Hawaii House Bill HR112

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Report Pass: 3/30/23
• Passed: 3/30/23

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Facility Maintenance Of The City And County Of Honolulu To Dredge And Clean The Ulehawa Stream And Canal.

Impact

If enacted, HR112 would significantly affect state law regarding waterway maintenance and environmental management by mandating regular upkeep of the Ulehawa Stream and Canal. It highlights the intersection of environmental justice with public health, as numerous complaints from residents living near the canals have called attention to health risks posed by accumulated waste and stagnant conditions. The bill also underscores the responsibility of local government entities, specifically the DFM, to ensure ongoing environmental health in the communities surrounding the Ulehawa Stream. Furthermore, it calls upon the Army Corps of Engineers to assist in finding a permanent solution to mitigate ongoing sediment issues, such as the proposed design and implementation of a stream groin at the mouth of the stream.

Summary

House Resolution 112 (HR112) aims to address ongoing environmental and health concerns related to the Ulehawa Stream and Canal in Honolulu, Hawaii. This resolution requests the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) of the City and County of Honolulu to perform quarterly dredging and cleaning of the Ulehawa Stream and Canal. Residents have reported stagnant water, unpleasant odors, and various health issues due to the lack of regular maintenance, exacerbated by a blockage of debris and sediment in the canals. The resolution emphasizes the importance of maintaining these waterways for wildlife and ecosystem health, as well as for the welfare of local residents who rely on clean water and proper drainage.

Contention

Despite the resolution's intentions, potential points of contention might arise regarding the provision of funding and resources for the DFM to comply with the proposed dredging schedule. The DFM has previously indicated staffing shortages that hinder consistent maintenance efforts. Critics of HR112 may argue that the responsibility for upkeep of such natural resources should not fall solely on city resources, suggesting the need for greater federal support to address these environmental and public health concerns comprehensively. Additionally, while the resolution requests a quarterly maintenance schedule, whether such a schedule is practically feasible remains a recurring theme of discussion.