Hawaii Senate Bill SCR36

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/22
• Refer: 3/11/22

Caption

Urging The Department Of Planning And Permitting Of The City And County Of Honolulu, Mayor Of The City And County Of Honolulu, And The Honolulu City Council To Ensure Greater Public Input Prior To The Construction Of Wind Machines Having A Rated Capacity Of Up To One Hundred Kilowatts.

Impact

The proposed amendments to the Revised Ordinances of Honolulu are primarily focused on addressing concerns related to the impacts of wind machines, which include noise pollution and potential disturbances such as shadow flicker and flashing red lights. By requiring a more stringent conditional use permit application process, the resolution seeks to mitigate adverse effects on the community. Additionally, it prohibits waivers for compliance with Hawaii's environmental impact statement law for these installations, thereby reinforcing the requirement for environmental considerations in decision-making. This move is indicative of a growing recognition of the importance of environmental stewardship in urban development.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 36 (SCR36) aims to enhance public participation in the approval process for the construction of wind machines with a rated capacity of up to one hundred kilowatts in Honolulu. The resolution specifically urges the Department of Planning and Permitting, the Mayor, and the Honolulu City Council to amend existing regulations to classify the permits required for such wind machines from minor to major, thus necessitating more extensive public input during the permitting process. This change is seen as essential for ensuring that the views of local residents are taken into account before the installation of these energy-producing structures, which may have significant impacts on surrounding neighborhoods.

Contention

The resolution highlights existing discrepancies in the current permit review process, which allows for potential bypassing of public participation depending on the director's discretion. Critics of the existing system argue that it may undervalue the importance of community feedback, especially in light of the environmental and social implications that wind machine installations may entail. Moving from minor to major permits aims to create a more robust framework for public input, potentially leading to conflicts between developers and community interests. As energy needs grow alongside environmental considerations, the balance between renewable energy development and community rights will continue to be a topic of discussion.