Hawaiʻi Governor Josh Green said the U.S. Army sent a letter about a new plan for military land leases in the state. The Army wants to keep training lands for national security and will outline a plan by the end of the year instead of 60 days. There is talk of a possible land exchange, but no details or official talks have happened. Any proposals need approval from state and federal authorities. The Department of Land and Natural Resources and its Board manage state lands, with the Office of the Governor helping.
Expressing the urgency of the situation, Governor Green relayed that "The original lease for the Pōhakuloa Training Area was signed in 1964 for just $1 and it expires in 2029. Federal leaders have stated there are national security considerations at stake and they’ve made clear they could act through eminent domain, which would take the land without giving Hawaiʻi anything in return," according to the Office of the Governor. But the Governor is taking a path of collaboration, suggesting fair trade terms such as the return of lands, cleanups of contaminated areas, protection of water sources, and commitments from the military for housing and renewable energy investments.
“That’s why I’m insisting on a fair deal, for example, the return of lands like Mākua Valley, cleanup of contaminated training areas, protection of our water and a commitment to build thousands of new homes to relieve pressure on our housing market,” Governor Green said. He is also seeking to transfer lands to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to help more Native Hawaiian families become homeowners. The Office of the Governor will provide updates to the public, including a new website at the end of the month with Army communications, lease information, and progress reports. Further updates and the state’s formal response will follow in the coming weeks.
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