The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has stated that they would like to have the right to develop 3 or 4 condominium towers on land that they own in Kakaako Makai. Under the amended bill that passed through two Senate committees, they would restrict housing to three inland parcels of the nine lots that were given to them by the state two years ago as a settlement for disputed claims over unpaid ceded land revenue. The amended bill also increases the development height limit for the two parcels that front Ala Moana Boulevard to 400 feet from 200 feet.
OHA official submitted written testimony that stated, "We seek to find the highest point at which the culturally rich use of our Kakaako Makai lands intersects with revenue-generating use of the parcels. We understand better than any other developer the impacts of irresponsible development. Native Hawaiians have been victims of, and suffered most from, the consequences of reckless development."
Homelani Schaedel, an OHA beneficiary, added, "While we will hear voices who oppose the passage of this bill, it is time for all to hear (that) we are tired of being told what we can or cannot do, or what we should and should not do with our lands. I ask all here to remember, it was our ancestors who walked and worked these lands. They taught us how to be good stewards of the aina (land). We agree Kakaako Makai is for the benefit of Native Hawaiians. What we may not agree on is how it should be developed. That kuleana (responsibility) rests on the shoulders of OHA and its trustees. Do not tie their hands."
The Senate bill will now move to the Judiciary Committee. If passed it will move to various House committees.
Source: Honolulu Star Advertiser, 2-13-2014, www.staradvertiser.com
Posted by Jeff Uyemura-Reyes, Principal Broker, REALTOR®
Global Executive Realty, LLC
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