OUR TOP ISSUES

The region's beauty and resources draw outsiders who squeeze its residents

1. Jobs/economy: The challenges of Hawaii's economy have significantly affected the Koolauloa region of Oahu as families struggle to make ends meet and still find time for family friends and community.

2. Education: The Koolauloa region has faced hardship brought on by cuts to the state Department of Education, with the possibility of Kaaawa Elementary closing. And, like much of the state, Furlough Fridays has had a significant negative impact on the community.

3. Affordable housing: With shrinking availability of housing and the increasing number of second homes and vacation rentals in Koolauloa, many families have been forced to move out of state, while other who wish to stay in their hometowns and remain closer to family and loved ones struggle to find housing in the Koolauloa area.

4. Water and natural resources: The Koolauloa region continues to be a significant source of vital resources for the island of Oahu. In particular we have abundant water and wind resources, which may soon be harnessed as a source of renewable energy for Oahu.

The area remains a prime destination for visitors to see the natural beauty of Oahu. Finding a balance for meeting these needs is a challenge the community constantly faces.

5. Disaster preparedness: The particular vulnerability of Koolauloa to natural disasters such as tsunamis and hurricanes is a challenge the community has been particularly focused on taking on.

Churches, schools, community associations and businesses are coming together to work on disaster preparedness to minimize the toll any disaster would have if/when they occur.

These community organizations will be pivotal if/when a disaster strikes this area, and their engagement and preparation is a unique characteristic of the Koolauloa communities.

SO SPECIAL

An island treasure

The Koolauloa region has been, and continues to be, an enormous asset to the island of Oahu and the state of Hawaii. We continue to supply resources, especially water that supports the health and well-being of hundreds of thousands of people. We continue to be a preserve for natural beauty and scenery, as well as for cultural values and traditions, while producing and participating in advancements in science and technology, such as hosting one of the most advanced wind farms in the country.

Our schools produce some of the top-performing students in the state who compete very well at the national level, both in and outside of the classroom.

Our environment conservation efforts are outstanding as we pursue an environmentally conscientious approach toward economic development and sustainability.

FACTS & FIGURES

Koolauloa is on Oahu's northeastern shore, from Waimea Bay to Kaaawa. “;Koolau”; means “;windward”; and “;loa”; means long. The valleys from Laie to Kahana are well-watered and fertile.

According to City-Data.com, Koolauloa's:

» Estimated median household income in 2008 was $63,702.
» Estimated median house or condo value in 2008 was $570,964.
» Racial make-up was 31 percent white non-Hispanic, 28 percent two or more races, 26.3 percent native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, 7 percent Hispanic, 5 percent Filipino, 3 percent Japanese, 2 percent Chinese and 2 percent other Asian.