The video has been published for the February 23, 2023, County Council meeting during which draft #2 of Bill 22 was discussed. Bill 22, if passed, will create the Animal Control and Protection Agency. The video can be found at the following link . . . discussion for Bill 22 starts at approximately 2:04. You can also scroll down to "Bill 22, Draft 2" using the Index below the video: https://hawaiicounty.granicus.com/player/clip/2637

This was the Bill's first reading. It was forwarded to the next Council meeting, with favorable recommendation from all members in attendance, for 2nd and possibly final reading. "Task Force" and "Transparency" were the discussion points of the day. We are getting traction - the Mayor has agreed to an Agency Task Force and the administration appears to understand the critical need and demand for transparency now and going forward.

Mahalo to Council Member - and one of the introducers of the Bill - Cindy Evans for asking solid questions during the discussion. Another thank you to Council Member Kagiwada for introducing an amendment to the Bill adding in a minimum of two (2) reports/year by the Agency directly to the Council [we had asked for one (1)] - further addressing the transparency and accountability issues we are experiencing now. Finally, Managing Director Lord - thank you, in advance, for your willingness to work with the community; for understanding the need for transparency, accountability, effectiveness and community involvement . . . for major progress/improvements all around.