Hawaii Senate Bill SR166

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

Authorizing The Issuance Of A Term, Non-exclusive Easement Covering A Portion Of State Submerged Lands At Maalaea Beach Lots, Waikapu, Wailuku, Maui, For The Existing Seawall And Rock Revetment, And For Use, Maintenance, Repair, Replacement, And Removal Of The Existing Improvements Constructed Thereon.

Impact

The bill will impact state laws related to the leasing of submerged lands, particularly section 171-53 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, which requires legislative approval for such easements. By granting this easement for up to 25 years, or potentially until December 31, 2038, the resolution solidifies the state's support for maintaining coastal infrastructure that aids in erosion control. This act allows local authorities to manage environmental concerns while balancing the needs of property owners and the public's access to the beach.

Summary

Senate Resolution 166 (SR166) addresses the authorization for a term, non-exclusive easement covering a portion of state submerged lands at Maalaea Beach Lots in Wailuku, Maui. This resolution intends to allow for the continued presence and maintenance of an existing seawall and rock revetment, which are important for erosion control. The resolution emphasizes the significance of these structures in protecting adjacent land from coastal erosion and notes that their removal would not yield any significant improvements to the beach or recreational areas. The easement is designed to facilitate necessary maintenance activities, ensuring that these improvements can be repaired, replaced, and removed as needed without legal impediments.

Contention

While the resolution is primarily procedural, it may still encounter opposition from environmental groups concerned about the long-term impacts of coastal structures on natural resources. There is an underlying tension between coastal development interests and environmental conservation, as critics might argue that prolonged use of seawalls could hinder natural erosion processes and alter the coastal landscape. Addressing these potential concerns will be crucial for the legislature to ensure sustainable management of the coastal environment while accommodating the needs of property owners affected by erosion.