Tom Coffman, Cliff Slater and a representative of the Environmental Caucus of the Democratic Party of Hawaii testified in person in Kapolei this morning. The overriding message: Slow down.

They said HART should not proceed with construction until the lawsuit is resolved; until the federal government approves final design or writes a $1.55 billion check; or until the land use fight over Hoopili is resolved.

Board member Don Horner thanked Slater for his “fervor” and commitment against rail because his advocacy has shed light on issues and helped improve the project. He compared the differences between rail advocates and opponents to squabbling between husband and wife.