The exemption from school impact fees for housing development on Hawaiian home lands signifies a substantial shift in state policy regarding educational contributions tied to housing projects. It may lead to an influx of affordable housing options specifically for native Hawaiians, enabling the department to prioritize and expedite housing projects without the financial constraints imposed by traditional school impact fees. Furthermore, the bill acknowledges that lands set aside for Hawaiian home lands have historically been revoked for other uses, highlighting the ongoing need for dedicated housing support to address historical grievances and housing shortages faced by the native Hawaiian community.
Summary
SB880 is a legislative bill aimed at addressing housing development for native Hawaiians within the State of Hawaii. This bill specifically exempts any housing development managed by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands from school impact fee requirements. The underlying rationale is to promote affordable housing opportunities for native Hawaiians, thereby reinforcing the legislative intent provided by the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1920, which sought to establish housing on lands designated for native Hawaiian use. By facilitating housing development without the burden of additional fees related to school infrastructure, the bill aims to enhance the living conditions and community resources available to native Hawaiians.
Contention
While the bill is primarily framed as a measure to benefit native Hawaiians and streamline housing development efforts, there may be contention surrounding the implications of exempting such developments from school impact fees. Stakeholders could argue that this exemption could potentially undermine funding for educational facilities in communities that experience growth as a result of new housing developments. Furthermore, the bill could raise concerns among local education agencies regarding the adequacy of planning for future school infrastructure to accommodate the educational needs of children in new housing developments.
Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.
Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.