By Staff Reports

(Wailuku) – The public is invited to register for the next month’s Hawaii State Association of Counties conference for a unique opportunity to learn about issues facing county governments and residents across the state, Maui County Councilmember Michael P. Victorino announced.

Victorino, who serves as HSAC’s treasurer, said the event will be held June 12-13 at the Moana Surfrider in Waikiki. Online registration and the conference schedule are available at www.HSAC-2014.eventbrite.com.

This year’s HSAC conference theme is “He Malama Puwalu,” or “United in Service,” and will feature opening remarks by Gov. Neil Abercrombie, Honolulu City Councilmember Stanley Chang and Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell.

“I look forward to learning from esteemed speakers, and having an opportunity to talk with colleagues and members of the public from throughout the state.” Victorino said. “I encourage all in both government and the private sector to attend this important annual event and exchange ideas.”

Victorino said the early-registration fee of $200 is available through tomorrow. Registration includes admission to all meetings, workshops and meals, including the welcome reception on the evening of June 12.

The June 12 luncheon speaker is Leslie Wilkins, Vice President of the Maui Economic Development Board, who will address “Workforce for the 21st Century.” Earlier in the day, political analyst Dan Boylan will provide a recap of the 2014 state legislative session.

Other conference highlights include a panel discussion on clean energy goals for the state and workshops relating to the visitor industry, the global economy, climate change and leadership.

Misty Kela`i, director of the Office of Culture and the Arts for the City and County of Honolulu, will give the opening pule at the welcome reception, and the Royal Hawaiian Band Glee Club will provide entertainment. The mistress of ceremonies is Sherry Menor-McNamara, CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii.

The conference concludes with tours of Oceanit Laboratories in Downtown Honolulu and the Kawailoa Wind Farm on Oahu’s North Shore on June 13, Victorino said.

Student and government discounts are available. For inquiries, call Brandon Mitsuda at (808) 768-5091 or email mailto:mbmitsuda@honolulu.gov.

All four Hawaii counties belong to HSAC, a nonprofit organization affiliated with the National Association of Counties. For HSAC Conference news on social media, follow #HSAC2014.