Summary
Testifiers said the aquifer is at or near its sustainable yield, developers plan energy-hungry desalination, and the plan adds thousands of units without guaranteed water — calling it high-risk for the aquifer, reefs, and ratepayers.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 3
- Last 30 days
- 0
Discussed at 2 meetings in the last 60 days; most recently Sep 21, 2026.
Impact analysis
Desalination plants described as expensive and inflationary, with costs potentially passed to residents.
Developers of new projects gain water supply; residents would gain only if costs don't rise.
Residents risk aquifer depletion, higher utility costs, reef damage from desal brine, and less water for existing users.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Disaster Recovery, International Affairs, and Planning Committee (2025-2027) — September 21, 2026
Mayer flagged that the plan contains no analysis of gallons-per-day demand versus sustainable yield in the Kamaole Aquifer, and warned ratepayers countywide could see higher water and wastewater rates. Member Cook and Mayer discussed aquifer boundaries and possible Upcountry water transfers.
Disaster Recovery, International Affairs, and Planning Committee (2025-2027) — September 14, 2026
Testifiers said the aquifer is at or near its sustainable yield, developers plan energy-hungry desalination, and the plan adds thousands of units without guaranteed water — calling it high-risk for the aquifer, reefs, and ratepayers.
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