Community leaders demand inclusion in vital development plans

During a recent government meeting, the president of Kaupale Homestead expressed significant concerns regarding the ongoing CALPADS 2 project, particularly its implications for community development and self-governance. The speaker highlighted that previous funding for the project remains unencumbered, raising alarms within the community about the absence of essential facilities, such as a community center and park, which were initially promised.

The president urged Oahu commissioners to prioritize clarity and communication with the community, emphasizing the importance of beneficiary consultations at every stage of the project. He articulated that excluding the community from decision-making processes undermines the principles of self-determination and governance outlined in the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act.

The speaker also noted the potential for Kaupale Homestead to become one of the largest homesteads in the state, with eight villages that could benefit from community centers similar to those in Mililani. He called for collaboration with the current administration to ensure that the voices of the Kaupale Board and the community are heard and considered in future discussions.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further engagement between the commissioners and the Kaupale community, as they seek to navigate the complexities of the project while preserving their rights to self-governance.