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Family asks DHHL to review succession paperwork after designated successor’s death
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Summary
A beneficiary family asked the Hawaiian Homes Commission to direct a financial review of succession paperwork after the originally named successor died. DHHL staff said succession eligibility depends on relationship and blood quantum, not a financial‑capability test.
Tammy Chung testified Dec. 16 on behalf of her husband, George Chung Jr., about succession for his late father’s homestead lease (Princess Ka'ano Estate, Lot 159, lease #8450). She said the designated successor named at the time of the lessee’s death in February 2022 predeceased the lessee in November 2023, no alternate successor was named, and multiple family members subsequently claimed succession.
Chung told the commission the family was told by DHHL staff (she named a DHHL worker, Karen Lucero) that financial capability to assume the mortgage loan would be required; the family proceeded in reliance on that guidance, she said, and later was presented with joint‑succession paperwork without an adequate financial review of all parties. Chung asked that the file be reviewed by loan adviser Juan Garcia so a required financial review can be conducted and requested sole succession for George Chung Jr., asserting he has long‑standing stewardship dating to 1995.
Juan Garcia, homestead services division administrator, responded that he needed to review the record but said his understanding is that the succession qualification is based on relationship and required blood quantum, not on a financial‑qualification test. Garcia offered to work with the family to explore resolutions.
The meeting record shows the matter was presented as a public comment and staff response; the commission did not take a formal action on this succession matter during the session and Garcia indicated follow‑up with the family would occur.
