Committee forwards interagency public‑safety agreement with National Park Service

The committee on July 22 voted to forward Resolution 602‑26 to the full Hawaii County Council with a favorable recommendation. The resolution authorizes the mayor to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with the U.S. Department of the Interior National Park Service to coordinate public‑safety personnel and equipment at national park sites.

Acting Fire Chief Daniel, speaking remotely, said the agreement renews a long‑standing partnership that allows cooperation at National Park Service sites, including ambulatory support and shared equipment. “This does not represent any material change,” Daniel said, noting the agreement updates a 2021 document and reflects federal administrative changes.

Councilmembers moved and seconded the motion to forward the measure; the committee recorded the motion as carried by voice vote and counted nine ayes. Members expressed support for maintaining the partnership and had no substantive questions for the fire department.

The committee’s favorable recommendation sends the resolution to the full council for final consideration.