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Committee backs Army cost‑share study to guide Kahaluʻu Bay restoration
Summary
The committee recommended (9‑0) forwarding Resolution 549‑24, authorizing a 50/50 cost‑share aquatic ecosystem restoration study for Kahaluʻu Bay with the U.S. Army to evaluate alternatives for coral and shoreline restoration and inform permitting and long‑term plans.
The committee voted unanimously to forward Resolution 549‑24 to council with a favorable recommendation. The resolution would authorize the county to enter into a cost‑share agreement with the U.S. Army to fund an aquatic ecosystem restoration study of Kahaluʻu Bay.
Maurice Messina, director of Parks and Recreation, told the committee Kahaluʻu Bay is among the county’s most sea‑level‑vulnerable beach parks, has experienced damage related to high surf and volcanic ash, and requires a study to identify causes of reef degradation, runoff pathways and restoration options. "We don't even know if we can put the pavilions back exactly where they are," Messina said, describing the county’s plan to remove decayed pavilions and aging infrastructure now that study funds and some budget match are in place.
Members emphasized coordination with the Department of Land and Natural Resources because shoreline permitting and some land areas are under state control; Messina confirmed DLNR engagement and said the county has discussed the project with the Army Corps and Kamehameha Schools, which owns adjacent property and is cooperating on access and parking. Member Rebecca Villegas urged patience from the public while technical study and permitting proceed and noted recent coral‑spawning protections have temporarily closed parts of the park to allow recovery.
The county finance director has programmed a budgeted match; Messina said if the study exceeds $100,000 the county share would be a 50% match and subsequent design/permitting could require additional county match in later years. The committee’s favorable recommendation (9‑0) forwards the authorization to the full council.
