Community members oppose Hilo council's bills 198 and 199 for commercial development

Hawaii County's Legislative Approvals and Acquisitions Committee convened on May 20, 2025, where community concerns about proposed commercial developments dominated the discussions. The meeting highlighted significant opposition to bills 198 and 199, which aim to facilitate commercial development in areas currently designated for agricultural use.

Kristen Counter, a local resident, voiced her strong opposition to the bills, emphasizing that community feedback overwhelmingly favors maintaining agricultural lots while increasing housing options. She pointed out that recent changes in land use regulations now allow for the construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in urban districts, providing an alternative to commercial development. Counter proposed that the land could remain agricultural while still accommodating housing needs through the development of ADUs, which could offer lower-cost rental options.

Counter's testimony underscored the importance of community consensus in land use decisions, urging the council to consider the potential long-term impacts of rezoning. She cautioned that once the property is legally rezoned, there are no guarantees regarding future developments, even if the current applicant has good intentions.

Following Counter, Ladonna Shively, a long-time resident of Waimea, echoed similar sentiments, requesting the council to reject the proposed bills and their amendments. Shively's testimony further reinforced the community's desire to preserve agricultural land and prioritize local needs over commercial interests.

The committee's discussions reflect a growing concern among residents about the balance between development and preserving the character of their communities. As the council continues to deliberate on these bills, the voices of local residents will play a crucial role in shaping the future of land use in Hawaii County. The outcome of this meeting could have lasting implications for the community's landscape and housing options.