By TOM CALLIS By TOM CALLIS ADVERTISING Tribune-Herald staff writer Big Island residents unable to attend a Hawaii County Council meeting could still have their voices heard, literally, under a proposal to be discussed today. Kohala Councilman Pete Hoffmann has
By TOM CALLIS
Tribune-Herald staff writer
Big Island residents unable to attend a Hawaii County Council meeting could still have their voices heard, literally, under a proposal to be discussed today.
Kohala Councilman Pete Hoffmann has introduced a resolution that would allow residents to submit a video of their testimony to the council that could be played during meetings.
It will be discussed during the council’s Government Relations Committee meeting in the Hilo council chambers, 25 Aupuni St.
Currently, residents are allowed to speak in person or through video feeds at county offices around the island and submit written testimony.
Hoffmann said allowing residents to also submit a video would allow those unable to attend a meeting or access a live video feed to have equal time before the council.
“The point is I think fundamentally anything we can do to encourage, increase or enhance people’s participation in county government is good,” he said.
Hoffmann acknowledged that could lengthen public comment sessions, which can already last for many hours and lead to a delay of some agenda items when a hot-button issue is being discussed.
But he said lengthy council meetings is a price that sometimes has to be paid to ensure residents’ voices are heard.
“I personally think that’s what we are supposed to be doing here in the first place,” Hoffmann said, referring to hearing public testimony.
Hoffmann said he came up with the idea after a constituent asked if they could submit video testimony earlier this year.
He said no since the council doesn’t have any rules allowing it.
But sensing a good idea, Hoffmann said he decided to bring it up to the council for consideration.
“I’m not sure that this is the greatest idea since sliced bread,” he said. “I’m just interested in having a discussion.”
Hoffmann said he does read written testimony submitted to the council but added a video could give comments from a resident who can’t attend a meeting more weight with the council.
“I think it has more impact,” he said.
Email Tom Callis at tcallis@hawaiitribune-herald.com..
