HI HB781

Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal year 2025-2026 to pay off bond debt service on the Waiahole water system, which transports water 26.4 miles from the Koolau mountains to Kunia on Oahu's leeward side.

Appropriates funds for fiscal year 2025-2026 to repair the adit 8 tunnel, a critical component of the Waiahole water system requiring $2,000,000 in design and construction for deferred maintenance.

The Waiahole water system serves approximately 5,600 acres supporting agricultural users including Aloun Farms, Hawaii Agriculture Research Center, and various nurseries, contributing $135,000,000 to the state economy and 2,000 jobs as of 2012.

Farmers have already paid $9,754,417.90 toward the original $8,500,000 bond (13% more than the bond amount), with a remaining balance of $4,500,000 that would result in total debt service fees of $14,000,000.

Takes effect July 1, 3000.