“In my name, I promise HC&S will not go under like the 16 other sugar cane operations”

Chris Hamilton reports that Maui’s last remaining sugar business may soon be in the biofuel business.

“In my name, I promise HC&S will not go under like the 16 other sugar cane operations,” [Senator] Inouye said. “If I am wrong, I will be out of a job.”

The announcement comes at an important time for the future of old plantations on the Valley Isle. A decision was expected two weeks ago in the Na Wai Eha water case, and a new use for sugar lands could be the very excuse that Alexander & Baldwin needs to keep its precious water rights. And the active involvement of Senator Daniel Inouye illustrates a historical fact, from its beginning to its end, sugar in Hawaii has been government-supported.