Don’t resign ADVERTISING Don’t resign I preface my remarks by saying that being an attorney, myself, for more than 30 years, attorneys — which include Mayor Billy Kenoi — are well aware of the standard of conduct with regard to
Don’t resign
I preface my remarks by saying that being an attorney, myself, for more than 30 years, attorneys — which include Mayor Billy Kenoi — are well aware of the standard of conduct with regard to “good character and fitness” under Rule 1 (c) of the Hawaii Supreme Court admission to the Bar.
Good character and fitness include honesty, trustworthiness, financial responsibility, respect for the law, etc.
Billy Kenoi violated all of these compulsory attributes. His behavior was egregious — and contrary to the dictates of our profession.
That said, Billy Kenoi should not resign as mayor of Hawaii County for the following reasons:
1. He made a commitment to Hawaii Island that he would serve us as our mayor until year 2016. Further, it is incumbent of him to fulfill his responsibility to us, his constituents, because it would be extremely disruptive and expensive to have him replaced at this juncture.
2. The ongoing investigation, which likely will include criminal, ethical, attorney sanctions, would probably last for the duration of the remainder of his term. Further, we as taxpayers could continue to scrutinize the development of the investigation while he continues as mayor. We should ask him to author an administrative rule/ordinance to prevent such abuse of pCard use in the future and possibly suggest he do community service to ameliorate the wrongs caused to the taxpayers.
3. It is undeniable Mayor Kenoi has guided the county through some tough economic years. Accomplishments: He managed to complete our Kailua Park Playground, Pahoa District Park, Mamalahoa Highway bypass from Kealakekua to Napo‘opo‘o (27.5 miles), was successful in assuming the management of Mauna Kea Park — which included extensive renovations — and did an incredible job for our Puna residents during Tropical Storm Iselle.
In summary, Billy Kenoi, should NOT resign as mayor for the reasons outlined above.
Lei Kihoi
Hawaii Island commissioner,
Native Hawaiian Roll Commission
Punch back?
Why has the business community been so quiet about the debate about the future of the Thirty Meter Telescope? As a transplant from Honolulu, I am stunned by the silence.
Where are the labor unions? Where are the scientists? Where are the educators, entrepreneurs, experts?
If intimidation has something to do with this (as was suggested in a letter in Tuesday’s Tribune-Herald), fight back with all legal means, including law enforcement.
A lot is at stake for the TMT supporters. As one of my haole friends likes to say: “Put up your dukes!”
A. Yamamoto
Hilo
