Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Performance Audit Of All The Programs Within The State Historic Preservation Division Of The Department Of Land And Natural Resources.
If implemented, the findings of this performance audit could lead to significant improvements in how the State Historic Preservation Division operates. The audits are intended to address the backlog of project reviews, standardize monitoring protocols, and streamline procedures, especially concerning cultural sites. Moreover, the proposal may lead to recommendations for any necessary legislative measures that could redefine or update the Division's mission in light of the evolving needs of land development, balancing these with the imperative of preserving Hawaii's cultural and historical heritage.
SCR116 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution requesting the State Auditor of Hawaii to conduct a comprehensive performance audit of all programs administered by the State Historic Preservation Division of the Department of Land and Natural Resources. This resolution is prompted by ongoing challenges faced by the Division, including insufficient funding and staffing, which have hampered its ability to protect and preserve significant historic properties in Hawaii effectively. The audit aims to evaluate the Division's compliance with established timelines in responding to project submittals and to assess its current project review practices, which include identifying historic sites requiring special protections.
The general sentiment surrounding SCR116 appears to be supportive, as it is viewed as a necessary step towards improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the State Historic Preservation Division. Stakeholders recognize the importance of historic preservation in maintaining Hawaii's unique identity, and conducting an audit is seen as an opportunity to better align the Division’s operations with its goals. The discussions may also highlight concerns regarding adequate funding and resource allocation to ensure the Division can fulfill its responsibilities.
While most discussions around SCR116 have been constructive, there is an underlying concern regarding the adequacy of the funding and resources that will follow as a result of the audit findings. Critics may question whether the recommendations from the audit will lead to meaningful changes or whether they could simply serve as a formality without the necessary action to resolve the identified issues. There is also the potential for contention regarding how the recommendations are implemented and whether they will adequately consider various stakeholders in the state's conservation efforts.