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Fire chief receives
glowing evaluation
from commission

Attilio Leonardi earns a perfect
grade for his managerial skills

By Rod Ohira
Star-Bulletin

Fire Chief Attilio Leonardi has received a near-perfect first report card from a commission evaluating his performance.

"He has demonstrated that he is an energetic, creative, resourceful and effective leader," Sandra Au Fong, Honolulu Fire Commission chairwoman, concluded in a Jan. 13 evaluation report sent to Mayor Jeremy Harris and City Council Chairman Jon Yoshimura.

Leonardi, the first chief appointed by the Fire Commission, assumed command in April 1998.

In evaluating his performance, commissioners gave Leonardi perfect 5, or "exemplary," grades for managerial skills and a willingness to work with the commission.

For leadership qualities, Leonardi received a rating of 4.78, or "exceeds expectations."

On "personal and professional traits," which was not graded, the commission praised Leonardi for improving job knowledge, accepting feedback and gaining the trust and confidence of others.

In evaluating managerial skills, the commission considered organizational structure, goals and objectives, delegation of authority, personnel and staffing, budget and fiscal matters, communication skills, training and development, and community relations.

"The Fire Commission has been particularly impressed with the series of workshops for chief officers and captains, as well as the open forums for all personnel," the report said.

For the leadership grade, the commission looked at effectiveness and competence, positive attitude and morale, personal and departmental integrity, creativity, relationship and openness.

"There have been few complaints and, from all appearances, HFD morale is very good," the report said.