Creating a Pathway to Affordable Living in Hawai'i County

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Affordable housing is one of the most critical issues facing our community, which is why our administration is so proud of the significant strides we've made in addressing this challenge. Here’s how we’re working to ensure every family in Hawai'i County has access to safe and affordable housing.

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Expanding the Affordable Housing Pipeline

 

Under the leadership of the Office of Housing and Community Development (OHCD), led by Susan Kunz and Harry Yada, we've dramatically increased the affordable housing pipeline from 1,200 homes to over 8,100 homes. This expansion is a testament to our commitment to addressing the housing crisis and ensuring that more local families have access to affordable living options. Over 300 units have been completed, with an additional 550 units slated for completion this year, specifically for local, working-class families.

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Projects Prioritizing Local Families

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We prioritize projects that benefit our local working-class families. The Kaloko Heights project in Kailua-Kona, for example, will offer rental units priced at 30-60% of the average median income for a family of four, approximately $500-$1,000 per month. Future developments like Kamakoa Nui in Waikōloa will add over 600 affordable homes, significantly reducing commute times and enhancing the quality of life for our residents.

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Innovative Housing Solutions

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Our administration collaborates closely with key community leaders to develop innovative housing solutions. We are working with Council Chair Heather Kimball, Planning Director Zendo Kern, and Deputy Jeff Darrow to draft legislation that will allow for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on existing parcels of land. This initiative aims to alleviate the housing shortage by increasing the availability of affordable housing units.

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Regulating Short-Term Rentals

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To further increase housing availability for local families, we've partnered with Chair Kimball on legislation targeting Transient Accommodation Rentals. This legislation aims to close loopholes, establish a registration system for short-term rental properties, and manage the market, particularly on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. By prioritizing community needs over profit, we are working to ensure that housing remains available and affordable for our residents.

 

Planned Developments for 2024

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In 2024, we have several major affordable housing developments scheduled to commence:

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• Hoʻomalu at Waikōloa: 229 units

• Hualālai Court: 104 units

• Kaiāulu ʻO Kapʻiolani: 64 units

• Kamakoa Nui Loop Road: Opening up the development of 650+ units at Kamakoa Nui at Waikōloa Village

• Kūkuiola Emergency Shelter and Assessment Center Phase II: 48 units at Kailua-Kona

• Nā Hale Mākoa: 140 units at Kamakoa Nui at Waikōloa Village

• Ōʻōkala: 30 single-family home lots

• Villages at Laʻi ʻŌpua Phase 3: 32 single-family homes at Kailua-Kona

• 34 Rainbow Drive renovations: Facility improvement to house services

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Additionally, projects slated for completion in 2024 include:

• Ainaloa Self-Help Homes Phase 2: 10 single-family homes at Pāhoa

• Hale Nā Koa ‛O Hanakahi: 91 units at Hilo

• Kaloko Heights: 100 units at Kailua-Kona

• Kūkuiola Emergency Shelter and Assessment Center Phase 1: 16 units at Kailua-Kona

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A total of 1,544 affordable housing units will be worked on or completed in 2024, ensuring continued progress in addressing the housing needs of our community.

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Looking Ahead

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The journey to providing affordable housing for all is ongoing. Our administration is dedicated to continuing this vital work, building on our successes, and driving forward with even greater determination. Together, we can create a Hawai'i County where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in a home they can afford.