Requesting The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands, In Conjunction With The County Of Hawaii Department Of Water Supply, To Provide A Progress Report Regarding The Development Of The Kau Water System On Hawaiian Home Lands.
The resolution outlines a proposed three-phase project aimed at improving the Kau water system. Phase one involves the design and construction of a 100,000-gallon water storage tank and related infrastructure. Subsequent phases are expected to address necessary repairs, relocations of existing waterlines, and the installation of new equipment such as meters and fire protection systems. This development will not only serve immediate water needs but is also anticipated to improve overall infrastructure and community welfare on the Hawaiian home lands.
Senate Resolution 42 (SR42) requests that the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, in coordination with the County of Hawaii Department of Water Supply, provide an update on the development of the Kau water system on Hawaiian home lands. The resolution stems from prior legislation, Act 49 from 2017, which allocated significant funding for the planning, design, and construction associated with the water system project, including $1.5 million in general obligation bonds. This initiative is crucial for enhancing water accessibility and reliability for residents on Hawaiian home lands.
The sentiment surrounding SR42 has been one of careful optimism. Lawmakers and community stakeholders generally support the development, recognizing its potential to remedy long-standing challenges in water supply and infrastructure for residents. However, the complexities and projected costs of the project raise concerns about its implementation timeline and budget management, echoing a cautious optimism among those vested in its outcomes.
Notable points of contention revolve around the phased nature of the project and the emphasis on timely updates to the legislature. Many argue that consistent progress monitoring is essential to prevent delays and cost overruns that have plagued similar infrastructure projects in the past. Furthermore, discussions highlight the importance of engaging local residents throughout the project to ensure that the water supply meets their specific needs, thereby addressing potential disparities in accessibility.