Hawaii Senate Bill SCR90

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/11/25
• Report Pass: 4/1/25
• Engrossed: 4/2/25
• Refer: 4/4/25
• Report Pass: 4/14/25
• Refer: 4/14/25

Caption

Requesting The Agribusiness Development Corporation To Assume Responsibility For The Routine Maintenance And Repair Of The Kohala Ditch.

Impact

The resolution emphasizes the critical state of the Kohala Ditch's infrastructure, which, if left unattended, could lead to severe repercussions for farmers who face exorbitant costs for alternative water sources. The operative aspect of SCR90 is that it seeks to facilitate the maintenance and improve the functionality of this crucial water supply network, which is pivotal for local food production and economic viability in the region. By advocating for ADC’s formal oversight, the resolution aims to ensure that agricultural producers have reliable access to necessary water resources for their operations.

Summary

SCR90 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the Thirty-third Legislature of Hawaii, seeking to request the Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC) to take responsibility for the routine maintenance and repair of the Kohala Ditch. Originating in 1906 to service sugarcane plantations, the Kohala Ditch is now essential for contemporary farmers in North Kohala, supplying more than five million gallons of water daily, significantly contributing to local agricultural productivity and supporting community sustenance. Recent issues, including a 2021 rockslide that damaged parts of the irrigation system, have highlighted the need for state involvement in its upkeep.

Contention

One point of contention may arise regarding the responsibilities and capacities of the Agribusiness Development Corporation, given its established mandates which include increasing local agricultural production and reducing reliance on imported products. Although the resolution lays out a collaborative framework involving community input, concerns may be raised regarding bureaucratic delays or inefficiencies that could impact the timely execution of repair works. Furthermore, how the allocated funds from Act 164 are managed and disbursed could also spark discussions around compliance and regulatory issues that hinder aid delivery to affected parties.