MEDIA RELEASE

The Hawaii County Charter is by far the most important document of the county. It regulates how county government functions. All three branches are considered in the Charter and therefore any amendment to the Charter can have a huge effect on the island’s future.

The last public hearing is scheduled at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9 at the Hilo Council Chambers. Residents may testify in person or may submit written testimony to: keoff@co.hawaii.hi.us.

Among the latest proposed Charter amendments proposed by the Charter Commission:

* Comm. 33: Extending council member terms from two to four years.

* Comm. 40: Establishing independent funding for the legislative auditor.

* Comm. 44: Establishing standing committees and re-enforcing agenda publishing for better public transparency.

* Comm. 45: Re-enforcing the deposit of monies into the 2% Land Fund

* Comm. 46: Amending how to fill vacant council (elected) positions and allowing the candidate with the second most votes to serve.