By Gordon Y.K. Pang
Advertiser Staff Writer

Q. Whom can I call to report what might be the misuse of a state vehicle? On a recent weekday, I saw a group of people in a state car parking at the beach, and it looked like they were planning to enjoy a day in the sun. If I report this, how can I be sure something will be done?

A. Misuse of state vehicles is handled by the Department of Accounting and General Services, which maintains the state motor pool. You can call 586-0343 with complaints.

George Okano, acting chief of the Automotive Management Division, said a complainant should get the license plate number so his staff can determine where the vehicle is assigned. Also helpful would be the location of the vehicle, the date and time, and a description of what you saw.

The complaint is forwarded to the agency, whose top officials determine whether disciplinary action is appropriate, Okano said. You could request a response to see how your complaint was handled. An agency has 10 days to report back to DAGS, Okano said.

Keep in mind that a number of state agencies allow some take-home vehicles. These are generally for government employees who are on call or need to respond to emergencies. Other personal uses of a government vehicle incidental to work also may be permitted.

Q. Is hitchhiking allowed on O'ahu?

A. Yes, city ordinances allow you to thumb a ride, but there are strict rules about how to do it legally. You can solicit rides from a city bus stop, or if there is not one within a reasonable distance, in an open area, but not while standing on a roadway. A person hitchhiking cannot "attempt to intimidate, threaten or otherwise annoy passing motorists." A violation of the section would result in a citation.

Maj. Bryan Wauke of the Honolulu Police Department's Traffic Division said hitchhiking has not been a priority and complaints are infrequent. "But that doesn't mean we won't enforce it if we have complaints," he said

Q. Are businesses and residences required to post their address numbers out front? I recently went along King Street seeking several addresses and couldn't find the numbers.

A. The city requires owners of commercial and residential structures to post their address numbers. The mayor's office suggests you call the Department of Planning and Permitting at 523-4432 to report a suspected violation. If an inspector confirms it, an owner will have a specified period (usually 30 to 60 days) to comply. Failure to do could result in a Notice of Order and incur penalties of up to $1,000 a day.

Do you ever get frustrated or confused trying to navigate the various layers of government? Are you looking for an answer to a simple question but can't figure out where to start? If you have a question or a problem and need help getting to the right person, you can reach The Bureaucracy Buster one of three ways:

• e-mail: buster@honoluluadvertiser.com

• Phone: 535-2454 and leave a message.

Be sure to give us your name and daytime telephone number.