Urging The Board Of Land And Natural Resources To Establish A Task Force To Prepare A Feasibility Plan For The Transition Of The Management Of The Makua Military Reservation To The State From The United States Army Upon The Expiration Of General Lease Number S-3848.
Impact
The proposed task force is intended to include diverse stakeholders, such as representatives from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, the Legislature, families previously displaced from the area, and various nonprofit organizations with expertise related to Makua Valley. This inclusive approach aims to ensure that the transition not only considers ecological factors, such as cleanup of unexploded ordnance, but also respects cultural interests linked to Native Hawaiian heritage. The legislation highlights the need to focus on facilitating the access to cultural sites and ensuring a responsible transfer of the land that balances environmental and cultural integrity.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution 39 (SCR39) urges the Board of Land and Natural Resources to establish a task force aimed at preparing a feasibility plan for the transition of the Makua Military Reservation's management from the United States Army to the State of Hawaii. This transition is particularly relevant as the current lease with the Army, General Lease Number S-3848, is set to expire in 2029. The resolution reflects a long history of military use of Makua Valley, which dates back to the 1920s and includes significant environmental and cultural considerations due to the land's historical use and the presence of numerous endangered species.
Contention
Potential points of contention surrounding SCR39 may arise concerning the management authority of the lands post-transition and how it aligns with the aspirations of Native Hawaiian groups versus federal regulations. There are considerable concerns regarding the timeline and effectiveness of the cleanup of any unexploded ordnance that remains, which has previously hindered access to cultural sites. Furthermore, the resolution marks a significant step in addressing historical grievances from communities affected by military operations, stressing the importance of recognition and reconciliation in the context of land management.
Additional_notes
The task force is also called to submit a report with findings and recommendations by 2024, indicating a proactive step toward legislative action that may include proposed legislation for the management transition. The resolution is a critical move for local governance to reclaim authority over land use and cultural stewardship in Hawaii, engaging community voices in shaping the future of the Makua Military Reservation.
Same As
Urging The Board Of Land And Natural Resources To Establish A Task Force To Prepare A Feasibility Plan For The Transition Of The Management Of The Makua Military Reservation To The State From The United States Army Upon The Expiration Of General Lease Number S-3848.