There needs to be more of a philosophical examination as to what the City and it's leaders want from a "Ethics Commission". Obviously at this point there is some disagreement between the Mayor, members of the council and the residents that are served by both bodies, as to how much "spirit", if you will, the Honolulu Ethics Commission should have over city government matters. 

Once that focus is set, then you can and should have an audit to see if and how the Commission should be changed to effectuate that vision. Without that vision, an audit will not provide the necessary guidance to effectuate the changes necessary to make the Commission and it's office effective.