Hawai’i County, HI – The Hawai’i County Council unanimously passed four significant bills during its meeting on April 16, 2025, signaling a commitment to fair hiring practices, employee compensation, and critical infrastructure improvements. The bills, numbered 21 (Draft 2), 36, 37, and 43, now move forward in the legislative process.
Bill 21 (Draft 2) focuses on strengthening nepotism regulations within Hawai’i County government. The amendment to Chapter 2, Article 15 of the Hawai’i County Code aims to ensure fair and impartial hiring, personnel, and contracting practices by aligning county policy with standards outlined in Section 84-13.2 of the Hawai’i Revised Statutes. This measure seeks to prevent preferential treatment based on familial relationships and promote a more equitable workplace.
Bill 36, known as the Salary Ordinance of 2025, establishes a comprehensive pay plan for County employees not covered by other existing agreements. The ordinance outlines payroll periods, paydays, and fidelity bond requirements, while also setting compensation rates for appointed employees within the Legislative Branch, the Office of Housing and Community Development, the County Physician, Student Helpers, and Senior Community Services Aids across various County agencies. The bill also ensures compliance with updated minimum wage requirements.
Bill 37 amends the Operating Budget for the County of Hawai’i for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. It increases revenues in the Fund Balance from Previous Year account by $70,000,000 and allocates these funds to the Provision for Compensation Adjustment-General account. This measure provides resources for potential salary or benefit adjustments for County employees.
Bill 43 addresses critical infrastructure needs by increasing funding for the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant Rehabilitation Project. The bill amends Ordinance No. 23-40, ultimately raising the project’s budget from $17 million to $52 million. This significant investment will support necessary upgrades and improvements to the wastewater treatment facility, ensuring its continued functionality and compliance with environmental regulations.
All four bills were passed unanimously by the Council, demonstrating strong support for these key initiatives. Council Members Galimba, Hustace, Kagiwada, Kaneali’i-Kleinfelder, Kierkiewicz, Kimball, Onishi, Villegas, and Chair Inaba all voted in favor of the legislation.