by: Pohai Ryan
Regarding Kanekoa Crabbe’s commentary on Kakaako Makai — or specifically, Hakuone by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) (“OHA should realize the site is not a pono place to build housing,” Star-Advertiser, Island Voices, May 15): I’m disappointed in the Star-Advertiser for printing false information.
OHA’s decision to accept Kakaako Makai was not impulsive, but an example of a bad-faith settlement. Exemptions have been made for every building built after 2006 just across the street for a few developers that dominate the design of the area.
Unlike Alexander & Baldwin’s plans, OHA’s proposal does not include building on the shoreline, nor does it propose a monstrosity of a maritime center, aquarium and simulated surf center that Friends of Kewalos feel is appropriate.OHA will determine the future of this aina, not because wealthy condo owners don’t want a blocked ocean view, or because certain legislators want to dishonorably take it back, or some surf- goers don’t want to share the ocean after OHA opens six additional access points. OHA is the landowner and it will determine Kakaako Makai’s future.
Pohai Ryan
Kailua
CRAIG T. KOJIMA / CKOJIMA@ STARADVERTISER.COM