The Honolulu Police Commission recently selected Honolulu's new Police Chief. They named Louis Kealoha, a 26 year veteran with HPD, as the new Chief. A Captain with HPD, Kealoha is a well-educated officer that has the respect of the rank and file, as well as the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers. It appears that HPD is on its way to improving the relationships between the administration and the rank and file. I wish them success as they move forward to a new era of leadership.
One of the most impressive things that I noticed about Chief Kealoha was his immediate acknowledgement of the fiscal challenges that he will be facing. Even more impressive was his plan to move forward. From the Honolulu Star Bulletin:
Kealoha said the budget restraints and cuts will give the department an opportunity to re-examine its structure to see where there is duplication of effort and to see what services might be transferred to civilians or the private sector.
He said he also wants to increase the role of volunteer staffing, perhaps by increasing the police reserve officer program.
I hope all of the government leaders throughout the State will follow suit. With the economy in a tailspin, now is the time to reassess the structures of government. Now is the time to cut all duplication of services and other wasteful spending of taxpayer funds. Although easier said than done, it all starts with the acceptance that changes need to be made. From that point, an honest and objective look at the entire operation must be made. Duplication of services are wasteful and need to be addressed. Cuts will have to be made, provided that public safety is not compromised.
To sum it up, Chief Kealoha said it best. He said:
"There's going to be big cuts," said Kealoha, interviewed later. "I believe this is the time we're going to demonstrate who we are. ... We're going to succeed through this, without compromising service to the community."
Good luck Chief Kealoha. We wish you well and look forward to a new and improved Honolulu Police Department. God bless and stay safe.
I don't know too much about the politics regarding Oahu's new Police Chief, but we are glad about the choice. We couldn't imagine the Police Commission chosing someone who was not qualified. This does not seem to be the case.
ReplyDeleteThe way the newly appointed Police Chief comes across, I'd say is good because he say's what's on his mind and has a plan to put into place...