Yesterday, Governor Josh Green and Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll made public their collaborative effort to forge a Statement of Principles concerning land use and matters of mutual interest in Hawai'i. Emphasizing the non-binding nature of this statement, they seek to propel ongoing conversations aimed at land protection and national security, as reported by the Office of the Governor.
"This is not a contract. It is a framework," Governor Green clarified, urging that the statement act as a precursor to substantive discourse, as noted by the Office of the Governor. Dedicated to expressing local voices, its four pillars lay the groundwork for conversations on land reclamation by the state, the cleansing of unexploded ordnance, future federal aid for housing and infrastructure, and the recognition of Hawai'i's pivotal role in national defense and its cultural significance.
The relationship between Hawai'i and the military stretches back across decades, often marked by contentious discussions concerning the implications of militarization on the islands' ecosystems and culture. While both entities acknowledge these long-standing issues, such as land management and residue from military exercises, this newly announced statement articulates a mutual ambition for resolution.
Anticipating further progress, both Governor Green and Secretary Driscoll are aiming for an official Memorandum of Understanding by the year's end which, announced Governor Green, "opens the door for meaningful discussions," as per a report by the Office of the Governor. The goal is to set clear guidelines that address key concerns in Hawai‘i, including returning land for community use, clearing historic military remnants, and securing federal support for sustainable development across the islands.
As part of the participatory process, Governor Green encouraged Hawai'i residents to lend their voice via Engage.Hawaiʻi.gov. This digital platform serves as a conduit for public engagement where Hawaiians can register their constructive inputs on leveraging federal support to best usher Hawai'i into the future.
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