State offers OHA large portion of Kakaako Waterfront to settle $200 million payment

The State and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs have reached an agreement, subject to Legislative approval, to resolve claims relating to OHA’s share of ceded land revenues.

OHA’s vision is to create a master plan to utilize the land in consultation with key stakeholders, such as Kamehameha Schools, the Hawaii Community Development Authority, the University of Hawaii as well as members of the community.

“We will be doing our due diligence on this proposal to make sure it makes sense for OHA and the Native Hawaiian people,” said Clyde Namuo, OHA Chief Executive Officer.  “Our first obligation is to make sure there are no legal or other barriers to using the land in the best interests of Native Hawaiians.”

“My administration has been working with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs for months to reach an agreement that is pono, that benefits Native Hawaiians, and that is the right thing for the State,” said Gov. Neil Abercrombie.

“Although we realize there is more work ahead of us, we are extremely excited and encouraged about the potential of this news to help OHA continue its mission, and to continue to support education, job training and social service programs” said OHA Chairperson Colette Machado.

Between now and the end of the year, OHA will hold a series of meetings with community members on each island across the state to discuss the proposal.

“We look forward to working with the members of the legislature as they deliberate the possible conveyance of these valuable and historic properties,” Namuo said. “As policymakers, they have the keen responsibility for balancing the needs of our entire community.  OHA is convinced that the members of the legislature will see the wisdom of resolving this longstanding controversy.”