The Honolulu City Council's budget committee is questioning the money being spent on public relations efforts for the rail project.
A resolution calls for the city auditor to look into whether all of the employees are needed and whether the spending is justified.
The Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported Tuesday Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Executive Director Daniel Grabauskas says it appears the city is spending $2 million a year on staff and contracted public outreach efforts. He says the amount seems high.
Budget Chairwoman Ann Kobayashi wants to know why the 20-mile rail project needs a lot of PR.
Grabauskas says he's looking into that and what can be streamlined.
Councilwoman Tulsi Gabbard questioned a pro-rail blogger receiving taxpayer funds through a rail subcontract. She says it raises legal issues.