Posted at 3:44 p.m., Friday, January 18, 2008
OHA-state settlement formally announced
Advertiser Staff
The Office of Hawaiian Affairs and state officials today formally announced a deal in which OHA will gain title to nearly 200 acres in Hilo, Kaka'ako and Kalaeloa to settle a decades-old dispute over the revenues the state generates from lands that were turned over to the United States by the Republic of Hawai'i in 1898.The plan, which was approved by the OHA board of trustees yesterday but must still must be approved by the state Legislature, also includes a one-time $13.2 million cash transfer. The state would also continue to pay OHA about $15.1 million in cash annually.
"I am pleased that the state and OHA have reached a reasonable, fair and just settlement to permanently and completely resolve the ongoing dispute that is in the best and long-term interest of native Hawaiians and all the people of Hawai'i," Gov. Linda Lingle said.
