Senate Candidate Lethem Slams Kaka’ako Parking Scam

News Release from Lethem Campaign September 14, 2014

Chris Lethem, candidate for state senate representing Kaka’ako and neighboring areas, today called on HCDA to stop two brothers from strong‐arming Kaka’ako businesses and potentially residents into paying to park on streets that should be in state hands. The brothers claim they own the streets, but Kaka’ako businesses are challenging the claim.

“This is an outrage,” Lethem said, in a letter sent to HCDA. Lethem added, “It is further disrupting a neighborhood already plagued by parking shortages and construction already constricting parking for area businesses and residents.” City and state governments share jurisdiction over Kaka’ako streets, the city responsible for infrastructure (including streets), and the state controlling its land and development. Lethem called on street owner and controller HCDA to “Immediately stop an activity that is causing such disruption and is very probably illegal, and to call to account those responsible.”

Lethem called for HCDA to place the street parking issue on its next agenda, allowing affected businesses and residents to air their views, and allowing officials to explain what will rectify the parking scam.

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