Hawaii Senate Bill SCR216

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Performance Audit Of The Department Of Education's Use Of Moneys Appropriated For The Construction Of Kulanihakoi High School.

Impact

The resolution specifically aims to determine the usage of allocated funds and to address several questions regarding the planning and construction of essential infrastructure surrounding the school. The audit will investigate whether funding was properly sought and utilized for the pedestrian crossing or if financial resources were misappropriated for other projects, such as the roundabout that was constructed instead. This audit is critical not just for ensuring compliance with state laws but also in providing assurance to the community about the safety arrangements for students commuting to Kulanihakoi High School.

Summary

SCR216 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the State of Hawaii that requests a performance audit of the Department of Education's management of funds appropriated for the construction of Kulanihakoi High School. The resolution highlights a critical issue regarding the financial accountability of the Department concerning $130 million initially designated for the school and a required grade-separated pedestrian crossing intended to ensure student safety. Local authorities mandated this pedestrian crossing to protect students who would need to cross a major highway to reach the school. The discrepancy in the actual construction undertakings has raised concerns about responsible fiscal management and adherence to safety requirements.

Contention

There appears to be notable contention regarding the handling of the project by the Department of Education. Critics question why the Department prioritized constructing a roundabout over the mandatory pedestrian crossing, with some concerns that funds designated for education might have been redirected toward road improvements without appropriate legislative oversight. With the school unable to open as scheduled due to these unresolved infrastructural issues, the resolution is poised to bring increased scrutiny to the Department's effectiveness in executing its obligations, particularly in the face of local safety considerations.