Hawaii County residents call for permit deferral on Kohala subdivision project due to concerns

The March 18, 2025, Monthly Water Commission Meeting in Hawaii focused on critical discussions surrounding a proposed subdivision project in Kohala. The meeting began with a request from a community member to defer the approval of the project permit until a thorough environmental analysis (EA) is conducted. The speaker emphasized the lack of public review, noting that the project bypassed the Liberty Planning Commission and the county council, which typically provide avenues for community input.

The speaker highlighted that the planning director holds sole discretion over subdivision approvals in Hawaii County, a situation that has raised concerns about transparency and public engagement. They pointed out that the project has not undergone an environmental assessment or a cultural impact assessment, which are essential for understanding the potential effects on the local community and environment.

Concerns were raised about the developer's limited consultation efforts, which reportedly involved only select individuals rather than the broader community, including the Floor's Case Ohana, a recognized Native Hawaiian organization. The speaker argued that the project, which spans 300 acres and is marketed as an extension of the Mauna Kea and Hapuna Resort area, should be subject to a comprehensive EA due to its cumulative impacts.

The discussion underscored the importance of addressing water resource concerns linked to the project, as the speaker asserted that the EA would help clarify these issues. The meeting concluded with a call for greater accountability and public involvement in the planning process, emphasizing the need for transparency in future developments. The commission is expected to consider these concerns as they move forward with their deliberations on the project.