Nepotism ordinance discussed and deferred for further work

Supporters told the committee Maui needs a countywide anti-nepotism rule to protect fairness in hiring and promotions. Volunteer Board of Ethics member Katie Schroeder said Maui was one of two jurisdictions in the state without such a policy and pointed to the SPIRE audit identifying the gap.

Board Chair Michael Lilly said a countywide anti-nepotism measure strengthens integrity and public confidence in a small community where many people are related by family or friendship. "This bill reassures the public that hiring and promotions are based on merit," Lilly said.

Committee members raised technical drafting questions and asked staff to return with clarified definitions of relatives and coverage. The committee then deferred Bill 99 for a future agenda to allow staff and counsel to refine the language and address members' questions.