WHEREAS, since ancient times, the use and maintenance of Hawaii's freshwater resources has been strictly governed to ensure the sustainability of this finite resource; and

WHEREAS, in order to protect and preserve Hawaii's water resources now and in the future, we must continue to respect and properly manage our freshwater resources; and

WHEREAS, the state's water supply is of utmost concern and requires the joint effort of individuals, businesses, and communities to ensure there is enough for present and future generations; and

WHEREAS, one method of conserving water is to require all new residential and commercial developments be equipped with water conservation devices; and

WHEREAS, examples of water conservation devices include low-flow plumbing, low-flush toilets, faucet aerators, and any other economically reasonable machinery, equipment, or devices used to promote water conservation; and

WHEREAS, by embracing these policies, the counties will cultivate conservation awareness, enhance statewide water conservation efforts, and help to ensure the most efficient use of Hawaii's precious freshwater resources; now, therefore,

BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the Twenty-third Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2006, the House of Representatives concurring, that the counties are requested to require that water conservation devices be implemented in all new residential and commercial developments in their building code; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Concurrent Resolution be transmitted to the Mayor of the County of Hawaii, Mayor of the County of Maui, Mayor of the County of Kauai, and Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu.

Report Title:

Water Conservation; Devices