HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-07-03 Liquor Commission Minutes HiloCOUNTY OF HAWAI`I
DEPARTMENT OF LIQUOR CONTROL
LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING
MINUTES —JULY3, 2024
HILO LAGOON CENTRE
101 AU PU N I STREET, UNIT 230
H I LO, HAWAI `I
I. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by Chair Nishimoto at 10:00 A.M., in the Hilo Meeting
Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Au pu n i Street, Unit 230, Hilo,
Hawaii.
The following were present and constituted a quorum:
Commissioners: Laurisa Nishimoto, Chair
Wil Okabe, Vice Chair
Doug Espejo, Commissioner
David Greenwell, Commissioner
Arthur Taniguchi, Commissioner
Jennifer Yadao, Commissioner
Absent and Excused: Jennifer Wilkinson, Commissioner
Others Present: Gerald Takase, Director
Brandon Gonzalez, Administrative Officer
Dakota `Cody' Frenz, Deputy Corporation Counsel
Stacie Waltjen, Licensing Officer
Hau`oli Sayles, Commission Secretary
Nishimoto: Please silence phones and other devices. This meeting is being recorded,
speak loud and clear and one at a time. We will now do roll call, please say present
when your name is called.
Sayles: Vice Chair Okabe.
Okabe: Present.
Sayles: Commissioner Espejo.
Espejo: Present.
Sayles: Commissioner Greenwell.
Greenwell: Present.
Sayles: Commissioner Taniguchi.
Taniguchi: Present.
Sayles: Commissioner Yadao.
Yadao: Present.
Sayles: Chair Nishimoto.
Nishimoto: Present.
Sayles: Absent and excused is Commissioner Wilkinson. Others present are Director
Gerald Takase, Administrative Officer Brandon Gonzalez, Deputy Corporation Counsel
Cody Frenz, Licensing Officer Stacie Waltjen, and Commission Secretary Hau`oli
Sayles.
II. Approval of Minutes —June 6, 2024 (10:01AM)
Nishimoto: The June 6, 2024, meeting minutes were circulated via email on
July 1, 2024. May I have a motion to approve meeting minutes as circulated?
Okabe: So moved.
Greenwell: Greenwell, second.
Commissioner Okabe moved to approve the June 6, 2024,
Liquor Commission meeting minutes as circulated;
Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell.
Nishimoto: Any discussion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Motion has been approved.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 2 OF 32
The motion was carried unanimously.
III. Approval of Addendum and/or Supplemental Agenda (10:02 AM)
Nishimoto: There is no addendum and/or supplemental agenda.
IV. Public Statements on Agenda Items (10:02 AM)
Nishimoto: Are there any public statements from members of the public at this time?
There were no statements from members of the public.
V. Public Hearings (10:02 AM)
1. APPLICATION NO.:
APPLICANT:
(10:02 AM) TRADE NAME:
PLACE OF BUSINESS:
TMK:
LICENSE APPLIED FOR:
23-30
MS Hamakua, LLC
Minit Stop (Hamakua)
45-3244 Mamalahoa Highway, Honoka`a, Hawaii
4-5-004-072
Change in Kind to General, from
Retail Beer and Wine
Attending in person representing applicant: BJ Estrada, Retail Operations Manager.
Nishimoto: Good morning, please state your name.
Estrada: My name is BJ Estrada.
Nishimoto: And your relationship to the business?
Estrada: I'm the Operations Manager.
Nishimoto: Can you please describe the business?
Estrada: We're a local convenience store.
Nishimoto: Have you received the application report?
Estrada: Yes.
Nishimoto: Are there any changes to the report?
Estrada: No.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 3 OF 32
Nishimoto: Director, are there any reports of protests?
Takase: Madame Chairman, the applicant mailed 5 out of 5 notices within 100 feet,
43 out of 44 within 500 feet. There were 43 properties entitled to protest, we received
no protests to this application.
Nishimoto: Is there any public testimony?
There was no public testimony.
Nishimoto: Seeing none, Commission, any discussion or questions?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Seeing there are none, may I have a motion to close the public hearing?
Okabe: So moved to close the public hearing.
Greenwell: Greenwell, second.
Commissioner Okabe moved to close the public
hearing; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell.
Nishimoto: Thank you. Is there a discussion on the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Public hearing is closed.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve or deny Application No. 23-30?
Okabe: Motion to approve.
Greenwell: Greenwell, second.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 4 OF 32
Commissioner Okabe moved to approve Application No. 23-30,
MS Hamakua, LLC, dba Minit Stop (Hamakua), for a Change in
Kind to General, from Retail Beer and Wine, located at 45-3244
Mamalahoa Highway, Honoka`a, Hawaii, TMK: 4-5-004-072;
Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell.
Nishimoto: Is there any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
The motion was carried unanimously.
2. APPLICATION NO.:
APPLICANT:
(10:05 AM) TRADE NAME:
PLACE OF BUSINESS:
TMK:
LICENSE APPLIED FOR:
23-33
Ohana Foods Inc.
Kilauea Shell
1104 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii
2-2-021:040
Change in Kind to General, from
Retail Beer and Wine
Attending in person representing applicant: Carl Okuyama, Co-owner.
Nishimoto: Good morning, please state your name and relationship to the business.
Okuyama: Good morning, my name is Carl Okuyama, and I'm the President of the
company.
Nishimoto: Can you please describe your business?
Okuyama: We operate convenience stores and gas stations in Hilo and Ka`u.
Nishimoto: Have you received the application report?
Okuyama: Yes.
Nishimoto: Are there any changes to the report?
Okuyama: No.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 5 OF 32
Nishimoto: Director, are there any reports of protests?
Takase: Madame Chairman, the applicant mailed 10 out of 10 notices within 100 feet,
135 out of 135 within 500 feet. There were 134 properties entitled to protest, we
received no protests to this application.
Nishimoto: Thank you very much. Any public testimony?
There was no public testimony.
Nishimoto: Commission, any discussion or questions?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to close the public hearing?
Okabe: Move to close public hearing.
Taniguchi: Second.
Commissioner Okabe moved to close the public
hearing; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Public hearing has been closed.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve or deny Application No. 23-33?
Okabe: Motion to approve 23-33.
Nishimoto: May I have a second?
Yadao: Yadao, second.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 6 OF 32
Commissioner Okabe moved to approve Application No. 23-33,
Ohana Foods Inc., dba Kilauea Shell, for a Change in Kind to
General, from Retail Beer and Wine, located at 1104 Kilauea
Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii, TMK: 2-2-021:040; Seconded by
Commissioner Yadao.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Alright, let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Your application has been approved.
The motion was carried unanimously.
VI. Preliminary Hearings (10:07 AM)
1. APPLICATION NO.:
APPLICANT:
(10:07 AM) TRADE NAME:
PLACE OF BUSINESS:
TMK:
LICENSE APPLIED FOR:
T23-36
Hatch Restaurant Group, LLC
The Temple Kona
Ali`i Sunset Plaza, 75-5799 Ali`i Drive, Building A
Units 1 & 2, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
7-5-009:031
Sale and Transfer of the Dispenser General liquor
license, Category B1, currently held by A-Bay's
Cantina LLC, dba A-Bay's Island Cafe
Attending in person respresenting applicant: Ian Hatch, Owner.
Nishimoto: Good morning, could you please state your name and relationship to the
business.
Hatch: Good morning. Ian Hatch, I'm the Owner.
Nishimoto: Can you describe your business?
Hatch: Yes, it's a high -end but casual restaurant bar.
Nishimoto: Have you received the application report?
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 7 OF 32
Hatch: Yes.
Nishimoto: Are there any changes to the report?
Hatch: No.
Nishimoto: Any public testimony?
There was no public testimony.
Nishimoto: Seeing none. Commission, discussion or questions?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Is this a counterpart to the Hilo location?
Hatch: Correct.
Espejo: Are you already operating?
Hatch: No, not yet.
Espejo: And when is the target date for that?
Hatch: We're waiting on the Health Department to come in, they should be coming in
today so could be a couple days from now if we're lucky.
Nishimoto: Alright, any other discussion or questions from the Commission?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve or deny Application No. T23-36? If
approved, public hearing to be held on September 5, 2024, in Hilo.
Greenwell: Greenwell, makes the motion to approve.
Okabe: Second.
Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve Application No. T23-36,
Hatch Restaurant Group, LLC, dba The Temple Kona, for a Sale and
Transfer of the Dispenser General liquor license, Category B1, currently
held by A-Bay's Cantina LLC, dba A-Bay's Island Cafe, located at the
Ah'i Sunset Plaza, 75-5799 AlVi Drive, Building A, Units 1 & 2, Kailua-Kona,
Hawaii, TMK: 7-5-009:031, with public hearing to be held on September 5,
2024, in Hilo, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Okabe.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 8 OF 32
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Okay, let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to ratify the issuance of a Temporary License No.
T-DG-962, effective May 31, 2024?
Greenwell: Greenwell, I make the motion to ratify License No. T-DG-962, effective
May 31, 2024.
Taniguchi: Second.
Commissioner Greenwell moved to ratify issuance of
Temporary License No. T-DG-962, effective May 31, 2024;
Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi.
Nishimoto: Okay, any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Alright, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Your application has been approved.
The motion was carried unanimously.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 9 OF 32
2. APPLICATION NO.:
APPLICANT:
(10:10 AM) TRADE NAME:
PLACE OF BUSINESS:
TMK:
LICENSE APPLIED FOR:
23-37
Los Habaneros, Inc.
Habaneros Grill
75-5864 Walua Road, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
7-5-009:034
Original Restaurant General liquor license,
Category B2
Attending in person representing applicant: Cara Johnson-Altamirano, Co-owner.
Nishimoto: Good morning. Can you please state your name and your relationship to
the business?
Johnson-Altamirano: Good morning. Cara Johnson-Altamirano, Owner.
Nishimoto: Can you please describe the business?
Johnson-Altamirano: We're trying to open a restaurant with bar service.
Nishimoto: Have you received the application report?
Johnson-Altamirano: Yes.
Nishimoto: Are there any changes to the report?
Johnson-Altamirano: No.
Nishimoto: Any public testimony?
There was no public testimony.
Nishimoto: Commission, any discussion or questions?
Taniguchi: I have a question, so where is this, Keauhou Shopping Center?
Johnson-Altamirano: No, that's our original restaurant, this is in town on the corner of
Ali`i and Walua. We used to run a restaurant there 10 years ago for five years, we've
had two tenants in there since.
Takase: So, it's on that V-shaped lot.
Taniguchi: So, it's on Ali`i Drive?
Johnson-Altamirano: Yes, the 2-story burgundy building right across from Royal Kona
Resort.
Taniguchi: The one on the hill? Alright, so it's Mexican food you going have?
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 10 OF 32
Johnson-Altamirano: Will be, we are getting it back and so I want to have a license in
place because we're trying to figure out what we'll be doing, but doing the same as we
did.
Taniguchi: Alright, terrific.
Nishimoto: Any other discussion or questions?
There was no further discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve or deny Application No. 23-37?
If approved, public hearing to be held September 5, 2024, in Hilo.
Okabe: Motion to approve.
Nishimoto: May I have a second?
Taniguchi: Second.
Commissioner Okabe moved to approve Application No. 23-37,
Los Habaneros, Inc., dba Habaneros Grill, for an Original Restaurant
General liquor license, Category B2, located at 75-5864 Walua Road,
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, TMK: 7-5-009:034, with public hearing to
be held on September 5, 2024, in Hilo, Hawaii; Seconded by
Commissioner Taniguchi.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Motion has been approved.
The motion was carried unanimously.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 11 OF 32
VII. Unfinished Business (10: 12 AM)
Nishimoto: There is no Unfinished Business.
VIII. New Business (10:12AM)
1. Request to Extend the Time for Issuance of License Submitted for Approval
a. Kuakini Operations LLC, dba Kona Distillery, Co.,
RE: Application No. 22-23, approval of request to extend the time
(10:12 AM) issuance of the liquor license for good cause shown for an additional
12 months, from May 4, 2024, to and including May 4, 2025, by letter
received June 26, 2024, of its Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license,
Category B1, located at 75-6099 Kuakini Highway, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Passage requires finding of good cause pursuant to Rule 4-2(M) of
the Rules and Regulations of the Liquor Commission of the County
of Hawaii. If the Commission finds good cause, state what that
good cause is when making the motion.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve with good cause?
Taniguchi: I'll move to approve as stated in the letter, due to delays in construction, air
conditioning, and electrical installation, they can't schedule the final inspection. So,
basically I don't think it's going to be that long but just in case, it's going to give them
some leeway.
Nishimoto: May I have a second?
Okabe: Wil, second.
Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the request to extend
the time issuance of the liquor license for good cause shown for
an additional 12 months, from May 4, 2024, to and including May 4,
2025, by letter received June 26, 2024, of its Small Craft Producer
Pub liquor license, Category 131, located at 75-6099 Kuakini Highway,
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Okabe.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 12 OF 32
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Extension has been granted.
The motion was carried unanimously.
b. Local Local LLC, dba Appliance Empire Club,
RE: Application No. 21-40, approval of request to extend the time
(10: 14 AM) issuance of the liquor license for good cause shown for an additional
9 months, from July 7, 2024, to and including April 7, 2025, by letter
received June 27, 2024, of its Dispenser General liquor license,
Category B2, located at 660 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii.
Passage requires finding of good cause pursuant to Rule 4-2(M) of
the Rules and Regulations of the Liquor Commission of the County
of Hawaii. If the Commission finds good cause, state what that
good cause is when making the motion.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve with good cause?
Taniguchi: I move to approve again with good cause, I think in reading this letter, I
thought the people were going to be here, but I thought it was a good gesture that they
changed their focus from what they initially wanted to do when they talked to their
neighbors, and then decided to tone it down instead of loud music and all that. So,
think it's a very good reason, so then it's going to cause them to do some renovations
with that, so I think it's a very good reason to approve it.
Nishimoto: Okay, thank you very much. May I have a second?
Greenwell: Greenwell, second.
Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the request to extend
the time issuance of the liquor license for good cause shown for an
additional 9 months, from July 7, 2024, to and including April 7, 2025,
by letter received June 27, 2024, of its Dispenser General liquor
license, Category B2, located at 660 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii;
Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 13 OF 32
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: We have approved the request for extension of 9 months.
The motion was carried unanimously.
2. Change in Members/Officers/Directors Submitted for Approval (10: 16 AM)
a. Kona Sunrise Charters, Inc., dba Hula Kai, approval of Change
in Officers/Directors, and Application for Transfer of Stock as follows:
(10:16 AM)
• Removal of Orville Dant III, President and Director; Change in Title
of Melynda Dant, from Executive Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer,
and Director; to President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Director; Change
in Title of Alexander Dant, from Vice President; to Vice President and
Director; Appointment of Jennifer Dant, and Zachary Dant, as Directors;
effective September 13, 2023, by form received May 27, 2024;
• 100% Stock Transfer from Melynda J. Dant, as Trustee of the
Melynda J. Dant Revocable Living Trust dated July 24, 2002,
and as an individual, Alexander Dant, an individual, Zachary Dant,
an individual, Jennifer Dant, an individual, to 1250 Moorings, Inc.,
effective September 13, 2023, by form received June 7, 2024;
• Personal History and Affidavits for Jennifer Dant, and Zachary
Dant, Directors;
of its Tour or Cruise Vessel liquor license, Category A, moored
at Keauhou Bay, Keauhou, North Kona, Hawaii
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve?
Greenwell: Greenwell, make the motion to approve.
Nishimoto: May I have a second?
Taniguchi: Second.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 14 OF 32
Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the Change in
Officers/Directors, and Application for Transfer of Stock as follows:
Removal of Orville Dant III, President and Director; Change in Title of
Melynda Dant, from Executive Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and
Director; to President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Director; Change in Title
of Alexander Dant, from Vice President; to Vice President and Director;
Appointment of Jennifer Dant, and Zachary Dant, as Directors; effective
September 13, 2023, by form received May 27, 2024; 100% Stock Transfer
from Melynda J. Dant, as Trustee of the Melynda J. Dant Revocable
Living Trust dated July 24, 2002, and as an individual, Alexander Dant,
an individual, Zachary Dant, an individual, Jennifer Dant, an individual, to
1250 Moorings, Inc., effective September 13, 2023, by form received June 7,
2024; Personal History and Affidavits for Jennifer Dant, and Zachary Dant,
Directors; of its Tour or Cruise Vessel liquor license, Category A, moored
at Keauhou Bay, Keauhou, North Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by
Commissioner Taniguchi.
Nishimoto: Any discussion on the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote. All those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: Opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: That change has been approved.
The motion was carried unanimously.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 15 OF 32
b. KBXtreme, LLC, dba KBXtreme, approval of Change in Members,
and Application for Transfer of Membership Interest as follows:
(10:16 AM)
• Removal of Thomas Merola, Member;
• Appointment of Shannon Gaspar, and Blossom Kuanoni, as Members;
• 5% Transfer of Membership Interest to Shannon Gaspar (2.5%),
and Blossom Kuanoni (2.5%), Members;
• Personal History and Affidavits for Shannon Gaspar, and Blossom
Kuanoni, Members;
effective January 1, 2024) by forms received May 29, 2024; of its
Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at 75-5591
Palani Road, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve?
Okabe: Wil, motion to approve.
Taniguchi: Second.
Commissioner Okabe moved to approve the Change in Members,
and Application for Transfer of Membership Interest as follows:
Removal of Thomas Merola, Member; Appointment of Shannon
Gaspar, and Blossom Kuanoni, as Members; 5% Transfer of
Membership Interest to Shannon Gaspar (2.5%), and Blossom
Kuanoni (2.5%), Members; Personal History and Affidavits for
Shannon Gaspar, and Blossom Kuanoni, Members; effective
January 1, 2024, by forms received May 29, 2024; of its Restaurant
General liquor license, Category B2, located at 75-5591 Palani Road,
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi.
Nishimoto: Any discussion on the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: We have approved the Change in Members for KBXtreme.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 16 OF 32
The motion was carried unanimously.
C. Fair Wind, Inc., dba Fair Wind II, approval of Change in
(10: 17 AM) Officers/Directors, and Application for Transfer of Stock as follows:
• Removal of Orville Dant III, President and Director; Change in
Title of Melynda Dant, from Executive Vice President, Secretary,
Treasurer, and Director; to President, Secretary, Treasurer, and
Director; Change in Title of Alexander Dant, from Vice President;
to Vice President and Director; Appointment of Jennifer Dant, as
Director; effective September 13, 2023, by form received May 31, 2024;
• 100% Stock Transfer from Melynda J. Dant, as Trustee of the
Melynda J. Dant Revocable Living Trust dated July 24, 2002,
and as an individual, Alexander Dant, an individual, Zachary Dant,
an individual, Jennifer Dant, an individual, to 1250 Moorings, Inc.,
effective September 13, 2023, by form received June 7, 2024;
• Personal History and Affidavit for Jennifer Dant, Director;
of its Tour or Cruise Vessel liquor license, Category A, moored
at Keauhou Bay, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve?
Taniguchi: Move to approve.
Nishimoto: Thank you very much, may I have a second?
Yadao: Second.
Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the Change in Officers/Directors,
and Application for Transfer of Stock as follows: Removal of Orville Dant III,
President and Director; Change in Title of Melynda Dant, from Executive
Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Director; to President, Secretary,
Treasurer, and Director; Change in Title of Alexander Dant, from Vice
President; to Vice President and Director; Appointment of Jennifer Dant
as Director; effective September 13, 2023, by form received May 31, 2024;
100% Stock Transfer from Melynda J. Dant, as Trustee of the Melynda J. Dant
Revocable Living Trust dated July 24, 2002, and as an individual, Alexander
Dant, an individual, Zachary Dant, an individual, Jennifer Dant, an individual,
to 1250 Moorings, Inc., effective September 13, 2023, by form received
June 7, 2024; Personal History and Affidavit for Jennifer Dant, Director;
of its Tour or Cruise Vessel liquor license, Category A, moored at Keauhou
Bay, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Yadao.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 17 OF 32
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion? Yes, go ahead.
Greenwell: Gerald, is Fair Wind in partnership with this Hula Kai? Do they work
together?
Takase: Yes, could be.
Gonzalez: Same parent company, they have two different boats.
Greenwell: Same owners just two different companies, two different boats?
Gonzalez: Yes, sir. So, each boat is required to get their own license.
Greenwell: Okay.
Nishimoto: Any other discussion?
There was no further discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: That has been approved.
The motion was carried unanimously.
d. MNS, Ltd., dba ABC Store #62, dba ABC Store #63, dba ABC Store
#71, dba ABC Store #75, dba Island Gourmet Markets, dba Aloha
(10:19 AM) Wine Bar, approval of Change in Officers/Directors, with the removal
of Aaron Gandaoli, Vice President and Director, effective March 31, 2024)
by form received May 31, 2024; of its Retail General and Dispenser
General liquor licenses, for all Hawaili Island locations.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve?
Greenwell: Greenwell, approve.
Taniguchi: Second.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 18 OF 32
Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the Change
in Officers/Directors, with the removal of Aaron Gandaoli,
Vice President and Director, effective March 31, 2024,
by form received May 31, 2024; of its Retail General and
Dispenser General liquor licenses, for all Hawaili Island
locations; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Seeing there are none, let's take a vote. All in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Okay, so that has been approved.
The motion was carried unanimously.
e. Thai Rin Restaurant, Inc., dba Thai Rin Restaurant and Bar, approval
of Change in Officers/Directors, and Application for Transfer of Stock as
(10:20 AM) follows:
• Removal of Andrew Kim, Chairman of the Board, and Anthony Kim,
Director; effective May 1, 2024, by form received June 5, 2024;
• 66% Stock Transfer from Andrew Kim (33%) and Anthony Kim (33%),
to Paul Kim; effective June 1, 2024, by form received June 5, 2024;
of its Dispenser General liquor license, Category A, located at the
Ali`i Sunset Plaza, 75-5799 Ali`i Drive, Unit C-1, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve?
Taniguchi: Move to approve.
Nishimoto: May I have a second?
Greenwell: Greenwell, second.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 19 OF 32
Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the Change in Officers/Directors,
and Application for Transfer of Stock as follows: Removal of Andrew Kim,
Chairman of the Board, and Anthony Kim, Director; effective May 1, 2024,
by form received June 5, 2024; 66% Stock Transfer from Andrew Kim (33%)
and Anthony Kim (33%), to Paul Kim; effective June 1, 2024, by form received
June 5, 2024; of its Dispenser General liquor license, Category A, located
at the Ali`i Sunset Plaza, 75-5799 Ali`i Drive, Unit C-1, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii;
Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Seeing that there are none, let's take a vote. All in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: That has been approved.
The motion was carried unanimously.
f. Kohanaiki Club, Inc., dba Kohanaiki Club, Inc., approval
of Change in Officers as follows:
(10:20 AM)
• Removal of Omar Macedo, Executive Vice President,
effective June 6, 2024) by form received June 5, 2024;
• Removal of Thomas Heath, Treasurer, effective June 6, 2024)
by form received June 7, 2024;
of its Club liquor license, Category B2, located at 73-4676 Queen
Ka`ahumanu Highway, Mile Marker 95, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve?
Okabe: Wil, motion to approve.
Nishimoto: May I have a second?
Taniguchi: Second.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 20 OF 32
Commissioner Okabe moved to approve the Change in Officers as
follows: Removal of Omar Macedo, Executive Vice President, effective
June 6, 2024, by form received June 5, 2024; Removal of Thomas Heath,
Treasurer, effective June 6, 2024, by form received June 7, 2024; of its
Club liquor license, Category B2, located at 73-4676 Queen Ka`ahumanu
Highway, Mile Marker 95, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by
Commissioner Taniguchi.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Okay, let's take a vote. All in favor say "Aye. "
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: Opposed "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Okay, so we approved that, Change in Officers.
The motion was carried unanimously.
g. Kohala Village Hub Pub & Shop LLC, dba Hub Pub, dba Blue Dragon
Tavern, approval of Change in Members, and Application for Transfer
of Membership Interest as follows:
(10:21 AM)
• Removal of Bennett Dorrance, Jr., as Trustee of the Bennett Dorance Jr.
Trust dated December 11, 1989, as amended, Member;
• 50% Transfer of Membership Interest to Leigh Dorrance, Member;
effective May 31, 2022, by forms received June 13, 2024; of its Small
Craft Producer Pub liquor licenses, Category B2, for both Hawaii Island
locations.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve?
Taniguchi: Move to approve.
Nishimoto: May I have a second?
Greenwell: Greenwell, second.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 21 OF 32
Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the Change in
Members, and Application for Transfer of Membership Interest
as follows: Removal of Bennett Dorrance, Jr., as Trustee of
the Bennett Dorance Jr. Trust dated December 11, 1989, as
amended, Member; 50% Transfer of Membership Interest to
Leigh Dorrance, Member; effective May 31, 2022, by forms
received June 13, 2024; of its Small Craft Producer Pub liquor
licenses, Category B2, for both Hawaii Island locations;
Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Alright, let's take a vote. All those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: It has been approved for Change in Membership.
The motion was carried unanimously.
h. The North West Company (International) Inc., dba Cost-U-Less,
approval of Change in Officers/Directors as follows:
(10:21 AM)
• Removal of Amanda Sutton, Secretary, effective January 29, 2024;
• Change in Title of John King, from Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
and Director; to Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Secretary, and
Director; effective January 31, 2024;
by form received June 25, 2024; of its Retail General liquor license,
located at 715 Kino`ole Street, Hilo, Hawaii.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve?
Taniguchi: Move to approve.
Nishimoto: May I have a second?
Yadao: Second.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 22 OF 32
Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the Change in
Officers/Directors as follows: Removal of Amanda Sutton,
Secretary, effective January 29, 2024; Change in Title of John
King, from Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Director; to Chief
Financial Officer (CFO), Secretary, and Director; effective
January 31, 2024; by form received June 25, 2024; of its Retail
General liquor license, located at 715 Kino`ole Street, Hilo,
Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Yadao.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: Opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: That has been approved.
The motion was carried unanimously.
i. Kohanaiki Shores LLC, dba Kohanaiki Club, Inc. (Brewery), approval
of Change in Officers, with the removal of Omar Macedo, Executive Vice
(10:22 AM) President, effective September 18, 2020, by form received June 25, 2024;
of its Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category A, located at
73-2055 Ala Kohanaiki, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to approve?
Greenwell: Greenwell, make a motion to approve.
Taniguchi: Second.
Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the Change in Officers,
with the removal of Omar Macedo, Executive Vice President, effective
September 18, 2020, by form received June 25, 2024; of its Small Craft
Producer Pub liquor license, Category A, located at 73-2055 Ala Kohanaiki,
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 23 OF 32
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: That has been approved as well.
The motion was carried unanimously.
3. Permits Issued for Ratification (10:22 AM)
a. Christopher Camero Memorial VFW Post 12122, dba VFW Post 12122,
ratification of Application for Game Permits, for an event on February 22,
2024, approved by Director Gerald Takase on February 8, 2024; for
bingo events from June 1-30, 2024; and poker events on June 15-16,
2024, approved by Director Gerald Takase on June 4, 2024; of its
Special General liquor license, located at 74-5543 Kaiwi Street, Suite 3-
A185a and 3-A185b, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
b. Mauna Kea Resort LLC, dba The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort,
ratification of Application for Game Permit, for an event on May 18, 2024,
approved by Director Gerald Takase on May 6, 2024, of its Hotel liquor
license, located at 62-100 Kauna`oa Drive, Kamuela, Hawaii.
C. Volcano Vineyards, LLC, dba Volcano Winery, ratification of
Application for Entertainment Permit, for an event on July 14, 2024,
approved by Director Gerald Takase on June 12, 2024, of its Winery
liquor license, Category A, located at the Volcano Golf Course
Subdivision, 35 Pi`i Mauna Drive, Volcano, Hawaii.
d. Lau Ola, LLC, dba Big Island Grown, ratification of Application
for Alcohol Purchase Permit, for 220 gallons of Ethanol 200 proof
for industrial use from Future Hydrocarbons in San Pedro, California,
approved by Director Gerald Takase on June 12, 2024, located at
28-595 Kaupakuea Homestead Road, Pepe`ekeo, Hawaii.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 24 OF 32
e. Eric Matayoshi, ratification of Application for Individual Importation of
Liquor Permit, for a single shipment of liquor not to exceed five gallons
(19 liters) unavailable in the State of Hawaii; approved by Director Gerald
Takase on June 24, 2024, shipped to 550 Naniakea Street, Hilo, Hawaii.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to ratify?
Okabe: So moved to ratify.
Nishimoto: May I have a second?
Taniguchi: Second.
Commissioner Okabe moved to ratify Permits Issued
for Ratification, Item Nos. 3(a) through 3(e), as stated in
the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi.
Nishimoto: Discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
The motion was carried unanimously.
4. Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises Issued for Ratification (10:23 AM)
a. Honokaa Public House LLC, dba Honokaa Public House,
ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed
Premises, for an event on July 8, 2024, approved by Director
Gerald Takase on June 7, 2024, of its Restaurant General liquor
license, Category B2, located at 45-3490 Mamane Street, Units
G & F, Honoka`a, Hawaii.
b. KBXtreme, LLC, dba KBXtreme, ratification of Application for
Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, to include parking lot for
a concert event on August 17, 2024, approved by Director Gerald
Takase on June 12, 2024, of its Restaurant General liquor license,
Category B2, located at 75-5591 Palani Road, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 25 OF 32
C. Kuleana Spirits, Inc., dba Kuleana Rum Shack, ratification
of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for
an event on June 13, 2024, approved by Director Gerald Takase
on June 13, 2024, of its Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license,
Category B1, located at the Queens' MarketPlace, 69-201 Waikoloa
Beach Drive, Spaces H5, H6 and H7, Waikoloa, Hawaii.
d. Nani Mau Glory Management, LLC, dba Nani Mau Gardens,
ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed
Premises, for an event on June 21, 2024, approved by Director
Gerald Takase on June 21, 2024, of its Restaurant General liquor
license, Category B2, located at 421 Makalika Street, Hilo, Hawaii.
e. ANAHKAHNA, Inc., dba The Korner Pocket Bar & Grill,
ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed
Premises, for an event on July 6, 2024, approved by Director
Gerald Takase on June 26, 2024, of its Restaurant General liquor
license, Category B2, located at the Central Kona Shopping Center
1 I, 81-970 Haleki`i Street, Building B, Kealakekua, Hawaii.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to ratify?
Taniguchi: Move to ratify.
Nishimoto: May I have a second?
Okabe: Second.
Commissioner Taniguchi moved to ratify Temporary
Increase in Licensed Premises Issued for Ratification,
Item Nos. 4(a) through 4(e), as stated in the agenda;
Seconded by Commissioner Okabe.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
The motion was carried unanimously.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 26 OF 32
5. Special Licenses Issued for Ratification (10:24 AM)
a. License No. SP-23-152, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba
The Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor
license, for an event on May 31, 2024, held at 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii.
b. License No. SP-23-153, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba
The Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor
license, for an event on June 1, 2024, held at 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii.
C. License No. SP-23-154, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba The
Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license,
for an event on June 6, 2024, held at 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii.
d. License No. SP-23-155, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba The
Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license,
for an event on June 15, 2024, held at 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii.
e. License No. SP-23-156, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba The
Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license,
for an event on June 28 & 29, 2024, held at 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii.
f. License No. SP-23-157, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba The
Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license,
for an event on June 30, 2024, held at 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii.
g. License No. SP-23-158, Hawaii Island Humane Society S.P.C.A., dba
Hawaii Island Humane Society, for a Special General liquor license, for
an event on July 6, 2024, held at the Mauna Lani Resort, Kamuela, Hawaii.
h. License No. SP-23-159, Ocean Defenders Alliance Inc., Ocean
Defenders Alliance, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an
event on June 8, 2024, held at the Kona Wine Market, 73-5613 Olowalu
Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
i. License No. SP-23-161, Penn Hawaii Youth Foundation, dba
Penn Hawaii Youth Foundation, for a Special Beer liquor license,
for an event on June 15, 2024, held at 777 Kinoole Street, Hilo, Hawaii.
j. License No. SP-23-162, Japanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry
of Hawaii, dba Japanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Hawaii,
for a Special General liquor license, for an event on June 19, 2024, held at
the Arc of Hilo, 1099 Waianuenue Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii.
k. License No. SP-23-163, Aloha Performing Arts Company, dba
Aloha Theatre, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for events on
June 21-23, 2024, held at 79-7384 Mamalahoa Highway, Kealakekua, Hawaii.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 27 OF 32
I. License No. SP-23-164, Kona Elks Club, dba Kona Elks Club, for a
Special General liquor license, for events from July 1 - 31, 2024, held at
75-170 Hualalai Road, Suite E-100, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to ratify?
Taniguchi: Move to ratify.
Nishimoto: May I have a second?
Greenwell: Greenwell, second.
Commissioner Taniguchi moved to ratify Special Licenses Issued
for Ratification, Item Nos. 5(a) through 5(I), License Nos. SP-23-152
through SP-23-159 AND License Nos. SP-23-161 through SP-23-164,
as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
There was no discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: All those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Special Licenses has been ratified.
The motion was carried unanimously.
6. Transient Vessel Licenses Issued for Ratification (10:25 AM)
a. License No. TV-24-001, Pride of America Ship Holding, LLC,
dba Pride of America, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at
Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; August 6, 13, 20, 27;
September 3, 10, 17, 24; October 1, 87 15, 22, 29; November 5, 12, 19,
26; December 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 2024; January 7, 14, 21, 28; February 4,
11, 18, 25; March 4, 11, 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; May 6, 13, 20, 27;
June 3, 10, 17, 24, 2025.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 28 OF 32
b. License No. TV-24-002, Pride of America Ship Holding, LLC, dba
Pride of America, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona
Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; August 7, 14, 21,
28; September 4, 11, 18, 25; October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; November 6, 13,
20, 27; December 4, 11, 18, 25, 2024; January 1, 87 15, 22, 29; February
57 12, 19, 26; March 5, 12, 19, 26; April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; May 7, 14, 21, 28;
June 4, 11, 18, 25, 2025.
Nishimoto: May I have a motion to ratify?
Taniguchi: Move to ratify.
Nishimoto: May I have a second?
Yadao: Yadao, second.
Commissioner Taniguchi moved to ratify Transient Vessel
Licenses Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 6(a) and 6(b),
License Nos. TV-24-001 and TV-24-002, as stated in
the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Yadao.
Nishimoto: Any discussion of the motion?
Taniguchi: Gerald, I have a question. The ships when they come, every time they
come they have to list the dates?
Takase: They get a separate license for each time they're in port.
Taniguchi: So they cannot do like for the month, for each time they come they gotta
apply?
Takase: Yes, since they're not here all the time.
Taniguchi: If they go to the different islands, they gotta get one for each island?
Takase: Yes, we charge $25.00 per day.
Taniguchi: Kona too, separate port?
Takase: So separate license.
Taniguchi: Wow, interesting.
Nishimoto: Any other discussion?
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 29 OF 32
There was no further discussion by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Nishimoto: All those opposed say "Nay."
There was no opposition by Commissioners.
Nishimoto: Alright, that has been approved.
The motion was carried unanimously.
IX. Announcements (10:27 AM)
Meetings of the Liquor Commission
August 1, 2024, 10:00 A.M., Kona Meeting Room, Department of Liquor
Control, 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Suite 107, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
September 5, 2024, 10:00 A.M., Hilo Meeting Room, Department of Liquor
Control, Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Unit 230, Hilo, Hawaii.
Nishimoto: Any other announcements?
Greenwell: I'd like to go on record and say that I reviewed the changes to the rules that
the staff is looking at, and I really appreciate them keeping up with subjects that have
come up in different meetings throughout the years that they've been able to pick up,
and they're clarifying things that have come up that we've had questions on, I was
happy to see that the staff is on it.
Nishimoto: Very good, noted. So, what's the next step in that?
Takase: So, we're in the process of going through our review of the liquor rules with the
industry members. So we met last week Thursday with the Kona representatives, and
what we've been trying to do is get representatives from all of the different classes, so
hotel, big retail, small retail, big dispenser, small dispenser, manufacturers, and
wholesalers. We kind of meet with them, they go over the rules and tell us what they
think, and if they have any other matters they want to bring up, we will kind of
incorporate those too. We're going to meet with the Hilo group later this month, after
that we will go to the Small Business State Commission that reviews our rules for
impacts on small businesses. And I don't see anything controversial that's going to
require anymore out of small businesses, so I expect it to go through smoothly. After
that, then we'll bring it back to the Commission to go through public hearings, and
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 30 OF 32
hopefully it will be done by the end of the year. Once it comes back from the Small
Business Commission, you folks will have a chance to send it out for public hearing.
I'll say usually not too many people attend, but you folks will have a chance to kind of
weigh in on other things you want to see in place, and then I'm going to shoot for
hopefully before December, or by December, we'll have the public hearings in place.
Frenz: And you're running it in the paper prior to the public hearing, right?
Takase: Yes. So, in fact I think maybe I' I I try to do it in December.
Taniguchi: So that's specific to Counties then, each County does their own?
Takase: Yes. So, we're governed by the State's statutes 281, but also we have local
rules and regulations, which a lot of it is redundant but just easier to deal with rather
than try to revamp the whole thing. And, if I get rid of all our rules, then we have to rely
on the State's one, which we don't necessarily have control over a lot of times, so it
works.
Okabe: The public hearings are going to be where? In Kona?
Takase: Probably Hilo and Kona.
Okabe: Two places, on the same day?
Takase: No.
Okabe: Another day?
Takase: Yes.
Okabe: In the evening?
Takase: I haven't decided yet, probably in the afternoon. So, we would have our
meeting in the morning, and then the public hearing in the afternoon.
Greenwell: Gerald, do not relinquish anything to the State.
Takase: We're trying not to but some of our counterparts are having trouble, so
licensees always run to the State to get changes made. I got asked to move to Maui.
Frenz: I just want to note, there's a recent Hawaii Supreme Court case that I will
ensure this Commission works into its rule -making process for Ka Pa`akai. It's a part of
the process we have to go through and ensure that we implement it and flush it out so
that we can indicate that we have complied as a part of our rule -making process. So, I'll
make sure that I provide that necessary information, it's a step we have to go through
under a recent Supreme Court case.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 2024 - HILO PAGE 31 OF 32
Takase: Is it the language?
Frenz: Yes, it's just a small articulation we have to do to ensure that we have put it out
there to make sure that we have provided a platform for them to give feedback for
consideration, as a part of our rule -making process for everybody that does rule -making.
Nishimoto: Anything else, any other announcements?
There were no further announcements.
X. Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 10:34 A.M. Nh�"
Irald Takase
Director
The July 3, 2024 meeting minutes were approved as circulated, via email on
July 25, 2024, by the Liquor Commission of the County of Hawaii on August 1, 2024.
MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - WEDNESDAY, JULV 3, 2024 - HILO PAGE 32 OF 32