During a House Chamber meeting with the new legislative session, House Speaker Scott Saiki spoke on a number of issues, including COVID-19 vaccine distribution and other struggles faced by Mauna Kea, KHON 2 reported.
“The University of Hawaii has held the master lease to manage the astronomy precinct and the natural, cultural and preservation area since 1968,” Saiki said. “The master lease is set to expire in 2033 and the university is currently working to extend it. The university has tried to manage Mauna Kea, but for too long the university’s work has been shrouded by its inability to appropriately manage cultural practices, resources and education. This is why the University of Hawaii must no longer manage Mauna Kea and it should cease its work to extend the master lease.”
According to the speech, the House will be looking into legislation to make a change in the government structure of Mauna Kea.