Hawaii’s legislation to approve $39 million land purchase faces scrutiny
- The Agribusiness Development Corp is targeting over 1,000 acres of Kaua’i plantation land for potential acquisition.
- Legislative approval for $39 million is crucial for the deal to proceed amidst mixed reactions from the local community.
- If the deal goes through, it would mark the ADC's largest land purchase in over a decade, securing vital agricultural land.
In Hawaii, legislators are currently deliberating a crucial proposal that involves purchasing more than 1,000 acres of former plantation land located in Kaua’i. This land is primarily owned by Steve Case, the co-founder of America Online, and the deal's fate hinges on a $39 million allocation for the Agribusiness Development Corp's draft of the state budget bill. The purchase aims to aid in meeting local food production goals while safeguarding the agricultural integrity of the land, as resident concerns loom about the potential for development over agricultural use. This acquisition, which is the largest by the ADC in over a decade, will impact around 20 tenants currently farming the land and could help satisfy increased demand for agricultural space since the ADC opened its farm license applications 18 months ago. There has been a mix of optimism and skepticism among residents, with some pointing out the high cost and historical financial challenges posed by the property. Attention has also been drawn to the essential water infrastructure present on the property, which is critical for farming in the region. The Senate's budget draft also included additional funds exceeding $70 million for other ADC capital improvement projects, highlighting the agency's proactive approach to enhancing local agricultural capacity. As deliberations continue, the outcome will ultimately determine the future use of this prime agricultural land and its broader implications for Hawaii's agricultural policy and community livelihood.