It may be a little early for the community to weigh in officially on the preliminary — very preliminary — proposal to redevelop Ke'ehi Lagoon, one of the few ocean recreation centers in O'ahu's central urban core.

But early is better than too late, so here's hoping the state is listening to the concerns of paddling coach Scottie Thompson:

"This would affect the entire paddling community on O'ahu," said Thompson, who heads the Kamamalahoe Canoe Club. "It would be nice if they would include us in the discussions."

The Lingle administration is dusting off a 1989 environmental impact statement on a proposal for a major upgrade and reshaping of the lagoon, even carving out space for light-industrial use.

The idea, said Gov. Linda Lingle's chief of staff, Barry Fukunaga, is to see whether that plan has enough merit to spark the investment of state resources in construction that can improve harbor facilities and boost a slow economy.

A study group, including officials of the state's business, transportation and land agencies, plans to circle back with the community once it gets closer to answers about the project's current fit, given changes in homeland security laws and other issues.

One thing hasn't changed, however: West Honolulu residents have few options where ocean recreation is concerned. It would be wise to include their input sooner rather than later.