On first glance, it seems good that the Legislature is moving toward approving Senate Bill 77, which is critical to meet federal funding requirements for the Ala Wai flood control project. We all realize the necessity of proactive, preventive action against disaster (“Ala Wai project will affect 37 properties,” Star-Advertiser, March 15).

However, taking property without due notice is not acceptable, and we need to work together harder to find solutions that are not at the expense of individual property owners.

In addition, certainly the diverse multitude of Ala Wai Canal users hope for a better idea than a 4-foot wall surrounding it.

Ominously, the article suggested that Congressional authorization of the project’s specific design features (the wall and retention/detention basins) means that federal funding hinges on those features.

If that is the case, the state should take pause.

Karin Lynn

Moiliili

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