Relating To Historic Preservation Reviews.
If passed, SB510 would fundamentally alter the process through which historic preservation reviews are carried out in Hawaii. The delegation of review responsibilities to counties would require them to adopt ordinances that comply with state rules, ensure qualified staff are in place, and maintain organizational controls. This would theoretically expedite project reviews while ensuring that they adhere to appropriate standards of historic preservation. However, the bill also stipulates that certain responsibilities, particularly those concerning sensitive historic sites, cannot be delegated, ultimately maintaining the state's oversight in these critical areas.
SB510 aims to amend section 6E-42 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, which governs the review of proposed projects that may affect historic properties, burial sites, and aviation artifacts. The bill addresses the growing backlog faced by the State Historic Preservation Division due to increasing demands for construction of housing and infrastructure. By allowing the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to delegate the responsibility for historic preservation project reviews to counties, provided specific requirements are met, the bill seeks to streamline the review process and alleviate pressure on state resources.
The sentiment surrounding SB510 is mixed, with proponents arguing it is a necessary reform to meet the demands of growing infrastructure needs while still protecting Hawaii's historical sites. They argue that local counties are better positioned to handle these reviews effectively. Detractors, however, express concerns over the potential for compromised preservation standards as local entities take on these responsibilities. The debate hinges on balancing efficiency in project approvals with the need to preserve the state's historical and cultural heritage.
One notable point of contention involves the qualifications and independence of the staff that counties must hire to handle these reviews. Critics worry that without proper oversight and established standards, there may be conflicts of interest or inadequate evaluations of projects impacting historic properties. Furthermore, there are concerns that delegation could lead to varying levels of preservation efforts across different counties, potentially undermining the integrity of Hawaii's historic preservation mandates.