Hawaii County Council approves $70M for employee hazard pay amid COVID recovery

In a pivotal meeting held on April 1, 2025, the Hawaii County Finance Committee addressed critical budgetary adjustments aimed at compensating county employees for their dedicated service during the COVID-19 pandemic. The atmosphere in the room was charged with a sense of urgency and gratitude as council members discussed the implications of proposed salary adjustments and hazard pay for frontline workers.

The committee reviewed Bill 36, which seeks to amend the operating budget to include a significant $70 million allocation from the county's fund balance. This funding is earmarked for temporary hazard pay for all covered employees who worked tirelessly from March 2020 to March 2022, a period marked by uncertainty and risk. Council member Kanili Klein, who introduced the bill, emphasized the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by county workers during the pandemic.

Director Nakagawa provided insights into the budget's structure, noting that while most salaries were based on the current year's figures, the ongoing negotiations with various unions would influence the final numbers. The council members expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts that led to this moment, acknowledging the hard work of both past and present administrations in securing these funds.

Council member Reynaldo highlighted the long-awaited nature of this compensation, reflecting on the challenges faced by employees who remained on the front lines during the pandemic. He shared a poignant story of a county worker who, despite the risks, prioritized community service over financial gain. This sentiment resonated throughout the meeting, as members voiced their support for honoring those who put themselves in harm's way for the greater good.

As discussions progressed, concerns were raised about the accuracy of the estimated compensation amounts, given the limitations of the county's aging financial system. However, Nakagawa reassured the committee that the estimates were conservative, allowing for potential adjustments as more precise data became available.

In a show of unity, council members expressed their commitment to ensuring that all employees receive fair compensation for their efforts. The motion to forward Bill 36 with a favorable recommendation passed unanimously, marking a significant step toward rectifying the financial recognition of county workers.

As the meeting concluded, the council members reflected on the broader implications of these decisions, recognizing that this funding not only serves as a financial remedy but also as a testament to the resilience and dedication of Hawaii County's workforce during one of the most challenging times in recent history. The approval of this budget amendment is expected to bring relief and acknowledgment to those who stood at the forefront of the pandemic response, reinforcing the community's gratitude for their unwavering service.