2018-03-28 BDHRA Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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investments, but we're appointed to this agency and I'm of the opinion if there is no money to do the studies, then I think we need to take a fresh look at what is really required in order to consider the master plan. And I had a short discussion with our Corporation Counsel representative here, but to me, if we're not increasing density and we're keeping the same footprint of the existing buildings, then I don't see the need to spend, to be frank, a half a million dollars to do a study when all our plans call for is the existing density and structure; it seems like a waste of taxpayer money, to be frank. I think what we really want to do is give the signal to developers that we welcome investment in our community to build new structures to present a 21st century opportunity for visitors and residents alike. And then tweak the amenities that are not really structures, per se, but things that are accessory to the use of the peninsula properties. And then we had some recommendations regarding rezoning some of the private properties on the peninsula so that those land owners would have the ability to make their properties more attractive and not a nuisance for being compatible with the tourist attractions in the area. So allI'm not into making a hassle about anything, so if there was a desire to implement the master plan by spending money that's available, fine. I'm into the path of least resistance. But if there is going to be a resistance of lack of funding, then I think we need to rethink how this agency can move forward to assist the potential development of that area. And if it needs to, maybe we need to get the lawyers in the room and take a look at how we can work with the planners so that we can be empowered because I think the State wants to empower us too. So if we're all on the same page to facilitate approvals, then we can work through a memorandum of understanding as to how Oahu has done. We just need to make it attractive for capital investment. And I think that's—we're all on the same page to do that; we just have to find the most practical way to do it in as quickest time possible. YEE: I'm in agreement that I'm not much for banging my head against the wall with the same idea. I—when I first got in here a year ago, this was already on the table; we went through one Leg session. I wasn't working with the Leg last year, I was too new. This year is different. I'm giving it my best shot to work the County and try to, again, no money no mission here, so we need to find the money. If we don't find the money this year, this way, yes I would say we have to, you know, start thinking of new ideas to spur that investment. To me, if I could get the $250 from the State and $250 from the County, that would help us do an EIS, that would help us signal to folks that we want to start reinvestment, it would get investors interested in the area. And so to me, that's a small investment on our part if we can get that. Again, I won't keep banging my head if we can't get it through, and if there's a year that I think we can get it through, this year, it will be this year. I feel as if the folks that are gonna support us are there and if we're not gonna do this year then, you know, we're not gonna have it any better in future years. So, I agree with you, Mr. DeLima. DELIMA: I appreciate that response Mr. Yee, I really do. Any other questions or comments? Okay. YEE: Thank you. DELIMA: Thank you very much and I hope those who are in attendance understand that our desire is to help people who are there who operate business there and help the property owners there to make their lands attractive so that we can have our contractors and our carpenters, and everybody else improving the structures that are on the peninsula. Thank you all for coming. Page 6 of 7 Banyan Drive Hawaii Redevelopment Agency March 28,2018 Minutes