Residents demand halt to controversial hillside development plans

During a recent government meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to a proposed development project on Kalaheo Hillside, raising concerns about environmental and infrastructural impacts. The discussions highlighted significant apprehensions regarding the management of the land by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) and the potential risks associated with construction in a known slide zone.

Kyle Smith, a resident of Kalaheo Hillside, expressed skepticism about the DHHL's track record, referencing past lawsuits that have cast doubt on their ability to manage the property effectively. He emphasized the need for thorough answers to pressing questions about sewage, wastewater treatment, traffic, and drainage before any transfer of land occurs. Smith urged the council to conduct due diligence to ensure the project benefits both the local community and the intended beneficiaries of Hawaiian homelands.

Jason Garrett, another resident, echoed these sentiments, detailing personal experiences with the shifting ground on the hillside that have led to costly repairs for his home. He warned that construction could exacerbate existing issues and called for a comprehensive engineering and urban impact survey to assess the risks before proceeding with the resolution. Garrett insisted that any findings from such a survey should be made public to allow for community input.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between development goals and community safety, with residents advocating for a cautious approach that prioritizes thorough investigation and public transparency before any decisions are made regarding the land's future use.