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Commission defers Kapolei film‑studio developer agreement after hours of testimony
Summary
After more than two hours of presentations and roughly 2½ hours of public comment for and against, the commission deferred action on a proposed 43‑acre project developer agreement in Kapolei (item C‑2) until staff provides additional financing, schedule and legal information.
DHHL staff and outside consultants presented a term sheet for a proposed project developer agreement under Section 220.5 of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act for a 43‑acre mixed‑use development in Kapolei that includes a film studio. Russell Kaupu of the office of the chair outlined the procurement and negotiation history; consultant Lance Wilhelm described a public‑private partnership structure with a 65‑year term, a one‑year due‑diligence period and a revenue share that combines an appraised base rent and a 15% participation in net cash flow or proceeds.
Supporters — including beneficiaries, labor unions and film‑industry veterans — urged approval, calling the project a vehicle for workforce training and for indigenous ownership of media production. “This studio creates not just actors but electricians, carpenters, costume designers, editors, producers, accountants,” said Dr. Darcy Pulava Morales, who described partnerships with community colleges and a beneficiary enterprise (KHEC) that aims to build local capacity. Opponents and some commissioners pressed for more detail on financing, entity changes and archaeological safeguards for iwi kupuna sites.
After an executive session to consult attorneys and a period of deliberation, the commission voted to defer C‑2 until the department provides requested financial details, schedule clarifications and specific answers raised by commissioners. The chair said the deferral was not taken lightly, and the matter was rescheduled for the next month.
