The Inside Track: RISE Bonds

Description

The Inside Track is a live, in-person event series that brings together leaders from key public and private sectors to share critical updates on upcoming construction projects across Hawaii. More than a rundown of bid opportunities, each session offers in-depth insights into priorities, funding outlooks, and long-term planning.

At the November 2026 general election, Hawaii’s voters will be confronted with a critical question at the ballot box. If authorized by the electorate, RISE (Resilient Infrastructure for Shelter and Equity) Bonds could be a potential tool to finance infrastructure by pledging a portion of future property-tax revenues from designated districts. RISE Bonds (also known as tax increment financing) is a regularly used financing mechanism on the US continent, but not in Hawaii. It’s a complicated topic, especially for voters without any real understanding of their purpose. Without clear public education, RISE bonds (and the ballot question) may be misunderstood.

The Hawaii Institute for Public Affairs (HIPA) and Fieldman Rolapp & Associates (Municipal Financial Advisors) recently released an independent report on tax increment financing. The report provides an overview of RISE Bonds – its pros, cons, issues, concerns and opportunities – which can be used to educate voters, key stakeholders and policymakers on this financing tool for infrastructure and development. HIPA will be available to present a summary of the RISE Bonds report to GCA Members.

Stay informed. Stay connected. Stay competitive.

Presenters:

Perry Arrasmith
President, HIPA

Cameron Deptula
Vice President, HIPA

DRESS CODE POLICY

Business, Business Casual, and/or Aloha Attire. The Pacific Club’s dress code policy prohibits slippers, athletic shoes, jeans, shorts, t-shirts, knit pullovers and tank tops from being worn at the club.

CELL PHONE POLICY

Cell phones and electronic devices should be switched to silent or vibrate while on Club property. Members and guests should not take phone calls under the Club roof. Permitted areas include the lawn, lobby phone booth, foyer, exterior walkways, and parking lot.