More than two-thirds (68 percent) of Ko'olau Loa district residents support growth that improves the quality of life for families that live there, according to a recent survey.

This survey is the third study in three years to examine the values and priorities of the people living in the Ko'olau Loa region. Results from this study reaffirm results of earlier surveys that reveal concerns about the supply of jobs and housing, and support for the principles outlined in the community-inspired, final draft of the Ko'olau Loa Sustainable Communities Plan (KSCP).

 

Contrary to the previous survey, the majority of those polled say they feel the community is now going in the right direction.

 

The survey was conducted by nationally recognized Heart+Mind Strategies in partnership with Ward Research from February 7 to March 5 of 2013. A total of 650 O'ahu residents, including 155 residents from the Ko'olau Loa district were polled.

 

 

 

"Our community has seen a fair amount of attrition, with folks moving away because they cannot find affordable housing or jobs," said Verla Moore, Lā'ie Community Association board member. "It is important that new development meets the needs of area residents and workers while protecting our natural and cultural qualities."

 

Residents across O'ahu cite traffic and bad road conditions as the most important problems on the island. People who reside in the Ko'olau Loa area also feel that traffic is somewhat of an issue, but they feel that crime, unemployment and the cost of housing are more pressing problems for their region.

 

The North/East Shore community is also challenged by the lack of job opportunities, with 40 percent fewer jobs per household than the rest of the island. The community is also challenged with high housing prices. The average home value in the Ko'olau Loa district is $595,000 compared to $537,000 for the rest of O'ahu. 

Hundreds attend December 2010 public hearing in support of Envision Laie and the KSCP draft

Island-wide, both O'ahu and Ko'olau Loa residents feel very strongly that residents should have the most say over what happens in their community. In Ko'olau Loa, 50 percent of families have participated in the community planning process by attending meetings about the KSCP or speaking on issues they care about. A solid majority of Ko'olau Loa residents support the policies outlined in the KSCP, including the development of quality affordable housing that fits the rural character of the area.

 

Mahalo,

 

The Envision Lā'ie Team