REPORT FROM OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS – HONOLULU, HAWAII – Two state senate committees have voted in favor of a proposal to resolve longstanding claims for past-due revenues owed to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs by transferring an estimated $200 million worth of land in Kaka‘ako Makai from the state to OHA.
The Governor’s proposed settlement would resolve claims for back rent for use of public land trust land from state airports, housing and hospitals.
The proposal would not affect any other claims against the state.
Trustees say they plan to use the revenues generated by the land to boost programs for Native Hawaiians such as scholarships, health and education initiatives.
The bill now goes to the Senate Judiciary committee for further consideration. No hearing has yet been scheduled.
A companion bill was deferred by two state House committees last week.
House members said they would consider the Senate version of the bill once it is approved by Senators. Meanwhile, OHA continues its community outreach on the proposed settlement. Here’s the schedule for the remaining meetings:
Hāna, Maui
Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Helene Social Hall
174 Government Rd.
Kahului, Maui
Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Maui Waena Intermediate School
795 Oneheʻe St.
Kaunakakai, Molokaʻi
Friday, February 17, 2012, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Kulana ʻOiwi Complex
600 Maunaloa Hwy.
Lānaʻi City, Lanaʻi
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Lānaʻi High and Intermediate School
555 Fraser Ave.
Wai’anae, Oʻahu
Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wai‘anae Coast Comprehensive Health Center
86-260 Farrington Highway