Palafox leaves medical school post

Dr. Neal Palafox, who was asked by the governor to give up the state health director nomination in January, has now stepped down as lead administrative director and chairman of the Medicine Department of Family Medicine and Community Health at the John A. Burns School of Medicine.

Spokeswoman Tina Shelton said Palafox made the request on April 18, and it has been approved by Dr. Jerris Hedges, medical school professor and dean.

No details were given on why Palafox stepped down.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie also has not said why he asked Palafox to withdraw his nomination as health director.

A television news report, citing unnamed sources, said Palafox was involved in a medical reimbursement investigation. Palafox has said he was not aware of an investigation.

NEIGHBOR ISLANDS

County will raise rates for sewers

Kauai County sewer rates will rise incrementally over four years starting in July, the Department of Public Works said Wednesday.

Residential rates for single-family dwellings will go from $45 per month to $47.86 this year, $51.73 in 2012, $55.81 in 2013 and $60.09 in 2014.

The Department of Public Works said costs to operate the sewer system continue to climb but that there has not been a rate increase since 2004.