Hawaii House Bill HCR160

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Report Pass: 3/31/23
• Engrossed: 3/31/23
• Refer: 4/3/23
• Report Pass: 4/20/23
• Passed: 4/21/23

Caption

Urging The Mayors And Councils Of The City And County Of Honolulu, County Of Maui, County Of Hawaii, And County Of Kauai To Establish Business Improvement Districts As Special Improvement Districts.

Impact

If adopted, HCR160 could lead to increased establishment of BIDs across various counties in Hawaii, impacting local economies by improving services that enhance property values and attract tourism and investment. The existing BIDs in areas like Chinatown and Waikiki serve as successful models of this initiative, demonstrating how such districts can tailor public service provisions to meet the unique needs of their community. The integration of BIDs into local governance frameworks allows for more efficient use of resources and localized decision-making, potentially yielding significant economic and cultural benefits.

Summary

HCR160 is a House Concurrent Resolution that urges the Mayors and Councils of the City and County of Honolulu, County of Maui, County of Hawaii, and County of Kauai to establish Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) as Special Improvement Districts within their respective counties. The resolution emphasizes the potential benefits of BIDs, which serve as economic development organizations designed to improve public services and enhance the vitality of specific neighborhoods through local governance and management. These districts are funded by assessment fees from local merchants and property owners, and they enable collaborative improvements in public services such as security, sanitation, and neighborhood promotions.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HCR160 appears positive among supporters of BIDs, who argue that these districts can revitalize local economies and improve quality of life through enhanced public services. Advocates believe that BIDs promote community identity and pride, and offer a structured way for residents and business owners to actively participate in the development of their neighborhoods. However, there may be concerns regarding the governance structure of BIDs, particularly around representation and fairness in fee assessments. Discussions may also revolve around the extent of local government control over these districts and the potential for unequal benefits among different neighborhoods.

Contention

While HCR160 reflects a collaborative approach to urban development, it does raise questions regarding local governance, funding models, and resource allocation. Critics of BIDs might worry that the existing urban areas could prioritize certain districts over others, potentially leading to disparities in community benefits. Furthermore, there may be discussions on the effectiveness and efficiency of BIDs in addressing systemic urban issues such as housing, transportation, and environmental sustainability. Overall, HCR160 aims to balance economic development efforts with local autonomy, fostering a dialogue that recognizes the importance of community input in shaping local improvement initiatives.