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Beneficiaries press DHHL for more inclusion, clarity on geothermal revenues and training for waiting-list applicants
Summary
Public commenters at the DHHL meeting urged stronger beneficiary inclusion in planning, asked what portion of geothermal or other revenues would benefit beneficiaries and called for expanded training (financial literacy, off‑grid technical assistance) for waiting-list households and homestead associations.
Public commenters used the DHHL consultation to press for greater beneficiary influence and clearer benefit flows from resource projects.
"We've been treated like we've been there to be seen but not heard," a participant identifying himself as Uncle Mango said, urging that beneficiaries be "at the table" for regional plans and decisions. Cedric Dwart and Gigi Kyrell acknowledged those concerns and described the outreach process—survey, island meetings and a draft comment period—intended to improve reflection of beneficiary input in the plan.
Jojo, speaking from Kauaʻi, asked specifically about geothermal development on Hawaiian homelands: "What part of those incomes will the beneficiaries be able to access as opposed to the general public?" Kyrell replied that the geothermal item was on the upcoming Hawaiian Homes Commission agenda and said staff would forward the question to commission materials and packet reviewers.
Several nonprofit leaders and volunteers described practical programs already in use: Jeremy McKa, a Kauaʻi fire captain and nonprofit board president, described using the regional plan process to secure grant funding for fire mitigation, and said nonprofit structures and timing can make applications more competitive. "You effectively planned out in the regional plan what you want to accomplish," he said.
Jade, founder of WAU Community Development Corporation, offered free financial‑preparedness workshops for beneficiaries—covering mortgage strategies, tax planning and entrepreneurship—and said she had already submitted the survey. Participants and staff discussed capacity-building grants and the value of rolling or smaller grant pots and grant-writing workshops to expand access for smaller homestead associations.
Why it matters: beneficiaries’ trust in DHHL’s planning and the share of revenue from land-based projects affect community support for development. Participants urged DHHL to clarify beneficiary benefit streams for resource projects, expand outreach for grant programs and offer technical training for waiting‑list applicants so future lessees are better prepared when awards are made.
DHHL staff noted the NHDP is one of the few program vehicles that can fund services for waiting-list households and confirmed plans to continue targeted workshops as resources permit.
