The lead state archaeologist for Maui, Lanai, Kahoolawe and the Big Island has resigned. That's adding to the backlog of developers trying to get building permits.
Melissa Kirkendall resigned from the State Historic Preservation Division on Saturday.
In her resignation letter, Kirkendall says problems within the state agency are so severe they prevent staff from meeting their ethical obligations.
Her departure leaves one state archaeologist on Maui, none on the Big Island and none on Oahu to review studies needed to process grading permits.
The Historic Preservation is the state agency that reviews development plans to ensure that historic, cultural and burial sites are protected.
That's the whole thing.