HONOLULU -- The University of Hawaii on Friday released the final negotiating letter addressing coach June Jones' concerns before he decided to take a job at Southern Methodist University.

Jones outlined several issues he had at the school including: facility conditions, assistant coaches' salaries and recruiting funding.

University officials said they assured Jones that they would address the issues. The letter signed by UH President David McClain, Manoa Chancellor Virginia Hinshaw and former UH Athletic Director Herman Frazier shows some of the details they promised.

"We want to assure you that the ability to address your concerns quickly can be accomplished at this time - the "Manoa Moment" is real and it is now," the letter said. Read Letter

The letter focused on seven points. They include: coaches' offices, athletic facility repairs, generating new revenue sources, coaches' salaries, recruiting budget, expanding Asian connections and streamlining the process of getting things done.

The letter also appealed to Jones' potential legacy at the school, evoking the name of legendary Penn State head coach Joe Paterno.

"We sincerely believe that by remaining in Hawai‘i and fulfilling your vision you will have the opportunity to transform the lives of thousands of student-athletes and create a Paterno-esque legacy known across the nation and around the world," the letter stated.

Jones said it was difficult to make his decision to leave. However, he said, while the school made promises to address the problems he raised, he wanted to take on a new challenge at this point in his life.

Jones takes the lead of an SMU team that finished 1-11 this past season with no wins in Conference USA.

Hawaii is working to interview coaching candidates to replace Jones. More than 30 coaches have applied, officials said.

McClain said he is willing to pay a coach up to $1.3 million a year, which is what the school offered Jones.

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• Jan. 11, 2008: UH Mânoa Chancellor Appoints Selection Committee