OHA adds Kakaʻako Makai residential framework to 2025 legislative package after public testimony

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees voted unanimously on Jan. 9 to add a proposal for a Hawaii Community Development Authority framework for residential development in portions of Kakaʻako Makai to OHA’s 2025 legislative package.

The addition, listed as action item BAE 25-03 and recommended by the Committee on Beneficiary Advocacy and Empowerment, follows an informational community meeting the night before and two public testifiers at the board meeting. Trustees said the public session improved transparency but heard recurring concerns about soil contamination and sea-level rise that they want addressed as the bill moves through the Legislature.

Trustee Galuteria, chair of the Committee on Beneficiary Advocacy and Empowerment, read the committee recommendation to the full board. After public testimony, the motion was placed on the table, seconded, and approved in a roll-call vote that produced nine "aye" votes.

Several trustees urged OHA staff to assemble technical information to support the legislative proposal. Chairperson Kahele said the community meeting allowed OHA to present its "vision and…