MEDIA RELEASE

The Governor’s West Hawaii Community Advisory Council meets Thursday, Feb. 19, 2009 at the NELHA Gateway Center. The meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. 

Dept of Land and Natural Resources Director Laura Thielen will address the Governor’s West Hawaii Community Advisory Council and community on the State of Hawaii’s Recreational Renaissance plan.  Reflecting a refocus on restoring and preserving Hawaii’s state parks, trails, and ocean recreation activities.   

Gov. Linda Lingle created community advisory councils to give the neighbor islands a stronger voice in state government.  The West Hawaii Community Advisory Council holds monthly public meetings to seek community input and advise the Governor of important issues, public priorities, and recommendations for state boards and commissions. 

Members of the Governor’s West Hawaii Community Advisory Council are Rick Vidgen, Estela Halverson, Lei Kihoi, Glennon Gingo, Dale Fergerstrom and Elaine Watai from Kona; Doug Carr from Waikoloa; Joanne Ralston from Kapa‘au; and Beverly Byouk from Ocean View. 

Anyone requiring special assistance or accommodations to participate at this meeting may call 327-4953.  For additional information on neighbor island councils of advisors, including meeting minutes and agendas, visit the Governor’s Web site at www.hawaii.gov/gov.