Bill > SCR178

This Concurrent Resolution requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), in consultation with the State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) and the Island Burial Councils, to establish a faster way to review proposed affordable housing projects. This is being done because the COVID-19 pandemic worsened Hawaii's existing affordable housing crisis, leading to job losses, increased housing costs, and a rise in homelessness. The resolution suggests that if the DLNR cannot provide a decision on a project within sixty days, they should hire outside experts, known as third-party consultants, to conduct the review. These consultants must meet specific professional standards, and they would be required to provide their recommendations within thirty days. The DLNR is also asked to get approval from the relevant Island Burial Council before hiring these consultants and to report their findings and any proposed legislative changes to the Legislature by early 2023.