Council committee advances Landon Kaneshiro nomination to Police Commission amid reservations from some members

The Committee on Public Safety and Customer Services held a confirmation hearing for Mayor‑nominated Landon Kaneshiro to the Honolulu Police Commission and reported the nomination out for adoption despite several members expressing reservations.

Kaneshiro told the committee he has experience in business management, served on the city zoning board of appeals and views the appointment as pro bono community service: “I don't take this appointment lightly at all,” he said. He said he had observed police operations and participated in a ride‑along and identified recruitment, morale, homelessness and mental health as among the department’s challenges.

Several council members pressed Kaneshiro on his qualifications and expectations for the post. Committee Vice Chair Kia Aina said she was “a little worried about your nomination to this post because I don't believe you have the requisite experience,” and said she expected nominees to bring either direct experience or demonstrable passion for the social issues the department handles. Council Member Tova said she would vote with reservations. Council Member Weier said she supported the nomination and welcomed generational diversity on the commission.

Kaneshiro said he had multiple conversations with the mayor about the role and understood the priorities expected of him, including “visibility, accountability into the department, making sure that things are being done properly.” He told the committee he plans to commit the necessary time to the commission and to learn the dynamics quickly.

The committee chair recommended Resolution 25‑101, confirming Kaneshiro to a term expiring Dec. 31, 2029, be reported out for adoption; the chair’s recommendation was ordered. The transcript records dissenting votes in committee: Kia Aina voted no and Tova recorded a vote “with reservations.”