Maui Senator Lauds $200 Million OHA Settlement Land Deal

One the eve of the bill signing, Senator J. Kalani English of Maui said he was looking forward to the ceremony. File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

The $200 million settlement land deal between the state and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs will be signed into law today.

Governor Neil Abercrombie will enact Senate Bill 2783, conveying lands in Kaka’ako Makai to OHA to settle claims of past due revenue dating back to 1978.

The bill signing ceremony is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. at Washington Place.

One the eve of the bill signing, Senator J. Kalani English of Maui said he was looking forward to the ceremony.  He said although it “symbolizes a small amount of justice for the Hawaiian community, it is still a monumental day to be celebrated.”

Under Senate Bill 2783 the State will convey contiguous and adjacent parcels in Kaka‘ako Makai near the Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park, including Fisherman’s Warf.

After it is signed, the Act takes effect on July 1, 2012.

Under the Act, all disputes and controversies relating to OHA’s portion of income and proceeds from the public trust lands will be discharged as well as bar all claims, suits, and actions for the period between November 7, 1978 through June 30, 2012.

“Senate Bill 2783 empowered Hawaiians to get their voices heard and the signing of the measure into law is a small step for Hawaiian rights,” said English.