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HCDA adopts PIG recommendations and recommends 15% raise for executive director
Summary
HCDA adopted the permitted interaction group’s executive evaluation and recommended a 15% salary increase for Executive Director Craig Nakamoto; members debated comparables, DBEDT and legislative approval, and public commenters opposed the raise citing community resource needs.
The Hawaiʻi Community Development Authority on June 3 adopted the recommendations of a permitted interaction group (PIG) that conducted the executive director’s annual performance review and recommended a 15% salary increase.
Staff summarized that the PIG met in April and produced an evaluation finding that the executive director exceeded performance expectations; the group recommended a 15% increase tied to market comparables and the increased responsibilities the agency is assuming. Some members cited HR guidance that HCDA positions are outside the Commission on Salaries framework and noted that human resources had identified a 2.95% across‑the‑board adjustment under current guidance for attached agencies.
Members debated the legal and budgetary path for a board‑recommended increase. Member Wicker noted HCDA's employee classifications differ from those governed by the Commission on Salaries; other members argued the board has statutory authority to set the executive director's salary and that market alignment and recruitment needs justify the recommendation. Staff and members discussed that DBEDT, the governor and the legislature have roles in approving or funding the increase and that HCDA may need to seek a ceiling or budget adjustment if legislation or internal funding does not cover the change. The executive director told members the agency will transition to special funds on July 1 if the budget is signed, which could affect funding sources.
Public commenters opposed the raise. Tara Roas said she opposed the increase while community members continue to “suffer” and provided figures she said showed the director’s current salary; Eric Clark of JN Group asked that community input be considered in future performance assessments.
Member Leong moved to adopt the PIG report and its recommendations, including the 15% increase recommendation; Member Sakakota seconded. Roll‑call vote recorded 15 yes, 1 no and 1 excused; the motion passed.
