The Hawaii Legislature is certain to repeal the Public Land Development Corporation, but there is still great suspicion about development-related legislation.

On Thursday (March 7) the Senate approved Senate Bill 215, which creates a public-private partnership authority to initiate three pilot projects. But before the vote Sens. Russell Ruderman and Laura Thielen warned that the PPPA bill was — or could later become — a PLDC-like measure.

The architect of PPPA, Donovan Dela Cruz, defended SB 215, saying the Senate had taken into consideration public concerns. He noted the scope of the bill was limited and would sunset in five years. Fundamentally, the bill was about creating jobs, he argued.

“This is an opportunity to show we are not giving up on Hawaii,” said Dela Cruz.

His close ally, Malama Solomon, followed with a passionate defense of the bill — and of herself.

“I’m tired of people thinking I am anti-environment,” she said, nearly shouting. Solomon said she wants to “create a future” for Hawaii rather than one that, as she suggested, smells like urine. She was referring to the homeless situation that plagues downtown Honolulu.

The lone Republican, Sam Slom, remarked, “This has been a really interesting discussion. It pains me greatly to see disarray among the majority.”

Laughter ensued.

The vote on SB 215 was 20-5, with Ruderman, Thielen, Les Ihara, Josh Green and Mike Gabbard voting “no.” Now it goes to the House.

—Chad Blair