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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-05-24 Salary Commission MinutesPage 1 TRANSCRIPT OF PROCEEDINGS SALARY COMMISSION MEETING Held at the Hawaii County Building, 25 Aupuni Street, Hilo, Hawaii, 96720, commencing at 10:02 a.m., on May 24, 2018. REPORTED BY: TERI HOSKINS, RMR, CSR #452 ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 BOARD MEMBERS: FLORENCE K. IKEDA, ACTING CHAIR THOMAS E. FRATINARDO GEORGE W. CAMPBELL JAMES W. HIGGINS HAROLD D. DOW ABSENT AND EXCUSED: HUGH Y. ONO, P.E., CHAIR NELSON H. HARANO MILTON PAVAO, P.E. ALSO PRESENT: AMY SELF, DEPUTY CORPORATION COUNSEL WILLIAM B. BRILHANTE, JR., EX -OFFICIO MEMBER JENNIFER SAKAMOTO GLYNIS YAMADA ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 2 Page 3 1 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Okay. Can we call the 2 meeting to order, please. We'll take roll call ji It 7 8 9 10 11 12 starting from George. MR. CAMPBELL: Yeah, George Campbell present. MR. HIGGINS: Jim Higgins present. ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Florence Ikeda present. MR. DOW: Harold Dow present. MR. FRATINARDO: Thomas Fratinardo, District 1, present. ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Nelson isn't here. Did he call in? - -TRT TlT He didn't call in. Do you want 13 me to try calling him? 14 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: He might be stuck on the road? 15 MS. YAMADA: Yeah, maybe. I'll give him a 16 call. 17 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: And I believe we don't 18 have any statements from the public on our agenda. 19 The minutes was sent to you people for the 20 last two meetings. Are there any corrections or 21 additions to the minutes? 22 No? 23 May I have a motion to approve? 24 MR. FRATINARDO: Motion. 25 MR. CAMPBELL: Second. ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 4 1 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: The minutes have been -- been -- 2 MS. SELF: You've got to vote. 3 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Yeah, and vote. Okay. So 4 we'll take a vote to approve the minutes. All in favor? 5 (All members responded affirmatively.) 6 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Any negative? No. 7 Okay. So the minutes have been approved. 8 Communications? We don't have any. 9 "New Business (for discussion and appropriate 10 action): None." 11 So we'll go to "6) Unfinished Business," 12 number "A) Review of existing compensation plan." 13 I'd like to defer this to Bill Brilhante. 14 MR. BRILHANTE: Hi. Good morning, Chair, and 15 Salary Commission members. William Brilhante, Human 16 Resource Director. 17 You know, I know the item on the agenda is 18 review of existing compensation plans, and what I am 19 going to do is I am going to request that this item be 20 continued; and it's, primarily, due to the ongoing 21 emergency situation with all the lava activity. And, I 22 think at this time, there has been representations made 23 by administration that the County is approaching a 24 shortfall in revenues. That was reported to the County 25 Council last week. And until the situation is ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 5 1 stabilized and we get a clear picture as to what the 2 impacts and what the resultant effects of this 3 emergency will be, I think it will be premature and any 4 discussion or any consideration or any direction we 5 give will be premature. 6 So, with that in mind, I'm going to request 7 that we continue this or postpone this matter until 8 such time as -- leave it at the call of the Chair to 9 bring up on a future agenda. 10 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Do I have to take 11 vote to defer? 12 Can I have a motion to defer? 13 MR. FRATINARDO: Motion. 14 MR. HIGGINS: Second. 15 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: It has been moved and 16 seconded that we defer this discussion to a later date. 17 all in favor? 18 (All members responded affirmatively.) 19 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Motion carried. 20 Sorry, any opposed? None. 21 Okay. "B) Rules of the Salary Commission" 22 (SEE ATT. A). Can I defer this to Amy? 23 MS. SELF: Yeah. This would be the same 24 thing, right? 25 MR. BRILHANTE: It would be B. ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 6 1 ACTING CHR.IKEDA: B. 2 MS. SELF: Oh. 3 MR. BRILHANTE: Rules. Yeah, B. 4 MS. SELF: Okay. So I believe everybody has a 5 copy of the rules that I made some changes to (SEE ATT. A) . 6 MS. YAMADA: The green folders. 7 MS. SELF: I wanted to do them in redline, 8 but we couldn't get it to print out like that. So the 9 first change is on page 200-2 -- I don't know. Does 10 anybody at HR understand or know how these rules 11 were -- how they came up with these things? Because 12 the numbers are really odd. The page numbers are 13 200 -whatever. 14 MR. BRILHANTE: Although every day I look in 15 the mirror I consider myself to be getting older and 16 older, I don't think I'm quite this old yet to have 17 played a role in this; but what we can do is look into 18 it, and I'm sure there is somebody somewhere who knows 19 why we started with these numbers and the uniqueness 20 associated with this. So, let me look into it, and 21 we'll get back to you, Amy. 22 MS. SELF: Okay. Because I know that HR has 23 its rules, and I was wondering if this is like -- 24 because this is Chapter 200, and I don't know what 25 that's -- okay. So, that's one thing I was questioning. ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 7 1 One of the changes I made is on page 200-2 at 2 the bottom. And, actually, your page number may have 3 been cut off to the next blank page, yeah, so it's the 4 bottom of the page. It doesn't have a page number. 5 MR. HIGGINS: No. 6 MS. SELF: It's 200-2, so then look at the 7 previous page. Okay? So it's at the very bottom of 8 section 200-5, "The Commission." And it's under 9 Section (b)(4), the very bottom of the page, under 10 "Regular meetings." 11 MR. HIGGINS: Thank you. 12 MS. SELF: So, what the charter requires is 13 that this Commission meet at least annually. So, it's 14 up to you if you want to meet more often than that, but 15 you have to at least meet annually. 16 So, what was in there before was "Regular or 17 general meetings will be held on the 2nd and 4th 18 Wednesdays of each month, unless otherwise specified." 19 I think it would be best to just delete the sentence -- 20 or the part that is struck through -- and just leave it 21 at "The Commission shall meet at least annually"; and 22 then that way you have flexibility, but it doesn't lead 23 the public to believe that you are actually meeting on 24 those days every time. 25 These are just suggestions, so you guys will ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 8 1 be the ultimate decision -makers. And I don't think 2 there should be any decisions today. I just wanted to, 3 kind of, go through these things first because there's 4 going to be more changes. 5 So, if you look at the next page, subsection 6 (5), at the top of that page under "Special meetings," 7 this was in there because this language was identical 8 to what used to be in the charter under Section 13-4, 9 which applies to all boards and commissions that were 10 created by the charter, which this Commission was 11 created by the charter. So, they actually -- the last 12 charter commission that made changes or proposed 13 amendments to the charter took this out, and it passed 14 by the voters -- so the part that's struck out, upon 15 publication of notice such special meetings that you 16 have to publish in the newspaper, that's no longer in 17 the charter. So what I'm suggesting is just take that 18 portion out and just leave it as "Special meetings of 19 the Commission for the transaction of its business may 20 be held at any time and place as scheduled by the 21 Commission." 22 So you're no longer required to put it in the 23 newspaper. However, as you all know, we have a new 24 proposed amendment for the charter so that could 25 change, too. But I think that was only for -- ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 9 1 MR. BRILHANTE: Salaries -- 2 MS. SELF: Yeah, for the salaries. 3 MR. BRILHANTE: -- that were over 10 percent. 4 MS. SELF: 10 percent, yeah. 5 MR. HIGGINS: Yeah. 6 MS. SELF: And I don't know if that will be 7 required to be under special meeting or not, but since 8 it will already be in the charter, if it does pass, 9 then at that time we can make a decision whether or not 10 it should be put into the rules or not -- if we should 11 amend the rules. 12 There's a lot of formatting stuff, though, 13 that's just talking about the page numbers, the 14 sections. All of this, I would think, that since -- 15 the Salary Commission, it does fall under the 16 Department of Human Resources, but I would think that 17 you would have your own numbering. You know, I think 18 this all could be cleaned up for the formatting. 19 Let's see. What else? I think that's as far 20 as I've gotten so far. I was on a roll until so much 21 stuff was happening, but I'm going to continue to go 22 through this and see if there's anything else that 23 needs to be changed. What I would suggest for you guys 24 is for you to also review these and see if you can come 25 up with any -- yeah. ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 10 1 MR. FRATINARDO: I had spoken with Bill, 2 about maybe two weeks ago when we bumped into each 3 other at the EOC, about the overtime. And I was 4 wondering in these times of emergency where you have 5 our appointees and our elected officials that are 6 working double shifts -- they're sleeping next to their 7 cell phone, they're always on call -- is there a, sort 8 of, method that we can create to compensate them for 9 that? Because I would think that the salary that they 10 are awarded is not under the auspices of a emergency 11 situation. That's your regular day-to-day operations. 12 So how do we - and, like, they aren't being given 13 overtime. So, can we take into consideration that 14 they're working 16 -hour-long days or more when looking 15 at their salaries? You know, is there some other sort 16 of stipend that we can award them during a time of 17 emergency when they're expected to be there 24/7 at the 18 EOC? 19 MS. SELF: That runs into FLSA because the 20 way they are categorized -- you know how they have 21 different categories under FLSA? That falls under -- 22 what is it called -- supervisory, so -- 23 MR. BRILHANTE: Excluded management. 24 MS. SELF: Yeah. 25 So that they're not -- they're salaried ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 11 1 instead of hourly. 2 MR. FRATINARDO: Uh-huh. Okay. 3 MS. SELF: So that's why I don't think you 4 could -- yeah, I don't think you could give overtime to 5 a salaried person, which would be all of the 6 appointees. 7 MR. FRATINARDO: Yeah, I just wanted to ask 8 that because I didn't know. So it's just something that 9 I would be willing to consider, if we could do it. 10 MS. SELF: Do you have any ideas? 11 MR. BRILHANTE: You know what? I think 12 that's a good question, you know, for this Commission 13 to kind of, you know, investigate or a good topic area. 14 I think it's kind of more analogous to the previous, 15 you know, subject, you know, that we just continued and 16 deferred. 17 MR. FRATINARDO: Deferred, okay. 18 MR. BRILHANTE: And I think it would be best 19 to have that discussion, if at all, during the time 20 that -- 21 MR. FRATINARDO: Sure. 22 MR. BRILHANTE: -- that item is brought back 23 up. 24 MR. FRATINARDO: Sure, sure, sure. Okay. 25 MS. SELF: Yeah. Yeah, because what you are ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 12 1 going to be looking at once you get those numbers is 2 whether or not there is now another inversion because 3 of SHOPO and all the unions that we didn't have that 4 information previously when you set the salaries. So 5 that could change again, now that there is going to be a 6 lot of overtime for hourly employees. So, yeah, I 7 agree with Bill that that might be a better time to 8 discuss it. 9 MR. FRATINARDO: Okay. Got you. Thank you. 10 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: So then we will continue on to -- 11 MR. CAMPBELL: Amy, I did look at these, and 12 if you look in section 200-7 -- I think that's "Public 13 records," and that's all been revised in recent times. 14 I mean, the requirements now for how the County posts 15 things, and the minutes have to be done, you know, 16 within a month, and they have to be -- now these are 17 put on the County website. So that whole section really 18 needs to be changed to meet those current requirements. 19 None of it is really relevant at this point. 20 MS. SELF: Yeah. That -- and also I'll be 21 looking at the changes that were made to the Sunshine 22 Law. 23 MR. CAMPBELL: Right. 24 MS. SELF: And I'll make those changes. 25 MR. CAMPBELL: Right. ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 13 1 MS. SELF: Thank you. 2 Anybody else? 3 But if you could just -- you know, we'll have 4 this on the agenda again, anyway, so if anything comes 5 to mind that -- like any of your procedures or the way 6 you want to conduct like -- maybe if you come up with a 7 system that you want to follow for giving salary 8 increases, like you relied on certain information this 9 last time -- you had a method for coming up with that. 10 So anything like that that you think you would want to 11 include as a rule as to how you come up with the 12 salaries. That's just something I was thinking about 13 as well, if you want to do that. I don't think it's 14 necessary as long as you're following the charter, 15 but... 16 MR. HIGGINS: Yeah, this is not related to 17 what you just said, and this is minor, and I have no 18 intellectual abilities to describe why I'm feeling 19 this, but I think that your first point on regular 20 meetings, I don't know why -- it's just a gut 21 feeling -- that the Commission should meet at least 22 annually, I thought it should be more than that stated 23 in here, passing this on to the future. Who knows 24 what's going to happen? But when I first read that 25 initially a few months ago, I went, oh, doesn't sound ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 14 1 right to me. But, again, I have no rhyme or reason 2 besides that. 3 MS. SELF: And that's up to the Commission. 4 That's up to you guys. If you want to state in your 5 rules definite days or how often your meetings are, 6 that's entirely your decision. I just didn't think it 7 looked -- unless you're really going to meet every 8 2nd and 4th Wednesday. 9 MR. CAMPBELL: No. 10 MR. HIGGINS: No. 11 MS. SELF: I don't see -- 12 MR. HIGGINS: Just the times per year, I 13 thought. I don't think we need to put 2nd or 4th 14 Wednesday or 3rd Thursday. Who knows what the next 15 group is going to want on that? But -- 16 MS. SELF: Yeah. So this is just what is 17 required by the charter; but if you guys want to -- 18 like I said, you have the authority to -- these are 19 your rules. So if you would like to change that to 20 something else, it's up to you, as long as, like I 21 said, it's not less than annually, but that's what the 22 charter requires. 23 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Or, Jim, I was thinking 24 that maybe -- you know, you said annually was not enough 25 for you -- maybe we could put something in like "or as ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 15 1 is deemed necessary"? 2 MR. HIGGINS: Yeah, or semi-annually, or at 3 least quarterly. I think that pretty much covers it. 4 We're obviously meeting way more than that but, again, 5 I'm just thinking about what's done in the future. It 6 just reads better to me. It sounds like we're more 7 busy and we're more cognizant of our duties to have it 8 more than once a year. That's all. 9 MS. SELF: I agree. 10 MR. HIGGINS: It's a minor thing, totally 11 minor. 12 MS. SELF: Okay. So I'll put this in 13 just because -- you're not going to vote on this today, 14 so I'll put that in as a suggestion so that when it 15 comes up later on for discussion, you guys can make a 16 decision, and then you'll vote to -- those as your 17 final rules. Then we have to go through a public 18 hearing to adopt the rules. 19 MR. BRILHANTE: And I think Commissioner 20 Higgins is making a good point. You know, oftentimes 21 perception trumps reality, and if you have "meet 22 annually," then the public perception might be, "Wow, 23 these guys meet once a year? Only once a year?" So I 24 think, with that in mind, that's a good suggestion. 25 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Are there any other suggestions? ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 16 1 MR. DOW: I have a question of Bill. These 2 changes in pay are very dynamic. I look at what has 3 been awarded in union contracts which will then be 4 reflected in EM salaries, and I would like to know what 5 events during the year result in changes in pay. 6 You've got step movements. You've got across-the-board 7 increases. You've got bonuses. You've got contractual 8 pay related to overtime. I'd like an enumeration of 9 the factors that influence pay changes, how often 10 they're occurring. Are they on anniversary dates of 11 employment? Are they at the first of the year? Are 12 they biannual? How does that work? 13 MR. BRILHANTE: You know, that's good 14 information to have, and that's definitely something 15 that our department will be able to provide the 16 Commission members with going forward. And I think 17 once we re-agendize that item regarding salaries and 18 adjustments, I think that's great information to have, 19 and we'll make sure that we are able to provide that 20 information to you. But at this time, I'll take it as 21 a request. 22 MR. DOW: That's what I want. 23 MS. SELF: And we'll go forward from that. 24 Perfect. 25 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Are there any other? ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 17 1 MR. DOW: I have another question. 2 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Okay. 3 MR. DOW: I was going back through the 4 testimony from the chair of the board overseeing the 5 Fire Department. Name was Becker, I believe -- Robert 6 Becker -- and he was presenting information. I was 7 wondering where he got the information. I think he had 8 a statement that, in 2016, there were 20 -some -odd 9 captains who were paid more than the chief of the 10 department. So, where did he get that? Is that 11 information available through HR? 12 MR. BRILHANTE: Quite honestly, I'm not sure 13 where that information came from. I'm not sure if any 14 of our personnel provided the fire commission chair 15 that information but, historically, that information 16 does come from our office. And I'm not sure; maybe for 17 that particular purpose the fire commission chair may 18 have requested that information directly from the fire 19 department because I'm not aware of any requests that 20 came to our office. And I see my classification and 21 pay division head, she's shaking her head as well that 22 we didn't provide that information. It did not come 23 from our office, so I can't really answer your question 24 at this time as to where that information came from. 25 MR. DOW: Can that information be provided to ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 18 1 this Commission? 2 MR. BRILHANTE: Yes. That's something we can 3 provide as an informational request from the 4 Commission. 5 MR. DOW: I would like to know, for instance, 6 what was the top gross pay last year? I guess you 7 recently sent out W-2 forms or is that -- regarding 8 pay -- gross pay. I would like to know in which 9 departments the highest -grossed pay did not go to the 10 department head and whether the action we've taken on 11 salary increases has rectified that. 12 MR. BRILHANTE: You know, I'm just going to 13 give a cautionary note here. I think we're kind of 14 getting into the weeds for an item that is not really 15 on our agenda right now. That's definitely a 16 discussion we can have down the road. 17 Just one cautionary note going forward is I 18 just want to say when we look at gross pay, the 19 assumption from our department's perspective is that an 20 employee's gross pay would be inclusive of overtime 21 payments; and as it relates to this Salary Commission, 22 I think there's a specific provision that as we set the 23 salaries of the department heads and deputies, that 24 we're not supposed to consider overtime. That's been 25 the past practice. ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 19 1 So I just want to, again, a cautionary note 2 and say we will be able to provide you the requested 3 information but, just going forward, I think I would be 4 somewhat hesitant to say that we should have more 5 discussion in regards to this. Again, once the item 6 regarding review of existing compensation plans are 7 re-agendized, I think this is a great discussion to 8 have but I think that would be the more appropriate 9 time to have it. So I'm not trying to silence you. 10 I'm just trying to say I think we're maybe running 11 afoul of Sunshine Law right now or getting very close 12 to it. So I just want to, again, cautionary note. 13 MR. DOW: Well, Mr. Becker indicated that 14 there's multiple EMs in his department that are 15 guaranteed by contract annual pay up to $20,000 per 16 year. Is that not considered base pay or is that an 17 artful way of getting up and out -- above the salary -- 18 salary range for that position? 19 MR. BRILHANTE: I'm sorry. I wasn't 20 following. Could you restate your question again? I'm 21 sorry. 22 MS. SELF: You know, we've already passed -- 23 this seems to be under item 6)A) that we deferred to 24 another date, so -- 25 MR. FRATINARDO: Yeah. ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 20 1 MS. SELF: -- if you could have these kinds 2 of questions ready for the next meeting. I don't know 3 when they are going to take this up. I guess when they 4 get all the information. This would be pertinent to 5 the item under 6)A). And, in the meantime, you could 6 submit your question to the department -- just don't 7 e-mail all the Commissioners -- to get that information 8 or just at least give him a list of the things that you 9 are asking and the kinds of information you want. 10 MR. DOW: Ask it directly of HR? 11 MS. SELF: Yes. And then, that way, when 12 this item is placed back on the agenda again, that 13 information could also be included. Glynis could check 14 with the chair or the vice -chair about having that put 15 back on the agenda. 16 MR. DOW: Okay. 17 MS. SELF: Because that would be the 18 appropriate time to discuss it. 19 MR. DOW: Well, we have been told in the past 20 not to do anything directly with HR, that everything 21 has to go through the Chair. 22 MS. SELF: Well, to get information for 23 purposes for you to discuss. I mean, she will have to 24 clear whatever goes on the agenda with the Chair, but 25 certainly there is nothing wrong with anybody on the ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 21 1 Commission asking for information from the HR 2 Department, so that you can formalize your questions 3 for when the discussion comes up. 4 MR. DOW: Thank you. 5 MS. SELF: But one thing that Bill was 6 mentioning is under Section 13-28 of the Charter -- 7 this is what gives the authority to the Commission, 8 right? So if you look at subsection (d), the 9 responsibility this Commission has is to review "and 10 compensate all county elected officials and appointed 11 directors and deputy directors so that their total 12 salaries and benefits have a reasonable relationship to 13 compensation in the public and private sectors. The 14 salary commission shall consult with those boards and 15 commissions which have appointing authority for 16 department heads." Those would be like Police 17 Commission, Fire Commission. 18 MR. FRATINARDO: So, question, Amy. When we 19 first started out, my question was -- when I see the 20 rules, I looked through here, and I was like, well, 21 what's the formula for awarding the pay to these 22 particular positions? So you just stated that rule. 23 So we can add the formula of how we're going to come up 24 with compensating these people? 25 MS. SELF: Yes. ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 22 1 MR. FRATINARDO: Because it doesn't contain 2 that right now. 3 MS. SELF: Exactly. 4 MR. FRATINARDO: That's what I always want to 5 know. Why isn't there a standard operating desktop 6 procedure where the salary commission just go to it, 7 look at it, "This is how we give the pay raises every 8 time"? 9 MS. SELF: Yes. And that is something -- the 10 whole purpose of department or commission rules is to 11 implement what is either in the charter or the code. 12 MR. FRATINARDO: Sure. 13 MS. SELF: Same thing with the State. You 14 have the Hawaii Revised Statutes and then you have the 15 Hawaii Administrative Rules. The purpose of the rules 16 is to carry out the law, right? So that's the same 17 concept here. I just read the section that applies to 18 you guys from the charter. 19 MR. FRATINARDO: Right. 20 MS. SELF: And so, because there's no 21 specifics as to how you're going to do that, you can 22 decide how you want to implement that through rules. 23 MR. FRATINARDO: Right. Thank you. Yeah. 24 And this is like -- when we first started 25 out, you know, when I hear "rules," I was assuming at ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 23 1 first that it would be in here, but it wasn't. But I 2 hope when Hugh comes back, we can actually come up with 3 the actual formula along with what you just read out of 4 the charter about consistent with the industry 5 standards of how people are being paid. Because 6 there's a devil in the details. That's I guess what 7 I'm saying. That's all. 8 MR. BRILHANTE: May I make just a point of 9 clarification as it relates to Commissioner Dow's 10 request? I remember when the Commission was first 11 starting to meet again, there was a request and 12 instruction given by Chair Ono wherein he requested 13 that each of the commission members who are desirous of 14 having specific requests met by the HR Department, he 15 instructed them to send -- each of you -- to send the 16 request directly to him and then he would forward it to 17 the department as deemed necessary. So I just kind of 18 want you to remember that. Our secretary, Ms. Yamada, 19 brought that to my attention. 20 MS. SELF: Sorry, I guess I misspoke. But 21 even the public can get information from HR. They can 22 make a foyer request. I guess this is just to make it 23 more organized for the department? 24 MR. BRILHANTE: I think that the impetus 25 behind it was that the department was being inundated ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 24 1 by requests from each of the commission members, so 2 just to provide a uniform way in which all the requests 3 were documented, and they were all on the table, and 4 everybody understood what information was being 5 generated by the department. So I think it was more 6 for clarification and housekeeping purposes. 7 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: So, is there any further 8 discussion? Okay. If not, we can go on to C), 9 "Opportunity for Commissioners to request items for 10 placement on the next agenda." 11 Are there any requests? 12 MR. HIGGINS: Yeah. Along with what Bill 13 talked about earlier about deferring everything based 14 on the unpredictability of what's going on, the lava 15 flows, et cetera, and how that will affect the budget, 16 at least the information I'm reading in the newspaper 17 has to do with a potential shortfall. And maybe we 18 should have put on the agenda, just in case it's 19 necessary to be able to discuss it, something -- a 20 representative from the budget office, the Finance 21 Department -- at least put that on the agenda so in case 22 the discussion leads to the possibility of suspension 23 of pay raises, that we're able to discuss it. 24 Now, I'm not suggesting that. I'm just 25 saying that if you're going to balance the budget, ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 25 1 there's only a couple of ways to do that and that's to 2 raise revenues or cut expenses. And the expense side 3 of it is what we deal with in a way because we just 4 approved a million dollars' worth of pay increases. So 5 in case that came up, that they needed to discuss it 6 with us, I think it should be on the agenda. 7 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: So you would like to have 8 the Finance Director, Deanna Sako, come to our next 9 meeting? 10 MR. HIGGINS: Yeah -- or a representative. 11 Yeah, that would be -- something like that. 12 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Are there any other suggestions? 13 MR. FRATINARDO: I just want to ask, that one 14 question I asked about, is that set in stone when we 15 have an emergency like we're going through right now, 16 which is kind of out of the ordinary, to -- is it 17 actually -- with state law, is that actually set in 18 stone where a salary cannot be amended or adjusted 19 during a time of emergency? 20 MR. BRILHANTE: No. There's no -- not that I 21 am aware of. 22 MR. FRATINARDO: Can we please -- I would 23 like that on the agenda. If this is going to be an 24 ongoing -- it's going to be an ongoing emergency. And 25 I honestly think that -- I think a person should be ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 26 1 paid if they're being -- if they're working double 2 shifts 16 or 20 hours a day, if the mayor is down there 3 having to -- I mean, if his presence is actually 4 needed, that something needs to be -- whether he agrees 5 with it or not, I think we should at least look at the 6 fact that, hey, these people are putting this set 7 amount of hours. Even though, blanket, it's their job 8 to, I guess, be there, I think we should look at how 9 we're going to compensate these people as a salary 10 commission or if that's even in our authority to do 11 that. 12 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: So you would like to 13 have it put on the next agenda about compensation? 14 MR. FRATINARDO: During times of emergency, 15 extended times of emergency. 16 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Okay. 17 MS. SELF: That's fine, but I would just 18 caution you to reread the section of the charter that I 19 had read previously about -- 20 MR. CAMPBELL: Base salary. 21 MS. SELF: Yeah, what you are supposed to be 22 determining as far as salaries go. 23 MR. FRATINARDO: Well, I asked that: Is it 24 set in stone, and we won't put it down -- 25 MS. SELF: Well -- ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 27 1 MR. FRATINARDO: Well, what do the other 2 counties do? I mean, is there a compensation system 3 for like Honolulu and Maui? So, I mean, can one of us 4 from -- can I call like -- can one of us call Maui or 5 Honolulu and find out, in the times of extended 6 emergency -- do you compensate your appointed officials 7 or elected officials in times of emergency? 8 MS. SELF: You can do that, yeah. You can 9 check whatever resources, as long as you don't talk to 10 each other. 11 MR. FRATINARDO: Sure. So, if that is the 12 case, then it would apply to our charter. 13 MS. SELF: Well, yeah. We have to make sure 14 that we stay in line with what the charter says. 15 MR. CAMPBELL: Which we could amend, right? 16 MS. SELF: You could get Sue Lee Loy to 17 propose an amendment. 18 MR. FRATINARDO: And all my intent is making 19 sure that these people are being paid for the amount of 20 work that they're doing. That's all. If that's not 21 enough or if it's less, tell me, and I won't discuss 22 it. 23 MS. SELF: I defer to HR. 24 MR. BRILHANTE: You know, from what I'm 25 hearing, I don't think now is the appropriate time to ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 28 1 have this discussion. 2 MR. FRATINARDO: Sure. 3 MR. BRILHANTE: I think if we agendize the 4 item -- 5 MR. FRATINARDO: Right. Yes. 6 MR. BRILHANTE: -- and we open it up for 7 discussion, then we will have an opportunity to 8 specifically address and discuss -- 9 MR. FRATINARDO: Yes. 10 MR. BRILHANTE: -- the requirements 11 associated with both the charter language and what 12 you're desirous of doing. 13 MR. FRATINARDO: Thank you. 14 MR. BRILHANTE: I think that would be the 15 most appropriate time to have that discussion. 16 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Is that it, or do we 17 have any further? 18 MS. SELF: I have one thing I'd like to 19 interject. For the Rules of the Salary Commission, I 20 would prefer not to have that on the next agenda, 21 because I won't be here for the June meeting, and I 22 would rather have that when I'm here. So I'll talk to 23 Hugh -- 24 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: Defer to July? 25 MS. SELF: Right. ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 29 1 I'll talk to him about putting it back on the 2 agenda at some other time. 3 MS. IKEDA: If not, we can go on to No. 7, 4 schedule next meeting date. The next scheduled meeting 5 date is June the 28th. 6 Glynis, do you want to tell us about that 7 date? 8 MS. YAMADA: On June 28th, as you know, the 9 budget is before Council, so if the mayor vetoes the 10 budget, the Council will have a special meeting which 11 will be somewhere on or about the last week of June. 12 So the location is up in the air until the Council 13 receives the budget from the mayor's office. So, 14 hopefully, the meeting will be here. If not, it may be 15 held at the Office of Aging. 16 MR. CAMPBELL: Could we move the meeting to 17 the 20th, just bypass that? 18 MS. SELF: You mean the 21st? 19 MR. CAMPBELL: 20th or 21st -- 21st of June. 20 MR. BRILHANTE: That would be the one, two -- 21 MR. CAMPBELL: Third week. 22 MR. BRILHANTE: That would be the third 23 Thursday in June. And if you ask me to say that like 24 ten times really fast... 25 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: I'm not going to be here. ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 30 1 MR. HIGGINS: And wouldn't that make my 2 request to have the Finance Director in attendance -- 3 that would make that appropriate -- 4 MR. CAMPBELL: Yeah. 5 MR. HIGGINS: -- if we had it before. If the 6 budget has already been completed on our date of the 7 meeting, then it's no sense us meeting with the Finance 8 Director. 9 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: May I interject? The 10 21st, this conference room is taken? 11 MS. YAMADA: It's available the 21st. 12 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: 21st. Okay. 13 So what is the consensus of the group? To 14 meet the 21st? 15 MR. CAMPBELL: Sure. 16 MR. HIGGINS: Good for me. 17 MR. BRILHANTE: Does it work? 18 MS. YAMADA: Yeah. 19 ACING CHR. IKEDA: So, it's agreed that we 20 will meet on June 21st, 2018. 21 Just to let you know, I won't be here. 22 MR. HIGGINS: Everybody is running away now 23 that the heat is getting up. 24 ACTING CHR. IKEDA: The location will be here 25 in this conference room and it will be at 10:00 a.m. ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 31 1 Are there any other discussions? 2 MR. FRATINARDO: Question. 3 MS. IKEDA: Question. 4 MR. FRATINARDO: I'll make it really brief. 5 I know according to Sunshine Law, we have to 6 stick to the agenda. Okay? But what if we have an 7 emergency like it says in 202-5? "Emergency 8 rule making. So is that something that might not be 9 able to be put on the agenda? Are we still violating 10 Sunshine Law rule if we do an emergency rule change? 11 MS. SELF: I can't think of anything that 12 this Commission does that would be considered an 13 emergency by state law. When they say "emergency," 14 they mean real emergency -- 15 MR. FRATINARDO: Sure. 16 MS. SELF: -- like peril, life, or whatever. 17 MR. FRATINARDO: So there's just things in 18 here that -- thank you. 19 MS. SELF: Yeah. That is definitely for 20 something - like, right now, they may be making 21 emergency rules for lava. I don't know. 22 MR. BRILHANTE: I think the governor's 23 proclamation -- 24 MR. FRATINARDO: Sure. 25 MR. BRILHANTE: -- takes care of most of the ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 1 2 ji 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Page 32 rules. MS. SELF: Yeah. ACTING CHR. IKEDA: If there is nothing else, then may we have a motion to adjourn the meeting? MR. FRATINARDO: Motion. MR. CAMPBELL: Second. ACTING CHR. IKEDA: It is moved and seconded that we adjourn this meeting. The meeting is adjourned. (The meeting adjourned at 10:43 a.m.) ISLAND COURT REPORTING & TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Page 33 1 STATE OF HAWAII 2 ss. 3 COUNTY OF HAWAII 4 5 I, TERI HOSKINS, a certified court 6 reporter in the State of Hawaii, do hereby certify 7 that the foregoing pages are a true and correct 8 transcription of the proceedings in the above matter. 9 10 Dated th' 6th day of June, 2018. 11 12 13 Teri H .ins, CSR No. 452 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 ISLAND COURT REPORTING &TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES (808) 933-9800 Ms. Teri Hoskins, Certified Court Reporter, transcribed the aforementioned proceedings of the Salary Commission at its meeting held on May 24, 2018. Glynis Yamada, Secretary, Salary Commission, had incorporated some minor formatting/housekeeping revisions throughout the transcript. Respectfully Submitted, Glyn Yama.a, Secretary APPROVED: C—Th Hugh Y. Ono, P. E., Chair Salary Commission SALARY COMMISSION 0 COUNTY OF HAWAII TITLE III - RULES OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAII SALARY COMMISSION TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 200 GENERAL APPLICABILITY PAGE NO. §200-1 Authority 200-1 §200-2 Construction of rules 200-1 §200-3 Procedure and terms 200-1 §200-4 Definitions 200-1 §200-5 The Commission 200-2 §200-6 Delegation of administrative duties 200-4 §200-7 Public records 200-5 Chapter 201 PROCEEDINGS BEFORE THE AGENCY • §201-1 General 201-1 §201-2 Appearances and practices before the agency 201-1 §201-3 Disqualification of Commission member or hearing officer 201-2 §201-4 Consolidation 201-2 §201-5 Retention of documents 201-2 §201-6 Commission decision 201-2 Chapter 202 RULES APPLICABLE TO RULEMAKING PROCEDURES §202-1 Initiation of rulemaking proceedings 202-1 §202-2 Notice of public hearing 202-2 §202-3 Conduct of hearing 202-2 §202-4 Commission action 202-3 §202-5 Emergency rule making 202-3 §202-6 Filing of rules 202-3 §202-7 Taking effect of rules 202-3 §202-8 Publication of rules 202-3 Chapter 203 RULES APPLICABLE TO DECLARATORY RULINGS • §203-1 Petitions for declaratory rulings 203-1 ATT. A PAGE NO. • §203-2 Request for hearing 203-1 §203-3 Applicability of order 203-2 §203-4 Declaratory ruling on Commission's own motion 203-2 §203-5 Refusal to issue declaratory order 203-2 S • SALARY COMMISSION • TITLE III - RULES OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI'l SALARY COMMISSION CHAPTER 200 GENERAL APPLICABILITY §200-1 Authority §200-2 Construction of rules §200-3 Procedure and terms §200-4 Definitions §200-5 The Commission §200-6 Delegation of administrative duties §200-7 Public records §200-1 Authority. These rules govern practice and procedure before the Salary Commission of the County of Hawaii under County Charter, and Hawaii Revised Statutes, Chapters 91 and 92. [Eff. 10-20-02] §200-2 Construction of rules. The rules shall be liberally construed as to secure the just, speedy, and inexpensive determination of every proceeding. [Eff. 10-20-02] • §200-3 Procedure and terms. (a) Statutory terms. The terms used in rules promulgated by the Commission pursuant to powers granted by statute shall have the meaning defined by such statute, unless the context otherwise specifically requires. (b) Terms defined by rule. A rule or regulation that defines a term without express reference to the statute or to these rules or to a portion thereof, defines such terms for all purposes as used both in the statute and in these rules, unless the context otherwise specifically requires. (c) Use of number and gender. Words importing the singular number may extend and be applied to several persons or things;words importing the plural may include the singular; and words importing the masculine gender may be applied to females. [Eff. 10-20-02] §200-4 Definitions. (a) Agency. The term "Agency" means each county board, Commission, department, or officer,except those in the legislative branch. (b) Chairperson. The term"Chairperson" means the Chairperson of the Commission. (c) Commission. The term"Commission"means the Hawai'i County Salary Commission. (d) Council. The term"Council"means the County Council of the County of Hawai'i. (e) Hearing. The term"Hearing"means any proceeding governed by the Commission. (f) Meeting. The term"Meeting"means the convening of the Commission for which a quorum is required in order to make a decision or to deliberate toward a 200-1 decision upon a matter over which the Commission has supervision, control,jurisdiction, • or advisory power. (g) Party. The term"Party"means each person or agency named or admitted as a party or properly seeking and entitled as of right to be admitted as a party in a proceeding. (h) Person. The term"Person"includes individuals, partnerships, corporations, associations, or public or private organizations of any character other than governmental agencies. (I) Presiding officer. The term "Presiding officer, "with respect to proceedings, means the Chairperson, and includes any member of the Commission designated as such, or such other persons authorized by law to conduct hearings. (j) Proceedings. The term"Proceedings" means the Commission's elucidation of the relevant facts and applicable law, consideration thereof, and action thereupon with respect to a particular subject within the Commission's jurisdiction, initiated by a filing or submittal or request or a Commission's notice or order. It shall include proceedings involving the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any rule or regulation of the Agency, whether initiated by Commission order or notice, or by petition of an interested person. [Eff. 10-20-021 §200-5 The Commission. (a) Office. The office of the Commission is at Hilo, Hawaii. All communications to the Commission shall be addressed to the Hawai'i County Salary Commission, c/o The Director of Personnel, County of Hawaii Aupuni Center, 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 2, Hilo, Hawaii 96720, unless otherwise specifically • directed. (b) Meetings. The Commission shall meet in the Councilroom, Hawaii County Building, or such other public place as the Commission may designate. (1) Open meetings. All meetings of the Commission, except executive meetings, shall be open to the public. (2) Executive meetings. The Commission may hold an executive meeting, closed to the public, upon an affirmative vote, taken at an open meeting, of two-thirds of the members present or by a majority of the members to which the Commission is entitled, whichever is greater. The vote of each member on the question of holding a meeting closed to the public and the reason for holding such a meeting shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the meeting. A meeting closed to the public may be held only for one or more of the following purposes: (A) To consult with the Commission's attorney; (B) For any other specific purpose hereafter authorized by law. (3) Chance meetings. The rules governing meetings shall not apply to any chance meeting, as defined by Hawaii Revised Statutes, Section 92-2, at which matters relating to official business are not discussed. No chance meeting or electronic communication shall be used to circumvent the spirit or requirements of the meetings provisions to make a decision or to deliberate toward a decision upon a matter over which the Commission has supervision, control,jurisdiction, or advisory power. (4) Regular meetings. Regular or general meetings will be held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month, unless otherwise specified. 200-2 (5) Special meetings. Special meetings of the Commission for the transaction • of its business may be held at any time and place as scheduled by the Commission upon publication of notice of such special meeting in two newspapers of general circulation within the County at least twenty-four hours prior to the meetings. (6) Emergency meetings. If the Commission finds that an imminent peril to the public health, safety, or welfare requires a meeting in less time than is provided for in Rule 200-5 b(7), the Commission may hold an emergency meeting, provided: (A) the Commission states in writing the reasons for its findings; (B) two-thirds of all members to which the Commission is entitled agree that an emergency exists; (C) an emergency agenda and the findings are filed with the Office of the County Clerk and in the Commission's office; and (D) persons requesting notification pursuant to Rule 200-5 b(7) are contacted by mail or telephone as soon as practicable. (7) Notice. (A) The Commission shall give written public notice of any regular, special, or rescheduled meeting. The notice shall include an agenda which lists all of the items to be considered at the forthcoming meeting, the date, time, and place of the meeting. (B) The Commission shall file the notice in the Office of the County Clerk and in the Commission's office for public inspection at least six • days before the meeting. The notice shall also be posted at the site of the meeting whenever feasible. The Commission shall not add items to the agenda, once filed,without a two-thirds recorded vote of all members to which the Commission is entitled; provided that no item shall be added to the agenda in the manner provided herein, if it is of reasonably major importance and action thereon by the Commission will affect a significant number of persons. (C) The Commission shall maintain a list of names and addresses of persons who request notification of meetings and shall mail a copy of the notice to such persons at their last recorded address no later than the time the agenda is filed under subsection (b). (8) Construction. The provisions requiring open meetings shall be liberally construed and the provisions providing for exceptions to open meeting requirements shall be strictly construed against closed meetings. (c) Hearings. All parties shall be afforded an opportunity for hearing after reasonable notice. The notice shall include a statement of: (1) The date, time, place, and nature of the hearing; (2) The legal authority under which the hearing is to be held; (3) The particular sections of the statutes and rules involved; (4) An explicit statement in plain language of the issues involved and the facts alleged by the Commission in support thereof; provided, that if the Commission is unable to state such issues and facts in detail at the time the notice is served, the initial notice may be limited to a statement of the • issues involved; and (5) The fact that any party may retain counsel if he so desires. 200-3 (d) Quorum and number of votes necessary to validate acts. A majority of all • members to which the Commission is entitled shall constitute a quorum to transact business, and the concurrence of a majority of all members to which the Commission is entitled shall be necessary to make valid any action of the Commission. (e) Minutes. The Commission shall keep written minutes of all meetings. Unless otherwise required by law, neither a full transcript nor a recording of the meeting is required, but the written minutes shall give a true reflection of the matters discussed and the views of the participants. The minutes shall include, but need not be limited to: (1) The date, time, and place of the meeting; (2) The members of the Commission recorded as either present or absent; (3) The substance of all matters proposed, discussed, or decided; and a record, by individual member, of any votes taken; and (4) Any other information that any member of the Commission requests be included or reflected in the minutes. The minutes shall be public records and shall be available within thirty days after the meeting except where such disclosure would be inconsistent with Hawai'i Revised Statutes, Section 92-5, or Section 13-20, Hawaii County Charter; provided that minutes of executive meetings may be withheld so long as their publication would defeat the lawful purpose of the executive meeting, but no longer. (f) Administration. (1) Chairperson. The Chairperson of the Commission shall be responsible for the administration functions of the Commission. • (2) Authentication of the Commission action. All decisions, orders, and other actions of the Commission shall be authenticated or signed by the Chairperson, or upon delegation by the Chairperson by any other member of the Commission. Official copies of decisions, orders, and other Commission actions may be promulgated under the signature of the Chairperson of the Commission or his delegation. (g) Submittals and requests. All documents required to be filed with the Commission shall be filed in the office of the Commission within such time limits as prescribed by laws,rules of the Commission, or orders of the Commission. Requests for public information, copies of official documents, or opportunity to inspect public records may be made in writing to the Commission's office or in person at said office. (h) Parliamentary practice. The rules of parliamentary authority,where not inconsistent with the rules adopted by the Commission, shall be Robert's Rules of Order Revised. [Eff. 10-20-02] §200-6 Delegation of administrative duties. (a) General. The Commission may delegate to any competent and qualified individual such power or authority vested in the Commission as it deems reasonable and proper for the effective administration of the Commission except the power to make, amend, or repeal rules and regulations. (b) Hearing officer. The Commission may, by written resolution adopted by a majority of the members to which it is entitled, appoint a competent and qualified disinterested person to act as its hearing officer. The hearing officer shall hear the • matter in the same manner as if it were before the Commission and, upon the conclusion of the hearing,shall transmit to the Commission a record of the hearing, 200-4 including a recording or transcript and a summary of evidence taken at said hearing. 10 After review of the testimony and evidence, a majority of the members to which the Commission is entitled shall render a decision in accordance with Hawai'i Revised Statutes, Section 91-11. [Eff. 10-20-02] §200-7 Public records. (a) Files of the Commission. The term "Public Records"as used in this part is defined as in Hawai'i Revised Statutes, Section 92-50, and shall include all rules, regulations, written statements of policy or interpretations formulated, adopted, or used by the Commission, all complaints, opinions and orders, written testimony, minutes of meetings of the Commission, and any other material on file in the office of the Commission unless accorded confidential treatment pursuant to law or the rules of the Commission. (b) Inspection of public records. All public records will be available for inspection in the office of the Commission, Hilo, Hawaii, during established office hours unless public inspection of such records is in violation of any State or Federal law; provided that, except where such records are open under any rule of court, the Corporation Counsel may determine which records may be withheld from public inspection when such records pertain to the preparation of the prosecution or defense of any action or proceeding to which the Commission, the State, or any governmental agency or subdivision is or may be a party, or when such records do not relate to a matter in violation of law and are deemed necessary for the protection of the character or reputation of any person. (c) Copies of public records. Public records printed or reproduced by the • Commission shall be given to any person requesting the same and paying the fees established by the Commission or by law. (d) Requests. Requests for public information, for permission to inspect public records, or for copies of public records shall be handled expeditiously. Any material with respect to the Commission will not be released without the approval of the Chairperson or his delegate. (e) Denial of inspection. Any person denied the right to public information, to inspect public records, or to copies of public records may apply to the circuit court of the circuit wherein the public record is found for an order permitting the right to public information, to inspect public records, or to copies of public records. [Eff. 10-20-02] • 200-5 SALARY COMMISSION S TITLE III-RULES OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAII SALARY COMMISSION CHAPTER 201 PROCEEDINGS BEFORE THE AGENCY §201-1 General §201-2 Appearances and practices before the agency §201-3 Disqualification of Commission member or hearing officer §201-4 Consolidation §201-5 Retention of documents §201-6 Commission decision §201-1 General. The Commission may, on its own motion or upon the petition of any interested person or agency of the Federal, State, or County government, hold such proceedings as it may deem necessary in the performance of its duties or the formulation of its rules and regulations. Procedures to be followed by the Commission shall, unless specifically prescribed in these Rules or by the Hawai'i Administrative Procedure Act or by any other statute, be such as in the opinion of the Commission will • best serve the purpose of such proceeding. [Eff. 10-20-02] §201-2 Appearances and practices before the agency. (a) Representation. In any proceeding under these rules, any party may be represented by counsel or any other person to whom the party has given written or verbal authority. (b) Validation of authority. When an individual acting in a representative capacity appears in person or signs a paper in practice before the Commission, that person's personal appearance or signature shall constitute a representation to the Commission that, under the provisions of these rules and the law, the person is authorized and qualified to represent the particular person on whose behalf the representative acts. The Commission may at any time require any person transacting business with the Commission in a representative capacity to show that person's authority and qualification to act in such a capacity. (c) Bar to appearance. (1) Former Commission association. No individual who has been associated with the Commission as a member, officer, employee, or counsel shall be permitted to appear before the Commission on behalf of or to represent in any manner any party in connection with any proceeding or matter that such individual has handled or passed upon while associated in any capacity with the Commission. (2) Limitations of assistance from barred persons. No person or agency appearing before the Commission in any proceeding or matter shall, in relation thereto, knowingly accept assistance from and compensate any • individual who would be barred by Rule 201-2(c). 201-1 (3) Written consent to appear. No person who has been associated with the • Commission as a member, officer, employee, or counsel thereof shall be permitted to appear before the Commission on behalf of, or to represent in any manner, any person, agency, or the Council in connection with any proceeding or matter that was pending before the Commission at the time of that person's association, unless the person shall first have obtained the written consent of the Commission, upon a verified showing that the person did not give personal consideration to the matter or proceeding as to which consent is sought or gain particular knowledge of the facts thereof during the person's association with the Commission. (4) One year limitation. This subsection shall not apply to any individual or agency whose association with the Commission has been terminated for a period of one year. [Eff. 10-20-02] §201-3 Disqualification of Commission member or hearing officer. Any party to a hearing may, up to five days before the proceeding, file an affidavit that one or more of the members or a hearing officer has a personal bias or prejudice. The member against whom the affidavit is so filed may answer the affidavit or may file a disqualifying certificate with the Commission. If the member or hearing officer chooses to answer the affidavit, the remaining members shall decide by a majority of all the members to which the Commission is entitled whether that member or hearing officer should be disqualified from proceeding therein. Every such affidavit shall state the facts and reasons for the belief that bias or prejudice exists and shall be filed at least five days • before the hearing, or good cause shall be shown for the failure to file it within such time. Any Commission member or hearing officer may disqualify himself by filing with the Chairperson a certificate that he deems himself unable for any reason to preside with impartiality in the pending hearing. [Eff. 10-20-02] §201-4 Consolidation. The Commission, upon its own initiative or upon motion, may consolidate for hearing or for other purposes or may contemporaneously consider two or more proceedings that involve substantially the same parties, or issues that are the same or closely related, if it finds that such consolidation or contemporaneous hearing will be conducive to the proper dispatch of its business and to the ends of justice and will not unduly delay the proceedings. [Eff. 10-20-02] §201-5 Retention of documents. All documents filed with or presented to the Commission shall be retained in the files of the Commission. The Commission may permit the withdrawal of original documents upon submission of properly authenticated copies to replace such documents. [Eff. 10-20-02] §201-6 Commission decision. All final orders, opinions, or rulings entered by the Commission in the proceeding and rules promulgated by the Commission shall be served upon the parties participating in the proceeding by regular mail or personal delivery by the Commission. Copies of such material shall be available for public inspection in the office of the Commission or may be obtained upon request and upon payment of reasonable fees, if any. [Eff. 10-20-02] • 201-2 SALARY COMMISSION • TITLE III-RULES OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAII SALARY COMMISSION CHAPTER 202 RULES APPLICABLE TO RULEMAKING PROCEDURES §202-1 Initiation of rulemaking proceedings §202-2 Notice of public hearing §202-3 Conduct of hearing §202-4 Commission action §202-5 Emergency rule making §202-6 Filing of rules §202-7 Taking effect of rules §202-8 Publication of rules §202-1 Initiation of rulemaking proceedings. (a) Motion by Commission. The Commission may, at any time on its own motion, initiate proceedings for the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any rule of the Commission. Procedures to be followed in rulemaking shall be as set forth herein and the applicable statutes. (b) Petition by person or agency. Any interested person or agency may • petition the Commission for the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any rule of the Commission. Petitions for rulemaking filed with the Commission will become matters of public record. (1) Form and content. Petition for rulemaking shall contain the name, address, and telephone number of each petitioner; the signature of each petitioner; a draft or the substance of the proposed rule or amendment or a designation of the provisions, the repeal of which is desired; a statement of the petitioner's interest in the subject matter; and a statement of the reasons in support of the proposed rule, amendment, or repeal. (2) Commission action. The Commission shall,within thirty days after the filing of a petition for rulemaking, either deny the petition or initiate public rulemaking proceedings. (1) Denial of petition. Any petition that fails in material respect to comply with the requirements herein or that fails to disclose sufficient reasons to justify the institution of rulemaking proceedings will not be considered by the Commission. The Commission shall notify the petitioner in writing of such denial, stating the reasons therefor. Denial of a petition shall not operate to prevent the Commission from acting, on its own motion, on any matter disclosed in the petition. Petitioner may seek a review of said denial through the circuit court pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act and applicable rules of court and statutes. (2) Acceptance of petition. If the Commission determines that the petition is in order and that it discloses sufficient reasons in support of the proposed • rulemaking to justify the institution of rulemaking proceedings, the 202-1 procedures to be followed shall be as set forth in Rules 202-3 through 202-8 • herein and the applicable statutes. [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-2 Notice of public hearing. (a) Publication and mailing. When, pursuant to a petition therefor or upon its own motion, the Commission proposes to adopt, amend, or repeal a rule or regulation, a notice of proposed rule making shall be published at least once in at least two newspapers of general circulation in the County and such notice shall also be mailed to all persons or agencies who have made timely written requests for advance notice of the Commission's rule making proceedings. All such notices shall be published at least thirty days prior to the date set for the public hearing. (b) Form. A notice of the proposed adoption, amendment, or repeal of a rule or regulation shall include: (1) a statement of the date, time, and place where the public hearing will be held; (2) reference to the authority under which the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a rule or regulation is proposed; (3) a statement of the substance of the proposed rule. [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-3 Conduct of hearing. (a) Presiding officer. The public hearing for the adoption, amendment, or repeal of rules and regulations shall be heard before the Commission and presided over by the Chairperson of the Commission or in his absence, by another member designated by the Commission. The hearing shall be conducted in • such a way as to afford to interested persons and agencies a reasonable opportunity to offer testimony with respect to the matters specified in the notice of hearing and so as to obtain a clear and orderly record. The presiding officer shall have authority to administer oaths or affirmations and to take all other actions necessary to the orderly conduct of the hearing. (b) Continuance of hearing. Each such hearing shall be held at the time and place set in the notice of hearing but may at such time and place be continued by the presiding officer from day to day or to a later date or to a different place without notice other than the announcement thereof at the hearing. (c) Order of proceeding. At the commencement of the hearing, the presiding officer shall read the notice of hearing and shall then outline briefly the procedure to be followed. Testimony shall then be received with respect to the matters specified in the notice of hearing in such order as the presiding officer shall prescribe. (d) Submission of testimony. Each witness shall, before proceeding to testify, state his name, address, and whom he represents at the hearing, and shall give such information respecting his appearance as the presiding officer may request. The presiding officer shall confine the testimony to the matters for which the hearing has been called but shall not apply the technical rules of evidence. Every witness shall be subject to questioning by the members of the Commission or by any other representative of the Commission. (e) Oral and written presentation. All interested persons or agencies will be afforded an opportunity to submit data, views, or arguments, orally or in writing, that are relevant to the matters specified in the notice of hearing. The period for filing • written comments or recommendations may be extended beyond the hearing date by 202-2 the presiding officer for good cause. An original and nine copies are requested when submitting written comments, recommendations, or replies. (f) Transcript of the evidence. Unless otherwise specifically ordered by the Commission, testimony given at the public hearing shall not be reported verbatim. All supporting written statements, maps, charts, tabulations, or similar data offered in evidence at the hearing, and which are deemed by the presiding officer to be authentic and relevant, shall be received in evidence and made a part of the record. [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-4 Commission action. The Commission will consider all relevant comments and materials of record before taking final action in a rulemaking proceeding. Final action shall be taken within sixty days after the final public hearing, or the expiration of any extension period for submission of written comments or recommendations. [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-5 Emergency rule making. Notwithstanding the foregoing rules, if the Commission finds that an imminent peril to public health or safety requires adoption, amendment, or repeal of a rule or regulation upon less than thirty days' notice of hearing, and states in writing its reasons for such finding, it may proceed without prior notice of hearing or upon such abbreviated notice and hearing as it finds practicable to adopt an emergency rule or regulation. The Commission shall make an emergency rule known to persons who will be affected by it by publication in at least two newspapers of general circulation in the County. [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-6 Filing of rules. The Commission, upon adopting, amending, or repealing a rule and approval by the Mayor, shall file certified copies thereof with the County Clerk. [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-7 Taking effect of rules. Each rule adopted, amended, or repealed shall become effective ten days after filing with the County Clerk. If a later effective date is required by statute or specified in rule, the later date shall be the effective date; provided that no rule shall specify an effective date in excess of thirty days after the filing of the rule with the County Clerk. An emergency rule shall become effective upon filing with the County Clerk for a period not exceeding one-hundred twenty days without renewal unless extended in compliance with the provisions of subdivisions (1) and (2) of Hawaii Revised Statutes,Section 91-3(a). [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-8 Publication of rules. The Commission shall, as soon as practicable, compile, index, and publish all rules adopted by the Commission and remaining in effect. Compilations shall be supplemented as often as necessary and shall be revised at least once every ten years. [Eff. 10-20-02] • 202-3 SALARY COMMISSION S TITLE III-RULES OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAII SALARY COMMISSION CHAPTER 203 RULES APPLICABLE TO DECLARATORY RULINGS §203-1 Petitions for declaratory rulings §203-2 Request for hearing §203-3 Applicability of order §203-4 Declaratory ruling on Commission's own motion §203-5 Refusal to issue declaratory order §203-1 Petitions for declaratory rulings. On petition of an interested person or agency, the Commission may issue a declaratory order as to the applicability of any statutory provision, ordinance, or of any rule or regulation or order of the Commission. (a) Form and contents. The petition shall contain the name, address, and telephone number of each petitioner; the signature of each petitioner; a designation of the specific provision, rule, or order in question, together with a statement of the controversy or uncertainty involved; a statement of the petitioner's interest in the subject matter, including the reasons for submission of the petition; a statement of the petitioner's position or contention; and a memorandum of authorities, containing a full discussion of reasons and legal authorities, in support of such position or contention. (b) Commission action. Within sixty days after the submission of a petition for declaratory ruling, the Commission shall either deny the petition in writing, stating the reasons for such denial or issue a declaratory order on the matters contained in the petition, or set the matter for hearing, as provided in 203-2; provided, however, that if the matter is set for hearing,the Commission shall render its findings and decisions within sixty days after the close of the hearing. (c) Dismissal of petition. The Commission may, without notice or hearing, dismiss a petition for declaratory ruling that fails in material respect to comply with the requirements of this part. [Eff. 10-20-02] §203-2 Request for hearing. Although in the usual course of disposition of a petition for a declaratory ruling no formal hearing will be granted to the petitioner or to a party in interest,the Commission may in its discretion order such proceeding set down for hearing. Any petitioner or party in interest who desires a hearing on a petition for a declaratory ruling shall set forth in detail in his request the reasons why the matters alleged in the petition, together with supporting affidavits or other written evidence and briefs or memoranda of legal authorities, will not permit the fair and expeditious disposition of the petition and, to the extent that such request for a hearing is dependent upon factual assertion, shall accompany such request by affidavit establishing such facts. In the event a hearing is ordered by the Commission, Hawaii • Revised Statutes,Section 91-9, shall govern the proceedings. [Eff. 10-20-02] 203-1 §203-3 Applicability of order. An order disposing of a petition shall be applicable only to the factual situation described in the petition or set forth in the order. [Eff. 10-20-02] §203-4 Declaratory ruling on Commission's own motion. Notwithstanding the other provisions of this part, the Commission may, on its own motion or upon request but without notice of hearing, issue a declaratory order to terminate a controversy or to remove uncertainty. [Eff. 10-20-02] §203-5 Refusal to issue declaratory order. The Commission may, for good cause, refuse to issue a declaratory order with specific reasons for such determination. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Commission may so refuse where: (a) the question is speculative or purely hypothetical and does not involve existing facts, or facts that can be expected to exist in the near future; (b) the petitioner's interest is not of the type that would give him standing to maintain an action if he were to seek judicial relief; (c) the issuance of the declaratory order may affect the interests of the Commission in a litigation that is pending or may reasonably be expected to arise; or (d) the matter is not within the jurisdiction of the Commission. [Eff. 10-20-02] • 203-2 SALARY COMMISSION • COUNTY OF HAWAII TITLE III-RULES OFTHE COUNTY OF HAWAII SALARY COMMISSION TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 200 GENERAL APPLICABILITY PAGE NO. §200-1 Authority 200-1 §200-2 Construction of rules .- 200-1 §200-3 Procedure and terms 200-1 §200-4 Definitions 200-1 §200-5 The Commission 200-2 §200-6 Delegation of administrative duties 200-4 §200-7 Public records - 200-5 Chapter 201 PROCEEDINGS BEFORE THE AGENCY §201-1 General 201-1 • §201-2 Appearances and practices before the agency 201-1 §201-3 Disqualification of Commission member or hearing officer 201-2 §201-4 Consolidation 201-2 §201-5 Retention of documents 201-2 §201-6 Commission decision 201-2 Chapter202 RULESAPPLICABLE TO RULEMAKING PROCEDURES §202-1 Initiation of rulemaking proceedings 202-1 §202-2 Notice of public hearing 202-2 §202-3 Conduct of hearing 202-2 §202-4 Commission action ... 202-3 §202-5 Emergency rule making 202-3 §202-6 Filing of rules 202-3 §202-7 Taking effect of rules . 202-3 §202-8 Publication of rules 202-3 Chapter 203 RULES APPLICABLE TO DECLARATORY RULINGS ATT. B • §203-1 Petitions for declaratory rulings 203-1 Presented: May 24, 2018 Submitted by Amy Self, Deputy Corporation Counsel PAGE NO. • §203-2 Request for hearing 203-1 §203-3 Applicability of order 203-2 §203-4 Declaratory ruling on Commission's own motion 203-2 §203-5 Refusal to issue declaratory order 203-2 • SALARY COMMISSION • TITLE III- RULES OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI'I SALARY COMMISSION CHAPTER 200 GENERAL APPLICABILITY §200-1 Authority §200-2 Construction of rules §200-3 Procedure and terms §200-4 Definitions §200-5 The Comm"ssion §200-6 Delegation of administrative duties §200-7 Public records §200-1 Authority. These rules govern practice and procedure before the Salary Commission of the County of Hawai'i under County Charter,and Hawai'i Revised Statutes,Chapters 91 and 92. [Eff. 10-20-02] §200-2 Construction of rules. The rules shall be liberally construed as to secure the just, speedy,and inexpensive determination of every proceeding. [Eff. 10-20-02] • §200-3 Procedure and terms. (a) Statutory terms. The terms used in rules promulgated bythe Commission pursuant to powers granted by statute shall have the meaning defined bysuch statute,unless the context otherwise specifically requires. (b) Terms defined by rule. A rule or regulation that defines a term without express reference to the statute or to these rules or to a portion thereof, defines such terms for all purposes as used both in the statute and in these rules, unless the context otherwise specifically requires. (c) Use of number and gender. Words importing the singular number may extend and be applied to several persons or things;words importing the plural may include the singular; and words importing the masculine gender may be applied to females. [Eff. 10-20-02] §200-4 Definitions. (a) Agency. The term "Agency" means each county board, Commission,department. or officer.except those in the legislative branch. (b) Chairperson. The term "Chairperson" means the Chairperson of the Commission. (c) Commission. The term "Commission" means the Hawai'i County Salary Commission. (d) Council. The term "Council" means the County Council of the County of Hawai'i. (e) Hearing. The term "Hearing" means any proceeding governed by the Commission. • (f) Meeting. The term "Meeting" means the convening of the Commission for which a quorum 's required in order to make a decision or to deliberate toward a 200-1 decision upon a matter over which the Commission has supervision.control,jurisdiction, • or advisory power. (g} Party. The term "Party"means each person or agency named or admitted as a party or properly seeking and entitled as of right to be admitted as a party in a proceeding. (h} Person. The term "Person" includes individuals,partnerships,corporations, associations,or public or private organizations of any character other than governmental agencies. (i} Presiding officer. The term "Presiding officer," with respect to proceedings, means the Chairperson, and includes any member of the Commission designated as such, or such other persons authorized by law to conduct hearings. U} Proceedings. The term "Proceedings"means the Commission's elucidation of the relevant facts and applicable law,consideration thereof,and action thereupon with respect to a particular subject within the Commission's jurisdiction, initiated by a filing or submittal or request or a Commission's notice or order. It shall include proceedings involving the adoption,amendment,or repeal of any rule or regulation of the Agency,whether initiated by Commission order or notice,or by petition of an interested person. [Eff. 10-20-02] §200-5 The Commission. (a) Office. The office of the Commission r at Hib, Hawai'i. All communications to the Commission shall be addressed to the Hawai'i County Salary Commission,c/o The Director of Personnel, County of Hawai'i Aupuni Center, 101 Pauahi Street, Suie 2, Hilo, Hawaii 96720, unless otherwise specifically directed. • (b} Meetings.The Commission shall meet inthe Councilroom, Hawai'i County Building,or such other public place as the Commission may designate. (1) Open meetings. All meetings of the Commission, except executive meetings, shall be open to the public. (2) Executive meetings. The Commission may hold an executive meeting, closed to the public,upon an affirmative vote,taken at an open meeting, of two-thirds of the members present or by a majority of the members to which the Commission is entitled,whichever is greater. The vote of each member on the question of holding a meeting closed to the public and the reason for holding such a meeting shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the meeting. A meeting closed to the public may beheld onlyfor one or more of the following purposes: (A} To consult with the Commission's attorney; (B} For any other specific- purpose hereafter authorized under Hawai'i Revised Statutes (HRS) § 92-5 (as amended) w. (3) Chance meetings. The rules governing meetings shall not apply to any chance meeting,as defined by HRS- - ' - -. _ . . - , _ -. e 92-2,at which matters relating to official business are not discussed. No chance meeting or electronic communication shall be used to circumvent the spirit or requirements of the meetings provisions to make a decision or to deliberate toward a decision upon a matter over which the Commission has supervision ,control,jurisdiction, or advisory power. (4) Regular meetings. The Commission shall meet at least • annual' Regular or general meetings will be held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month, unless otherwise specified. 200-2 (5) Special meetings. Special meetings of the Commission forthetransaction • of its business may be held at any time and place as scheduled by the Commission _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _- _ _ _ _ - _ _ •- -- _ - hours prior to the meetings. (6) Emergency meethgs. If the Commission finds that an imminent peril to the public health,safety, or welfare requires a meeting in less time than 's provided for in Rule 200-5 b(7),the Commission may hold an emergency meeting, provided: (A) the Commission states inwriting the reasons for its findings; (B) two-thirds of all members to which the Commission entitled agree that an emergency exists; (C) an emergency agenda and the findings are filed with the Office of the County Clerk and in the Commission's office; and (D) persons requesting notification pursuant to Rule 200-5 b(7) are contacted by mail or telephone as soon as practicable. (7) Notice. (A} The Commission shall give written public notice of any regular, special,or rescheduled meeting. The notice shall include an agenda which lists all of the items to be considered at the forthcoming meeting, the date, time,and place of the meeting. (B} The Commission shall file the notice in the Office of the County Clerk and inthe Commission's office for public inspection at least six 1111 days before the meeting. The notice shall also be posted at the site of the meeting whenever feasible_ The Commission shall not add items to the agenda,once filed, without a two-thirds recorded vote of all members to which the Commission 's entitled; provided that no sem shall be added to the agenda in the manner provided herein,if it is of reasonably major importance and action thereon by the Commission will affect a signsicant number of persons. (C} The Commission shall maintain a list of names and addresses of persons who request notification of meetings and shall mail a copy of the notice to such persons at their last recorded address no later than the time the agenda is filed under subsection (b}. (8) Construction. The provisions requiring open meetings shall be liberally construed and the provisions providing for exceptions to open meeting requirements shall be strictly construed against closed meetings. (c) Hearings. All parties shall be afforded an opportunity for hearing after reasonable notice. The notice shall include a statement of: (1) The date, time,place, and nature of the hearing; (2) The legal authority under which the hearing is to be held; (3) The particular sections of the statutes and rules involved; (4) An explicit statement in plain language of the issues involved and the facts alleged by the Commission in support thereof;provided,that if the Commission 's unable to state such issues and facts in detail at the time the notice is served,the initial notice may be limited to a statement of the • issues involved;and (5) The fact that any party may retain counsel s he so desires. 200-3 (d) Quorum and number of votes necessary to validate acts_ A majority of all • members to whbh the Commission s entitled shall constitute a quorum to transact business,and the concurrence of a majority of all members to whbh the Commission is entitled shall be necessary to make valid any action of the Commission. (e) Minutes. The Commission shall keep written minutes of all meetings. Unless otherwise required by law, neither a full transcript nor a recording of the meeting is requ"red, but the written minutes shall give a true reflection of the matters discussed and the views of the participants. The minutes shall include. but need not be limited to: (1) The date,time, and place of the meeting; (2) The members of the Commission recorded as either present or absent; (3) The substance of all matters proposed,discussed, or decided;and a record,by individual member, of any votes taken;and (4) Any other information that any member of the Commission requests be included or reflected in the minutes. The minutes shall be public records and shall be available within thirty days after the meeting except where such disclosure would be inconsistent with Hawaii Revised Statutes.Section 92-5, or Section 13-20, Hawai'i County Charter; provided that minutes of executive meetings may be withheld so long as their publication would defeat the lawful purpose of the executive meeting,but no longer. (f) Administration. (I) Chairperson. The Chairperson of the Commission shall be responsible for the administration functions of the Commission. • (2) Authentication of the Commission action. All decisions,orders,and other actions of the Commission shall be authenticated or signed by the Chairperson,or upon delegation by the.Chairperson by any other member of the Commission . Official copies of decisions, orders, and other Commission actions may be promulgated under the signature of the Chairperson of the Commission or he delegation. (g) Submitals and requests. All documents required to be filed with the Comm."ssion shall be filed in the,office of the Commission within such time limits as prescribed by laws,rules of the Commission,or orders of the Commission. Requests for public information,copies of official documents,or opportun qty to inspect public records may be made in writing to the Commission's office or in person at said office. Ih) Parliamentary practice. The rules of parliamentary authority,where not inconsistent with the rules adopted by the Commission,shall be Robert's Rules of Order Revised. [Eff. 10-20-02] §200-6 Deleaation of administrative duties. (a) General. The Commission may delegate to any competent and qualified individual such power or authority vested in the Commission as I deems reasonable and proper for the effective adminetration of the Commission except the power to make,amend, or repeal rules and regulations. (b) Hearing officer. The Commission may, by written resolution adopted by a majority of the members to which it 's entitled,appoint a competent and qualified disinterested person to act as is hearing officer. The hearing officer shall hear the • matter in the same manner as i it were before the Commission and, upon the conclusion of the hearing,shall transmit to the Commission a record of the hearing, 200-4 including a recording or transcript and a summary of evidence taken at said hearing. • After review of the testimony and evidence, a majority of the members to which the Commission is entitled shall render a decision in accordance with Hawai'i Revised Statutes, Section 91-1 1. [Eff. 10-20-02] §200-7 Public records. (a) Files of the Commission . The term "Public Records"as used in this part is defined as in Hawai'i Revised Statutes,Section 92-50, and shall include all rules,regulations, written statements of policy or interpretations formulated, adopted,or used by the Commission,all complaints, opinions and orders,written testimony, minutes of meetings of the Commission,and any other material on file in the office of the Commission unless accorded confidential treatment pursuant to law or the rules of the Commission . (b) Inspection of public records. All public records will be available for inspection in the office of the Commission, Hilo, Hawaii, during established office hours unless public inspection of such records is ii violation of any State or Federal law; provided that, except where such records are open under any rule of court,the Corporation Counsel may determine which records may bewithheld from public inspection when such records pertain to the preparation of the prosecution or defense of any action or proceeding to which the Commission,the State, or any governmental agency or subdivision r or may be a party,or when such records do not relate to a matter in violation of law and are deemed necessary for the protection of the character or reputation of any person. (c) Copies of public records. Public records printed or reproduced by the • Commission shall be given to any person requesting the same and paying the fees established by the Commission or bylaw. (d) Requests. Requests for public information,for permission to inspect public records, or for copies of public records shall be handled expedikiously. Any material with respect to the Commission will not be released without the approval of the Chairperson or hi delegate. (e) Denial of inspection. Any person denied the right to public reformation,to inspect public records, or to copies of public records may apply to the circuit court of the circuit wherein the public record 's found for an order permitting the right to public information, to inspect public records,or to copies of public records. [Eff. 10-20-02] • 200-5 SALARY COMMISSION • TITLE III-RULES OF THE COUNTY OFHAWAI'ISALARY COMMISSION CHAPTER 201 PROCEEDINGS BEFORE THEAGENCY §201-1 General §201-2 Appearances and practices before the agency §201-3 Disqualification of Commission member or hearing officer §201-4 Consolidation §201-5 Retention of documents §201-6 Commission decision §201-1 General. The Commission may,on its own motion or upon the petition of any interested person or agency of the Federal,State, or County government, hold such proceedings as it may deem necessary in the performance of its duties or the formulation of is rules and regulations. Procedures to be followed by the Commission shall, unless specifically prescribed ii these Rules or by the Hawaii Admin'strative Procedure Act or by any other statute, be such as in the opinion of the Commission will best serve the purpose of such proceeding. , [Eff. 10-20-02] §201-2 Appearances and practices before the agency. (a} Representation. In any proceeding under these rules,any party may be represented by counsel or any other person to whom the party has given written or verbal authority. (b) Validation of authority. When an individual acting in a representative capacity appears in person or signs a paper in practice before the Commission, that person's personal appearance or signature shall constitute a representation to the Commission that, under the provisions of these rules and the law,the person is authorized and qualified to represent the particular person on whose behalf the representative acts. The Commission may at any time require any person transacting business with the Commission in representative capacity to show that person's authority and qualification to act in such a capacity. (c) Bar to appearance. (1J Forrner Commission association. No in.dividualwho has been associated with the Commission as a member.officer, employee,or counsel shall be permitted to appear before the Commission on behalf of or to represent in any manner any party in connection with any proceeding or matter that such individual has handled or passed upon while associated in any capacity with the Commission. (2) Limitations of assistance from barred persons. No person or agency appearing before the Commission in any proceeding or matter shall, in relation thereto, knowingly accept assistance from and compensate any • individual who would be barred by Rule 201-2(c) . 201-1 (3) Written consent to appear. No person who has been associated with the • Commission as a member, officer, employee, or counsel thereof shall be permitted to appear before the Commission on behalf of. or to represent in any manner,any person,agency,or the Council in connection with any proceeding or matter that was pending before the Commission at the time of that person's association. unless the person shall first have obtained the written consent of the Comm'ssion, upon a verified showing that the person did not give personal consideration to the matter or proceeding as to which consent is sought or gain particular knowledge of the facts thereof during the person's association with the Commission. (4) One year limitation. This subsection shall not apply to any individual or agency whose association with the Commission has been terminated for a period of one year. [Eff. 10-20-02] §201-3 Disqualification of Commission member or hearing officer.Any party to a hearing may, up to five days before the proceeding,file an affidavit that one or more of the members or a hearing officer has a personal bias or prejudice. The member against whom the affidavit is so filed may answer the affidavit or may file a disqualifying certificate with the Commission. If the member or hearing officer chooses to answer the affidavit, the remaining members shall decide by a majority of all the members to which the Commission is entitled whether that member or hearing officer should be d"squalified from proceeding therein. Every such affidavit shall state the facts and reasons for the belief that bias or prejudice exists and shall be filed at least five days • before the hearing,or good cause shall be shown for the failure to file it within such time. Any Commission member or hearing officer may disqualify himself by filing with the Chairperson a certificate that he deems himself unable for any reason to preside with impartiality in the pending hearing. [Eff. 10-20-02] §201-4 Consolidation. The Com mission,upon its own initiative or upon motion, may consolidate for hearing or for other purposes or may contemporaneously consider two or more proceedings that involve substantially the same parties,or issues that are the same or closely related, if it finds that such consolidation or contemporaneous hearing will be conducive to the proper dispatch of its business and to the ends of justice and will not undulydelaythe proceedings. [Eff. 10-20-02] §201-5 Retention of documents . All documents filed with or presented to the Commsion shall be retained n the files of the Commission. The Commission may permit the withdrawal of original documents upon submission of properly authenticated copiesto replacesuch documents. [Eff. 10-20-02] §201-6 Commission decision. All final orders, opinions, or rulings entered by the Commission in the proceeding and rules promulgated by the Commission shall be served upon the parties participating in the proceeding by regular mail or personal delivery by the Commission. Copies of such material shall be available for public inspection ii the office of the Commission or may be obtained upon request and upon payment of reasonable fees,1 any. [Eff. 10-20-02] • 201-2 SALARY COMMISSION • TITLE 111-RULES OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI'I SALARY COMMISSION CHAPTER 202 RULES APPLICABLE TO RULEMAKING PROCEDURES §202-1 Initiation of rulemaking proceedings §202-2 Notice of public hearing §202-3 Conduct of hearing §202-4 Commission action §202-5 Emergency rule making §202-6 Filing of rules §202-7 Taking effect of rules §202-8 Publication of rules §202-1 Initiation of rulemakina proceedings. (a) Motion by Commssion. The Commission may,at any time on is own motion, in iate proceedings for the adoption, amendment,or repeal of any rule of the Commission . Procedures to be followed in rulemaking shall be as set forth hereh and the applicable statutes. (b) Petition by person or agency. Any interested person or agency may • petition the Commission for the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any rule of the Commsion. Petitions for rulemaking filed with the Commission will become matters of public record. (1) Form and content. Petition for rulemaking shall contain the name, address,and telephone number of each petitioner;the signature of each petitioner; a draft or the substance of the proposed rule or amendment or a designation of the provisions. the repeal of which 'is desired;a statement of the petitioner's interest in the subject matter;and a statement of the reasons in support of the proposed rule, amendment,or repeal. (2) Commission action.The Commsion shall,within thirty days after the filing of a petition for rulemaking,either deny the petition or initiate public rulemaking proceedings. (1) Denial of petition. Any petition that fails in material respect to comply with the requirements herein or that fails to disclose sufficient reasons to justify the institution of rulemaking proceedings will not be considered by the Commission. The Commission shall notify the petitioner inwriting of such denial.stating the reasons therefor. Denial of a petition shall not operate to prevent the Commission from acting,on its own motion,on any matter disclosed in the petition. Petitioner may seek a review of said denial through the circuit court pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act and applicable rules of court and statutes. (2) Acceptance of petition. If the Commission determines that the petition is in order and that it discloses sufficient reasons in support of the proposed • rulemaking to justify the institution of rulemaking proceedings, the 202-1 procedures to be followed shall be as set forth in Rules 202-3 through 202-8 • herein and the applicable statutes. [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-2 Notice of public hearing. (a) Publication and mailing. When, pursuant to a petition therefor or upon its own motion, the Commission proposes to adopt, amend,or repeal a rule or regulation,a notice of proposed rule making shall be published at least once in at least two newspapers of general circulation in the County and such notice shall also be mailed to all persons or agencies who have made timely written requests for advance notice of the Commission's rule making proceedings.All such notices shall be published at least thirty days prior to the date set for the public hearing. (b) Form. A notice of the proposed adoption,amendment, or repeal of a rule or regulation shall include: {1) a statement of the date,time,and place where the public hearing will be held; (2) reference to the authority under which the adoption,amendment, or repeal of a rule or regulation is proposed; (3) a statement of the substance of the proposed rule. [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-3 Conduct of hearing. (a) Presiding officer. The public hearing for the adoptbn, amendment,or repeal of rules and regulations shall be heard before the Comm"ssion and presided over by the Chairperson of the Commission or in his absence, by another member designated by the Commission. The hearing shall be conducted in such a way as to afford to interested persons and agencies a reasonable opportunty • to offer testimony with respect to the matters specified in the notice of hearing and so as to obtain a clear and orderly record. The presiding officer shall have authority to administer oaths or affirmations and to take all other actions necessary to the orderly conduct of the hearing. (b) Continuance of hearing. Each such hearing shall be held at the time and place set in the notice of hearing but may at such time and place be continued by the presiding officer from day to day or to a later date or to a different place without notice other than the announcement thereof at the hearing. (c) Order of proceeding. At the commencement of the hearing,the presiding officer shall read the notice of hearing and shall then outline briefly the procedure to be followed. Testimony shall then be received with respect to the matters specified in the notice of hearing in such order as the presiding officer shall prescribe. (d) Submssion of testimony. Each witness shall, before proceeding to testify, state his name, address, and whom he represents at the hearing, and shall give such information respecting his appearance as the presiding officer may request. The presiding officer shall confine the testimony to the matters for which the hearing has been called but shall not apply the technical rules of evidence. Every witness shall be subject to questioning by the members of the Commission or by any other representative of the Comm'ssion. (e) Oral and written presentation. All interested persons or agencies will be afforded an opportunitytosubmitdata,views,orarguments,orally or inwriting,that are relevant to the matters specified inthe notice of hearing. The period forfiling • written comments or recommendations may be extended beyond the hearing date by 202-2 the presiding officer for good cause. An original and nine copies are requested when • submitting written comments, recommendations, or replies. (f) Transcript of the evidence. Unless otherwise specifically ordered by the Commission, testimony given at the public hearing shall not be reported verbatim. All supporting written statements, maps charts, tabulations, or similar data offered in evidence at the hearing, and which are deemed by the presiding officer to be authentic and relevant,shall be received in evidence and made a part of the record. [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-4 Commission action. The Commission will consider all relevant comments and materials of record before toking final action ii a rulemaking proceeding. Final action shall be taken within sixty days after the final public hearing, or the expiration of any extension period for subm-ssion of written comments or recommendations. [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-5 Emeraencv rule making. Notwithstanding the foregoing rules, if the Commission finds that an imminent peril to public health or safety requires adoption, amendment, or repeal of a rule or regulation upon less than thirty days' notice of hearing,and states in writing its reasons forsuch finding, it may proceed without prior notice of hearing or upon such abbreviated notice and hearing as it finds practicable to adopt an emergency rule or regulation. The Commission shall make an emergency rule known to persons who will be affected by it by publication in at least two newspapers of general circulation inthe County. [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-6 Filing of rules. The Commission, upon adopting,amending, or repealing a rule and approval by the Mayor, shall file certified copies thereof with the County Clerk. [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-7 Taking effect of rules. Each rule adopted,amended, or repealed shall become effective ten days after filingwith the County Clerk. If a later effective date 's required by statute or specified in rule,the later date shall be the effective date; provided that no rule shall specify an effective date in excess of thirty days after the filing of the rule with the County Clerk. An emergency rule shall become effective upon filing with the County Clerk for a period not exceeding one-hundred twenty days without renewal unless extended incompliance with the provisions of subdivisions (1) and (2) of Hawai'i Revised Statutes, Section 91-3(a) . [Eff. 10-20-02] §202-8 Publication of rules.The Commission shall, as soon as practicable, compile, index,and publish all rules adopted by the Commission and remaining in effect. Compilations shall be supplemented as often as necessary and shall be revised at leastonce every ten years. [Eff. 10-20-02] • 202-3 SALARY COMMISSION • TITLE III-RULES OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAII SALARY COMMISSION CHAPTER 203 RULES APPLICABLE TO DECLARATORY RULINGS §203-1 Petitions for declaratory rulings §203-2 Request for hearing §203-3 Applicability of order §203-4 Declaratory rulingon Commission's own motion §203-5 Refusal to issue declaratoryorder §203-1 Petitions for declaratory rulings. On petition of an interested person or agency,the Commission may issue a declaratory order as to the applicability of any statutory provision,ordinance,or of any rule or regulation or order of the Commission. (a) Form and contents. The petition shall contain the name.address,and telephone number of each petitioner; the signature of each petitioner;a designation of the specific provision, rule,or order in question. together with a statement of the controversy or uncertainty involved;a statement of the petitioner's interest in the subject matter. including the reasons for submission of the petition;a statement of the petitioner's position or contention;and a memorandum of authorities,containing a full discussion of reasons and legal authorities,in support of such position or contention. (b) Commission action. Within sixty days after the submission of a petition for declaratory ruling,the Commission shall either deny the petition in writing,stating the reasons for such denial or issue a declaratory order on the matters contained in the petition,or set the matter for hearing, as provided in 203-2;provided, however.that I the matter is set for hearing,the Commission shall render Is findings and decisions within sixty days after the close of the hearing. (c) Dismissal of petition. The Commission may, without notice or hearing, dismiss a petition for declaratory ruling that fails in material respect to comply with the requirements of this part. [Eff. 10-20-02] §203-2 Request for hearing. Although n the usual course of disposition of a petition for a declaratory ruling no formal hearing will be granted to the petitioner or to a party in interest.the Commission may in Is discretion order such proceeding set down for hearing. Any petitioner or party in interest who desires a hearing on a petition for a declaratory ruling shall set forth in detail in his request the reasons why the matters alleged in the petition,together with supporting affidavits or other written evidence and briefs or memoranda of legal authorities,will not permit the fair and expeditious disposition of the petition and,to the extent that such request for a hearing s dependent upon factual assertion,shall accompany such request by affidavit establishing such facts. In the event a hearing i ordered by the Commission, Hawai'i Revised Statutes. 411 Section 91-9,shall govern the proceedings. [Eff. 10-20-02) 203-1 §203-3 Applicabi litv of order. An order disposina of a petition shall be • applicable only to the factual situation described in the petition or set forth in the order. [Eff. 10-20-02] §203-4 Declaratory ruling on Commission's own motion. Notwithstanding the other provisions of th's part, the Commission may, on is own motion or upon request but without notice of hearing, issue a declaratory order to terminate a controversy or to remove uncertainty. [Eff. 10-20-02] §203-5 Refusal to issue declaratory order. The Commission may,forgood cause, refuse to issue a declaratory order with specific reasons for such determination.Without limiting the generality of the foregoing,the Commission may so refuse where: (a) the question 's speculative or purely hypothetical and does not involve existing facts, or facts that can be expected to exist in the near future; (b) the petitioner's interest "s not of the type that would give him standing to maintain an action if he were to seek judicial relief; (c) the "ssuance of the declaratory order may affect the interests of the Commission in a litigation that s pending or may reasonably be expected to arise; or (d) the matter 's not within the jurisd fiction of the Commission. [Eff. 10-20-02] • • 203-2