Advocacy

Government Affairs

The WHAR Government Affairs Committee is responsible for monitoring and tracking legislation and government related issues on the municipal, state and federal levels which have a potential affect on the real estate business and private property rights.


Within these pages you will find information to help inform you of relevant issues, scheduled meetings, contact info and published commentary. You'll also find:

  • Current County Council Members and Contact Info
  • Upcoming County, Community, and Committee Meetings
  • Proposed Legislation that may affect the real estate business or real property rights at the state and local levels.


More information about the committee itself can be found here: https//www.westhawaiirealtors.com/government-affiars-committee

If you'd like more information or to join the government affairs committee, please email us at admin@westhawaiirealtors.com.



General Information Links:


If you'd like to join the GAC Committee, please email the WHAR Office at  admin@westhawaiirealtors.com.

WHAR GAC Position Statements


REAL Property rights

Every individual has the right to own real property and enjoy the benefits of homeownership without undue interference from government entities, organizations, or individuals. WHAR supports the right of property owners to utilize their property to the highest and best use within the limits of all local laws and regulations and while respecting the same rights of all property owners to quiet enjoyment of their property.


zoning 

WHAR is committed to fostering sustainable development and emphasizes the responsible utilization of land resources. This entails striking a balance between density and infrastructure while addressing the needs of the community and adhering to the general plan. WHAR advocates for urban planning that is both equitable and inclusive, aiming to safeguard valuable agricultural land while facilitating accessible and efficient housing solutions.The organization supports increased density in areas where infrastructure and services can accommodate it, in accordance with the general plan. This includes advocating for multifamily development and conversion within retail and commercial zones, promoting higher-density housing options within areas designated for single-family homes, reducing minimum lot size requirements, streamlining the permitting process and repurposing vacant or underutilized county land for the development of affordable housing.


housing

WHAR promotes housing opportunities across all density levels, striving for socio-economic diversity in both ownership and availability. WHAR is dedicated to promoting fair housing practices and housing affordability across all income levels and also supports equitable treatment of both owners and tenants through a uniform and fair Landlord/Tenant code. Attainable housing for all is essential for fostering balanced and robust growth within our state community.


land use and ENVIRONMENT 

WHAR values the unique natural environment of Hawaii, which plays a vital role in defining quality of life. WHAR recognizes that land conversion and development practices have a significant impact on the quality of the air and water as well as the speed of erosion. Mitigating these effects can support more livable communities which encourage a healthy quality of life. WHAR supports the development of urban land which balances the economic and recreational opportunities for our communities and specifically advocates for environmental sustainability in land use planning.


water

WHAR supports the design, implementation, and management of equitable, efficient, and environmentally sustainable water resource and wastewater management including the identification and development of new water well sites, the upgrade and maintenance of all island wastewater treatment infrastructure, the development and conservation of stormwater parks, and the development and implementation of an island-wide wastewater management plan.