STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3609

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NOS. 726, 727

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirtieth State Legislature

Regular Session of 2020

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Labor, Culture and the Arts, to which was referred Governor's Message Nos. 726 and 727, submitting for study and consideration the nominations of:

Board of Trustees of the Deferred Compensation Plan

G.M. No. 726	BLANCHE MATSUYAMA, for a term to expire 06-30-2023; and
G.M. No. 727	KALEIHI‘IIKAPOLI RAPOZA, for a term to expire 06-30-2024,

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee reviewed the personal histories, resumes, and statements submitted by Blanche Matsuyama and Kaleihi‘iikapoli Rapoza for service on the Board of Trustees of the Deferred Compensation Plan.

BLANCHE MATSUYAMA

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Blanche Matsuyama from the Department of Human Resources Development; State of Hawai‘i Deferred Compensation Plan; University of Hawai‘i Systems; Mayor of the County of Kaua‘i; Department of Finance, County of Kaua‘i; Office of the County Clerk, Kaua‘i County Council; and one individual.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Matsuyama's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be appointed to the Board of Trustees of the Deferred Compensation Plan. Your Committee notes that Ms. Matsuyama has been an auditor since 2004 and possesses a wealth of knowledge in auditing and financial management. She is currently the Director of Finance for the County of Kauai. Previously, Ms. Matsuyama was the Director of Finance and Corporate Treasurer for Grove Farm Company, Inc. Your Committee finds that Ms. Matsuyama has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of board members and her extensive experience in finance will enhance the effectiveness of the Board of Trustees of the Deferred Compensation Plan. Your Committee therefore recommends that Ms. Matsuyama be appointed to the Board of Trustees of the Deferred Compensation Plan based on her knowledge, background, and dedication to public service.

KALEIHI‘IIKAPOLI RAPOZA

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the reappointment of Kaleihi‘iikapoli Rapoza from the Department of Human Resources Development, State of Hawai‘i Deferred Compensation Plan, University of Hawai‘i System, and four individuals.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Mr. Rapoza's experience, knowledge, and proven leadership on the Board of Trustees of the Deferred Compensation Plan qualify him for reappointment to the Board. Your Committee notes that Mr. Rapoza has fourteen years of experience in labor relations and has been licensed as an attorney in Hawaii since 2008. Mr. Rapoza is currently the interim Vice Chancellor for Administrative Affairs for the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, and before that served as its Director of Human Resources. Your Committee further finds that Mr. Rapoza has served on the Board of Trustees of the Deferred Compensation Plan since 2007. Mr. Rapoza's experience and knowledge will continue to be assets to the Board of Trustees of the Deferred Compensation Plan. Your Committee therefore recommends that Mr. Rapoza be reappointed to the Board of Trustees of the Deferred Compensation Plan based on his experience, knowledge, and commitment to public service.

As affirmed by the records of votes of the members of your Committee on Labor, Culture and the Arts that are attached to this report, your Committee, after full consideration of the background, experience, and qualifications of the nominees, has found the nominees to be qualified for the positions to which nominated and recommends that the Senate advise and consent to the nominations.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Labor, Culture and the Arts,

____________________________

BRIAN T. TANIGUCHI, Chair