Satellite city halls cut hours

Advertiser Staff

O'ahu's satellite city halls will close earlier beginning tomorrow because of a "very austere budget," city spokeswoman Carol Costa said Friday.

The satellites at Ala Moana and Pearlridge centers and Windward Mall will close 45 minutes earlier. New hours will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. People in line at closing time will be served.

Satellite city halls in Kalihi, Kailua, Kapolei, Wahiawa, Wai'anae, Waipahu and Fort Street Mall will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Costa said the adjustments were the only way to keep operating costs under control. "We try very hard to accommodate our customers, but in serving the surge of people who arrive at closing, overtime costs have mounted," she said.

People should plan ahead, she noted. "The end of the month is especially hectic, because many motorists wait until the last minute instead of renewing (motor vehicle licenses) by mail or online at www.hiplates.com."