The repeal of Act 15 represents a significant shift in the management of state parks, particularly in how community engagement and planning related to the Kahana Valley living park will proceed. This bill highlights a recognition by state authorities that the current structure has not effectively addressed the needs of the community or brought forth a viable master plan for the park, thereby indicating a potential pivot towards finding alternative methods for park management.
Summary
SB1183 aims to repeal Act 15 of the Special Session Laws of Hawaii 2009, which authorized the establishment of living park planning councils in order to develop a master plan for living parks. Over ten years, the Kahana Valley council struggled to reach consensus or create a functional framework for this purpose, leading to a determination by the Department of Land and Natural Resources that the council is no longer effective. Given the complexities of community-based planning and the lack of consistent participation, this bill seeks to eliminate what has proven to be an unproductive entity.
Contention
While the bill seeks to streamline and eliminate ineffective bodies, it may raise concerns among residents who were hopeful for a community-driven approach in the management and planning of living parks. The absence of an established planning council could limit opportunities for local participation and input regarding the future of Kahana Valley, sparking discussions about the balance between state authority and local community involvement.