In the most recent newsletter from the Ke Ke‘ena O Ke Kia‘a-ina or the Office of the Governor, Governor Josh Green, M.D., outlined a series of impactful decisions, projects, and initiatives aimed at benefiting the residents of Hawaiʻi. From the Emergency Proclamation (EP) on Housing to historic preservation efforts, the governor’s office is tirelessly working to create a prosperous future for the Aloha State.
Tackling the Housing Crisis
Addressing the affordable housing crisis in Hawaiʻi is a top priority for Governor Green. On July 17, the governor signed the EP on Housing to accelerate relief from the statewide housing crisis. This emergency action aims to enhance the safe construction of public, low-income, affordable, workforce, and market-rate for-sale and rental units across the state, all while respecting Hawaiʻi’s unique environmental and cultural heritage.
The EP on Housing focuses on three main priorities:
- Prioritizing, protecting, and providing housing for the local people.
- Investing in critical infrastructure and the development of new housing units.
- Streamlining the process through collaboration and coordination with federal, state, county, and private sector stakeholders.
Streamlining the Housing Approval Process
Under the guidance of Nani Medeiros, the Chief Housing Officer for the Governor’s office, the EP aims to fast-track relief from the housing crisis by tackling sticking points in the approval process for affordable housing. Despite her impressive tenure in public service, Medeiros stresses the importance of safeguarding the safety, environment, and archaeological concerns as the process is streamlined.
Signing of Key Bills
In addition to the housing crisis, the Governor’s office has been proactive in enacting 263 bills into law that covers a spectrum of critical issues ranging from reproductive rights, homelessness, agriculture, beach and shoreline conservation, child welfare, clean energy and climate, education, firearms safety, health care access, tax credits, and the state budget.
Recognizing Innovative Public-Private Collaborations
An innovative public-private collaboration between the state and the Kobayashi Group, which developed a mixed-use space including an affordable rental tower and a Juvenile Services Center, won the National Association of Industrial Office Properties (NAIOP) 2023 Kukulu Hale award for Public/Government Projects. This project showcases how partnerships between public entities and private sector stakeholders can work towards solving pressing issues such as affordable housing and vulnerable youth support.
Upholding Women’s Rights
Following the controversial overturning of Roe v. Wade by the U.S. Supreme Court, Governor Green’s administration has emphasized its dedication to ensuring access to all forms of safe, legal health care, including the right to abortion. The state has even secured a year’s supply of mifepristone, a drug used for medical termination of pregnancy, to ensure uninterrupted access to this medication.
Returning Historical Artifacts
After 130 years, Queen Lili‘uokalani’s Royal Standard has finally returned home. Thanks to two private benefactors, this piece of Hawaiian history has been rescued from the auction block and returned to its rightful place.
The August 2023 newsletter from Governor Green’s office paints a picture of a Hawaiʻi on the path towards a better future. By addressing critical issues, enacting pivotal legislation, and fostering innovative collaborations, Hawaiʻi’s leadership is not only protecting the island’s unique cultural and environmental heritage but also ensuring that its residents have a prosperous future.
Scott Sweeney is the creator of Virtual Hawaii 360. Scott is a professional marketer and a lifelong Hawaii enthusiast. Scott splits time between Oahu and Dayton, Ohio. In addition to his marketing endevours, he is also a published Ukulele musician.