HONOLULU – The Governor's West Hawai'i Community Advisory Council will meet at 5:30 p.m. April 17 at the Kona Community Hospital, Conference Room 2 at 79-1019 Haukapila St. in Kealakekua to hear Linda Smith, Gov. Linda Lingle's senior policy adviser who will discuss healthcare initiatives and legislative updates.

"The governor encourages the public to attend to share concerns or suggestions they may have regarding improving access to healthcare as well to discuss legislation currently being considered," said Andy Smith, the governor's West Hawai'i liaison.

Lingle created community advisory councils to give the Neighbor Islands a stronger voice in state government. The West Hawai'i 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 Hawai'i 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.