Public Meetings - Hawaii County, Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council held its 45th session on July 23, 2026, at the West Hawaii Civic Center in Kona. The meeting began at 9:04 a.m. and adjourned at 12:00 p.m., with all nine council members present. Key actions included approvals of various resolutions, passage of several bills, and a failed third-reading vote on Bill 165, a charter amendment regarding the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation (PONC) maintenance fund. The meeting also featured a certificate presentation honoring a police detective, and multiple public testimony periods. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the May 5, 2026 council meeting were deemed approved without amendment. - GOAC-144 (Communication 946): Nomination of Shauna Kalaukukui to the Cultural Resources Commission – confirmed unanimously (9-0). - GOAC-145 (Communication 947): Nomination of Jonathan Zeigner to the Hamakua Community Development Plan Action Committee – confirmed unanimously (9-0). Public Comments & Testimony Public testimony was heard on several agenda items, including Bill 165, Bills 125/126 (Pahoa zoning), and Resolutions 595, 607, and 608. - Bill 165 (PONC maintenance fund): Multiple testifiers expressed positions: - Susan Durston (Captain Cook) urged the council to vote against Bill 165 if meaningful changes could not be made, emphasizing the need for consistent and secure funding for nonprofit stewards. - Brenda Ford (District 6/7, former council member) argued that the word "shall" must be enforced as mandatory, citing Supreme Court rulings, and urged a vote against the bill. - Corey Hardin (via Zoom) supported the bill, stating that PONC "does not work without a well-designed and well-run maintenance fund." - Amadeo Markov (PONC Commissioner, speaking personally) expressed strong support for Bill 165, calling it a "modernization of the program" that provides a comprehensive stewardship framework. He also expressed strong support for Bills 125 and 126 (Pahoa village design). - Tim Rowan (President, Malama O Puna and Black Sands Community Association) supported Bill 165, noting the summit that led to the bill. - Eileen O'Hara (Executive Director, Malama O Puna) supported Bill 165, citing problems with the current stewardship program and the need for flexibility. - Sammy Stanbro (Hilo) opposed removing open space protections from the charter, recounting the grassroots history of the PONC program. - Deborah Ward (via Zoom) opposed Bill 165, arguing it was offered "in haste" and "guts the charter" without fixing underlying problems. - Susie Osborne (via Zoom) supported Bill 165, stating it does not weaken the maintenance fund but provides greater clarity. - Deborah Hecht (long-time PONC advocate) opposed the bill, presenting preferred amendments and warning that moving too much detail out of the charter could allow future councils or administrators to undermine the fund. - Resolutions 607/608 (grants to Malama O Puna): Testifiers supported the resolutions, highlighting the feral pig problem and the need to celebrate the preservation of Honolulu Landing. Discussion Items - Certificate Presentation: Detective John Kari (Juvenile Aid Section) was awarded the June 2026 Hubveil Award for his investigation and arrest of a Canadian adult male who traveled to Hawaii to meet a minor (under age 14) via an online gaming platform. The detective's actions led to a grand jury indictment for sexual assault and promoting child abuse. - Bill 168 (Rezoning, Kinaloli): The bill repeals several old ordinances to revert zoning from village commercial/multiple-family residential to double-family residential and agricultural on a 6.467-acre parcel. A motion to amend the bill to include affordable housing conditions (Communication 937.4) was withdrawn after Corporation Counsel advised that such a condition could raise legal issues related to takings and proportionality. The bill was amended to remove a section allowing conditions (Communication 937.2) and then approved at first reading (9-0). It was briefly tabled for clarification on title and survey, which was provided by the applicant. - Bill 165 (PONC Charter Amendment): Extensive debate occurred on the third and final reading. Key amendments were adopted: - Communication 915.7: Requires deposits into the maintenance fund "at least annually." - Communication 915.8: Requires a publicly available "itemized accounting of receipts and disbursements" and a "public notice of the annual opportunity for maintenance funds." Council members expressed divided views. Supporters argued the bill removes the outdated $3 million cap and provides needed flexibility, while opponents (Councilmembers Galimba, Connelly Kleinfelder, Kimball, and Kagiwada) cited insufficient community time to review, the lack of a companion code amendment, and concerns about moving details out of the charter. After a roll call vote, the bill failed 5-4 (Councilmembers Houstis, Kirkowitz, Onishi, Viegas, and Chair Inaba in favor; Councilmembers Galimba, Connelly Kleinfelder, Kimball, and Kagiwada opposed). Councilmember Kimball pledged to continue work on the issue if the bill does not pass on the ballot. - Bills 125 and 126 (Pahoa Village Design/Downtown District): Both bills were approved. Bill 125 clarifies duties and procedures for the Pahoa Design Review Committee. Bill 126 creates the Downtown Pahoa Commercial special district, a voluntary zoning designation to preserve the village's character while allowing compatible economic activity. Both bills passed with eight ayes (Councilmember Connelly Kleinfelder excused on Bill 125; Councilmember Vegas excused on Bill 126). - Bill 163 (Property Tax Dedication for Generational Lands): Approved on second and final reading (8-0-1, Councilmember Vegas excused). The bill establishes a new property tax dedication for certain properties owned by descendants of original owners (at least 100 years), subject to minimum tax. - Bill 164 (Housing Administrator Confirmation): Approved as amended (9-0). The amendment (Communication 914.4) adds a requirement that the mayor appoint the housing administrator within 30 days of taking office or within 60 days of a vacancy. - Resolutions 594, 595, 606, 607, 608: All approved unanimously (9-0) or as noted. - Resolution 594: Cooperative service agreement with USDA for wildlife damage management. - Resolution 595: Intergovernmental agreement with USDA NRCS for a conservation easement on the Keolo family 'loi (supporting Resolution 513-26). - Resolution 606: Grant to grassroots group for "For the Love Festival." - Resolution 607: Grant of $5,000 to Malama O Puna for the second annual "Smoke It Up Festival" (amended to move date to November 14). - Resolution 608: Grant of $2,500 to Ki Paipai O Mo'o Foundation for a ceremony honoring Honolulu Landing preservation. Key Outcomes - Bill 165 (PONC Charter Amendment): Failed on third and final reading. The vote was 5-4 in favor, falling short of the required two-thirds (6 votes). The measure will not advance to the ballot in its current form. - Bill 168 (Kinaloli Rezoning): Approved at first reading (9-0), after being amended to remove a conditions section. The bill will move to second reading. - Bills 125 and 126 (Pahoa Zoning): Approved on second and final reading, establishing new design guidelines and a voluntary downtown commercial district. - Bill 163 (Generational Property Tax): Approved on second and final reading, creating a new property tax dedication. - Bill 164 (Housing Administrator): Approved as amended on second and final reading, requiring council confirmation and setting appointment timelines. - Resolutions 594, 595, 606, 607, 608: All approved (unanimous or with minor amendments). - Executive Session: The council entered executive session to consult with Corporation Counsel on legal proceedings concerning Alan Fukamizu (Communication 957). A motion to accept the recommendation provided by Corporation Counsel was approved (9-0), and the file was closed. - Appointments: Shauna Kalaukukui (Cultural Resources Commission) and Jonathan Zeigner (Hamakua CDP Action Committee) were confirmed.

The 38th session of the Committee on Government Operations and External Affairs was held on July 22, 2026, at 9 a.m. in Kona Council Chambers, chaired by Councilmember Jen Kagiwada. The committee addressed three resolutions and two communications, including a discussion of the 2027 Hawaii State Association of Counties (HSAC) legislative package. All items were forwarded to the full council with unanimous support (9-0, with Councilmember Onishi absent for the first vote). Public Comments & Testimony - Shelley (representing International Task Forest of the Pacific) testified on Communication 954 and Resolution 602-26. She urged the county to exclude herbicide purchases from the legislative package, citing cancer risks to employees and high cancer rates on Hawaii Island. She stated that Hawaiian Homes has banned herbicides on its lands but noted spraying continues. She also advocated for increased funding for Hawaiian language schools. Additionally, she opposed ocean mining in U.S. waters, referencing 31 million acres under consideration by the Trump administration and warning of impacts to Hawaii’s fisheries as the closest coastal impact to the International Seabed Authority, 2,000 miles of seabed mining from Baja California to 350 nautical miles southeast of the Big Island. - Kavehi Young (Public Outreach Coordinator, Big Island Invasive Species Committee, BISC) testified in support of Resolution 603-26. She reported that BISC has conducted 32 training sessions on CRB compliance, reaching 177 people from over 25 entities. She cited a recent example where a nursery found a CRB breeding site and recovered 67 grubs. She requested a dedicated point of contact at the Department of Agriculture (DOA) on Hawaii Island to improve communication and enforcement. - Megan Lamson Leatherman (Hawaii Wildlife Fund) also testified in support of Resolution 603, emphasizing the need to enforce interim rule 26-1 to prevent the spread of coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB), which has been in the state for 13 years and is out of control on Oahu and Kauai. She noted that CRB attacks native loulu palms and over two dozen crop species. Discussion Items - Communication 954: HSAC Legislative Package Priorities: Councilmembers discussed priorities for the 2027 HSAC legislative package. Councilmember Nava will resubmit a bill banning aquarium fish trade. Councilmember Viegas advocated for banning herbicides, especially glyphosate. Councilmember Kleinfelder proposed requiring studies on renewable energy for government infrastructure. Councilmember Kirkowitz called for auditing business bureaucracy at DCCA and diversifying the economy. Councilmember Galimba asked for a watershed/flooding framework. Councilmember Hustis pushed for greater investment in watershed monitoring and engagement with DHHL on water infrastructure. Councilmember Kagiwada suggested urging DOH to increase behavioral health and substance abuse support on outer islands. Councilmember Kimball noted preemption concerns, data center land use, and the upcoming general excise tax renewal. She will compile these into a resolution for August. - Resolution 602-26: Intergovernmental Agreement with National Park Service: Authorizes the mayor to renew an agreement for joint fire protection at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Acting Fire Chief Daniel Volpe explained the agreement is a routine renewal with no material changes, though it now complies with a federal executive order on social rights. - Resolution 603-26: CRB Quarantine Enforcement: Urges the Department of Agriculture to fully implement interim rule 26-1. Jonathan Ho (Plant Quarantine Branch Manager) confirmed DOA has three staff in Kona, uses a complaint-driven approach, and is working with the Attorney General to identify violators. He noted DOA’s budget is 0.4% of the state budget. Councilmember Viegas questioned whether DOA received $40 million; Ho disputed that figure. Councilmember Kirkowitz noted the legislature had appropriated $20 million for biosecurity in 2024, but Governor Green cut it to $10 million. BISC supported the resolution and called for more direct funding to frontline organizations. - Resolution 605-26: Charter Amendment for County Auditor: Directs the county clerk to place Ordinance 26-47 on the 2026 general election ballot to clarify the county auditor’s powers over employees. Councilmember Inaba described it as a housekeeping measure. Key Outcomes - Communication 40.8: Motion to close file carried 8-0 (Councilmember Onishi absent). - Communication 954: Motion to close file carried 9-0. Councilmember Kimball will draft a resolution on HSAC priorities for August. - Resolution 602-26: Motion to forward to full council with favorable recommendation passed 9-0. - Resolution 603-26: Motion to forward to full council with favorable recommendation passed 9-0. - Resolution 605-26: Motion to forward to full council with favorable recommendation passed 9-0. All items were approved unanimously and will be heard by the full council at a later date.

The Communication Reports and Council Oversight Committee met on July 22, 2026, at 1:30 PM at the West Hawaii Civic Center. No public testimony was offered. The committee addressed two agenda items: the annual audit plan for fiscal year 2026-2027 and an informational presentation on community facilities districts (CFDs). Both communications were closed with votes. Discussion Item: Communication 963 – Annual Audit Plan for FY 2026-2027 County Auditor Claire McAdam presented the annual audit plan, noting that the office is currently tracking 99 recommendations from prior audits and is changing its follow-up process to provide more real-time reporting on implementation. She also highlighted ongoing investigations from the fraud, waste, and abuse hotline. Councilmember Viegas inquired about the timeline for the audit of the Department of Housing; Ms. McAdam stated that the audit is in progress with a target completion by the end of 2026, depending on document availability from grantees. Councilmember Kimball asked about the scope of a proposed audit of the DEM wastewater division; Ms. McAdam replied that the scope is still being determined and encouraged council members to provide input on areas of concern. Discussion Item: Communication 969 – Presentation on Community Facilities Districts Finance Director Diane Nakagawa, along with financial advisors Adam Bauer and Mindy Case from Fieldman, and bond counsel Brian Hirae from McCorriston Miller Mukai MacKinnon LLP, delivered a presentation on the process for establishing community facilities districts (CFDs). The presentation covered the definition of CFDs, benefits to the county, developers, and homeowners, the formation process including the review committee, public hearing and protest procedures, and the subsequent bond sale process. Councilmembers asked questions regarding public benefit determinations (with one member noting that the county’s only completed CFD involved site-specific wastewater infrastructure that did not directly benefit the broader public), treatment of non-votes in protest calculations, applicability of prevailing wage and procurement requirements, differences between CFDs and tax increment financing, the role of the Office of Housing and Community Development, and reasons for the limited use of CFDs in Hawaii County. The presenters noted that only one CFD has been completed in the county, citing economic factors and the complexity of the process. Key Outcomes - Communication 963 (annual audit plan) was closed with a vote of 9 in favor. - Communication 969 (CFD presentation) was closed with a vote of 8 in favor, with Councilmember Inaba excused. - No formal actions were taken beyond closing the files; the items were informational and received by the committee.

The committee convened at 11:32 a.m. at the West Hawaii Civic Center to discuss two bills: Bill 175 (modifying vacation rental registration procedures) and Bill 176 (establishing general plan amendment procedures). The meeting ended at approximately 12:17 p.m. after postponing Bill 176. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were listed. Public Comments & Testimony - No public testimony was offered or received for either agenda item. Discussion Items - Bill 175 (Transient Accommodations) – Councilmember Kimball introduced amendments to Ordinance 25-50, shifting registration responsibilities from the finance director to the planning director, exempting applications already submitted for special/use permits from new registration requirements, and directing registration fees into the STVR enforcement fund. A grace period for registration (September 1 to December 31, 2026) was created to allow operators to register without enforcement penalties. The planning director reported that the new DeCARD platform would go live September 1, 2026, enabling conditional approval upon submission. Discussion included workflow integration with EPIC, public outreach, complaint tracking, and staffing. Finance department remains responsible for TAT/GET tax oversight. The committee forwarded Bill 175 to the full council with a favorable recommendation (9 ayes). - Bill 176 (General Plan Amendment Procedures) – Councilmembers Inaba and Kirkowitz introduced a bill to codify a 10-year comprehensive review cycle, interim amendment procedures, and council authority to amend the general plan. The planning department requested changes, including allowing 60 days (instead of 30) for review of interim amendments. The committee agreed to modify the timeline and clarify council amendment authority. The bill was postponed to the August 4, 2026 committee meeting for further revision. Key Outcomes - Bill 175: Approved for forwarding to the full council with a favorable recommendation (9 ayes). First reading set for August 5, 2026. - Bill 176: Postponed to the August 4, 2026 committee meeting to incorporate amendments from the planning department and committee feedback.

The Committee on Finance of the Hawaii County Council met on July 22, 2026, at 10:23 a.m. Chaired by Councilmember Connelly Kleinfelder, eight members were present initially, with Councilmember Viegas joining later for a total of nine. The agenda included quarterly reports on temporary hires, a resolution for safe routes to school funding, and several bills addressing fiscal impact statements, budget appropriations, and property tax classifications for bed and breakfasts. Public Comments & Testimony - Del Wilsuco testified via Zoom on Communications 98.5 and 98.6, criticizing the county's heavy reliance on 89-day temporary hiring contracts. He argued that the quarterly reports omit data for half of the fiscal year and conceal the use of retired staff through executive appointments and consulting agreements. He urged the council to demand a thorough audit of all temporary hiring forms, including those not listed. Consent Calendar - Communication 98.5: Third quarter report (January 1–March 31, 2026) of persons employed under contracts for less than 90 days, from Human Resources Director Summer J. Toki Hero. Motion to close file passed unanimously (9-0). - Communication 98.6: Fourth quarter report (April 1–June 30, 2026) of the same. Motion to close file passed unanimously (9-0). During discussion, Councilmember Inaba questioned the use of 89-day contracts for law clerks and helicopter pilots; Director Toki Hero explained that long-term civil service positions are being developed for helicopter pilots after collective bargaining issues are resolved. Discussion Items - Resolution 604-26: Authorizes the mayor to enter an intergovernmental agreement with the state Department of Transportation to receive $6,282.72 in federally derived funds to update the county's motor vehicle registration system, enabling collection of a $5 surcharge for the Safe Routes to School program. Finance Department representatives Diana Nakagawa and Naomi O’Dell explained that the surcharge applies to most vehicles (excluding some like county/state vehicles and antiques) and that the funds will be deposited into the state's Safe Routes to School Program Special Fund for redistribution. Councilmembers expressed concerns about whether the funds would return equitably to Hawaii County and that the program has not been equitably distributed island-wide. Deputy Corporation Counsel Kira Wong noted that the fund allows multiple uses beyond safe routes. The resolution passed with a vote of 7-2 (Chair Connelly Kleinfelder and Councilmember Viegas voting no). - Bill 171: Amends Chapter 2, Article 4, Section 2-12.7 of the Hawaii County Code to require fiscal impact statements from the finance director for council bills with fiscal implications. Councilmember Onishi, the introducer, requested postponement to work out details with the finance department. The bill was postponed to the September 15, 2026 committee meeting in Hilo, by a unanimous vote (9-0). - Bill 172: Appropriates $6,282.72 from the state motor vehicle weight tax account to the vehicle registration other current expenses account for programming and updating the motor vehicle registration system. Passed unanimously (9-0). - Bill 173: Establishes a new bed and breakfast home property tax classification for vacation rentals that are the owner's principal residence, with a 3% annual assessment increase cap and a temporary tax amnesty period for non-compliant properties. Councilmember Kimball, the introducer, requested postponement to allow the Real Property Tax Administrator and Deputy Administrator to provide input. Discussion covered concerns about fairness of the 3% cap compared to other commercial activities, potential disincentives for long-term rentals, and the timeline for amnesty relative to the registration process under Ordinance 2550. The bill was postponed to the August 4, 2026 committee meeting by a unanimous vote (9-0). - Bill 174: Appropriates $500,000 from the state grants, Conaloa Small Business Recovery Grant Account to support one-time relief for Hawaii Island small businesses that sustained damage from the Conaloa storm. Passed unanimously (9-0). Key Outcomes - Communications 98.5 and 98.6: Closed files unanimously. - Resolution 604-26: Approved and forwarded to council with a favorable recommendation, 7-2. - Bill 171: Postponed to the September 15, 2026 committee meeting in Hilo, unanimously. - Bill 172: Approved and forwarded to council with a favorable recommendation, unanimously. - Bill 173: Postponed to the August 4, 2026 committee meeting, unanimously. - Bill 174: Approved and forwarded to council with a favorable recommendation, unanimously. - The meeting adjourned at 11:09 a.m.

The Hawaii County Council held its 44th session on July 8, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in Hilo, with all nine members present. The meeting began with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by presentations recognizing community contributions, public testimony on multiple agenda items, and the approval of several resolutions and bills. Key actions included confirmation of a fire commission nominee, approval of a resolution mandating Native Hawaiian law training within 12 months of taking office, and passage of bills establishing a disaster recovery officer and updating the Pahoa Village Design District. Presentations & Recognitions - Economic Recovery Fellow Recognition: Councilmember Kirkowitz introduced Mina Viditua Jr. and Susie Osborne (Ho'Uru La Hui) to honor Viditua's two-and-a-half-year fellowship with the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) supporting Lower Puna's recovery from the 2018 Kilauea eruption. The fellowship, one of 65 awarded from over 1,400 applicants (4% acceptance rate), focused on community-driven economic resilience. Susie Osborne highlighted the launch of Hale Halavai Opuna and other initiatives. - Joveo Award (July 2026): Firefighter Lahaina Olson Karuda from Hiʻiaka Fire Station was recognized for exceptional service, including leadership in the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team, car seat safety programs, and organizing a Christmas party for fire department families. Council members praised his dedication to mental health and community support. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the April 22, 2026, council meeting were deemed approved with no amendments. - Fire Commission Nomination: Eric Enoy was confirmed to the Fire Commission (8 ayes, 1 excused: Councilmember Kanyeli Kleinfelder). Public Comments & Testimony - Sheree Grifford (Kona, on Resolutions 5926, 59326, and 16326): Expressed concerns about wastewater treatment plants not filtering "forever chemicals" (PFAS) and pharmaceuticals, and questioned the use of taxpayer monies. On Bill 163, she argued the law should prioritize Hawaiian beneficiaries and Kumu ʻāina over all descendants. - Eileen O'Hara (Pahoa, on Bills 125, 126, 157, 165): Representing Malama O Puna, she supported Bills 125 and 126 (Pahoa Village Design District), Bill 157 (disaster recovery officer), and Bill 165 (PONC amendment). She also thanked Councilmember Kirkowitz for work on the Pahoa Village Master Plan and noted she was the only District 4 council candidate testifying. - Kamaile Puluole Mitchell (via Zoom, on Resolution 577): On behalf of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA), she expressed support for the resolution requiring Native Hawaiian law training, particularly the 12-month completion amendment, to inform council decisions on land use, housing, and cultural resources. - Renée Gadoy (in person, on Resolution 598): As founder of Friends of First Responders, she supported the resolution for the 2026 Robus couples conference for first responders, emphasizing the unique stresses on their marriages and the need for respite. - Amadeo Markov (in person, on Bills 125, 126, 157, 165): Supported all four bills. On Bill 165, he noted the importance of stewardship funding beyond acquisition, and on Bill 157, he cited the 2018 eruption as a reason for a permanent recovery officer. He also spoke to the community-driven planning behind Bills 125 and 126. - Wayne Braden (in person, on Resolution 598): Spoke in support of the resolution, sharing personal stories about first responders and advocating for traffic safety improvements on Saddle Road and signage related to Aliyah's Law. - Susie Osborne (on Bills 125, 126, 157, 165): As co-chair of the Puna economic recovery effort, she praised the Pahoa special district planning and urged passage of the bills. She also testified on Bill 157, sharing her personal experience losing her home and nonprofit in the 2018 eruption and the need for a structured recovery framework. - Deborah Ward (on Bill 165): Supported the charter amendment in general but expressed concerns about the lack of concurrent code changes and the omission of the PONC Commission's role in stewardship decisions, warning that the bill could give too much power to the Mayor and Finance Department. - Debbie Hecht (via Zoom, on Bill 165): Co-author of the original charter amendments, she urged caution, suggesting a two-year delay to allow better understanding of the program. She proposed amendments to ensure semi-annual deposits, detailed financial reporting, and mandatory grant awards (changing "may" to "shall"). She noted that if the bill passes without safeguards, a "vote no" campaign could follow. Discussion Items - Resolution 577-26 (Native Hawaiian Law Training): Councilmember Kagiwada moved to amend the resolution to require council members to complete the OHA Native Hawaiian Law Training within 12 months of taking office, down from 24 months. OHA's Kamaile Puluole Mitchell confirmed that training is offered 2-3 times per year at no cost, with plans to increase to four times per year. The amendment passed 9-0. The resolution as amended was approved unanimously. - Resolution 592-26 (Wastewater Treatment Plant Extensions): Authorized extensions of EPA consent agreements for Kulae Manual and Popeiko plants. Councilmember Kanyeli Kleinfelder questioned the timeline and potential for incorporating R1/R2 water reuse and addressing PFAS. DEM Director Dan Gervin noted that PFAS treatment is not in current plans but may be required in future permitting. The resolution passed 9-0. - Bill 126 (Pahoa Village Special District): Councilmember Kirkowitz introduced an amendment (Communication 710.5) to add plan approval requirements for projects, which was adopted. The bill as amended passed first reading. - Bill 164 (Housing Administrator Confirmation): Councilmember O'Nishi moved to amend the bill to align with charter provisions (30-day appointment, 60-day council confirmation). A discussion noted that the amendment might need refinement to match charter language exactly; the council agreed to perfect it at second reading. The amendment and bill passed first reading. - Bill 157 (Disaster Recovery Officer): On second and final reading, Councilmember Kirkowitz emphasized the need for a proactive recovery framework, noting the after-action report from the 2018 eruption showed the county could have done better. The bill passed 9-0. - Bill 162 (Paid Parking Facilities): Councilmember Viegas expressed disappointment at the number of vacant storefronts in Kailua-Kona but noted the bill is a step toward transparency. Passed 9-0 on final reading. - Bill 165 (PONC Charter Amendment): Extensive discussion on the amendment to increase the maintenance fund allocation and remove the $3 million cap. Councilmember Kirkowitz offered an amendment (Communication 915.4) to keep the allocation at 0.25% (quarter percent) but allow the council and Finance Director to appropriate additional funds as needed. The amendment passed 7-2 (Houstis and Kagiwada opposed). Debate included concerns about the fund accumulating without a cap, the need for concurrent code changes, and the desire to protect the program from political interference. Deputy Finance Director Malia Kai confirmed that the department supports the bill and plans to spend more on property assessments and stewardship. The bill passed second reading 9-0, with a third reading scheduled. Key Outcomes - Fire Commission Nomination Confirmed: Eric Enoy confirmed to the Fire Commission (8-1). - Resolution 577-26 Approved: Requires council members to complete Native Hawaiian law training within 12 months of taking office (9-0). - Resolution 586-26 Approved: Authorizes $142,000 in recovery grant funds to Pohaku Pelemaka for the Kilauea eruption recovery (9-0). - Resolution 592-26 Approved: Extends EPA consent agreement deadlines for Kulae Manual and Popeiko wastewater treatment plants (9-0). - Resolution 593-26 Approved: Extends deadlines for Pahala and Naalehu large capacity cesspool closures (9-0). - Resolutions 596-601 Approved: Various grant and transfer resolutions passed (all 9-0). - Bill 125 Approved at First Reading: Clarifies the Pahoa Village Design District procedures (9-0). - Bill 126 (as amended) Approved at First Reading: Creates the downtown Pahoa commercial district as a special zoning district (9-0). - Bill 157 Approved at Second and Final Reading: Establishes a permanent county disaster recovery program led by a recovery officer (9-0). - Bill 162 Approved at Second and Final Reading: Amends paid parking facility regulations (9-0). - Bill 163 Approved at First Reading: Establishes a real property tax dedication for properties owned by descendants of original owners (minimum tax for generational lands) (9-0). - Bill 164 (as amended) Approved at First Reading: Requires council confirmation for the housing administrator (9-0). - Bill 165 (as amended) Approved at Second Reading: Initiates a charter amendment to increase the PONC maintenance fund allocation and remove the accrual limit (9-0). Third reading scheduled for next meeting. Announcements - Next Meeting Location Change: Due to election operations, council meetings on July 22-23, August 4-5, and August 18-19 will be held in Kona at the West Hawaii Civic Center. Hilo chambers will be closed. - Waikōloa Evacuation Traffic Study: Community meeting on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the Village Association Banquet Room. - Memorial: Councilmember Viegas acknowledged the passing of Wendy Madaras Baez, a long-time legislative aide, with condolences to her family. A certificate of service will be prepared. Meeting adjourned at 12:20 p.m.

The Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs, chaired by Councilmember Jen Kagiwada, met on July 7, 2026, at 9:40 a.m. in Hilo chambers with all nine council members present. The agenda included two nominations, two resolutions concerning wildlife management and conservation easement funding, and a bill to amend the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation (PONC) program. The meeting concluded with the postponement of Bill 169 to August 4, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Dane Kealoha, Director of INA Transactions for Hawaii Land Trust (HILT), testified in strong support of Resolution 595-26. He explained that the resolution enables Hawaii County to combine previously awarded PONC funds with federal NRCS matching funds for a conservation easement on the Kaloha family lo‘i in North Kohala. He noted that this public-private-federal partnership would allow HILT to use the same model for future agricultural conservation easements on Hawaii Island. He thanked the finance department and PONC team for their work. Discussion Items - Communication 946 – Nomination of Shauna Kaulukukui to the Cultural Resources Commission: Mayor’s Executive Assistant Mike Alameda presented the nominee, a Hilo native, graduate of Waiakea High School, self-employed certified welder, leader with Vibrant Hawaii, president of the Kailapa Community Association, and coordinator with the Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization. Ms. Kaulukukui stated she believes cultural preservation starts at home and wants to serve her community. Councilmembers Houstis and Kimball expressed support. The motion to close the file and send a favorable recommendation to the full council passed with nine ayes. - Communication 947 – Nomination of Jonathan Zeitner to the Hamakua Community Development Plan Action Committee: Mr. Alameda presented Mr. Zeitner, a resident of Hawaii Island for 18 years with experience in nonprofits and youth advocacy. Mr. Zeitner stated his goal is to listen deeply and offer strategic long-term thinking. Councilmember Kimball noted the strong references from community pillars. The motion to close the file and send a favorable recommendation passed with nine ayes. - Resolution 594-26 – Cooperative Service Agreement with USDA Wildlife Services: Jordan Lynell, District Supervisor for USDA Wildlife Services, described an estimated 150–200 feral swine at the Hilo Solid Waste Transfer Station causing sanitary issues and potential disease transmission (brucellosis, pseudorabies, classical swine flu). The proposal would fund one employee ($111,000) to conduct trapping operations outside business hours using corral traps and suppressed firearms. DEM Chief Mike Rivera added that enforcement against feeding animals is challenging. Councilmember Connelly-Kleinfelder raised concerns about public feeding and suggested public education. Councilmember Inaba asked about trapping methods and pig intelligence. Lynell explained that they use large corral traps capable of catching up to 30 pigs at once. Disposal of carcasses will be coordinated with DEM to take them to Puana Hulu. Chair Kagiwada noted video of DEM employees feeding pigs and called for training. The motion to forward to council with a favorable recommendation passed with nine ayes. - Resolution 595-26 – Intergovernmental Agreement with NRCS for Conservation Easement Cost-Sharing: Ben Shapiro (PONC program manager) and Nick Somerber (NRCS Assistant Director) explained that the agreement allows the county to join an existing program agreement with HILT to receive matching NRCS funds for the Kaloha family lo‘i conservation easement (already authorized by Resolution 513-26). The project involves $150,000 from each program. The agreement does not obligate funds but establishes a protocol for co-holding the easement. Councilmembers Houstis and Galimba praised the collaboration. The motion to forward to council passed with nine ayes. - Bill 169 – Amendments to PONC Program (Chapter 2, Article 42): Introduced by Councilmembers Houstis and Galimba, the bill would require all qualifying lands ranked at 70% or higher to be included on the commission’s recommendation list. It sets timelines for acquisition: 10 years for properties ranked 90% or higher, and 5 years for properties ranked less than 90%. After those periods, the finance director must reassess each property. Councilmember Houstis explained the intent is to establish regular checkpoints without being rigid deadlines. Councilmember Galimba noted the bill is not retroactive. Deputy Director of Finance Malia Kai stated that in the last five years, only 11 properties scored in the 90s, suggesting the two-tier system may not be necessary, and requested more definition on “reassess.” Councilmember Inaba questioned why higher-priority properties get a longer timeline, fearing it could delay action. Councilmember Kimball advocated for a single review period and suggested requiring a report on reasonable efforts made. Councilmember Viegas highlighted a bottleneck: the mayor’s office must approve appraisals before acquisitions can move forward, and called for stronger incentives. Chair Kagiwada agreed on the need for a review of existing properties. The maker, Councilmember Houstis, acknowledged the feedback and expressed concern about commission workload. He then moved to postpone Bill 169 to the August 4 committee meeting. The motion passed with nine ayes. Key Outcomes - Communication 946: Closed and sent to full council with favorable recommendation (9-0). - Communication 947: Closed and sent to full council with favorable recommendation (9-0). - Resolution 594: Forwarded to full council with favorable recommendation (9-0). - Resolution 595: Forwarded to full council with favorable recommendation (9-0). - Bill 169: Postponed to the August 4, 2026 committee meeting (9-0).

The Committee on Finance held its 39th session on July 7, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. at the Hawaii County Building, with members participating via remote sites. No public testimony was offered. The committee considered four communications: fund transfers, a donation report, and a bonded indebtedness summary. Communication 23.37 – Report of Fund Transfers (May 1–15, 2026) - Councilmember Houstis questioned Kelsey Kalua Lewis of Public Works about a transfer from the flood control account to cover water spigot maintenance costs. Lewis explained increased water usage at the Ocean View and Puna sites due to dry conditions and volcano activity. Councilmember Houstis expressed concern that flood control funds should be used for preventative measures rather than water spigot maintenance. The chair noted increased community demand for water spigots. Diana Nakagawa of Finance confirmed the administration is reviewing water needs. - Motion to close file passed unanimously (9 in favor). Communication 23.38 – Report of Fund Transfers (May 16–31, 2026) - Councilmember Houstis asked Robin Bauman of Environmental Management for a cost breakdown of equipment totaling $864,000: a pre-engineered storage building ($120,000, not yet purchased), a roll-off truck ($350,000), six light towers ($264,000), and an excavator with a hammer ($130,000). Houstis expressed concern that funds should be used for repairs of existing facilities rather than new equipment. Bauman noted the equipment would help with repairs. - Motion to close file passed 8-1, with Councilmember Houstis voting in opposition. Communication 27.5 – Report of Donations from Daniel R.R. R. Say Memorial Foundation (as of March 2026) - Councilmembers expressed gratitude (mahalo) to the foundation and its representative Laura for contributions to the fire department, including helicopters, trucks, and scuba equipment. - Motion to close file passed 8-0-1 (Councilmember Kagiwada excused). Communication 938 – Supplemental Summary of Bonded Indebtedness (as of May 7, 2026) - Finance Director Diane Nakagawa presented the county’s debt summary: total debt outstanding $561 million, net funded debt $534 million. General obligation bonds $501 million. Debt as a percentage of general fund expenditures was 8.84% for issued debt and 14.05% for authorized but unissued debt. Councilmember Galumba asked about projections; Nakagawa stated the percentage is expected to stay below 15% under current projections, and the administration plans to review older authorizations for possible cleanup. Councilmember Houstis advocated preserving the 2020 bond ordinance for alternate emergency roads. Councilmember questioned the process for water supply bonds; Nakagawa explained they are issued by the county and reimbursed by the Department of Water Supply. - Motion to close file passed unanimously (9 in favor). Key Outcomes - Communication 23.37 closed (unanimous). - Communication 23.38 closed (8-1; Houstis opposed). - Communication 27.5 closed (8-0-1; Kagiwada excused). - Communication 938 closed (unanimous). - The meeting adjourned at 9:38 a.m.

The Communication Reports and Council Oversight Committee met on July 7, 2026, at 12:43 PM in Hilo to review several key items, including a county auditor's quality control system peer review, a quarterly affordable housing report, a follow-up audit of affordable housing credits, and a nonprofit grants compliance review. The committee closed all four files with unanimous votes. Consent Calendar - Communication 943: Review of the County Auditor's Quality Control System for July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2025, from County Auditor Claire McAdam, dated June 17, 2026. Closed unanimously. - Communication 35.7: Quarterly Affordable Housing Report for January 1, 2026, to March 31, 2026, from Housing Administrator Kehauani M. Costa, dated May 29, 2026. Closed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public testimony was offered for any agenda items. Discussion Items - Auditor's Quality Control Peer Review: Two peer reviewers (Paul Guy from Wisconsin and Stan Sewell from Chattanooga, Tennessee) presented the results of the ALGA peer review for the period July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2025. They issued a pass opinion with no management letter comment, indicating the office adhered to government auditing standards at the highest level. Reviewers praised the office's leadership, team, and hospitality. - Quarterly Affordable Housing Report: Housing Administrator Costa reported that construction continues on the next large multifamily affordable housing project (Kuakini Heights, 100 units in Kailua-Kona at 60% AMI). Dolphin Bay (18 units, purchased for about $2 million) is in active lease-up. In response to questions, Costa clarified that the first year often requires subsidizing operational costs, with the goal of achieving operational sustainability within five years. Council member expressed desire to see more workforce housing (60% AMI level) and requested a detailed financial projection for Dolphin Bay's five-year cost recoupment. - Follow-up Audit of Affordable Housing Credits (Report 26-01): Auditor McAdam reported that six of seven recommendations have been completed, with one still in progress (revising Chapter 11 of the county's affordable housing policy). Significant progress was noted, including updated administrative rules, strengthened internal controls, and a new public dashboard. Council members commended the department's improvements, emphasizing transparency and reliability. - Nonprofit Grants Compliance Review (FY 2024–2025): Auditor McAdam and lead analyst Jasmine Santos presented findings from a review of 49 organizations administering 58 programs with $2,027,500. Key findings: two organizations proposed using funds for off-island travel (not allowed under current rules); eight organizations reported compensation to board members (potentially violating Hawaii County Code); two organizations served as fiscal sponsors and charged a 10% administrative fee without clear authorization. Three programs (5% of the population) did not respond to information requests. The review identified ongoing challenges in documenting public purpose, tracking outcomes, and verifying program results. The new grant management system (soft-launched that day) is expected to improve standardization and real-time tracking. Finance Director Diana Kagawa confirmed the system is live but still being refined. Council members discussed the need for clearer guidance on board member compensation and legislative clarifications. Key Outcomes - All four communications (943, 35.7, 941, and 942) were closed unanimously with nine votes in favor. - Council members requested detailed financial information on the Dolphin Bay project's operational costs (to be provided by OHCD). - The first recommendation of the affordable housing credit audit (Chapter 11 revisions) remains in progress, with the ad hoc committees' work expected to be finalized soon. - The new grant management system is operational but in soft launch; full implementation is anticipated to address many compliance issues. - Council members expressed interest in legislative clarifications regarding board member compensation for nonprofits receiving county funds. - The committee ended the meeting and will reconvene the following morning.