The legislation amends Chapter 46 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, obligating each county to assess various factors contributing to housing demands, including population and employment trends, household incomes, and existing housing conditions. Counties must tackle both governmental and non-governmental constraints affecting housing development, such as land use controls and financing issues, thereby facilitating an environment where housing can be constructed or rehabilitated to meet the needs of diverse income groups. The bill allocates $2 million in state funds to support the counties in executing these housing plans, underlining the state’s commitment to addressing housing challenges.
Summary
SB2247, also known as the Housing Supply Plan Act, addresses the critical shortage of affordable housing in Hawaii, emphasizing the need for proactive measures by counties to meet housing demands across all income levels. The bill requires each county to develop a comprehensive housing supply plan that forecasts future housing needs, identifies suitable sites for development, and assesses resources and constraints that impact housing production. By mandating local governments to engage in robust housing planning, the bill aims to ensure that new housing units are built in alignment with anticipated population growth through 2025.
Contention
One notable aspect of SB2247 is its requirement for counties to include a maximum proposed number of housing units by income category in their housing supply plans and to detail actions required for site acquisition. The inclusion of a specific analysis of special housing needs—such as for the elderly, persons with disabilities, and large families—reflects an understanding of the varied demographic challenges. However, the bill may face scrutiny regarding its effectiveness in genuinely incentivizing construction, as local governments might encounter resistance due to existing political and economic constraints.