What's Being Discussed

The Hawaiian Homes Commission is holding a two-day meeting and workshop in Hilo on October 19–20, 2026, open in person at the Grand Naniloa Hotel and via Zoom. Key topics include:

• Awarding new homestead leases on O'ahu, Kaua'i, Hawai'i Island, Moloka'i, and Maui
• Approving mortgages, loan refinances, and lease transfers for existing homestead lessees
• Certifying new qualified applicants for the homestead waitlist (September 2026)
• Designating heirs and successors for homestead leases, including a specific case in Wai'anae, O'ahu
• Approving resolutions to pursue federal broadband funding for Native Hawaiian communities
• Reviewing 2027 legislative proposals from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL)
• An environmental review finding for a new preschool facility at Kanuikapono Public Charter School in Anahola, Kaua'i
• Updates on development plans and water projects for East Hawai'i
• A conceptual plan and market study for the Pana'ewa Business Park in Hilo
• On Day 2, community members from across the state will address the Commission directly on homestead concerns

Decisions Expected

• Votes on new homestead lease awards in multiple communities statewide
• Approval of individual lease amendments, successor designations, and mortgage consents
• Formal adoption of resolutions to apply for federal broadband grants
• Approval of DHHL's proposed bills for the 2027 state legislative session

Who Should Pay Attention

• Native Hawaiian homestead applicants and current lessees statewide
• Residents of Waimānalo, Kapa'a, Hilo, Moloka'i, Maui, and Wai'anae where new leases are being awarded
• Community members interested in broadband access, housing, or agricultural land on Hawaiian Home Lands
• Anyone with concerns about East Hawai'i development or water policy