Hawaii Housing Authority addresses concerns over Kuhio Park Terrace relocations

The Senate Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection convened on March 19, 2025, to discuss several public hearings related to housing legislation, including PSM-CPN, CPN-HOU, AEN-TCA-CPN, and EDU-CPN. The meeting focused on the ongoing challenges faced by residents in housing developments, particularly in relation to the relocation of families from Kuhio Park Terrace (KPT) and the implications of proposed legislation.

The session began with testimonies from community members expressing concerns about the impact of housing developments on local residents. One speaker highlighted the emotional toll of losing access to amenities, such as pools, which were not available for resident use. This sentiment resonated with many attendees who emphasized the need for consideration of local needs in development plans.

A significant portion of the discussion centered around the right of return for displaced tenants. Representatives from the Hawaii Public Housing Authority (HPHA) addressed questions regarding their communication with developers and the measures taken to ensure tenant protections. They acknowledged past communication issues and emphasized their commitment to working with tenants to rectify these problems. The HPHA noted that while federal guidelines do not mandate a right of return, they have made it a requirement for developers involved in the project.

Concerns were raised about the adequacy of relocation options provided to affected families. HPHA representatives stated that tenants were offered various choices, including tenant protection vouchers, allowing them to select new housing units. However, some residents expressed dissatisfaction with the process, citing difficulties in finding suitable housing that accepted Section 8 vouchers.

The committee also addressed the role of commercial real estate entities in the affordable housing discussion. A representative from the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties (NAIOP) clarified their position, stating that while they primarily focus on commercial development, their membership includes those involved in affordable housing. They raised concerns about how proposed legislation could impact financing for affordable housing projects, indicating that capping the right of first refusal could create additional risks for developers.

As the meeting progressed, senators emphasized the importance of ensuring that the needs of long-standing community members are prioritized in housing policies. They urged HPHA to seek additional support for developers to navigate the complexities of relocating established families, particularly in areas with deep-rooted community ties.

The session concluded with a commitment from committee members to continue monitoring the situation and to advocate for policies that protect the interests of Hawaii's residents. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges in balancing development with the needs of local communities, highlighting the necessity for transparent communication and effective tenant protections in future housing initiatives.