Hawaii House Bill HB1719

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/22
• Refer: 1/26/22
• Report Pass: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/14/22

Caption

Relating To The Ala Wai Boat Harbor.

Impact

The bill amends Section 103-7 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, allowing the division of boating and ocean recreation greater flexibility in facilitating repairs and construction at the Ala Wai Boat Harbor. Notably, it exempts capital improvement projects for the harbor from the requirement of prior authorization by the legislature and the governor, which is generally needed for state-funded capital projects. This change aims to expedite necessary repairs without the typical legislative delays.

Summary

House Bill 1719 relates to the Ala Wai Boat Harbor, the largest small boat and yacht harbor in Hawaii, which is in dire need of repairs. The bill recognizes the historical significance of the harbor and aims to address the challenges faced in securing proposals for its redevelopment. Several attempts to redevelop the harbor in the past have not yielded successful results, leading to the decision to provide immediate support for repairs to maintain its attractiveness and safety for both residents and visitors.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1719 appears to be positive, with support for prioritizing the harbor's repairs recognized as crucial for maintaining a key recreational and economic asset for the state. Legislators have emphasized the importance of quick action to preserve the harbor for leisure activities and tourism, showcasing a collaborative effort toward state improvements.

Contention

Despite the bill's overall support, there may be underlying concerns regarding the lack of legislative oversight for spending on such a significant public asset. Some lawmakers may argue that bypassing the usual approval processes could lead to mismanagement or unsatisfactory use of state resources. However, the immediate need for repairs might be seen as a justification for this approach.