Victorino, County of Maui Councilmember County of Hawai`i: Vice President Dennis "Fresh" Onishi, County of Hawai`i Councilmember County of Kauai: Secretary Mel Rapozo, County of Kaua`i Council Chair City and County of Honolulu: Treasurer Ikaika Anderson, City and County of Honolulu Councilmember Others Present: Gladys C. Baisa, County of Maui Councilmember Riki Hokama, County of Maui Councilmember Robert Carroll, County of Maui Councilmember Danny Paleka, County of Hawaii Councilmember KipuKai Kuali`i, County of Kaua`i Councilmember Honolulu staff Lisa-Ann Kimura, Staff Attorney, Office of Council Services; Honolulu staff Brandon Mitsuda, Council Liaison, Honolulu City Council Administrative Support Services; Honolulu staff Francisco Figueiredo, Legislative Aide, Office of Councilmember Ikaika Anderson; Page 4pSEAi,TOafyy,. a g e 12 ,'x,19 �4�; June 22, 2016 (9 sA *aamF County of Maui staff Kit Zulueta, Communication Director, Office of Council Services; Kaua`i staff Aida Kawamura, Legislative Assistant, Office of Council Services President Victorino extended his appreciation to the County of Hawai`i and Vice President Onishi, Hawai`i County Councilmember, for their hard work and hosting the 2016 Annual HSAC Conference. Vice President Onishi acknowledged Hawai`i County staff members who did the hard work planning the logistics for the 2016 Annual HSAC Conference. II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Vice President Onishi moved for approval of the Agenda as circulated, seconded by Secretary Rapozo, and unanimously carried. III. MINUTES A. Minutes of the May 31, 2016 HSAC Executive Committee meeting, as submitted by the HSAC Secretary. Vice President Onishi moved for approval of the Minutes of the May 31, 2016 HSAC Executive Committee Meeting, seconded by Secretary Rapozo, and unanimously carried. IV. REPORTS A. Treasurer's Report 1. Treasurer's Report for the month of May 2016, as submitted by the HSAC Treasurer. Treasurer Anderson moved to approve the Treasurer's Report for May 2016, seconded by Vice President Onishi, and unanimously carried. B. County Reports 1. City and County of Honolulu Report. Treasurer Anderson reported that the City Council passed Bill 13, Relating to the Legislative ss�� siTE Pa g( I 3 rra °c4A. June 22, 2016 SA ) Budget, Bill 14, Relating to the Executive Operating Budget, Bill 15, Relating to the Executive Capital Budget, and Bill 18, Relating to the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) Operating Budget, and Bill 19, Relating to the HART Capital Budget, on June 1, 2016. Bill 27, which temporarily exempts ADUs (Additional Dwelling Units) from the requirement to donate land for park and playground purposes, was passed out of committee as amended. ADUs are the City's initiative to bring online additional rental units to address additional housing needs. Honolulu City Council welcomed Councilmembers visiting from Edogawa City, Japan, in the Council Chambers. Finally, Treasurer Anderson represented the Honolulu City Council in New York City on the arrival of the Hokulea. The Hokulea crew had the opportunity to request permission from the indigenous people of Manhattan who trace their lineage back to the area of Manhattan over the past 10,000 years to enter their homeland and spend some time there. Hawai`i's County Mayors, Hawai`i County Council Chair Drew Kanuha, and State Senator Kai Kahele were present at the Hokulea's welcome ceremonies. 2. County of Hawai`i Report. Vice President Onishi reported that Hawai`i County's Styrofoam Ban proposal received a 4:4 vote, thereby defeating the proposal. Several Councilmembers believed that this is a littering problem, and nationally, the United States is one of the countries that least dumps trash into the ocean. Hawai`i County Council also considered increasing Council term limits to 12 years, but the measure has been postponed. Vice President Onishi welcomed and thanked everyone for supporting the 2016 HSAC Annual Conference in Kona. 3. County of Kaua`i Report. Secretary Rapozo reported that the Council approved the County's budgets with no tax increases. The Council considered a Charter amendment relating to implementing a County-Manager form of government, but due to an Attorney General's opinion and research done by Council Services legal staff, it was determined that the County Manager would be subject to Civil Service law and thus undermine the Council's authority over this position. Therefore, the Council received and filed this proposal. After numerous meetings, the Council also rejected establishing a General Excise & Use Tax surcharge. Page I 4 F3a : June 22, 2016 ( SAS)t 4. County of Maui Report. President Victorino reported that the Council is dealing with a number of issues and approximately 16 Charter amendments, which includes a proposal for a County Manager form of government. The County has been petitioned to acquire or lease all agricultural lands for organic farming purposes, but currently, the petition does not have the required number of signatures to move forward. President Victorino stated that the Council supports diversified farming, which provides everyone who wants to farm an opportunity to do so. The Council is considering amendments to the budget to address homelessness. Under the leadership of Immediate Past President of NACo Riki Hokama, who chairs the Budget & Finance Committee, Maui County's annual budgets are also complete. The Council has been very prudent at looking at the issues and ensuring that moneys are spent appropriately and in the right places. Treasurer Anderson moved for approval of the county reports, seconded by Vice President Onishi, and unanimously carried. C. National Association of Counties (NACo) Report Vice President Onishi requested that the NACo Report be deferred until the next HSAC Executive Committee Meeting. There were no objections. Immediate Past President of NACo Riki Hokama, County of Maui Councilmember, reported that NACo will present to the membership a new format on elections of officers with respect to compression of votes. Currently NACo follows the Electoral College format. NACo is proposing to compress each vote, giving a higher dollar value to each vote, resulting in better equality for the smaller states. The key for Hawai`i is supporting the right candidates to achieve appointments and leadership considerations that Hawai`i has enjoyed over the past 30 years. Hawai`i also needs to continue its level of participation to help guarantee considerations for appointments. Councilmember Hokama noted that Hawai`i has alliances with Missouri and California. He introduced Richard Forster, President of the California State Association of Counties, and asked that members support Sister State California by attending the upcoming NACo Annual Conference in Long Beach. Councilmember Hokama also introduced a conference corporate sponsor from NACo, Dan Brady, who is now working for Splunk. „{pienss�, Page 15 4° 4y�, June 22, 2016 t9 SA It Co N-- D. Western Interstate Region (WIR) Report President Victorino noted that Council Chair Mike White, County of Maui, submitted a written report dated June 16, 2016. Vice President Onishi moved for approval of the NACo and WIR reports, seconded by Treasurer Anderson, and unanimously carried. V. NEW BUSINESS A. Communication from Hawai`i County Clerk Stewart Maeda, transmitting Resolution No. 537-16, entitled "A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE HAWAII STATE ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES FISCAL YEAR 2016-2017 PROPOSED OPERATING BUDGET,” adopted on June 3, 2016. Vice President Onishi moved to receive the communication for the record, seconded by Secretary Rapozo, and unanimously carried. B. Communication from Hawai`i County Clerk Stewart Maeda, transmitting Resolution No. 538-16, entitled "A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE HAWAII STATE ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES SLATE OF OFFICERS, NOMINEES TO THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES BOARD OF DIRECTORS, AND NOMINEES TO THE WESTERN INTERSTATE REGION BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2016-2017," adopted on June 3, 2016. Vice President Onishi moved to receive the communication for the record, seconded by Secretary Rapozo, and unanimously carried. C. Honolulu City Council Resolution 16-125, entitled "APPROVING THE PROPOSED BUDGET FOR THE HAWAII STATE ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2017," adopted on June 1, 2016. Treasurer Anderson moved to receive the communication for the record, seconded by Secretary Rapozo, and unanimously carried. D. Honolulu City Council Resolution 16-126, entitled "RELATING TO APPOINTMENTS AND NOMINATIONS FOR THE HAWAII STATE ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES," adopted on June 1, 2016. Page I 6 ,c,* t�f 4M June 22, 2016 1 _ ► 1%) Vice President Onishi moved to receive the communication for the record, seconded by Secretary Rapozo, and unanimously carried. E. Discussion and consideration of nominations to NACo Steering Committees. President Victorino noted receipt of the following NACo Steering Committee nominations: •Valerie Poindexter, Hawai`i County Council—Health •Mike White, Maui County Council—Transportation •Michael Victorino, Maui County Council — Environmental, Energy & Land Use •Don Couch, Maui County Council — Telecommunications Technology or Agricultural and Rural Affairs •Ikaika Anderson—Large Urban Caucus Presidential Appointment President Victorino invited all Councilmembers to submit their applications for nomination to a NACo Steering Committee, and noted that applications need to be submitted annually. He reported that he will be seeking reappointment to the Rural Action Caucus Committee and will serve until his term expires. Treasurer Anderson moved for approval of all nominations to the NACo Steering Committees, seconded by Vice President Onishi, and unanimously carried. VI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. State Legislature update and discussion on lobbying efforts. President Victorino noted that Scott Ishikawa from Becker Communications is present at the meeting and will provide a briefing and update during the General Membership Meeting. Vice President Onishi voiced concern that State Legislators ignored the Counties, especially regarding the transient accommodations tax. HSAC needs to focus on developing strategy to get support from the legislators, so that the counties are not forced to consider raising taxes. Page 1 7 1 June 22, 2016 ( sAir There were no objections to deferring discussion on this matter until the forthcoming General Membership Meeting scheduled for 10 a.m. VII. ANNOUNCEMENTS A. The next Executive Committee meeting is scheduled for Friday, July 8, 2016, at 10:00 a.m. on O`ahu. B. Other announcements. Vice President Onishi recognized the presence of NACo Executive Director Matt Chase. VIII. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:07 a.m. Respectfully submitted, VAttlAtgr---41 MEL RAPOZO, Secretary Hawai`i State Association of Counties -p) E (Li,,, KEK COMMUNICATIONS • NC ONLINE, OFFLINE AND !MIME WITH YOUR GOALS HAWAII STATE ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES (HSAC) Media Communications Strategy/Timeline (September 2016-May 2017) OVERARCHING POSITIONING STATEMENT: During each legislative session, the Hawaii State Association of Counties (HSAC) submits measures in hopes of improving the quality of life for residents across the state. All measures presented before this upcoming legislative session are meant to provide the following: • Maximize the effectiveness and performance of the county governments; • Enhance the fiscal health of our county-level governments, and in turn; • Benefit the taxpayers by avoiding the need for future increased taxes and user fees to make up for unnecessary deficits. GOALS: 1. Lobby the state Legislature to approve HSAC-related measures 2. Build groundswell of public support using a variety of communications tactics 3. Enable and encourage public advocacy among existing supporters 4. Attain our legislative goals as ONE entity; not allowing outside forces to divide and conquer us TOP LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES: Here are the top four priority issues as determined by HSAC: 1) TAT Distribution Between State and Counties Over the past several years, HSAC has sought a more equitable distribution of the transient accommodations tax (TAT)between the state and counties. While this past session settled on a $103 million hotel tax portion for the counties, HSAC is seeking a higher and fairer share for the four counties. From the start of the next year's legislative session to its conclusion, HSAC needs to educate and update the media and general public on why it is important the four counties receive a larger share of the TAT funding to help subsidize costs as related to tourism. HSAC needs to show how our local visitor industry rely on the counties to maintain ocean safety, beaches and parks, public safety, public transportation and the overall maintenance of our islands' natural beauty, the costs to those amenities, as well as combined costs for fire and police protection have increased dramatically. Ir Along with more widespread publicity on the issue, HSAC needs to get across two major points: • Many of the general public have difficulty differentiating between the two levels of government (state and city) and the services that each provides. • Refocus on the 2014 working study group on the TAT revenue distribution that recommends the Legislature provide a fairer 55-45 split between the state and counties. Legislature decided not revive the working group this past session to revisit the issue. 2) Sunset of Beach Liability Law The purpose of this measure is to ensure the civil liability protection for (1) government agencies regarding their duty to warn of dangers on improved public lands; and (2) county lifeguards by repealing sunset provisions. While the law has been in effect for more than a decade since the enactment of Act 170 (2002), HSAC would like to see this become permanent. 3) Changes to the Sunshine Law 4) Collective Bargaining TIMING ACTIVITY/DESCRIPTION September Legislative Deadlines: 2016 • Sept. 9—Counties send proposed legislation to HSAC for review • Sept. 25—HSAC sends draft legislative package back to counties for review (Determination and approval (deadline for final approval of packages by counties on Nov. of legislation 25) for submittal during 2017 Press Kit: session) Begin developing press kit with following items: • Fact sheet on organizational background, priorities • Key Message Points (background only) • White papers on key legislative measures • Recent HSAC press coverage • Recent HSAC press releases Community Outreach: Determine organizations/business groups/unions to reach out to regarding speaking engagements and potential support for HSAC-related legislation: • Chambers of Commerce (COC) o COC of Hawaii o Hawaii Island COC o Maui COC o Kauai COC • Major business associations on each island • Hotel industry o Hawaii Tourism Authority o Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association • Unions o HGEA o UPW o HSTA o SHOPO o Hawaii Fire Fighters Association Online Marketing and Communications: • Monthly E-Blast o Draft editorial calendar for 2017 legislative session • Website o Draft text for upcoming legislative session • Facebook o Work with four counties on social media plan October 2016 Legislative Deadlines: (Continual planning and scheduling) Editorial Solicitation: • Begin scheduling editorial board meetings for December • Confirm speaking engagements to begin in late November/early December Community Outreach: • Continue scheduling of speaking engagements prior to session Online Marketing and Communications: • Monthly E-Blast • Website • Facebook November Legislative Deadlines: 2016 • Nov. 25—Deadline for final approval of HSAC legislative package by counties Speaking engagements (late November-early January) • Following final approval of legislative agenda, begin speaking engagements with respective Chamber of Commerce, business organizations and unions on each island Editorial Solicitation: • Finalize schedule for editorial board meetings/media briefings Online Marketing and Communications: Draft article on HSAC package and how third-parties can show support during session: • Monthly E-Blast • Website • Facebook December Legislative Deadlines: 2016 (Pre- Editorial Solicitation/Scheduled Coverage: Legislative Interviews with respective neighbor island newspapers before the session Session (Early January): Coverage) • Big Island (Hawaii Tribune-Herald, West Hawaii Today) • Maui (Maui News) • Kauai (The Garden Island) Line up potential signees for letters to editor throughout session Press Release: • Finalize HSAC legislative press release for internal approval Online Marketing and Communications: • Monthly E-Blast o Draft text on upcoming HSAC-related legislation for early January release • Website • Facebook January 2017 Legislative Deadlines/Benchmarks: (Beginning of • January 18: Opening Day Legislative • January 20: Non-Administration Bill Package Cutoff Session) Suggested strategy on county-related legislation NOT submitted by HSAC: • Review all bills to identify those that would potentially affect its members and their interests • Determine HSAC's position on all bills. Stances may include support, support with reservations, support the intent, and oppose. • Draft testimony in preparation for bills' first hearings o Approved testimony for HSAC's submission will serve as the basis for language in advocate call-to-action testimony o Testimony will be revised to reflect changes as the bills move through the session • Consider potential external communications needs to support HSAC's legislative priorities or key bills, such as: o Key message development o Draft standby statements to issue proactively or in response to issues o Op-Ed placement in select media outlets Once bills are scheduled for hearing, the following should occur: • Within 2 hours of receiving hearing notification: o Draft advocate testimony in alignment with HSAC's position for group approval • Within 2 hours of group approval: o Approve testimony provided upload into online advocacy tool o Distribute email to advocacy database with details including: • Bill No. and Title • Name of Committee • Date and time of hearing • HSAC's position on the bill • Submission deadline • Draft testimony for advocate's use • Within 24 hours after bill hearing: o Email advocates status of bill and next step in process (i.e. Bill No. 123 passes House Finance committee with amendments, Bill No. 234 did not pass out of Senate Ways and Means committee, Bill No. 456 passes House Agriculture committee, moves to floor for 3rd reading, etc.) Editorial Solicitation: Hold editorial board meeting/briefings with Oahu media publications covering legislative session (early January): Suggested Media Organizations for Editorial Board Meetings: • Honolulu Star-Advertiser (Lucy Young-Oda, Kevin Dayton, Sophie Cocke) Hawaii Public Radio (Wayne Yoshioka) • Civil Beat (Nathan Eagle) • Pacific Business News (Kam Napier) Benefits of Meeting with the Editorial Board: • They could assign a story to a reporter about topics discussed at the meeting. • They will come away from this meeting with a better understanding of HSAC's priorities. • It will improve the lines of communication between the two parties and provide an opportunity to gain a better understanding of the media's needs and deadlines. • They are less likely to publish future stories about the topic without first reaching out to get our reaction. • The editors might even be motivated to write an editorial about topics discussed. Potential appearances on the following media outlets: • KHON2 "Wake Up 2Day" • Hawaii Public Radio's "The Conversation" • Hawaii News Now's "Sunrise" show Press conference/media availability at HSAC Open House • Also make HSAC members available to media during first week of Legislative session (Jan. 16-20) Op-ed on HSAC legislative package to respective island newspapers • Distribute op-ed during first week of legislative session, Jan. 16 -20 Press Release: • Also release HSAC legislative agenda/objectives release during first week of 2017 legislative session Letters To Editor: • Start drafting third-party letters to editors Online Marketing and Communications: • E-Blast to HSAC members/constituents/third-party supporters • Website o Upload legislative package to website • Facebook o Counties FB link to HSAC website February 2017 Legislative Deadlines/Benchmarks: Mid-February—First Lateral Editorial Solicitation: • Begin assigning letters to editors to third-parties for submission Online Marketing and Communications (Photos of HSAC members testifying): • Monthly E-Blast • Website • Facebook March 2017 Legislative Deadlines/Benchmarks: (Mid-session) • Mid-March—Budget Decking, Budget Crossover Editorial Solicitation: • Make HSAC members available to media during committee hearings • Have third-party submit letters to editor during budget crossover Online Marketing and Communications (Mid-Session Update): • Monthly E-Blast • Website • Facebook April 2017 Legislative Deadlines/Benchmarks (Crossover • Early April—First crossover period periods) • Mid-April—Second crossover period Editorial Solicitation: • Make HSAC members available to media during committee hearings • Have third-party supporters submit letters to editor during crossover periods Online Marketing and Communications (Legislative Update): • Monthly E-Blast • Website • Facebook May 2017 Legislative Deadlines/Benchmarks: • May 3—Adjournment Sine Die (Final vote on legislative Editorial Solicitation: measures, • Provide op-ed to each island daily newspapers at end of 2017 legislative wrap-up of session on HSAC progress report legislative session) Online Marketing and Communications (Legislative update and thank you to our supporters): • Monthly E-Blast • Website • Facebook # # # #t k+s s 5,c pcE..ASs t.. Hawaii State Association of Counties (HSAC) Counties of Kaua`i, Maui, Hawai`i and City & County of Honolulu z' 1% breouilEIt'S.Ce)lll * * . CONN MINUTES HSAC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING July 8, 2016 Honolulu Hale, Committee Meeting Room 530 South King Street Honolulu, Hawai`i 96813 CALL TO ORDER The HSAC Executive Committee was called to order by HSAC President and County of Maui Councilmember Michael Victorino at 10:00 a.m. The following members comprising a quorum were present: County of Maui: President Michael Victorino, County of Maui Councilmember County of Hawai`i: Vice President Daniel K. Paleka, Jr. (Alternate), County of Hawai`i Councilmember County of Kaua`i: Secretary Mel Rapozo, County of Kaua`i Council Chair City and County of Honolulu: Treasurer Ikaika Anderson, City and County of Honolulu Councilmember Others Present: Gladys C. Baisa, County of Maui Councilmember Honolulu staff Lisa-Ann Kimura, Staff Attorney, Office of Council Services; Honolulu staff Brandon Mitsuda, Council Liaison, Honolulu City Council Administrative Support Services; Honolulu staff Francisco Figueiredo, Legislative Aide, Office of Councilmember Ikaika Anderson; County of Maui staff Kit Zulueta, Communication Director, Office of Council Services; Kaua`i staff Aida Kawamura, Legislative Assistant, Office of Council Services Scott Ishikawa, Becker Communications, Inc. ;�4Sp'FEA$S Page 12 'r c-4c July 8, 2016 II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Treasurer Anderson moved for approval of the Agenda as circulated, seconded by Vice President Paleka, and unanimously carried. III. MINUTES A. Minutes of the June 22, 2016 HSAC Executive Committee meeting, as submitted by the HSAC Secretary. Secretary Rapozo moved for approval of the Minutes of the June 22, 2016 HSAC Executive Committee Meeting, seconded by Vice President Paleka, and unanimously carried. IV. REPORTS A. Treasurer's Report 1. Treasurer's Report for the month of June 2016, as submitted by the HSAC Treasurer. There being no objections, the 2016 Treasurer's Report for the month of June 2016 was deferred. B. County Reports 1. City and County of Honolulu Report. Treasurer Anderson reported that at its meeting on July 6, 2016, the City Council passed on second reading Bill 38, relating to including the Kapalama Hale Parking Facility in Section 15-16.5 of the Revised Ordinances of Honolulu. The City Council also passed on third reading Bill 27, relating to providing incentives that stimulate the creation of accessory dwelling units (ADU) in order to offer additional rental properties to those who have challenges becoming homeowners. Bill 27 is currently at the Mayor's office for approval. Secretary Rapozo asked whether Bill 27 included restrictions for affordability to a certain median income group. Treasurer Anderson stated that there were no rent or price restrictions included in the bill. Bill 27 will allow property owners to build a AVN Page 13 }a °%.,;, July 8, 2016 SAS) S second unit complete with a kitchen on their property. The CPR (condominium property regime) approach to subdividing the property and selling either unit is not permissible. Treasurer Anderson noted that the City Council has discussed and done research on establishing rent controls, but have not considered any formal proposal. 2. County of Hawai`i Report. Vice President Paleka thanked everyone for attending the recent HSAC Conference hosted by the County of Hawai`i. In terms of legislation, a Charter amendment has been proposed to remove the Hawai`i County Band from the Charter. It was later clarified that the band members are seeking civil service status, so the proposal will be either amended or withdrawn. Treasurer Anderson noted that the Royal Hawaiian Band is a municipal band that is city-funded, and those band members are HGEA employees. It was also noted that both bands originate from the Hawaiian Kingdom and have been in existence for 133 years. 3. County of Kaua`i Report. Secretary Rapozo reported that the Kauai County Council is considering an additional rental unit (ARU) proposal that would allow property owners to build an additional unit on their property, while still complying with lot coverage restrictions. If the size of the lot were over 3,500 square feet, the owner would be allowed to construct a 400 square foot structure; if the lot size is over 5,000 square feet, the unit can be up to 800 square feet in size. On Kaua`i, property owners who rent units at or below the HUD rental housing guidelines receive a beneficial tax rate. Secretary Rapozo stated his disapproval of the ARU proposal without an affordability requirement, because it basically increases property value for someone who could choose to rent at market rates and not help the affordable housing situation. Ultimately, the Council recommitted the ARU bill to the Planning Committee for further discussion, as some members believe that any increase in the number of available units creates a more favorable rental housing market. Councilmembers also questioned whether ARUs should be allowed islandwide rather than limited to the Lihu`e district as proposed in the bill. ' a u; , 1 4 , Esse a 4,4 July 8, 2016 • !` S A SAa OR' The Intermediate Court of Appeals (ICA) issued its ruling in the Police Commission v. Mayor case on Kaua`i, stating that the commission holds the authority for discipline and employment related matters of the chief of police. The intent of Charter Review Commission members of not politicizing the police department and that they were against the mayor having any authority over the police chief is clear in the Minutes of the Charter Review Commission. However, Mayor Carvalho has stated that he will appeal the ruling, which would necessitate additional special counsel funds to be approved by the Council. State Senator Will Espero has also voiced his belief that authority over the police chief should lie with the mayor. President Victorino expressed an interest in the ARU legislation being discussed on Kaua`i, noting that Maui County has an acute shortage of housing inventory and that he agrees that an affordability requirement is important. 4. County of Maui Report. President Victorino reported that the county manager form of government proposal failed in committee by a 5:4 vote. The Council passed the Lanai Community Plan Comprehensive Update on July 1, and the Moloka`i Community Plan Update is next. A recent brushfire shut down transportation between West and Central Maui, stranding residents and visitors. President Victorino noted that developing a bypass highway would not solve these issues, because that route would pass through these areas that are susceptible to these incidents. A groundbreaking for the new West Maui acute care hospital with senior facilities is scheduled for August 15, 2016. The last leg of the new airport access road will be opening on July 23, 2016. The $3 million upgrade of the airport has commenced, and the County is fighting to have the runway extended to provide for a safer landing strip. There being no objections, the foregoing County Reports were received for the record. C. National Association of Counties (NACo) Report Page I 5 ^,Pte;July8, 2016 4SAt) "\oRco ttiS,, The Annual Conference is happening July 22-25, 2016 in Long Beach, California. President Victorino thanked each county for contributing to the omiyage package: sugar from Maui County, flower leis from Hawai`i County, macadamia nuts from Honolulu City & County, Kaua`i Kookies from Kaua`i County. Secretary Rapozo noted that TSA Pre-check enrollment services will be available at the NACo Annual Conference in Long Beach. President Victorino announced that HSAC will be hosting breakfast meetings with the candidates for NACo second vice president, and that schedule will be forwarded to members attending the conference. There being no objections, the NACo Report was received for the record. D. Western Interstate Region (WIR) Report There was no WIR report. V. NEW BUSINESS A. Financial summary and agreement for services for the Hawai`i State Association of Counties, submitted by Becker Communications, Inc. ("Becker"). Scott Ishikawa, Becker Communications, Inc. stated that his professional experience includes 13 years as a newspaper reporter (which includes 8 years at Honolulu Advertiser), 5 years as the State Department of Transportation spokesperson, 6.5 years representing Honolulu City on the rail transit project, and he is currently employed with Becker. This resume has afforded the expansion of his skills and circle of contacts regarding media relations. Becker also works on building community relations and can assist HSAC with arranging speaking engagements with various organizations and groups. Mr. Ishikawa noted that he is not a lobbyist, and should HSAC decide it needs the services of a lobbyist, that would be a separate matter and decision for HSAC. Mr. Ishikawa talked about options regarding the contract — hourly rate, hourly rate with a cap, and a project status from December 2016 to May 2017 with a monthly retainer and a cap on the number of hours. HSAC had chosen to contract with Becker late in the legislative session to get media coverage. During that period, Mr. Ishikawa observed what ;iMSE ASScy, Page I 6 ,4, July 8, 2016 1,4,P4° b✓ ...zeynxi type of media communication worked at a particular point and what would be better for the duration of the session, and that it is better to be proactive rather than reactive by having a basic plan and making necessary adjustments along the way. Sticking with the plan throughout the session will give HSAC a better chance of getting its message out to the public, as well as to the lawmakers, through the media. Secretary Rapozo recollected the conversation to engage Becker focused on HSAC, HCOM, and the Council Chairs wanting assistance to get the message out regarding TAT via a press release and a press conference. There was no discussion about additional services, and President Victorino recommended hiring Becker on an hourly basis because the lump sum of $3,000 was considered too high, and everyone agreed. For the upcoming legislative session, Becker's assistance will be critical in coordinating meetings for the various county councilmembers with various groups/organizations to elicit their help in lobbying for HSAC's top two priority issues — TAT and beach liability, as well as providing members with overall guidance in promoting the same message statewide. He recommended that HSAC start developing a legislative plan of action for now until December, when HSAC could decide to continue its retention of Becker. President Victorino agreed with developing a legislative plan now, without making any commitment for 2017. It is important to set the legislative structure now, and not wait until September to make any decision. HCOM's makeup will consist of two new mayors in 2017, and their priorities are unknown until the mayors are elected. The Council Chairs may also change. Members agreed that HCOM and Council Chairs would be supplementary to HSAC decisions. Secretary Rapozo clarified that HSAC is spending its resources to hire Becker, who will be working in the best interest of HSAC, which basically includes the County Councils. Members agreed that each Council Chair must either be in support of HSAC, or be silent regarding actions taken by HSAC on legislative matters. It was also agreed that each Council Chair will be made aware of this caveat. Councilmember Baisa requested that Becker assist HSAC with formulating a plan and calendar of events (meetings with various groups/organizations). President Victorino added that his plan is to start now in the hopes of having a preliminary proposal for consideration at HSAC's meeting in August. The August meeting will be focused on legislative issues. If necessary, a second meeting in August July 8, 2016 }(FsA S J will be held to finalize the HSAC legislative package for consideration by each County Council. Secretary Rapozo moved to approve, retroactively, the Financial Summary / Agreement For Services between Becker Communications, Inc. and the Hawai`i State Association of Counties effective April 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016, seconded by Vice President Paleka, and unanimously carried. VI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. State Legislature update and discussion on lobbying efforts. President Victorino stated his goal that each Council adopts the HSAC Legislative Package by September. Secretary Rapozo noted that the two obvious priorities are TAT and beach liability. President Victorino explained that although the beach liability bill was introduced last session, Representative Rhoads and Senator Keith-Agaran advised that they did not entertain it because the provision does not sunset until 2017. Secretary Rapozo noted that Kaua`i County will introduce the beach liability proposal for next session. President Victorino noted that Maui County will introduce the TAT proposal for next session. Maui County will also introduce the Sunshine Law proposal, with a focus on public meetings. Other proposals mentioned included county tax/fee on cruise ships as a revenue-generating mechanism, collective bargaining negotiations, and EUTF (employer-union health benefits trust fund). The members agreed that the top four issues for HSAC at the next legislative session are: TAT, beach liability, the Sunshine Law, and Collective Bargaining. Mr. Ishikawa spoke of the importance of designating which members will be representing HSAC on certain issues when meeting with the editorial boards. Treasurer Anderson moved to approve TAT, beach liability, and the Sunshine Law as HSAC's top three priorities for the 2017 legislative session, seconded by Vice President Paleka, and unanimously carried. Secretary Rapozo noted that he is considering introducing the unadjudicated fines proposal, because it involves primarily county resources that are not being reimbursed. President Victorino felt that the cost for the courts to administer these cases as compared with the Page ( 8 fa °r<,,<i. July 8, 2016 ( 7/. SAS�s amount derived from the fines is not sufficient to justify the county going after it. VII. ANNOUNCEMENTS A. Scheduling of the next meeting. The next Executive Committee meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 22, 2016, at 10:00 a.m. on O`ahu, with a tentative second meeting scheduled for Friday, August 26, 2016, if needed. B. Other announcements. Secretary Rapozo moved for approval to purchase, at a cost of approximately $20 each, 40 portfolios with an HSAC logo imprint on the front cover for distribution to all county councilmembers and mayors, seconded by Treasurer Anderson, and unanimously carried. President Victorino noted that this expense will be budgeted from the HSAC Promotion line item. Members welcomed representatives from the Waikiki Community Center who were touring the City Hall and stopped in to view government officials in action and to say hello. VIII. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 11:39 a.m. Respectfully submitted, VittlAiVAr—,1 MEL RAPOZO, Secretary Hawaii State Association of Counties