I urge members of the County Council's Policy Committee to carefully consider the charter amendments proposed by some of its members which, if approved by the electorate, would give the council veto power over the mayor's choices for certain key department heads (The Maui News, April 14).
Such authority would provide for more accountability and council oversight over key department heads. Certain positions in the administration are indeed so critical for Maui County's future that they mandate additional review of candidates by the council. It is important for the council to understand the capabilities, qualifications, competences and, even, any possible hidden agendas of the administration's nominees.
A policy of advise and consent has always worked well for the U.S. Senate and would be beneficial for Maui County as well. It would help the council screen out potential department heads with a tendency to overstep their authority and who, once in office, might behave like loose cannons rolling around the deck of our ship smashing things.
Council members, please don't reject these important proposals out of hand.
Robert W. Riebling
Maalaea
