Hawaii House Bill HCR43

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/22
• Refer: 3/10/22

Caption

Requesting Hawaiian Electric Company To Conduct A Study To Identify And Remove Any Redundant Utility Poles On Oahu.

Impact

The primary objective of HCR43 is to enhance both public safety and the aesthetic appearance of Oahu's neighborhoods by removing these redundant poles. The resolution highlights that old utility poles can pose hazards due to their poor structural integrity, especially during adverse weather conditions, as well as create unsightly views in residential areas. Consequently, the removal of these poles is seen as a measure to improve public safety and contribute to the beautification of the environment.

Summary

HCR43 is a House Concurrent Resolution from the State of Hawaii, which requests the Hawaiian Electric Company to conduct a study aiming to identify and remove redundant utility poles on the island of Oahu. The resolution recognizes that Hawaiian Electric accommodates an extensive network of over 100,000 utility poles, which often leads to a situation known as 'double poles'. This occurs when new poles are installed next to existing ones for the purpose of transferring essential utility lines, leaving the original poles standing and creating unnecessary redundancy in the infrastructure.

Contention

Although HCR43 primarily appears to advocate for safety and aesthetics, it also raises an important point of contention regarding utility management and the approach to public infrastructure. Critics may question the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of undertaking such a study and subsequent actions, as well as the responsibility of Hawaiian Electric in managing its utility poles. The resolution requests that the study not only focuses on identifying poles for removal but also considers ways to increase efficiency in the removal process, an aspect that could lead to discussions on operational practices and public utility expenditures.