Public Land Development Corporation Abolished

The House Committees on Water & Land and Finance unanimously adopted HB1133, which would repeal the Public Land Development Corporation. Photo courtesy state House of Representatives.

By Wendy Osher

The controversial Public Land Development Corporation was officially abolished on Monday after Governor Neil Abercrombie signed legislation to repeal the agency.

Upon signing House Bill 1133 into law, Gov. Abercrombie released the following statement:

“As with any new law, public understanding and support are essential. In the case of the PLDC, best intentions and the potential for public good could not be reconciled with public concerns.”

The bill effectively repeals chapter 171C, HRS, relating to the PLDC.

The PLDC was initially established by the 2011 Legislature to develop state lands through public-private partnerships, and create a way to generate revenues for the state Department of Land and Natural Resources.

The establishment of the agency, however, sparked public concern from opponents over what they called “broad exemptions” from land use laws, county zoning laws, and construction standards.

Maui resident Mahina Martin, a vocal opponent of the agency, and founder of the group PLDC Watch, responded to the news saying, “It’s a big moment for the neighbor islands especially since 80% of the public lands at risk by the PLDC process are on the neighbor islands.  All I can say is amen.”