Relating To The State Historic Preservation Division.
The bill is expected to influence state laws concerning the management and protection of historic properties. By requiring an audit, the bill serves as a catalyst for potential legislative reforms that may redefine the division’s mission and organizational structure. The findings from the audit could lead to improvements in staffing, resource allocation, and project management practices, which, if implemented, would strengthen the state's approach toward both historic preservation and land development needs.
SB984 is a legislative measure introduced in Hawaii aimed at enhancing the operations of the state historic preservation division within the department of land and natural resources. The bill mandates a comprehensive performance and management audit to assess the division's current capabilities, particularly in responding to project reviews and managing its resources. The evaluation seeks to address existing project review backlogs and improve the division's effectiveness in preserving the state's cultural and historical sites.
One notable aspect of SB984 is the balancing act it proposes between cultural and historical preservation and the evolving demands of land development. There may be contention surrounding the adequacy of current staffing and resources; some stakeholders might argue that the division needs more support to manage these dual goals effectively. Thus, discussions surrounding the audit's findings could reveal differing opinions on how best to achieve a sustainable balance between development and heritage conservation.