STAND. COM. REP. NO.  375-14

Honolulu, Hawaii

                , 2014

RE:   H.B. No. 1919

      H.D. 1

Honorable Joseph M. Souki

Speaker, House of Representatives

Twenty-Seventh State Legislature

Regular Session of 2014

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Water & Land, to which was referred H.B. No. 1919, H.D. 1, entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO COMMUNITY-BASED EDUCATIONAL RETREATS,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to authorize state and county planning and permitting agencies to issue various development, occupancy, and use permits for educational retreat facilities that promote education on ecology, sustainable living, and wellness; provided that the proposed retreat facilities:

     (1)  Will not have a detrimental impact on the environment;

     (2)  Will not violate construction and zoning requirements that protect public health and safety;

     (3)  Will comply with applicable rules; and

     (4)  Will be beneficial to the surrounding community through demonstration and development of sustainable living principles and practices.

Several individuals submitted testimony in support of this measure.  The Department of Planning and Permitting of the City and County of Honolulu submitted testimony in opposition.  The Office of Planning and Department of Agriculture submitted testimony in opposition.

Your Committee notes the concerns expressed by some testifiers about the impact that this measure may have on the availability of agriculturally zoned land for purposes other than agricultural production.  However, your Committee finds that the purpose of the proposed educational retreats, to teach and demonstrate sustainable living and ecology principles, is compatible with the development of appreciation for and skills in agriculture and related practices.  Your Committee finds that the State’s growing agricultural sector will benefit from increased community education about the practices and principles of sustainability and ecology.

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Water & Land that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 1919, H.D. 1, and recommends that it be referred to the Committee on Finance.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Water & Land,

____________________________

CINDY EVANS, Chair