HI SCR35

Requests the Hawaiʻi County Department of Water Supply to convene a working group to examine opportunities for increasing water access and strengthening water infrastructure for underserved communities on Hawaiʻi Island.

Urges the department to invite experts in water resource development, University of Hawaiʻi faculty conducting water resource management research, and community members including Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners and Native Hawaiian community representatives to participate in the working group.

Requires the working group to submit a report with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the 2024 Regular Session.

Notes that southwestern Hawaiʻi Island communities including Ocean View and Miloliʻi currently lack adequate county water infrastructure despite receiving approximately 26 inches of annual rainfall, compared to areas like Waikoloa which have reliable infrastructure despite receiving only 9 inches annually.

Directs certified copies of the resolution to be transmitted to the Mayor of Hawaiʻi County, County Council Chairperson, Water Board Chairperson, and Manager-Chief Engineer of the Department of Water Supply.