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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-05-07 Liquor Commission Minutes HiloCOUNTY OF HAWAI`I DEPARTMENT OF LIQUOR CONTROL LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES — MAY 79 2026 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 Yadao at 10:00 A.M., in the Hilo Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Au pu n i Street, Unit 230, Hilo, Hawaii. The following were present and constituted a quorum: Commissioners: Jennifer Yadao, Chair Wil Okabe, Vice Chair Steve Morifuji, Commissioner Laurisa Nishimoto, Commissioner Alan Okamoto, Commissioner Arthur Taniguchi, Commissioner Absent and Excused: Gene Nakashima, Commissioner Melvin Ventura, Commissioner Others Present: Stacie Waltjen, Director Brandon Gonzalez, Administrative Officer Cameron Takamura, Deputy Corporation Counsel ZoeAnn Bertelmann, Licensing Officer Hau`oli Sayles, Commission Secretary Yadao: Please silence your phones or 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 do roll call, please say present when your name is called. Sayles: Vice Chair Okabe. Okabe: Here. Sayles: Commissioner Morifuji. Morifuji: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Nishimoto. Nishimoto: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Okamoto. Okamoto: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Taniguchi. Taniguchi: Present. Sayles: Chair Yadao. Yadao: Present. Sayles: Absent and excused today are Commissioner Gene Nakashima and Commissioner Melvin Ventura. Others present are Director Stacie Waltjen, Administrative Officer Brandon Gonzalez, Deputy Corporation Counsel Cameron Takamura, Licensing Officer Zoe Bertelmann, and Commission Secretary Hau`oli Sayles. II. Approval of Minutes —April 2, 2026 (10:01AM) Yadao: The April 2, 2026, regular session minutes were circulated via email on April 30, 2026. Is there a motion to approve regular meeting minutes as circulated? Okabe: So moved. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Okabe moved to approve the April 2, 2026, Liquor Commission meeting minutes as circulated; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Yadao: Any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 2 OF 38 Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. The motion was carried unanimously. III. Approval of Addendum and/or Supplemental Agenda (10:02 AM) Yadao: There is no addendum and/or supplemental agenda at this time. IV. Public Statements on Agenda Items (10:02 AM) Yadao: Interested persons wishing to provide testimony on any agenda item may do so now or at the time the specific agenda item is called. Any statements from members of the public at this time? There were no statements from members of the public. V. Public Hearings (10:03 AM) NEXT TWO ITEMS WERE TAKEN AT ONCE 1. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:03 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 2. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 25-15 Kanikapila Cafe, LLC Hale Kanikapila 168 Keawe Street, Hilo, H awa i i 2-3-006:007 Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2 25-16 Kanikapila Cafe, LLC Keawe Trading Post 168 Keawe Street, Hilo, H awa i i 2-3-006:007 Original Retail General liquor license Representing applicant: Thomas Kerns, and Jayne Kerns, Co -owners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 3 OF 38 Yadao: Morning, if you could please state your name and relationship to the business. Kerns (Thomas): Thomas Kerns, President and Managing Member of the LLC (Limited Liability Company). Kerns (Jayne): Jayne Kerns, Secretary and Treasurer of Hale Kanikapila. Yadao: Can you please describe your business? Kerns (Thomas): Yeah, it's a restaurant and bar, and music venue, it'll be focused as a community gathering place serving food and beverage, and local entertainment. Yadao: Have you received the application reports? Kerns (Thomas): Yes. Yadao: Are there any changes to the reports? Kerns (Thomas): No, there are none that I'm aware of. Yadao: Director, any report of protests? Waltjen: For Kanikapila Caf6, LLC, dba Hale Kanikapila, the applicant mailed 12 out of 12 notices within 100 feet, 97 out of 102 notices within 500 feet. There were 92 properties within 500 feet entitled to protest, we received no protests to this application. Regarding Kanikapila Caf6, LLC, dba Keawe Trading Post, the applicant mailed 12 out of 12 notices within 100 feet, 97 out of 102 notices within 500 feet. There were 92 properties within 500 feet entitled to protest, we received no protests to this application. Yadao: Thank you, is there any public testimony? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Seeing none, Commission is there any discussion or questions? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Seeing none, is there a motion to close the public hearings? Gonzalez: Thank you, Madame Chair, I do have a couple of questions for the applicant. Your application describes your menu items as Pacific fusion, Pan -Pacific and Hawaiian fusion, lunch and dinner menus. Can you give us some examples of what you guys plan to serve? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 4 OF 38 Kerns (Thomas): Sure, we're doing a fusion of different ideas from Hawaii food culture through history, but a fusion with what you might be familiar with but a little different twist. So, we have like jackfruit with kung pao spices, burger with kimchi, we have a lettuce cup that has sisig from Filipino culture. We do kind of a snack mix that has furikake, chex mix, and nuts. Gonzalez: Yeah, I saw you carrying the menu in that's why, that's why I had to ask the question. So, this is the old Hilo Town Tavern location? Kerns (Thomas): Correct. Gonzalez: Thank you. Thank you, Madame Chair. Yadao: If no further questions or discussions, is there a motion to close public hearings? Taniguchi: Move to close public hearings. Yadao: Is there a second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to close the public hearings; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Seeing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. The motion was carried unanimously. Yadao: Is there a motion to approve or deny Application Nos. 25-15 and 25-16, pending final inspections? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, move to approve Application Nos. 25-15 and 25-16, pending final inspections. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 5 OF 38 Okabe: Second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application Nos. 25-15 AND 25-16, Kanikapila Cafe, LLC, dba Hale Kanikapila, dba Keawe Trading Post, for an Original Restaurant General, Category B2, AND Retail General liquor licenses, located at 168 Keawe Street, Hilo, Hawaii, TMK: 2-3-006:007, pending final inspections; Seconded by Commissioner Okabe. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Seeing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 3. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:07 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 25-17 Hawaiian Shrimp LLC Hawaiian Shrimp Restaurant 16-119 Orchidland Drive, Suite 131, Kea`au, Hawaii 1-6-009:386 Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2 Representing applicant: Waylon Nihipali, Owner. Yadao: Can you please state your name and relationship to the business? Nihipali: Waylon Nihipali, and I am the owner. Yadao: Thank you, if you could describe your business. Nihipali: It's sort of a surf n turf and with some local cuisine, mainly steak and shrimp type of dishes, and we will have a bunch of local pupus this time, and yeah mainly we specialize in seafood and steak type of dishes. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 6 OF 38 Yadao: Thank you, have you received the application report? Nihipali: Yes. Yadao: Any changes to the report? Nihipali: The dba (doing business as), we're currently filing with the DCCA (Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs) to change the dba (doing business as) name to "Surf and Saddle." Yadao: Director, any report of protests? Waltjen: Chair, the applicant mailed 2 out of 2 notices within 100 feet, 26 out of 26 notices within 500 feet. There were 26 properties within 500 feet entitled to protest, we received no protests to this application. Yadao: Thank you. Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Seeing none. Commission, do you have any discussion or questions? Morifuji: I have one, your sketch of your premises, over half the premises is not marked as consumption area, I can't make out the print, what is that? Because that's almost half of your total area. Nihipali: Sorry, what was the questions? Gonzalez: So, he's asking what this is in this white area that's not highlighted? Nihipali: I'm sorry, so from the smaller end to the fatter end, up top there's two bathrooms, there's an office, and back there is the kitchen storage, walk-in reefer, and walk-in freezer. Morifuji: I see. Nihipali: So, basically non -consumption areas. Gonzalez: The center part is the kitchen area. Nihipali: That's correct, yes. Morifuji: Okay, thank you. Nishimoto: So, is this related to the place in the food court by Fun Factory? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 7 OF 38 Nihipali: I'm the owner for that too but there's no relation though, the two businesses are completely separate. Nishimoto: So, the two businesses will be open, then? Nihipali: No, I'm going to close down the Hilo one, I mean I'm looking to relocate the Hilo one into like a bigger spot. Nishimoto: I see, I was just wondering. Nihipali: Yeah, it's different, it's a different LLC (Limited Liability Company) but yeah, we're planning to move that one into a bigger spot, so kind of make it like the Orchidland one, it's a little small for us. Nishimoto: Thank you. Yadao: If no further questions, can I have a motion to close public hearing? Okabe: So moved. Yadao: Is there a second? Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Okabe moved to close the public hearing; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. The motion was carried unanimously. Yadao: Can I have a motion to approve or deny Application No. 25-17, pending final inspection? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, move to approve Application No. 25-17, pending final inspection. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 8 OF 38 Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve Application No. 25-17, Hawaiian Shrimp LLC, dba Surf and Saddle, for an Original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at 16-119 Orchidland Drive, Suite 131, Keaau, Hawaii, TMK: 1-6-009:386, pending final inspection; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. The motion was carried unanimously. VI. Preliminary Hearings (10:12 AM) NEXT TWO ITEMS WERE TAKEN AT ONCE 1. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:12 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: AND 2. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: T25-18 Kona Inn Restaurant, LLC Kona Inn Restaurant Kona Inn Shopping Village, 75-5744 Ali`i Drive, #135, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 7-5-007:021 Sale and Transfer of the Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, currently held by Wind & Sea Restaurant, Inc., dba Kona Inn Restaurant T25-19 Kona Ocean Club, LLC Kona Canoe Club Kona Inn Shopping Village, #21, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 75-5744 AI i `i Drive, MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 9 OF 38 TM K: 7-5-007:021 LICENSE APPLIED FOR: Sale and Transfer of the Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, currently held by Wind & Sea Restaurant, Inc., dba Kona Canoe Club Representing applicant: Matthew Mather, Owner. Yadao: Good morning, if you could please state your name and relationship to the business. Mather: Matthew Mather, Partner. Yadao: If you could please describe your businesses. Mather: So, Kona Inn is a restaurant with full bar, we're starting live entertainment several nights a week, the menu would stay the same adding steaks, but mainly steak, seafood, fresh fish, and chicken. Yadao: Have you received the application reports? Mather: Yes. Yadao: Are there any changes to the reports? Mather: Not for Kona Inn. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Seeing none, Commission is there any discussion or questions? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Gonzalez: You made a statement that there's no changes to the report for Kona Inn, is there a change in the report for the Kona Ocean Club? Mather: Yes, Kona Ocean Club, the dba (doing business as) we are changing from "Kona Canoe Club" to "Voyagers". Gonzalez: Thank you, because we called both at the same time. Mather: Yes. Morifuji: You know on your Personal History and Affidavit for Mr. Otte. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 10 OF 38 Mather: Yes, sir. Morifuji: He has not marked off his criminal record, if any, and if we can get that on record. I guess you're not Mister Otte, so. Mather: I'm not Mr. Otte. He does not have any criminal history but I can, do we need to just have him reapply or resubmit another one? Morifuji: Yeah. Mather: Okay. Morifuji: For both applications. Mather: Okay. Morifuji: Thank you. Yadao: If no further questions or discussion, can I have a motion to approve or deny Application Nos. T25-18 and T25-19? If approved, public hearings to be held on June 4, 2026, in Kona. Taniguchi: Move to approve. Morifuji: Second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve Application Nos. T25-18 AND T25-19, Kona Inn Restaurant, LLC, dba Kona Inn Restaurant, AND Kona Ocean Club, LLC, dba Voyagers, for a Sale and Transfer of the Restaurant General liquor licenses, Category B2 and B1, currently held by Wind & Sea Restaurant, Inc., dba Kona Inn Restaurant, dba Kona Canoe Club, located at the Kona Inn Shopping Village, 75-5744 Ah'i Drive, Suite 135 AND Suite 21, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, TMK: 7-5-007:021, with public hearings to be held on June 4, 2026, in Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Morifuji. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Seeing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 11 OF 38 There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 3. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:16 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 25-21 Tun Hawaii LLC Extraction Speakeasy 166 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii 2-3-010:006 Original Dispenser General liquor license, Category 131 Representing applicant: Michelle Agbigay, Owner, and Wesson Tuares, Authorized Representative. Yadao: Good morning, if you could please state your name and relationship to the business? Agbigay: I'm Michelle Agbigay, I'm the owner. Tuares: I'm Wesson Tuares, Authorized Representative. Yadao: If you could please describe your business. Agbigay: Yes, it's a small, intimate cocktail lounge in Downtown Hilo, where we would serve just cocktails and small bites, mostly pairings that go with those cocktails. Yadao: Have you received the application report? Agbigay: Yes. Yadao: Any changes to the report? Agbigay: No. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Seeing none. Commission, do you have any discussion or questions? Morifuji: I have questions. Hi, good morning, excuse me. According to the report, you state that the entry way, that little area would be a retail space, is that true? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 12 OF 38 Agbigay: Yes, so we lease the shop in the front and so it's not open yet, but we plan to open soon, and to have speakeasy related items, grab and go snacks, and then also selling non-alcoholic drinks and small bites with those drinks, kind of complementing the speakeasy through a pass through to that front area, and that's how you also enter the speakeasy, there's a door with an "office" sign. Morifuji: I saw that, nice pictures by the way, but that area you state that you use as a holding area? Agbigay: Yes. Morifuji: You also state that somebody will be posted out there to check ID's (identifications)? Agbigay: Yes. So that's where you would come into our shop in order to check in for your reservation area, and that's where we would check your ID (identification), and then the host or hostess will bring you back into the space. Morifuji: And there's no other entrance into the proposed license area? Agbigay: No. Right now there's a door on the side that connects us to the gallery which is the shop next door who is owned by a separate organization, but that door is locked on both sides. And then there's also a back door which is an emergency exit only, our building owners live back there. Morifuji: Is there a reason why you didn't ask for that to be included in your license premises, because the things that you just stated should be controlled by the licensed premises? Agbigay: Yeah, so I didn't ask for the, you mean the shop? Morifuji: The retail shop, correct. Agbigay: The retail shop, yeah. I didn't ask for that to be licensed because I wanted that shop to be open to the public so people who are not 21 can also come and visit the shop as well, because we're not focused on alcohol really, you know especially in the shop, we're not focused on alcohol there. We're focused on selling locally made products, especially products with our businesses that don't have a storefront and so making sure that we're sharing this space. So yeah, we just wanted people who are under 21 to be able to come inside. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 13 OF 38 Morifuji: You may want to speak to our Licensing Officer and the Director, but my concern is that, and I've not been to any bars like that on this island, but if we go in the back as a customer, you lock up the front, there's no access for the investigators to get through that unlicensed area, the investigators are to be given immediate access to all areas of the licensed premises. And then, if you leave that out, then you can actually stop them at that retail door. Agbigay: Yeah, so the front door will be, the access door to the speakeasy will be unlocked during business hours, we have to keep it that way I think especially for emergencies. And so if you know, if an inspector needed to come in, it would kind of be the same as like coming to a reservation area, right? Like you'd come in, we accept walk-ins as well, so you don't have to go through the reservation process that I kind of detailed in our business plan, you can actually walk into the shop and ask if we have space, and if we do have space then we'll let you in that way. Morifuji: Correct me if I'm wrong, Director, they can have retail operations in that area like she was suggesting without a hard and fast over 21 rule, correct? Waltjen: Yes, but I think the thought process was that the whole license area would be a dispenser and not a retail store, so because she operates only truly as a bar, you know the idea was the retail shop wasn't going to sell alcohol, it was for anybody to come in and just purchase whatever and include that as part of the dispenser area because it is going to be 21 years or older, no one can enter the speakeasy unless you're 21 years or older. Morifuji: I understand that part but as far as the retail space like isolated there for example, Waikoloa, the grocery store down there, you have a wine bar or a bar separate from the grocery area, the kids everybody can go and shop in that area without crossing the threshold of the bar, can't they be handled the same way? Waltjen: Well, you mean increase that whole area as a dispenser licensed premise? Morifuji: Yes, Whole area of the dispenser prices premise. Because my concern is. By and large they could lock the lock that Speakeasy part up with customers in it and deny investigators entrance into their retail space because it's not licensed. Waltjen: They could but I note that she understands that the retail store has to be open in order for people to even get to the speakeasy anyway, right? So, they understand that the investigators have to have access to the speakeasy lounge so, I don't anticipate them not giving them access to it. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 14 OF 38 Gonzalez: Madame Director, if I may? The questioning on this line is actually really good and I think from the enforcement perspective sir, I see your point but I think we were looking at it from a Department and working with the licensee is that you're not going to deny us access through the unlicensed premises to go check the back, like we're putting it on the record now because that was part of your understanding and your plan. Agbigay: Yeah, and that was the other thing like if someone came in, whether it's an investigator or a customer, if they want to see the back, yeah that's open too. Gonzalez: But it's kind of like how we get the owners consent to go and do our job for the liquor stuff, so that's the other way we can go about it. Morifuji: But that's a licensee, right? The owner is a licensee, so you're a licensee with one entrance into a licensed premises which is blocked off. Gonzalez: We also do with special permits though that we issue, right? Morifuji: True. Gonzalez: We get the property owner's consent. Morifuji: One -day events, yeah. Gonzalez: Yeah, yeah, so that's how we kind of viewed it, sir, I think. Morifuji: Okay, as long as the Department is comfortable with it. Gonzalez: Yeah, it's a good point to bring up. Taniguchi: I have a question, so you have appointment only, yeah? Agbigay: No, we accept walk-ins. Taniguchi: Oh, okay. So how many seats, and is there a time limit? Agbigay: So there's 21 seats, we're actually hoping to keep it to 14 though, but we can fit 21 people, so that would be our max capacity. So time limit is 90 minutes. Taniguchi: Okay, yeah because this is one of the more detailed business plans that we've seen so I compliment you on that. My other question is are the prices going to be higher than a regular bar because of the exclusivity? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 15 OF 38 Agbigay: So initially when I do my own research and I just look at comparisons and like what our cost will be, the range will be about $50.00 to $65.00 per person to start, that's what we're expecting the spend to be. We have a two -drink minimum and that will include like that you know that pairing or that bite that we have on the side. So yeah, that's what that's like. Taniguchi: But it's not going to cost any more to go in? Agbigay: No. Taniguchi: So, you can make reservations like a regular restaurant? Agbigay: Yes. Taniguchi: Okay, well good, good luck, good idea. Okabe: I have a question, so is this the only establishment that has this type of situation with the front and the back like that, or is this a unique situation? Waltjen: So Hale Kanikapila and the Keawe Trading Post is similar but they actually have a retail license within their restaurant license, right? So, they'll have two licenses within one establishment. The other one was going to be like something out in Waikoloa but similar, retail as soon as you walk in, retail license in the front, and as you proceed further, restaurant license. Morifuji: Both have liquor licenses though, right? This one the first beginning part does not have. Okabe: So basically it's because of cost in a sense, so if you have the first one right there, there's no cost for liquor license in the beginning because there's no liquor store, this place you have to pay for the liquor license, right? So, they did it the other way, they paid for two licenses, front and the back. Waltjen: Yeah, but they're not gonna sell any retail. Okabe: Yeah, no they're not so you actually saving, right? Because there's no liquor sales in the front. Gonzalez: For a liquor license yes, but that's I think was Commissioner Morifuji's point like how come they couldn't get the front as a retail license? Waltjen: Or just extended the dispenser license. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 16 OF 38 Morifuji: And it doesn't cost them more because they're paying, I don't know what the dispenser license is but you're paying just for that one dispenser license, you not paying for a retail license as well, they don't sell liquor in its original package in the front. Waltjen: Or I guess the idea too was we didn't want to have consumption in the retail area too, right? So that would eliminate them, people coming from the speakeasy and going to the front and consuming. Gonzalez: And then you said something too, like your products in general, you want it accessible to anyone of any age, and so our liquor rules for dispensers is age -restricted. Morifuji: But you could, I'm sorry I just wanted to make sure I clarify this for them as well, you know like your sketch here, it doesn't show the consumption area. The consumption area I assume will be in this license premises where it's marked, right? Agbigay: Yes. Morifuji: So, you could do the whole thing and this not be consumption as well. Agbigay: I didn't know that, my only concern wasn't cost actually, it was just to make sure that we weren't serving alcohol and we weren't like required to like let our guests go into the front with alcohol because we just have like in our business plan is really detailed and I just wanted to make sure that we can monitor those guests properly and then also have Morifuji: No yeah your intentions are great, but I'm just trying to help you by saying that you're going to have a dispensary license, you can talk to the Department and have this as "no consumption" if you wanted to, and then when the investigators walk through the whole area licensed, but they know in the front you don't permit consumption so you don't have it on your sketch. Gonzalez: It's not only that for dispensers, it's the age restriction so then we're creating an exception that they can have people under 21 in that retail area. Morifuji: If it's no consumption? Gonzalez: No, it's like they're not supposed to be in the premises, that's how the enforcement has been, right? So that's the issue. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 17 OF 38 Waltjen: Well, I mean and it's on the record that you folks understand that you know, the investigator or anybody from our Department has to be allowed immediate access to the speakeasy even if we have to enter, we're gonna have to enter through the unlicensed entrance which is the retail shop to get to the speakeasy, which I think that's what Commissioner Morifuji's concern is. I think he's trying to make it easier for you folks if you just extend it to include this as part of your license premise. So, we can have a further discussion with you because you still have to come before your public hearing, and we can see how that works for you folks in relation to what Commissioner Morifuji's concern is. Gonzalez: Because you folks are in control of that front area, right? It's part of your lease and that you control access, right? Agbigay: Yes. Gonzalez: Thank you. Agbigay: Yes, we're open to doing whatever it takes, yeah. Morifuji: And we're here to help you, that's what it is. Agbigay: Thank you. Yadao: If no further discussion, is there a motion to approve or deny Application No. 25-21 ? If approved, public hearing to be held on July 2, 2026, in Hilo. Okabe: Motion to approve. Morifuji: Second. Commissioner Okabe moved to approve Application No. 25-21, Tun Hawaii LLC, dba Extraction Speakeasy, for an Original Dispenser General liquor license, Category B1, located at 166 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii, TMK: 2-3-010:006, with public hearing to be held on July 2, 2026, in Hilo, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Morifuji. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 18 OF 38 Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion carried. The motion was carried unanimously. VII. Unfinished Business (10:31 AM) Yadao: There is no Unfinished Business at this time. VIII. New Business (10:31 AM) Yadao: Is there any public testimony for New Business Item Nos. 1 through 8? There were no statements from members of the public. 1. Request to Extend the Time for Issuance of License Submitted for Approval a. Duke's Kona LLC, dba Duke's Kona, RE: Application No. 24-35, requesting to extend the time for issuance of the liquor license for good (10:31 AM) cause shown for an additional 6 months, from August 6, 2026, to and including February 6, 2027, by letter received April 27, 2026, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa, 78-128 `Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Approving 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. Yadao: Is there a motion to approve with good cause? Taniguchi: Do we have to make a motion before we ask a question about the good cause? Takamura: You can make the motion and then get a second, and that will allow you to do the discussion, and then once you establish the good cause you can amend your motion to include the good cause. Taniguchi: Okay, I'll move, I got a question on that good cause. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 19 OF 38 Okabe: I 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 August 6, 2026, to and including February 6, 2027, by letter received April 27, 2026, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category 132, located at the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa, 78-128 `Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Morifuji. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? Taniguchi: Yeah, I have a question, so we have the attorney's letter, right? And it says he doesn't really state what the good cause is and there's no other letters, so did they kind of describe that to you? Waltjen: I personally didn't speak to Attorney Ueoka, but I do know that there were still in passage when I was talking to him, he had said that they're just you know finishing up the renovations to Duke's but I'm not sure if it's from construction. Taniguchi: Yeah, so is that good cause enough? I'm sure they want to open as soon as they can. Waltjen: Oh yeah, and the fact that he only asked for six months versus a year, it just makes me think that they're close to it but just not quite there. Taniguchi: Cause usually like we've had, you know they having problems with certain Department or whatever, yeah? But this one doesn't say that, it's just saying that it's ongoing, so. Gonzalez: Some attorneys are very graceful in how they word it so that they don't make other Department's look bad, that's how I would categorize it, great observation though. Yadao: So, if no further discussion, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 20 OF 38 2. Change in Managers/Members/Officers/Directors Submitted for Approval (10: 34 AM) a. Ka La Corporation, dba Plantation Market, requesting approval of Change in Officers and Application for Transfer of Stock as follows: • Removal of Gregory Chilton, President; • Change in Title of Jaycob Chilton, from Secretary and Treasurer, to President, Secretary, and Treasurer; • Transfer of 51% stock shares held by Gregory Chilton to Jaycob Chilton (9%), Crystal Scelza (6%), Jannah Chilton (12%), Jaycie Chilton (12%), and Chase Chilton (12%); effective August 8, 2025, by form received March 24, 2026; of its Retail General liquor license, located at 55-515 Hawi Road, Building #1, Hawi, Hawaii. Yadao: Is there a motion to approve? Okabe: Motion to approve. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Okabe moved to approve the Change in Officers and Application for Transfer of Stock as follows: Removal of Gregory Chilton, President; Change in Title of Jaycob Chilton, from Secretary and Treasurer, to President, Secretary, and Treasurer; Transfer of 51 % stock shares held by Gregory Chilton to Jaycob Chilton (9%), Crystal Scelza (6%), Jannah Chilton (12%), Jaycie Chilton (12%), and Chase Chilton (12%); effective August 8, 2025, by form received March 24, 2026; of its Retail General liquor license, located at 55-515 Hawi Road, Building #1, Hawi, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Yadao: Any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 21 OF 38 Yadao: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. b. Kukio Golf and Beach Club, Inc., dba Kukio Golf and Beach Club, Inc., dba Kukio Golf and Beach Club, Inc., (Retail), requesting approval (10:35 AM) of Change in Officers/Directors as follows: • Removal of Michael Breen, Treasurer, Secretary, and Director; • Change in Title of William Rieflin, from Director to Treasurer, Secretary, and Director; • Appointment of Jamie Weinstein, as Director; • Personal History and Affidavit for Jamie Weinstein, Director; effective March 9, 2026) by form received March 25, 2026; of its Retail General liquor license and Club liquor license, Category B2, located at 72-250 Kukio Nui Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Yadao: Is there a motion to approve? Nishimoto: Motion to approve. Okabe: Second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve the Change in Officers/Directors as follows: Removal of Michael Breen, Treasurer, Secretary, and Director; Change in Title of William Rieflin, from Director, to Treasurer, Secretary, and Director; Appointment of Jamie Weinstein, as Director; Personal History and Affidavit for Jamie Weinstein, Director; effective March 9, 2026, by form received March 25, 2026; of its Retail General liquor license, and Club liquor license, Category B2, located at 72-250 Kukio Nui Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Okabe. Yadao: Any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 22 OF 38 There was no opposition by Commissioners. The motion was carried unanimously. C. Longs Drug Stores California, L.L.C., dba Longs Drugs #9936 (Keauhou), dba Longs Drugs #9620 (Kilauea), dba Longs Drugs (10:35 AM) #9249 (Lanihau), dba Longs Drugs #9227 (Puainako), dba Longs Drugs #7098 (Pahoa), dba Longs Drugs #6870 (Keaau), dba Longs Drugs #2406 (Waimea), requesting approval of Change in Officers as Primary Decision -Makers as follows: • Removal of Carol DeNale, Senior Vice President, Treasurer, and Primary Decision -Maker; and Kevin Dehner, Assistant Secretary and Primary Decision -Maker; • Appointment of Tracy Smith, Senior Vice President and Treasurer, as Primary Decision -Maker; Paul Isabella, Jr., Assistant Treasurer, as Primary Decision -Maker; Kimberley DeSousa, Assistant Secretary as Primary Decision -Maker; Leo Lariviere, Assistant Secretary as Primary Decision -Maker; and Christy Letourneau, Assistant Secretary, as Primary Decision -Maker; • Personal History and Affidavits for Tracy Smith, Paul Isabella, Jr., Kimberley DeSousa, Leo Lariviere, and Christy Letourneau, Primary Decision -Makers; effective February 1, 2026, by form received February 26, 2026; of its Retail General liquor licenses, for all Hawaii Island store locations. Yadao: Is there a motion to approve? Okabe: Motion to approve. Yadao: Is there a second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 23 OF 38 Commissioner Okabe moved to approve the Change in Officers as Primary Decision -Makers as follows: Removal of Carol DeNale, Senior Vice President, Treasurer, and Primary Decision -Maker; and Kevin Dehner, Assistant Secretary and Primary Decision -Maker; Appointment of Tracy Smith, Senior Vice President and Treasurer, as Primary Decision -Maker; Paul Isabella, Jr., Assistant Treasurer, as Primary Decision -Maker; Kimberley DeSousa, Assistant Secretary as Primary Decision -Maker; Leo Lariviere, Assistant Secretary as Primary Decision -Maker; and Christy Letourneau, Assistant Secretary, as Primary Decision -Maker; Personal History and Affidavits for Tracy Smith, Paul Isabella, Jr., Kimberley DeSousa, Leo Lariviere, and Christy Letourneau, Primary Decision -Makers; effective February 1, 2026, by form received February 26, 2026; of its Retail General liquor licenses, for all Hawaii Island store locations; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Yadao: Any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 24 OF 38 d. AHRC LLC, dba Fish and the Hog (The), requesting approval of Change in Managers and Application for Transfer of Membership (10:36 AM) Interest as follows: • Removal of Zoe Smith, Manager; • Appointment of Benjamin Krueger, as Manager; • Transfer of 5% membership interest held by Zoe Smith to Benjamin Krueger, Manager; • Transfer of 45% membership interest held by Lisa Vann, to Benjamin Krueger, Manager; • Personal History and Affidavit for Benjamin Krueger, Manager; effective October 12, 2025) by forms received April 21, 2026; of its Dispenser General liquor license, Category B1, located at 64-957 Mamalahoa Highway, Kamuela, Hawaii. Yadao: Is there a motion to approve? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to approve. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve the Change in Managers and Application for Transfer of Membership Interest as follows: Removal of Zoe Smith, Manager; Appointment of Benjamin Krueger, as Manager; Transfer of 5% membership interest held by Zoe Smith to Benjamin Krueger, Manager; Transfer of 45% membership interest held by Lisa Vann, to Benjamin Krueger, Manager; Personal History and Affidavit for Benjamin Krueger, Manager; effective October 12, 2025, by forms received April 21, 2026; of its Dispenser General liquor license, Category B1, located at 64-957 Mamalahoa Highway, Kamuela, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Yadao: Any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 25 OF 38 Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. e. Hawaii High Country Lounge, LLC, dba Hawaii High Country Lounge, requesting approval of Change in Members and Application for Transfer (10:37 AM) of Membership Interest as follows: • Removal of Ben Ketel, Member; • Appointment of Jacqueline Raffaele, as Member; • Transfer of 50% membership interest held by Ben Ketel to Jacqueline Raffaele, Member; • Personal History and Affidavit for Jacqueline Raffaele, Member; effective December 31, 2025) by forms received March 27, 2026; of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category A, located at 19-3948 Old Volcano Road, Volcano, Hawaii. Yadao: Is there a motion to approve? Taniguchi: Move to approve. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the Change in Members and Application for Transfer of Membership Interest as follows: Removal of Ben Ketel, Member; Appointment of Jacqueline Raffaele, as Member; Transfer of 50% membership interest held by Ben Ketel to Jacqueline Raffaele, Member; Personal History and Affidavit for Jacqueline Raffaele, Member; effective December 31, 2025, by forms received March 27, 2026; of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category A, located at 19-3948 Old Volcano Road, Volcano, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Yadao: Any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 26 OF 38 There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 3. Permits Issued for Ratification (10:37 AM) a. Christopher Camero Memorial VFW Post 12122, dba VFW Post 12122, ratification of Application for Game Permits, for an event on April 16, 2026; and events on April 1-30, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on March 30, 2026; and for an event on May 21, 2026; and events on May 1-31, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on April 24, 2026; of its Temporary Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at 74-5543 Kaiwi Street, Suite 3-A185a and 3-A185b, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. b. Masaki Miyazawa, Solicitor, Wismettac Asian Foods, ratification of Application for Solicitor's Permit, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on April 6, 2026; of its Wholesaler -General liquor license, located at 331 Libby Street, Honolulu, Hawaii. C. Mauna Kea Resort LLC, dba Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, ratification of Application for Alteration Permit, for alteration of fitness center to mixed - use space/lounge of approximately 2,544 square feet; approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on April 6, 2026, of its Hotel liquor license, located at 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Drive, Kamuela, Hawaii. d. Berj Corporation, dba My Bar, ratification of Application for Game Permits, for events on April 12 & April 19, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on April 7, 2026, of its Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, located at the Luhia Center I, 74-5606 Luhia Street, Spaces Al A27 A3 and A413, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. e. Volcano Vineyards, LLC, dba Volcano Winery, ratification of Application for Entertainment Permit, for an event on April 25, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on April 20, 2026; of its Winery liquor license, Category A, located at the Volcano Golf Course Subdivision, 35 Pi`i Mauna Drive, Volcano, Hawaii. Yadao: Is there a motion to ratify? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to ratify. Okabe: Second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 27 OF 38 Commissioner Nishimoto moved to ratify Permits Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 3(a) through 3(e), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Okabe. Morifuji: I have a question on one of those permits, the VFW Post 12122 game permits, it's supposed to be for one day events but I know maybe this is just to save time but the second application says from April 1st through the 30t". Waltjen: Yes, so Commissioner Morifuji, I believe they don't have it on every day but they also don't have it on set days is my understanding, so they just you know they Morifuji: Covering the bases. Waltjen: Yes. Morifuji: All right. Mr. Gonzalez, will you send the investigators to do compliance checks for these things? Gonzalez: We certainly can. Morifuji: Excellent. Okabe: Is it hard to monitor when it's like that? Gonzalez: It is but at this venue they actually have a bulletin board where they put all the events for the members to see, so our investigators when they do checks they take note of what types of events are being held. Yadao: If no further discussion, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 28 OF 38 4. Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises Issued for Ratification (10:39 AM) a. KBXtreme, LLC, dba KBXtreme, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on March 27, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on March 27, 2026, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at 75-5591 Palani Road, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. b. Big Hitter Enterprises, LLC, dba Willie's Hot Chicken, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on April 18, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on April 15, 2026, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at 75-5599 Pawai Place, Bays 1 & 27 Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. C. Los Habaneros, Inc., dba Los Habaneros, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on May 5, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on April 16, 2026, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at the Keauhou Shopping Center, 78-6831 Ali`i Drive, #405, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. d. The Kona Coffee & Tea Company, Inc., dba Kona Coffee & Tea Company, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for events on April 24, and May 8, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on April 20, 2026, of its Restaurant Beer and Wine liquor license, Category B2, located at the Kona Coast Shopping Center, 74-5588 Palani Road, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. e. Tommy Bahama Beverages, LLC, dba Tommy Bahama's Tropical Cafe, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, to include the Shops at Mauna Lani Courtyard for an event on May 12, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on April 22, 2026, of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at The Shops at Mauna Lani, 68-1330 Mauna Lani Drive, Suite 101, Kamuela, Hawaii. Yadao: Is there a motion to ratify? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to ratify. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to ratify Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 4(a) through 4(e), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 29 OF 38 Yadao: Any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 5. Temporary License Issued for Ratification (10:40 AM) a. License No. T-CRAFT-903-C, Hawaiian Ola Brewing Corporation, dba Ola Brew Co. (3rd location), Temporary Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category B2, located at 26-238 Hawaii Belt Road, Hilo, Hawaii, effective April 1, 2026. Yadao: Is there a motion to ratify? Taniguchi: Move to ratify. Yadao: Is there a second? Okamoto: Second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to ratify Temporary License Issued for Ratification, Item No. 5(a), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Okamoto. Yadao: Any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Seeing none, all in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 30 OF 38 There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 6. Special Licenses Issued for Ratification (10:40 AM) a. License No. SP-25-128, Donkey Mill Art Center, dba Donkey Mill Art Center, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on April 4, 2026, held at 78-6670 Mamalahoa Highway, Holualoa, Hawaii. b. License No. SP-25-129, Aloha Performing Arts Company, dba Aloha Theatre, for a Special General liquor license, for events on April 3-4, 107 17-19, 24-26, & 28, 2026, held at the Aloha Theatre, 79-7384 Mamalahoa Highway, Kealakekua, Hawaii. C. License No. SP-25-130, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba The Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on April 6-117 2026, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. d. License No. SP-25-131, Pahoa Lava Zone Museum, dba Pahoa Lava Zone Museum, for a Special General liquor license, for events on April 3- 47 10-11, 17-18, 24-25; May 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23; 29-30; June 5-6, 12- 13, 19-20, 26-27, 2026, held at 15-2942 Pahoa Village Road, Pahoa, Hawaii. e. License No. SP-25-132, University of Hawaii Foundation, dba University of Hawaii Foundation, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on April 18, 2026, held at the HCC Manono Campus, 1175 Manono Street, Hilo, Hawaii. f. License No. SP-25-133, Kona Cacao Association Inc., dba Kona Cacao Association Inc., for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on April 25, 2026, held at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, 69-275 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa, Hawaii. g. License No. SP-25-134, 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 April 17, 2026, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 31 OF 38 h. License No. SP-25-135, 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 April 25, 2026, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. i. License No. SP-25-136, 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 April 24, 2026, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. j. License No. SP-25-137, Japanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Hawaii, dba Japanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Hawaii, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on May 8, 2026, held at Puna Hongwanji Mission, 16-492 Old Volcano Road, Keaau, Hawaii. Yadao: Is there a motion to ratify? Okabe: Motion to ratify. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Okabe moved to ratify Special Licenses Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 6(a) through 60), License Nos. SP-25-128 through SP-25-137, as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Yadao: Any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 32 OF 38 7. Transient Vessel Licenses Issued for Ratification (10:41 AM) a. License No. TV-25-042, Intercruises as agents for Silver Cruises LLC, dba Silver Whisper, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on May 16, 2026. b. License No. TV-25-043, Intercruises as agents for Silver Cruises LLC, dba Silver Whisper, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on May 21, 2026. C. License No. TV-25-044, NCL (Bahamas) Ltd., dba Norwegian Spirit, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on May 24 & 31, 2026. d. License No. TV-25-045, NCL (Bahamas) Ltd., dba Norwegian Spirit, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on May 30, 2026. e. License No. TV-25-046, Norton Lilly International, Inc. dba Asuka II, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on May 24, 2026. Yadao: Is there a motion to ratify? Okabe: Move to ratify. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Okabe moved to ratify Transient Vessel Licenses Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 7(a) through 7(e), License Nos. TV-24-042 through TV-24-046, as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Yadao: Any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion has carried. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 33 OF 38 The motion was carried unanimously. 8. Acceptance of Report of Gross Revenues of Food and Beverage Sales for Class 2 Restaurant Licensees showing food sales are at least 30% of (10:41 AM) total gross revenues for the period July 1, 2025 through March 31, 2026, pursuant to Rule 3-1-C and 4-7-A-5 of the Rules and Regulations of the Liquor Commission of the County of Hawaii: 4K Hawaii Pacific LLC, dba 4K YAKINIKU BAR & GRILL; A-Bay's Cantina LLC, dba A-BAY'S ISLAND GRILL; Aloha Vibes Bar & Grill LLC, dba ALOHA VIBES BAR & GRILL; Anthony's Catering Inc., dba ANTHONY'S CATERING; The Kalama Beach Corporation, dba ANYTIME BAR; Baan Thai Family Cuisine LLC, dba BARN THAI FAMILY CUISINE; Ohana Lea, Incorporated, dba BAMBOO RESTAURANT & GALLERY; Yummy Pineapple Beer Co. LLC, dba BIANELLIS PIZZA; Big Island Fireart Inc., dba BIG ISLAND FIREART; Big Island Grill Inc., dba BIG ISLAND GRILL INC.; Big Island Pizza Inc., dba BIG ISLAND PIZZA; Big Kahuna Beach Grill LLC, dba BIG KAHUNA BEACH GRILL; Maluhia Nahele Enterprises, LLC, dba BLACK ROCK CAFE; Black Rock Pizza, LLC, dba BLACK ROCK PIZZA; Akatsuki International Corporation, dba CAFE IL MONDO; Kawaihae Pizza, Inc., dba CAFE PESTO HILO BAY; Tiki Guys LLC, dba CHEEKY TIKI; Chefs and Table Kona LLC, dba CHEFS AND TABLE; Cipriano's Kitchen Kawaiahe LLC, dba CIPRIANO'S KITCHEN KAWAIHAE; The Club at Hokuli`a, Inc., dba CLUB AT HOKULI`A (THE); Coco Cantina Hilo LLC, dba COCO CANTINA HILO; Paradise Hospitality Group, Inc., dba COCONUT GRILL; Countryside Cafe LLC, dba COUNTRYSIDE CAFE; Layne T. Oki, Inc., dba CRONIES; Wishard Enterprises, LLC, dba DOM DE LUCA'S RESTAURANT; DCH, Inc., dba DON'S GRILL; MCM Group LLC, dba FAIRWAY GRILL; Fishhopper LLC, dba FISHHOPPER (THE); FORC LLC, dba FORC; MF Waikoloa LLC, dba FOSTER'S KITCHEN WAIKOLOA; Fumi's Kitchen, LLC, dba FUMI'S KITCHEN; Puna Chocolate Company, dba HALE COCOA; Hana Hou Restaurant Group LLC, dba HANA HOU RESTAURANT; Happiness Kona LLC, dba HAPPINESS KONA; Harbor House Kona, LLC, dba HARBOR HOUSE; Hawaii High Country Lounge, LLC, dba HAWAII HIGH COUNTRY LOUNGE; HSC Hilo LLC, dba HAWAIIAN STYLE CAFE - HILO; JDForsberg, LLC, dba RICO HAWAIIAN COFFEE; Hilo Trading Co., Ltd., dba HILO BAY CAFE; Hilo Burger Joint LLP, dba HILO BURGER JOINT; Hilo Pizza, LLC, dba HILO PIZZA CO.; DJL Holualoa LLC, dba HOLUALOA FARM KITCHEN; Lam Yim Sin Corporation, dba HONG KONG CHOP SUEY; Honokaa Public House LLC, dba HONOKAA PUBLIC HOUSE; Olu Kai, Ltd., dba HUGGO'S; Aiona Foods, LLC, dba IPPY'S HAWAIIAN BBQ; Island Hopper Pahoa LLC, dba ISLAND HOPPER TAPROOM; Maruhiro, Inc., dba IZAKAYA SHIONO; Big Island Restaurant Group, LLC, dba JACKIE REY'S O' HANA GRILL KONA; J ROG, LLC, dba JACKI E REY'S OHANA GRILL HILO; Grand 88, LLC, dba JADE PALACE; Grand 88, LLC, dba JADE PALACE CHINESE RESTAURANT; O&J LLC, dba JOHNNY'S AT WAIKOLOA VILLAGE; K.O. Pizza, dba K.O. PIZZA; Kai Kona Eats, LLC, dba KAI EATS+DRINKS; Kalikala Cuisine Inc., dba KAILUA BAY CAFE; Pahoa Productions LLC, dba KALEO'S BAR AND GRILL; Pahoa Productions LLC, dba KALEO'S MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 34 OF 38 ORCHIDLAND; Pashmina's & Gift Inc., dba KAMANA INDIAN CUISINE #2 (HILO); KBXtreme, LLC, dba KBXTREME; Dragonfly Hospitality Group, LLC, dba KENICHI PACIFIC; Transcontinental Development (Hawaii) Co., dba KINGS' COURSE AT WAIKOLOA BEACH GOLF CLUB (THE); Kona Biscuit Company, Inc., dba KONA BISCUIT CO.; The Kona Coffee & Tea Company, Inc., dba KONA COFFEE & TEA COMPANY; KONA CRUST, LLC, dba KONA CRUST PIZZA; Hawaiian Islands Trading Company LLC, dba KONA SALT FARM; ANAHKAHNA, Inc., dba KORNER POCKET BAR & GRILL (THE); Krua Thai LLC, dba KRUA THAI CUISINE; LBC Volcano LLC, dba LAN I KAI BREWING COMPANY; Lava Lava, LLC, dba LAVA LAVA BEACH CLUB; Big Island Alehouse, LLC, dba LAVERNE'S; Napua Hilo LLC, dba LEHUA RESTAURANT AT IMILOA; Los Habaneros, Inc., dba LOS HABANEROS; Luquin's Mexican Restaurant, Inc., dba LUQUIN'S 454; Luquin's Mexican Restaurant, Inc., dba LUQUIN'S CANTINA; Ulu Development LLC, dba MAGICS BEACH GRILL; A-Bay's Cantina LLC, dba MAUKA BAR AND GRILL; Marzo's Country Sports Bar & Grill LLC, dba MARZO'S COUNTRY SPORTS BAR & GRILL; Contemporary Restaurant Corporation, dba MERRIMAN'S; Toprich Inc., dba MIYAZAKI SUSHI & IZAKAYA; Louis Pauole at Miyos Restaurant LLC, dba M IYO'S RESTAURANT; Moa Kitchen LLC, dba MOA KITCHEN RESTAURANT; Mo's Fish and Chips LLC, dba MOHALA'S BAY FRONT FISH AND CHIPS; Hilo Sunrise LLC, dba MOMS HILO; Nani Mau Glory Management, LLC, dba NANI MAU GARDENS; Honoka`a Brothers, LLC, dba NAPUA AT THE MAUNA LANI BEACH CLUB; Limberg Inc., dba OCEANS SPORTS BAR AND GRILL; Kailua-Kona Restaurants, Inc., dba PANCHO AND LEFTY'S CANTINA & RESTAURANTE; Papa Kona Coffee & Events, LLC, dba PAPA KONA COFFEE & EVENTS (RESTAURANT); Papaaloa Market & Cafe LLC, dba PAPA`ALOA COUNTRY STORE & CAFE (CAFE); Daisuki Gyoza LLC, dba PARADISE DINER; Papale LLC, dba PATINA; Patricio's Mexican Taqueria, Inc., dba PATRICIO'S MEXICAN TAQUERIA #2; Pau Restaurant & Catering, LLC, dba PAU PIZZA; Kim Anh 88, Inc., dba PHO KIM AN (WAIMEA); Grand 88, LLC, dba PHO KIM ANH; Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine, LLC, dba PINEAPPLES RESTAURANT; Ponds Hilo, Inc., dba PONDS HILO; Pueo's Osteria, LLC, dba PUEO'S OSTERIA; Puna Chocolate Company, dba PUNA CHOCOLATE COMPANY; JTJ Enterprises, Inc., dba QUINN'S; Rebel Kitchen LLC, dba REBEL KITCHEN; Reuben's Mexican Restaurant I, LLC, dba REUBEN'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT; Rock N Crab Cajun Restaurant Inc., dba ROCK N CRAB CAJUN RESTAURANT; RY-5, Inc., dba ROY'S WAIKOLOA BAR & GRILL; Krislada, LLC, dba ROYAL THAI CAFE; Sakura Kona LLC, dba SAKURA JAPANESE RESTAURANT; Sakura Hilo LLC, dba SAKURA SUSHI & GRILL; The Seaside, Inc., dba SEASIDE RESTAURANT (THE); Chie Mizukami, dba SEIJ I'S SUSHI; Smash Daddy's LLC, dba SMASH DADDY'S; Sodexo America, LLC, dba SODEXO AMERICA, LLC; Volume Services, Inc., dba SODEXO LIVE! - HILO; Ti ki Guys LLC, dba SPINNERS KAI LUA CANTINA; Kona Daze, LLC, dba SUNSET KAI LANAI; TTG, LLC, dba SUNSET TERRACE; Moa Kitchen LLC, dba SUSHI HANA; Sam's Sushi Inc., dba SUSHI SAM; Tacos Jalisco Taqueria LLLP, dba TACOS JALISCO TAQUERIA; Taka Sushi Inc., dba TAKA SUSHI; SML Hawaii LLC, dba TEQUILAS HAWAI I; Maurice Thomas, dba THAI MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 35 OF 38 THAI BISTRO & BAR; Hatch Enterprises Incorporated, dba THE TEMPLE; Tommy Bahama R&R Holdings, Inc., dba TOMMY BAHAMA MARLIN BAR; Tommy Bahama Beverages, LLC, dba TOMMY BAHAMA'S TROPICAL CAFE; Tropics Ale House LLC, dba TROPICS ALE HOUSE; Umekes, LLC, dba UMEKE'S FISH MARKET BAR & GRILL; Christopher Camero Memorial VFW Post 12122, dba VFW POST 12122; Vibe Cafe L.L.C., dba VIBE CAFE; AOK Enterprises, Inc., dba VOLCANO'S LAVA ROCK CAFE; Waikoloa Village Association, dba WAIKOLOA VILLAGE GOLF COURSE; Waimea Butcher Shop, LLC, dba WAIMEA BUTCHER SHOP; MamaMaria L.L.C., dba WAIMEA COFFEE COMPANY; Walua Social LLC, dba WALUA SOCIAL; Big Hitter Enterprises, LLC, dba WILLIE'S HOT CHICKEN; Wyatt's Place LLC, dba WYATT'S PLACE. Yadao: Is there a motion to accept? Okabe: So moved Yadao: Is there a second? Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Okabe moved to accept the Report of Gross Revenues of Food and Beverage Sales for Class 2 Restaurant Licensees showing food sales are at least 30% of total gross revenues for the period July 1, 2025 through March 31, 2026, pursuant to Rule 3-1-C and 4-7-A-5 of the Rules and Regulations of the Liquor Commission of the County of Hawaii, as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Morifuji: Department, has anyone failed to meet the requirement of 30%? Waltjen: Commissioner Morifuji, so there is one licensee, Makalei Golf Club, that didn't meet the 30% requirement. They try and they get in the 20%, but they don't do catering, they don't do anything that a restaurant license is permitted to, so. Morifuji: So, what happens to a license like that, do they come in and apply for a Dispenser 5? Waltjen: They would just drop down to a dispenser until they can meet the 30% requirement. Morifuji: So, it's automatic your Department drops them to a 5 until they meet the 30? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 36 OF 38 Waltjen: Well historically we've given the licensees that don't reach the 30% an opportunity to reach the 30%, you know. We'll let them know they didn't quite meet the 30%, so just kind of give them a heads up and let them know. I guess if they don't you know, they will automatically be dropped down to a dispenser license from a restaurant license. Morifuji: That would be kind of problematic for some licensees for minors if you drop them to a 5, right? Waltjen: Yes. Morifuji: Thank you. Nishimoto: Commissioner Nishimoto, just a comment, I noticed in my four years that the stats on receiving the reports are really good this time, yes. It's because in the past there were a bunch of them who did not submit, and so I'm pretty impressed with the numbers. Waltjen: Thank you for noticing that, yes. And so, actually the two that is stating that they haven't submitted, they actually did submit it after we had prepared the notice and we set the agenda, so we're just going to hear those, have that additional supplementary report on our next agenda. Nishimoto: And one wasn't having any sales period, so good job. Waltjen: Thank you. Yadao: If no further discussion, let's take a vote, all those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 71 2026 - HILO PAGE 37 OF 38 IX. Announcements (10:43 AM) Meetings of the Liquor Commission June 4, 2026, 10:00 A.M., Kona Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Suite 107, Kailua- Kona, Hawaii. July 2, 2026, 10:00 A.M., Hilo Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Unit 230, Hilo, Hawaii. X. Adjournment Meeting adjourned at 10:43 A.M. Stacie T. Waltjen Director The May 7, 2026 meeting minutes were approved as circulated, via email on May 28, 2026, by the Liquor Commission of the County of Hawaii on June 4, 2026. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - TH URSDA Y, MAY 7, 2026 - HI L O PAGE 38 OF 38