After a lengthy national search for a permanent manager, the Aloha Stadium Authority voted 9-0 yesterday to offer the job to interim stadium manager Scott Chan.

Chan, 48, said he has yet to decide on accepting the $81,463 position.

"I'm honored," Chan said at the meeting at Aloha Stadium. "I appreciate the support that I've been given from this board. I will do what's best for this facility and for the state as well.

"I wish I could give you a decision today," Chan added. "But I need to think about that. There are some things that need to be addressed before I can really make a commitment and move forward. I will get back to you as soon as possible."

The Aloha Stadium Authority praised Chan's handling of daily operations at the state's premier multi-purpose outdoor facility, which hosts various high-profile events, including the University of Hawai'i football team, the NFL's Pro Bowl, and the swap meet.

The Aloha Stadium Authority had conducted two rounds of searches spanning nearly two years for a new stadium manager. The recent national search drew about 14 to 15 applicants, mostly promoters. Chan, who has worked at the stadium for 11 years, was one of the original applicants and finalists.

"We have chosen who we feel is the most qualified applicant," board member Kathryn Inouye said of Chan. "I think we've all seen he's very capable of operating the stadium."

Said board member Kay Ahina: "I'm convinced that he is the right person right now to be our stadium manager."

The Aloha Stadium Authority also is expected to hire a marketing expert and a deputy manager.

Aloha Stadium has been without a permanent manager since Eddie Hayashi retired on Oct. 1, 2005. Hayashi served 12 years as stadium manager.

Following Hayashi's retirement, Ken Lum took over the position on an interim basis. Lum announced his resignation April 9 after he was asked to step down by a high-ranking member of Gov. Linda Lingle's administration.

PRO BOWL CHANGES?

According to an Associated Press story yesterday, there has been some talk by the NFL of changing the date of the Pro Bowl, perhaps to the weekend before the Super Bowl to get more fan attention. There are three years left on the league's contract to play the game in Hawai'i, but the league is allowed to move it in one of those years.

Chan said the stadium and the NFL have had talks on the issue. Chan said that the stadium is entertaining different dates for the Pro Bowl.

Chan added that the stadium is flexible on the dates.

Reach Brandon Masuoka at bmasuoka@honoluluadvertiser.com.