Relating To The Transfer Of Non-agricultural Park Lands.
The implementation of SB2993 will amend Section 166E-3 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to clarify the responsibilities and procedures regarding these land transfers. It will enhance the management of non-agricultural park lands by placing them under the jurisdiction of the Department of Agriculture, which is tasked with creating a distinct program for their administration. The newly adopted rules will apply separately from those governing agricultural park lands, ensuring a tailored management approach for the non-agricultural parks.
SB2993 aims to streamline the transfer of non-agricultural park lands from the Department of Land and Natural Resources to the Department of Agriculture in Hawaii. The bill establishes a deadline for the transfer of these lands, requiring it to be completed by December 31, 2023. This action follows the provisions of Act 90, enacted in 2003, which called for the transfer of such lands but had seen incomplete execution over the years. To facilitate this process, the bill also mandates regular meetings between the two departments to discuss potential future land transfers.
Despite the potential benefits, there are concerns surrounding this bill. Stakeholders may fear that transferring non-agricultural park lands could impact conservation efforts, especially if lands with high productivity ratings are involved. Provisions within the bill explicitly prohibit the transfer of lands with significant agricultural value for development into golf courses or similar recreational facilities. Nevertheless, debates may arise about the interpretation of 'public purpose' when determining which lands are eligible for transfer and how these decisions align with broader agricultural and environmental goals in the state.