State Auditor Marion Higa's recent findings on the state of University of Hawai'i-Manoa dormitories were far from glowing. In fact, they were downright scathing.

Not even the folks at the University of Hawai'i-Manoa are disputing her statement that the university "lacks a comprehensive maintenance and repair plan for its residence halls." Nor are they arguing her claim that the management staff has been inefficient, thus leading to the estimated $45 million backlog in repairs needed for the university's nine dorms and two apartment complexes.

Such findings demand attention, especially when it comes to the safety of students.

But in fixing these major problems, the university should not create an even bigger one for itself. That's exactly what would happen if it were to follow one of the report's suggestions: Reduce or abandon plans for a new 814-bed dormitory construction project. This suggestion undermines all efforts on the university's part to create a community-based campus.

Dormitories are an essential part of the college experience; they must be maintained and expanded to bring new students in and prevent existing ones from leaving.

Francisco Hernandez, UH-Manoa vice chancellor for students, says $40 million will be spent on repairs for student housing. And the university has increased campus lighting between the dorms and the main campus for safety.

These are all steps in the right direction. And to be sure, there are a host of other possibilities, including privatizing student housing altogether.

The audit was instrumental in highlighting the urgency for improved campus housing. The university must address these problems and go forward with plans to create new dormitories — something that will ensure the ongoing success of the state's university.