Letters: State should address Waiahole Valley issues

Here we go again in Waiahole Valley (“Waiahole Valley preservation pact frays as state considers remedies to homestead issues,” Star-Advertiser, March 24). This time the state seems to be part of the problem when it should be the engine of a rational solution.

The situation involves outdated and dangerous septic tanks, unpaid lease rents, and future development in the valley. Clearly, the septic tanks are a health issue and directly affect the quality of our Windward aquifer. In the interest of public safety, the state should remove the septic tanks and put the valley on a modern sewer system; this is the top, immediate priority. The state can also address the issue of lease rents with extension assistance from the Department of Agriculture and the University of Hawaii and working agreements to provide income from the leases. Finally, the state must develop a satisfactory plan to use the valley in an appropriate, sustainable manner.

From all reports, the residents of the valley have been conscientious and dedicated stewards of the valley.

It’s time for the state to do something good rather than just being a bureaucracy.

Bill Friedl

Kailua