Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Appointments topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Committee forwards John T. Kimura nomination to Board of Appeals with favorable recommendation
Summary
Hawaii County committee voted 9-0 to forward the nomination of John T. Kimura to the Board of Appeals with a favorable recommendation after brief discussion of his background and availability.
The Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs voted unanimously on May 6 to forward the nomination of John T. Kimura to the County Board of Appeals with a favorable recommendation to the full Council.
Mike Olamide, the executive assistant to the mayor, presented the nomination, saying it was his “privilege to present communication 2 6 9, nominating John t Kimura of Council District 2 to the board of appeals.” If confirmed by the Council, the nominee’s term would expire Dec. 31, 2029.
The committee’s nut graf: the committee moved quickly after hearing the nominee’s background and brief questions from council members, citing his business experience and community ties as reasons to recommend confirmation.
John T. Kimura, the nominee, told the committee he has lived on the island for most of his life and described his experience as a retired electrical contractor and local volunteer. “I have lived on the Big Island for the last 75 years,” Kimura said, adding that he and his wife founded JK Electric in 1983 and at its peak employed about 30 people.
Council members asked Kimura about his familiarity with the board’s work and his ability to prepare for cases. Ashley Kerkowitz, speaking from Hilo, noted Kimura’s introduction email and endorsements and said she was “100% behind your confirmation.” Kimura said he had watched a few Board of Appeals sessions online and that, because he is retired, he has the time to do the reading and preparation needed.
Council Member Vegas urged Kimura to consult with council members who represent districts when relevant cases come before the Board of Appeals; a member of the county’s legal staff explained that the Board of Appeals is an adjudicatory board and direct contact with board members about pending cases would be inappropriate, but public testimony can and should be provided during hearings so all board members receive the information.
With no further discussion, Council Member Hodaka Inaba moved to close the file and forward Kimura’s nomination with a favorable recommendation; the motion was seconded by Council Member James Eustace. The clerk recorded nine votes in favor and none opposed; the motion carried.
The committee record shows the nomination will now go to the full Council for confirmation.
