Traffic, schools and a weak economy are critical issues in Central O'ahu, a mix of communities that are mature — older Waipahu neighborhoods, Mililani and Waipi'o — as well as some of the newer, still-growing subdivisions of 'Ewa and Kunia.

Most are largely bedroom communities that, while on the fringes of the "second city," are still tied to urban Honolulu for employment. So traffic is a unifying concern.

Another is school facilities: Many Waipahu classrooms are crowded, and Royal Kunia is among the neighborhoods still waiting, with ebbing patience, for classrooms to be built.

The region needs capable leadership to shepherd its interests through challenging fiscal constraints.

In House District 38 (Mililani, Mililani Mauka), Democratic Rep. Marilyn Lee faces a Republican challenge from Melvin K. Apana, a veteran of construction trades now working in aquatic research.

The Advertiser endorses Lee for re-election. Lee is an effective leader who continues to perform well for her district.

She counts among her recent contributions the 10-classroom building at Mililani High School, and she vows to keep pace with traffic-related upgrades in problem areas such as Kipapa Gulch.

Lee's professional background as a nurse has informed her advocacy for statewide concerns such as long-term care, caregiver support and other family concerns. Lee, currently vice chair of the Finance Committee, has a consistent record of leadership positions that serves her well in advancing legislation. Her tenacity secured passage this year of a tougher law against leaving children unattended in cars.

Moving toward Waipahu, Democratic Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu, D-41st District (Waipahu, Village Park, Waikele), has demonstrated a useful ability to network in the House for the past six years, and is part of a team fulfilling community needs, including funds for the University of Hawai'i at West O'ahu's campus and improvements at Waipahu and Waikele area schools.

He faces a challenge from Rito Saniatan, an insurance broker and owner of other small businesses who's active in community affairs.

Karamatsu remains the stronger of the two candidates and merits another term.

As vice chair of the Water, Land, Ocean Resources and Hawaiian Affairs Committee, Karamatsu has shown leadership in agricultural issues important to his district.

But after dealing with a drunken-driving charge last fall, he owes his constituency a sharper focus on their needs.

In House District 42 (Waipahu, Hono'uli'uli, West Loch, 'Ewa), The Advertiser is not endorsing in this race. Incumbent Democrat Rida Cabanilla Arakawa faces a challenge from her former staffer, Tom Berg. Neither candidate has a sufficient record of accomplishment to merit an endorsement.

In the adjoining 35th House District (Pearl City, Waipahu), a vacant seat is sought by Democrat Henry Aquino, a program coordinator for the Waipahu Community Association, and Steven Antonio, a former staffer with Republican Majority Leader Lynn Finnegan.

Both are well rooted in the community, but Aquino has the more impressive record of grassroots involvement and the clearest plan of action. He will be a strong advocate for Waipahu's crowded schools in a time of fiscal constraint and supports strong marketing for tourism on which many in his district depend for jobs.

Central O'ahu voters have in these candidates representatives who will keep community service top of mind.