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.
The performance audit aims to evaluate various operational facets of the State Historic Preservation Division, including compliance with established deadlines for project reviews, practices for identifying and protecting significant historic properties, and measures to address an existing backlog in project reviews. Furthermore, it seeks to establish standardized processes, including cultural impact assessments and recommendations for legislative changes to realign the Division's mission and operations with state development needs.
Senate Resolution SR108 requests the Auditor to perform a comprehensive performance audit of all programs under the State Historic Preservation Division of the Department of Land and Natural Resources in Hawaii. The issue arises from challenges faced by the Division, notably insufficient staffing and funding, which impede timely execution of its responsibilities to protect and preserve historic properties significant to Hawaii's cultural heritage.
The sentiment regarding SR108 appears to be supportive, as it underscores an initiative to enhance the efficacy of a division that plays a crucial role in preserving Hawaii’s heritage. Stakeholders recognize the necessity of addressing the challenges faced by the Division while also aiming for a balance between cultural preservation and land development needs, which may involve both support and scrutiny of the Division's current practices.
While there seems to be broad support for the audit, a point of contention may arise concerning the suggested reforms post-audit, especially regarding potential changes in the Division's focus away from stringent historic preservation towards accommodation of increasing land development. The outcomes of the audit and any subsequent recommendations could spark discussions on the prioritization of cultural heritage versus the needs of economic development in Hawaii.