Board approves resolutions to pursue acquisitions for Northeast Gateway; commissioners debate eminent domain as negotiation tool

Director Calder presented the board with resolutions to authorize acquisition of four parcels from two private owners needed for Phase 2 of the Northeast Gateway (Milani Boulevard) project. He said the parcels are needed for intersection improvements at Waiolani Boulevard and Roberts Road, including a large five‑leg roundabout, and that the acquisitions do not require residential relocations.

Calder summarized negotiations: “We made an offer to them, I think it was a little over a year ago, and we have not received a counter offer,” and for the other owner, staff said an offer made over two years ago likewise received no counteroffer. He said the right‑of‑way acquisition team maintains detailed contact logs showing repeated outreach.

Commissioners questioned why the board was being asked to approve eminent domain steps rather than reach negotiated settlements. Staff explained that the order of taking and eminent domain process is used only after extended attempts to negotiate and that, in practice, initiating the process sometimes prompts property owners’ counsel to reengage negotiations. Commissioners also framed the question as one of schedule: staff said the project schedule — construction planned for 2026 — requires timely acquisition or the project will slip.

The board voted to approve the resolutions to proceed with the acquisition process. Commissioner Matlow voiced opposition; other commissioners supported moving forward to meet the schedule. The motion was moved by the vice chair and seconded by Mayor Daley.

Why it matters: The approvals allow the project to maintain a construction timetable and preserve a regional mobility project, but they also highlight local concern about the use of eminent domain and the balance between negotiation and schedule-driven acquisition.