Big Island News: Hawaii County Council Delays Sale of Hamakua Lands to Look Further Into Title

Stepping into uncharted territory, the Hawaii County Council will examine the title on the 4400 acres, acquired from Hamakua Sugar company for back taxes in 1994.

There is a proposal on the floor right now to sell a good portion of these lands, to help balance the budget.

There are many citizens who oppose this sale, but the council decided to delay their decision for another reason. They want to look into a possible cloud on their title.

What they will find, is that Hamakua Sugar Company actually only held a lease from the Hawaiian Kingdom, for the life of the company.

There was never a clear title until one was fabricated and put into record on the real property maps. Whether this will be spoken of is another matter.

Clear title to land in Hawaii is a matter of opinion at this point, because the law, if followed, would require that the US withdraw, and Hawaii be restored as a sovereign nation.

However, the council's willingness to look at this particular issue, and open a window to let some light in on a long buried injustice is inspiring. Where they will go with it is up to the individuals in the council.