This Act mandates the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development to undertake a study that includes analyzing existing policies, researching best practices from other jurisdictions, and proposing options for the expansion of the rural district. The goal is to redefine the policies governing rural land use, enhancing protection for agricultural lands and open spaces while accommodating lifestyle farming and rural residential uses. By identifying areas that could be transitioned from agricultural to rural classification, the bill aims to create a clearer distinction between rural communities and commercial agricultural areas.
House Bill 994 seeks to enhance the effectiveness of the rural land use district in Hawaii by conducting a comprehensive study on its policies and practices. The bill recognizes that currently, the rural land use district comprises only 0.3% of the state's lands with notable gaps, including no rural district lands in Oahu. This limited usage has led to marginal agricultural lands being utilized for non-agricultural residential purposes, driving up costs for true agricultural operations. The essence of this bill is to reassess and expand the rural district to better serve the needs of rural communities and promote subsistence farms while protecting viable agricultural lands.
One potential point of contention surrounding HB 994 may involve the reclassification process itself, as stakeholders in the agricultural sector might resist changes that they fear could reduce the land available for bona fide farming. Similarly, there may be concerns from residents about the implications of expanding the rural district on land use regulations that could affect their properties and community planning. Community engagement is a crucial element, as the bill stipulates that the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development must coordinate with various stakeholders, including local farmers and the general public, thereby necessitating an appropriate balance of interests.