The proposal for a new housing and commercial development in Haleiwa is facing significant opposition from local residents who are concerned about the impact it could have on agricultural land, traffic congestion, and the affordability of living in the area. Despite these concerns, a measure related to the development, known as Bill 37, recently passed the Honolulu City Council’s Zoning and Planning Committee.
The development plan, proposed by Haleiwa Backyards LLC, is poised to be built on a 7.5-acre vacant parcel situated between Kamehameha Highway and Joseph P. Leong Highway. It outlines the construction of up to 156 low-rise, two-bedroom rental units, alongside 30,000 square feet designated for office and retail space, complete with parking facilities.
The developer has indicated that eight of these two-bedroom rental units will be offered as affordable housing, aimed at individuals earning up to 80% of the area median income (AMI). This translates to an income of approximately $85,150 for a single person in 2025. Monthly rents for these affordable units would be set at $2,500, while the remaining market-rate units are expected to have a monthly rent of $2,800. The project also plans to include at least 31 units deemed affordable for those earning up to 120% of AMI.
As it stands, the land is currently classified as agricultural, and Bill 37 seeks to amend its designation to urban to facilitate the development. The project is positioned within a Community Growth Boundary, which is intended to manage development while protecting essential resources.
At the recent meeting, a consultant for the developer emphasized that the site is suitable for development due to its location, which is considered safe from significant natural hazards such as tsunamis and flooding. The consultant also shared that the project would undergo further refinement based on feedback from the community and regulatory bodies.
However, many residents, donning shirts with the slogan “Keep the Country Country,” demonstrated against Bill 37, voicing concerns that the development could lead to a drastic alteration of Haleiwa’s character. Critics worry that increasing population density could create challenges during natural disasters, such as evacuations.
Despite the opposition, some labor organizations support the development, arguing it would provide much-needed housing for local workers. They assert that the current lack of affordable housing forces many employees to commute long distances, straining their families and livelihoods.
Further discussions highlighted potential alternatives for the land’s use, such as preserving it for agricultural purposes. There was a call for community involvement in purchasing the land to preserve its agricultural potential, although it was noted that the property had previously been part of Dole’s inventory and was not initially recognized by the community as being for sale.
The city Council is expected to review the bill in more detail at the next full meeting set for August 6, with ongoing discussions about addressing the needs of local residents while considering the pressing housing crisis in the region.
This developmental project underscores the continuous balancing act necessary between urban growth and preserving the unique charm and resources of local communities. Through constructive dialogue and informed decision-making, there may be opportunities to find solutions that accommodate the needs of both residents and potential new development in Haleiwa.