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Agenda Item

GREAT-16 Bill 132 (2023) BILL 132 (2023), RELATING TO AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY CLERK TO MAKE CORRECTIONS AND DELETE INOPERATIVE PROVISIONS IN THE REVISED CHARTER OF THE COUNTY OF MAUI (1983), AS AMENDED (GREAT-16)

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    Guest User 9 months ago

    Testimony regarding Bill 132 (2023)

    Subject: Testimony on Inefficiencies and the Need for Restructuring in Maui's Department of Public Works (DPW) and Department of Transportation

    Dear GREAT committee members,
    I am writing to bring attention to the apparent inefficiencies between the Department of Public Works (DPW) and the Department of Transportation in Maui. Having closely observed the responsibilities outlined for each department, I believe that a clearer definition and reassignment of duties within the Transportation department could result in increased efficiency, allowing DPW to focus on vital public works projects important to our communities.
    Current Scenario:
    As per the current delineation of responsibilities, DPW is tasked with planning, designing, building, and maintaining the county's highways, drainage, and flood control systems. Simultaneously, the Department of Transportation holds administrative authority over all modes of transportation in Maui County. This includes planning, implementation, and coordination of transportation programs across air, water, and land.
    Identified Inefficiencies:
    The existing structure poses challenges due to overlapping responsibilities, causing potential confusion and mismanagement of resources. This lack of specialization may hinder the efficient execution of both public works and transportation projects.
    Recommendation for Restructuring:
    I propose a reassignment of duties to streamline the workflow and enhance efficiency. By concentrating DPW's efforts solely on highways, drainage, and flood control, and empowering the Department of Transportation to lead in planning and implementing all transportation modes, we can achieve the following benefits:
    Specialized Focus: DPW can dedicate its resources and expertise to the improvement and maintenance of critical public works projects, ensuring their optimal functionality.
    Enhanced Expertise: The Department of Transportation can develop specialized skills in comprehensive transportation planning, resulting in more informed and effective decision-making.
    Streamlined Project Execution: Clear demarcation of responsibilities will lead to faster, more efficient decision-making, reducing delays in project execution.
    Anticipated Benefits:
    Improved collaboration through regular communication and joint planning sessions.
    Increased accountability with clear responsibilities and reporting mechanisms.
    A transparent and efficient system for project execution, benefitting the Maui community.
    Conclusion:
    Addressing the inefficiencies between DPW and the Department of Transportation is crucial for the overall development of Maui. I urge the committee to consider redefining each of the Department's responsibilities In Bill 132 and consider proposed restructuring, which promises a more focused and efficient approach to public works and transportation projects, ultimately benefiting our communities.

    Thank you for your time and consideration.

    Sincerely,

    --
    Lee A. Chamberlain
    lachamb91@gmail.com
    (925) 917 1994

    "The optimist expects the wind;
    the pessimist complains about the wind;
    the realist adjusts the sails."