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The Honolulu City Council’s Bill 59, to boost property tax incentives for private filmmakers who invest $100 million or more in an Oahu film studio, gives the city a voice in “what gets constructed,” Mayor Rick Blangiardi told state legislators. But first, it would have to pass.
City efforts intersect with the University of Hawaii’s pursuit of a privately funded film studio at UH-West Oahu; in June, UH put out a request for proposals. Blangiardi was quizzed on the project Monday, during a city presentation to legislative committees.
“There are several players involved,” the mayor said, but no formal commitments. Those players may be waiting to see if Bill 59 sweetens the deal.