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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-09-04 Liquor Commission Minutes HiloCOUNTY OF HAWAI`I DEPARTMENT OF LIQUOR CONTROL LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES — SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 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 Okabe at 10:00 A.M., in the Hilo Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Unit 230, Hilo, 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: Stacie Waltjen, Licensing Officer Others Present: Gerald Takase, Director Brandon Gonzalez, Administrative Officer Keyra Wong, Deputy Corporation Counsel Zoeann Bertelmann, Licensing Technician Hau`oli Sayles, Commission Secretary Okabe: Please silence your devices, this meeting is being recorded, the microphones in the room do not amplify your voice but only record what is being said, so speak loud, clear, and one at a time so 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 Technician Zoe Bertelmann, and Commission Secretary Hau`oli Sayles. II. Approval of Minutes —August 7, 2025 (10:01AM) Okabe: The August 7, 2025, meeting minutes were circulated via email on September 2, 2025. Commissioners, can I have a motion to approve the minutes? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to approve the minutes. Ventura: Ventura, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the August 7, 2025, Liquor Commission meeting minutes as circulated; Seconded by Commissioner Ventura. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 2 OF 37 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. III. Approval of Addendum and/or Supplemental Agenda (10:01 AM) Okabe: There is no addendum and/or supplemental agenda. IV. Public Statements on Agenda Items (10:01 AM) Okabe: Any statements from members of 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: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 24-41 Hamakua Distillery LLC Hamakua Distillery 28-3254 Beach Road, Pepe`ekeo, Hawaii 2-8-008:044 Original Manufacturer liquor license Representing applicant: Charmaine Banther, Owner, and Keith Steele, Master Distiller Okabe: Can you please state your name and the relationship to the business? Banther: Charmaine Banther, Owner, Hamakua Distillery LLC (Limited Liability Company). Steele: Keith Steele, Master Distiller, Hamakua Distillery. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 3 OF 37 Okabe: Could you please describe your business. Banther: So, our business is going to be a small farm -to -flask craft distillery, really, really, small, basically a hobby operation, wholesale only on our farm orchard. So, we're really excited to try to create something very unique for our island that uses our organic produce to make very, very fine distilled products. Keith was an award -winning executive chef for many, many years, I'd like to use his refined palette to really create something delicious, and that's our goal. Currently, our building has been delivered, we have an engineered -stamped steel building, it's been delivered. All of our equipment is on site, we've been working since we saw you last with the electrical engineer, to get the drawings all done for our building, we're working with the electrician and plumber. Planning Department was completely fine with all of our progress, but Public Works said we are very, very unique, one -of -a -kind. I've always tried to be one -of -a -kind but you know, maybe being one -of -a -kind with Public Works isn't good. But, they said that they're not quite sure our ag (agricultural) permit is going to be enough because we have an ag (agricultural) permit for the building, and we were doing the electrical engineering and the plumbing permit separately, but they may want us to go to a full building permit. So, they're working on it because they said the code is a little ambiguous for our situation. So, we're waiting for their direction and that's what we will do, so that's why we're a little bit waiting right now. But we're ready to go as soon as they make a determination which permit will be the best for us. Greenwell: What size is your farm? Banther: Three acres. Greenwell: Three acres? Steele: We have ulu, I have sugarcane growing, and then additional pineapple growing. Banther: And banana. Steele: So, those are the products we'll be using for the distillery, distilled alcohol. Takase: Charmaine, I met with the Building Department about your project, and they were a little unclear as to whether it would be agricultural, it's really because the building doesn't have to go through a building process, but you know we explained to them what you were doing, that you're not really open to the public, so I think they are gonna come back favorable for you guys. Banther: Okay thank you, we were going to pop in on the way home from here and see if they've made a decision because their meetings are also on Thursday. Takase: Unfortunately, the guy is in Kona, that's where I met with him in Kona. Banther: Oh, thank you. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 4 OF 37 Steele: Oh, that's good. Banther: Okay, well I'll send him an email then. Takase: Yeah, I think they understand a little better. Banther: Thank you. Okabe: Any other questions, Commissioners? There was no further discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, did you receive the report? Banther: Yes. Okabe: Are there any changes to the report? Banther: No. Okabe: Are there any report of protests? Takase: Mister Chairman, the applicant mailed 5 out of 5 notices within 100 feet, 10 out of 10 within 500 feet, there were no protests to this application. Okabe: Any public testimony on this application? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. Commissioners, do you have any discussion or questions? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, I'd like to close the public hearing with a motion. Taniguchi: Move to close public hearing. Yadao: Second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to close the public hearing; Seconded by Commissioner Yadao. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all in favor to the motion please say "Aye." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 5 OF 37 The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Motion carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: Motion to approve or deny Application No. 24-41, pending final inspection? Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, move to approve Application No. 24-41, pending final inspection. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application No. 24-41, Hamakua Distillery LLC, dba Hamakua Distillery, for an Original Manufacturer liquor license, located at 28-3254 Beach Road, Pepe`ekeo, Hawaii, TMK: 2-8-008:044, 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. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 6 OF 37 2. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:07 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TM K: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 24-43 JKL & Associates, LLC E Komo Mai Bar & Grill Waiakea Square Warehouse, 200 Kanoelehua Avenue, #106, Hilo, Hawaii 2-2-032:095 Original Cabaret liquor license Representing applicant: Jalyn Like, Co-owner Okabe: Can you please state your name and the relationship to the business? Like: Hi, my name is Jalyn Like, and I'm Managing Partner of JKL & Associates, dba (doing business as) E Komo Mai Bar and Grill. Okabe: Please describe your business. Like: Well, a bar and grill, we actually moved from one location, and now we're at a new location. Sports bar. Gonzalez: Jaylyn, what do you guys serve? Like: We serve pupus. Okabe: Just pupus? Like: Pupus and meals too, we do meals also. Okabe: Okay, did you receive the report? Like: Yes. Okabe: Okay, are there any changes? Like: No. Okabe: Director, are there any report of protests? Takase: Mister Chairman, the applicant mailed 2 out of 2 notices within 100 feet, 130 out of 131 within 500 feet. There were 77 properties entitled to protest, we received no protests to this application. Okabe: Any public testimony? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. Commissioners, do you have any discussion or questions? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 7 OF 37 There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Okay, hearing none, 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: 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: Motion to approve or deny Application No. 24-43, pending final inspection? Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, move to approve Application No. 24-43, pending final inspection. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application No. 24-43, JKL & Associates, LLC, dba E Komo Mai Bar & Grill, for an Original Cabaret liquor license, located at the Waiakea Square Warehouse, 200 Kanoelehua Avenue, #106, Hilo, Hawaii, TMK: 2-2-032:095, pending final inspection; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Moved and seconded, discussion to the motion? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 8 OF 37 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: Motion to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-CAB-1055, effective August 19, 2025? Ventura: Ventura, I move to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-CAB-1055, effective August 19, 2025. Nishimoto: Nishimoto second. Commissioner Ventura moved to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-CAB-1055, effective August 19, 2025; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. 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. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 9 OF 37 Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. VI. Preliminary Hearings (10:10 AM) 1. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:10 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TM K: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: T25-03 JR Ohana Grill, LLC Jackie Rey's Ohana Grill (Kona) Pottery Terrace, Suite L, 75-5995 Kuakini Highway, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 7-5-030:024 Sale and Transfer of the Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, currently held by Big Island Restaurant Group, LLC, dba Jackie Rey's O'hana Grill Kona Representing applicant: Matthew Mather, Co-owner. Okabe: Can you please state your name and the relationship to the business? Mather: Matthew Mather, Co-owner of Jackie Rey's. Okabe: Okay, and describe your business? Mather: Jackie Rey's is a restaurant, bar, serving steak, seafood, and island -style cuisine, and we're going to continue that same menu, same style, not changing anything, similar with how we did with Harbor House, just taking over, trying to keep it unknown that they were sold and purchased by a new group. Okabe: Did you receive the report? Mather: Yes. Okabe: Okay, are there any changes to the report? Mather: No, sir. Okabe: Okay. Any public testimony? There was no public testimony. Okabe: Hearing none. You have any questions, Commissioners, or discussion? Taniguchi: Yes, I have a question. Just, because you mentioned the two names and on the ownership structure it has three. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 10 OF 37 Mather: Yes. Taniguchi: So, what's the third? Is that the third partner? Mather: Yes, the third partner. Taniguchi: Hilary Jandl? Mather: Yes, Hilary Jandl. Okabe: Any other questions, Commissioners? Ventura: Do you operate the one in Hilo also, or is that a separate operation? Mather: No we don't, it is completely separate. Okabe: Separate, different owners and same name? Mather: It was originally one owner, and then he sold them separately, so that's why the Kona one goes by Jackie Rey's Kona, and the Hilo one has the Hilo after it, so yeah. Okabe: Okay, any other questions? Taniguchi: So, you own the Harbor House, too? Mather: Yes, sir, same group. Taniguchi: Are you gonna have the frosted mugs up there too? Just kidding. Mather: I don't know if that's the place for it, possibly if there's a call for it by the public, we'll definitely do it. Okabe: Commissioners, can I have a motion to approve or deny Application No. T25-037 if approved public hearing will be held October 2, 2025, in Kona? Taniguchi: Move to approve Application No. T25-03. If approved, public hearing to be held on October 2nd, in Kona. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 11 OF 37 Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve Application No. T25-03, JR Ohana Grill, LLC, dba Jackie Rey's Ohana Grill (Kona), for a Sale and Transfer of the Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, currently held by Big Island Restaurant Group, LLC, dba Jackie Rey's O'hana Grill Kona, located at the Pottery Terrace, Suite L, 75-5995 Kuakini Highway, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, TMK: 7-5-030:024, with public hearing to be held on October 2, 2025, in Kona, Hawaii; 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. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-REST-G-513, effective August 1, 2025? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-REST-G-513, effective August 1, 2025. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-REST-G-513, effective August 1, 2025; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Okay, any discussion to the motion? Greenwell: Gerald, question, why does this temporary license have "REST" and the other one back here that we just approved has "CAB"? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 12 OF 37 Takase: That's the license type, so this one is a Restaurant, the other one is Cabaret. Greenwell: Okay. Okabe: Okay, moved and seconded, any other discussion to the motion? There was no further 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. VII. Unfinished Business (10: 15 AM) 1. Change in Officers/Directors/Members/Managers Submitted for Approval (10: 15 AM) a. RMG Waikoloa, LLC, dba Romano's Macaroni Grill, approval of 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, 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 DID NOT SHOW UP TO THE HEARING MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 13 OF 37 Takase: Mr. Chairman, we've been trying to contact either the owner or the attorney to appear today, and they still haven't so. Okabe: Postpone it? Takase: I recommend continuing the matter. Taniguchi: Is this for the first one? Takase: This is for Taniguchi: No. 1 ? Takase: Romano's Macaroni Grill, yes. Okabe: So, we're not going to vote on this one, just what are we going to do? Takase: Continuance. Okabe: Commissioners, can I have a motion for continuance? Taniguchi: So moved. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to continue this matter to the next meeting on October 2, 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 B1, located at the Queens' MarketPlace, 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Suite 1010, Waikoloa, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion? Taniguchi: I had a question, so is this under the same ownership as the Oahu one, because they're having some kind of litigation, right? Takase: Yes, I believe it is the same ownership. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 14 OF 37 Taniguchi: Because they're closed right now, are they open still? Takase: Waikoloa one, they've been off and on, so they're having some struggles, too. Taniguchi: Because the Ala Moana one is closed? Takase: They lost they're lease, yes. So, not to disparage them, they've been having some problems. Okabe: Okay, any other questions on the motion? There was no further 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: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Vill. New Business (10:17AM) 1. AOK Enterprises, Inc., dba Volcano's Lava Rock Cafe, approval of Application for Change to a Class 2, Restaurant license from its Dispenser (10: 17 AM) General liquor license, Category B2, located at 19-3972 Old Volcano Highway, Volcano, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve? Taniguchi: Move to approve. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the Application for Change to a Class 2, Restaurant license from its Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, located at 19-3972 Old Volcano Highway, Volcano, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 15 OF 37 Okabe: Moved and seconded, any discussion? 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. Change in Officers/Directors Submitted for Approval (10:18AM) a. Hilo Lodge, No. 759, of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America, dba B.P.O. Elks No. 759, approval of (10:18 AM) Change in Officers/Directors as follows: • Removal of Lily Chan -Harris, President; Gary Larson, Vice President; and Marva Lynn Chew, Secretary; effective April 1, 2025; • Removal of Pamela Paulo, Loren Pabila, Taryll Moore, and Elizabeth Moore, Directors; effective April 1, 2025; • Appointment of Clyde Ferreria, as President; and Virginia Mercado, as Secretary and Director; effective April 1, 2025; • Appointment of John Regan, Greg Molina, Russell Calhoon, and Richard Davis, as Directors and Trustees; effective April 1, 2025; • Appointment of Beth Sabala, and Melanie Magno, as Directors; effective April 1, 2025; • Change in Title of Sandra Walker, from Treasurer to Vice President and Director; effective April 1, 2025; • Change in Title of Tantra Bates, from Director and Trustee, to Treasurer and Director; effective April 1, 2025; • Removal of Greg Molina, Director and Trustee, effective May 14, 2025; • Personal History and Affidavits for Clyde Ferreria, President; Virginia Mercado, Secretary and Director; John Regan, Russell Calhoon, and MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 16 OF 37 Richard Davis, Directors and Trustees; and Beth Sabala, and Melanie Magno, Directors; by forms received May 30, 2025; of its Club liquor license, Category B2, located at 150 Kino`ole Street, Hilo, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to approve? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to approve. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the Change in Officers/Directors as follows: Removal of Lily Chan -Harris, President; Gary Larson, Vice President; and Marva Lynn Chew, Secretary; effective April 1, 2025; Removal of Pamela Paulo, Loren Pabila, Taryll Moore, and Elizabeth Moore, Directors; effective April 1, 2025; Appointment of Clyde Ferreria, as President; and Virginia Mercado, as Secretary and Director; effective April 1, 2025; Appointment of John Regan, Greg Molina, Russell Calhoon, and Richard Davis, as Directors and Trustees; effective April 1, 2025; Appointment of Beth Sabala, and Melanie Magno, as Directors; effective April 1, 2025; Change in Title of Sandra Walker, from Treasurer to Vice President and Director; effective April 1, 2025; Change in Title of Tantra Bates, from Director and Trustee, to Treasurer and Director; effective April 1, 2025; Removal of Greg Molina, Director and Trustee, effective May 14, 2025; Personal History and Affidavits for Clyde Ferreria, President; Virginia Mercado, Secretary and Director; John Regan, Russell Calhoon, and Richard Davis, Directors and Trustees; and Beth Sabala, and Melanie Magno, Directors; by forms received May 30, 2025; of its Club liquor license, Category B2, located at 150 Kino`ole Street, Hilo, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. 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. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 17 OF 37 Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. b. Waikoloa Village Association, dba Waikoloa Village Golf Course, approval of Change in Directors, with the appointment of David Bruno, (10:19 AM) as Director, effective June 24, 2025, by form received July 16, 2025; and the Personal History and Affidavit for David Bruno, Director; 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: Greenwell, I'll make the motion to approve. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to approve the Change in Directors, with the appointment of David Bruno, as Director, effective June 24, 2025, by form received July 16, 2025; and the Personal History and Affidavit for David Bruno, Director; of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at 68-1792 Melia Street, Waikoloa, Hawaii; 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." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 18 OF 37 Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. C. Accor Management US Inc., dba The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii, approval of Change in Officers, with the appointment of Caroline Salomon, (10:19 AM) as Vice President, Legal Counsel, Luxury & Lifestyle North America and Secretary; effective July 24, 2025, by form received August 1, 2025; and the Personal History and Affidavit for Caroline Salomon, Vice President, Legal Counsel, Luxury & Lifestyle North America, and Secretary; of its Hotel liquor license, located at One North Kaniku Drive, Kohala Coast, Hawaii. Okabe: Commissioners, can I have a motion to approve? Ventura: Ventura, move to approve. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Ventura moved to approve the Change in Officers, with the appointment of Caroline Salomon, as Vice President, Legal Counsel, Luxury & Lifestyle North America and Secretary; effective July 24, 2025, by form received August 1, 2025; and the Personal History and Affidavit for Caroline Salomon, Vice President, Legal Counsel, Luxury & Lifestyle North America, and Secretary; of its Hotel liquor license, located at One North Kaniku Drive, Kohala Coast, Hawaii; 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." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Any abstentions? There were no abstentions by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 19 OF 37 Okabe: Hearing none, motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 3. Foods O' Hawaii Delivery Corp., dba Da Taste Kona, ratification of request to transfer liquor inventory to Umekes, LLC, dba Umeke's Fish Market Bar & Grill, (10:19 AM) approved by Director Gerald Takase on August 25, 2025, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at the Ali`i Plaza, 75-5742 Kuakini Highway, Suite 104, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify? Taniguchi: Move to ratify. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to ratify the request to transfer liquor inventory to Umekes, LLC, dba Umeke's Fish Market Bar & Grill, approved by Director Gerald Takase on August 25, 2025, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at the AlVi Plaza, 75-5742 Kuakini Highway, Suite 104, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; 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, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 20 OF 37 4. Solicitor's Permit Issued for Ratification (10:20 AM) (10:20 AM) a. Roberto Viernes, Solicitor, Lotus Spirits LLC, ratification of Application for Solicitor's Permit, approved by Director Gerald Takase on August 8, 2025, of its Wholesaler -General liquor license, located at 521 Ala Moana Blvd, Pier 2, FTZ #9, Honolulu, Hawaii. b. Hidekazu Ito, Solicitor, The Cherry Company, Ltd., ratification of Application for Solicitor's Permit, approved by Director Gerald Takase on August 18, 2025, of its Retail -General liquor license, located at 3375 Koapaka Street, #A-185, Honolulu, Hawaii. C. Garrett Low, Solicitor, The Cherry Company, Ltd., ratification of Application for Solicitor's Permit, approved by Director Gerald Takase on August 18, 2025, of its Retail -General liquor license, located at 3375 Koapaka Street, #A-185, Honolulu, Hawaii. Taniguchi: Move to ratify. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to ratify Solicitor's Permits Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 4(a) through 4(c), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. 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: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 21 OF 37 5. Game Permits Issued for Ratification (10:21 AM) (10:21 AM) a. 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 Permits, for events on August 6 & 21, 2025; approved by Director Gerald Takase on August 4, 2025; of its Club liquor license, Category B2, located at 75-170 Hualalai Road, Suite E-100, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to ratify. Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to ratify Game Permits Issued for Ratification, Item No. 5(a), as stated in the agenda; 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: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 6. Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises Issued for Ratification (10:21 AM) (10:21 AM) a. LBC Volcano LLC, dba Lanikai Brewing Company, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on October 4, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on August 6, 2025, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category 131, located at 19-4005 Haunani Road, Volcano, Hawaii. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 22 OF 37 b. Smash Daddy's LLC, dba Smash Daddy's, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on August 23, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on August 19, 2025, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at the Waikoloa Plaza, 68-1820 Waikoloa Road, #E105, Waikoloa, Hawaii. C. Island Hopper Pahoa LLC, dba Island Hopper Taproom, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for events beginning September 10, 2025, every 2nd and 4th Wednesday till November, approved by Director Gerald Takase on August 8, 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. d. Napua Hilo LLC, dba Lehua Restaurant at Imiloa, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on August 11, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on on August 8, 2025; of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at 600 Imiloa Place, Hilo, Hawaii. e. Kuleana Spirits, Inc., dba Kuleana Rum Shack, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for events every Thursday starting September 4, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on August 21, 2025; 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. f. Sodexo America, LLC, dba Sodexo America, LLC, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on September 4, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on on August 19, 2025; of its Restaurant Beer and Wine liquor license, Category B2, located at the Campus Center Cafeteria, University of Hawaii at Hilo, 200 West Kawili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. g. Berj Corporation, dba My Bar, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, to include parking lot for events on September 12 - 13, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on August 25, 2025, of its Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, located at the Luhia Center I, 74-5606 Luhia Street, Spaces Al, A2, A3 and A413, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 23 OF 37 h. Kona, Hawaii, Lodge No. 2616, Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America, dba Kona Elks Club, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on September 5, 2025, approved by Director Gerald Takase on August 26, 2025, of its Temporary Club liquor license, Category B2, located at 75-170 Hualalai Road, Suite E-100, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify? Taniguchi: Move to ratify. Greenwell: Greenwell, second Commissioner Taniguchi moved to ratify Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 6(a) through 6(h), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Moved and seconded, any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: All those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 7. Special Licenses Issued for Ratification (10:22 AM) (10:22 AM) a. License No. SP-25-010, Na`alehu Theatre, dba Na`alehu Theatre, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on August 28, 2025, held at the Pukalani Stables, 67-139 Pukalani Road, Kamuela, Hawaii. b. License No. SP-25-020, Volcano Art Center, dba Volcano Art Center, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on August 9, 2025, held at 19-4074 Old Volcano Road, Volcano, Hawaii. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 24 OF 37 C. License No. SP-25-021, Hilo Community Players, dba Hilo Community Players, for a Special General liquor license, for events on August 1, 7, 14, 16, 21, 23 & 28, 2025, held at 280 Keawe Street, Hilo, Hawaii. d. License No. SP-25-022, 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 August 7, 2025, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. e. License No. SP-25-023, 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 August 8 &9, 2025, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. f. License No. SP-25-024, 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 August 10, 2025, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. g. License No. SP-25-025, 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 August 15, 2025, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. h. License No. SP-25-026, 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 August 29, 2025, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. i. License No. SP-25-027, Donkey Mill Art Center, dba Donkey Mill Art Center, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on August 23, 2025, held at 78-6670 Mamalahoa Highway, Holualoa, Hawaii. j. License No. SP-25-028, Aloha Performing Arts Company, dba Aloha Theatre, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on August 23, 2025, held at 79-7384 Mamalahoa Highway, Kealakekua, Hawaii. k. License No. SP-25-029, Rotary Club of Hilo Bay, dba Rotary Club of Hilo Bay, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on September 26, 2025, held at the Sanga Hall, 424 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii. I. License No. SP-25-030, Kahilu Theatre Foundation, dba Kahilu Theatre Foundation, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for events on September 6, 11, 12, 13, 19, 21 & 27, 2025, held at 67-1186 Lindsey Road, Kamuela, Hawaii. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 25 OF 37 M. License No. SP-25-031, Hawaii Executive Collaborative, dba Hawaii Executive Collaborative, for a Special General liquor license, for events from October 1 - 4, 2025, held at 68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive, Kohala Coast, Hawaii. n. License No. SP-25-032, Hilo Downtown Improvement Foundation, dba Hilo Downtown Improvement Foundation, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on September 16, 2025, held at the Sanga Hall, 424 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii. o. License No. SP-25-033, Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii, dba Puna Hongwanji Mission, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on September 27, 2025, held at 16-492 Old Volcano Road, Keaau, Hawaii. Okabe: Can I have a motion to ratify? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make the motion to ratify. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to ratify Special Licenses Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 7(a) through 7(o), License Nos. SP-25-010 AND SP-25-020 through SP-25-033, as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Okabe: Moved and seconded, any discussion to the motion? Mr. Greenwell? Greenwell: Gerald, when does the Palace Theatre, why don't they come in for one permit instead of asking for August 7t", then 8t" and 9t", and then 10t"? Takase: I think it was different shows, that's why they're coming in separately for them, it's not like one continuous show, so that's kind of how they are breaking that up so they can keep track of what they're doing here. Greenwell: Thank you. Okabe: Any other questions? There was no further discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 26 OF 37 There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Motion carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 8. Memorandum dated May 23, 2025, Report of NABCA 88t" Annual Conference — Forward Together, Stronger Tomorrow (10:23 AM) Takase: That was a report that was submitted to the Mayor's office, so just for your information. Okabe: Okay, any questions for Gerald on the report? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, let's move on to the next item. CHANGED THE ORDER OF BUSINESS: FOLLOWING ITEM WAS TAKEN OUT OF ORDER 10. Marzo's Country Sports Bar & Grill LLC, dba Marzo's Country Sports Bar & Grill, RE: Application No. 23-15 - Request to Extend Time Issuance of (10: 24 AM) Liquor License, approval of request to extend the time for issuance of the liquor license for good cause shown for an additional 6 months, from October 4, 2025, to and including April 4, 2026, by letter received August 29, 2025, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at the Puna Kai Shopping Center, 15-2714 Pahoa Village Road, Suite D1 and D2, Pahoa, Hawaii. Passage of 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 that good cause is when making the motion. Okabe: Okay Commissioner, do I have a motion to approve with good cause? And please state your good cause. Taniguchi: I'll make a motion to extend, he's just asking for a six-month extension. Apparently, he wants to open in November, so he's just asking for six months, so it's only like going to be two months from now that he wants to open. Apparently they were running into some problems on their build -out, so I feel that's a good enough cause, so make the motion. I have a question too, so somebody gotta second so we can discuss. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 27 OF 37 Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the request to extend the time for issuance of the liquor license for good cause shown for an additional 6 months, from October 4, 2025, to and including April 4, 20269 by letter received August 28, 2025, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category 132, located at the Puna Kai Shopping Center, 15-2714 Pahoa Village Road, Suite D1 and D2, Pahoa, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Okay, moved and seconded, discussion to the motion? Taniguchi: Yes, I have a question, first of all, what's this person's relationship, is he the owner? Takase: I think he's part-owner. Taniguchi: Because he's just saying I'm writing on behalf of, it doesn't have any title or anything. Takase: This Jones, I don't have the file with me but he's one of the owners, yes. Taniguchi: Okay, so he has a legitimate stake? Takase: Yes, they bought a place that was already built, so they had to kind of for one, think come up with "as -built" plans for it, but they also I think started to make a few changes while they were in there so, hopefully they'll come online shortly. Taniguchi: So, when does their thing expire? Takase: October 4t" Taniguchi: Yes, so they just want it just like an additional month and then it opens? Takase: Yes. Taniguchi: Makes sense. Takase: Yes, over anticipate. Taniguchi: Thank you. Ventura: So, Gerald, good cause doesn't have to be that they're waiting for the County or waiting for inspections? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 28 OF 37 Takase: No, that usually is the good cause, so you know, good cause could probably be anything more than, I just didn't have time to get around to it you know. Venture: So, if they were delaying because they were dragging their feet, that's not good cause? Takase: Yeah, and I think the Commission have been kind of lenient on what we find for good cause, you know. Taniguchi: Because it is not unreasonable, you know what I mean? It's like the time frame, right? Nishimoto: They're 80% done. Takase: As much as possible, we want to try and accommodate them, you know and a lot of times, everything doesn't fall into place exactly as you would like, be it permits or financing, or getting the insurance and things in. So, as a department we feel that's sufficient cause for them. Okabe: Okay, any other questions, Commissioners? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Hearing none, all those in favor of the motion 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 for the extension. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 29 OF 37 RETURNED TO THE ORDER OF BUSINESS 9. Referral for Executive Session, Selection Process for the New Director of the Department of Liquor Control, Deputy Corporation Counsel Keyra Wong, (10:28 AM) requesting an attorney -client confidential discussion to consult with the Commission regarding the above matter. The Commission anticipates convening an executive meeting pursuant to Section 92-5(a)(4) of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, as amended, for the purpose of consulting with the Commission's attorney on questions and issues pertaining to the Commission's powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities. A 2/3 vote of the members present is necessary to hold an executive meeting, pursuant to Section 92-4(a) of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, as amended. Okabe: Can I have a motion to enter into executive session? Greenwell: This is Greenwell, I'll make that motion to enter into the executive session. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to enter into executive session; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Moved and seconded, is there any discussion to the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: We need a roll call vote. Sayles: Roll call vote on the motion to enter into executive session. Vice Chair Greenwell. Greenwell: Aye. Sayles: Commissioner Nakashima. Nakashima: Aye. Sayles: Commissioner Nishimoto. Nishimoto: Aye. Sayles: Commissioner Okamoto. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 30 OF 37 Okamoto: Aye. Sayles: Commissioner Taniguchi. Taniguchi: Aye. Sayles: Commissioner Ventura. Ventura: Aye. Sayles: Commissioner Yadao. Yadao: Aye. Sayles: Chair Okabe. Okabe: Aye. Sayles: Mister Chair, you have eight (8) "Ayes". The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: Okay, we're in Executive Session. RECESSED AT 10: 31 AM - COMMISSION ENTERED EXECUTIVE SESSION LIQUOR COMMISSION WAS IN EXECUTIVE SESSION RECONVENED AT 11: 20 AM - COMMISSION EXITED EXECUTIVE SESSION Wong: This is Deputy Corporation Counsel Keyra Wong, pursuant to HRS (Hawai'i Revised Statutes) 92-4(b), we're back out into open session, the Commissioners discussed generally the recruitment and appointment process for the selection of the new Director of the Department of Liquor Control. Thank you. Okabe: Okay, is there any motions, Commissioners in regards to procedures or what we're going to do? Greenwell: This is Greenwell then, I would like to make a motion that we open this position to only intradepartment, and we only accept applications from within the County of Hawaii Liquor Control Department. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 31 OF 37 Okabe: Okay, is there a second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Greenwell moved to open the new Director position to only intradepartment and only accept applications from within the County of Hawaii, Department of Liquor Control; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Okabe: Moved and seconded, discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: Okay, hearing none, all in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Okay, motion carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: So, you'll draft out a letter saying to the staff that we're going to open up this position? Wong: Yes. Okabe: Okay. Wong: Are there any other motions? Okabe: Any other motions? Wong: Any other decisions? Okabe: In regards to this that Commissioner Nakashima talked about the position, you want to accept this one, or do you want to add on, or what you guys want to do? Ventura: I'll actually move that we accept the position description as currently written. Okabe: Okay, is there a second? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 32 OF 37 Greenwell: Yes, Greenwell, second. Commissioner Ventura moved to accept the Position Description for the Director of Liquor Control as currently written, effective September 4, 2025; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Any discussion to the description? Greenwell: I know I've said this before but our Department is runned very well when you consider what's going on in the rest of the State, and I don't think we should be rocking the boat, and that's why I made the motion that they stay within the Department, intradepartment applicants only. Okabe: Okay. Ventura: We'll change the effective date of the description to today instead of 2011. Wong: Okay. Okabe: Okay, so effective today, that's the motion. Taniguchi: I don't think you need to change it, yeah? Because it's not been changed, it's the same, right? Okabe: No, but we're going to approve this one for this particular appointment. Taniguchi: Oh, so approving it Okabe: Approving it so this is going to be the guidelines, we just can make an editorial change on that, right? Hau`oli, you can just make an editorial change and we're going to adopt this particular document as of today. Taniguchi: I thought you said we're going to use that for the thing, right? Okabe: Yes. Taniguchi: So, we're not changing it, yeah? Okabe: No, only the date we're going to make effective today, okay? Greenwell: So then, it's agreed upon that the letter will be sent out from you, post this to the applicants within the Department. Okabe: Yes, okay. So, any other discussion to the motion? There was no further discussion by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 33 OF 37 Okabe: Hearing none, all in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Okay, motion carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: We adopted this particular position description for Liquor Control Director. Are there any other motions we have to make? Takase: I think we need one more, you guys need a timeline. Okabe: Okay. Takase: Maybe we can work backwards from you know, well you should probably make a decision by the December meeting at the latest. But, you could make it before then, so looking backwards, like November -December, it should be at least interviewing the candidates so you can receive the applications by next month or the month after, maybe. Okabe: November, you mean in Hilo? Takase: Yes, but I would say I think, if it's going to be in-house you know, it's not been a big secret to them, so they should be kind of working on it. So, I would suggest that October is probably fine to set a deadline for the applications to be submitted. Okabe: Okay, so Commissioners, can I have a motion to set the application deadline to be October 2nd . Takase: Maybe actually the end of September, that will give Hau`oli time to get the applications out to everybody. Okabe: Okay, so that's September 30t"? Okay, so can I have a motion to do that for the applicants? So, somebody got to make a motion. Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, I'll make a motion to have applications for the Director's position submitted by September 30t" deadline. Okabe: Is there a second? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 34 OF 37 Greenwell: Greenwell, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to set the application deadline for the Director's position to be submitted by September 30, 2025; Seconded by Commissioner Greenwell. Okabe: Discussion? Ventura: How soon can you have your letter out? Okabe: Today she going do it. Okabe: Any discussion to the motion to have it by the 30t" of September? There was no further discussion by Commissioners. Okabe: All those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Okabe: All opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Okabe: Motion carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Okabe: Okay, any other motions? Taniguchi: And what about finalizing the questions by what date? Okabe: Well, once we have the applicants in, then after that by the next meeting, we can decide on that. Taniguchi: By November? Okabe: Right, October 2nd, we can talk about that at our meeting in Kona, and then by November we have the questions. Taniguchi: Yes, so that doesn't have to be agendized? Does that have to be on the agenda? Takase: Well, I think it all falls under the executive session because you're not going to publish the questions, right? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 35 OF 37 Okabe: Yeah. Taniguchi: Okay. Takase: Like I said, between Keyra and I, will try to come up with some questions, but if you folks have others, you can forward it to Keyra, or through myself or Hau`oli. Nishimoto: So, we can look at those questions? Taniguchi: So, you can send us the questions ahead of time so we can look at them, your suggested questions? Takase: Yeah. Okabe: Okay, any other questions? Greenwell: Okay now, on that note, does Keyra have to have a drop -dead date by the time she gets the questions to her from outside? Okabe: No, well because October 2nd is our next meeting, and then after that, November and December, we get 2 months after that, so we have to do some kind of emergency meeting or another meeting between November and December, we can do that, but I don't think so. Okay, any other questions? Taniguchi: One question for Keyra, so if we call a special meeting, what's the requirement for the number of Commissioners that have to be present? Wong: It's saying you gotta have at least five. Taniguchi: Just five? Wong: Yes. Nishimoto: Because you said nine, but only really have eight, yeah? Takase: No, you actually have a 9th coming on, we will have a new Commissioner come next month. District 1, Hamakua, the new Commissioner is going to be Steve Morifuji. He was our Administrative Officer before Brandon. So, he knows all the rules. He'll be before Council next week, and then full Council in October. Okabe: Okay, any other questions? There was no further discussion by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 - HILO PAGE 36 OF 37 IX. Announcements (11:31 AM) October ! I Meeting Liquor Control, Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Suite 107, Control,November 6, 2025, 10:00 A.M., Hilo Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street,Unit 230, Hilo,,,, ,rr We'regoingto have annual i rather than Kona, but anticipate having dinner at Hilo Hawaiian, so I need to get a head count, so if you guys could let Hau'oli know as soon as possible. So, we usually do a joint dinner with you folks and the Board as ' as `staff,so youfolks are invited. You canspouses or whoever, but we can only pay for the actual members, so you have to pay for them. But " •' going to be at Hilo Hawaiianas . r as I know. Okabe: any other announcements? 6era Takase The September 4,, 2025 meeting minutes were approved as circulated, via email on September " 2025,1the Liquor Commissionof - County of on October MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - • i; PAGE►