Hawai‘i County Council takes big step toward adding more housing

from Grassroot Institute, Sept 21, 2024

If signed by Mayor Roth, the bill would allow three ADUs per lot in most residential zones and align with the state's new Act 39

The Hawaii County Council took a major step toward increasing Hawaii Island's housing supply on Tuesday by approving 5-3 a bill supported by the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii that would allow up to three accessory dwelling units per lot in most residential and some agricultural zones.

Introduced by Council Chair Heather Kimball and member Ashley Kierkiewicz, Bill 123 also would remove duplicative permits for building ADUs and change rules concerning minimum lot sizes, notices and home sizes for ADUs.

If signed by Mayor Mitch Roth, the bill would put the county into compliance with the state's Act 39, formerly SB3202, which requires the counties to allow at least two accessory dwellings in at least some of its residential zones.

“These changes could unlock big gains for isle homeowners, who would have more freedom to build smaller homes in their backyards or as additions to their existing homes,” Grassroot policy researcher Jonathan Helton wrote earlier this month in the Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

“These cottages could be rented to elderly family members, children starting out on their own, or local families simply looking for places to live,” Helton said.

During the Council hearing, Kimball said the intention of this bill is "to increase density in our urban core areas, making sure that people are close to work, close to educational opportunities, close to income opportunities, close to infrastructure."

She said if enacted, the bill also would reduce urban sprawl, protect agricultural lands, reduce vehicle miles traveled, and ensure housing "for all of the different members of our community.”

To read Grassroot’s latest testimony on the bill, click here.

In related news

Below are links to Grassroot testimonies submitted recently for consideration by the Hawaii and Maui county councils.

Hawai‘i County

>> Bill 104 — "Incentivize long-term rentals but not at expense of other property classes"

>> Bill 184 — "Allow vending alongside county streets, lessen fine for violations"

Maui County

>> BIll 115 — "Extend deadline for owners renting to displaced residents"