HomeMy WebLinkAboutComm. No. 25-05.04 From Laila Moire-Selvage in Opposition of Salary Increases (P-11_17_25)RCVD HU A i RES 1ip cs
Yamada, Glynis
2025 NOV 12 Ami.: .
From: Laila Moire-Selvage
Sent Tuesday,November 11,2025 10:57 PM
To: Yamada,Glynis
Subject Testimony Strongly Opposing Proposed 15.29%Salary increase for Hawaii County
Officials
To:The Hawaii County Salary Commission
Date:November 11,2025(or current date of submission)
From:Laita Moire-Selvage
Regarding:Proposed Salary Schedule Adjustment for Top Hawaii County Officials(15.29%increase)
Honorable Commissioners,
I am writing to respectfully but strongly oppose the proposed 15.29%incremental salary increases for
Hawaii County's top officials,including the Mayor,Managing Director,Prosecutor,Corporation Counsel,
and Department Heads.While 1 understand the Commission is following a predetermined schedule or
assessment process,the implementation of such a significant pay hike at this specific time
demonstrates a fundamental disconnect from the economic reality faced bythe majority of Hawaii
County residents.
This is an inopportune time for the government to be prioritizing compensation increases for its highest-
paid personnel.Our community is currently navigating a challenging economic climate marked by
persistent inflation, increased cost of living, and growing financial precarity for working families.Many
residents are struggling with food insecurity,and the local effects of broader economic instability mean
savings are being depleted for basic necessities.Pushing forward with raises that would increase the
Mayor's salary by over$33,000 and the Fire Chief's by over$31,000 sends a message that the financial
well-being of government executives is prioritized over the immediate welfare and stability of the general
public.
The County administration must demonstrate exceptional fiscal responsibility,especially as we plan for
potential future economic downturns and the need for robust social safety net programs. Every budgeted
dollar must be reserved for essential services,community resilience funds,and maintaining a stable
operational budget that can adapt to unexpected crises.Approving these raises now consumes valuable
resources that should be held in reserve to address inevitable,increased community needs.
I urge the Salary Commission to re-evaluate the proposal.It is fiscally and politically imprudent to
proceed at this time. I respectfully request that the Commission delay action on this matter indefinitely,
or at least until the political and economic climate on the island demonstrates a broad-based recovery
and stability that justifies such an expenditure.
Thank you for considering my testimony. SALARY COMMiSSION
COUNTY OF HAWAI'i
Sincerely, Comm.No. 25-05..04
Leila Moire-Selvage Date P/November 17. 2025
808-
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