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Home My WebLink About2025-08-07 Liquor Commission Minutes KonaCOUNTY OF HAWAI`I DEPARTMENT OF LIQUOR CONTROL LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES — AUGUST 7, 2025 HANAMA PLACE 75-5706 KUAKINI HIGHWAY SUITE 107 KAI LUA-KONA, HAWAI `I I. Call to Order The meeting was called to order by Chair Okabe at 10:00 A.M., in the Kona Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Suite 107, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. The following were present and constituted a quorum: Commissioners: Wil Okabe, Chair David Greenwell, Vice Chair Gene Nakashima, Commissioner Laurisa Nishimoto, Commissioner Alan Okamoto, Commissioner Arthur Taniguchi, Commissioner Melvin Ventura, Commissioner Jennifer Yadao, Commissioner Absent and Excused: None Others Present: Gerald Takase, Director Brandon Gonzalez, Administrative Officer Keyra Wong, Deputy Corporation Counsel Stacie Waltjen, Licensing Officer Zoeann Bertelmann, Licensing Technician Hau`oli Sayles, Commission Secretary Okabe: Silence your phone devices, this meeting is being recorded, speak loud and clear and one at a time so that the recording is understandable. We will now take roll, please say present when your name is called. Sayles: Vice Chair Greenwell. Greenwell: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Nakashima. Nakashima: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Nishimoto. Nishimoto: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Okamoto. Okamoto: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Taniguchi. Taniguchi: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Ventura. Ventura: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Yadao. Yadao: Present. Sayles: Chair Okabe. Okabe: Present. Sayles: Others present are Director Gerald Takase, Administrative Officer Brandon Gonzalez, Deputy Corporation Counsel Keyra Wong, Licensing Officer Stacie Waltjen, Licensing Technician Zoe Bertelmann, and Commission Secretary Hau`oli Sayles. Okabe: Thank you. At this time, I'd like to welcome our newest member to the Commission, Mr. Alan Okamoto who represents District 7 from Kona, thank you. Okamoto: Thank you. II. Approval of Minutes —July 3, 2025 (10:01AM) Okabe: At this time I'd like to entertain a motion to approve the minutes from July 3rd Taniguchi: Move to approve. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the July 3, 2025, Liquor Commission meeting minutes as circulated; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 2 OF 49 Okabe: Any discussion to the minutes? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. III. Approval of Addendum and/or Supplemental Agenda (10:01 AM) Okabe: There is no addendum or supplemental agenda. IV. Public Statements on Agenda Items (10:01 AM) Okabe: Any statements from the public at this time? There were no statements from members of the public. V. Public Hearings (10:01 AM) 1. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:01 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TM K: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 24-35 Duke's Kona LLC D u ke's Kona Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa, 78-128 `Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 7-8-010-038 Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2 Representing applicant: Robert Ueoka, Esq., Authorized Agent, and Jackie Reed, Chief Executive Officer of TS Restaurants. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 3 OF 49 Ueoka: Good morning, Mr. Chair, members of the Commission, Mr. Takase, Robert Ueoka on behalf of Duke's Kona, present to my right is Ms. Jackie Reed, she is the Chief Executive Officer of TS Restaurants. Okabe: Can you please also state your name and the relationship to the business? Reed: My name is Jackie Reed, Chief Executive Officer for TS Restaurants. Okabe: Okay, can you describe your business? Ueoka: If I could, Mr. Chair, it's a typical Duke's Restaurant similar to Duke's Waikiki, we're going to be located in Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa, we're taking over Ray's on the Bay. So, it's that old location that we are excited to get into the Kona market. We're going to have typical like the other restaurants, Hawaiian -style food, fresh fish, seafood, and steaks, and kind of the same and similar business plan like other Duke's restaurants. We also have restaurants on Maui, Honolulu of course, and Kauai, so we're very excited to get open. We're looking at second quarter 2026 opening currently under construction, so we will do inspections once construction is complete, and get the liquor license issued before opening if all goes well. But we're happy that the Department got our application through so early and it's good to be ahead of the curve as far as getting this liquor license process at this stage right now. We're excited to get open and looking forward to having another Duke's in Kona. Okabe: Okay. Have you received the application report? Ueoka: We did, no changes to the application report. Okabe: Okay, Director, are there any protests? Takase: Mister Chairman, the applicant mailed 13 out of 13 notices within 100 feet, 318 out of 318 notices within 500 feet. There was 1 notice to a condominium or cooperative property manager. There were 174 total properties entitled to protest, we received no protests to the application. Okabe: Any public testimony in regards to this applicant? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. Commissioners, do you have any questions or discussions on this? Ventura: I have a question, Mr. Chair. So, how long has the space been sitting vacant? Ueoka: I'm not sure, my client is actually Outrigger as well, but I would say it's been vacant ever since I've been known, so at least 5-10 years, Gerald? I'm not sure. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 4 OF 49 Reed: I was told 2019, it's been vacant since then but that was just told to me, I'm not ce rta i n . Gonzalez: Depends on the definition of vacant, the hotel was utilizing it as a banquet area. They may not have had a restaurant operating in the space though. Ventura: Thanks. Okabe: Any other questions, Commissioners? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, Commissioners, can I please have a motion to close public hearing? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to close the public hearing. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to close the public hearing; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Okay, any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: Can I also entertain a motion to approve or deny Application No. 24-35, pending final inspection? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 5 OF 49 Greenwell: This is Greenwell, move to approve Application No. 24-35, pending final inspection. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve Application No. 24-35, Duke's Kona LLC, dba Duke's Kona, for an Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa, 78-128 `Ehukai Street, Kailua- Kona, Hawaii, TMK: 7-8-010-038, pending final inspection; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Okay, moved and seconded, any discussion Commissioners to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 2. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:05 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: T24-38 NC Oceanview Inc. Island Lava Java Coconut Grove Marketplace, 75-5801 Ali`i Drive, Building A, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 7-5-009:028 Sale and Transfer of the Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, currently held by Island Lava Java LLC, dba Island Lava Java Representing applicant: Xiaolan Chen, Co-owner, and Woon Ku Wi, Operating Manager MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 6 OF 49 Okabe: Can you please introduce yourself and the relationship to the business? Wi: My name is Woon Ku Wi, I'm Operating Manager at Island Lava Java. Chen: Yes, name is Xiaolan Chen, Owner of Island Lava Java. Okabe: Can you please describe your business? Wi: Yes, our business is a traditional American, serving traditional types of American food, we have brunch, lunch, and dinner, and we have full bars and open seating tables outside next to the ocean view. Okabe: Have you received the application report? Chen: Yes. Okabe: Okay, are there any changes to the report? Chen: No. Okabe: Okay, Director, have there been any other protests? Takase: Mister Chairman, the applicant mailed 8 out of 8 notices within 100 feet, 392 out of 396 notices within 500 feet, and 2 notices to condominium of cooperative apartment managers. There were 244 properties entitled to protest, we received no protests to this application. Okabe: Any public testimony on this applicant? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. Any Commissioners have any questions or discussion in regards to this applicant? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, Commissioners, can I please have a motion to close the public hearing? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to close the public hearing. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to close the public hearing; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Okay, moved and seconded, discussion on the motion? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 7 OF 49 There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: Commissioners, can I have a motion to approve or deny Application No. T24-38, pending final inspection? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, move to approve Application No. T24-38, pending final inspection. Ventura: Ventura, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application No. T24-38, NC Oceanview Inc., dba Island Lava Java, for a Sale and Transfer of the Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, currently held by Island Lava Java LLC, dba Island Lava Java, located at 75-5801 Ah'i Drive, Building A, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, TMK: 7-5-009:028, pending final inspection; Seconded by Commissioner Ventura. Okabe: Okay, moved and seconded, discussion on the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 8 OF 49 Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 3. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:08 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TM K: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 24-39 Papale LLC Patina Queens' MarketPlace, 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Suite EVE2, Waikoloa, Hawaii 6-9-008:017 Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B 1 Representing applicant: Keith Pajinag, Owner. Okabe: Can you please state your name and the relationship to the business? Pajinag: My name is Keith Pajinag, and I'm the owner. Okabe: Can you please describe your business? Pajinag: Yes, it will be a full -service restaurant with a bar, evenings only. Okabe: Have you received the application report? Pajinag: Yes. Okabe: Are there any changes to the report? Pajinag: No, sir. Okabe: Director, are there any reports of protests? Takase: Mister Chairman, the applicant mailed 1 out of 1 notice within 100 feet, 5 out of 5 notices within 500 feet. There were 5 properties entitled to protest, we received no protests to this application. Okabe: Any public testimony on this applicant? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. Commissioners, do you have any questions or discussion? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 9 OF 49 Taniguchi: I have a question, so I'm looking at the picture, is this at the, which end is it at? Was somebody else in there previously? Pajinag: It was previously Charley's Thai Cuisine. Taniguchi: Oh okay. Okabe: Any other questions? There was no further discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Commissioners, can I please have a motion to close public hearing? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to close the public hearing. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to close the public hearing; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Okay, any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve or deny Application No. 24-39, pending final inspection? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, move to approve Application No. 24-39, pending final inspection. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 10 OF 49 Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application No. 24-39, Papale LLC, dba Patina, for an Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category 131, located at the Queens' MarketPlace, 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Suite EVE2, Waikoloa, Hawaii, TMK: 6-9-008:017, pending final inspection; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Moved and seconded, discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 4. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:10 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 24-40 Johnson Brothers of Hawaii, Inc. Johnson Brothers of Hawaii 73-5627 Maiau Street, Units #1-5, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 7-3-051:115 Original Wholesale General liquor license Representing applicant: Lincoln Ashida, Esq., Authorized Agent, Miles Jones, Statewide General Manager, and Nick Cranwell, Island Director. Okabe: Applicant come up and state your name and the relationship to the business. Ashida: Good morning Chair Okabe, Members of the Hawaii County Liquor Commission, my name is Lincoln Ashida, I'm the attorney for Johnson Brothers. Present with me this morning, please meet Mr. Miles Jones, he is the General Manager statewide of Johnson Brothers, and right behind us here is Nick Cranwell, his title is MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 11 OF 49 Island Director, so he's basically the big boss when it comes to the Big Island. You know, Johnson Brothers was founded in 1953 in St. Paul, Minessota. They operate think in 22 different states, they started their Hawaii operations in 1988, that's a long time ago when they began service here in Hawaii. And they have a long distinguished history, what sets them apart from I think most wholesalers distributors is their commitment to customer service, even as wholesalers, not frontline retailers. It's their customer service, what we call "Aloha" that they show especially Hawaii but think brands them and provides for them tremendous success. For the record, we acknowledge receipt of the application report dated May 27, 2025, we have no substintive additions nor corrections. We submit to the Commission if the have any questions for Mr. Jones, Mr. Cranwell, or myself. Okabe: Thank you. You have anything to add? Jones: No, I think he covered it. Okabe: Director, you have any reports of protests? Takase: Mister Chairman, the applicant mailed 14 out of 14 notices within 100 feet, 64 out of 64 notices within 500 feet, and 4 notices to condominium or cooperative apartment managers. We had 64 properties entitled to protest, we received no protests to the application. Okabe: Okay, is there any public testimony? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. Commissioners, do you have any discussion or questions for this applicant? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Takase: Mr. Jones, how hard is it for you guys to pick up other lines in the State? And the reason I ask is we get calls from manufacturers wanting to come into the State but you know like, RNDC and Southern, they kind of locking everybody out. So, can you do it at this level, or you gotta go through your national? Jones: No, we can bring on new suppliers at my level with my authorization for the State of Hawaii. We do have local suppliers that are unique just to Hawaii, we also have national partners, suppliers that have partnered with us in all 22 states for Johnson Brothers. To answer your question, we would be open to having any conversation with a new producer that wants to enter the market, we probably share the sentiments of RNDC, Reyes, and Southern, in that there is a lot of market consolidation, so the larger suppliers are getting bigger, the smaller suppliers are getting smaller. And, we're also seeing a bit of a market contraction in terms of people drinking and habits of our customers. So, we would always be willing, if I can give you my card, I'd love to pass along anyone who wants to come into Hawaii, especially if it's a local opportunity. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 12 OF 49 mean, we have not turned down any locals suppliers, you know that's one of our, I think everyone here knows how popular the local spirits and wines and products are here. So, I'd be happy to take a look, but I think that you're seeing, because of that contraction in the market, because of that expansion, it is more challenging. We were probably saying no to small suppliers today that we would have brought on five years ago. But this is typically what we're talking about smaller wineries from California or spirit producers from overseas. From a local opportunity, there's always entertainment for that. I hope I answered your question. Takase: Yes, thank you. Okabe: The Director's question is often asked when we go to conferences and about distribution, so that was a great question. Any other questions by Commissioners? There was no further discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, can I have a motion to close public hearing? Taniguchi: I move to close public hearing. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to close the public hearing; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Moved and seconded, discussion on the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 13 OF 49 Okabe: I'd like to get a motion to approve or deny Application No. 24-40, pending final inspection. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, move to approve Application No. 24-40, pending final inspection. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application No. 24-40, Johnson Brothers of Hawaii, Inc., dba Johnson Brothers of Hawaii, for an Original Wholesale General liquor license, located at 73-5627 Maiau Street, Units #1-5, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, TMK: 7-3-051:115, pending final inspection; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. VI. Preliminary Hearings (10:17 AM) 1. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10: 17 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 24-42 Sean's Kitchen LLC Sean's Kitchen 75-5660 Kopiko Street, Suite B5 and B6, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 7-5-004:011 Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category 131 MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 14 OF 49 Representing applicant: Jiao Jiao Cai, and Xinxiong He, Owners. Okabe: I'd like to ask to state your name as the representative, and please share with us your relationship to the business. Cai : Hi, my name Jiao Jiao Cai, we're the owners of Sean's Kitchen, this is my husband Sean, his Chinese name is Xinxiong He. Okabe: Can you please describe your business? Cai: We're a Japanese restaurant with sushi and teriyaki grill stuff, and we want to add the liquor. Okabe: Okay, have you received the application report? Cai: Yes. Okabe: Okay, are there any changes to the report? Cai: No. Okabe: No changes. Okay, any public testimony on this applicant? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. Commissioners, do you have any questions? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, okay can I have a motion to approve or deny Application No. 24-42? If approved, public hearing to be held on October 2nd, here in Kona again. Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to approve Application No. 24-42, with a public hearing to be held here on October 2, 2025, in Kona. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve Application No. 24-42, Sean's Kitchen LLC, dba Sean's Kitchen, for an Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at 75-5660 Kopiko Street, Suite B5 and B6, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, TMK: 7-5-004:011, with public hearing to be held on October 2, 2025, in Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Moved and seconded, any discussion to the motion? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 15 OF 49 There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: None, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. NEXT TWO ITEMS WERE TAKEN AT ONCE 2. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:19 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: AND 3. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 25-01 Big Island Booch Inc. The Booch Bar 230 Kekuanaoa Street, Hilo, Hawaii 2-2-054:031 Original Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category A 25-02 Big Island Booch Inc. The Booch Bar 110 Keawe Street, Hilo, H awa i `i 2-3-005:008 Adding its current Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, as an additional location to its pending Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category A, located at 230 Kekuanaoa Street, Hilo, Hawaii; Increase in Licensed Premises to include an adjacent unit consisting of 1,200 square feet, and a Change in Category to B2, from its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1 Representing applicant: Brenden Roberts, Co-owner. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 16 OF 49 Okabe: Please state your name and relationship to the business. Roberts: My name is Brenden Roberts, I am the Chief Financial Officer and President of Big Island Booch Inc., and The Booch Bar. We've been operating our business, which is a wholesale and non-alcoholic beverage company, we make kombucha tea, as well as a local farm -to -table casual dining restaurant in Hilo, we've been doing that for about the past ten years. Now, we're seeking to make hard kombucha products in addition to the products that we already make. We're going to be serving them in our restaurant as well as, distributing to local vendors throughout the State. Okabe: Have you received the application reports? Roberts: Yes, I have. Okabe: Are there any changes? Roberts: No, those are all correct. Okabe: Any public testimony for this applicant? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. Commissioners, do you have any discussion or questions? Taniguchi: What kind of alcohol, or what goes into your new product? Roberts: So kombucha tea is generally a non-alcoholic beverage and it's fermented tea, instead of being fermented with yeast, it's fermented with a culture like yogurt or sauerkraut or kimchee. And, the hard kombucha is very similar, we essentially take regular kombucha, then we referment it with a brewers yeast, an additional sugar source, and that brings the alcohol level up somewhere between like 5 and 6%, is about what's going on there. And so, you know different flavors, you'll see hard kombucha products, you know lots of imports on the market. As far as I know, there's nobody locally in Hawaii that is making hard kombucha right now. Taniguchi: Thank you. Ventura: How much time does it add to the process? Roberts: It adds about two weeks to the process, so we were looking at about a four -week process, now we're looking at a six -week process. And then it's complete but for quality we actually like to age it in the package for another couple weeks before that, it's about two months. Ventura: And then, what percentage of your product are you planning to be alcoholic vs. non-alcoholic? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 17 OF 49 Roberts: Well you know, I guess the market is really going to tell, we're pretty well saturated with our non-alcoholic products, like we sell pallets to Costco, and we're in all the major grocery. I don't know if our other products will make it that far, but we are prepared for it to end up being, you know somewhere near half of our business. Ventura: Thanks. Okabe: Any other questions, Commissioners? There was no further discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, can I have a motion to approve or deny Application Nos. 25-01 and 25-02? If approved, public hearing to be held on October 2, 2025, in Kona. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, move to approve Application Nos. 25-01 and 25-02. If approved, public hearings to be held on October 2, 2025, in Kona. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application Nos. 25-01 and 25-029 Big Island Booch Inc., dba The Booch Bar, for an Original Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category A, located at 230 Kekuanaoa Street, Hilo, Hawaii, TMK: 2-2-054:031, AND for adding its current Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, as an additional location to its pending Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category A, located at 230 Kekuanaoa Street, Hilo, Hawaii; Increase in Licensed Premises to include an adjacent unit consisting of 1,200 square feet, and a Change in Category to B2, from its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at 110 Keawe Street, Hilo, Hawaii, TMK: 2-3-005:008; with public hearings to be held on October 2, 2025, in Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Moved and seconded, discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 18 OF 49 There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. VII. Unfinished Business (10:24 AM) Okabe: There is no Unfinished Business at this time. VIII. New Business (10:24AM) 1. Change in Officers/Directors/Members/Managers Submitted for Approval a. RMG Waikoloa, LLC, dba Romano's Macaroni Grill, approval of Change in Members and Application for Transfer of Membership (10: 24 AM) Interest as follows: • Removal of RMG Acquisition Company, LLC, Member; • Appointment of Manna Restaurant Group LLC, as Member; • Transfer of 100% Membership Interest from RMG Acquisition Company, LLC to Manna Restaurant Group LLC; • Personal History and Affidavit for Jason Roe, Member of Manna Restaurant Group LLC; effective July 12, 2024, by forms received June 13, 2025; of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at the Queens' MarketPlace, 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Suite 1010, Waikoloa, Hawaii. LICENSEE REQUESTED CONTINUANCE TO THE NEXT HEARING Takase: Mr. Chairman, why don't we continue this matter to the next meeting. Okabe: Okay, so Commissioners, if I can have a motion to continue this to the next meeting in Hilo? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to continue to our next meeting in Hilo. Okabe: Can I have a second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 19 OF 49 Commissioner Greenwell moved to continue this matter to the next meeting on September 4, 205, in Hilo; Change in Members and Application for Transfer of Membership Interest as follows: Removal of RMG Acquisition Company, LLC, Member; Appointment of Manna Restaurant Group LLC, as Member; Transfer of 100% Membership Interest from RMG Acquisition Company, LLC to Manna Restaurant Group LLC; Personal History and Affidavit for Jason Roe, Member of Manna Restaurant Group LLC; effective July 12, 20249 by forms received June 13, 2025; of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category 131, located at the Queens' MarketPlace, 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Suite 1010, Waikoloa, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 20 OF 49 b. Holoholo Brewing Company LLC, dba Holoholo Brewing Company, approval of Change in Managers and Application for Transfer of (10:26 AM) Membership Interest as follows: • Removal of Laurie Jeffries, Manager, effective December 12, 2023; • Removal of Ronald Jeffries, Manager, effective September 19, 2024; • Appointment of Koleagold Holdings LLC, as Manager, effective September 12, 2024; • Appointment of Kainoa Jimenez, as Manager, effective September 12, 2024; • Appointment of Naka Nui Holdings Inc., as Manager, effective September 26, 2024; • Transfer of 9.67% Membership Interest from Ronald Jeffries to Naka Nui Holdings, Inc., effective September 26, 2024; • Personal History and Affidavits for Kainoa Jimenez, Manager, and Melvin Mason, Jr., President, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and Director of Naka Nui Holdings Inc.; by forms received June 30, 2025; of its Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category A, located at 275 East Kawili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. Representing licensee: Melvin Mason, Jr., and Kainoa Jimenez, Managers Okabe: Can you please state your name and the relationship to the business? Mason: Sure, Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, Commissioners, Director, my name is Melvin Mason, and I'm the Director, CEO (Chief Executive Officer), President of Naka Nui Holdings, to become the Manager of Holoholo Brewing Company. Jimenez: Aloha Director and Chair, and also Commissioners, nice to meet you folks, my name is Kainoa Jimenez, also looking to become Manager and owner of Holoholo Brewing Company, also part -member of Naka Nui Holdings, and Koleagold Holdings LLC. Okabe: Okay, can you please describe your business? Mason: Yes, the Naka Nui company is a holding company, a C corporation was created on behalf to alleviate, to help manage Holoholo Brewing Company as of last year. The reason too, why it was also created was the previous owner had passed away unfortunately, Ron Jeffries. And, for us how we got involved was because our relationship with Broken Boundary Brewery on `O`ahu, which is also called Kalihi Beer, was expanding. And at the time, because of the capacity of that brewery on `O`ahu wasn't big enough, we had found and I had met last year in July at the Brewfest, Mr. Jeffries. And because he had purchased from the Shindo Family that started the MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 21 OF 49 Mehana Brewery with this license that we're actually looking for, had brewed in time. And, when he had purchased the company back in 2022, and took over in 2023 of think it was about May, and but in that time era he ended up falling ill unfortunately. And when we got introduced, we actually came on board to help to assist in managing the company. And I left the islands for a little bit, and I came back because he ended up in the hospital. So, when we took over management, we got everything cleared at the end of August, and September 5t" was the first day we took over management. And, within two and a half weeks that we managed, we grew the company because we started to actually manufacture and even take it to the next level, but that month he had passed. So, where we're at right now is transitioning the ownership so we can fit in two other investors that had invested in the company, and transition while we take over the management point. Again, also unfortunate, the location, the landlord Mrs. Shindo did not want to continue because they had too much memories, and too many things over the years of different ownerships, that she wanted to have the place closed. So, what we had done, we pushed it through an auction, and I bought mostly everything, and my nephew and I, we took in management and where we're at right now, we actually have a securing to open up a new location in Shipman. We just got the permits, a friend of mine who is building the warehouse, it's a 12,000 square foot warehouse, and where we're at right now, we're negotiating the lease. But we already got the permit to start building, and what we're hoping is to be opened up by next year March. The problem we have right now is because the situation we're at with the location, we're looking at where Maui Brewing and Kona Brewing is willing to help us to make our brand of beer, and because we do have, how can I say this, I guess we're not dressed up but we have a lot of places to go. And one of which, how I got involved with Kalihi Beer was you know, being one Hawaiian local boy from Honoka`a, born and raised here, we always drink literally lager beer, Steinlager or Heineken, right? So, when I went to that brewery, he had no lager. So, my friend, Vincent Kimura, took me there and I told the guys, I said, "Brah, this place look like one hobby to me, as an investor, how can I invest to make money?" And unfortunately, one of the things I told him, I said make me a lager and we see what we can do. He started, he did it in 2022, the lager had launched within three months, had become the No. 1 beer in the company, and the company had grew 65%, because we launched a lager, and the name that I had actually named it was called Ha Wai Nei Can. And yes, we got on the radar of Heineken, we got served by the lawyers out of New York City, but it wasn't a decease and desist, it was a confusion letter. And unreluctantly, because the difference is we put it in an aluminum can with a gold label, and when talked to the lawyers and stuff, we had a long conversation, but the thing that for me was because I'm maka `olelo Hawaii nei nui too, I speak in Hawaiian. They ask me where the name came from, I go well you know, out of inspiration, it's not really Heineken, it's because the word Ha Wai Nei Can means "Ha", means soul or spirit, "Wai" means water, MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 22 OF 49 and "Nei Can" in the Pidgin language that we have in Hawaii means "in da can." So, spirit water in the can, so they backed off you know, they sent a second letter, but the thing what we found was Odom was the one that turned us in, and because we took over the space. We ended up all in the Aloha gas stations, we was in the Hele gas stations, we was in ABC Stores, we was taking over the shelves. So, for me was more pushing a lager that was made in Hawaii, and was Hawai`i's lager, and we did them. So, the cat that coming out of the bag now, we in negotiation, finalizing a contract to label with UH (University of Hawaii) Manoa and the Vulcans in Hilo once the lager is in the brand, so our problem is we have places to go to put the beer but the problem is making it. But because who Ron Jeffries was and the person he is, and everybody asked us why did we do it, to be honest, I seen a man who needed help, besides us needing help to make beer. And when he asked me that he said, "I want to live my whole life in Hawaii, and it was my dream to come here and make beer." And me being Hawaiian, I said so how serious is that? And he goes, you know maybe I want to die here. And then he said, you know if you could help me and work with us, we actually did a handshake, and a promise that I made to him. You know, I never really got paid, or getting paid for it but for me, a few things in this is because also the licenses come from a local family that built something. And I know the problem of what's happening today now is that the next generation, a lot of businesses are closing and there's no successorships. So, the push for us in here in making a beer, because I love to drink beer too, and is to be able to sustain this. And, you know for that I think it's a long story short, but it's on a promise to fulfil and we're going to do it. The commitments we have right now, we're going to build brand new, but in the meantime, Maui Brewing is willing to do two skews for us, and then over here, they're open to what they can actually help us do to make the brand. Mahalo. Okabe: Mr. Mason, this is the best description of a person's business I've ever heard, good job. Mason: Mahalo. Okabe: Commissioners, do you have any questions? Nishimoto: I have a like a silly question, how do you spell the Ha Wai Nei Can? Mason: Ha Wai Nei Can is H-A-W-A-1-N-E-1-C-A-N. Nishimoto: That's interesting, thank you. Taniguchi: So, is that being sold now? Mason: Yes, there is still some. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 23 OF 49 Taniguchi: Where, I've never seen it. Where is it? Mason: Mostly was on `O`ahu, but the problem in between with Kalihi Beer when I had met Ron Jeffries was every time our beer was in Kadota's, they really believed in what we were doing and being a local boy too, it was like every time we had an order, took him two months to make it to supply us you know. So, he was like, wow two months it's like, so I told him I said maybe we got to order for the next year so you cannot be two months behind. But that is how we ended up being at the place with Mehana Brewing. The thing I want to thank also is Stacie and Zoe them, when we took over management, it was pretty quick for us to be able to when I called, to have a place that you could call home. And for me it's like the old days, you drinking in the garage, you know the kids there, grandparents, you know the families there. And where Mehana Brewing was, was once that where ohana could get together, and we when do it, and we had the support with Gerald the Director, that when we got to have live music, we got the Awa Band, the thing when takeoff, and we had families there, you know. And the thing that we had done was, I monitored when it came to these things, I never drink, I just monitored. And our first hurrah was on the following Thursday after we got the clearance to do live music, we had over 300 something people. And we drove five people home, we left their car, we took the keys away, eh uncle you cannot drive but you know, we can take you home, my nephews they going drive you. And that's the thing that we also wanted to do is not just be a place where you can drink is you can be safe. And you know for us, taking them home is okay, we don't even charge, we'll see you tomorrow. So, but yes, so that's what we want to reestablish there in Shipman and eventually grow in other locations. Okabe: Good. Mason: Mahalo. Okabe: Okay, Commissioners, do you have any more questions? There was no further discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, can I have a motion to approve Change in Managers, and Transfer of Membership Interest? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to approve Change in Managers and Transfer of the Membership Interest.so moved. Ventura: Second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 24 OF 49 Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the Change in Managers and Application for Transfer of Membership Interest as follows: Removal of Laurie Jeffries, Manager, effective December 12, 2023; Removal of Ronald Jeffries, Manager, effective September 19, 2024; Appointment of Koleagold Holdings LLC, as Manager, effective September 12, 2024; Appointment of Kainoa Jimenez, as Manager, effective September 12, 2024; Appointment of Naka Nui Holdings Inc., as Manager, effective September 26, 2024; Transfer of 9.67% Membership Interest from Ronald Jeffries to Naka Nui Holdings, Inc., effective September 26, 2024; Personal History and Affidavits for Kainoa Jimenez, Manager, and Melvin Mason, Jr., President, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and Director of Naka Nui Holdings Inc.; by forms received June 30, 2025; of its Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category A, located at 275 East Kawili Street, Hilo, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Ventura. Okabe: Moved and seconded, is there any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 25 OF 49 C. Waikoloa Village Association, dba Waikoloa Village Golf Course, approval of Change in Officers/Directors as follows: (10:38 AM) • Removal of William Campbell, Director; • Removal of Rebecca Sckrabulis, President; • Removal of Michael Konowicz, Director; • Removal of David Berg, Treasurer; • Appointment of Frank Even, as Director; • Appointment of Aislinn Chalker, as Director; • Appointment of Robert Yagi, as Treasurer; • Change in Title of Arlene Larrua, from Vice President to President; • Change in Title of Dan Richards, from Secretary to Vice President; • Change in Title of Dean Au, from Director to Secretary; • Personal History and Affidavits for Frank Even, Director; Aislinn Chalker, Director; and Robert Yagi, Treasurer; effective May 10, 2025, by form received June 18, 2025; of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at 68-1792 Melia Street, Waikoloa, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to approve. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the Change in Officers/Directors as follows: Removal of William Campbell, Director; Removal of Rebecca Sckrabulis, President; Removal of Michael Konowicz, Director; Removal of David Berg, Treasurer; Appointment of Frank Even, as Director; Appointment of Aislinn Chalker, as Director; Appointment of Robert Yagi, as Treasurer; Change in Title of Arlene Larrua, from Vice President to President; Change in Title of Dan Richards, from Secretary to Vice President; Change in Title of Dean Au, from Director to Secretary; Personal History and Affidavits for Frank Even, Director; Aislinn Chalker, Director; and Robert Yagi, Treasurer; effective May 10, 2025, by form received June 18, 2025; of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at 68-1792 Melia Street, Waikoloa, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 26 OF 49 Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. d. Seven -Eleven Hawaii, Inc., dba 7-Eleven Stores (Kaumana) #54136, dba 7-Eleven Stores (Kawili) #54258, dba 7-Eleven Stores (Keaau) (10:39 AM) #54284, dba 7-Eleven Stores (Kilauea) #54138, dba 7-Eleven Stores (Kinoole) #54222, dba 7-Eleven Stores (Kurtistown) #54277, dba 7-Eleven Stores (Pahoa) #54284, approval of Change in Directors as follows: • Removal of Ryuichi Isaka, and Fumihiko Nagamatsu, Directors; • Appointment of Tomohiro Akutsu, and Hiroki Takei, as Directors; effective June 1, 2025) by form received June 24, 2025; of its Retail General liquor licenses, for all Hawaii Island store locations. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve? Okamoto: Okamoto, move to approve. Okabe: Okay, second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Okamoto moved to approve the Change in Directors as follows: Removal of Ryuichi Isaka, and Fumihiko Nagamatsu, Directors; Appointment of Tomohiro Akutsu, and Hiroki Takei, as Directors; effective June 1, 2025, by form received June 24, 2025; of its Retail General liquor licenses, for all Hawaii Island store locations; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 27 OF 49 Okabe: Moved and seconded, any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. e. Hilo Yacht Club, dba Hilo Yacht Club, approval of Change in Directors as follows: (10:40 AM) • Appointment of Grant Omura, as Director, effective May 29, 2025, by form received July 2, 2025; • Personal History and Affidavit for Grant Omura, Director; of its Club liquor license, Category B2, located at 77 Laehala Street, Hilo, Hawaii. Okabe: Motion to approve? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to approve. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the Change in Directors as follows: Appointment of Grant Omura, as Director, effective May 29, 2025, by form received July 2, 2025; Personal History and Affidavit for Grant Omura, Director; of its Club liquor license, Category B2, located at 77 Laehala Street, Hilo, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 28 OF 49 There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: Opposed say "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. f. Accor Management US Inc., dba The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii, approval of Change in Officers, with the removal of Barbara Kilner, (10:40 AM) Senior Vice President and General Counsel; effective June 25, 2025, by form received July 3, 2025; of its Hotel liquor license, located at One North Kaniku Drive, Kohala Coast, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to approve. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve the Change in Officers, with the removal of Barbara Kilner, Senior Vice President and General Counsel; effective June 25, 2025, by form received July 3, 2025; of its Hotel liquor license, located at One North Kaniku Drive, Kohala Coast, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Moved and seconded, any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: All those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 29 OF 49 Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. g. Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits, LLC, dba Southern Glazer's of HI/SGWS, approval of Change in Managers as follows: (10:41 AM) • Removal of Bennett Glazer, Manager; • Appointment of Samuel Glazer, as Manager; • Personal History and Affidavit for Samuel Glazer, Manager; effective June 15, 2025) by form received July 15, 2025; of its Wholesale General liquor license, located at 61-3785 Maluokalani Place, Kawaihae, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I please have a motion to approve? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to approve. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve the Change in Managers as follows: Removal of Bennett Glazer, Manager; Appointment of Samuel Glazer, as Manager; Personal History and Affidavit for Samuel Glazer, Manager; effective June 15, 2025, by form received July 15, 2025; of its Wholesale General liquor license, located at 61-3785 Maluokalani Place, Kawaihae, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Moved and seconded. There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: All those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 30 OF 49 Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. h. Alibi Tavern Incorporated, dba Alibi Tavern Inc., approval of Change in Officers/Directors and Application for Transfer of Stock as follows: (10:41 AM) • Removal of Lloyd Eggstaff, President; • Removal of Dawn Eggstaff, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer; • Appointment of Jobe Leialoha, as President, Treasurer, and Director; • Appointment of Castly Dingle, as Vice President and Assistant Treasurer; • Appointment of Ikaika Galinato, as Secretary; • Transfer of the 50% stock shares held by Lloyd and Dawn Eggstaff to Jobe Leialoha (17%), Castly Dingle (16.5%), and Ikaika Galinato (16.5%); the remaining 50% shares are currently held by Alibi Tavern Incorporated; • Personal History and Affidavits for Jobe Leialoha, President, Treasurer, and Director; Castly Dingle, Vice President and Assistant Treasurer; and Ikaika Galinato, Secretary; effective July 8, 2025, by forms received July 17, 2025; of its Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, located at the Kea`au Plaza, 16-566 Pahoa Highway, #5, Kea`au, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to approve. Taniguchi: Second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 31 OF 49 Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve the Change in Officers/Directors and Application for Transfer of Stock as follows: Removal of Lloyd Eggstaff, President; Removal of Dawn Eggstaff, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer; Appointment of Jobe Leialoha, as President, Treasurer, and Director; Appointment of Castly Dingle, as Vice President and Assistant Treasurer; Appointment of Ikaika Galinato, as Secretary; Transfer of the 50% stock shares held by Lloyd and Dawn Eggstaff to Jobe Leialoha (17%), Castly Dingle (16.5%), and Ikaika Galinato (16.5%); the remaining 50% shares are currently held by Alibi Tavern Incorporated; Personal History and Affidavits for Jobe Leialoha, President, Treasurer, and Director; Castly Dingle, Vice President and Assistant Treasurer; and Ikaika Galinato, Secretary; effective July 8, 2025, by forms received July 17, 2025; of its Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, located at the Kea`au Plaza, 16-566 Pahoa Highway, #5, Kea`au, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Is there any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: Opposed please say "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 32 OF 49 i. Kowa Premium Foods Hawaii Corporation, dba Kowa Premium Foods Hawaii Corporation, approval of Change in Officers/Directors and Application for Transfer of Stock as follows: (10:42 AM) • Removal of Soichi Oda, President and Director; • Removal of Satoshi Yoshida, Vice President and Director; • Removal of Taishi Kurihara, Secretary, Treasurer, and Director; • Removal of Yasuo Nomura, Director; • Appointment of Masakazu Idemitsu, as President and Director; • Appointment of Kazunari Kubohara, as Vice President and Director; • Appointment of Kazuki Itoh, as Secretary and Director; • Appointment of Megumi Ochi, as Treasurer and Director; • Transfer of 100% stock shares held by Kowa Company, Ltd., to Akatsuki International Corporation; • Personal History and Affidavits for Masakazu Idemitsu, President and Director; Kazunari Kubohara, Vice President and Director; Kazuki Itoh, Secretary and Director; and Megumi Ochi, Treasurer and Director; effective August 20, 2025) by forms received July 28, 2025; of its Retail General liquor license, located at 73-357 Makako Bay Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to approve. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve the Change in Officers/Directors and Application for Transfer of Stock as follows: Removal of Soichi Oda, President and Director; Removal of Satoshi Yoshida, Vice President and Director; Removal of Taishi Kurihara, Secretary, Treasurer, and Director; Removal of Yasuo Nomura, Director; Appointment of Masakazu Idemitsu, as President and Director; Appointment of Kazunari Kubohara, as Vice President and Director; Appointment of Kazuki Itoh, as Secretary and Director; Appointment of Megumi Ochi, as Treasurer and Director; Transfer of 100% stock shares held by Kowa Company, Ltd., to Akatsuki International Corporation; Personal History and Affidavits for Masakazu Idemitsu, President and Director; Kazunari Kubohara, Vice President and Director; Kazuki Itoh, Secretary and Director; and Megumi Ochi, Treasurer and Director; effective August 20, 2025, by forms received July 28, 2025; of its Retail General liquor license, located at 73-357 Makako Bay Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 33 OF 49 Okabe: Any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 2. Request to Extend the Time Issuance Submitted for Approval a. Original Thai Cuisine LLC, dba Original Thai Cuisine, approval of request to extend the time for issuance of the liquor license for good (10:42 AM) cause shown for an additional 12 months, from August 1, 2025, to and including August 1, 2026, by letter received July 28, 2025, of its Restaurant Beer and Wine liquor license, Category A, located at the Ilima Court, 75-5629 Kuakini Highway, Suite 175, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Passage for the extension request 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 the good cause is when making the motion. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve with good cause? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to approve with good cause to allow them time to file and process the proper permits. Taniguchi: Second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 34 OF 49 Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve the request to extend the time for issuance of the liquor license for good cause shown for an additional 12 months, from August 1, 2025, to and including August 1, 2026, by letter received July 28, 2025, of its Restaurant Beer and Wine liquor license, Category A, located at the I I i ma Court, 75-5629 Kuaki n i Highway, Suite 175, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Yes, you have a question to the motion? Greenwell: To the Director, was there a problem with pre-existing condition of the building, is that why they couldn't get it, was the previous owners had an extension on the building? Takase: That's what it appears, we don't know exactly when the changes were made but when the inspectors had gone in, there was unpermitted construction there. So, now the new owners are just trying to bring it into compliance. Greenwell: Okay. Okabe: All in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 35 OF 49 3. Permits Issued for Ratification (10:45 AM) a. Volcano Vineyards, LLC, dba Volcano Winery, ratification of Application for Entertainment Permits, for an event on June 28, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on June 27, 2025; for an event on July 13, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on July 10, 2025; and for events on July 26-27, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on July 28, 2025, of its Winery liquor license, Category A, located at the Volcano Golf Course Subdivision, 35 Pi`i Mauna Drive, Volcano, Hawaii. b. Kona, Hawaii, Lodge No. 2616, Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America, dba Kona Elks Club, ratification of Application for Game Permit, for an event on July 16, 2025; approved by Director Gerald Takase on July 14, 2025; of its Special General liquor license, located at 75-170 Hualalai Road, Suite E-100, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. C. Christopher Camero Memorial VFW Post 12122, dba VFW Post 12122, ratification of Application for Game Permits, for an event on August 21, 2025; and events from August 1-31, 2025; approved by Director Gerald Takase on July 23, 2025; of its Special General liquor license, located at 74-5543 Kaiwi Street, Suite 3-A185a and 3-A185b, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. d. Tropics Ale House LLC, dba Tropics Ale House, ratification of request to transfer liquor inventory to Transcontinental Development (Hawaii) Corporation, dba The Kings' Course at Waikoloa Beach Golf Club, approved by Director Gerald Takase on July 25, 2025, of its Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, located at 69-1022 Keana Place, Waikoloa, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to ratify. Ventura: Second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to ratify Permits Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 3(a) through 3(d), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Ventura. Okabe: Moved and seconded, any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 36 OF 49 The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 4. Outside Storage Permits Issued for Ratification (10:46 AM) a. Holualoa Enterprises LLC, dba Kona Style (On Board Vessel "Noa Noa"), ratification of Application for Outside Storage Permit, located at 75-5660 Palani Road, Suite C8, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, approved by Director Gerald Takase on July 1, 2025, of its Tour or Cruise Vessel liquor license, Category B1, moored at Kailua Bay Pier, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. b. LBC Volcano LLC, dba Lanikai Brewing Company, ratification of Application for Outside Storage Permit, located at 19-4005 Haunani Road, Volcano, Hawaii, approved by Director Gerald Takase on July 25, 2025, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at 19-4005 Haunani Road, Volcano, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify? Taniguchi: Moved to ratify. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to ratify Outside Storage Permits Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 4(a) and 4(b), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Moved and seconded, discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 37 OF 49 Okabe: Any opposed say "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: None, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 5. Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises Issued for Ratification (10:46 AM) a. Big Hitter Enterprises, LLC, dba Willie's Hot Chicken, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on July 12, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on July 9, 2025, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at 75-5599 Pawai Place, Bays 1 & 2, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. b. Limberg Inc., dba Oceans Sports Bar and Grill, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, to include outside grass area for events every Friday, Saturday, and holidays on June 27-July 30, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on June 27, 2025; and for events every Friday, Saturday, and holidays for 90 days starting August 1, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on July 24, 2025; of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at the Coconut Grove Marketplace, 75-5811 Ali`i Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. C. JTJ Enterprises, Inc., dba Quinn's, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on July 4, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on June 30, 2025; of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at 75-5655 Palani Road, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. d. Napua Hilo LLC, dba Lehua Restaurant at Imiloa, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on July 14, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on on July 11, 2025; and for an event on July 29, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on July 29, 2025; of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at 600 Imiloa Place, Hilo, Hawaii. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 38 OF 49 e. Island Hopper Pahoa LLC, dba Island Hopper Taproom, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on September 27, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on July 23, 2025, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at The Shops at Mauna Lani, 68-1330 Mauna Lani Drive, Suite 108, Kamuela, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to ratify. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to ratify Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 5(a) through 5(e), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 39 OF 49 6. Special Licenses Issued for Ratification (10:47 AM) a. License No. SP-25-008, Christopher Camero Memorial VFW Post 12122, dba Christopher Camero Memorial VFW Post 12122, for a Special General liquor license, for events on July 1 - September 30, 2025) held at 74-5543 Kaiwi Street, Suite 185A, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. b. License No. SP-25-009, North Kohala Community Resource Center, dba North Kohala Community Resource Center, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on August 2, 2025, held at Kamehameha Park / Hisaoka Gym. C. License No. SP-25-011, `Ewalu Inc., dba `Ewalu Industries, for a Special Beer liquor license, for an event on August 2, 2025, held at 74-5606 Pawai Place, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. d. License No. SP-25-012, Hilo Rotary Club Foundation, dba Hilo Rotary Club Foundation, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on July 12, 2025, held at the Hilo Yacht Club, 77 Laehala Street, Hilo, Hawaii. e. License No. SP-25-013, Hilo Community Players, dba Hilo Community Players, for a Special General liquor license, for events on July 10, 17, 19, 24 & 31, 2025, held at 280 Keawe Street, Hilo, Hawaii. f. License No. SP-25-014, 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 July 12, 2025, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. g. License No. SP-25-015, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba The Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for events on July 18-20, 25- 27; August 1-3 2025, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. h. License No. SP-25-016, Laupa`i, dba Laupa`i, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on September 13, 2025, held at the Afook- Chinen Civic Auditorium, 323 Manono Street, Hilo, Hawaii. i. License No. SP-25-017, Laupa`i, dba Laupa`i, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on September 13, 2025, held at the Afook- Chinen Civic Auditorium, 323 Manono Street, Hilo, Hawaii. j. License No. SP-25-018, Aloha Performing Arts Company, dba Aloha Theatre, for a Special General liquor license, for events on July 25-27; August 1-3; 8-10, 2025, held at 79-7384 Mamalahoa Highway, Kealakekua, Hawaii. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 40 OF 49 k. License No. SP-25-019, Kahilu Theatre Foundation, dba Kahilu Theatre Foundation, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for events on August 2, 37 9 & 17, 2025, held at 67-1186 Lindsey Road, Kamuela, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I please have a motion to ratify? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to ratify. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to ratify Special Licenses Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 6(a) through 6(k), License Nos. SP-24-008 through SP-24-019, as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Okay, moved and seconded, discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 41 OF 49 7. Transient Vessel Licenses Issued for Ratification (10:48 AM) a. License No. TV-25-007, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd., dba Coral Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor Hilo Hawaii, on October 13, 2025; and in port at Kona Harbor Kailua-Kona Hawaii, on January 30, 2026 b. License No. TV-25-008, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd., dba Emerald Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor Hilo Hawaii, on November 24, December 21, 2025; January 25, February 12, 26; March 14, 30, 2026. C. License No. TV-25-009, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd., Island Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor Kailua-Kona Hawaii, on October 13, 2025; April 30, 2026; and in port at Hilo Harbor Hilo Hawaii, on April 29, 2026. d. License No. TV-25-010, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd., dba Ruby Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor Hilo Hawaii, on Novmber 7, December 6, 2025; January 7, March 23, April 11, 2026; and in port at Kona Harbor Kailua-Kona Hawaii, on December 25, 2025; February 5 & 26; April 10, 2026. e. License No. TV-25-011, Holland America Line Limited, dba Ms Zaandam, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor Kailua-Kona Hawaii, on October 6, November 25, December 26, 2025; January 12, 2026; and in port at Hilo Harbor Hilo Hawaii, on October 11, November 29, December 24, 2025. f. License No. TV-25-012, Holland America Line Limited, dba Ms Westerdam, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor Kailua-Kona Hawaii, on September 20, 2025; and in port at Hilo Harbor Hilo Hawaii, on September 21, 2025. g. License No. TV-25-013, Holland America Line Limited, dba Ms Noordam, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor Kailua-Kona Hawaii, on on April 9, 2026. h. License No. TV-25-014, Holland America Line Limited, dba Ms Nieuw Amsterdam, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor Hilo Hawaii, on January 17; February 2, & 21; April 22, 2026; and in port at Kona Harbor Kailua-Kona Hawaii, on January 18; February 3, & 24; April 17, 2026. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 42 OF 49 License No. TV-25-015, Holland America Line Limited, dba Ms Koningsdam, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor Hilo Hawaii, on October 10, 2025; and in port at Kona Harbor Kailua-Kona Hawaii, on October 14, 2025. j. License No. TV-25-016, Holland America Line Limited, dba My Sojourn, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor Hilo Hawaii, on December 26, 2025; and in port at Kona Harbor Kailua-Kona Hawaii, on December 29, 2025. k. License No. TV-25-017, Holland America Line Limited, dba My Quest, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor Kailua-Kona Hawaii, on March 30, 2026. Okabe: Motion to ratify? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to ratify. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to ratify Transient Vessel Licenses Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 7(a) through 7(k), License Nos. TV-24-007 through TV-24-017, as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 43 OF 49 IX. Announcements (10:48 AM) Meetings of the Liquor Commission September 4, 2025, 10:00 A.M., Hilo Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Unit 230, Hilo, Hawaii. October 2, 2025, 10:00 A.M., Kona Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Suite 107, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Takase: In terms of announcements, I think I sent notice to everybody but anybody that doesn't know, the State Liquor Conference will be held October 19t" — 22nd on Kauai at the Kauai Sheraton. We have a request in to Finance right now to approve everybody, but we've been kind of going back and forth with them but hope to get it approved for everybody to attend, so kind of keep those dates aside. And then finally, I'm going to retire as of December 30t", I wanted to give you guys time to think about it and try to figure out what is the procedure to make a new selection. So, you can think about it, and we can discuss it next month, and we'll help you folks get through the process. Okabe: So, as Chair, what we got to do is, you have some kind of a template or something of how we're going to go through the procedures of the interview process, and what is the timeline of when we want to get the new Director, or persuade you from now until then not to do it? So, what is the deal? Takase: I guess you guys need to figure out a procedure to select a new one, and it would be you know, some of the things you look at are how wide are you going to cast your net? I feel we have good candidates within the Department, so I would not recommend going the way things have been going lately for the other Counties. Okabe: Yes. Nakashima: Is there a rules of procedures for this? Takase: Not really. Okabe: Are we going to have to go to HR (Human Resources) to get guidelines? Takase: You can ask them to assist, but I don't think that's a requirement. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 44 OF 49 Gonzalez: So, the Director is right, there's no rules or procedures but in 2010, the Commission did a selection process that can be built upon when the Commission conducted interviews and did screening of applicants. Okabe: Okay. Gonzalez: So, there is that available. Okabe: But, this meeting that I'm supposed to go to for the Chairs, they're going to be talking about that kind of stuff or not? Takase: No. Okabe: Oh okay. Takase: So, the meeting Wil's talking about is, there's going to be training for Chairmans and Vice Chairs, it's really on how to conduct a meeting, and I guess Corporation Counsel is gonna be coaching them on it, but it kind of grew out of a Planning Commission meeting that guess got out of hand, so they want to send all the Chairmans through that. I tried to convince them that we never have problems, but they're making everybody go. Okabe: I'll be there. Greenwell: Does Corporation Counsel advise on this selection process? Takase: They will assist, yes. Wong: Yes, this is Deputy Corporation Counsel Keyra Wong, I will be assisting in that process to help guide the Commission. So shortly, I can schedule a meeting with you, can kind of talk story about what to expect, and I'll look into the 2010 process as well so that I can provide something to you guys. Okabe: Because the question I had, you know I've been a Chair for Police and Fire, both, is this like we have to go though public hearings? How public is something like this? Wong: It's going to be in an open meeting like this. Okabe: Okay. Wong: The selection of the new Director would have to be held in an open meeting like this. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 45 OF 49 Okabe: So, you would have public testimony in regards to the applicants and stuff like that, too? Wong: Yes. Okabe: Okay and then, but it is solely the responsibility of the Commission to select the Director, right? Wong: That's correct. Okabe: Not influenced by the Mayor, just like Police and Fire, right? Wong: Yes. Ventura: So, does the process also include recruitment, and interviewing, and everything all the way up until the selection? Wong: Yes. Takase: So I guess between now and next month, you can kind of discuss it, you guys can kind of think about what you want the process to look like, and we seen a lot not so much in liquor but some liquor, but you know you look at Honolulu and the problems they've had, so there's good ways and bad ways to do it. Nishimoto: Brandon, in 2010, what process was that? Gonzalez: I was the Deputy Corporation Counsel assigned to the Department to assist the Chair and the Commission to do the selection process for the Director at that time, which Director Takase was the successful applicant, yes. Nishimoto: Okay, so quite relevant. Gonzalez: Yes, and he's been through it so, and because he's not applying for it, he's going to be able to help with the process as well. Taniguchi: But the interview process is closed, right? Takase: It's up to the applicant, really. So, the actual interview itself can be done in executive session. The voting of the new Director will have to be done in public. Greenwell: So, the public testimony, will they have public testimony on the process or not? They only have public testimony on the individuals? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 46 OF 49 Wong: So, it depends on how we agendize it, if next meeting is going to be discussed the process to select, then yes, the public will have an opportunity to provide public testimony on that agenda item. But I don't want to get too in-depth because it's not agendized on today's agenda. And so, I will be reaching out to Gerald and also Chair and providing something to all of the Commissioners prior to next meeting so you guys can have something to look at. Ventura: And ideally, we would want to have somebody in place by our December meeting, or at our December meeting? Takase: Yes, I think that would be, I'm kind of hoping you guys would make a decision by then. Okabe: That was my thing is that if we wanted to do it like that, or is it up to the Commissioners to decide, because you know certain commissions have you know like an interim, you know what I mean? You know this thing with Honolulu, the police thing, right? You have an interim, you go through the selection process, and then you get somebody. But you're suggesting that we do this prior to December, so we talking about October, November, December, and by November meeting, we're gonna be having a selection for the December meeting? Wong: Either that, or if there's a need, we can schedule a special meeting in between, mean you guys have options, so that's what I want to look into to provide something to you fo I ks . Okabe: Okay. Takase: Yes, so that's why I kind of told you now, you still have quite a few meetings that you can, it's not like I told you in November, and right away you gotta select next month. So, you got some time to think about it and work it out, and Keyra will be here. I'll be here to help you guys too as well. Okabe: Any other questions for Gerald? Taniguchi: My question is, is it up to us to figure out how we wanna publicize it or not publicize it for the recruitment? Takase: Yes. Okabe: But it has to be some kind of official resignation thing first, right? Before we do the process, right? So, he doesn't have to say he's going to resign at certain certain time, so you know what I mean? Like a public thing? No? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 47 OF 49 Takase: No, so I told you already. Okabe: Oh okay, this is public already. Takase: You would make your appointment effective January 1st. So, it doesn't have to be vacant before you can start to look, let's put it that way. Nishimoto: It's not like a State position or a civil service position, so no more all that legal process. Taniguchi: For the Police they said that's what they had to do, the Honolulu one, they couldn't do anything to the person. Takase: Little bit different because you know, it was immediately, so they had no advanced notice and this and that. Okabe: Yeah, but we don't want the person to be suing us for telling you, you gotta resign or something like that. Taniguchi: So, we would set the rules, right? Wong: So, I will provide something to you guys. Okabe: Okay, good. Gonzalez: You guys are going to express your preferences on what you want, Keyra is going to make sure you guys are within all the legal parameters of doing it, so that there's no challenges. Takase: Yes, but like I said, think about it until next month, and we can have a better discussion. Nishimoto: We just want to ensure that we do it in a way that does not bring up any conflict for the outgoing and incoming person to deal with, right? You know and others that might be vying for it, we just want to make sure we're doing it fairly. Okabe: Yes, and transparent. Wong: Yes, and that's what I'm going to help you guys with. Okabe: Any other questions? There were no further comments by the Commission MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 - KONA PAGE 48 OF 49 X. Adjournment Meeting adjourned at 11:01 A.M. er d Takase Director The August 7,. 2025 meeting minutes were approved as circulated, via email on September Z 2025,, by the Liquor Commission of the County of Hawaii on September 4, 2025. MINUTES- LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING- THURSDAY, AUGUST 7 202S - KONA PAGE 49 OF 4JI.,