The primary goal of those opposing Laumaka Estates, a controversial Nu'uanu Valley development, is, of course, to stop the homes from being built on what they contend is unstable upland property.

Whether or not the experts come to agreement on that question, however, the opponents make a second point that is more clear-cut:

The public should be able to see an environmental document submitted to the city for review while the project is still under consideration. It's unfortunate that issue couldn't have been resolved before it became a matter for the courts to decide, at taxpayer expense.

The Nu'uanu Valley Association, representing area residents, in March sued the city and its planning officials, alleging a violation of public information and environmental laws because they failed to require an environmental assessment for the proposed Laumaka Estates subdivision. They also complained that the city would not release the engineering reports the developer submitted for the project.

The association eventually got at least some of the documents — from the developer, not the city — but its members believe it's the city's obligation to let the public see official reports that are under review.

They're right. Setting the environmental law question aside, it's puzzling why the information-access dispute couldn't have been resolved quickly. The planning office could let the public see copies of the original documents while officials are reviewing them. This seems logical, particularly since the report, complete with any city commentary, is made public upon its final acceptance.

Most subdivision permits don't arouse this much curiosity, but in the interest of open government, there's every reason to let the public in on the process wherever possible.