The Honolulu Liquor Commission (HLC) is in the process of finding a new senior-level executive, as announced by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, with the current assistant administrator Anna Hirai stepping down later this year. This comes at a pivotal time for the agency, which has been under scrutiny and facing the task of rebuilding public trust. The new assistant administrator will be responsible for the day-to-day operations, including managing liquor license applications and renewals, as well as overseeing investigative and enforcement activities.
This leadership transition is particularly crucial given the HLC's recent history. Administrator Sal Petilos, who took the helm in 2023, inherited an agency grappling with low morale, understaffing, and allegations of misconduct among its investigators. The HLC has also dealt with lawsuits, including a federal case filed by the owners of a Chinatown nightclub, alleging discriminatory behavior. This lawsuit was tentatively settled, with the agreement mandating operational improvements such as modernizing processes and enhancing staff training Honolulu Star-Advertiser.
The new assistant administrator will need to prioritize several key areas. According to the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, the HLC is seeking
