He has introduced a bill this session that instructs the governor to either purchase or condemn much of the property through eminent domain. The land is owned by Oaktree Capital.

Senate Bill 894 would appropriate up to $100 million from the general fund during the next two fiscal years for the purchase of undeveloped lands. The hotel and condominium properties would be unaffected.

SB 894 reads: 

The proposed expansion of the Property located in the ahupuaa of Hana Kaoe in Kahuku on the island of Oahu is contrary to this public interest.  Therefore, the legislature believes that it is in the public’s best interest to continue efforts to acquire the Property for preservation by purchasing those lands, exercising the State’s power of eminent domain to acquire the Property, or participating in a cooperative agreement to acquire the Property.

(Photo: Flickr: BOBDOGidaho)