Groups file suit over Stryker land deal
Associated Press
Native Hawaiian groups went to court yesterday to try to block the Army's acquisition of 1,400 acres of pineapple fields and other agriculture land near Schofield Barracks for its new Stryker brigade.
Advertiser library photo
The Army last week announced plans to buy the land for $15.9 million from Campbell Estate. The land would be purchased through eminent domain.
The Army showcased the strength of a Stryker vehicle equipped with slat armor for VIPs during an unveiling last summer at Ford Island.
Court action by Hawaiian groups had been expected.
Three Hawaiian cultural groups — the 'Ilio'ulaokalani Coalition, Na 'Imi Pono and Kipuka — also sued the Defense Department last month to try and prevent the Army from basing its new brigade in Hawai'i until a more comprehensive environmental assessment is completed and alternative sites are considered.
They contend the Army failed to consider any location other than Hawai'i before deciding to move forward with plans to renovate and expand existing island facilities to transform the 25th Infantry Division's 2nd Brigade at Schofield Barracks to a more mobile, fast-moving Stryker unit. The new brigade would bring 291 Stryker vehicles and about 800 additional soldiers to Hawai'i.
Earthjustice, which sued on behalf of the Hawaiian groups, said the move to acquire the Campbell Estate land sends the wrong message.
"How can the Army genuinely consider alternate locations when it's committing millions of dollars to transformation in Hawai'i," Earthjustice attorney David Henkin said in a news release.
Army officials have said input from preservation groups was used and $10 million spent over two years in compiling its 2,000-page environmental impact statement on the Stryker brigade. An additional $40 million is earmarked for future preservation efforts.
Army officials have said they plan to work with preservation groups to minimize any negative effects the transformation of the brigade may cause.
