HILO – The Governor's East Hawai'i Community Advisory Council will meet at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 24, in UCB room 127 on the University of Hawai'i - Hilo campus. The public is invited to attend.

Jill Cooper, policy analyst for Gov. Linda Lingle, will provide a legislative update to the Council and community regarding important bills moving through the Legislature as the legislative session nears adjournment on May 1. Cooper will discuss the administration's proposals as well as other bills that could significantly affect the people of Hawai'i. A question-and-answer period will follow the presentation.

Lingle created the community advisory councils to give the neighbor islands a stronger voice in state government. The East 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.

The members of the Governor's East Hawaii Community Advisory Council are Ken Ah Lo, Andy Baclig, Julie Hugo, Alton Okinaka, Greg Ruhland, Norman Stahl, Carol VanCamp and Jennifer Zelko.

Anyone requiring special assistance or accommodations to participate at this meeting may call (808) 974-6262. For additional information on Neighbor Island Community Advisory Councils, including meeting minutes and agendas, visit the Governor's Web site at www.hawaii.gov/gov.