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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-08-06 Liquor Commission Minutes KonaCOUNTY OF HAWAI`I DEPARTMENT OF LIQUOR CONTROL LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES — AUGUST 6, 2026 HANAMA PLACE 75-5706 KUAKINI HIGHWAY SUITE 107 KAI LUA-KONA, HAWAI `I I. Call to Order The meeting was called to order by Chair Yadao at 10:01 A.M., in the Kona Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Suite 107, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. The following were present and constituted a quorum: Commissioners: Jennifer Yadao, Chair Wil Okabe, Vice Chair Tristie Licoan, Commissioner Steve Morifuji, Commissioner Gene Nakashima, Commissioner Laurisa Nishimoto, Commissioner Alan Okamoto, Commissioner Arthur Taniguchi, Commissioner Melvin Ventura, Commissioner Absent and Excused: None Others Present: Stacie Waltjen, Director Brandon Gonzalez, Administrative Officer Kevin Soong, Deputy Corporation Counsel ZoeAnn Bertelmann, Licensing Technician 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 the roll call, please say present when your name is called. Sayles: Vice Chair Okabe. Okabe: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Licoan. Licoan: Present. Sayles: Commissioner Morifuji. Morifuji: 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: Chair Yadao. Yadao: Present. Sayles: Others present are Director Stacie Waltjen, Administrative Officer Brandon Gonzalez, Deputy Corporation Counsel Kevin Soong, Licensing Officer Zoe Bertelmann, and Commission Secretary Hau`oli Sayles. II. Approval of Minutes —July 2, 2026 (10:02 AM) Yadao: The July 2, 2026, regular session minutes were circulated via email on July 30, 2026. Can I have a motion to approve regular meeting minutes as circulated? Okabe: So moved. Taniguchi: Second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 2 OF 41 Commissioner Okabe moved to approve the July 2, 2026, Liquor Commission meeting minutes as circulated; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Hearing none, is there any discussion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: All those in favor say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." 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's no addendum and/or supplemental agenda. IV. Public Statements on Agenda Items (10:03 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. Is there any statements from members of the public at this time? There were no statements from members of the public. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 3 OF 41 V. Public Hearings (10:03 AM) 1. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TM K: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: T25-22 Island Distributing, L.L.C. Island Distributing 73-4854 Kanalani Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 7-3-051-014 Sale and Transfer of the Wholesale General liquor license currently held by Young's Market Company, LLC, dba RNDC of Hawaii Yadao: At the request of the applicant, this matter will be continued to the next hearing date on September 3rd, 2026, in Hilo. Commission, is there any discussion or questions at this time? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, is there a motion to continue matter to next hearing on September 3rd, 2026, in Hilo? Okabe: So moved. Yadao: Is there a second? Ventura: Second. Commissioner Okabe moved to continue matter to September 3, 2026, in Hilo; Seconded by Commissioner Ventura. Yadao: Any public testimony? There was no public testimony. 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. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 4 OF 41 Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. VI. Preliminary Hearings (10:04 AM) 1. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10: 04 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TM K: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: T25-24 Umekes Bar and Grill, LLC Umeke's Bar and Grill 74-5599 Pawai Place, Building A, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 7-4-010:018 Sale and Transfer of the Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, currently held by Umekes, LLC, d ba Umeke's Fish Market Bar & Grill; and Ratification of Temporary Restaurant General liquor license, effective June 28, 2026 Representing applicant: Matthew Mather, Owner. Yadao: Good morning, if you could please state your name and relationship to the business. Mather: Good morning, Matthew Mather, Owner. Yadao: Can you please describe your business? Mather: Umeke's is a restaurant and bar, we also have a grab-n-go section off the side, eat -in dining, and a patio serving mainly seafood and other local -style favorites, pulehu beef and kalbi type stuff. Yadao: Have you received the report? Mather: Yes. Yadao: Are there any changes to the report? Mather: No. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Seeing none. Commission, any discussion or questions? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 5 OF 41 Morifuji: I have a question, you have some photographs on one of these pages, are you planning to serve the poke dish that you have pictured there? Mather: The big boy one? Morifuji: Yes. Mather: Yes, sir. Morifuji: Alright. You know and also I'm not familiar, I've been away from the Department for a while, I don't have a list of licensees, but the one at the airport, is that Umeke's as well? Mather: Yes. Morifuji: You're going to come in for that too? Mather: We are looking at it, it's hard because when Nakoa got the lease there, I'm not sure if that's easily transferable to a new group, but yes we are looking at it. Morifuji: I see, thank you. Mather: It was originally on the thing but I think we need to get that all squared away to be able to do the transfer at the airport. Morifuji: Okay, thanks. Yadao: If no further discussion, is there a motion to approve or deny Application No. T25-24? If approved, public hearing to be held on September 3, 2026, in Hilo. Morifuji: I move to approve Application No. T25-24. If approved, public hearing to be held on September 3, 2026, in Hilo. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Morifuji moved to approve Application No. T25-24, Umekes Bar and Grill, LLC, dba Umeke's Bar and Grill, for a Sale and Transfer of the Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, currently held by Umekes, LLC, dba Umeke's Fish Market Bar & Grill, located at 74-5599 Pawai Place, Building A, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, TMK: 7-4-010:018, with public hearing to be held on September 3, 2026, in Hilo, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 6 OF 41 There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor please say "Aye." The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. The motion was carried unanimously. Yadao: Next, is there a motion to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-REST-G-857, effective June 28, 2026? Morifuji: Motion to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-REST-G-857, effective June 28, 2026. Yadao: Is there a second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Morifuji moved to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-REST-G-857, effective June 28, 2026; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. 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. Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 7 OF 41 2. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:07 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TM K: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: T25-25 Ash & Co Hospitality LLC Layover Lounge Waiakea Kai Shopping Plaza, 88 Kanoelehua Avenue, Suite B108, Hilo, Hawaii 2-2-032:093 Sale and Transfer of the Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2 and D, currently held by Pi Yon Cho, Inc., dba Joann's Restaurant & Lounge; and Ratification of Temporary Dispenser General liquor license, effective July 2, 2026 Representing applicant: Cody Jaramillo, and Ashley Morishita, Owners. Yadao: Good morning, can you please state your name and relationship to the business? Jaramillo: Good morning, my name is Cody Jaramillo, I'm a LLC (Limited Liability Company) member. Morishita: Good morning, Ashley Morishita, LLC (Limited Liability Company) member. Yadao: Thank you, can you please describe your business? Jaramillo: Our current business is a karaoke bar and lounge serving alcohol and pupus. Yadao: Have you received the report? Jaramillo: Yes. Yadao: Are there any changes to the report? Jaramillo: No. 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. Yadao: No questions, is there a motion to approve or deny Application No. T25-25? If approved, public hearing to be held on October 1, 2026, in Kona. Okabe: Motion to approve. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 8 OF 41 Yadao: Is there a second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Okabe moved to approve Application No. T25-25, Ash & Co Hospitality LLC, dba Layover Lounge, for a Sale and Transfer of the Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2 and D, currently held by Pi Yon Cho, Inc., dba Joann's Restaurant & Lounge, located at the Waiakea Kai Shopping Plaza, 88 Kanoelehua Avenue, Suite B108, Hilo, Hawaii, TMK: 2-2-032:093, with public hearing to be held on October 1, 2026, in Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. 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. Yadao: Motion is carried. The motion was carried unanimously. Yadao: Next, is there a motion to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-DG-673, effective July 2, 2026? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-DG-673, effective July 2, 2026. Yadao: Is there a second? Okamoto: Okamoto, second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to ratify issuance of Temporary License No. T-DG-673, effective July 2, 2026; Seconded by Commissioner Okamoto. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 9 OF 41 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. 3. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:09 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 26-01 Rebel Kitchen LLC Rebel Kitchen 79-7399 Mamalahoa Highway, Kealakekua, Hawaii 7-9-009-019 Change in Kind to General, from Restaurant Beer and Wine liquor license, Category B 1 Representing applicant: Gabriela Bermudez, Owner. Yadao: Good morning, can you please state your name and relationship to the business? Bermudez: Hi, yes, Gabriela Bermudez, I'm the owner, member of the LLC (Limited Liability Company). Yadao: If you could please describe your business. Bermudez: We're a small family run restaurant, my husband took the baby out, we've been in business up in Kainaliu 15 years, we do we call it international soul food, it's a little bit of everything, salads, burgers, specialty dishes, and right now we sell beer and wine so we want to increase sales. Yadao: Thank you, have you received the report? Bermudez: Yes. Yadao: Are there any changes to the report? Bermudez: No. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 10 OF 41 There was no public testimony. Yadao: Hearing none. Commission, do we have any discussion or questions? Morifuji: I have a question, hi, you know the sketch shows the entire licensed area. The fence patio dining area, are you planning to come in for future for an increase in licensed premises because in that area no consumption, right? Bermudez: Originally we were allowed consumption in the fenced area. Morifuji: And what happened? Bermudez: We just haven't used it because staffing issues. Morifuji: I see, is that true, is it consumption area? Bermudez: Uh-hmm. Morifuji: Okay, maybe mines faded, so that's all consumption area? Bermudez: It is, yes. Morifuji: Another question I have is after all these years, why come in now for a general license? Bermudez: Everything's so expensive. Morifuji: Oh, is that right? Bermudez: You know, just trying to keep up with payments, we thought about it over and over, and now we're like you know what, we just need to do it to try to increase sales and stay competitive, a lot of new restaurants are opening up around us too. Morifuji: Good for you, thank you. Yadao: If no further questions, can I get a motion to approve or deny Application No. 26- 01 ? If approved, public hearing to be held on October 1st, 2026, in Kona. Okabe: Motion to approve. Okamoto: Okamoto, second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 11 OF 41 Commissioner Okabe moved to approve Application No. 26-01, Rebel Kitchen LLC, dba Rebel Kitchen, for a Change in Kind to General, from Restaurant Beer and Wine liquor license, Category B1, located at 79-7399 Mamalahoa Highway, Kealakekua, Hawaii, TMK: 7-9-009-019, with public hearing to be held on October 1, 2026, in Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Okamoto. 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. Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 4. APPLICATION NO.: APPLICANT: (10:12 AM) TRADE NAME: PLACE OF BUSINESS: TMK: LICENSE APPLIED FOR: 26-03 Kona Cocktail Academy LLC Big Island Bottle Shop (Dispenser) 75-5729 Ali`i Drive, #C104, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 7-5-007-005 Original Dispenser General liquor license, Category A Representing applicant: Gabrielle Maser -Smith, Owner. Yadao: Good morning, please state your name and relationship to the business. Maser -Smith: Good morning, Gabrielle user -Smith, and I am a single -member LLC (Limited Liability Company). Yadao: If you could please describe your business? Maser -Smith: So, it's a boutique liquor store, like high -end spirits mostly focusing on local, and I do tasting and cocktail classes and stuff like that. Yadao: Thank you. Have you received the report? Maser -Smith: I have. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 12 OF 41 Yadao: Are there any changes to the report? Maser -Smith: No, it's perfect. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Hearing none. Commission, is there any discussion or questions? Morifuji: I have questions, liquor storage area for your off -premises retail store, where is that located versus your liquor storage area for your dispenser request? Maser -Smith: So, everything is very expensive these days and I keep my entire stock on the shelf for the takeaway, for the on -premises I have storage underneath the counter in the back and that's where the liquor will stay, so it will be completely separate. Morifuji: So, your retail space there's no storage, it's all on the shelf? Maser -Smith: Everything's on the shelves, yes. Morifuji: I see, okay Maser -Smith: It's too expensive to have backstock these days. Morifuji: And when you conduct tastings for your retail shop, where do you propose to have that? Maser -Smith: There will be a tasting area in the off -premises area. Morifuji: In the off -premises area? Maser -Smith: Which is like what it is now. Morifuji: Okay. Maser -Smith: So all of the operations that are going on now are going to move just like 10 feet forward or 12 feet forward, and then the new square will be in the back. Morifuji: So, it's not going to occur in the on -premises area if approved? Maser -Smith: So, yeah the areas are separate, I would have classes, like the cocktail classes will probably be seated in the on -premises area. Morifuji: You can have tastings in the on -premises area as well, I'm just curious about the customers, are they going to be paying customers sitting next to people who are tasting? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 13 OF 41 Maser -Smith: Well, the tastings is paid, so they would sit down and taste, and then the customers, no it's separate. So, if they're going to taste, yeah it'll be separate because the sales are separate, everything's separate. So, and it's just me in there and then then have one other person, and I think it's best to just keep it separate, and then if somebody wants that is a paying customer that wants to come out and do a tasting, that would be separate. They could come over and do the tasting, unless it was like a tasting class in the back where everybody is tasting together, or we're working through like wine tasting. Morifuji: Okay, so if you have a tasting class, customers are paying for their drinks, or are you going to come in for a special permit? Maser -Smith: So, this is kind of the reason why I'm doing this, it's just more flexibility, right? So, like my background is education, so if I want to do a wine class, I want them to be able to come in and have you know whatever wine is on my list, and then I can be like, I can tailor special classes to them so the permit tasting will be the same but it would be like a flight that they would buy in the on -premise if that makes sense, so there will be different wine flights. Morifuji: So, if I if I tasted a wine, I like it, I can order a flight in your on -premise? Maser -Smith: No, you can order a bottle to take home, but if you're already drinking in the other side, then the other side is just take away. Morifuji: But if I choose to, let's say I'm tasting wine and I like it and my friend and I want to sit in the on -premise area, we can buy a bottle of wine in your on -premise and have it? Maser -Smith: No, you have to take it away, right? I mean you have to take it away? Morifuji: You could. Waltjen: You could have them sit on your on -premise side and just you know have the drink or order a glass of wine instead of giving them a tasting of it, you could do that. Maser -Smith: Oh and finish the bottle or have the bottle like a restaurant. Okay, that's amazing, I actually didn't think that was an option. Waltjen: I mean at the end of the day, you have to always monitor the over -service and all of that, right? Maser -Smith: 100%, yeah, okay great, thank you for clarifying, appreciate it. Ventura: So, the cocktail classes that you're teaching is that like bartender school also? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 14 OF 41 Maser -Smith: Yes, so that's what I'm trying to get up because like she said before, things are very expensive right now, we need to increase our revenues, and service is something that I could provide where I don't have to buy inventory, I can just take my skill set and then market these classes which I think is well needed in today's time for servers, bartenders, things like that. I mean, people don't even know how to make a classic martini, or if it's gin or vodka, twist or olives, right? And that's the stuff that I love, so yeah basically I want to do cocktail classes where they can come in, I make them a mai tai, then I make them a daiquiri, then I make them a pins colada, everybody tastes it, but don't have to get a permit for every spirit that I'm using for the day if that makes sense for the classes, right? Because if they're in the class area, the regular on -premise or where you can sit and drink, then they come pay for the class, and then I can make a daiquiri, a pins colada, show them how to make it old-fashioned, and I don't have to get the daytime tasting permit for the whiskey, the rum, the daiquiri. It's just to simplify the process and make hosting the process easier for the most part and also boost sales. Morifuji: Just a point of clarification, the permits doesn't break up the spirits, it's just a spirit tasting permit, right? So, it's up to you, yeah? Maser -Smith: Yeah, so I have a permit for the local stuff everyday because when people come in, that's what they want to try, they want to try Kuleana and whatnot. Morifuji: And when a licensee has a class like she's proposing, she can sell that, correct? You can sell the liquor? Maser -Smith: Right now I cannot, right now I can only taste the spirits and I can make mixed cocktails that are this big and they can taste it. Gonzalez: I think what Commissioner Morifuji is asking is if you were an on -premises licensee, and you were to do that type of classes, you would be selling it. Morifuji: Yes and it's allowed. Gonzalez: That's why she's coming in. Maser -Smith: Right, so they could take the class, try it, be like oh this is all the ingredients I need to make it, grab the booze and then take it home, you know what mean, they're taking it away. Yeah, because there's a lot of different ingredients, I mean to make a mai tai we've got a $50.00-$60.00 bottle of rum and it's like for me to make those, each cocktail is like $120.00 worth of booze just to make one cocktail, right? You need all these different bottles, so this gives me the freedom to make the cocktails in front of them, have them taste them and then yes, if they want to buy the bottle and take it away, I'm covering all my bases by having the two licenses. Gonzalez: So, your passion shows and I just wanted to make sure, so you gonna have both sides open at the same time? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 15 OF 41 Maser -Smith: Both sides will, yes. Gonzalez: That's what you would like to give you that flexibility. Maser -Smith: Yes. Gonzalez: Good, and then do you know how much walk-in traffic you normally get for your shop right now? Maser -Smith: It's mostly walk in traffic, yes. Gonzalez: How much people? Maser -Smith: I mean, Journey Cafe probably gets 100 to 150 a day, and we probably get, I don't know maybe 20 to 50 a day, 50 is a busy day like a busy Saturday, like holidays like 4th of July and stuff like that the town fills up and it goes from you know 25 to 75, or 100 easy. Gonzalez: Good, so this is supposed to you know, give another kind of opportunity or venue for people to pop in the shop? Maser -Smith: 100%, yeah. Gonzalez: Okay, thank you for that. Maser -Smith: Yes, because a lot of the wives go to Apothecary, and a lot of the husbands come look at the whiskey and they're like, can I have a beer? And I'm like, I'm sorry I can't serve you a beer right now, so this way we'll be able to take care of everybody. Gonzalez: Good, thank you. Yadao: If no further questions, may I have a motion to approve or deny Application No. 26-03? If approved, public hearing to be held on October 1, 2026, in Kona. Ventura: I move to approve Application No. 26-03. If approved, public hearing to be held on October 1, 2026, in Kona. Yadao: Is there a second? Taniguchi: Second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 16 OF 41 Commissioner Ventura moved to approve Application No. 26-03, Kona Cocktail Academy LLC, dba Big Island Bottle Shop (Dispenser), for an Original Dispenser General liquor license, Category A, located at 75- 5729 Ali `i Drive, #C 104, Kai l ua-Kona, Hawai `i, TM K: 7-5-007-005, with public hearing to be held on October 1, 2026, in Kona, Hawaii; 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. Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. THE FOLLOWING ITEM WAS TAKEN OUT OF ORDER: NEW BUSINESS ITEM NO. 3(G) VIII. New Business (10:23AM) Yadao: Is there any public testimony for New Business, Item No. 3(g)? There was no public testimony. 3. Permits Issued for Ratification (10:23 AM) g. Kona Cocktail Academy LLC, dba Big Island Bottle Shop, ratification of Application for Reduction in Licensed Premises, of approximately 172.25 square feet, of its Retail General liquor license, located at 75-5729 Ali'i Drive, #C104, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Representing licensee: Gabrielle Maser -Smith, Owner. Yadao: For the record, can you please state your name and relationship to the business? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 17 OF 41 Maser -Smith: Gabrielle Maser -Smith, single -member LLC (Limited Liability Company). Yadao: And then if you could explain the application for reduction in licensed premises. Maser -Smith: So, right now I'm off -premise and I want to make space to do on -premise to teach my classes. Yadao: Commission, you guys have any questions? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, can I have a motion to ratify application for reduction in licensed premises? Morifuji: Move to ratify. Yadao: Is there a second? Okabe: Second. Commissioner Morifuji moved to ratify Application for Reduction in Licensed Premises, of approximately 172.25 square feet, of its Retail General liquor license, located at 75-5729 Ali'i Drive, #C104, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Okabe. 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. Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. RETURNED TO THE ORDER OF BUSINESS MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 18 OF 41 VII. Unfinished Business (10:24 AM) Yadao: There is no Unfinished Business at this time. VIII. New Business (10:24AM) 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 (10: 24 AM) a. Hamakua Distillery LLC, dba Hamakua Distillery, RE: Application No. 24-41, requesting approval to extend the time for issuance of the liquor license for good cause shown for an additional 12 months, from September 47 2026, to and including September 4, 2027, by letter received June 29, 2026; of its Manufacturer liquor license, located at 28-3254 Beach Road, Pepe`ekeo, 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: I move to approve the extension, I think the applicant's letter spells it out pretty clearly the frustration they're facing, I'm sure they want to open as soon as possible as well, I feel that good cause has been recognized in the letter. Yadao: Is there a second? Okamoto: Okamoto, 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 12 months, from September 4, 2026, to and including September 4, 2027, by letter received June 29, 2026; of its Manufacturer liquor license, located at 28-3254 Beach Road, Pepe`ekeo, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Okamoto. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 19 OF 41 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. 2. Change in Officers Submitted for Approval (10:26AM) (10:26 AM) a. Outrigger Kona Resort LLC, dba Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa, requesting approval of Change in Officers, with the removal of Crystall Ho, Executive Vice President, effective May 22, 2026; by form received July 2, 2026; of its Hotel liquor license, located at 78-128 `Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Hearing none, can I have a motion to approve? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to approve. Yadao: Is there a second? Okabe: Second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to approve the Change in Officers, with the removal of Crystall Ho, Executive Vice President, effective May 22, 2026; by form received July 2, 2026; of its Hotel liquor license, located at 78-128 Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Okabe. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 20 OF 41 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. b. Food Pantry, Ltd., dba Whalers General Store #230, dba Holo Holo Market, requesting approval of Change in Officers, with the removal of (10:27 AM) Jacqueline Lucas -Lars, Vice President, effective July 3, 2026; by form received July 15, 2026; of its Retail General liquor licenses, located at the Kings' Shops, 69-250 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Suite A-5, Waikoloa, Hawaii; and 78-128 `Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Hearing none, is there a motion to approve? Taniguchi: Move to approve. Yadao: Is there a second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the Change in Officers, with the removal of Jacqueline Lucas-Lara, Vice President, effective July 3, 2026; by form received July 15, 2026; of its Retail General liquor licenses, located at the Kings' Shops, 69-250 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Suite A-5, Waikoloa, Hawaii; and 78-128 `Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 21 OF 41 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. C. The Kalama Beach Corporation, dba Malama Market (Honokaa), dba Malama Market — Ocean View, dba Malama Market Pahoa, dba (10:27 AM) Anytime Bar, requesting approval of Change in Officers, with the removal of Jacqueline Lucas -Lars, Vice President, effective July 3, 2026; by form received July 15, 2026; of its Retail General and Restaurant General liquor licenses, Category B2, for all Hawaii Island locations. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Hearing none, can I get a motion to approve? Okabe: Motion to approve. Ventura: Second. Commissioner Okabe moved to approve the Change in Officers, with the removal of Jacqueline Lucas-Lara, Vice President, effective July 3, 2026; by form received July 15, 2026; of its Retail General and Restaurant General, Category B2, liquor licenses, for all Hawaii Island locations; Seconded by Commissioner Ventura. 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." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 22 OF 41 Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. d. Foodland Super Market, Limited, dba Foodland (Keaau), dba Foodland Farms, dba Foodland Super Market — Waimea, (10:28 AM) dba Sack `N Save (Kinoole), dba Sack `N Save (Kona), dba Sack `N Save (Puainako), requesting approval of Change in Officers, with the removal of Jacqueline Lucas -Lars, Vice President, effective July 3, 2026; by form received July 15, 2026; of its Retail General liquor licenses, for all Hawaii Island store locations. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Seeing none, is there a motion to approve? Taniguchi: Move to approve. Yadao: Is there a second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to approve the Change in Officers, with the removal of Jacqueline Lucas-Lara, Vice President, effective July 3, 2026; by form received July 15, 2026; of its Retail General liquor licenses, for all Hawaii Island store locations; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. 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." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 23 OF 41 There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 3. Permits Issued for Ratification (10:29 AM) a. Kona Brewery, LLC, dba Kona Brewing Hawaii, ratification of Application for Alteration Permit, for renovations to loading area / brewing operations to become new main entrance; approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on June 22, 2026; of its Small Craft Producer Pub liquor license, Category B2, located at the Kona Industrial Subdivision, 74-5612 Pawai Place, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. b. Hilo -Hawaiian Associates, Inc., dba Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, ratification of Application for Game Permit, for an event on July 22, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on June 30, 2026; of its Hotel liquor license, located at 71 Banyan Drive, Hilo, Hawaii. C. Elaine Hee, ratification of Application for Individual Importation of Liquor Permit, for shipment of liquors as part of household goods to 17-903 Volcano Road, Kurtistown, Hawaii, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on July 1, 2026. d. The Elevation Wine Fund, LP, dba The Elevation Wine Fund, LP, ratification of Application for Outside Storage Permit, located at 74-5499 Loloku Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on July 7, 2026, of its Wholesale General liquor license, located at 74-5483 Kaiwi Street, Unit 1506, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. e. Adham Loutfi, ratification of Application for Individual Importation of Liquor Permit, for shipment of liquors as part of household goods to 75-370 Aloha Kona Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on July 8, 2026. f. Volcano Vineyards, LLC, dba Volcano Winery, ratification of Application for Entertainment Permit, for events on July 12, 25-26, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on July 10, 2026; of its Winery liquor license, Category A, located at the Volcano Golf Course Subdivision, 35 Pi`i Mauna Drive, Volcano, Hawaii. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 24 OF 41 ITEM g. Kona Cocktail Academy LLC, dba Big Island Bottle Shop, ratification of ALREADY Application for Reduction in Licensed Premises, of approximately 172.25 TAKEN OUT square feet, of its Retail General liquor license, located at OF ORDER 75-5729 Ali'i Drive, #C104, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. h. Shrimp Improvement Systems Hawaii, ratification of Application for Alcohol Purchase Permit, for 4 liters of ethanol 200 proof undenatured, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on July 20, 2026; and Personal History and Affidavit for Patrict Thompson; stored at 73-4365 Ilikai Place, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Hearing none, can I get a motion to ratify? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, motion to ratify. Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Nishimoto moved to ratify Permits Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 3(a) through 3(f) AND 3(h), as stated in the agenda; 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. Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 25 OF 41 4. Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises Issued for Ratification (10:30 AM) a. DJL Holualoa LLC, dba Holualoa Farm Kitchen, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on June 28, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on June 26, 2026; of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at 76-5900 Old Government Road, Holualoa, Hawaii. b. Hawaii High Country Lounge, LLC, dba Hawaii High Country Lounge, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on July 25-26, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on July 21, 2026; of its Restaurant General liquor license, Category A, located at 19-3948 Old Volcano Road, Volcano, Hawaii. C. Berj Corporation, dba My Bar, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on August 15, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on July 22, 2026; 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. d. Sodexo America, LLC, dba Sodexo America, LLC, ratification of Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises, for an event on September 11, 2026, approved by Director Stacie Waltjen on July 23, 2026; 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. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Hearing none, may I have a motion to ratify? Ventura: So moved. Yadao: Is there a second? Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Ventura moved to ratify Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 4(a) through 4(d), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Taniguchi. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 26 OF 41 Morifuji: I do, this motion covers all of these applications, yeah? Yadao: Yes. Morifuji: Okay, so I'm concerned with My Bar, on their application it states the rule 12:00 midnight not to exceed. I know this is coming up but it says until 2:00 a.m., and understand from the previous discussions with the Department, they send investigators to ensure that the licensee is complying with our rules and regs (regulations), but we're violating our own rules by allowing them to go to 2:00 a.m. And I'm wondering since we changed the number of events permitted from 4 to 12, maybe there needs to be a rule change so all licensees have the opportunity to go to 2:00 a.m., and that's my concern, won't be ratifying this application because it goes against our own rule. Okabe: Then why did we put it in like that then? Gonzalez: Commissioner Morifuji, are you done? Morifuji: Yes, I am. Gonzalez: Thank you for catching that, so you guys have to realize the time of the event is what's filled out by the applicant. So, they are asking for that, and yes it was signed but if you look under in the center, the bottom third of the page where it says "PERMIT", and then it says "The application for temporary increase has been approved and is issued subject to the following conditions:", as Commissioner Morifuji pointed out, our rule says until midnight. So, the first condition that it's approved for is shall not exceed 12 midnight. So, there could be some confusion from the applicant, yeah on when they get to go to if we don't clarify it and it's kind of situational. So, that's a good point to bring up to be consistent with our rules. I think the Director will speak on how we could traditionally apply this rule to all our licensees in the County, though. Waltjen: Yes, so typically they don't, if there are special occasions like you know, New Year's Eve, or Cinco De Mayo, or something like that, if the licensees does ask us to extend it further than midnight, we have in the past taken that into consideration and have allowed licensees who have asked for that to extend to 2:00 a.m., and even then we do find that they don't typically stay open till 2:00 a.m. I think they're just making sure that they are able to shut everything down by 2:00 a.m., people are leaving like maybe at midnight or 1:00 a.m., so that was always the understanding. But, if they chose to stay open till 2:00 a.m., we granted them that permission, and we've never had instances or none that I am aware of where there were complaints when we did allow them to stay open past midnight, because that would be something that we would have to take into consideration like if we did have neighbor noise complaints, or just issues in general that involved the liquor license and the increase. You know, we do take all of that into MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 27 OF 41 consideration the next time they do ask for something like that where we exceed past midnight. Morifuji: One of my concerns is the neighbors like you stated, Madam Director. My understanding and correct me if I'm wrong, when these licensees come in and ask for a liquor license, it's understood because of the process that they go through to survey the surrounding neighborhood. The neighborhood understands the music and whatever will be contained in the licensed premises, this is a temporary increase into a parking lot. So, the neighbors don't get that upfront, and they start hearing things going past 12:00 to till 2:00, then you'll get your complaints. But this temporary application for a temporary increase allows them up to 12:00, so hopefully we keep the complaints down because when I used to be in there, there used to be a ton of complaints from the corner licensees by Kona Costco. They used to run it and cops used to go crazy, and I was going to ask if you could at least notify HPD (Hawai'i Police Department) that these licensees are going to conduct outside concerts until 2:00 a.m. I know we had problems with crowd control, everything. Gonzalez: So those are good points, this licensee in particular is located in the industrial area, you know so that's part of the factors, things that are taken into account. If you were on East Hawaii side, one example of us granting a temporary increase is the old Nichols Pub / Hilo Burger Joint now, that one is mixed -use business and residential, right? So that factored into the approval, but the business owner was asking to stay open on New Year's Eve when everybody else is usually out late, or Merrie Monarch, or Cinco de Mayo, right? And so, it's a case -by -case basis and that's all part of what the Department has taken into account, and yeah, if there is a history of noise issues regarding this particular request, that is also taken into account, and it might not only be noise, it might be parking too, right? Taniguchi: So, my question is on Mr. Morifuji's point, so can we ratify this or can't we ratify this? Because it's stated as far as the time, right? Gonzalez: No, so like I was saying, they asked for it to go to 2:00 a.m. because they fill that portion out, but we approved it up to midnight. And then we actually had investigators there to make sure whatever was happening in the parking lot ended by midnight for this event, because it was you know brought up. Taniguchi: So, it's okay to ratify? Gonzalez: It is with that information, but I think the bigger issue was whether or not we are being contrary to our own rule that says we're not supposed to go after midnight, and if we're doing it for one, you cannot just do it for one it should be applicable to all so maybe we got to change the rule, right? Or are we taking into account the concerns of the neighborhoods and the people around so that we don't get complaints? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 28 OF 41 Waltjen: And they are only limited to 12 temporary increases per license year, so there's that control in place. Gonzalez: Yeah, so it's a good discussion. Morifuji: So, if we ratify this application, the Department will go out to this licensee and say end by 12:00? Gonzalez: We did in this case. Taniguchi: But we approved it already, yeah? Waltjen: The Department approved it. Morifuji: The event is going to come up on the 15t" so, we ratify it, the Department will tell the licensee stop? Gonzalez: Right, the time of the event in the increase. Well, I guess that's the thing, if you read it on the paper that's straight from the paper, then it would not exceed 12:00, okay? Morifuji: That's correct. Gonzalez: And then, who knows sometimes they move everything inside. For this one though because it's on the 15t", so it might be you can go to 2:00 for this event like how we do on a limited basis for you know other events like New Year's and Cinco de Mayo, and that's why we would have to follow up with that. Waltjen: I mean and I will stay you know, My Bar comes in for temporary increases and we haven't to my knowledge had received any complaints even if we were allowing him to stay open to 2:00 a.m., and this was happening with the previous Director, right? And it started really with COVID (coronavirus disease) because then they wanted to you know, take things outside and not have everything inside and whatnot, so you know we haven't had any complaints about his events when he does go into the temporary increased area in the parking lot. And that's something that I would take into consideration in future requests for temporary increases. Gonzalez: So, thank you. So, for this particular request the additional information to help you guys decide is this, this licensee is located in the industrial area, there are at least four other licensees in close proximity, right across the street is Ola Brew, they have an outdoor patio where people sit and drink. Right above My Bar is Barcode Karaoke, and then up the street is Sunflower and then there's Mad Marlin at the corner of the intersection. And actually when there's these types of events, we have not had any noise complaints or any police reports of any kind, you know break-ins recently or MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 29 OF 41 violence, so those things are covered for this venue and that area, if there's concerns about that. And then also the feedback we've gotten from Barcode and Ola is people visit their places too because it's right there, and there's not a lot of vehicular traffic going through. And so, that's the additional feedback that's not on the paper that we get from our West Hawaii investigators. Morifuji: So, has this licensee come in for a concert in the parking lot before? And that's my concern that the amount of people and it's going to be in the parking lot, I know they have events inside, this is outside. And I'm not here to argue the point, I'm just saying that if we're going to allow it, I want it fair for small licensees and large as long as it's in the rule, and maybe you can put a proviso, approved by the Director or the Commission. You may set conditions you know but we're ratifying something that's going against our rules and that's what gets me you know thinking maybe we shouldn't ratify. But, are going to go out there and tell them to end by 12:00? Gonzalez: Well for this event though really I think we need to follow-up with them to see what they were going to do if it was till 2:00 because we have approved concerts of 1,000 people across the street at Ola Brew. Licoan: They have had concerts and that venue selling alcohol with consumption in the parking lot multiple times in the past. Waltjen: I know recently the licenses have had to consult with Planning Department to get special permit or permissions whenever they have any event of a certain size if it's a music outdoor event kind of thing, so I'm pretty sure My Bar did consult with Planning because for them it was a parking issue, right? So, there are multiple agencies that are in play when something like this happens where they're having you know a concert, an outdoor event within a licensed premise, or an extension of their licensed premise. Licoan: Is there anything in the law that says it has to be like a sale event or a promoted even, or a free event? Like it's a walk-in bar style? Waltjen: I don't think so, I don't remember off the top, you mean for them to consult with Planning? Licoan: Well numbers wise, so if you talking about capacity of the venue versus your Ola Brew of 1,000 across the street that could not fit that much people, you know because they have a limited parking area space too. Waltjen: Then yeah, I think Planning has to work with them because then they'll get asked for parking leases because sometimes they you know, pay for parking for their customers for this event, and then they'll provide all of that to Planning, and then typically we have all of that information before we approve this type of events as well. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 30 OF 41 Licoan: Thank you. Okabe: So, Commissioner Morifuji, your suggesting that one caveat would be to change the law or putting the provision that can be accepted by the Commission or the Director to make exceptions or what do you want? Morifuji: I feel that we shouldn't go against our own rule okay, the rule states 12:00, we're going beyond that. The rule made the exemption for the number of events from 4 to 12, so that occurred and it's now in our rule book but this 2:00 a.m. is not. So, I'm saying that either change the rule or we can add to this form, I don't know if it's possible, gotta ask our attorney that sits there, but the Director can approve you know maybe they say, exceptions. Okabe: Corp Counsel, how would that work? I mean would we have to move it at the Commission to change the rule, or we have to have a special hearing? Gonzalez: So, I'll step in here because we just did the rule update, and I've done it twice for this Commission. Mr. Morifuji is actually a part of at least one of them and helped start another one. So, if you're going to change the rule, you have to have public hearings at minimum two on each side of the island, you have to get public comment, then you have to take that feedback to something called a State Small Business Advisory Board, they have to sign off on the rule changes because then we have to go and describe the impacts on small businesses, positives and negatives, how the rule changes may help them or hurt them, we also have to now factor into because of recent Supreme Court decisions, traditional rights of the indigenous peoples, so how does it affect the rights of the native Hawaiians? Does it impact you know, gathering rights and other things? So changing the rule can definitely be done long-term when we do the rule updates and changes, but I wanted to pose this question too because you guys have your thinking caps on, let's assume the rule says, okay the temporary increase can go till 2:00 in the morning like a regular bar. And then we get concerns of the neighborhood, it's not in an industrial area, it's mixed -use residential. Wouldn't we then be coming back more if we amend what we go till 2:00, and say no you can only go to midnight? That may create more legal challenges from that perspective, that's just food for thought to weigh and there's other factors too. Okabe: But I think Commissioner Morifuji is talking about the fairness, I think that's still a concern, right? Because you have it for the big guys, the small guys, and it's not fair so you want to say, "Hey how come you have just had it for these guys till 2:00, and these had it till 12:00? That's what you're saying, right? Morifuji: That's correct. Okabe: Yeah, that's your issue or concern. So, what do we do? MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 31 OF 41 Ventura: I think we just leave that to the Department's discretion? Taniguchi: Yeah but isn't it subjective, though? Ventura: Yes, because it's always subjective. Taniguchi: So I mean you're going to do it for a good reason, you know what I mean? Gonzalez: On a case -by -case basis based on the circumstances for that request. Nishimoto: Take into consideration all of that. Taniguchi: Because it doesn't matter if you're smaller, I mean you're not going to look at that. Gonzalez: We want to make it available to all licensees. Waltjen: And I would say My Bar is a local small business that's having these events. Taniguchi: So, if it makes sense, do it one time and then if you get plenty complaints then don't do it again, okay? But it's a good point about the other way, you have to go backwards, it's better to go forward than backwards. Gonzalez: I don't know if it's better but just seeing some of the issues that has Taniguchi: Yeah, it's easier I think to go forward. Morifuji: But we always can set conditions, right? Gonzalez: True, very true. Morifuji: We always can set conditions. Okabe: Are the inspectors going to be down there, right? Morifuji: Corp Counsel, what do you think? We have that rule in the book but if we allow them go to 2:00, what kind of defense do we have as a Commission if we do have a complaint saying that for example, why are we favoring My Bar? Soong: I would have to look into it more, but listening to Mr. Gonzalez and the Director, think the justification given and as a case -by -case basis, they look at the history of any events for that business and the nearby businesses, I think objectively that it appears to be a fair process and there's no bias, I think that would be the justification. I would have MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 32 OF 41 to look more into it as to any legal problems it will pose, but my first impression is it seems justifiable, it doesn't seem like it's being abused. Morifuji: I'm not saying it is being abused, I'm just worried about our liability as a Commission if we break our own rules, what's their defense? Soong: I think it's the reasons that Mr. Gonzalez pointed out is that this is a case -by - case analysis, investigators are there, we're taking it into account all of these factors and the history. I think that would be not necessarily a defense but justification, and it seems objectively reasonable in my limited experience. Gonzalez: That was the keyword there, is it reasonable, and it's not arbitrary or capricious, right? And that's why when you guys have these kinds of questions and you need to talk about it, that's exactly the process, it's good, yeah? And this kind of dialogue is really good to show it wasn't just a shoot from the hip kind of thing, it wasn't arbitrary, actually it was a reasonable decision. Soong: That's all I have to say. Taniguchi: So Brandon, so this one here the licensee requested to 2:00, but we approved it, our form says to 12:00, right? Gonzalez: Well, so that's how I read the form, we approved it but it's subject to these conditions. And the reason I say that is for example during COVID (coronavirus disease), you see there's a blank line, No. 3? You know, we were writing in all COVID (coronavirus disease) restrictions apply. So, you know all of that follows but there have been exceptions to the 12:00 and that's why I'm not too familiar with this specific request. And so I don't know if there was dialogue on the side for this event, they needed to go to No. 2, whether it was for breakdown of the set up or with actual patrons and customers, you know enjoying an outdoor concert, and that I admittedly have to say I don't have good knowledge but we can follow up with that. Taniguchi: So, the approval is till what? Gonzalez: I think that was Mr. Morifuji's point, he's saying it's till 2:00 because that's what they asked for, but when I look at the form it's saying it can only go till midnight. Ventura: We're ratifying the permit, right? Not the application, so they can put any time they want on the top? Gonzalez: Right. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 33 OF 41 Morifuji: So if the investigators go there at 1:00 and they're still drinking, is there a violation? Gonzalez: Yes, which we don't like, so we would have the investigators go out there beforehand if it really is an event to end at 12:00 to be like you guys gotta end at 12:00. Taniguchi: So, we're not sure if they will go to 2:00 or not, yeah? Okabe: But I think you know, the Director is going to have that discussion with them anyway, right? Taniguchi: So, maybe in this kind of case we should cross the top one off, you know when it comes in, you can put whatever you want but say okay, this is approved, initial it, it's 12:00. Licoan: Unless the applicant must have done it before? Waltjen: He has. Licoan: And that's why the event would likely shut down at 12:00 and clean up after that. Waltjen: And I would say like in the future moving forward, if he does want to stay open past midnight and continue with having his event out there, then it would be put in front of the Commission to have that discussion with him for approval or denial. Taniguchi: But I don't think we need to change the whole thing because I mean you first got to look at it objectively, you know because you don't want to come to the Commission first because a lot of these things can get approved and then you got to ratify afterwards, right? So, I mean I think the Commission has enough faith in the Director to make the decision, you know. Morifuji: Yes, we do, and it's not a question of faith but I'm just worried about our liability as a Commission. Taniguchi: Yeah, good point. Morifuji: I think with Administration Officer Gonzalez's statement, I can approve this knowing that the licensee possibly, because of his previous approval put a standard 2:00 a.m. closing time, Mr. Gonzalez is going to be sending the investigators there to monitor, and I will be then comfortable ratifying this or approving this application. And just a comment about rule changes, it's a very, very, long process and I think we don't need to change the rule but we got to be very, very, cognizant of how these licensees stay open MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 34 OF 41 late because they are approved for only their time inside, these are temporary extensions outside, so that's my point. Yadao: No further discussion, let's take it to a vote, 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. 5. Temporary Licenses Issued for Ratification (10:56 AM) a. License No. T-REST-G-148, Kona Inn Restaurant, LLC, dba Kona Inn Restaurant, Temporary Restaurant General liquor license, Category B2, located at the Kona Inn Shopping Village, 75-5744 Ali`i Drive, Suite 135, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, effective July 23, 2026. b. License No. T-REST-G-503, Kona Ocean Club, LLC, dba Voyagers, Temporary Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at the Kona Inn Shopping Village, 75-5744 Ali`i Drive, Suite 21, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, effective July 23, 2026. C. 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 July 30, 2026. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Is there a motion to ratify? Taniguchi: Move to ratify. Yadao: Is there a second? Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 35 OF 41 Commissioner Taniguchi moved to ratify Temporary Licenses Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 5(a) through 5(c), as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. 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. Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 6. Special Licenses Issued for Ratification (10:56 AM) a. License No. SP-26-005, Ku`ikahi Mediation Center, dba Ku`ikahi Mediation Center, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on July 23, 2026, held at the Edith Kanaka`ole Stadium, 350 Kalanikoa Street, Hilo, Hawaii. b. License No. SP-26-006, Kahilu Theatre Foundation, dba Kahilu Theatre Foundation, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for events on July 37 57 11, 12, 18 & 19, 2026, held at the Kahilu Theatre, 67-1186 Lindsey Road, Kamuela, Hawaii. C. License No. SP-26-007, Parker Ranch Roundup Scholarship Club, dba Parker Ranch Roundup Scholarship Club, for a Special Beer liquor license, for an event on July 4, 2026, held at the Parker Ranch Red Bar, 67-1349 Ala Ohia Road, Kamuela, Hawaii. d. License No. SP-26-008, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba The Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for events on July 2, 3 & 57 2026, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 36 OF 41 e. License No. SP-26-009, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba The Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on July 10, 2026, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. f. License No. SP-26-010, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba The Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on July 17, 2026, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. g. License No. SP-26-011, The Friends of the Palace Theater, dba The Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on July 18, 2026, held at the Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii. h. License No. SP-26-012, Rotary Club of Hilo Bay, dba Rotary Club of Hilo Bay, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on October 3, 2026, held at the Sanga Hall, 424 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii. i. License No. SP-26-013, Hilo Rotary Club Foundation, dba Hilo Rotary Club Foundation, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on July 11, 2026, held at the Hilo Yacht Club, 77 Laehala Street, Hilo, Hawaii. j. License No. SP-26-014, Puna Cat Sanctuary, dba Puna Cat Sanctuary, for a Special General liquor license, for events on October 30 & 31, 2026) held at 15-2595 Government Beach Road, Pahoa, Hawaii. k. License No. SP-26-015, Na`alehu Theatre, dba Na`alehu Theatre, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on September 3, 2026, held at the Pukalani Stables, 67-139 Pukalani Road, Kamuela, Hawaii. I. License No. SP-26-016, Fraternal Order of Eagles, dba Fraternal Order of Eagles, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for events on July 10-11, 17-18, 23-25, 30-31; August 1, 6-8, 13-15, 20-22, 27-29, 2026, held at 16-111 `Opukaha`ia Street, Kea`au, Hawaii. M. License No. SP-26-017, Welo Foundation, dba Welo Foundation, for a Special General liquor license, for an event on August 22, 2026, held at the Shipman Industrial Park, 16-510 Old Volcano Road, Kea`au, Hawaii. n. License No. SP-26-018, Kahilu Theatre Foundation, dba Kahilu Theatre Foundation, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for events on August 14, 16, & 28, 2026, held at the Kahilu Theatre, 67-1186 Lindsey Road, Kamuela, Hawaii. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 37 OF 41 o. License No. SP-26-019, Pahoa Lava Zone Museum, dba Pahoa Lava Zone Museum, for a Special General liquor license, for events on July 24, 25, 27, 30; August 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29; September 2, 47 57 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26, 2026, held at 15-2942 Pahoa Village Road, Pahoa, Hawaii. P. License No. SP-26-020, Pahoa Lava Zone Museum, dba Pahoa Lava Zone Museum, for a Special General liquor license, for events on August 4, 11, 18, 25; September 8, 15, 22, 29, 2026, held at 15-2942 Pahoa Village Road, Pahoa, Hawaii. q. License No. SP-26-021, Kahilu Theatre Foundation, dba Kahilu Theatre Foundation, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, for an event on July 31, 2026, held at the Kahilu Theatre, 67-1186 Lindsey Road, Kamuela, Hawaii. r. License No. SP-26-022, Aloha Performing Arts Company, dba Aloha Theatre, for a Special General liquor license, for events on August 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-30, 2026, held at the Aloha Theatre, 79-7384 Mamalahoa Highway, Kealakekua, Hawaii. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Seeing none, can I have a motion to ratify? Okabe: Motion to ratify. Yadao: Is there a second? Taniguchi: Second. Commissioner Okabe moved to ratify Special Licenses Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 6(a) through 6(r), License Nos. SP-26-005 through SP-26-022, as stated in the agenda; 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." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 38 OF 41 Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 7. Transient Vessel Licenses Issued for Ratification (10:57 AM) a. License No. TV-26-007, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd., dba Crown Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on September 18; and November 27, 2026; and in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on September 19, 2026. b. License No. TV-26-008, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd., dba Ruby Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on September 24, 2026; January 16; February 20; and March 8, 2027; and in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on October 28; November 13; December 5, 31, 2026; February 1; March 5, 21; and April 9, 2027. C. License No. TV-26-009, Holland America Line Limited, dba Ms Koningsdam, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on October 9, 2026; January 18; February 5; and April 18, 2027; and in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on October 13, 2026; January 19; February 6, 19; and April 16, 2027. d. License No. TV-26-010, Holland America Line Limited, dba Ms Zaandam, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on October 25; and November 26, 2026; and in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on November 25, 2026. e. License No. TV-26-011, Holland America Line Limited, dba Ms Noordam, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on September 27; and October 17, 2026; and in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on October 20, 2026; and April 18, 2027. f. License No. TV-26-012, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd., dba Coral Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on January 27, 2027. g. License No. TV-26-013, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd., dba Royal Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on April 15, 2027. MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 39 OF 41 h. License No. TV-26-014, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd., dba Grand Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on October 11, 2026; and in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on October 12, 2026. i. License No. TV-26-015, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd., dba Sapphire Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on November 29, 2026; and in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on November 30, 2026. j. License No. TV-26-016, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd., dba Emerald Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on October 8, 22; November 14; December 4, 2026; January 15, 31; February 17; March 4; and April 10, 2027; and in port at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on November 15; December 7, 21, 2026; January 17; February 1, 18; and March 7, 2027. k. License No. TV-26-017, Carnival License Holdings Limited, dba Carnival Spirit, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on October 2, 2026; and April 23, 2027. I. License No. TV-26-018, Carnival License Holdings Limited, dba Carnival Radiance, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on October 19; November 16; December 6, 2026; January 25, February 22, March 22, and April 19, 2027. Yadao: Is there any public testimony at this time? There was no public testimony. Yadao: Hearing none, can I have a motion to ratify? Taniguchi: Move to ratify. Nishimoto: Nishimoto, second. Commissioner Taniguchi moved to ratify Transient Vessel Licenses Issued for Ratification, Item Nos. 7(a) through 7(1), License Nos. TV-26-007 through TV-26-018, as stated in the agenda; Seconded by Commissioner Nishimoto. Yadao: Any discussion of the motion? There was no discussion by Commissioners. Yadao: Hearing none, all those in favor say "Aye." MINUTES - LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 40 OF 41 The Commissioners voted "Aye." Yadao: Opposed "Nay." There was no opposition by Commissioners. Yadao: Motion has carried. The motion was carried unanimously. 8. Memorandum dated July 16, 2026, from Stacie Waltjen, Director, reporting about the meetings, sessions, business, and benefits of (10:57 AM) attending the National Conference of State Liquor Administrators (NCSLA) Annual Conference, June 14 - 179 2026, in New Orleans, Louisiana Yadao: Commission, do you have and questions or discussion? Morifuji: I have a comment, I find these reports very informative and very helpful in my duty as a Commissioner. IX. Announcements (10:58 AM) Meetings of the Liquor Commission September 3, 2026, 10:00 A.M., Hilo Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Unit 230, Hilo, Hawaii. October 1, 2026, 10:00 A.M., Kona Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Suite 107, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. X. Adjournment Meeting adjourned at 10:58 A.M. Stacie T. Waltjen Director The August 6, 2026 meeting minutes were approved as circulated, via email on August 28, 2026, by the Liquor Commission of the County of Hawaii on September 3, 2026. MINUTES -LIQUOR COMMISSION MEETING - THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 - KONA PAGE 41 OF 41