Spotlight Now: Controversy over Oahu’s next landfill, island crime trends
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - On this episode of “Spotlight Now,” we explore the city’s proposal to build a new landfill near Wahiawa, on agricultural land above Oahu’s aquifer. The announcement has drawn support and criticism from lawmakers and the public.
Honolulu Department of Environmental Services Director Roger Babcock
Roger Babcock, director of the city’s Department of Environmental Services, defended the proposed site. He said the city will take every environmental precaution, and even brought props to showcase how they will line the landfill to prevent contamination.
If the site is found to be unsuitable, he says they’ll either have to amend Act 73 to broaden out potential new locations or expand Waimanalo Gulch to extend its life. Either one of those will require the legislature to get involved.
Board of Water Supply Manager & Chief Engineer Ernie Lau
Board of Water Supply manager and chief engineer Ernie Lau called the site “Red Hill No. 2.” Lau expressed his respect for the mayor, but said he is vehemently opposed to the site because it poses a major threat to the aquifer 800 feet below.
RELATED STORY: Board of Water Supply manager calls proposed landfill site ‘Red Hill Two’
He said that this site was one of the six that the original landfill working group had reviewed and rejected, and that he will be being a vocal opponent of this location as the city tries to move it forward.
As for Red Hill itself, Lau explained where the Navy is in its decommissioning process, and accused officials of not being forthcoming with data on contamination at the site. He said the Halawa Shaft will remain closed indefinitely, and the BWS is at least a decade away from being able to open a new drinking water source, though they are actively looking for new well sites.
Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm
Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm said that despite public perception, crime is actually down in all key areas.
Alm noted a spike in ghost gun seizures. Last year HPD recovered 34 ghost guns; this year it was 84. This upcoming legislative session, Alm plans to work with lawmakers to tighten up legislation by penalizing the possession of ghost guns and their components.
Tune in next week Tuesday, Dec. 24, for an update on Hawaii’s film and television industry.
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