Special Management Area (SMA)
Projects within the "Special Management Area" (SMA) are required to undergo review by the Planning Commissions. If the proposed project is compatible with current zoning, then ONLY the Commission's approval is required (with appropriate design review), and the Planning Director has discretion to extend timelines without County Council review.
Current projects of concern are listed here:
75-5868 Aliʻi Drive
PL-SMA-2023-000038
"Kona Hawaiʻi Development LLC," a subsidiary of Diamond Resorts International, is asking to DOUBLE in size their expired permit in order to build a 100+ room hotel located at 75-5868 Aliʻi Drive, with all access via tiny Kahakai Road. You know this location as the eyesore near the intersection of Wālua Road and Aliʻi Drive. This property has timeline of applications with failure to follow through dating from 1998. They claim this project will have no impact on traffic, water, sewer, runoff, or other environmental concerns.
If thatʻs true, then why is this project strongly OPPOSED by District 8 Council member Dr. Holeka Inaba — on traffic, parking, and environmental concerns?
UPDATE: The Planning Commission chose to approve this plan even though the developer's application indicated they are unlikely to stay within their water allocation. The owners are now seeking a setback variance, as there is simply not enough footage between the structure footprint and Aliʻi Drive. Stay tuned...