HomeMy WebLinkAboutGeneral Plan 2045 Interim Amendments Package_Sep20261
GENERAL PLAN INTERIM AMENDMENTS
PLANNING DIRECTOR’S PROPOSED CHANGES TO
GENERAL PLAN DOCUMENT
(September 4, 2026)
Material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken. New material is underscored. In
printing this plan, the brackets, bracketed and stricken material, and underscoring need
not be included. Also, once the amendments have been adopted by the County Council,
the Planning Director will publish copies of the General Plan, as amended, and, in doing
so, may make corrections to the numbering, designation, and references of chapters,
elements, sections, tables, objectives, policies, actions, maps, and any other part of the
General Plan, as may be necessary.
GLOSSARY
1. Page 8
Rationale for change: Based on testimony from the Game Management
Commission.
Amend the definition of “Ahupuaʻa” as follows:
“Ahupuaʻa is a Native Hawaiian [comprehensive and holistic]socio-economic
system that functioned to maintain and perpetuate the health and wellbeing of the
ecology within strips of land running from the sea to the mountains and containing
a sea fishery and sea beach, a stretch of kula or open cultivatable land and higher
Lip its forest. All ahupuaʻa have specific names and definite boundaries delineated
by drystack stone walls or by natural features, such as gulches, ridges, and
streams. Hoaʻaina or native tenants live within ahupuaʻa with rights to access both
government and privately owned land for traditional and customary Native
Hawaiian subsistence, cultural, and religious purposes. [of careship of biocultural
and sociopolitical systems and resources that are inclusive of wao or horizontal
bioregions.]”
2. Page 9
Rationale for change: Fixes a spelling/grammar error.
Amend the definition of “Climate Adaptation” as follows:
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“Climate [Adaption]Adaptation refers to actions that adjust to actual or expected
future climate with the goal of reducing risks from the harmful effects of climate
change and maximizing any potential benefit opportunities.”
3. Page 10
Rationale for change: Fixes a spelling/grammar error.
Amend the definition of “Climate Resilience” as follows:
“Climate Resilience is the ability to[is the ability to] anticipate, prepare for, and
respond to hazardous events, trends, or disturbances related to climate change.
Improving climate resilience involves assessing how climate change will create
new, or alter current, climate-related risks, and taking steps to better cope with
these risks.”
4. Page 10
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball.
Amend the definition of “Collaborative Biocultural Stewardship” as follows:
“Collaborative Biocultural Stewardship [represents an approach to sustainable
development that emphasizes collaboration and partnership building among
stakeholders and refers to the]highlights integration of cultural and natural
resource management strategies to promote conservation, sustainability, and
resilience. It is part of the larger effort to restore ʻāina momona (fertile life of the
land), with focus on the management of forest, streams, wildlife, nearshore
fisheries, traditional crop diversity, traditional food systems, and health and
wellness; as well as the legal and policy steps needed to build a foundation that
can facilitate this change.”
5. Page 12
Rationale for change: Based on testimony from the Game Management
Commission.
Add the new definition of “Gathering Rights” as follows:
“Gathering Rights are those rights possessed by Native Hawaiians to access and
gather from lands as allowed by Article XII, Section 7 of the Hawaiʻi Constitution,
Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes 1-1 and 7-1.”
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6. Page 13
Rationale for change: The term is used multiple times throughout the plan but was
not previously defined in the glossary.
Add the new definition of “Heiau” as follows:
“Heiau is a pre-Christian Hawaiian place of worship or shrine, ranging from
elaborately constructed stone platforms to simple earth terraces.”
7. Page 17
Rationale for change: Based on testimony from the Game Management
Commission.
Add the new definition of “Public Trust Doctrine” as follows:
“Public Trust Doctrine is the legal doctrine that, for the benefit of present and
future generations, the State and its political subdivisions shall conserve and
protect Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty and all natural resources, including land, water,
air, minerals and energy sources, and shall promote the development and
utilization of these resources in a manner consistent with their conservation and in
furtherance of self-sufficiency.”
8. Page 18
Rationale for change: Based on public testimony and recommendations from the
Leeward and Windward Planning Commissions.
Amend the definition of “Stakeholder” as follows:
“Stakeholder is any individual, [group, or ]community, organization, government
agency, business, landowner, descendants, or other entity that may be affected
by, has an interest in, or can contribute relevant knowledge or resources to a
proposed policy, plan, program, [concern in a particular ]project, or decision[, or
activity and can be affected by its outcomes. Stakeholders can include a wide
range of entities, such as employees, customers, suppliers, investors, government
agencies, community members, and nongovernmental organizations. They can
influence or be influenced by the objectives, policies, and performance of an
organization or project. Effective stakeholder engagement and management are
crucial for the success and sustainability of any initiative, as it helps ensure that
diverse perspectives and interests are considered].”
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9. Page 18
Rationale for change: Based on testimony from the Game Management
Commission.
Add the new definition of “Subsistence Practices” as follows:
“Subsistence Practices is the customary, traditional and current use of wild and
cultivated renewable resources for direct personal or family consumption as food,
shelter, fuel, clothing, tools, transportation, culture, religion, and medicine; for
barter, or sharing, for personal or family consumption; and for customary trade.”
10. Page 19
Rationale for change: Based on testimony from the Game Management
Commission.
Add the new definition of “Traditional and Customary Rights” as follows:
“Traditional and Customary Rights are those rights protected under the Hawaiʻi
Constitution for subsistence, cultural, and religious purposes. Gathering and
access rights are the two most basic examples of traditional and customary
practices protected under State law. These practices include walking along
ancestral trails, song, dance, and chant about an area, celebrating the land and
the flora and fauna that grow upon it, and honoring the current and historical
significance of the area, cultural ceremonies comparable to religious ones, Hunting
and- gathering activities conducted in accordance with Hawaiian norms and values
extant from 300-1400 A.D. were customary and traditional notwithstanding
changes in the items that they gather. [Hawaiʻi Constitution, Article XII, Section 71]”
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
11. Page 22
Rationale for change: Fixes a spelling/grammar error.
Amend the description of “ALICE” as follows:
“ALICE Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) households
earn above the Federal Poverty Level but cannot afford the basic
cost of living. Despite struggling to make ends meet, ALICE
households often do not [quality]qualify for public assistance.”
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12. Page 23
Rationale for change: Avoids unnecessary terminology and potential confusion.
Remove Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) from the list of acronyms and
abbreviations:
“[UGB Urban Growth Boundary]”
1. INTRODUCTION
13. Page 25, Navigating Growth on Hawaiʻi Island
Rationale for change: Fixes for replacement language to align with Federal
administration.
Amend the text as follows:
“Hawaiʻi Island is unique in the world. Hawaiʻi Island is a community of rooted
heritage, constant change, and unique beauty. As our community navigates our
future, integrating a sustainable balance between environmental stewardship,
social and community [equity]needs, and economic sufficiency is paramount.”
14. Page 32-33, Directional Vision, Goals, Objectives, and Standard Guidelines
Rationale: The terminology was revised throughout the plan, and the existing
definition no longer applies to the revised term.
Amend the text as follows:
“Vision: The ability to plan for the future with creativity and wisdom in alignment
with community values.
Goal: A desired state of affairs to which planned effort is directed.
Objective: Measurable, achievable, and time-bound milestones toward achieving
a goal.
[Standard Guideline: A stated course of action that shall take precedence when
addressing areas of concern and should be followed, unless a determination is
made that it is not the most desirable in a particular case; thus, a guideline may be
deviated from without penalty or sanction.2]”
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15. Page 33, Regulatory Implementing Actions
Rationale: To remove redundant language.
Amend the text as follows:
“In the General Plan, future land use maps, policies, and standards are specific to
the actions through which zoning ordinances, subdivisions, and public
improvements or projects are initiated or adopted [because, as they must conform
to and implement the general plan] in accordance with the County Charter, Section
3-15.”
16. Page 33, Non-Regulatory Implementing Actions
Rationale: To add missing type of action used in plan.
Amend the text as follows:
“Throughout the General Plan, the objectives and policies are followed by a set of
implementing actions. There are [three]four types:
Program: An action, activity, or strategy carried out in response to adopted policy
to achieve a specific goal or objective.4
Project: An enterprise that is carefully planned and designed to achieve a
particular purpose.
Interagency Coordination: A program or project that requires collaboration
among organizations, including those external to the County.
Code Amendment: An action to revise the Hawaiʻi County Code to better align
County regulations, standards, or procedures with the goals, policies, and actions
of the General Plan.”
2. BIOCULTURAL STEWARDSHIP
17. Page 37, 2.1 Introduction
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball.
Add the following text to the beginning of 2.1 Introduction:
“Culturally based stewardship in Hawaiʻi is not a new approach, but a continuation
of long-standing Indigenous systems of governance, stewardship, and reciprocal
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relationships between people and ʻāina. The foundation of this chapter is rooted in
the enduring principles reflected in Hawaiʻi’s state motto, “Ua mau ke ea o ka ʻāina
i ka pono”, the life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness, and in the
constitutional mandate that natural resources are held in trust for the benefit of the
people.
Article XI, Section 1 of the Hawaiʻi State Constitution affirms the obligation to
conserve and protect Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty and all natural resources for present
and future generations, while Article XI, Section 7 establishes the public trust
doctrine for water resources, ensuring their protection and use for public and
customary purposes.
These legal foundations are inseparable from the values expressed in the ʻōlelo
noʻeau, “He aliʻi ka ʻāina, he kauwā ke kanaka”, the land is chief and we are its
servants. This ʻōlelo noʻeau, recognizes the reciprocal relationship between people
and ʻāina. Together, these principles establish that stewardship is not discretionary,
but a responsibility to care for and manage Hawaiʻi’s lands and waters in a manner
that sustains ecological health, cultural practices, and community well-being for
generations to come.
The County recognizes that ʻāina is not a resource, but a relative. Humans are not
separate from the environment but exist within systems of kinship, reciprocity, and
responsibility. Stewardship decisions shall therefore be evaluated not solely on
impacts, but on relationships, obligations, and long-term balance. This chapter
adopts a framework rooted in Kānāwai, the natural laws governing balance,
regeneration, and continuity of our island systems.
Planning and decision-making shall reflect the recognition that land, ocean,
atmosphere, and people exist within a single, interconnected living system. The
County shall align biocultural stewardship with ʻĀina Aloha principles, prioritizing
regenerative systems, local self-sufficiency, and economic models that restore,
rather than extract from, ʻāina.”
18. Page 38, Table 1: Biocultural Stewardship Challenges
Rationale for change: Fixes a spelling/grammar error.
Amend Table 1, Native Habitat as follows:
• “Invasive species continue to pose a threat to native and endemic species
as well as economic, environmental, and human health.”
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19. Page 38, Table 1: Biocultural Stewardship Challenges
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball
Add the following new challenges to “Stewardship”:
• “Current regulatory frameworks are largely reactive, triggered by
development proposals rather than proactive stewardship planning.
• There is an over-reliance on Western regulatory systems that inadequately
recognize Indigenous governance systems and cultural practices.”
20. Page 38, Table 1: Biocultural Stewardship Challenges
Rationale: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball.
Add the following new challenges to “Cultural & Historic Assets”:
• “Native Hawaiian gathering rights, subsistence practices, and access to
resources are inconsistently protected and insufficiently integrated into
County decision-making.
• Public access to trails, shoreline, and mauka-to-makai systems is
fragmented and lacks coordinated implementation.”
21. Page 39, Table 2: Biocultural Stewardship Opportunities
Rationale for change: Based on testimony from the Game Management
Commission.
Add the following new opportunity to “Cultural & Historic Assets”:
• “Collaborate with the County Game Management Advisory Commission on
matters related to preservation of subsistence hunting and fishing, as well
as protecting traditional and cultural gathering rights resources in
furtherance of the self-sufficiency and long-term subsistence sustainability
of aquatic life and wildlife in the County.”
22. Page 40, 2.2 Biocultural Stewardship Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball.
Amend Objective 1 as follows:
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“[Increase the biodiversity and resilience of native habitats]Restore and sustain the
health of Hawaiʻi Island’s biocultural systems through reciprocal stewardship,
Indigenous governance principles, and community-based management across
mauka to makai systems.”
23. Page 40, 2.2 Biocultural Stewardship Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball.
Add the new Policy 1.1 as follows:
“Protect all rights, customarily and traditionally exercised for subsistence, cultural,
and religious purposes and possessed by ahupuaʻa tenants who are descendants
of Native Hawaiians who inhabited the Hawaiian Islands prior to 1778, subject to
the right of the State to regulate such rights.”
24. Page 41, 2.2 Biocultural Stewardship Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 1.15 as follows:
“[Any]Ensure development [will]does not adversely impact the following resource
asset(s):”
25. Page 41, 2.2 Biocultural Stewardship Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball.
Add the following new policies after Policy 1.18 and renumber accordingly:
“Major development proposals shall demonstrate how adverse impacts to ʻāina will
be avoided, minimized, and, where impacts remain, addressed through measures
such as ecological restoration, long-term land stewardship, cultural resource
protection, or community benefits that are reasonably related and proportional to
the project’s impacts.
Re-establish systems of reciprocal exchange between people and ʻāina in all
County policies, programs, and land use decisions.
Ensure the protection, continuation, and active practice of traditional and
customary Native Hawaiian rights, including gathering, subsistence, cultural, and
religious practices.
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Implement integrated management across ahupuaʻa systems, connecting upland
forests, agricultural lands, waterways, and nearshore environments.
Transition toward regenerative land use and economic systems that support food
sovereignty, ecosystem restoration, and local resilience.”
26. Page 41, 2.2 Biocultural Stewardship Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball.
Add new action 1.a as follows:
“Support County staff training in Hawaiian culture and biocultural stewardship
practices.”
27. Page 44, 2.2 Biocultural Stewardship Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Fixes for replacement language to align with Federal
administration.
Amend the policies under Objective 3 as follows:
“Integrate progressive strategies incorporating indigenous and contemporary
knowledge and practices to maintain environmental [quality]conditions at the
highest standards, address a changing climate, protect natural resources, and
restore ecosystem health for the benefit of present and future generations.”
28. Page 44-45, 2.2 Biocultural Stewardship Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball and testimony from the
Game Management Commission.
Amend Policy 3.4 by replacing the existing language with the following:
“[Promote and protect traditional exercised rights and customs of Native
Hawaiians]Ensure access for cultural practitioners in areas that may not be
appropriate for public access (e. g. burial sites, specific heiau, traditional and
customary practice areas).”
Add the following new policies after Policy 3.4 and renumber accordingly:
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“Codify and operationalize protections for Native Hawaiian gathering rights, access
rights, and subsistence practices in County Code and permitting processes.”
Support subsistence hunting, fishing, gathering, aquaculture, and traditional food
systems as essential components of sustainability and resilience.
Support and collaborate with the County Game Management Advisory
Commission to conserve and protect the natural and cultural resources in
furtherance of the self-sufficiency and long-term subsistence sustainability of
aquatic life and wildlife in the County.
Prioritize ecosystem restoration approaches that integrate traditional ecological
knowledge, including agroforestry, loko iʻa restoration, and watershed
stewardship.”
Amend Policy 3.6 as follows:
“Require users [the management ]of natural resources to conduct their activities in
a manner that [fully]avoids or minimizes adverse effects on the environment[ and
depletion of energy and natural resources].”
Add the following new policy after Policy 3.7:
“Require consultation with ʻike holders, cultural practitioners, and lineal
descendants early in planning and permitting processes.”
Add the following new policy after 3.8:
“Support community-led stewardship programs through funding, co-management
agreements, and technical assistance.”
Amend Policy 3.11 as follows:
“f) Encourage the documentation and preservation of traditional ecological
knowledge, as well as contemporary practices from diverse cultural traditions,
identifying best management practices for integration.”
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29. Page 45, 2.2 Biocultural Stewardship Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball and testimony from the
Game Management Commission.
Amend Action 3.a, add the new action 3.b, and renumber accordingly:
“Contribute on a regular basis to state or federal Geographic Information System
(GIS) data stores and other programs for the collection and dissemination of basic
data concerning natural, historic, or cultural resources, subsistence areas, and
ecological priority areas.
Coordinate programs to protect natural resources with other government agencies.
Create special (business) improvement districts to engage in environmental
research, restoration and maintenance, natural resource management, climate
change or sea level rise adaptation, or other purposes to improve environmental
conditions and provide community benefit.”
30. Page 46, 2.2 Biocultural Stewardship Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policies 4.3, 4.5, 4.6, and 4.9 as follows:
“Public access to significant historic sites and objects [shall]should be determined
on a case-by-case basis in consultation with lineal descendants, those with
kuleana to that site or object, or other local sources such as cultural or historic
groups.
The County [shall]should use and promote the use of interpretive signs and/or
other appropriate methods that are in keeping with the character of the area to
recognize landscapes, sites, buildings, and objects of historic and cultural
significance.
Historic preservation [shall]should represent the full range and diversity of the
multi-cultural heritage of Hawaiʻi Island.
The County [shall]should prioritize development of a comprehensive management
plan for historic and cultural resources that are on County-owned or managed
properties.”
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3. ADDRESSING CLIMATE CHANGE FOR ISLAND-WIDE HEALTH
31. Page 56, 3.1 Introduction
Rationale for change: Removes reference to United Nations, simplifies language
to reduce redundancy with County’s Integrated Climate Action Plan (ICAP).
Amend the Introduction by replacing the text as follows:
“[The climate change section of the General Plan is intended to be used as a policy
guide for the coordinated climate mitigation and adaptation efforts on Hawaiʻi
Island. This element provides a high-level policy framework, building on the
scientific knowledge and government-level strategies and actions developed in the
Integrated Action Plan (ICAP) for the island of Hawaiʻi. The ICAP establishes the
County’s strategic roadmap for implementing climate action by identifying actions
the County government can take to mitigate and adapt to climate change. The
research collected, challenges identified, and strategies proposed in the ICAP
provide a foundation for the General Plan. Recognizing the purpose and scope of
the ICAP, the General Plan contains overarching policies and implementing
actions to help the County achieve the following climate action objectives, in
alignment with existing State and County priorities.
Climate change refers to the long-term regional or global average of temperature,
humidity, and rainfall patterns over seasons, years, or decades. Human-induced
climate change is resulting in global warming, or the long-term average heating of
the Earth’s surface. The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change (IPCC) has concluded in its most recent report that human activities have
unequivocally caused global warming.1 Climate change is already impacting the
lands and waters on which we live and the health of our communities. Island
communities such as those on Hawaiʻi Island are at the forefront of climate change
due to impacts, such as sea level rise. Our small population and island geography
mean that a single climate change event has cascading effects that significantly
impact the health of the land and people.]”
This section establishes the County’s long-term policy framework for mitigating
greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate impacts. It builds on the
research and analysis and detailed strategies and implementation measures
developed by the County’s Integrated Climate Action Plan (ICAP).
Adopted by Resolution 203-23, the ICAP outlines the County of Hawaiʻi's strategic
roadmap for climate action for the County to increase capacity, reduce the
County’s contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions and increase resilience.
In addition, the ICAP includes a detailed description of the cascading effects of
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climate change and complex interactions between global climate change and local
physical, ecological, social, and economic systems. The Office of Sustainability,
Climate, Equity and Resilience oversees the coordinated implementation of the
ICAP.
Hawaiʻi Island is vulnerable to sea-level rise, extreme heat, drought, wildfire,
flooding, ecosystem change, and threats to food, water, infrastructure, cultural
resources, and public health. In addition, our small population and isolated
geography mean that a single extreme weather event has cascading effects that
significantly impact us.
The County will address these risks through coordinated mitigation and adaptation,
with particular attention to our most vulnerable communities.
32. Page 56-57, 3.1.1 The Impacts of Climate Change
Rationale for change: Simplifies language to reduce redundancy with ICAP, adds
a reference to the County of Hawaii 2025 Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, fixes for
replacement language to align with Federal administration.
Amend the text as follows:
“3.1.1 The Impacts [of Climate Change] on Our Communities
[The islands of Hawaiʻi are especially vulnerable to the effects of climate change
due to our isolated geography. ]The County faces a unique set of challenges and
opportunities as we plan for a [sustainable] resilient future. Among the most
pressing issues is the impact of [climate] changes to our climate on public health,
as illustrated in Figure [5]4. As global temperatures rise, our communities will
continue to experience rising sea levels, more frequent and severe weather events,
wildfires, increased coastal erosion, biodiversity loss, and other shifting ecological
patterns. Residents will be directly impacted as critical infrastructure, homes, and
other community assets along the coastline are exposed to coastal hazards
exacerbated by sea level rise. Sea level rise also jeopardizes shallow groundwater
aquifers used for drinking water wells and degrades water lines and wastewater
systems, which leak into groundwater aquifers and coastal ecosystems. These
changes pose significant risks to our food and water sources, ecosystems, air
quality, cultural connections to ʻāina, agriculture and visitor industries, and overall
health and well-being.
The threats from changes to the climate to public health [from the climate crisis]
are extensive and may affect some areas and populations more than others. These
vulnerabilities are described in more detail in the climate change vulnerability and
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impact assessment included in the County of Hawaii 2025 Multi-Hazard Mitigation
Plan. The Hawaiʻi County General Plan recognizes the critical need to address
these vulnerabilities through comprehensive, proactive strategies. By integrating
[climate] resilience into planning processes, we aim to protect our communities,
ensure the availability of clean water and air, and promote sustainable
development practices. Our approach emphasizes collaboration across sectors,
community engagement, and the use of scientific data to guide decision-making.
Incorporating [climate change]considerations regarding changes to our climate
into our planning processes not only safeguards public health but also strengthens
the resilience of our communities. Through adaptive measures and innovative
solutions, we are committed to fostering a healthy, thriving environment for current
and future generations.”
33. Page 58-63
Rationale for change: Simplifies language to reduce redundancy with ICAP, fixes
for replacement language to align with Federal administration.
Remove all text as follows:
“[Climate Mitigation
The natural carbon cycle includes sources that emit GHGs and sinks that
sequester GHGs. Greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous
oxide, and fluorinated gases. The greenhouse gas effect occurs when GHGs trap
heat by reducing the release of infrared light waves back into the atmosphere. In
2017, Hawaiʻi County produced 2,779,683 metric tons of GHGs.3 As of 2023, GHG
sources in Hawaiʻi County include emissions from burning of fossil fuels and
biofuels for energy and transportation and from decomposition of organic and
inorganic waste. GHGs are emitted to support community systems such as
electricity, transportation, waste, and industries from agriculture to healthcare to
tourism. Simultaneously, the cycles of land development, including land
abandonment, have led to deforestation and biodiversity loss, decreasing natural
carbon sinks on Hawaiʻi Island. The early 20th century expansion of plantation and
cattle industries followed by the contraction of farming and ranching in the 21st
century were major drivers of these impacts. Emissions are expected to grow in all
sectors with population growth, increases in electricity use and vehicle miles
traveled (VMT), waste production, and new development.4 As the effects of
climate change emerge, so does the urgency to understand how to reduce
emissions and ensure equity while pursuing solutions. While Hawaiʻi County’s
contribution to global emissions may be small by proportion, it’s essential that we
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take responsibility for our contribution to global climate change and reduce our
sources of emissions alongside the rest of the world.
Figure 5 Hawaiʻi County Sector Overview of MTCO2e Emissions for Years 2005,
2015, and 2017]”
Transportation
Transportation is the primary source of emissions for Hawaiʻi County, with a total
of 1,742,191 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2e) released per year,
as shown in Figure 6. In Hawaiʻi, transportation emissions are generated from
ground, air, and marine transportation. Ground transportation contributes 16.8
percent of emissions annually on Hawaiʻi Island.1 Due to the rural geography of
the island and the distance between urban socioeconomic hubs and residential
areas, many residents have long commutes. The visitor industry adds to the use
of vehicles on the island, as visitors rent cars and drive to popular attractions
around the island. With increasing population and commercial activity, ground
transportation emissions increased 17.31 percent from 2015 to 2017 and are
expected to continue to increase.2 Airline transportation also contributes
significantly to GHG emissions, accounting for 54 percent of total annual emissions.
Airline travel is essential to residential, commercial, and visitor industry activity on
island. Interisland commutes are a standard part of many industries, including
construction. Increasing population and commercial activity amplify the need for
flights and imported goods, so airline emissions are expected to increase. On a
local level, reducing emissions that are generated from the transportation sector
involves expanding opportunities for and access to multimodal options as well as
prioritizing active transportation in planning and design processes. The General
Plan further discusses strategies for decreasing vehicle reliance and improving
commutes in the Transportation Access and Mobility section.
Energy and Electricity
On- and off-grid energy production and electricity use make up the second largest
source of emissions on Hawaiʻi Island, with a total of 959,900 MTCO2e released
per year.3 Energy production provides electricity, air conditioning, and heat. Our
heavy reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation and transportation, along
with inefficient energy use, are contributing to increasing amounts of GHGs.
Reducing fossil fuel use can relieve the burden of energy and fuel costs, especially
in the face of global shocks and stressors that increase the price of imported fossil
fuels.
1 COH, Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory for 2017 (2021)
2 COH, Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory for 2017 (2021)
3 COH Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory for 2017 (2021)
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Homes in Hawaiʻi use 40 percent less electricity on average than the national
average.4 However, the State of Hawaiʻi has the highest energy cost of any state
in the country, at 42.37 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), compared to the national
average of 12.52 cents.5 These high prices stem from the State’s dependence on
energy importation, as Hawaiʻi uses 12 times more energy than it produces and
pricing structures are dependent on the cost of foreign oil, even for renewable
energy generation. Foreign oil generates about 60 percent of Hawaiʻi’s energy.
The County can reduce its footprint by
increasing the percentage of renewable
fuel used to power public facilities and
infrastructure, reducing VMT, and
establishing more energy efficient
buildings. One of the most cost-
effective ways of reducing energy
emissions is by making buildings more
energy efficient, as improving energy
standards costs less than 1 cent per
kWh saved. Building energy efficiency
refers to how effectively infrastructure
uses energy generated. For example,
buildings that are designed with natural
cooling systems, such as windows and
doors that allow for cross-ventilation or
siding that better reflects sunlight,
require fewer fans or small air
conditioning units. Upgrading
appliances such as light bulbs,
refrigerators, and washing machines also reduces electricity usage. New building
development inevitably increases GHG emissions by adding load on or off the grid.
New development also includes embodied emissions, also referred to as
embodied carbon, from harvesting, transportation, and construction of materials.
The General Plan expands on the opportunities for increasing renewable sources
of energy and energy efficiency in the Public Utilities section.
4 U.S. Energy Information Administration, Hawaiʻi State Energy Profile https://www.eia.gov/state/print.php?sid=HI 5 U.S. Energy Information Administration, Average Price of Electricity to Ultimate Customers by End-Use Sector https://www.eia.gov/electricity/monthly/epm_table_grapher.php?t=epmt_5_6_a
Renewable Energy in Hawaiʻi
Hawaiʻi Island has the most diverse set of
renewable sources in the State, which can be
embraced to reduce fossil fuel use and
decrease the cost of electricity and gas. The
island has a long history of utilizing renewable
energy. In 1890, Hilo was the site of one of the
first hydropower projects in the State. Hawaiʻi
Island also has the State’s only geothermal
plant, Puna Geothermal Ventures, founded in
1993. Since then, Hawaiian Electric has
committed to cut its carbon emissions by 70
percent by 2030. Current renewable energy
sources on-island include solar, wind,
hydroelectric, geothermal, and biofuels.
18
Waste and Wastewater
The third and fourth highest contributing sectors for Hawaiʻi County emissions are
solid waste and wastewater, accounting for 8.79 percent of emissions.6 In 2022,
Hawaiʻi County collected 203,872 tons of waste in its landfill. Solid waste produces
emissions through the process of decomposition, which releases nitrogen gases
and methane. Additionally, transporting waste to and from transfer stations and the
landfill produces additional emissions. Wastewater (sewage) produces GHG
emissions during treatment processes, including nitrification and denitrification.
Waste management is especially important for an island community, which has
limited land for waste disposal and watersheds that are easily polluted. Residential,
commercial, and industrial activity add to waste production on the island through
materials used in construction, agriculture, and the visitor industry. Without finding
ways to repurpose and reduce waste, waste production will continue to grow as
population expands and economic activity increases. The County can divert waste
from the landfill or incinerator through integrated waste management activities,
including reducing, reusing, recycling, or composting waste. Waste minimization
feeds into economic development, cesspool management, and toxic leakage. The
General Plan explores opportunities for reducing waste in the Public Utilities and
Public Facilities and Services sections.
Agriculture, Forestry, and Other Land Use
Agriculture, forestry, and other land use serve as carbon sinks, which absorb a
substantial amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Hawaiʻi Island forests
are the largest source of carbon sequestration in the State.7 Forests are also
essential components of our watersheds. At higher elevations, forests catch and
collect water that then travels down to lower elevations, providing fresh water from
mauka to makai. As forests and shrublands are converted for commercial and
residential activities, ranching and agriculture, essential natural carbon sinks, and
vital cultural resources disappear. Deforestation and degradation of native forests
can reduce the availability of fresh water, impacting potable water supply,
agriculture, and ecosystem health. Moreover, the proliferation of invasive species
can decrease groundwater recharge and have diminished the dominance of native
ecosystems in Hawaiʻi. Given that increased development, deforestation, and
certain land management practices can become carbon sources, the County will
need to preserve open spaces and forested lands to maintain carbon sinks. The
General Plan expands on opportunities for climate-conscious land development in
the Land Use section.
6 COH, Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory for 2017 (2021) 7 DOH, Hawaiʻi Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report for 2017 (2021) https://health.hawaii.gov/cab/files/2021/04/2017-Inventory_Final-Report_April-2021.pdf
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Climate Adaptation
Climate adaptation refers to actions to increase resilience to climate change
impacts. Adaptation actions adjust to the actual or expected future climate to
reduce risks from the harmful effects of climate change and maximize any potential
benefit opportunities. The effects of climate change that are already starting to
impact Hawaiʻi Island include increased air and sea surface temperature, drought,
extreme rainfall, sea level rise, and increased hurricanes. These hazards
exacerbate and are exacerbated by other hazards including wildfire, flooding,
landslides, and high winds. Climate change poses a threat to ecosystem and
community health. Climate change also endangers critical infrastructure and
services, including structures, roads, bridges, potable water and watersheds,
wastewater, parks, and emergency services.
Human and Environmental Health
Rising GHG emissions result in higher air and sea surface temperatures and
greater absorption of carbon dioxide in the ocean, which increases ocean acidity.
Coastal communities are especially susceptible to increased temperatures, with
longer stretches of temperatures well above 80 °F. Higher temperatures alone can
be dangerous for the health of humans and other living organisms. Higher
temperatures also change the natural cycles of our planet. For example, higher
temperatures can affect how the atmosphere retains water, leading to increased
rain in some areas and drought in others. High temperatures can be hazardous,
particularly for vulnerable populations and those exposed for long durations.
Kupuna and keiki are even more susceptible to the effects of extreme heat.
Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and
death, as well as exacerbate preexisting chronic conditions such as respiratory,
cerebral, and cardiovascular diseases.8
Plants, birds, and other living organisms will migrate and likely be more stressed
with rising air temperature. Increased air temperature will affect the behavioral
patterns of species on Hawaiʻi Island. For instance, avian mosquitoes are migrating
mauka with warmer air temperatures, harming native bird populations that live at
higher elevations.9 While some plant species may benefit from higher
concentrations of atmospheric carbon dioxide, other factors essential to plants’
growth such as nutrients, temperature, and water may limit growth. For example,
the seed production of koa decreases in response to higher temperatures. There
are various ways plant and animal species can adapt to increased temperature. In
8 National Institutes of Environmental Health, Climate and Human Health (2022)
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/programs/climatechange/health_impacts/heat/index.cfm#:~:text=Prolonged%20exposure%20to%20extreme%20heat,%2C%20cerebral%2C%20and%20cardiovascular%20diseases 9 L. B. Fortini, L. R. Kaiser, D. A. LaPointe, Fostering real-time climate adaptation: Analyzing past, current, and forecast temperature to understand the dynamic risk to Hawaiian honeycreepers from avian malaria. Glob. Ecol. Conserv. 23, e01069 (2020).
20
alpine ecosystems throughout the Pacific, species have been migrating to higher
elevations in response to climate change.10 Higher temperature intensify drought
conditions by increasing evaporation, which can lead to higher tree mortality and
contribute to forest decline.11 Urban areas often lack tree canopies and green
spaces that absorb heat and provide shade. Instead, structures such as buildings
and roads elevate the surrounding temperature, leading to an urban heat island
effect.
Water Resources
A warmer ocean and more acidic ocean stresses reef ecosystems from increased
rainfall and runoff containing sewage, pesticides, and fertilizers. Rising sea surface
temperature, also associated with increasing storm intensity, can cause similar
damage. This impacts fish populations, the food web in marine ecosystems, and
the communities who depend on them. Hawaiʻi is impacted not only by global
ocean acidification, but also coastal acidification resulting from localized land-
based pollution, such as runoff and cesspools.12
Further, wastewater and water line segments as well as on-site disposal systems
are exposed to sea level rise. Saltwater intrusion from sea level rise into shallow
coastal aquifers impacts potable water supply from shallow coastal groundwater
wells and underground infrastructure. Underground infrastructure may become
corroded and contaminate freshwater and nearshore waters. The General Plan
promotes One Water strategies in the Public Utilities section.
Agriculture and Native Ecosystems
Extended droughts can have cascading effects on native ecosystems, the
economy, agriculture, and public health. Drought reduces stream flow, which
decreases the water available to support stream and wetland habitats, agricultural
irrigation, cultural practices, and aquifer recharge and freshwater supplies.13 Rain-
fed fields and pastures are the most vulnerable to drought impacts in Hawaiʻi. If
droughts persist, irrigated areas can become vulnerable as well.14 Additionally,
higher temperatures and drought degrade native forests through increasing tree
mortality and accelerating grass invasion. Together, these factors can reduce the
cover of high-quality forest and heighten vulnerability to fire impacts. Future drying
10 Frazier, A. G., & Brewington, L. (2020). Current Changes in Alpine Ecosystems of Pacific Islands. In M. I. Goldstein & D. A. DellaSala (Eds.), Encyclopedia of the World's Biomes (pp. 607-619). Oxford: Elsevier. 11 Brodribb, T.J., Powers, J., Cochard, H. and Choat, B. (2020). Hanging by a thread? Forests and drought. Science, 368(6488), pp.261-266. 12 State of Hawaiʻi, Ocean Acidification Action Plan 2021 – 2031 (2021) https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dar/files/2021/09/State_of_Hawaii_OA_Action_Plan.pdf 13 COH, Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan (2020) https://www.hawaiicounty.gov/departments/civil-defense/multi-hazard-mitigation-plan-
2020 14 Frazier, A.G.; Giardina, C.P.; Giambelluca, T.W.; Brewington, L.; Chen, Y.-L.; Chu, P.-S.; Berio Fortini, L.; Hall, D.; Helweg, D.A.; Keener, V.W.; et al., (2022). A Century of Drought in Hawaiʻi: Geospatial Analysis and Synthesis across Hydrological, Ecological, and Socioeconomic Scales. Sustainability 2022, 14, 12023. https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912023
21
with climate change will shift speak fire risk to higher elevations, endangering
native forests mauka.
Freshwater ecosystems are especially vulnerable to drought. Stream wildlife is
adversely impacted by reductions in stream flow through the limited availability of
freshwater habitat, loss of hydrological connectivity, and impaired water quality.
Reduced surface water and groundwater inputs into nearshore environments may
also have negative impacts on organisms in brackish and marine environments.
Groundwater-dependent ecosystems, including fish ponds, anchialine pools, and
coastal springs, are culturally and ecologically significant systems that are affected
by drought and exacerbated by unsustainable water use. Longer and more
frequent droughts increase the demand for potable and non-potable water for
municipal and agricultural uses. Water supply from County, private, and individual
systems will be impacted by drought conditions and increased water use to support
residents, agriculture, ranching, and tourism. Improving water infrastructure and
conservation by increasing water storage capacity, reducing leakages from water
systems, providing backup water systems, using stormwater to recharge
groundwater aquifers, integrating groundwater-dependent ecosystem needs in
sustainable water yield analysis, and conducting education and outreach activities
are some of the key pre-drought management actions needed in a changing
climate. The Collaborative Biocultural Stewardship section of the General Plan
promotes balanced and resilient approach to managing land and resources.
Critical Infrastructure
Severe rainfall events, compounded by flooding and landslides, jeopardize critical
infrastructure, communities, and coastal ecosystems. Runoff and flooding are
some of the most disastrous impacts of severe rainfall events. As stream flows and
velocities change, erosion patterns also change, altering channel shapes and
depths, potentially increasing sedimentation behind dams and affecting habitat
and water quality. Changes in watershed vegetation and soil moisture conditions
also change runoff and recharge patterns. Additionally, deforestation adds to the
impact of extreme rainfall events. When forests are removed from a watershed,
stream flows can easily double. Increased sediment prevents streambeds from
carrying the increased discharge, causing floodplains and floodplain elevations to
increase.
Numerous County roads, bridges, and structures are exposed to severe rainfall
events and compounding hazards. Sea level rise affects critical infrastructure
including hazard materials and waste storage facilities, wastewater treatment
facilities, and transportation, communication, energy, safety, and security systems.
Structures along the coastline in South Hilo, North Kona, and South Kohala have
the greatest sea level rise exposure. Disruptions to emergency services can occur
22
due to the impacts on roads, utility lines, and other critical infrastructure. More
severe flood events will increase the number of brown water advisories that carry
land-based sediment and contaminants, including sewage, dead animals, and
pesticides, to the shoreline, beaches, and coastal waters, posing risks to public
safety and coastal ecosystem health. The General Plan further expands on
strategies to increase resilience in the Transportation Access and Mobility,
Public Utilities, and Public Facilities and Services sections.
Energy Resilience
Increased air temperature places greater demand on energy consumption. A
greater dependency on air conditioners will be necessary for organizations
including hospitals and schools. Moreover, technology such as data servers
require immense amounts of cooling, which will increase energy demand as
temperatures and technology use rise. Disasters from climate change can also
increase energy demand as power sources go out and need to be replaced with
fossil fuel. Greater energy demand further increases GHG emissions, especially
without renewable and reliable energy sources. The General Plan expands on
renewable energy in the Public Utilities section.]”
34. Page 64-67, Table 12-15
Rationale for change: Simplifies language to reduce redundancy with ICAP, fixes
for replacement language to align with Federal administration.
Remove the following Tables and related text and replace it with the new Table 12:
“[Table 12: Climate Mitigation Challenges
Climate mitigation in Hawaiʻi County faces a range of challenges due to its unique
geographic, socioeconomic, and environmental contexts. Mitigation focuses on the
root cause of climate change: heat-trapping greenhouse gases that are added to
the atmosphere at a faster rate than the planet can absorb them. Addressing these
challenges requires a multifaceted approach involving collaboration between
government agencies, the private sector, community groups, and other
stakeholders. Investment in research, innovation, and education, as well as robust
policy frameworks and financial mechanisms, are essential components of
effective climate mitigation strategies.]”
Table 13: Climate Adaptation Challenges
“[Complementary to mitigation, climate adaptation is intended to be proactive.
These efforts focus on building systems to withstand not only current but future
climate change impacts. Approaches to adaptation include a wide range of
23
solutions. Some examples may include building or retrofitting infrastructure to
better manage increased flooding or natural solutions such as habitat restoration.
Adaptation may also be associated with behavior and policy changes, such as
public awareness campaigns and updating regulatory codes.]”
Table 14: Climate Mitigation Opportunities
“[By focusing on the following areas, Hawaiʻi County can make significant strides
in reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the impacts of climate
change.]”
Table 15: Climate Adaptation Opportunities
“[By leveraging the following opportunities, Hawaiʻi County can build resilience
against the impacts of climate change, protect its natural resources, and ensure
the well-being of its residents.]”
Table 12: Key Climate Challenges and Opportunities
The County will need to address climate change through coordinated mitigation
and adaptation that reduces greenhouse gas emissions, strengthens community
resilience, protects natural and cultural resources, and prioritizes people and
places most vulnerable to climate impacts.
Theme Key climate challenge Strategic opportunities
Equity and
community
capacity
Climate hazards and the costs of
adaptation disproportionately affect
low-income households, rural
communities, kūpuna, people with
disabilities, Native Hawaiian
communities, and others with limited
access to transportation, housing, health
care, insurance, information, or financial
resources. Barriers involving cost, time,
language, geography, and technology
can limit participation in climate
planning and programs.
Prioritize investments and programs
that benefit communities facing the
greatest climate risks and historic
inequities. Remove barriers to
participation and provide accessible,
culturally appropriate information and
services. Incorporate Native Hawaiian
traditional knowledge, place-based
knowledge, and community data into
climate decisions. Strengthening local
capacity through education, workforce
development, community partnerships,
and support for neighborhood-level
preparedness.
Transportation
and energy
Transportation and electricity use are
major sources of greenhouse gas
emissions. Automobile dependence,
Reduce vehicle miles traveled through
compact development, public transit,
safe walking and bicycling networks,
24
Theme Key climate challenge Strategic opportunities
sprawling development, imported fuels,
inefficient buildings, and limited
transportation choices increase
household costs and vulnerability to
fuel-price and supply disruptions.
Extreme weather and other climate
hazards may also damage energy and
transportation systems.
and improved access to daily needs.
Accelerate the transition to renewable
energy and infrastructure. Improve the
efficiency and resilience of public and
private buildings. Lead through County
facilities, fleets, purchasing,
construction standards, and
transparent reporting of energy use
and emissions.
Land use and
infrastructure
Development in areas exposed to sea-
level rise, coastal erosion, flooding,
wildfire, extreme heat, and other
hazards can increase risks to people,
property, infrastructure, cultural
resources, and public finances. Existing
roads, utilities, drainage systems, public
facilities, and coastal infrastructure may
not be designed for future climate
conditions.
Use current climate science, hazard
data, and risk assessments in land-use,
capital-improvement, infrastructure,
and budget decisions. Direct growth
away from high-risk areas and avoid
creating new long-term liabilities.
Apply resilient design standards to
public facilities and infrastructure.
Evaluate protection, accommodation,
relocation, and managed retreat where
appropriate. Preserve evacuation
routes, redundant systems, and access
to essential services.
Water, waste,
and food
systems
Drought, changing rainfall, saltwater
intrusion, flooding, wildfire, and rising
temperatures threaten water supplies,
wastewater systems, agriculture, and
food security. Solid waste generates
emissions and represents the loss of
reusable or recoverable materials.
Dependence on imported food, fuel, and
other essential goods increases exposure
to disruptions.
Protect watersheds and recharge
areas, conserve water, diversify
supplies, and improve the resilience of
drinking-water and wastewater
systems. Reduce waste through
prevention, reuse, repair, recycling,
composting, and responsible material
recovery. Capture or reduce methane
emissions where feasible. Support
regenerative agriculture, local food
production, soil health, drought
preparedness, and reliable distribution
and storage systems.
Ecosystems and
natural carbon
sinks
Forests, wetlands, reefs, coastal areas,
agricultural soils, and other ecosystems
store carbon and protect communities
from flooding, erosion, heat, drought,
and wildfire. Invasive species, land
conversion, habitat fragmentation,
Protect and restore forests,
watersheds, wetlands, reefs, native
habitats, agricultural lands, and other
natural carbon sinks. Limit
fragmentation and maintain pathways
for species and habitats to shift as
25
Theme Key climate challenge Strategic opportunities
wildfire, pollution, warming, and ocean
acidification weaken these natural
defenses and threaten biodiversity and
cultural practices.
conditions change. Use nature-based
solutions to reduce hazards and
complement engineered infrastructure.
Support invasive-species control,
wildfire risk reduction, urban forestry,
soil-carbon conservation, and
stewardship grounded in Native
Hawaiian knowledge and practices.
Governance,
funding, and
monitoring
Climate action is distributed across
County departments and requires
sustained coordination with state and
federal agencies, utilities, businesses,
nonprofit organizations, researchers, and
communities. Limited funding,
inconsistent data, unclear
responsibilities, and changing conditions
can impede implementation and
accountability.
Integrate climate objectives into
departmental plans, regulations,
budgets, procurement, and capital
projects. Define responsibilities,
schedules, performance measures, and
funding strategies for priority actions.
Pursue grants, partnerships, incentives,
and financing mechanisms that
advance equitable outcomes. Regularly
update greenhouse gas inventories and
climate-risk information, publicly
report progress, and revise actions as
science, technology, community needs,
and fiscal conditions change.
35. Page 57-58, 3.1.2 Climate Action in Hawaiʻi County
Rationale for change: Simplifies language to reduce redundancy with ICAP, fixes
for replacement language to align with Federal administration.
Amend the text as follows:
“As outlined in detail by the ICAP, [t]The County has a dual role to play in climate
action: climate mitigation and climate adaptation. Climate mitigation refers to
actions that reduce the flow of greenhouse gases (GHG) into the atmosphere,
either by reducing sources of these gases or enhancing the sinks that accumulate
and store these gases. Mitigation serves to ensure that future climate change is as
moderate and manageable as possible. Climate adaptation refers to actions to
help people adjust to the current and future effects of climate change. Adaptation
primarily responds to and manages climate change that cannot be prevented. Both
climate mitigation and adaptation are complementary and work in conjunction to
protect communities from the [harms]impacts of a changing climate[ change].
26
Implementation should be coordinated with the Integrated Climate Action Plan and
the relevant land use, transportation, energy, housing, infrastructure, natural
resources, public health, and economic-development provisions of the General
Plan as described in the following table.”
Topic Page
Reference
Principal issue General Plan response
Transportation TBD Fossil-fuel use and
automobile
dependence
Reduce vehicle miles
traveled; expand transit,
active transportation,
and renewable-powered
fleets
Energy TBD Imported fuels and
inefficient facilities
Improve efficiency and
expand renewable
energy
Waste
Management
TBD Methane, material
consumption, and
water pollution
Reduce, reuse,
compost, and
modernize treatment
Land Use and
Ecosystems
TBD Loss of carbon sinks
and protective
natural systems
Protect forests,
watersheds, wetlands,
reefs, and agricultural
lands
Land Use and
Infrastructure
TBD Sea-level rise, heat,
drought, wildfire,
and flooding
Use risk-informed land-
use and infrastructure
decisions
36. Page 69, 3.2 Climate Change Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policies 7.2, 7.13, 7.15, and 7.16 as follows:
“[Require]Encourage energy-efficient designs in all new County facilities and
upgrade existing facilities with energy-efficient systems.
[All ]County facilities [shall]should [report]monitor energy usage annually.
27
The Mass Transit Agency [shall]should operate a net zero emissions fleet by 2035.
[Prioritize]Program the installation of electric vehicle chargers at community
facilities, for both County vehicles and public parking.”
37. Page 71, 3.2 Climate Change Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 8.5 as follows:
“Climate change adaptation strategies [shall]should be considered in County
budgetary, land use, water stewardship, fire mitigation, and other decision-
making processes.”
38. Page 71, 3.2 Climate Change Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball
Amend to remove Action 8.d:
“[Adopt a land acquisition program with potential leaseback options for the
purchase of hazard-prone locations or those with beneficial attributes for climate
adaptation and mitigation.]”
4. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
4.1 LAND USE
39. Page 74, 4.1.1 Introduction
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Amend the Land Use Introduction text as follows:
“The land use element of the General Plan [is intended to be used as a policy
guide ]shall serve as the primary governing framework for coordinated growth
and sustainable development across [our]the island, establishing binding
direction for the location, intensity, and timing of development. The County shall
direct the majority of future residential, commercial, and employment growth to
designated Urban Growth Areas (UGAs) and infrastructure-served centers,
28
including Hilo, Kailua-Kona, Waikoloa, Waimea, and other mapped urban
centers. Secondary growth areas shall include existing town centers and transit-
supportive corridors. Limited growth areas shall include rural and agricultural
areas, particularly those with insufficient infrastructure. Restricted growth areas
will be those areas with high hazard exposure. Development intensity shall
decrease progressively from primary growth areas to restricted growth areas.
As required by the State Planning Act, this section contains goals, policies,
standards, and implementation priority actions to define patterns of future growth
and guide the location and density of land uses within the County, including the
identification of priority growth areas, limited growth areas, and areas where
development intensity shall be constrained by infrastructure capacity and hazard
exposure. The land use section seeks to establish the most desirable use of land
and the desirable distribution of population and development intensity across
regions of the County, in accordance with County Charter, section 3-15, for
residential, recreational, agricultural, commercial, industrial, and other purposes
which shall be consistent with the proper conservation of natural resources and
the preservation of our natural beauty and historical sites.
[The land use section is a land-based synthesis of the values, goals, and
objectives of the other sections comprising this Plan. ]This component guides
where and how land uses, infrastructure, and services should be directed to
promote and protect the values of the people of Hawaiʻi Island and to best
achieve the goals and objectives outlined in the various elements of the Plan.”
40. Page 75, 4.1.1 Introduction
Rationale for change: Fixes a spelling/grammar error.
Amend the Land Use Introduction text as follows:
“Figure [4]6 illustrates the interconnected layers of land use planning,
emphasizing their interdependence and overlap to achieve the General Plan’s
comprehensive goals.”
41. Page 76, Table 16: Land Use Key Trends
Rationale for change: Fixes a spelling/grammar error.
Amend Table 16, Changing & Aging Population as follows:
• “About 90% of the growth on average is through [in-migration]immigration.”
29
42. Page 78, Table 17: Land Use Challenges
Rationale for change: Fixes a spelling/grammar error.
Amend Table 17 as follows:
“Infrastructure
• A lack of existing infrastructure with low capacity, limited service areas, and
aging facilities, in addition to the[e] high costs of developing new systems,
presents significant challenges.”
43. Page 77, Table 17: Land Use Challenges
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Amend Table 17 as follows:
“Public Engagement & Planning Implications
• NIMBYism can present barriers to collaborative processes.
• General misunderstanding and misinformation about land use policies can
delay and disrupt strategic land use patterns.
• Public hearing processes can become political rather than regulatory
processes.
• Majority of rural population requires clear differentiation between rural lifestyle
and urban service delivery.
• Housing affordability requires targeted density increases in infrastructure -
served areas.
• Aging population requires compact, service-accessible development
patterns.”
44. Page 78, Table 18: Land Use Opportunities
Rationale for change: Fixes a spelling/grammar error.
Amend Table 18, Infrastructure as follows:
• “Increase housing density by utilizing [additional] accessory dwelling units
(ADU) in existing residential districts served by adequate utilities.”
30
45. Page 78, Table 18: Land Use Opportunities
Rationale for change: Fixes a spelling/grammar error.
Amend Table 18, Land Use Compatibility as follows:
• “[Eliminate unpermitted non-conforming uses and d]Develop proper land use
patterns to ensure urban areas are used accordingly.”
46. Page 79, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Amend Policy 9.2 as follows:
“In those cases where provisions of the zoning and subdivision code are
inconsistent with the character of surrounding neighborhoods[, variances, or]
Planned Unit Developments (PUD) that maintain consistent village/town
character should be encouraged.”
47. Page 79, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Amend Policy 9.6 as follows:
“In the review of discretionary permits, [consider land use compatibility]require
and demonstrate compatibility with surrounding land uses to ensure proximate
compatible and complementary uses and appropriate mitigation measures.”
48. Page 80, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Amend Policy 11.1 as follows:
“Ensure [there is]that development projects have the necessary and adequate
on-site infrastructure [for development projects may], including, but not limited to,
water, wastewater, and multimodal infrastructure.”
31
49. Page 81, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Amend Policy 11.4 as follows:
“Concurrency and development reviews [should incorporate reduction in vehicle
miles traveled to mitigate traffic impacts and achieve sustainability and demand
management goals.shall evaluate and seek to reduce project-generated VMT
while maintaining safe and equitable multimodal access and encourage
development in areas where multimodal infrastructure exists or is planned.”
50. Page 81, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Add the following new policy after Policy 11.6:
“Variances should not be granted where they could undermine future
infrastructure opportunities.”
51. Page 82, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball
Amend Action 12.f as follows:
“Study the feasibility, issues, and opportunities of a TDR or Purchase of
Development Rights (PDR) program to incentivize development away from high-
risk hazard areas.”
52. Page 83, 4.1.3 Overview of Land Use Designations and Maps
Rationale for change: Based on public testimony from Chris Yuen, previous
Planning Director and request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm 372.198).
Amend the Purpose and Authority of the General Plan Land Use Map text as
follows:
“The designated land uses are delineated on the General Plan Land Use Map.
The broad-brush boundaries indicated are graphic expressions of the General
32
Plan policies, particularly those relating to land use. They are forward-looking,
long-range guides to the general location and will be subject to a) existing
zoning; and b) the State Land Use District. Rezoning must be consistent with the
General Plan, including the Land Use Map. While some future actions must be
consistent with the Plan, it is not retroactive and does not change existing
subdivisions or zoning. Similarly, the acreages allocated represent alternatives
for the various levels of economic activity and supporting functions, such as
resort, residential, commercial, and industrial activities. The land use pattern is a
broad, flexible design intended to [guide the direction and quality of future
developments in a coordinated and rational manner]serve as the primary policy
framework governing the geographic distribution and intensity of development.
The General Plan Land Use Map indicates the general location of various land
uses in relation to each other.”
53. Page 83, 4.1.3 Overview of Land Use Designations and Maps
Rationale for change: Based on public testimony from Chris Yuen, previous
Planning Director and request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm 372.198).
Amend the Interpretation text as follows:
“The General Plan Land Use Map is not meant to be exact. The official General
Plan Land Use Maps are the paper versions found in this document. Although
the maps are available in a GIS format that can be blown up to a much larger
scale, that are not meant to be accurate at larger scales. Even at the scale in the
official maps, the various boundaries are broad-brush and not exact.
Interpretation of the General Plan Land Use Map should be reviewed against the
following criteria: parcel boundaries, census block groups, place types, County
zoning designations, State land use designations, and Community Development
Plan (CDP) guidance. Because of the scale of the land use maps, the location of
designated Natural lands should be verified by more detailed mapping when
considering specific land use decisions. In the event of questions related to the
General Plan land use designation of a parcel or area, the Planning Director will
utilize the above criteria and any other relevant research and information
available at the time to provide a clear interpretation of the General Plan Land
Use Maps. Interpretation shall prioritize consistency with the Urban Growth
Area’s designation, infrastructure capacity, hazard exposure and adopted
densities.”
33
54. Page 84-85, Table 19: General Plan Land Use Designations and Maps
Rationale for change: Based on public testimony from Chris Yuen, previous
Planning Director.
Amend the Urban Land Use Table to include additional zoning districts to the
description as follows:
University (UNI)
Public university, including ancillary public uses, residential,
and support commercial uses. Compatible Zoning may
include CV, CN, PD, RM, RD, RS, UNV.
Resort (RES)
Uses include a mix of visitor-related uses such as hotels,
condominium hotels (condominiums developed and/or
operated as hotels), single-family and multiple-family
residential units, golf courses and other typical resort
recreational facilities, resort commercial complexes, and other
support services. Compatible Zoning
may include CV, CN, PD, RM, RD, RS, V.
Amend the Agriculture and Natural Land Use Table as follows:
Natural (NAT) Lands to be kept in a largely natural state with minimal
facilities consistent with open space uses along with
agricultural land uses, and residential uses to the extent
allowed by zoning. Includes areas vulnerable to natural
hazards, steep slopes, lava fields, and areas set aside for
cultural and/or natural resource preservation purposes that
are not necessarily under active management. Compatible
Zoning may include RA, FA, A, OPEN.
55. Page 88, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Add the new policy after Policy 13.17:
34
“Expansion of development outside of UGAs should be limited to areas with
infrastructure capacity and demonstrated public benefit. Hazard mitigation
policies should also be considered.”
56. Page 88, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 13.20 as follows:
“Infrastructure and design elements [shall ]should be incorporated into the review
of commercial developments.”
57. Page 88, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 13.23 as follows:
“Distribution of commercial areas [shall ]should meet the demands of
neighborhood, community, and regional needs in accordance with Smart Growth
principles.”
58. Page 88, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Amend Policy 13.24 as follows:
“Prohibit new [Discourage]strip or spot commercial development on the highway
outside of the UGAs.”
59. Page 89, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Amend Policy 13.36 as follows:
“Industrial uses [may be permitted outside UGAs through Special Permits only
when]should be limited outside of the UGAs to cases where there is a clear
35
community benefit or consistent with County, State, and Federal sustainability
objectives.”
60. Page 90, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.199).
Add the new policy to Objective 13, Industrial as follows:
“Data centers shall be limited to industrial and infrastructure-intensive areas and
shall not exceed existing of planned electrical, water, wastewater, and
telecommunications capacity.”
61. Page 89, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Clarifying language.
Amend Policy 13.45 as follows:
“Do not allow new Resort (V) zoning [development]along the ocean side of Aliʻi
Drive.”
62. Page 89, 4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 13.49 as follows:
“On-site affordable housing and workforce units [shall ]should be excluded from
the total permitted visitor unit counts for existing and new resort developments.”
63. Page 91, Urban Standard Guidelines – Table 20: Transit-Oriented Development
(TOD) Standard Guidelines
Rationale for change: Addresses a gap to identify urban centers for Hawaii
County Code Chapter 25 (Zoning Code) Concurrency requirements.
Amend Table 20 as follows:
36
Example Locations Pahoa, Keaau, Downtown Hilo, Honokaa, Palamanui,
Makaeo, Honokohau Village, Kailua Village,
Kealakekua, Waimea, Waikoloa, Naalehu
Range of Possible
Services
District park, regional park; schools (all grades);
community hall; elderly or other special needs
housing; medical facility with emergency room; police
and fire station
64. Page 92, Urban Standard Guidelines – Table 21: Traditional Neighborhood
Development (TND) Standard Guidelines
Rationale for change: Addresses a gap to identify urban centers for Hawaii
County Code Chapter 25 (Zoning Code) Concurrency requirements.
Amend Table 21 as follows:
Example Locations Hawaiian Paradise Park, Volcano Village, Papaikou,
Pepeekeo, Honomu, Laupāhoehoe, Hāwī, Kawaihae,
Kalaoa, Kaloko Makai, Keahuolu Village, Puaa-
Waiaa, Kahului Village, Captain Cook, Pāhala
65. Page 93, Urban Standard Guidelines – Table 22: Urban Neighborhood Center
Standard Guidelines
Rationale for change: Addresses a gap to identify urban centers for Hawaii
County Code Chapter 25 (Zoning Code) Concurrency requirements.
Amend Table 22 as follows:
Example Locations Kaumana, Wainaku, Kapaau, Kahaluu Makai,
Keauhou, Hawaiian Ocean View Estates[, Hawaiian
Paradise Park]
66. Page 94, Urban Standard Guidelines – Table 23: Industrial Center Standard
Guidelines
Rationale for change: Addresses a gap to identify industrial areas for Hawaii
County Code Chapter 25 (Zoning Code) Concurrency requirements.
37
Amend Table 23 as follows:
General Industrial and
Innovation
Service and Innovation
Existing
Locations
Shipman Industrial Park,
Kanoelehua Industrial Area,
Hilo Airport, Panaewa,
Pepeekeo, Ookala, Haina,
Halaula, Kawaihae and Hilo
Harbors, Keahole Airport,
Kaloko Industrial Area, West
Hawaiʻi Business Park
Pahoa, Hawaiian Paradise
Park, Hilo Iron Works,
Waiakea House Lots,
Laupāhoehoe/Papaʻaloa,
Hāwī, Waimea, Waikoloa,
Kainaliu-Honalo, Kona
Industrial Center, Honokōhau,
Natural Energy Lab,
Kealakekua-Captain Cook,
Hawaiian Ocean View Estates,
Naʻalehu, Pāhala[Kaloko
Industrial Area.]
Character • Located close to raw
materials or key resources,
generally considered to be
offensive and noxious.
• Noxious, heavy industrial
uses should be separated
from residential and other
incompatible uses with buffer
zones.
• Topography of industrial land
[shall]should be reasonably
level.
• Direction of wind patterns
and the absence of trade
winds [shall]should be
considered in the siting.
• Located close to
population centers, for
business and industrial
uses (not considered
noxious or heavy
industrial) that are
generally in support of, but
not necessarily compatible
with activities and uses in
other commercial districts.
• Topography of industrial
land [shall]should be
reasonably level.
• Direction of wind patterns
and the absence of trade
winds [shall]should be
considered in the siting
38
67. Page 95, Urban Standard Guidelines – Table 24: Criteria for Industrial Land
Conversion to Commercial/Mixed-Use
Rationale for change: Revise the spelling to conform with standard usage and
maintain consistency throughout the plan.
Transportation • Proximity to freight
and/or port facilities
• Low Vehicle Miles
Trave[l]led for workers
on industrial land
• Proximity to transit
• High Vehicle Miles
Trave[l]led for workers
on industrial land
68. Page 96, Urban Standard Guidelines – Table 25: Resort Area Standard
Guidelines
Rationale for change: Addresses a gap to identify resort areas.
Amend Table 25 as follows:
MAJOR
RESORT
AREA
INTERMEDIATE
RESORT AREA
MINOR
RESORT
AREA
RETREAT
RESORT
AREA
Example
Locations
Waikoloa,
Keauhou,
Kaupulehu-
Kukio, Mauna
Kea Beach
Hotel, Mauna
Lani[.]
Waiakea
Peninsula[,
Punaluʻu]
Keaukaha,
Wainaku,
Punaluu
Kalani Honua,
etc.
Typical
Visitor Units
3,000 units 1,500 units 500 units 40 units,
without
individual
kitchens[.]
Approximate
Land Area
Resort
Acreage: 90
acres
minimum
Resort Acreage: 45 acres minimum
Resort
Acreage: ~25
acres
Resort
Acreage: ~15
acres
GP Land Use
Resort Resort Resort Various
39
Active and
Passive
Recreation
50 acres
minimum
25 acres
minimum
Provide active
and passive
recreation
areas
commensurate
with the scale
of
development[.]
Provide active
and passive
recreation
areas
commensurate
with the scale
of
development[.]
Typical Uses Self-contained
resort
destination
area that
provides basic
and support
facilities for
the needs of
the entire
development[.]
Self-contained
resort
destination area
that provides
basic and
support facilities
for the needs of
the entire
development on
a smaller scale
than a major
resort area
Small resort
destination
area that relies
on the nearby
community for
amenities and
support
facilities[.]
Area that
provides the
user with rest,
quiet, and
isolation for an
environmental
experience[.]
Compatible
Zoning
V V V V, or by
Special Permit
Access
Access to one
or more public
roads;
commercial or
public uses
without direct
driveway
access to
highway
Walkable
Walking and
bicycling paths
Transit Hub
Public access
to and parking
for beach and
shoreline
areas
Access to one or
more public
roads;
commercial or
public uses
without direct
driveway access
to highway
Walkable
Walking and
bicycling paths
Transit Hub
Public access to
and parking for
beach and
shoreline areas
Access to one
or more public
roads;
commercial or
public uses
without direct
driveway
access to
highway
Walkable
Walking and
bicycling paths
Transit Hub
Public access
to and parking
for beach and
shoreline
areas
Access to one
or more paved
roads;
[Shall]should
not be
accessed
through
substandard
roads or
roads-in-limbo
unless
meeting fire
safety and not
impacting
traffic within
the existing
neighborhood;
Transit (or
paratransit)
stops; Public
access to and
40
parking for
beach and
shoreline
areas
Workforce
Housing
Meet
affordable
housing
requirements
of the Hawaiʻi
County
Housing Code
Meet affordable
housing
requirements of
the Hawaiʻi
County Housing
Code
Meet
affordable
housing
requirements
of the Hawaiʻi
County
Housing Code
Meet
affordable
housing
requirements
of the Hawaiʻi
County
Housing Code
Character Consistent
with the
surrounding
area's quality,
ambiance, and
character
Consistent with
the surrounding
area's quality,
ambiance, and
character
Consistent
with the
surrounding
area's quality,
ambiance, and
character
Consistent
with the
surrounding
area's quality,
ambiance, and
character
69. Page 98, 4.1.5 Rural
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Amend Policy 14.4 as follows:
“Rural-style residential-agricultural developments, such as new small-scale rural
communities or extensions of existing rural communities, should be incentivized
to cluster [in appropriate locations]to minimize infrastructure costs and preserve
open areas.”
70. Page 98, 4.1.5 Rural
Rationale for change: Addresses a gap to identify rural center for Hawaii County
Code Chapter 25 (Zoning Code) Concurrency requirements.
Add the new policy following Policy 14.6:
“To facilitate the development of Rural Neighborhood Centers, consider waiving
public water system requirements for zoning amendment applications, provided
that an adequate alternative water supply is available to meet applicable public
health, sanitation, and fire-protection requirements.”
41
71. Page 99, 4.1.5 Rural – Table 26: Rural Neighborhood Standard Guidelines
Rationale for change: Addresses a gap to identify rural centers for Hawaii County
Code Chapter 25 (Zoning Code) Concurrency requirements.
Amend Table 26 as follows:
Example Locations Kurtistown, Orchidland, Mountain View, Ookala,
Paauilo, Niulii, Halaula, Puako, Lalamilo, Kainaliu,
Holualoa, Hokulia, Hawaiian Ocean View Estates,
Waiohinu, Volcano Village, [Hawaiian Paradise
Park, ]Kaumana City
72. Page 100, 4.1.6 Agriculture
Rationale for change: Correct spelling error.
Amend the following text as follows:
“One of the primary challenges to the maximization of agricultural production is
access to affordable land. Productive agricultural land values have risen beyond
their value for agricultural purposes due to increases in non-agricultural
residential uses. Other impediments to agricultural production include labor cost,
labor availability, and limited market access. The agricultural industry is
constantly evolving and has shifted away from larger-scale production and now
includes value-added processing and agricultural tourism. This shift has resulted
in the need to manage large tracts of otherwise unmanaged agricultural lands.
Unmanaged lands are often full of fire-prone grasses and shrubs which create
dangerous conditions for wildfires. The land use regulatory system should
encourage the management of all [agriculural]agricultural lands and must be
flexible to adapt and allow the agricultural industry to make changes that help it
to succeed.”
73. Page 101, 4.1.6 Agriculture
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Amend Policy 15.1 as follows:
“Development in Productive Agriculture and Extensive Agriculture areas should
include agricultural uses as the primary land use, related economic infrastructure
42
and cottage industries, compatible renewable energy, open area recreational
uses, community facilities, and compatible agriculture worker housing.”
74. Page 101, 4.1.6 Agriculture
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Amend Policy 15.6 as follows:
“Any subdivision or agriculture worker housing complex developed on Productive
Agricultural Lands should be clustered to minimize [impact]infrastructure costs
and preserve open space.”
75. Page 101, 4.1.6 Agriculture
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.198).
Add the new policy following Policy 15.11:
“(Non-agricultural) residential development should not be the dominant use on
Productive Agricultural parcels larger than three acres.”
4.2 TRANSPORTATION ACCESS AND MOBILITY
76. Page 108, 4.2.2 Transportation Goal, Objective, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Sentence reorganization for clarification.
Amend Policies 16.4 and 16.13 as follows:
“Improve the integration of [T]transportation and land use planning in order[shall
be integrated ]to optimize the use, efficiency, and accessibility of existing and
proposed mass transportation systems[ and future demand].”
“There shall be coordinated planning of transportation systems for the
funding of projects in areas of anticipated growth and to meet program
goals of other elements such as historic, recreational,
environmental[ quality], and land use.”
43
77. Page 111, 4.2.3 Active Living Corridors and Public Access
Rationale for change: Based on request from State of Hawaiʻi Department of
Land and Natural Resources, Nā Ala Hele Advisory Council dated February 18,
2025.
Add the following new policies under Objective 17 and renumber accordingly:
“Ensure public access is provided to the shoreline, public trails and
hunting areas, including free public parking where appropriate.
The County of Hawaii shall establish public access to and along the
shoreline, to significant historic sites, public transit along the top of cliff,
streams and other natural water courses, mauka trails, facilities, and
access to sites for gathering, fishing, hunting, and other recreational
purposes and in accordance with Hawaii County Code Chapter 34.”
78. Page 111, 4.2.3 Active Living Corridors and Public Access
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 17.3 as follows:
“Prior to disposing of, leasing, or transferring public lands through County
Property Management procedures, the County [shall ]should assess, document,
and protect access to existing active living corridors that are located on County-
owned parcels.”
79. Page 111, 4.2.3 Active Living Corridors and Public Access
Rationale for change: Clarifying language. Based on identified gaps in
addressing or applying consistent public access regulations and procedures.
Amend Policy 17.4 as follows:
“Land use applications [shall ]should identify as early as possible any existing
trails or potential active living corridors that should be protected and incorporated
into the County’s open space network, and where appropriate, provide for public
access through a secured, documented, and recorded public access plan.”
44
80. Page 111, 4.2.3 Active Living Corridors and Public Access
Rationale for change: Based on request from State of Hawaiʻi Department of
Land and Natural Resources, Nā Ala Hele Advisory Council dated February 18,
2025.
Amend Policy 17.6 as follows:
“Where safe and feasible, [P]provide public pedestrian access opportunities to
scenic places and vistas while protecting its scenic qualities and character.”
81. Page 111, 4.2.3 Active Living Corridors and Public Access
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball.
Amend Policy 17.7 as follows:
“Establish and maintain public access and facilities to historic and modern active
living corridors, including shoreline access, historic trails, mauka-to-makai routes,
and cultural access areas that[ provide] contribute to an island-wide[ route and
connect to] network connecting major destinations.”
82. Page 111, 4.2.3 Active Living Corridors and Public Access
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball.
Add the new Action 7.a under Objective 17 and renumber accordingly:
“Establish a County Public Access and Trail Program with sufficient staff and
resources to include inventory, mapping, enforcement, and maintenance
responsibilities.”
83. Page 111, 4.2.3 Active Living Corridors and Public Access
Rationale for change: Clarifying language.
Amend Action 17.a as follows:
“Develop and adopt a program to establish public access to historic and modern
active living corridors and facilities that[ provide] contribute to an island-wide
[route and connect] network connecting [to] major destinations.”
45
84. Page 111, 4.2.3 Active Living Corridors and Public Access
Rationale for change: Based on request from State of Hawaiʻi Department of
Land and Natural Resources, Nā Ala Hele Advisory Council dated February 18,
2025.
Amend Action 17.d as follows:
“Establish [a ]public-private partnerships, including financing strategies, to
manage and [for ]maintain[ing] public access to the shoreline, fishing areas,
public trails, hunting areas, scenic places and vistas, and significant historic sites,
buildings, and objects of public interest.”
85. Page 111, 4.2.3 Active Living Corridors and Public Access
Rationale for change: Based on request from State of Hawaiʻi Department of
Land and Natural Resources, Nā Ala Hele Advisory Council dated February 18,
2025. And based on identified gaps in addressing or applying consistent public
access regulations and procedures.
Add the following new actions under Objective 17 and renumber accordingly:
“Actively implement the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail Memorandum of
Understanding.
Develop procedural guidelines for reviewing and renegotiating active access
agreements to maintain and improve public access and trails.
Incorporate consideration of scenic resource protection and public pedestrian
access opportunities into applicable land use application review processes.”
86. Page 116, 4.2.5 Roadways
Rationale for change: Clarifies the overall objective is about reducing household
costs, not about reducing VMT.
Amend Objective 19 as follows:
“Reduce household transportation costs by shortening trips and expanding safe,
reliable, and affordable alternatives to driving alone[vehicle miles traveled
(VMT)].”
46
87. Page 116, 4.2.5 Roadways
Rationale for change: Clarifies that the intent of policy is not to add vehicle lanes.
Amend Policy 19.2 as follows:
“Increase the person-carrying [arterial ]capacity and safety [through prioritization
of alternative means ]of transportation corridors by prioritizing[, such as mass]
transit, walking, [bicycle]bicycling, micromobility, ridesharing, and other
alternatives to single-occupancy vehicle travel[and pedestrian systems].”
88. Page 116, 4.2.5 Roadways
Rationale for change: Clarifying language.
Amend Policy 19.3 as follows:
“[Incorporate bicycle routes, lanes, and paths within road rights-of-way]Develop
connected, low-stress pedestrian and bicycle networks that provide safe and
direct access to schools, employment, commercial areas, transit stops, parks,
and community facilities.”
89. Page 116, 4.2.5 Roadways
Rationale for change: Clarification and readability.
Amend Policy 19.4 as follows:
“[Increase mobility for minors, non-licensed adults, low income, elderly, and
people with mobility limitations through prioritization of alternative means of
transportation]Prioritize reliable and affordable transportation options for people
who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle, including youth, kūpuna,
people with disabilities, and households with limited incomes.”
90. Page 117, 4.2.5 Roadways
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 20.6 as follows:
“A corridor planning/management program[ shall] should be maintained to help
prioritize various active transportation projects.”
47
91. Page 118, 4.2.5 Roadways
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 21.5 as follows:
“[At a minimum, t]The County[ shall] should plan, site, and develop roads,
bridges, and highways to:”
92. Page 119, 4.2.5 Roadways
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 23.5 as follows:
“Evaluate freight routes identified in the State Freight Master Plan for[ required]
improvements to meet roadway standards.”
4.3 PUBLIC UTILITIES
93. Page 125, 4.3.1 Introduction
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.199).
Amend the Introduction as follows:
“In Hawaiʻi County’s pursuit of a prosperous and resilient future, public utilities
stand as pillars of essential infrastructure and serve as the primary determinant
of the location, intensity, and timing of development across the County. These
are services regulated by the government and provided in response to existing
and prospective patterns of development. Changes in land use, population
density, and development usually generate changes in the demand and supply of
utilities. As the backbone of modern society, public utilities encompass a wide
range of vital services that support the health, safety, and sustainability of our
communities. This critical infrastructure allows us to function in many ways,
including the ability to maintain healthy living conditions, proper sanitation, and
access reliable energy to power our homes and businesses.
Public utilities play a key role in forming the foundation upon which social,
economic, and environmental progress is built. Such essential services enhance
the quality of life for residents, visitors, and businesses while safeguarding the
natural resources and cultural heritage of our island. The significance of public
48
utilities can be understood through their contributions in the areas of
environmental sustainability, economic prosperity, and social well-being.
Public utilities drive environmental stewardship by promoting [clean]renewable
energy generation, efficient water management, waste reduction, and recycling
initiatives. Through the application of sustainable practices and technologies,
public utilities protect our fragile ecosystems, mitigate climate change impacts,
and preserve the beauty of our island for future generations. Additionally, robust
and reliable infrastructure attracts investment, supports economic growth, and
fosters job creation. From powering local industries to enabling efficient
transportation networks, public utilities are catalysts for economic development,
making our communities more resilient in the face of challenges.
Access to safe and affordable utilities is a fundamental right of every individual.
Public utilities ensure resources, equitable allowing distribution residents of all
socioeconomic backgrounds to enjoy necessities such as clean water, affordable
energy, and accessible internet-based services. These services enhance public
health, education, and overall quality of life, fostering thriving and inclusive
communities.
Given the unique challenges posed by our geography and vulnerable ecosystem,
the General Plan aims to effectively guide the development, maintenance, and
improvement of these critical services. This section of the Plan is primarily
concerned with the planning aspects of our, water, wastewater, stormwater,
electricity, and telecommunications systems. Planning for the location of utility
facilities such as reservoirs, pumping stations, and sewage treatment plants is an
important aspect of the land planning process, as it makes way for development
opportunities.
Unintegrated utilities can burden developments with lower levels of service and
may limit or even prevent development. The integration and availability of public
utilities in [priority ]growth areas are [imperative]a priority. Utility planning should
be used to direct growth toward designated Urban Growth Areas and away from
areas lacking infrastructure or subject to hazard exposure. Changes in the
intensity of land use greatly influence the quantitative design of utilities and
services, particularly their design capacity. There may be distinctions in the type
of services offered for each utility as land use intensities vary. These distinctions
also depend on local codes and ordinances, health and sanitary considerations,
and practices followed by utility companies.”
49
94. Page 130, 4.3.2 Public Utilities Goal, Objective, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.199).
Amend Policies 25.1, 25.2, and 25.4 and add the new policies as follows:
“Public utility facilities [shall]should be designed at a scale that meets the needs
of future development and support the County’s General Plan land use
framework.”
“Provide utilities and service facilities that minimize total cost to the public and
effectively serve the needs of the community and prioritize investment in
designated Urban Growth Areas.”
“Improvement of existing utility services [shall]should be encouraged to meet the
needs of users.”
“Development intensity should not exceed available infrastructure capacity
unless such capacity is fully funded and programmed in the Capital
Improvements Program.”
“High-intensity infrastructure uses, including data centers, shall be evaluated
based on infrastructure demand, resource consumption, and consistency with
County’s land use priorities.”
95. Page 132, 4.3.3 Drinking Water Conservation
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kanealii-
Kleinfelder and review of mandatory language.
Amend the Policies 26.9, 26.10, and 26.11 as follows:
“The DWS shall prioritize infill development and focus source development to
serve designated Urban Growth Areas and areas prone to growth with potential
for build out.
Water demand projections [shall]should include all consumptive and non-
consumptive demands.
The DWS and the Planning Department [shall]should coordinate priorities before
the adoption of any new water development or County land use plans.”
50
96. Page 132, 4.3.3 Drinking Water Conservation
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.199).
Add the new policies under Objective 26 after Policy 26.12:
“Large-scale industrial or infrastructure-intensive uses, including data centers,
shall demonstrate sustainable water supply and shall not adversely impact
aquifer capacity or water availability for residential and agricultural uses.
Potable water supply shall not be used for industrial-scale cooling where
alternative methods are feasible.”
97. Page 137, 4.3.4 Wastewater Treatment and Reuse
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policies 27.3 and 27.4 under Objective 27 as follows:
“Immediate steps [shall]should be taken to designate treatment plant sites,
sewerage pump station sites, and sewer easements according to the facility
plans to facilitate their acquisition.
[The County shall obtain ]Continue to seek State and Federal funds to finance
the construction of proposed sewer systems and improve existing systems.”
98. Page 137, 4.3.4 Wastewater Treatment and Reuse
Rationale for change: Fixes for replacement language to align with Federal
administration.
Amend the policy heading as follows:
“Wastewater [and Environmental Quality ]Prioritization”
99. Page 137, 4.3.4 Wastewater Treatment and Reuse
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 27.8, as follows:
51
“The Department of Environmental Management and the Planning Department
[shall]should coordinate priorities before the adoption of any new wastewater
development or land use plans.”
100. Page 137, 4.3.4 Wastewater Treatment and Reuse
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.199).
Add the new policy after Policy 27.11:
“Data centers and similar high-intensity uses shall demonstrate wastewater
capacity and shall not rely on individual wastewater systems for urban-scale
operations.”
101. Page 138, 4.3.4 Wastewater Treatment and Reuse
Rationale for change: Fixes for replacement language to align with Federal
administration.
Amend the action heading as follows:
Wastewater [and Environmental Quality ]Prioritization
102. Page 142, 4.3.5 Stormwater Infiltration and Green Infrastructure
Rationale for change: Uncapitalize the term to reflect its use as a general term.
Amend Policy 28.1 as follows:
“Design to collect stormwater from streets, sidewalks, and other hard surfaces
before it can enter the sewer system or cause local flooding; reduce the amount
of stormwater that flows into the [S]sewer [S]system.”
103. Page 142, 4.3.5 Stormwater Infiltration and Green Infrastructure
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 28.8 as follows:
“Drainage standards [shall]should incorporate cumulative upslope development
patterns.”
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104. Page 142, 4.3.5 Stormwater Infiltration and Green Infrastructure
Rationale for change: Revise to conform with standard usage and maintain
consistent terminology throughout the plan.
Amend the policy heading as follows:
“[Storm Water]Stormwater Management”
105. Page 142, 4.3.5 Stormwater Infiltration and Green Infrastructure
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 28.10, Stormwater Management as follows:
“The County [shall]should ensure sites are planned, designed, and developed
to:”
106. Page 142-143, 4.3.5 Stormwater Infiltration and Green Infrastructure
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 28.11, Stormwater Management as follows:
“[The County shall ensure that ]Require golf courses to [developments develop
and ]implement best management practices to limit leaching of nutrients to
groundwater in areas where they may affect streams or coastal
ecosystems.[grading and site preparation plans to:
a) Develop nutrient management guidelines appropriate to Hawaiʻi for qualified
superintendents to implement so that nutrients are applied at rates necessary to
establish and maintain vegetation without causing leaching into ground and
surface waters.
b) Develop and implement an integrated pest management plan. Follow EPA
guidelines for the proper storage and disposal of pesticides.
c) Develop and implement irrigation management practices to match the water
needs of the turf.]”
107. Page 143, 4.3.5 Stormwater Infiltration and Green Infrastructure
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
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Amend Policy 28.12, Stormwater Management as follows:
“The County [shall]should minimize impervious areas on County property,
development sites, and parking areas and promote the use of permeable
surfaces and landscaped areas in project designs including:”
108. Page 143, 4.3.5 Stormwater Infiltration and Green Infrastructure
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.199).
Add the new policy to Stormwater Management after Policy 28.12:
“Large-scale developments, including data centers, shall incorporate on-site
stormwater retention and green infrastructure practices to mitigate runoff and
reduce system burden.”
109. Page 144, 4.3.6 Electricity and Renewable Energy
Rationale for change: Fixes for replacement language to align with Federal
administration.
Amend the text as follows:
Hawaiʻi Island’s communities and economy rely on the constant availability of
energy. The fossil fuels consumed in Hawaiʻi are predominantly used for
transportation or used to produce electricity. However, our energy needs today
are being met with an increasingly cleaner combination of energy sources.
Hawaiʻi possesses an abundance of natural resources, including wind, solar,
flowing water, wave, bioenergy, and geothermal, that can be used to produce
energy. Harnessing these resources while reducing the use of non- renewable
sources, such as petroleum, coal, and fossil-based natural gas is key to
achieving our State’s [clean ]energy goals. Hawaiʻi County is focused on
electricity transformation to renewable energy. This transition supports greater
resiliency for our island, independent of imports when a natural disaster or
shortage occurs.
The existing electric distribution system consists of several different voltage
levels: 2.4kV, 4.16kV, 7.2kV, 12.47kV, and 13.8kV. The distribution system
consists of both underground systems and overhead pole lines, yet overhead
pole lines are more common because of Hawaiʻi Island’s topography. The use of
underground systems has mostly been in West Hawaiʻi’s newer subdivisions and
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developments. The Hawaiʻi Electric Light Company, Inc. (HELCO) supplies
electricity for Hawaiʻi Island and operates major switching stations (used to
transfer the flow of power between different transmission circuits) at critical
locations around the island. These transmission switching stations provide
greater system flexibility and increase system reliability in supplying power to the
various distribution substations and eventually, to customers. Distribution
substations, which transform voltages to distribution voltages, are also located
island-wide in proximity to communities and other developments.
In June 2015, the State of Hawaiʻi became the first state in the country to commit
to 100 percent [clean]renewable energy. Governor Ige signed into law House Bill
623 which calls for the State of Hawaiʻi to produce 100 percent of its electricity
from renewable sources by the year 2045. As a result, renewable energy
production has been prioritized. Today, approximately 32 percent of the State’s
total energy generation comes from renewables. Renewable energy comes from
a range of local sources using various technologies and each island has a unique
composition of [clean]renewable energy generation. The renewable portfolio
standard (RPS) represents the renewable energy used by customers as a
percentage of total utility sales. In 2022, Hawaiʻi Island had a mix of renewable
sources including customer-sited solar (15.8 percent), geothermal (15.7 percent),
wind (10.6 percent), biofuel (3.5 percent), hydro-energy (2.1 percent), and grid-
scale solar (0.3 percent).
110. Page 146, 4.3.6 Electricity and Renewable Energy
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 29.3 as follows:
“The County [shall]should remove barriers to energy systems that improve
independence and resiliency, such as microgrids, combined heat and power
(CHP), backup generation and storage, and other decentralized electricity
systems.”
111. Page 146, 4.3.6 Electricity and Renewable Energy
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.199).
Add the new policies after Policy 29.7:
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“High energy-demand uses, including data centers, shall be located where
sufficient electrical capacity exists or is planned and shall not compromise grid
reliability for residential or community-serving uses.
Data centers should prioritize co-location with renewable energy generation or
energy infrastructure hubs where feasible.
The County shall evaluate the cumulative energy demand of large infrastructure
users and the impact on island-wide energy costs and resilience.”
112. Page 149, 4.3.7 Telecommunications and Broadband Connectivity
Rationale for change: Removed as redundant with current zoning code
requirements.
Remove Policy 30.5 and renumber the remaining policies accordingly:
“[Siting of new communications facilities shall comply with performance
standards and site co- location as stated in the Code.]”
4.4 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES
113. Page 153, 4.4.1 Introduction
Rationale for change: Correct spelling error.
Amend Table 36, Public Safety as follows:
• “Protective services are often [under-funded]underfunded and [over-
burdened]overburdened.”
114. Page 157, 4.4.3 Protective Services
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 32.5, Planning/Siting Protective Services Facilities as follows:
“Hardened shelters [shall]should be located within reasonable proximity to
population centers.”
115. Page 158, 4.4.3 Protective Services
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
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Amend Policy 32.22, Preventative Approaches as follows:
“Continue to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
Community Rating System (CRS) to the maximum extent possible and
[shall ]seek to improve [its ]current CRS Class rating (to the maximum extent
feasible to reduce insurance costs).”
116. Page 158, 4.4.3 Protective Services
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 32.25, Emergency Facilities and Community Systems as follows:
“All new emergency facilities [shall]should be designed to minimize and prevent
loss.”
117. Page 162, 4.4.4 Solid Waste Management
Rationale for change: Maintain consistent usage of the term “zero waste”
throughout the plan.
Amend to remove the hyphen in Policy 33.3:
“Proactively pursue funding that will ensure continued progression toward [zero-
waste]zero waste goals.”
118. Page 162, 4.4.4 Solid Waste Management
Rationale for change: Clarifying language and review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 33.9 as follows:
“[Ensure that redesign]Design plans for landfill and transfer stations should
provide adequate space for Resource Recovery (RR) Stations.”
119. Page 166, 4.4.5 Education
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policies 34.2, 34.3, and 34.4 as follows:
“In proposed communities, sufficient acreage, as determined by the Board of
Education enrollment guidelines, [shall]should be reserved for school facilities.
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Education sites [shall]should be free from flooding and drainage problems, and
excessive slope and [shall]should incorporate appropriate street and driveway
design and location to minimize traffic interference, pedestrian hazard, and
enable safe and easy access for vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians.
Continuous joint pre-planning of educational facilities [shall]should be
coordinated with the County, Department of Education, and the UH to ensure
compatibility with public services, supporting infrastructure, and equitable mobility
access so that facilities are community-centered, designed for multiple uses, and
serve as anchor institutions in the community.”
120. Page 170, 4.4.6 Recreation
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 35.8, Recreation Facilities Siting and Planning as follows:
“Recreational facilities [shall]should be assessed for dual use as emergency
shelters and hardened as needed.”
121. Page 170, 4.4.6 Recreation
Rationale for change: Revise to conform with standard usage and maintain
consistent terminology throughout the plan.
Amend to remove the hyphen in Policy 35.10, Recreation Facilities Siting and
Planning as follows:
“Recreational facilities should be planned and located where they will best
facilitate and support [active-living]active living communities.”
122. Page 173, 4.4.6 Recreation
Rationale for change: Revise to conform with standard usage and maintain
consistent terminology throughout the plan.
Amend Table 39 Park Standards, Service Area Population as follows:
“Service Area Population Vicinity of major populated areas. 5 acres/1,000
persons per [HCC]Hawaiʻi County Code, Chapter 8”
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123. Page 175, 4.4.7 Community Health and Wellness
Rationale for change: Fixes for replacement language to align with Federal
administration.
Amend the text as follows:
“Affordable and safe housing is another fundamental aspect of community health.
The General Plan addresses housing affordability and availability by promoting
diverse housing options and mixed-income neighborhoods. The Plan also
incorporates environmental sustainability measures that promote community
health. By advocating for renewable energy generation, green building practices,
and climate resilience strategies, the General Plan can guide the mitigation of
environmental risk and improve the overall environment[al quality]. This further
enhances public health outcomes and reduces vulnerability to climate-related
hazards.”
4.5 HOUSING FOR ALL
124. Page 182, 4.5.2 Housing Goal, Objective, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Replace “Urban Growth Boundary (UGB)” with “Urban
Growth Areas (UGA)” to reflect the terminology used in the plan.
Amend Policy 37.6 as follows:
“Vacant lands in the [urban growth boundary]Urban Growth Areas (UG[B]A)
should be prioritized for residential and supportive uses before additional
agricultural lands outside the UG[B]A are converted into urban uses.”
125. Page 184, 4.5.2 Housing Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language; revised
terminology to conform with standard usage and maintain consistent terminology
throughout the plan.
Amend Policy 39.3 as follows:
“All affordable housing projects that receive development benefits from the
County, such as land use/zoning approvals, special approvals (including HRS,
Section 201-H), conditional uses, and density bonuses, [shall]should be required
to maintain the affordable rental units for not less than 20 years pursuant to deed
restrictions or other mechanisms specified in the [HCC]County Code.”
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126. Page 184, 4.5.2 Housing Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Hustace.
Amend Action 39.c as follows:
“Amend land use and building regulations to consider by-right approvals that
reduce costs and streamline the processing of affordable housing applications
and facilitate concurrent applications when possible.”
4.6 INTEGRATED SYSTEMS
127. Page 188, 4.6.2 Integrated Systems Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policy 40.8 as follows:
“[Require all ]County departments [to]should collaborate with the County Office of
Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience (OSCER) as the lead agency to
ensure the integration of the County’s goals of sustainability, climate resilience,
and equity[ into all county operations and planning initiatives].”
128. Page 189, 4.6.2 Integrated Systems Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on review of mandatory language.
Amend Policies 41.10 and 41.11 as follows:
“Capital projects [shall]should be analyzed for overlapping scopes.
Projects involving more than one Department’s assets [shall]should be
coordinated to define scoping, design, and construction needs.”
129. Page 189, 4.6.2 Integrated Systems Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on gap of regularly analyzing build-out and request
from Councilmember Kimball (Comm 372.200).
Add the following new policies after Policy 41.12:
“Preparation and review of the Capital Improvements Program should consider
the foreseeable build-out of existing land-use designations.
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All major capital projects and development approvals shall include a fiscal impact
analysis, which should include evaluating lifecycle costs and maintenance
obligations.”
130. Page 189, 4.6.2 Integrated Systems Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Based on gap of regularly analyzing build-out and request
from Councilmember Kimball (Comm 372.200).
Add the following new action after Action 41.e:
“Develop and maintain a countywide land-use build-out and infrastructure-
capacity analysis, updated every comprehensive General Plan review, for use in
functional planning and annual review of the six-year Capital Improvements
Program.”
5. THRIVING, DIVERSE, AND REGENERATIVE ECONOMY
131. Page 206, 5.3.1 Agriculture and Food Systems Goal, Objectives, Policies, and
Actions
Rationale for change: Based on testimony from the Game Management
Commission.
Add the following new action after Action 46.h and renumber accordingly:
“Encourage the sustainable development of the fishing industry, various forms of
aquaculture and other fresh and seawater-based activities.”
132. Page 213, 5.4.1 Visitor Industry Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Rationale for change: Remove hyphen to clarify terminology.
Amend Policy 49.1 as follows:
“Integrate ʻāina[-] place-based values into Hawaiʻi Island’s identity.”
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6. IMPLEMENTATION
133. Page 215, 6.1 Implementation and Monitoring Introduction
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.200), and community planning section staff recommendations.
Amend the Introduction text as follows:
“The General Plan sets forth broad goals, objectives, and policies.
Implementation requires translating these broad statements to specific actions,
systematically evaluating progress, and effective community engagement.
Follow-up planning efforts will involve the interconnected components of the
County planning system, including the Community Development Plans (CDP),
Capital Improvements Program (CIP), and ongoing monitoring and evaluation.
The General Plan shall function as an operational implementation document, not
solely a policy framework. All policies, actions, and capital investments shall be
linked to measurable outcomes, timelines, responsible agencies, and funding
mechanisms. The County shall adopt a performance-based planning system that
integrates land use, infrastructure capacity, fiscal planning, and hazard mitigation
into all implementation decisions.
Additionally, implementation of the General Plan will require systemic
understanding, decisive leadership, and unprecedented collaboration. The
General Plan elevates key challenges to be addressed with strategic and
coordinated action, presenting a path for the future of Hawaiʻi Island.
Implementation will also require follow-up legislative actions such as ordinances
and budget decisions.
The purpose of the County planning system is to serve as a guide for the long-
range development, and economic, environmental, and socio-cultural well-being
of the County in keeping with the values and priorities [significant to the people]of
its communities. The intent of this framework includes:
1. Local Engagement
Foster grassroots participation and balancing of interests by providing
opportunities for active civic engagement, where [citizens]residents have the
means to collaborate with the County and are empowered to effect positive
change consistent with plans developed under this chapter. Community-based
mechanisms, including Community Development Plan Action Committees, can
help maintain an ongoing connection between the County and the
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communities it serves, supporting continued community involvement in
monitoring and advancing adopted plans.
2. Long-Term and Holistic Approach
Address a broad scope of issues and long-term trends that affect the land and
communities, including environmental and cultural-historic protections, natural
resources, built environments, infrastructure development, social issues, and
the economy.
3. Consistent Policies and Implementation
Ensure consistency among the General Plan and respective regional plans, as
well as consistency among the General Plan’s policies and implementation
measures such as regulations in the Hawaiʻi County Code, land acquisition
priorities, and capital improvements.
4. Interagency Collaboration
Facilitate collaboration among County agencies in fulfilling the objectives,
policies, and actions set forth in the General Plan’s developed under this
chapter. Facilitate collaboration with state and federal agencies through clarity,
consistency and prioritization of common goals and objectives.
5. Implementation System
Establish an implementation system that is based on county-wide, regional,
and agency levels of responsibility and accountability to carry out the plan(s).
The implementation system should include measurable performance
indicators tied to each objective, assigned departmental responsibility, defined
timelines and milestones, [such as the ]identification [and
prioritization ]of[ actions, timeframes, responsible agents and stakeholders,]
funding requirements, and public reporting requirements[funding sources, and
allocations].
Key Areas for Collaborative Focus
The General Plan outlines policy guidance for directing the County’s growth and
development. [While the Plan is comprehensive and can provide a holistic and
integrated approach, it is limited in terms of scope and enforceability]This
General Plan shall guide regulatory, fiscal, and infrastructure decisions and shall
be implemented through enforceable mechanisms, including ordinances, the
capital improvement budget, and administrative procedures. This General Plan is
grounded in the understanding that many of the County’s greatest challenges
cannot be solved with policy, regulation, or independent action. It greatly impacts
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the daily lives of Hawaiʻi Island residents by shaping development, infrastructure,
and community resource management. The General Plan guides decisions on
housing, transportation, and public services, ensuring that they align with the
island’s unique cultural, environmental, and economic needs.
Through strategic planning, the General Plan aims to enhance residents’ quality
of life by promoting sustainable growth, protecting natural and cultural resources,
and fostering a vibrant, resilient community.
Successful implementation requires robust collaboration among various
stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, private
and non-profit groups, and the general public. Key areas of focus include
fostering public-private partnerships, ensuring community engagement and input,
securing funding, and coordinating priorities. Regular and continuous monitoring
is essential to respond to changing conditions and emerging challenges. The
emphasis on a collaborative approach in the implementation of the General Plan
is intended to ensure shared responsibility and collective action as we work
toward achieving our vision. The Integrated Systems section provides the policy
direction for strengthening collaboration and coordination across the County.”
134. Page 216, 6.2 County Planning System
Rationale for change: Revise the language to clarify and provide a more specific
reference to the graphic.
Amend the text as follows:
“The planning system is designed to ensure that all its components fit together
and serve their intended purpose. This section further defines each of these
components and the relationships between them. [The diagram above]Figure 11
displays a feedback process in which the different aspects of the planning
system inform one another and the lines between them represent opportunities
for community participation throughout the process. Chapter 16 of the Hawaiʻi
County Code details the legal framework for the planning system, with an
explanation of these components, the legal requirements, and this framework.”
135. Page 217, 6.2.1 Community Development Plans (CDP)
Rationale for change: Based on community planning section staff
recommendations.
Amend the text as follows:
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“The Community Development Plans translate broad General Plan statements to
specific actions, as they apply to specific geographical areas. They serve to
provide a forum for community input to reflect the character of each community.
These plans create a vision for future growth, and direct physical development
and public improvements within a specific area. If there is a direct conflict
between the CDP and the General Plan, the General Plan shall be controlling.
The Planning Director or County Council may initiate a CDP.
The goal of planning is to maximize the health, safety, and economic well-being
of all people living in our communities, as well as the land itself. Community
planning is [the process where community members come together to take
intentional collective action and generate solutions to common problems to
improve social, economic, physical, and environmental well-being while
preserving valuable aspects of the culture of and vision for a particular
geographic area]a collaborative process through which community members,
planners, public agencies, and other stakeholders identify shared values and
priorities, develop and evaluate strategies, and guide actions to improve social,
economic, physical, environmental, and cultural well-being while respecting the
unique character and vision of each community.
Community Development Plan Framework
During the General Plan Comprehensive Review process, existing community
plans were used to guide the CDP framework. From the adoption of the Kona,
Puna, North and South Kohala CDPs in 2008, Kaʻū CDP in 2017, and Hāmākua
CDP in 2018, there has been much to learn and grow from as we look to the
future. The General Plan also benefits[ed] from the ongoing [years of
collective ]participation of [in ]CDP Action Committees, which provide a
community-based forum for supporting, monitoring, and providing feedback on
implementation of [efforts through regional committees that implement ]their
respective CDPs.”
136. Page 218, 6.2.1 Community Development Plans (CDP)
Rationale for change: Based on community planning section staff
recommendations.
Amend the text as follows:
“5. Programs and Community Actions
Community Development Plans shall be prioritized, adequately resourced, and
shall identify desired programs and the community’s role in planning and
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implementing the programs. CDP Action Committees can provide an ongoing
forum for community participation, coordination, and communication in support
of CDP programs and actions. They should focus on proactive, community-
based, collaborative actions. Community planning is a collective effort that
benefits from proactive leadership by the County, community members, and
other partners as appropriate, [and]coordinating actions that [enrich
the]advance community priorities. Examples of this include after-school youth
programs, neighborhood watch, environmental advocacy groups, and
collaborative small business events (such as farmers markets or co-ops).”
6. Social Capital and Community Network Mapping
[During the process of reviewing a ]Community Development Plans may
identify[, instances where] community needs, assets, organizations,
relationships, and resources that can contribute to addressing community
priorities[ are not met may be identified]. Mapping these community networks
can help identify existing strengths, gaps, and opportunities for collaboration
among community members, organizations, County agencies, and other
stakeholders. County-hosted CDP Action Committees can serve as a
mechanism for maintaining community connections, sharing local knowledge,
and supporting participation in CDP implementation. [Examples of this may
include a need for community gathering spaces such as parks or recreation
hubs. Community Development Plans may identify such needs and outline a
plan of action for community members and other stakeholders to coordinate
efforts, combine and collect resources, and connect public and private sector
agents to advocate for such enhancements to their community.]”
137. Page 219, 6.2.4 Public Agency Functional Plans and Programs
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.200).
Amend the text as follows:
“Functional Plans set forth the policies, statewide guidelines, and priorities within
a specific field of activity, when such activity or program is proposed,
administered, or funded by any agency of the State. Functional plans are
developed by the agency primarily responsible for a given functional area and
must identify priority issues and specific needs of the agency responsible for
implementation. They may, but are not required to, be adopted by ordinance or
resolution.
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The Functional Plan should contain objectives, policies, and implementing
actions consistent with the visions, goals, and objectives of the General Plan and
Community Development Planas to address the priority issues and needs
identified to help inform the Capital Improvements and Operating Program. Each
department and agency of the County that prepares a Functional Plan should
present the construction and operation of infrastructure, facilities, and programs.
Actions may include organizational or management initiatives, facility or physical
infrastructure development initiatives, initiatives for programs and services, or
legislative proposals.
Functional Plans should be required for all major infrastructure systems,
including but not limited to water, wastewater, transportation, and solid waste and
should include level of service standards, capital improvement needs, climate
and hazard resilience requirements, and equity and access considerations.”
138. Page 220, 6.3.1 Prioritization of Capital Improvements Projects
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.200).
Amend the last bullet point under “Achieving What We Appropriate” as follows:
“A system will be established to monitor the status of projects, including the
geographic distribution of capital investments.”
139. Page 223, 6.4.2 Monitoring and Evaluation Plan
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.200).
Amend the text as follows:
“Monitoring Mechanisms
Measurable indicators, or performance measures, will be used to monitor
progress toward the objectives. Examples of indicators that can be used to
monitor the progress of implementation have been provided in [the table]Tables
44-52[ below]. [However, it is important to note that indicators may vary over time
as progress is made and each department is responsible for reporting on the
indicators that are relevant]Indicators should be standardized, consistently
tracked, and publicly reported as a General Plan dashboard to ensure
accountability and comparability over time.
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Progress Reports
Mayor’s Annual Report
As part of the Mayor’s Annual Report, the County Departments will prepare an
implementation status report annually serving to monitor progress towards
achieving the goals and objectives identified within the General Plan. [To the
extent possible, the report should contain measurable indicators related to the
goals and objectives of the plans that make up the County Planning System.]
5-year Implementation Status Report
The [Planning Director will include a 5-year status report as part of the Mayor’s
Annual Report]County departments shall present a General Plan implementation
report to the County Council. This status report [shall]should include progress
toward established targets, unmet objectives, recommended amendments, or
corrective actions, and funding gaps. In addition, the Planning Director should
include the status of any urban development plans, functional plans, special area
plans, master plans, community development plans, and related priority
implementation actions.[ The director may also provide information regarding the
implementation of private development master plans in the 5-year
implementation status report.]
Comprehensive Review and Update Schedule
The Planning Director shall initiate a comprehensive review of the General Plan
and prepare a set of recommended amendments for independent review by the
Windward and Leeward Planning Commissions and then adoption by the County
Council. The comprehensive review shall be initiated [not more]no later than
[fifteen (15)]ten years after the effective date of [adoption of the previous
amendments resulting from a]Ordinance No. 26-46 and every ten years after the
close of the most recent comprehensive review[ and submitted to the Planning
Commission to start the adoption process not more than twenty (20) years after
the date of adoption of the previous amendments resulting from a comprehensive
review]. This allows for regular updates and adequate implementation time
between updates.”
140. Page 224, 6.4.3 Implementation Indicators
Rationale for change: Based on request from Councilmember Kimball (Comm
372.200).
Amend the text as follows:
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“The General Plan is a comprehensive framework designed to guide sustainable
development patterns, direct future opportunities, and determine public
investments. The Plan establishes a set of goals and objectives aimed at
preserving and protecting the island’s unique environment, enhancing the quality
of life for residents, and promoting a vibrant and resilient economy. To support
monitoring and evaluation efforts, the General Plan includes the following tables
(organized by section of the Plan), which present a range of example indictors
associated with each goal and its corresponding objectives.
Indicators are quantitative or qualitative measures used to assess progress
towards each objective. Indicators provide concrete evidence of change, help
track trends over time, identify areas needing improvement, and may be used to
guide policy decisions. From these indicators, more detailed metrics may be
developed to offer precise data points that can be regularly monitored and
reported. To ensure the goals and objectives of the General Plan are effectively
monitored and achieved, these indicators serve as a vital tool for assessing the
effectiveness of policies, programs, and initiatives outlined in the Plan. By
regularly tracking these measures, the County can make data-driven decisions,
adjust strategies as needed, and transparently report progress to the community.
All indicators should be measurable, time-bound, geographically distinct where
applicable, and linked to responsible agencies. The County should identify and
track indicators for disproportionately impacted or underserved communities,
including infrastructure access and hazard exposure.”
MAPS
Continued on next page.
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SOUTH KOHALA DISTRICT
Map A1, 1 Natural to Extensive Agricultural Location: Lālāmilo Farm Lots
Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Hustace (Comm 372.204): No
clear reason why this was changed to Natural. Irregular polygons that do
not align with TMKs or road boundaries. Possible mapping error. Map A1, 2 Low Density Urban to Recreation Location: Waimea Nature Park (Ulu Laʻau)
Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Hustace (Comm 372.204):
Existing recreational and park space. Identified as Waimea Nature Park or
Ulu Laʻau. Map A2, 5 Low-Density Urban to Conservation Location: Hāloa Stream
Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Hustace (Comm 372.204):
Existing stream gulch. Identified as Hāloa Stream. Unbuildable terrain and should remain untouched to help prevent flooding.
Map A2, 6 Natural to Low-Density Urban
Location: Hohola Drive Subdivision
Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Hustace (Comm 372.204):
Natural does not correspond with current use. Neighboring parcels in subdivision are designated as Low-Density Urban.
Map A2, 7 Natural to Extensive Agriculture
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Location: Nani Waimea Street
Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Hustace (Comm 372.204):
Unclear why this change was made. Should be reflective of surrounding
parcels. Residential properties and grazing lands. Map A3, 3
Urban Expansion to Heavy Industrial Location: Waikōloa Industrial
Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Hustace (Comm 372.204):
Identified parcel will be used for heavy industrial purposes. Neighboring
parcel to the west (368001066) is proposed to changed and align with
industrial use on the property.
Map A3, 4 Low and Medium-Density Urban to Recreation Location: Kamakoa Nui Park
Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Hustace (Comm 372.204):
Existing recreational and park space. Identified as Kamakoa Nui Park.
NORTH KOHALA DISTRICT
Map A4, 17
Extensive Agriculture to Rural Location:
Rationale: To allow for extension of Rural in adjoining Extensive
Agriculture area for extension or rural development.
PUNA DISTRICT
Map C1, 21 Medium-Density Urban to Urban Expansion
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Location: Keaau
Rationale: To better align with existing MCX Zoning and proposed
medical facility
NORTH KONA DISTRICT
Map F1, 8 Urban Expansion to Medium-Density Urban Location: Keauhou-Holualoa Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Inaba: Revert back to 2005 LUPAG designation Map F1, 9 Urban Expansion to Medium-Density Urban Location: Keauhou-Holualoa Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Inaba:
Revert back to 2005 LUPAG designation Map F1, 10 Urban Expansion to Medium-Density Urban
Location: Holualoa-Kailua Kona
Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Inaba:
Change it to Medium/Low Density Urban
Map F1, 11 Urban Expansion to Medium-Density Urban Location: Holualoa-Kailua Kona
Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Inaba:
Revert back to 2005 LUPAG designation
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Map F1, 12 Urban Expansion to Medium-Density Urban
Location: Holualoa-Kailua Kona Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Inaba: Revert back to 2005 LUPAG designation
Map F1, 13 Urban Expansion to Medium-Density Urban
Location: Holualoa-Kailua Kona Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Inaba:
Revert back to 2005 LUPAG designation
Map F1, 14 Urban Expansion to Medium-Density Urban Location: Holualoa-Kailua Kona
Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Inaba:
Revert back to 2005 LUPAG designation Map F1, 19
Urban Expansion to Resort Location: Puaa
Rationale: Change to allow for a Short-Term Vacation Rental (STVR) as
an option in existing condominiums Map F2, 15
High-Density Urban to Medium-Density Urban Location: North Kona-Kaloko Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Inaba:
Keep it Medium or Low Density Urban
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Map F2, 18 Recreation to Resort
Location: Kona Bay Estates Rationale: Clean up to confirm that the resort designation covers all of the residential lots in Kona Bay Estates.
Map F3, 20 Low-Density and Medium Density Urban to Resort
Location: Keauhou Rationale: Change to cover the existing shopping center and allow for a
Short-Term Vacation Rental (STVR) as an option in existing condominiums
Map F4, 16 High-Density Urban to Medium-Density Urban
Location: North Kona-Kaloko Rationale: Requested by Councilmember Inaba:
Change to Medium Density Urban to Match the RS- 7.5 Zoning Density
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