“The commission only meets every ten years, so please take advantage of this unique opportunity,” said Mayor Alan Arakawa.

WAILUKU — Mayor Alan Arakawa said the public can directly impact government by submitting proposals to County Charter Commission members.

Residents, business owners and other members of the community can make positive suggestions to change current county ordinances or propose new ones.

If Charter Commission members reach a consensus to place proposals on the ballot, they have the chance to be voted by the public and become law.

“People are always sharing with me their concerns about the need to review certain county regulations,” said Arakawa. “For example, there are restaurant owners who want liquor laws changed, construction companies that want county codes updated — you name it.”

“Now is the time for them to present their issues before the Charter Commission. They will listen and weigh the merits of each proposal.”

Charter Commission meetings will begin at 6:30 p.m. and run no longer than 9:30 p.m. Maui meetings will be held Wednesday, June 8, at Hannibal Tavares Center in Pukalani; Monday, June 13, at Kahului Community Center; Tuesday, June 21, at Paia Community Center; Tuesday, June 28, at Lahaina Civic Center; Tuesday, July 5, at Helene Hall in Hana; and Monday, July 25, at Kihei Community Center.

Testimony will be received at the meetings, as well as by e-mail and mail.

The commissioners usually meet every second and fourth Monday of the month from noon to 4 p.m. in the Planning Department Conference Room at the Maui County Kalana Pakui Building off High Street.

Members of the public may also testify and submit proposals during Charter Commission meetings. The next meeting is scheduled for June 13.

For more information, call the Department of the Corporation Counsel at 270-7742 or visit http://www.mauicounty.gov/chartercommission.