Hawaii State Senator Kurt Fevella has issued a public apology for his comments on the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) housing plans, but he has doubled down on his criticisms of the department’s proposals, according to Hawaii News Now.
“I want to apologize to anyone who was hurt or offended by my comments,” Fevella said in a statement. “However, I stand by my belief that the DHHL needs to prioritize the needs of Native Hawaiian beneficiaries and ensure that they have access to affordable housing.”
Fevella had come under fire for his remarks about the DHHL’s plans, which he described as “disappointing” and “disheartening”. He had called for a change in the department’s approach, saying that it needed to put the interests of Native Hawaiian beneficiaries first.
The DHHL’s housing plans have been a subject of controversy for several years, with many Native Hawaiian beneficiaries expressing frustration at the lack of progress in providing affordable housing options. Fevella’s comments sparked a heated debate on social media, with many people taking to Twitter to express their support for his stance.
“I will continue to advocate for the needs of our Native Hawaiian beneficiaries and ensure that they have access to affordable housing,” Fevella said in his statement. “I will work with the DHHL to find a solution that works for everyone.”
