For the last couple of days, The Conversation has been taking a closer look at a proposed development out in West Oʻahu. Kamehameha Schools owns land in Waipahu near the bus facility and rail station and has been talking about building a mixed-use community with two 20-story towers.
Height is a big issue because the community decided under the transit-oriented development, and the zoning only allows for a six-story structure to keep the integrity of the historic plantation town. The Conversation talked to a couple of area lawmakers about the dilemma, Rep. Henry Aquino and Honolulu Councilmember Brandon Elefante.
Elefante won't be on the council when the project comes up for a city vote. His term is up and he plans to run for the Senate seat currently held by Sen. Bennette Misalucha. Aquino is also running for a Senate seat in that area as Sen. Clarence Nishihara retires. This interview aired on The Conversation on May 6, 2022. The Conversation airs weekdays at 11 a.m. on HPR-1.
