In a recent government meeting, the Honolulu City Council discussed a resolution to convey the former Kalaheo Elementary School property in Kailua to the Hawaii Department of Hawaiian Homelands (DHHL). This initiative aims to honor the legacy of Prince Jonah Kohio, who played a significant role in establishing the counties of Hawaii and the Hawaiian Homelands Program.

The resolution, which proposes the development of single-family homes for Native Hawaiian beneficiaries, has sparked considerable community concern. Residents, including David and LeGrande Pound, voiced their opposition to the resolution as it currently stands, citing a lack of due diligence regarding environmental assessments and potential impacts on existing homes. They emphasized the need for thorough soil studies and explicit protections for homeowners living downslope from the proposed development site.

Several testifiers echoed these sentiments, highlighting the risks associated with building on unstable clay soil and the potential for significant damage to existing properties. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of the proposed geotechnical studies, with some residents advocating for more extensive testing before any development proceeds.

Despite the opposition, some community members expressed support for the resolution, emphasizing the importance of providing housing for Native Hawaiians and recognizing the historical significance of the land transfer. Council members acknowledged the feedback from the community and indicated that due diligence studies would be conducted to assess the suitability of the site for development, including evaluations of traffic, infrastructure, and existing soil-related damage.

The council's discussions reflect a balancing act between honoring the needs of Native Hawaiian beneficiaries and addressing the legitimate concerns of current residents regarding environmental stability and property protection. The resolution's future will depend on the outcomes of the proposed studies and the ongoing dialogue between the council, DHHL, and the community.