The Waimanalo Health Center's board has fired Executive Director Kawahine Kamakea-Ohelo, who faces allegations of misuse of state and federal funds intended for the center. Waimanalo Health Center
fires executive director
By Rosemarie Bernardo
rbernardo@starbulletin.comTwo-thirds of the center's board voted to fire her on Tuesday, according to a written statement. Board members stated that she was given the option of resigning in lieu of termination, but she decided against it.
"Kawahine's many years of dedicated service to the health center was fully discussed and carefully weighed in light of the evidence presented," board members said in the statement.
The board had suspended Kamakea-Ohelo on Dec. 5 without pay.
Kamakea-Ohelo could not be reached for comment.
According to the board's statement, Kamakea-Ohelo was allowed to present her side of the story on Dec. 27 and 30 to the center's board of directors regarding the alleged mismanagement of the center's credit cards.
Kamakea-Ohelo's lawyer, Rodney Veary, said she is preparing to meet with investigators from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services concerning the credit card statements.
"She plans to cooperate fully with the federal investigation," Veary said.
Board members stated they "regret that this action had to be taken."
Last month, Sen. Fred Hemmings (R, Kailua-Waimanalo-Portlock) said he received information from former employees on questionable transactions made by Kamakea-Ohelo.
Hemmings pointed out bank statements and check receipts that showed Kamakea-Ohelo spent between $3,000 and $10,000 monthly on food, clothing and trips for herself and gifts for family. Some of the purchases were made at Famous Footwear, Sizzler in Kailua and Blockbuster Video.
"I'm most pleased that the board took definite actions," Hemming said. "I don't think that the recently terminated executive director operated in a vacuum. I believe that additional work needs to be done."
Dr. Charman Akina will continue to be the center's interim executive director as board members search for a permanent replacement.
