The Honolulu Liquor Commission yesterday announced the hiring of attorney Dewey Kim Jr. as the new Liquor Control administrator.

Kim, 52, begins his duties on Monday. The naming of a new administrator is seen as a key to helping clean up an agency that has been accused of lax management and was rocked by corruption in 2000 and 2001.

"After completing an extensive and thorough review of candidates during the past few months, we are pleased to announce the hiring of Dewey Kim Jr.," said commission chairman Dennis Enomoto. "His experience in management, law and investigations are important assets for the commission as we move forward with our strategic plan."

Wallace Weatherwax resigned as administrator last year after he was stripped of his duties.

Enomoto praised Anna Hirai for an "excellent job" as acting administrator for the past nine months and said she will continue as special assistant to the administrator, a position she has held since 2000.

Kim said he looks forward to taking on the job of liquor regulation for Honolulu.

"As a trial attorney, both as a plaintiff's and defense counsel, I have seen first-hand the impact that alcohol-related accidents can create," Kim said. "We also will be working with nonprofit groups, schools and other agencies to help educate the community about the dangers of illegal underage drinking."

The position has a salary range of $5,973 to $7,195 per month.

Reach Robbie Dingeman at rdingeman@honoluluadvertiser.com.