Relating To Important Housing Lands.
The bill mandates that state and county housing policies, as well as other relevant land use regulations, support the long-term viability of these important housing lands. It emphasizes the need to maintain these lands as cohesive units, discouraging fragmentation and conversion to non-housing purposes. Furthermore, it calls for the provision of necessary infrastructure to support housing developments, ensuring that low-income individuals have access to these crucial land resources.
Senate Bill 733, introduced in the 2021 legislative session, aims to address the housing crisis in Hawaii by designating all state-owned lands located within one mile of rail mass transit stations as 'important housing lands'. This initiative is primarily focused on promoting the development of affordable housing options below market rates. The bill sets out specific objectives for these designated lands, which include fostering walkable and mixed-use neighborhoods, thereby reducing reliance on cars and enhancing urban density.
While SB733 seeks to tackle the urgent housing needs in Hawaii, it could spark discussions around the implications of designating certain lands exclusively for housing, particularly concerning land use and planning conflicts. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for preventing the exacerbation of Hawaii's housing affordability crisis, while opponents may raise concerns about potential restrictions on land use that could impact local communities and their ability to evolve in response to diverse needs.