HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-12-06 Liquor Commission MinutesCOUNTY OF HAWAII
DEPARTMENT OF LIQUOR CONTROL
LIQUOR COMMISSION
December 6, 2018
HILO LAGOON CENTRE, 101 AUPUNI STREET, UNIT 230, HILO, HAWAII
I. Call To Order
The meeting was called to order by Chair Art Taniguchi at 10:00 A.M., in the
Meeting Room, Department of Liquor Control, Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street,
Unit 230, Hilo, Hawaii.
The following were present and constituted a quorum:
Commissioners:
Art Taniguchi, Chair
Shelby Nahale-a, Vice Chair
Warren Arakaki, Commissioner
David Greenwell, Commissioner
Michael Hughes, Commissioner
Stephen Lopez, Commissioner
Claude Onizuka, Commissioner
Dawn Raymond, Commissioner
Allen Salave`a, Commissioner
Absent and Excused: None
Others Present:
Gerald Takase, Director
Brandon Gonzalez, Administrative Officer
Craig Masuda, Deputy Corporation Counsel
Gail Fujimoto, Licensing Officer
Stacie Waltjen, Licensing Tech.
Dorsi Lim, Secretary to the Board & Commission
Taniguchi: I'd like to call this meeting of the Liquor Commission to order. Welcome to
our last meeting of the year 2018. I'd like to ask everyone to put their phones on vibrate
or silent. Let's start off with introductions.
Fujimoto: Gail Fujimoto, Licensing Officer.
Lim: Dorsi Lim, Secretary.
Salave`a: Allen Salave'a, Commissioner.
Lopez: Steve Lopez, Commissioner.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 1
Greenwell: David Greenwell, District 9 Commissioner.
Raymond: Dawn Raymond, Commissioner.
Masuda: Craig Masuda, Commission Counsel.
Taniguchi: Art Taniguchi, Commissioner.
Nahale-a: Shelby Nahale-a, Commissioner.
Onizuka: Claude Onizuka, Commissioner.
Hughes: Mike Hughes, Commissioner.
Arakaki: Warren Arakaki, Commissioner.
Takase: Gerald Takase, Director.
Waltjen: Good morning. Stacie Waltjen, Licensing Tech.
Gonzalez: Good morning. Brandon Gonzalez, Administrative Officer.
II. Approval of Minutes
Taniguchi: Thank you very much. November 1, 2018, minutes have been circulated
by email. May I have a motion to accept?
Nahale-a: So move.
Salave`a: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to approve the November 1, 2018, Liquor
Commission Minutes as circulated; seconded by Mr. Salave`a.
Taniguchi: It's been moved and seconded. Any discussion?
There was no discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 2
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
III. Approval of Addendum and/or Supplemental Agenda
Taniguchi: Do we have any changes to the agenda?
There were no changes to the agenda.
IV. Public Statements on Agenda Items
Taniguchi: Do we have any public statements on anything on the agenda?
There were no public statements on the agenda.
V. Public Hearings
Taniguchi: Public Hearings, Item No. 1, Application No. 18-10, Wong Yuen Store LLC,
dba Wong Yuen Store, for an original Retail General liquor license.
1. Application No. 18-10 (10:04 A.M.)
Wong Yuen Store LLC, dba Wong Yuen Store, for an original Retail
General liquor license, located at 95-6049 Mamalahoa Highway,
Na`alehu, Hawaii, TMK: 9-5-001:009.
Ryan Kanaka`ole, Member/Manager, was present.
Taniguchi: Good morning
Kanaka`ole: Good morning, Commissioners. Ryan Kanaka`ole, Member and
Manager of Wong Yuen Store.
Taniguchi: Did you read the report?
Kanaka`ole: Yes.
Taniguchi: Are there any changes?
Kanaka`ole: No.
Taniguchi: Can you briefly describe your business?
Kanaka`ole: Yes. My great, great grandfather bought the property in 1935, and we
held the store until recently. We operated it until 2005, then we handed it off
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 3
to an operator and we were leasing the property out until last year when the business
closed doors. We've taken on the property again, and we're trying to re -open the
convenience store in Wai`ohinu.
Taniguchi: Director, were there any protests?
Takase: Mr. Chairman, the applicant mailed eight out of eight notices within 100 feet,
and 27 out of 27 notices within 500 feet. There were 25 properties entitled to protest,
and there were no protests to this application.
Taniguchi: Is there any public testimony on this application?
There was no public testimony.
Taniguchi: Commissioners, any questions?
Kanaka`ole: We've had a delay due to termite damage we found when we were taking
off the siding to the property, the aluminum siding on the old store. We had to pull a
building permit, and have since retained a design professional and we are submitting
the application now. It will probably be delayed until springtime at the earliest.
Taniguchi: It will be good to see Wong Yuen Store open again.
Kanaka`ole: Yes. There's a need in the community. Currently, there's only a Wiki Wiki
Mart in Na`alehu. The Island Market closed a couple of years ago, so there's not really
any stores there to serve the community.
Taniguchi: Can I have a motion?
Nahale-a: Move to close public hearing.
Salave`a: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to close the public hearing; seconded
by Mr. Salave`a.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any other discussion?
There was no other discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor of closing public hearing signify by saying,
"Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Those opposed, "Nay."
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 4
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Nahale-a: Move to approve Application No. 18-10, pending final inspection.
Greenwell: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to approve Application No. 18-10, Wong Yuen
Store LLC, dba Wong Yuen Store, for an original Retail General
liquor license, located at 95-6049 Mamalahoa Highway, Na`alehu,
Hawai`i, TMK: 9-5-001:009, pending final inspection; seconded
by Mr. Greenwell.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any other discussion?
There was no other discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor of closing public hearing signify by saying,
"Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Those opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Taniguchi: Thank you very much. Item No. 2, Application No. T18-11, Pacific Aqua
Beverages, LLC, dba Mehana Brewing, for a sale and transfer of the Manufacturer Beer
liquor license, currently held by DeMare Enterprises, Inc., dba Hawaii Nui Brewing.
2. Application No. T18-11 (10:06 A.M.)
Pacific Aqua Beverages, LLC, dba Mehana Brewing, for a sale and
transfer of the Manufacturer Beer liquor license, currently held by
DeMare Enterprises, Inc., dba Hawaii Nui Brewing, located at
275 East Kawili Street, Hilo, Hawaii, TMK: 2-2-050:006.
Newton Chu, Esq. and Scott Thompson, General Manager, were
present.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 5
Chu: Good morning, Chair Taniguchi and members of the Commission. Happy
holidays to all of you. I'm Newton Chu on behalf of the applicant. To my right is
Scott Thompson, General Manager. There are no changes to the investigator's report.
Taniguchi: Director, is there any protest?
Takase: Mr. Chairman, this is a transfer application. Publication was made and there
were no protests to the application.
Taniguchi: Is there any public testimony on this application?
There was no public testimony.
Taniguchi: Commissioners, any questions?
Nahale-a: Move to close public hearing.
Greenwell: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a move to close the public hearing; seconded by
Mr. Greenwell.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any other discussion?
There was no other discussion.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor of closing public hearing signify by saying,
"Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Those opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Nahale-a: Move to approve Application No. T18-11, pending final inspection.
Hughes: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to approve Application No. T18-11, Pacific
Aqua Beverages, LLC, dba Mehana Brewing, for a sale and transfer
of the Manufacturer Beer liquor license, currently held by DeMare
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 6
Enterprises, Inc., dba Hawaii Nui Brewing, located at 275 East Kawili
Street, Hilo, Hawaii, TMK: 2-2-050:006, pending final inspection;
seconded by Mr. Hughes.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any other discussion?
There was no other discussion.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor of closing public hearing signify by saying,
"Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Those opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Chu: Thank you very much.
Thompson: Thank you.
VI. Preliminary Hearings
Taniguchi: Item No. 6, Preliminary Hearings, Application No. 18-12, Pele's Wok Bistro
& Bar LLC, dba Pele's Wok Bistro & Bar, for an original Restaurant General liquor
license, Category B1.
1. Application No. 18-12 (10:08 A.M.)
Pele's Wok Bistro & Bar LLC, dba Pele's Wok Bistro & Bar, for an
original Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at The
Shops at Mauna Lani, 68-1330 Mauna Lani Drive, Suite #108, Kamuela,
Hawaii, TMK: 6-8-022:002.
James Babian, Member/Owner, and Patrick Armaza, General
Manager, were present.
Taniguchi: Welcome. Have you read the report?
Babian: Yes.
Taniguchi: Are there any changes to the report?
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 7
Babian: No, no changes.
Taniguchi: Can you briefly describe the business?
Babian: We currently own an Italian restaurant, Pueo Osteria. It's a farm to table type
restaurant and my chef has been with me for 12 years. He's Chinese and he says that
my passion is cooking, my obsession is Chinese food. If we make five good years, we'll
look for a Chinese place. We are going to take the same concept of a farm to table type
of approach to a small restaurant and apply it to Chinese food. There is no Chinese
food anywhere in the Waikoloa area; you have to go to Waimea or Kona. We feel there
is a need for it. It's a casual, approachable priced farm to table restaurant. We are
going to start with just dinner. The hours will be 4:00 P.M. to try to catch the industry
people, the workers on premises, and then seat until 9:00 or 10:00 P.M., no late night.
We will eventually open with counter service at lunchtime.
Taniguchi: Is there any public testimony on this application?
There was no public testimony.
Taniguchi: Commissioners, any questions?
Gonzalez: I have a question. Mr. Babian, you just said you were going to open with
only dinner service first and in the end you will eventually do ...?
Babian: We're going to add a counter service style lunch where we'll have a steam
table.
Gonzalez: When do you plan to open?
Babian: For dinner, December 18, 2018.
Gonzalez: Thank you.
Babian: You're welcome.
Onizuka: Move to approve Application No. 18-12, public hearing to be held on
February 7, 2018, in Hilo.
Nahale-a: Second.
Mr. Onizuka moved to approve Application No. 18-12, Pele's Wok
Bistro & Bar LLC, dba Pele's Wok Bistro & Bar, for an original
Restaurant General liquor license, Category B1, located at The
Shops at Mauna Lani, 68-1330 Mauna Lani Drive, Suite #108,
Kamuela, Hawaii, TMK: 6-8-022:002, if approved, public hearing
to be held on February 7, 2018, in Hilo; seconded by Ms. Nahale-a.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 8
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any other discussion?
There was no other discussion.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor of closing public hearing signify by saying,
"Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Those opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried. Thank you very much.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Babian: Thank you. We would like to thank Gail for all the guidance and assistance
with this process.
Taniguchi: Item No. 2, Application No. 18-13, Maruhiro Enterprise Co., Ltd.,
dba Shiono at Mauna Lani, Restaurant General liquor license, Category A, for a Change
of Location to The Shops at Mauna Lani.
2. Application No. 18-13 (10:10 A.M.)
Maruhiro Enterprise Co., Ltd., dba Shiono at Mauna Lani, Restaurant
General liquor license, Category A, for a Change of Location to The
Shops at Mauna Lani, located at 68-1330 Mauna Lani Drive, Suite 111,
Kamuela, Hawaii, TMK: 6-8-022:002.
Yuka Kawakami, Office and Operations Manager, was present.
Kawakami: Good morning.
Taniguchi: Good morning.
Kawakami: My name is Yuka Kawakami. I am the Office and Operations Manager.
Taniguchi: Thank you. Have you seen your report?
Kawakami: Yes.
Taniguchi: Any changes?
Kawakami: No.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 9
Taniguchi: Can you briefly describe your business?
Kawakami: We are a sushi and Japanese cuisine restaurant currently operating at the
Mauna Lani Resort Golf Clubhouse and planning to move to The Shops at Mauna Lani,
second floor. We are planning to open on December 15, 2018. We need to keep the
current restaurant until December 31, 2018, based on the lease. We are going to open
on the 15th at the new location, so we would like to have a temporary license to open
only for dinner.
Taniguchi: Is there any public testimony on this application?
There was no public testimony.
Taniguchi: Commissioners, any questions?
Salave`e: I have a general question. You will have three locations with the other
location moving?
Kawakami: Currently, we have three locations. We have two locations with liquor
licenses, Kona and Mauna Lani. Mauna Lani Clubhouse is moving to The Shops (at
Mauna Lani). The Clubhouse will still be open until December 31St. We will close it
completely and operate at The Shops. But we need to open at The Shops on
December 15th
Salave`a: Okay, thank you.
Taniguchi: Any other questions? I have one. Where is this moving to? Upstairs?
Kawakami: Upstairs, between Tommy Bahama's and Ruth's Chris, where Monstera
used to be.
Taniguchi: Where Monstera was? Monstera moved out?
Kawakami: They moved out.
Takase: They lost their lease.
Taniguchi: Oh. It's by the Visitors Bureau office, right?
Kawakami: Yes.
Taniguchi: Any other questions?
There were no other questions from the Commissioners.
Masuda: Gerald, you're going to give them a temporary license since the next meeting
is in February?
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 10
Takase: Yes. They're going to move their current license to The Shops at Mauna Lani
at the end of the month, but there was an overlap. In order to accommodate them to be
open on the 15th, we will give them a temporary license there. They'll be running the
two sides at the same time.
Kawakami: Golf course, only lunch.
Taniguchi: But no liquor?
Takase: No, with liquor.
Kawakami: With liquor. At the golf course.
Takase: Both sides. They'll still have a license at the golf course.
Nahale-a: So the temporary just covers that two-week period that it transfers from one
place to the next?
Takase: Yes. The temporary one will be at the Monstera location.
Taniguchi: The golf course restaurant will stay open for lunch after the 31St?
Takase: Mauna Lani is going to take back the golf course, but they're not ready to go
(inaudible).
Taniguchi: I see. Shiono's will just close there.
Kawakami: Yes.
Masuda: But we'll get the application in January? The application for the temporary,
right?
Taniguchi: It'll come at the next meeting.
Masuda: Just want to make it clear.
Nahale-a: Move to approve Application No. 18-13, if approved, public hearing to be
held on February 7, 2018, in Hilo, Hawaii.
Onizuka: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to approve Application No. 18-13,
Maruhiro Enterprise Co., Ltd., dba Shiono at Mauna Lani,
Restaurant General liquor license, Category A, for a
Change of Location to The Shops at Mauna Lani, located at
68-1330 Mauna Lani Drive, Suite 111, Kamuela, Hawaii,
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 11
TMK: 6-8-022:002, if approved, public hearing to be held on
February 7, 2018, in Hilo, Hawaii; seconded by Mr. Onizuka.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any other discussion?
There was no other discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "aye."
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried. Thank you.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Kawakami: Thank you. Happy holidays.
Taniguchi: Item No. 3, Application No. 18-14, JKL & Associates, LLC, dba E Komo Mai
Diner Bar & Grill, Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, for a Change in Class
to a Class 11, Cabaret liquor license and Change of Location to 1550 Kamehameha
Avenue, Hilo.
3. Application No. 18-14 (10:14 A.M.)
JKL & Associates, LLC, dba E Komo Mai Diner Bar & Grill, Dispenser
General liquor license, Category B2, for a Change in Class to a Class 11,
Cabaret liquor license and Change of Location to 1550 Kamehameha
Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii, TMK: 2-2-032:010.
Jalyn K. Like, Manager/Owner, was present.
Like: Good morning.
Taniguchi: Can you identify yourself and your relationship to the business, please?
Like: I'm Jalyn K. Like. I'm the owner of JKL & Associates, dba E Komo Mai Diner Bar
& Grill.
Taniguchi: Have you read the report?
Like: Yes, I have.
Taniguchi: Are there any changes?
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 12
Like: No.
Taniguchi: Can you briefly describe your business?
Like: We have a restaurant and a bar that we are currently, actually we just moved in
on the first.
Takase: Mr. Chairman, E Komo Mai was running at the old Morning Dew. She recently
moved to Coqui's location. She's taking over for Elaine (Nakatani). They are a
restaurant and bar and they are also asking for a cabaret license.
Taniguchi: There's no one here to give public testimony.
There was no public testimony.
Taniguchi: Commissioners, any questions?
Nahale-a: I have a question. The license carries the whole premises, the bar and
restaurant?
Like: Correct.
Takase: Yes.
Salave`a: So what will become of E Komo Mai? It'll continue operating?
Like: Which one? 340 Kuawa?
Salave`a: Yes.
Like: They're done. It's a U -Haul now. That's why I had to find another location.
Salave`a: I see, thank you.
Taniguchi: Any other questions?
There were no other questions from the Commissioners.
Nahale-a: Move to approve Application No. 18-14, if approved, public hearing to be
held on February 7, 2018, in Hilo, Hawaii.
Onizuka: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to approve Application No. 18-14,
JKL & Associates, LLC, dba E Komo Mai Diner Bar & Grill,
Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, for a Change
in Class to a Class 11, Cabaret liquor license and Change of
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 13
Location to 1550 Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii,
TMK: 2-2-032:010, if approved, public hearing to be held on
February 7, 2018, in Hilo, Hawaii; seconded by Mr. Onizuka.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any other discussion?
There was no other discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Those opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried. Thank you very much.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Like: Thank you.
Gonzalez: Excuse me, just a quick note. Did you say 2018, February, or 2019?
Nahale-a: Shall I restate (the motion)?
Masuda: Yes, please do it again.
Nahale-a: Move to approve Application No. 18-14, if approved, public hearing to be
held on February 7, 2019, in Hilo.
Taniguchi: Motion was seconded.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to approve Application No. 18-14,
JKL & Associates, LLC, dba E Komo Mai Diner Bar & Grill,
Dispenser General liquor license, Category B2, for a Change
in Class to a Class 11, Cabaret liquor license and Change of
Location to 1550 Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii,
TMK: 2-2-032:010, if approved, public hearing to be held on
February 7, 2019, in Hilo, Hawaii; seconded by Mr. Onizuka.
Taniguchi: All those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 14
Taniguchi: Motion carried. Thank you. Sorry about that.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Like: Thank you.
Masuda: Mr. Chairman, if we can make one general correction? For all matters
contained on today's agenda, anything that was set for February would be February
2019.
Taniguchi: Can I have a motion?
Nahale-a: So move.
Onizuka: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved that all matters contained on the
December 6, 2018, agenda that were set for February,
be corrected to February 2019; seconded by Mr. Onizuka.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. All those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Those opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried. Thanks, Brandon.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Salave`a: Thank you, Brandon.
Taniguchi: Item No. 4, Application No. T18-15, Kona Beach Hotel Management, LLC,
dba Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, for a sale and
transfer of the Hotel liquor license, currently held by IWF KKH, LLC, dba Courtyard by
Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel.
4. Application No. T18-15 (10:19 A.M.)
Kona Beach Hotel Management, LLC, dba Courtyard by Marriott King
Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, for a sale and transfer of the Hotel
liquor license, currently held by IWF KKH, LLC, dba Courtyard by Marriott
King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, located at 75-5660 Palani Road,
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, TMKs: 7-5-006:020, 021, 024, 032, and
7-5-005:062, 066, 075.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 15
Robert Ueoka, Esq., on behalf of Kona Beach Hotel Management,
LLC, was present.
Taniguchi: Good morning.
Ueoka: Good morning, Mr. Chair and members of the Commission, and Mr. Takase.
I'm Robert Ueoka on behalf of Kona Beach Hotel Management, LLC. At this time, we
have no changes to the investigator's report. I just want to mention the temporary liquor
license did not issue on November 27 because we postponed the closing. We are
looking at December 27, 2018. A tough time for a closing with Christmas and New
Years, so we'll see if that really happens. It's what I've been told. This is the same
hotel as where the State Conference was held in October 2017, so many of us are
familiar with the property. I also want to mention that Jak Hu could not make it here
today, he's out of town. He's the general manager. He's very familiar with the
Commission but could not make it today and he apologizes for not being here. I will
make sure he's here for the public hearing.
Taniguchi: There is no one here for public testimony.
There was no public testimony.
Taniguchi: Commissioners, any questions?
There were no questions from the Commissioners.
Nahale-a: Move to approve Application No. T18-15, if approved, public hearing to be
held on January 3, 2019, in Kona.
Onizuka: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to approve Application No. T18-15, Kona
Beach Hotel Management, LLC, dba Courtyard by Marriott King
Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, for a sale and transfer of the
Hotel liquor license, currently held by IWF KKH, LLC, dba Courtyard
by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, located at
75-5660 Palani Road, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, TMKs: 7-5-006:020, 021,
024, 032, and 7-5-005:062, 066, 075, if approved, public hearing to be
held on January 3, 2019, in Kona, Hawaii; seconded by Mr. Onizuka.
Taniguchi: Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any other discussion?
There was no other discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 16
Taniguchi: Those opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Ueoka: Thank you so much.
Taniguchi: Thank you very much.
VII. Unfinished Business
Taniguchi: There's no unfinished business.
VIII. New Business
Taniguchi: Item No. 1, O&J LLC, dba Waikoloa Restaurant and Bar, ratification of
Amended Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises to the Banquet
Room, for event on October 28, 2018.
1. O&J LLC, dba Waikoloa Restaurant and Bar, ratification of
Amended Application for Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises
to the Banquet Room, for event on October 28, 2018, approved by
Director Gerald Takase on October 25, 2018, to its Restaurant liquor
license, Category B2, located at 68-1790 Melia Street, Waikoloa, Hawaii.
Greenwell: Move to ratify.
Raymond: Second.
Mr. Greenwell moved to ratify the Amended Application for
Temporary Increase in Licensed Premises to the Banquet Room,
for event on October 28, 2018, submitted by O&J LLC, dba Waikoloa
Restaurant and Bar, approved by Director Gerald Takase on October
25, 2018, to its Restaurant liquor license, Category B2, located at
68-1790 Melia Street, Waikoloa, Hawaii; seconded by Ms. Raymond.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any discussion?
There was no discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 17
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Taniguchi: Item No. 2, Hawaiian Food Services Group L.L.C., dba Kaimu Korner
Store, ratification of request to extend hours of business on December 31, 2018.
2. Hawaiian Food Services Group L.L.C., dba Kaimu Korner Store,
ratification of request to extend hours of business on December 31, 2018,
submitted on October 30, 2018, approved by Director Gerald Takase on
October 30, 2018.
Nahale-a: Move to ratify.
Raymond: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to ratify the request to extend hours of business
on December 31, 2018, submitted by Hawaiian Food Services Group
L.L.C., dba Kaimu Korner Store, on October 30, 2018, approved by
Director Gerald Takase on October 30, 2018; seconded by
Ms. Raymond.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any discussion?
There was no discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Taniguchi: Item No. 3, Kona, Hawaii, Lodge No. 2616, Benevolent & Protective Order
of Elks of the United States of America, dba Kona Elks Club, ratification of Application
for Game Permit for Texas Hold'em Dinner on November 19, 2018, and January 14,
2019.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 18
3. Kona, Hawaii, Lodge No. 2616, Benevolent & Protective Order
of Elks of the United States of America, dba Kona Elks Club,
ratification of Application for Game Permit for Texas Hold'em Dinner
on November 19, 2018, and January 14, 2019, approved by Director
Gerald Takase on October 31, 2018, to its Club liquor license, Category
B2, located at 74-5596 Pawai Place, Bays M and N, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Nahale-a: Move to ratify.
Onizuka: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to ratify the Application for Game Permit for
Texas Hold'em Dinner on November 19, 2018, and January 14, 2019,
submitted by Kona, Hawaii, Lodge No. 2616, Benevolent & Protective
Order of Elks of the United States of America, dba Kona Elks Club,
approved by Director Gerald Takase on October 31, 2018, to its Club
liquor license, Category B2, located at 74-5596 Pawai Place, Bays M
and N, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii; seconded by Mr. Onizuka.
Lopez: (10:21 A.M.) Chairman? I recuse myself from voting on all elements regarding
Kona Elks Lodge 2616.
Taniguchi: Mr. Lopez has recused himself from voting on all items pertaining to Lodge
No. 2616.
Takase: Have you ever gone to any one of these?
Lopez: No.
Taniguchi: We had a motion and second. All those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Taniguchi: Item No. 4, Kona, Hawaii, Lodge No. 2616, Benevolent & Protective
Order of Elks of the United States of America, dba Kona Elks Club, acceptance
of the Personal History and Affidavit received on November 7, 2018, for
Doris Merrily Sechrist Bass, Trustee, effective April 1, 2018.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 19
4. Kona, Hawaii, Lodge No. 2616, Benevolent & Protective Order
of Elks of the United States of America, dba Kona Elks Club,
acceptance of the Personal History and Affidavit received on
November 7, 2018, for Doris Merrily Sechrist Bass, Trustee, effective
April 1, 2018, to its Club liquor license, Category B2, located at
74-5596 Pawai Place, Bays M and N, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Nahale-a: Move to accept.
Onizuka: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to accept the Personal History and Affidavit
received on November 7, 2018, for Doris Merrily Sechrist Bass,
Trustee, effective April 1, 2018, submitted by Kona, Hawaii, Lodge
No. 2616, Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks of the United States
of America, dba Kona Elks Club, to its Club liquor license, Category
B2, located at 74-5596 Pawai Place, Bays M and N, Kailua-Kona,
Hawai`i; seconded by Mr. Onizuka.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any discussion?
There was no discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Taniguchi: Item No. 5, Kona, Hawaii, Lodge No. 2616, Benevolent & Protective Order
of Elks of the United States of America, dba Kona Elks Club, acceptance of the
Personal History and Affidavit received on November 7, 2018, for John Kenneth Burge,
Acting Esteemed Loyal Knight effective July 26, 2018, to complete the term through
March 31, 2019.
5. Kona, Hawaii, Lodge No. 2616, Benevolent & Protective Order
of Elks of the United States of America, dba Kona Elks Club,
acceptance of the Personal History and Affidavit received on
November 7, 2018, for John Kenneth Burge, Acting Esteemed
Loyal Knight effective July 26, 2018, to complete the term through
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 20
March 31, 2019, to its Club liquor license, Category B2, located at
74-5596 Pawai Place, Bays M and N, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Nahale-a: Move to accept.
Greenwell: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to accept the Personal History and Affidavit
received on November 7, 2018, for John Kenneth Burge, Acting
Esteemed Loyal Knight effective July 26, 2018, to complete the term
through March 31, 2019, to its Club liquor license, Category B2,
located at 74-5596 Pawai Place, Bays M and N, Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i;
seconded by Mr. Greenwell.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any discussion?
There was no discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Taniguchi: Item No. 6, Richard Nobles Umiat, ratification of Application for Individual
Importation of Liquor Permit, for 90 liters of wine and 12 liters of whiskey, as household
goods.
6. Richard Nobles Umiat, ratification of Application for Individual
Importation of Liquor Permit, for 90 liters of wine and 12 liters of
whiskey, as household goods, approved by Administrative Officer
Brandon Gonzalez on November 16, 2018.
Masuda: Mr. Chair? If we may have Mr. Lopez come back from his recusal?
Taniguchi: (10:23 A.M.) Yes. Mr. Lopez is back and able to vote.
Nahale-a: Move to ratify.
Raymond: Second.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 21
Ms. Nahale-a moved to ratify the Application for Individual
Importation of Liquor Permit, for 90 liters of wine and
12 liters of whiskey, as household goods, submitted by
Richard Nobles Umiat, approved by Administrative Officer
Brandon Gonzalez on November 16, 2018; seconded by
Ms. Raymond.
Taniguchi: Discussion? Who is this person?
Gonzalez: Just a person that was moving here from Germany. It's his personal
collection of wines and whiskeys.
Taniguchi: No other discussion?
There was no other discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Taniguchi: Item No. 7, VJL Enterprises LLC, dba Longboard Legends Pizza, approval
of Application for Change to Class 2, Restaurant license, Category B1, to its Dispenser
Beer and Wine liquor license, Category B1.
7. VJL Enterprises LLC, dba Longboard Legends Pizza, approval
of Application for Change to Class 2, Restaurant license, Category B1,
to its Dispenser Beer and Wine liquor license, Category B1, located
at the Alii Plaza, 75-5742 Kuakini Highway, Building A, Unit 102,
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Nahale-a: I move to approve application.
Onizuka: Second.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Discussion?
Masuda: Gerald, what are they doing here?
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 22
Takase: They are going from a dispenser to a restaurant, so all they have to do is meet
the requirements of a restaurant.
Taniguchi: So that's a step up?
Takase: It's more of a lateral step. Most of our dispenser licensees meet the
Restaurant class. To try and combat the bars, restrictions were added to the Dispenser
General license. When you transfer out, you always had to go through publication and
mailings which made it more difficult. With most of our licensees that have some
restaurant component, we try to let them know that it's probably to their advantage to
move out of the Dispenser General class to the Restaurant class, which most of them
could qualify and have done.
Taniguchi: Mr. Greenwell?
Greenwell: If you are urging them to go into the Restaurant class, will you do away
eventually with the Dispenser class?
Takase: No, because we still have some dispensers that are primarily still bars. Rather
than dealing with it on their own, Honolulu went to the Legislature to change the law to
deal with Korean bars which are also dying out now. The qualifications for a Dispenser
General are much more onorous, so we are recommending to our licensees, especially
the ones that are restaurants, to go into the Restaurant class. It will be easier for them
in the long run. It's problematic with two sets of laws. Rather than to deal with it locally,
they've been going to the Legislature lately. That's the same problem they have on
Maui. From this last legislative session because of Maui's resistance to work with the
special permits licensees, the Legislature changed everything including knocking out all
fees. We don't get any fees from special licenses anymore. We weren't happy about
that.
Taniguchi: Any further discussion?
There was no further discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 23
Taniguchi: (10:29 A.M.) Item No. 8, Special Licenses issued for ratification. May
we have a motion for ratification of Special Licenses, Application No. SP -18-40 to
SP -18-49, Item No. 8(a) to 8(j)?
Nahale-a: Move to ratify.
Greenwell: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to ratify the following Special Licenses:
8. Special Licenses issued for ratification
a. Application SP -18-40, Hilo Medical Center Foundation,
dba Hilo Medical Center Foundation, for a Special Beer and
Wine liquor license, on November 3, 2018, at the Hilo Hawaiian
Hotel, 71 Banyan Drive, Hilo, Hawai'i.
b. Application SP -18-41, Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization,
dba Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization, for a Special
Beer and Wine liquor license, on November 3, 2018, at the Red
Barn behind Parker Ranch Soccer Field, 66-1304 Hawai'i Belt
Road, Kamuela, Hawaii.
c. Application SP -18-42, The Friends of the Palace Theater,
dba The Friends of the Palace Theater, for a Special Beer and
Wine liquor license, on November 2 and 15, 2018, at the Palace
Theater Lobby, 38 Haili Street, Hilo, Hawaii.
d. Application SP -18-43, Kona Dance and Performing Arts, Inc.,
dba Kona Dance and Performing Arts, Inc., for a Special Beer
liquor license, on November 10, 2018, in Kona Brewing Co., LLC's
parking lot, 74-5617 Pawai Place, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
e. Application SP -18-44, Aloha Performing Arts Company,
dba Aloha Theatre, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license,
on November 10, 2018, at the Aloha Theatre Building,
79-7384 Mamalahoa Highway, Kainaliu, Hawaii.
f. Application SP -18-45, The Food Basket Inc., dba Hawaii Island's
Food Bank, for a Special General liquor license, on November 17,
2018, at the Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii, One North Kaniku Drive,
Kohala Coast, Hawaii.
g.
Application SP -18-46, Holualoa Foundation for Arts and Culture,
dba Donkey Mill Art Center, for a Special Beer and Wine liquor
license, on November 15, 2018, at the Donkey Mill Art Center,
78-6670 Mamalahoa Highway, Holualoa, Hawaii.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 24
h. Application SP -18-47, Ku'ikahi Mediation Center, Inc.,
dba Ku'ikahi Mediation Center, for a Special General liquor
license, on November 11, 2018, at the Nani Mau Gardens
Banquet Hall, 421 Makalika Street, Hilo, Hawaii.
i. Application SP -18-48, Hospice of Hilo, dba Hospice of Hilo,
for a Special Beer and Wine liquor license, on December 10, 2018,
at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, 71 Banyan Drive, Hilo, Hawai'i.
J•
Application SP -18-49, Waikoloa Dry Forest Initiative Inc.,
dba Waikoloa Dry Forest Initiative Inc., for a Special Beer and
Wine liquor license, on November 25, 2018, at the Waikoloa
Stables, 68-1936 Waikoloa Road, Waikoloa, Hawaii.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Salave`a.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any discussion?
There was no discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Taniguchi: (10:29 A.M.) Item No. 9, Transient Vessel Licenses issued for ratification.
Can I have a motion to ratify Transient Vessel License, Application No. TV -18-31 to
TV -18-39, Item No. 9(a) to 9(i)?
Nahale-a: Move to ratify.
Greenwell: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to ratify the following Transient Vessel Licenses:
9. Transient Vessel Licenses issued for ratification
a. Application No. TV -18-31, Holland America Line N.V.,
dba MS Eurodam, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 25
at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on February 9 and 26, 2019;
March 16, 2019; and April 23, 2019.
b. Application No. TV -18-32, Holland America Line N.V.,
dba MS Eurodam, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port
at Kailua Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on February 13, 2019;
March 2, 2019; and April 22, 2019.
c. Application No. TV -18-33, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd.,
dba Star Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port
at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on April 4, 2019.
d. Application No. TV -18-34, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd.,
dba Sea Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port
at Kona Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on April 25, 2019.
e. Application No. TV -18-35, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd.,
dba Sea Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port
at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on April 26, 2019.
f. Application No. TV -18-36, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd.,
dba Ruby Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port
at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on March 29, 2019; and April 13,
2019.
g.
Application No. TV -18-37, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd.,
dba Grand Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port
at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on February 1, 2019; and April 11
and 27, 2019.
h. Application No. TV -18-38, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd.,
dba Golden Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in port
at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on April 29, 2019.
i. Application No. TV -18-39, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd.,
dba Emerald Princess, for a Transient Vessel liquor license, in
port at Hilo Harbor, Hilo, Hawaii, on January 11 and 23, 2019;
February 10, 2019; and March 1 and 17, 2019.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Greenwell.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any discussion?
There was no discussion from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, all those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 26
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Taniguchi: (10:31 A.M.) Item No. 10, Election of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson for
the next year 2019. Do we have any nominations?
Onizuka: Mr. Chair, I nominate Shelby Nahale-a as our Chair for 2019, and Commissioner
Greenwell as Vice Chair for the year 2019.
Raymond: Second.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. Any other nominations?
There were no other nominations from the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Since none, call for the question. All those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried. Thank you very much. Congratulations both of you.
The motion was carried unanimously.
IX. Announcements
Meetings of Liquor Commission
Taniguchi: Next meeting will be on January 3, 2019, in Kona?
Takase: Yes.
Taniguchi: So it will be in Kona and February 7, 2019, will be in Hilo.
Taniguchi: Prior to adjournment, I would like to thank everybody for their hard work this
last year. This is my last year. The five years went by really fast. I think Mr. Lopez's
term expires, too.
Lopez: This is my last year, too.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 27
Lopez: This is my last year, too.
Taniguchi: Thank you, everybody, the office team...
Takase: You both will carry over for three months.
Taniguchi: Hopefully they'll appoint someone by next month. But anyway, thank you
very much for all your hard work.
Lopez: As for me, thank you. It's been a really good ride. I've enjoyed this immensely
and I'm sorry my term is ending. I've enjoyed meeting all of you and working with you.
Thank you.
X. Adjournment
Taniguchi: (10:33 A.M.) Can we have a motion to adjourn?
Nahale-a: Move to adjourn.
Hughes: Second.
Ms. Nahale-a moved to adjourn; seconded by Mr. Hughes.
Taniguchi: Moved and seconded. All those in favor signify by saying, "Aye."
The Commissioners voted "Aye."
Taniguchi: Opposed, "Nay."
There was no opposition by the Commissioners.
Taniguchi: Motion carried.
The motion was carried unanimously.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:33 A.M.
erald Takase
Director
The December 6, 2018, Liquor Commission minutes were approved as
circulated via email/mail on December 27, 2018, by the Liquor Commission of
the County of Hawaii on January 3, 2019.
DECEMBER 6, 2018 - LIQUOR COMMISSION MINUTES 28