The Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) is currently discussing their budget and priorities, with a focus on hidden expenditures. The agency is seeking approval from the Legislature to exempt their financial meetings under public disclosure laws, while also advocating for transparency and public input. OHA’s ongoing ‘Ka Ulana Pilina’ project aims to connect with the Indigenous community through news articles and opinion pieces in the Hawaiian language.
OHA’s budget proposal for the 2025 legislative session includes plans to review their financial practices and building projects. They are also looking to address issues related to land purchases, cultural preservation, and financial stewardship. The agency emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in their decision-making processes.
On the other hand, critics like Brian Black from the Public First Law Center argue that OHA should be more transparent and adhere to stricter limits on their financial practices. OHA’s efforts to protect the confidentiality of sensitive financial information have sparked concerns about accountability and public oversight.
OHA is also considering changes to their selection process for financial trustees and restricting development within ancestral burial sites and conservation areas. The agency is working to engage the community in these discussions and ensure that their decisions reflect the needs and values of the Hawaiian people.
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