Yogi confirmed as state human resources chief

By Lynda Arakawa
Advertiser Capitol Bureau

A day and a half after helping bring an end to the teachers' strike, state chief negotiator Davis Yogi yesterday won Senate confirmation as director of the Department of Human Resources Development.

Davis Yogi was praised for his role in the state's recent settlement with the HSTA. Advertiser library photo

The Senate had postponed the floor vote twice because of the strikes.

"The difficulties of the negotiations — now that they have been successfully concluded — I believe will really prove to have been that type of crucible which produces stronger people and stronger relationships, and to his credit I think Mr. Yogi has helped in that process," said Senate Labor Committee Chairman Bob Nakata, D-23rd (Kane'ohe, Kahuku).

Nakata also praised Yogi's management style, saying that he has seen Yogi's staff "move with the freedom and authority he has given them" in implementing civil service reform initiatives.

While Nakata said Yogi's dual role as state chief negotiator and head of the human resources department is "something that still needs to be addressed," he added that "as far as Mr. Yogi is concerned, I believe he has successfully been carrying out both responsibilities."

Senate Majority Co-leader Jonathan Chun, D-7th (S. Kaua'i, Ni'ihau) also cited Yogi's knowledge in public and private sector labor laws and his knowledge of the civil service system.

Senate Minority Leader Sam Slom, R-8th (Wai'alae Iki, Hawai'i-kai), said he supports Yogi, but that questions remain about one person having dual responsibilities. Slom also noted that at Yogi's confirmation hearing — held before the strikes — the University of Hawai'i Professional Assembly questioned Yogi's dual role and that the Hawaii State Teachers Association did not submit testimony.

Yogi has told the Labor Committee he has handled his dual responsibilities with the help of office staff.