Under SB33, each county is required to analyze and project its housing needs, thus laying the groundwork for the development of a diversified housing stock. This includes not only identifying adequate sites for residential development but also evaluating constraints—both governmental and nongovernmental—that affect housing production. The inclusion of specific requirements for assessing housing needs and identifying resources is intended to bolster accountability and drive meaningful housing initiatives within each county.
Summary
Senate Bill 33, relating to housing supply plans, addresses Hawaii's pressing affordable housing crisis by mandating each county to develop a comprehensive housing supply plan. The bill identifies the critical shortage of affordable housing in the state, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to meet anticipated housing demands across all income levels up to 2025. This proactive stance is deemed essential in light of studies indicating that without intervention, the production of new housing units will not suffice to accommodate normal population growth, leaving lower-income households at a greater disadvantage.
Contention
The bill's requirement for counties to take the initiative in planning reflects a fundamental shift in local government responsibilities regarding housing issues. Some concerns may arise around the administrative burden placed on counties, particularly smaller ones with fewer resources. Additionally, there may be debates surrounding the allocation of the $2,000,000 in appropriations designated for this initiative, especially regarding the equitable distribution of funds among the counties. However, supporters argue that these steps are necessary to alleviate the persistent housing supply crisis and to ensure equitable access to housing for all residents, including marginalized groups such as the elderly and persons with disabilities.