Requesting The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands To Develop And Implement A Water Access Pilot Project Demonstrating The Kohala Region's Capacity For A Potable Water System.
Impact
The implementation of SR137 is expected to have significant implications for state water management policies. By instituting a pilot project in the Kohala region, the state aims to establish a sustainable model for water access that not only addresses current needs for potable water but also integrates renewable energy solutions. This initiative aligns with broader state goals of enhancing agricultural production and reducing energy costs through innovative resource management strategies.
Summary
Senate Resolution 137 (SR137) requests the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) to develop and implement a Water Access Pilot Project that demonstrates the capacity of the Kohala region for a potable water system. The bill emphasizes the unique geographical features of the Kohala mountains, which provide an ideal location for a water pump storage hydroelectric facility. It proposes to utilize the elevation of the region to facilitate the flow of water through reservoirs, generating electricity in the process and ensuring a consistent supply of water for both drinking and irrigation purposes.
Contention
While SR137 has the potential to bring substantial benefits, there may be concerns regarding the allocation of resources and land ownership by the DHHL, particularly in relation to its impact on native Hawaiian communities. The resolution calls for a report from the DHHL that includes findings and recommendations for any necessary legislation by the start of the Regular Session of 2026, suggesting that future discussions may include debate over the best methods and frameworks for achieving these objectives.
Same As
Requesting The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands To Develop And Implement A Water Access Pilot Project Demonstrating The Kohala Region's Capacity For A Potable Water System.
Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development And County Of Maui To Inventory And Map Existing R-1 Water Delivery Systems And Reservoirs In Maui County.
Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources, Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development, And County Of Maui To Inventory And Map Existing R-1 Water Delivery Systems And Reservoirs In Maui County.
Requesting The Judiciary To Prepare A Master Development Plan, Including A Capitol Improvement Project Request, To Upgrade The South Kohala District Court.
Requesting The Judiciary To Prepare A Master Development Plan, Including A Capitol Improvement Project Request, To Upgrade The South Kohala District Court.
Requesting That The Agribusiness Development Corporation Conduct A Study On The Feasibility Of Developing Desalination Plants In West And South Maui That Are Co-located With Hydrological Power Plants.
Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.
Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.