Beneficiaries oppose Pelina‑based priority changes and criticize regional planning process; commission urges collaboration

A substantial portion of public testimony on May 19 focused on proposed changes to the DHHL wait list and regional planning procedures.

Speakers including Kelania (who identified as a wait‑lister) and Rose Hattorii urged the commission not to adopt Pelina‑based priority amendments that would give genealogical or regional preference over chronological application order. Hattorii said beneficiaries often lack genealogical records and that prioritizing genealogy would disadvantage long‑waiting families. "Requiring beneficiaries to produce genealogical documentation may sound reasonable on paper, but in practice it creates barriers for many Hawaiian families," she told the commission.

Kelania and other speakers also criticized a recent planning report and public meeting process, alleging that videos and support materials were delayed or withheld and that the report mischaracterized weight listers as "greedy"; they asked DHHL to ensure beneficiary consultation, transparency, and accurate disclosure of support letters.

Several testifiers supported a dual‑track activation plan for lands such as the Wohuli Makai tract on Maui — combining immediate activation tools (revocable permits, agricultural licenses, stewardship agreements) with long‑term infrastructure planning — so beneficiaries can begin agricultural and subsistence use without waiting for full buildout. "This dual track approach fulfills the intent of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act in a real and practical way," one speaker said.

Commissioners acknowledged the concerns, urged staff to review outreach and posting practices referenced by speakers, and encouraged continued engagement with claimant groups. The commission did not adopt any rule changes at the meeting; several commissioners emphasized collaboration and asked parties to return with organized proposals for outreach and master planning.