In September 2020, OHA adopted a strategic plan that outlines the priorities and initiatives to be implemented through 2035. The plan centers around four primary areas.
OHA aims to increase the number of Native Hawaiian students who graduate high school ready for careers or higher education, with a special focus on supporting Hawaiian charter schools and traditional educational systems. By improving educational pathways, OHA seeks to empower Native Hawaiians to succeed and thrive.
OHA is committed to addressing the housing needs of Native Hawaiians, particularly by expanding affordable housing options. This includes addressing the backlog of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) wait-list with initiatives like non-traditional housing options (e.g., tiny homes and multi-generational lots). OHA also hopes to prevent the out-migration of Hawaiians to more affordable areas on the continent, such as Las Vegas, by providing affordable housing on Hawaiian lands.
Strengthening the economic foundation of Native Hawaiian communities is another key priority. OHA plans to increase access to small business capital, promote entrepreneurial opportunities, and enhance employment prospects for Native Hawaiians. Additionally, OHA seeks to support Native Hawaiian-owned businesses, helping them grow by connecting them to new markets and ensuring they pay a livable wage.
OHA’s health initiatives aim to strengthen the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing of Native Hawaiians. The plan includes providing access to culturally adapted health programs and services and addressing the overrepresentation of Native Hawaiians in the criminal justice system.
OHA is committed to better management of its financial resources and investments, including reviewing and aligning its investment policies with its strategic goals. The agency aims to grow its financial portfolio through the development of its land assets, including prime commercial and agricultural lands.
A central goal for OHA is the protection and sustainable use of Hawaiian lands and natural resources. This includes advocating for traditional and customary rights, protecting land and water resources (such as the Mauna Kea and Nā Wai ʻEhā), and ensuring that OHA continues to serve as a steward of these resources for future generations.
OHA will continue our advocacy for our true and fair share of the Public Land Trust revenues. During the 2022 Legislative Session, we were able to raise the annual capped payout to OHA from $15.1 million to $21.5 million and received $64 million in back pay for 10 years of the difference between the two numbers. Mahalo nui loa to Sen. Donovan dela Cruz.
One of the most significant opportunities for OHA’s growth is the development of its land holdings in Kakaʻako Makai. This prime real estate has largely remained undeveloped, and we see it as a key asset for generating revenue. The plan involves creating a mixed-use, vibrant community in Honolulu that will benefit both OHA’s beneficiaries and the general public.
OHA envisions commercial, cultural, and residential opportunities in Kakaʻako, generating income for the trust fund and providing business and housing opportunities for Native Hawaiians. To succeed, OHA will need support from the state legislature and other stakeholders, including the Hawaiʻi Community Development Authority (HCDA).
The trustees are grounded in a commitment to integrity, transparency and service. Our vision for OHA is rooted in Hawaiian values of respect, cultural preservation, and stewardship. We stress the importance of working together with the broader Hawaiian community to achieve these ambitious goals. The continuing task ahead is great, but the collective strength of the Hawaiian people will ensure that OHA can successfully fulfill its mission.
We will holo mua with our strategic goals in education, housing, economic stability, health, and land stewardship, while also focusing on financial growth through land development and fostering stronger community engagement.
