Hannemann prepares
work on transition

Mayor-elect Mufi Hannemann will move into an office at the Honolulu Municipal Building next week as he creates his administration, which takes over city government in January.

Hannemann said he is grateful to outgoing Mayor Jeremy Harris for offering the transition office space during a two-hour meeting between the two yesterday.

"Because we probably would have had to operate out of our Dole Cannery (campaign) headquarters. And that would have been very difficult," Hannemann said.

In Tuesday's general election, Hannemann narrowly defeated former City Councilman Duke Bainum.

In addition to the help from the Harris administration, Hannemann said he is also consulting former Mayor Frank Fasi and former Gov. John Waihee on how to have a smooth transition.

He said his first order of business is to begin selecting members of his Cabinet and anticipates some difficulty in attracting qualified people because of the low salaries. Anyone is welcome to apply, including members of the current administration.

Hannemann said he and Harris have not discussed any issues other than the transition. However, more meetings are planned.

Hannemann has already publicly voiced his opposition to some Harris initiatives like the restoration of the Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium and Bus Rapid Transit.

"He's still the mayor until Dec. 31st," Hannemann said. "So I respect his prerogative to try to do what he needs to do. But I also have my concerns."

He is pleased with the level of cooperation Harris is offering, saying the cooperation is also extending to their wives, who are scheduled to meet to discuss first lady duties.