Bill > SB1103

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for creating and managing community districts in Hawaii through a process that involves legislative approval, local governance, and specific operational guidelines. The legislature can establish community districts by concurrent resolution, which must specify the district's name, boundaries, and termination date. Each district will be governed by a nine-member board elected by local residents, placed administratively under the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. The board will have extensive powers, including creating community plans, managing land use, securing funding, and implementing development strategies. Key provisions require the board to adopt policies that reflect residents' values, prioritize affordable housing, encourage sustainable business development, address climate change impacts, preserve cultural practices, and support public facilities. The bill also creates a special fund for each district, allows land use assessments, permits seeking federal financial aid, and establishes specific election procedures for board members. Board members will be elected every two years, with strict residency requirements, and the bill sets contribution limits for community district board elections. The overall goal is to provide a structured, locally-driven approach to community development and revitalization.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1103&year=2026