From Maui Now:

The House Committee on Water and Land has scheduled a hearing on Saturday, Feb. 9, to address issues surrounding the controversial Public Land Development Corporation.

Committee members say the hearing is being held in response to public frustration over the manner in which the body was created, how its rules were promulgated, the “broad powers” granted to the organization, and “lack of public input” in the process.

Rep. Kaniela Ing of South Maui said that while he recognizes the need for increased state revenues and improved public land efficiencies, he said “the goals must be achieved without posing a threat of undermining public input or skirting environmental regulations.”

The committee will weigh in on possible abolishment of the PLDC, or alternatives to achieve the original intent to generate revenue from public land.  The committee will hear bills that will either repeal the PLDC altogether, amend, or start from scratch to create a new agency. Read the full story.

And here’s the latest in other neighbor isle gov’t and politics:

Possible tsunami debris found off Nohili Point

Kauai schools look to be proactive to prevent bullying

Hawaii taxes burden poor

Mala Wharf, Lahaina boaters decry enforcement of mooring rules

Iseri-Carvalho: Vogt lawsuit is baseless

Land Board is next step for Thirty Meter Telescope

Some uneasy over Iao Square proposed makeover

Funds for Big Isle doctor residency program sought in Legislature

Maui County aims to enlist help of “fearless lady”

Hele-On buses adding stops in Hawaiian Paradise Park

Maui Brewing plans to expand

Hawaii Volcanoes names Makuakane-Jarrell chief of interpretation