Relating To Historic Preservation.
The introduction of HB 2378 allows for a more streamlined and responsive approach to historic preservation, enabling counties to delegate archaeological reviews to qualified professionals. This shift aims to alleviate bottlenecks at the state historic preservation division, which has faced criticism for delays in reviewing projects. By authorizing counties to engage their own archaeologists, the bill facilitates the construction of housing projects that intersect with historical preservation requirements, thereby addressing a pressing need for affordable housing in the state.
House Bill 2378 seeks to enhance the efficiency of historic preservation reviews within the state of Hawaii, particularly aimed at expediting affordable housing projects that are often stalled due to lengthy approval processes. The bill enables counties to employ qualified archaeologists to conduct necessary archaeological reviews required under chapter 6E of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. This would allow for more localized and potentially faster examinations of projects that may affect historic properties or burial sites.
While the bill is generally seen as a positive development for affordable housing advocates and those wishing to see more efficient project approvals, there may be concerns surrounding the oversight and quality of archaeological reviews conducted by county-employed archaeologists. Critics might argue that local officials may prioritize construction over proper historical assessments. Additionally, there could be debates over the qualifications required for archaeologists employed by the counties, as these standards will directly influence the integrity of historical site evaluations.
HB 2378 is designed to take effect immediately upon approval, reflecting an urgent need to address the existing barriers to affordable housing development in the face of historic preservation laws. The bill sets forth timelines for review and approval processes, aiming to ensure that if reviews are not completed within 30 days, they are automatically deemed approved. This aspect highlights an intent to foster a proactive and facilitative governance approach while maintaining necessary historical considerations.