Haleiwa Housing Project Sparks Community Opposition

Why this matters: The conflict highlights the tension between the need for affordable housing and the desire to preserve local character and manage resources in a popular tourist destination. It also brings to light the challenges of balancing development with community concerns and infrastructure capacity.

The Haleiwa Backyards project is spearheaded by Basin Project Inc., owned by D.G. “Andy” Anderson. The development proposes 156 low-rise, two-bedroom rental units, accompanied by 30,000 square feet of office and retail space. While the developer aims to provide some affordable units, the majority are slated as market-rate rentals.

Bill 37, currently under review by the Honolulu City Council, seeks to amend the state Land Use District Boundary Map by reclassifying 7.29 acres from agricultural to urban. This rezoning is crucial for the project to proceed. The bill's supporters argue that the development will address the housing crisis by providing reasonably priced housing near job opportunities and amenities.

However, North Shore residents strongly oppose the project, citing concerns about increased traffic, potential natural disaster risks, and the impact on the area's unique character. Critics like Zaz Dahlin fear that the development could turn Haleiwa into a “Waikiki 2.0.”

Conversely, the Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters supports the bill, arguing that it will provide much-needed housing for workers who struggle to afford living near their jobs on the North Shore. They emphasize that the site is not active farmland and is located within the Community Growth Boundary.

The City Council’s Zoning Committee Chair, Esther Kia ‘aina, has suggested exploring alternatives such as purchasing the land for agricultural use or community gardens. Council Vice Chair Andria Tupola expressed reservations about linking the project to a state Land Use District Boundary Map amendment, particularly if it does not prioritize affordable housing for local residents.

The city Department of Planning and Permitting has expressed provisional support for the legislation, noting that the agency typically processes state land use district boundary amendments for areas 15 acres or less.

It is a proposed housing and commercial development in Haleiwa, Hawaii, featuring approximately 150 rental units and 30,000 square feet of commercial space.

Residents are concerned about the loss of agricultural land, increased traffic congestion, and the high cost of living.

Bill 37 is a measure before the Honolulu City Council that would rezone the project site from agricultural to urban, allowing the development to proceed.

The developer proposes a limited number of affordable units targeted for those who earn 80% to 120% of the area median income.

Do you think this development will ultimately benefit or harm the Haleiwa community? Let us know in the comments below!

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