Hawaiian Homes Beneficiaries Weigh In on Kapolei Casino Proposal
The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, a state agency responsible for leasing homestead lots to Native Hawaiians, is proposing a casino resort in Kapolei. Randy Akau, President of the Kānehili Hawaiian Homestead Association in Kapolei, says this was the first he’s heard of it.
“My concern is that beneficiaries need to be at the table,” says Akau, “I know gaming can bring in a lot of things that are good and not good. One of the bright spots is jobs. I noticed that first opportunities will be given to Native Hawaiians. But we have to look at the social impact itʻll have.”