Concerns over employee privacy and public scrutiny dominated the Maui County Council meeting on June 6, 2025, as council members debated proposed amendments affecting staff evaluations and salary adjustments. The discussions highlighted the tension between transparency and the potential for public shaming of employees.

Council member Polzin expressed strong opposition to the amendment, arguing that it could lead to a "public spectacle" for staff who did not sign up for such scrutiny. "Imagine if you did something great or bad, and they come and say, 'Oh, well, their attendance has been absent 85% of the time,'" Polzin stated, emphasizing the negative impact this could have on employee morale and retention. He warned that the amendment could drive away talented staff, who might reconsider their positions if they felt their performance was subject to public debate.

Director Roth clarified that if the amendment passed, staff would retain their current salary steps, but any changes would require council approval. This raised questions about the frequency and criteria for salary adjustments, with council members seeking clarity on how often employees are moved up or down the pay scale.

The conversation also touched on the broader implications of the proposed changes. Council member Rollins Fernandez pointed out that the lack of job security for certain staff could deter qualified candidates from applying for positions. "If this is removed, our current employees might consider finishing off their term and not coming back," she warned, advocating for protections that would help retain quality staff.

While some council members supported the amendment for the sake of transparency, others cautioned against micromanagement and the potential inefficiencies it could introduce. "We hardly have any vacancies," one member noted, questioning the need for changes to a system that appears to be functioning well.

As the council prepared to vote, the discussions underscored a critical balancing act: ensuring accountability and transparency while protecting employees from undue public scrutiny. The outcome of this debate could significantly impact the county's ability to attract and retain skilled workers in the future.