The County Charter amendments on the ballot need careful attention. The council is usually the first elected position for most people and we aren't sure what we are getting. In the past, there have been council members whom we needed to delete after only two years, so that is a no.
Should Ocean Rescue (beach lifeguards) be with the Parks or the Fire Department? I've talked to firemen in three different stations and haven't found any in support of the change. It's sort of a square peg in a round hole. The firemen have a union and set of rules and performance standards which have absolutely nothing to do with beach lifeguards and vice versa. It appears to me the beach lifeguards want to move to fire for perceived better benefits and retirement. That would require an additional administration to be added to the Fire Department where it would be in competition and conflict for fire funding. I think the beach lifeguards should remain in Parks, where they are a much better fit. No.
A county auditor is absolutely necessary. There is far too much of our tax money floating around unaccounted for, both within county departments and in county grants, particularly those that fall under the mayor. Many, many millions of dollar go to the Maui Visitors Bureau and 35 other grant recipients with virtually no review or accountability. A county auditor could curb the waste and require accountability. This is very much a worthwhile amendment. Yes.
Buck Joiner
Kihei
