06-05-2026, 12:25 PM
I skimmed the "plan" and I noticed that everything is couched in wishy-washy terms like "prioritize" and "collaborate" and "research" and "review" and "set appropriate conditions" and of course "study". No actual changes to zoning or land use, no new infrastructure...
The reality is that everything is already how and where it is going to be. Existing subdivisions, roads that barely fit their right-of-way, grandfathered commercial uses, local monopolies (read: HELCO), major landowners, lack of infrastructure (eg, water, sewage treatment) and community opposition will prevent any substantive change. Other than perhaps Shipman's New Keeau, if that ever happens.
Hawaii's "highest and best use" is vacation or retirement only.
The reality is that everything is already how and where it is going to be. Existing subdivisions, roads that barely fit their right-of-way, grandfathered commercial uses, local monopolies (read: HELCO), major landowners, lack of infrastructure (eg, water, sewage treatment) and community opposition will prevent any substantive change. Other than perhaps Shipman's New Keeau, if that ever happens.
Hawaii's "highest and best use" is vacation or retirement only.