Commission authorizes chair to negotiate with OHA on Kaka'ako Makai Lot I
Summary
The Hawaiian Homes Commission delegated authority to its chair to negotiate a memorandum of understanding with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to explore development of Kakaʻako Makai Lot I on Oʻahu. Staff said negotiations would explore terms for site access and mixed‑use development intended to benefit DHHL beneficiaries; the vote was unanimous.
The Hawaiian Homes Commission on Dec. 15 voted to authorize the chairperson to negotiate with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) on potential development of Kakaʻako Makai Lot I in Oʻahu.
Kalani Fronde, acting administrator for the Land Development Division, and land agent Carlisle Hanley presented background: OHA holds the larger parcel of 29 acres in the area and has signaled interest in exploring joint development with DHHL. Staff recommended delegating negotiation authority to the chair so DHHL and OHA could “talk story” about terms of a memorandum of understanding for mixed‑use development that would potentially produce housing and revenue to benefit beneficiaries. Fronde said the partnership could unlock opportunities similar to prior DHHL transactions that leveraged external financing.
Commission discussion focused on due diligence and the role DHHL would play in any resulting agreements. Commissioners asked for clarity on site context and affirmed interest in pursuing a partnership that could create affordable housing and revenue without committing DHHL to development costs. Chair Kai Kahele (appearing via video on behalf of OHA) expressed OHA’s “strong support” for beginning due diligence and working cooperatively with DHHL land‑division staff.
A public comment period included both supportive and cautionary remarks. Supporters described the potential for beneficial partnerships to expand housing options for native Hawaiians; one testifier said the opportunity to work with OHA had been “long overdue.” No formal objections were sustained.
The Commission moved and approved the staff recommendation to delegate negotiation authority to the chair. Staff said any final memorandum of understanding, lease or disposition agreement would be returned to the Commission for formal approval.
