Many years ago, my graduate government management course curricula included reading a landmark study about governance in a major mainland city, titled “Community Power Structure” (Hunter, F. 1953. Community Power Structure: A Study of Decision of Makers. Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press).

Essentially, the study discovered that more major city government decisions were made by people outside of government than by public officials. Powerful money interests controlled major governance decisions through supporting political candidates both before and after elections. Short-term income and profit had become the main factors shaping government action, rather than the long-term needs of the city and its residents.

City infrastructure deteriorated, parts of the city were neglected, quality of life for many decreased, and even public upheavals occurred. After 64 years, could symptoms of this dynamic be evident in our city?

After over 40 years on neighborhood boards, I have seen quite a few eyebrow-raising government actions. I have seen housing developments approved without meaningful low-income housing; multiple high-rise apartment buildings built that local residents could ill afford; developments permitted in major areas of scarce, fertile farmland; a planning commission add specific development projects at the last minute that other government agencies did not study or propose.

In addition to that, there have been industrial developments approved without city sewers; housing developments approved without requiring schools or parks; hazardous waste dumping not effectively enforced; water pollution events not reported; and inspector positions not funded.

What am I to think when I see sensitive habitat and resource lands being proposed for tourist attractions, actions to adhere to environmental laws taken only after lawsuits or consent decrees, or no meaningful enforcement of existing laws preventing renting homes to tourists during a housing supply crisis?

There could be valid reasons for some of the actions that have occurred, but some could also be similar to what was discovered in the “Community Power Structure’” study. How could you find out? Could you realistically do anything about it, or are you powerless?

You have, in fact, tremendous power. The way to make a difference is to be informed and to participate. Get involved! In cities with growth pressures, strong public participation in government and the land use planning process can help ensure that decisions are consistent with local residents’ needs and values. Government becomes more honest and more effective.

If the general public is not actively involved, it is possible that decisions will be made by a few individuals or small groups based upon their own special or short-term interests.

Follow news media reports and advertisements; watch closely for any bias. Request that your name be put on mailing or e-mail lists for city Planning Department hearings, Planning Commission notices, City Council zoning and planning committee agendas, Legislature bills, and state board and commission agendas (many are already online). Submit written testimony on items that concern you, and attend meetings to deliver your testimony orally when possible.

If you think that change is needed, embrace the power you have as a citizen in a democracy and take action.

Chuck Prentiss, Ph.D., is the former executive secretary of the Honolulu Planning Commission, and chairman of the Kailua Neighborhood Board.