Finally, some action seems imminent that could strengthen University of Hawai'i campus security.

More and better-trained security staff are being sought by university administrators. Other improvements on the wish list include surveillance cameras and better lighting where students and others cross the Manoa campus.

Some element of this initiative by UH interim President David McClain deserves financial support from lawmakers. Officials may lack the money to expand the force, but it can provide tools to heighten guard effectiveness.

Specifically, they should give serious consideration to McClain's proposal that campus security function more like a campus police force. Giving them training — but not arms — could prepare them to intervene safely in nuisance situations before they escalate, especially if they're authorized to issue citations leading to fines for drunken behavior or other infractions. Ability to issue citations might produce more practical results than giving the guards arrest power; there's no secured detention area for detainees, anyway.

Recently, the Police Department has begun discussions that could lead to sheriffs taking over the primary enforcement duties at prisons and other state facilities. Surely public safety could be enhanced through deputizing campus security in some way. Those who work to make the campus safe should have that status.