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SCR 3

AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF A PERPETUAL, NON-EXCLUSIVE EASEMENT TO THE CITY AND COUNTY OF HONOLULU COVERING A PORTION OF STATE SUBMERGED LANDS AT MAUNALUA, HONOLULU, OAHU, FOR THE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT OUTFALL AND DRAINAGE SYSTEM, AND FOR USE, REPAIR, AND MAINTENANCE OF THE IMPROVEMENTS CONSTRUCTED THEREON.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

Hawaii authorizes Honolulu to obtain a perpetual easement on state submerged lands for stormwater drainage infrastructure at Maunalua, allowing permanent construction and maintenance of outfall systems.

Received from House (Hse. Com. No. 761).
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Bill Summary · SCR 3

Legislative bill overview

SCR 3 authorizes the City and County of Honolulu to obtain a perpetual easement on state-owned submerged lands at Maunalua to construct and maintain a stormwater drainage and outfall system. The easement is non-exclusive, meaning other uses of the land remain possible, and grants perpetual rights for building, repairing, and maintaining the infrastructure.

Why is this important

Stormwater management is critical for coastal communities to prevent flooding and protect water quality, particularly as climate change increases extreme rainfall events. This easement enables Honolulu to address drainage infrastructure needs in a populated area while using public lands, avoiding costly private land acquisition.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental impact on marine ecosystems: Submerged lands at Maunalua support coral reefs and marine habitats; the drainage outfall and construction could affect water quality and marine life
  • Perpetual duration: A "perpetual" easement is essentially permanent with no sunset provision, limiting future uses or modifications of state lands indefinitely
  • Public access considerations: Non-exclusive doesn't guarantee public access; the easement could restrict traditional Hawaiian subsistence or recreational uses of these waters

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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