Hawaii Army Sign Nonbinding Framework to Expedite Land Lease Renewals

Hawaii Governor Josh Green and U.S. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll have established a non-binding Statement of Principles to guide ongoing discussions about renewing Army leases on state lands that expire in 2029. This framework prioritizes transparent, continuous dialogue to balance national security needs with the state's priorities, including the potential return of some lands to public use, cleanup of unexploded ordnance, and federal support for housing, infrastructure, and energy development. The agreement recognizes Hawaii's critical role in national security while emphasizing respect for local communities and culture. Both leaders stressed that this is a starting point, not a contract, aiming to develop a Memorandum of Understanding by the end of the year outlining clear parameters for land use. The process includes public input, reflecting significant local opposition and concerns voiced by Native Hawaiian groups and environmental activists. The Army seeks to return thousands of acres, such as nearly 3,300 acres at the Pōhakuloa Training Area, while retaining enough land to sustain its mission.