HB2704, HD2, SD1, CD1 was passed out of conference committee yesterday and will be decked for floor votes soon. Rep. Ito has informed me that he has checked with DLNR and received assurances they will not press for a gubernatorial veto - so it seems like we have green lights all the way to passage.
The bill in conference form changes the "administratively attached" agency from OHA to DLNR (a techincal hangup that has been corrected), and eliminates legislative funding for start up of the commission this first year. Our legislators tell us they will work to include funding in the next legislative session.
In the meantime, at least one of them will be pressing DOT, FHWA and the congressional delegation to support the inclusion of Ha`iku Valley as a recipient for a third of the funds allocated for mitigation of H-3 effects on the area. There is a little over $8 million left (and other funding DOT has available) in the mitigation account. The bill has a special fund so these monies, if approved by DOT/Federal Highways, can receive those funds.
Mahalo to you for all your support - please forward this to others who may be wondering and concerned.
Mahealani
Koolaupoko Hawaiian Civic Club
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