Relating To Historic Preservation.
The proposed legislation mandates that if the DLNR cannot complete its review of a project within sixty days, it must hire third-party consultants to complete this review. This change aims to reduce delays in project approvals for housing and infrastructure developments that often get stuck in regulatory limbo. This can potentially increase the efficiency of the permitting process, allowing both public and private projects to proceed without undue delay, provided they adhere to historic preservation standards.
Senate Bill 820 addresses issues concerning historic preservation in the State of Hawaii, emphasizing the role of the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) in managing the state's historic properties, burial sites, and aviation artifacts. The bill recognizes the critical delays faced by permit applicants due to the overwhelming volume of reviews required by the department. As such, it aims to streamline and expedite the permit review process associated with projects that may affect historic properties.
Notably, the bill does require approval from the appropriate island burial council before contracting third-party consultants, ensuring that local concerns about historic sites remain integral to the review process. While proponents of the bill argue it is a necessary step towards promoting economic development and efficient government, opponents may raise concerns about the qualifications of third-party reviewers and whether historic considerations might be adequately addressed amidst expedited procedures.