Public Meetings - Honolulu, Hawaii

The Committee on Government Efficiency and Customer Services met remotely and in person on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 2:32 p.m. to 2:51 p.m. Chaired by Councilmember Dosantos Town, the committee considered two resolutions and one bill. All items were advanced after discussion and testimony. Public Comments & Testimony - Dalen Cam (in-person) testified in favor of both resolutions. He noted that he has not updated his knowledge of road rules since obtaining his license and supported requiring updated testing for drivers. - Angela Melady Young (remote) registered to testify on Resolution 26-2 but was not present when called. - Stephanie Kendrick (Hawaiian Humane Society) testified on Bill 8 (2025) via remote connection. She supported the proposed CD1, stating it provides a civil alternative to criminal penalties for animal nuisance violations, which have been difficult to enforce due to court backlogs. She also requested that similar penalty provisions be added to the stray dog ordinance (Article 12, Section 4) for public safety. Discussion Items Resolution 21-26-1 – Requesting the state legislature to model new testing requirements after the city's online permit application process. - Councilmember Cordero explained the resolution, highlighting that 75% of permit applications are now completed online. - Director Kim Hishiro (Department of Customer Services) noted the department's concerns about implementation timelines and avoiding backlogs but acknowledged the success of online permit testing. - The resolution was reported out for adoption without objection. Resolution 26-2 – Requesting the state Department of Transportation and the Department of Education to include pedestrian safety, bicyclist rights, and multimodal roadway use in driver's license testing and educational materials. - Councilmember Cordero introduced the resolution, calling attention to the expansion of bike lanes and need for driver awareness of rules such as the three-foot passing law. - Director Hishiro testified in support, agreeing that bicycle and pedestrian safety should be emphasized. - The resolution was reported out for adoption without objection. Bill 8 (2025) – Amending provisions related to animal nuisances. - Councilmember Okimoto presented the bill and the proposed CD1, which makes technical clarifications to the director's enforcement authority. He noted that the measure arose from community concerns about unleashed animals and aggressive dog attacks. - Director Hishiro supported the CD1 and recommended a further amendment to Section 7 to add clarifying language to subpart C of Section 12-2 regarding appeal rules. - Stephanie Kendrick supported the measure and requested that similar civil penalty provisions be applied to stray dogs, though the Chair indicated that a separate bill would be needed for that topic. Key Outcomes - Resolution 21-26-1 – Adopted unanimously (no objections or reservations) and ordered reported out to the full council. - Resolution 26-2 – Adopted unanimously and ordered reported out. - Bill 8 (2025) – Approved as amended: the committee adopted the posted CD1 (OCS 2025-0914) with a further amendment recommended by the Department of Customer Services (adding “under this article” to the first sentence of subpart C in 12-2.1). The bill was then ordered reported out for second reading and scheduling of a public hearing. No objections were heard.

The committee met to consider three resolutions: confirming appointments to the Fire Commission and Police Commission, accepting a $125,000 gift for the Honolulu Zoo, and receiving an informational briefing on the HPD Staffing and Retention Task Force's report. All resolutions were advanced for adoption. Public Comments & Testimony - William Mornellas, a retired HPD major, testified in support of recruiting more Hawaiian, Samoan, and Filipino police officers to underserved communities like Waimanalo, Nanakuli, and Papakolea. He emphasized the importance of community-based recruitment. Discussion Items - Resolution 25-321: Fire Commission Appointment – The committee considered the appointment of Geyson Antai to the Fire Commission for a term expiring December 31, 2029. Antai, in-house legal counsel for Queens Health Systems, stated his interest in supporting the fire department's leadership and ensuring accountability. No public testimony was offered. The committee voted to report the resolution out for adoption. - Resolution 25-322: Police Commission Appointment – The committee considered the appointment of Gary Yabuta to the Police Commission for a term expiring December 31, 2030. Yabuta, executive director of the Hawaii High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) and a former Maui police chief with 47 years of law enforcement experience, expressed his commitment to helping select the next HPD police chief. Councilmembers praised his experience. No public testimony was offered. The committee voted to report the resolution out for adoption. - Resolution 25-329: Gift Acceptance for Honolulu Zoo – The committee accepted a $125,000 gift from the Honolulu Zoological Society to install fencing around the giraffe exhibit to meet AZA accreditation standards. Director Tina Hollifield from Enterprise Services noted that the zoo is six weeks away from an accreditation visit. No public testimony. The resolution was reported out for adoption. - Informational Briefing: HPD Staffing and Retention Task Force Report – Councilmember Tupola, chair of the task force, presented the report (Council Communication 251-2025). The report detailed current vacancy statistics: 2,177 authorized sworn positions with a 41% increase in vacancies from 2021 to 2024; only 98 officers hired from 2,136 applicants in 2024 (4% yield). Civilian vacancies: 101 of 352 civilian personnel eligible to retire. Recruitment challenges included high drop-off at entrance exam (34%) and background checks (17%). The task force made several recommendations including: a $2,000 employee referral bonus for recruits who complete academy; a pre-academy mentorship program; a housing stipend (estimated $12 million/year); employer health insurance contribution increase; parking stipend for civilian employees; retention bonus for senior personnel; expansion of civilian roles; expanded reserve officer program; digital evidence modernization; simulation-based training; and culture improvements including leadership training and 360-degree evaluations. Chief Bannick indicated that lower-cost items like parking stipends may be more immediately feasible. Councilmembers expressed interest in a phased approach to funding, particularly for housing stipends. Key Outcomes - Resolutions 25-321, 25-322, and 25-329 were all reported out of committee for adoption by the full council. - The committee received the HPD task force report for informational purposes; no formal vote was taken. Councilmember Tupola indicated that the committee will revisit progress after one year to measure the impact of implemented recommendations. The budget committee will consider funding options during the upcoming budget cycle.

The Honolulu Committee on Zoning and Planning met on January 15, 2026, at 9:03 AM to consider several resolutions, including extensions of deadlines, a reappointment to the Building Board of Appeals, a special management area permit, and a proposed amendment to an affordable senior housing project. The committee also received an informational briefing on a new AI-guided software for residential permit pre-checks. Key actions included granting a 90-day extension, approving the reappointment, and postponing a controversial housing age amendment. Public Comments & Testimony - Angela (remote testifier) expressed support for the CivCheck AI software program, stating it provides objective feedback, reduces errors, and decreases stress for applicants and staff. She noted that AI integration with government processes is being examined across the state, citing examples from the Attorney General's office and DOE. Discussion Items - Resolution 25-333 (SMA Permit Extension) : Chair recommended a 90-day extension for the resolution granting a special management area major permit to Robert Vavell for a new single-unit dwelling, pool, spa, garage, and recreation room on a 13,230 sq. ft. shoreline lot (68-309 Crozier Drive, Waialua). The Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) had no objections. The extension was granted without discussion. - Resolution 25-320 (Building Board of Appeals Reappointment) : The resolution confirms the reappointment of Gina Thielen (construction manager at Complete Construction Services) to the Building Board of Appeals for a term ending December 31, 2030. A CD1 version was introduced with technical amendments. Ms. Thielen testified that the board's statutory authority is too restrictive (only allowing overturning a building official's decision if based on erroneous fact, arbitrary/capricious action, or manifest abuse of discretion), and suggested revisiting the language. DPP Director Don Takiuchi supported the reappointment and agreed to review Ms. Thielen's recommendations. The resolution was amended to CD1 and reported out for adoption. - Resolution 25-299 (SMA Permit for Margaret Taylor) : This resolution grants a special management area major permit for a new two-story single-unit dwelling with decks, eight-car garage, swimming pool, and fence on a 23,256 sq. ft. lot (430 D North Kalaheo Avenue, Kailua). A CD1 was introduced with conditions: the new dwelling must have only one kitchen, one laundry room, and maximum four bathrooms; the applicant must acknowledge responsibility for coastal hazard cleanup; and must comply with archaeological survey and invasive species protocols. The project site is 90% within the 3.2 ft. sea level rise exposure area by 2100, though the shoreline is accreting at 2.2 ft./year. The applicant's agent, Mark Howlin, presented that the dwelling is for the owner's daughter and will not be used for short-term rentals. DPP had no objections. The resolution was amended to CD1 and reported out for adoption. - Resolution 26-6 (Addendum: Senior Affordable Housing Age Amendment) : This resolution authorizes amendments to the ground lease and development agreement for the Holly Veliko Senior Affordable Rental Housing Project (139 units, 60% AMI or below) at the former IA Sugar Mill site. The developer (EAH Housing) requested lowering the minimum age from 62 to 55 due to 39 vacant units (28% of 139) after the project received a certificate of occupancy on August 13, 2025. DHLM Director Kevin Auger supported the change, noting that federal HOPA rules allow 55+ senior housing. Councilmembers expressed concerns about the short marketing period (4 months), potential displacement of older kupuna, and lack of community outreach. Councilmember Cordero noted that the IA community was not informed. The developer stated they offered lease-up incentives (reduced deposits, free rent) and had a waitlist of 33 people aged 55+. DPP confirmed that other projects (e.g., Hale Voyolu, Kokua Hale) had similar age reductions. The chair postponed action on the resolution to February 5, 2026, at 9:00 AM. - Informational Briefing: CivCheck AI Software : DPP Director Don Takiuchi presented CivCheck, an AI-guided software that pre-checks residential building permit applications. The software checks over 245 regulations across 8 review groups (permit intake, residential/land use, zoning, stormwater, water supply, wastewater, fire, traffic). It launched in November 2025, and so far 17 applications have been received voluntarily. The goal is to reduce review cycles from 3-6 to 1-2. A 70% reduction in review time has been observed. Phase 2 (commercial) is planned for summer 2026. Councilmembers discussed the high number of checks (102 for permit intake) and asked about consolidation. Director Takiuchi noted that the software is still being refined and will eventually become mandatory for residential permits. He encouraged applicants to use the free voluntary service via the DPP website. Key Outcomes - Resolution 25-333: Granted a 90-day extension (no objections). - Resolution 25-320: Amended to CD1 and reported out for adoption unanimously. - Resolution 25-299: Amended to CD1 and reported out for adoption unanimously. - Resolution 26-6: Action postponed to February 5, 2026, at 9:00 AM, due to insufficient time for council consideration and community concerns. - CivCheck Briefing: No action taken; DPP will provide an update on permitting processes at the next month's hearing.

The Committee on International and Legal Affairs met on January 15, 2026, to discuss Resolution 25-313, concerning collective bargaining negotiations between the City and OTS (the bus service operator) and Teamsters Local 996, representing bus operators, mechanics, and support staff. The meeting also included an executive session to discuss lawsuits against the city. The committee ultimately voted to defer action on Resolution 25-313 to next month. Public Comments & Testimony - Jonathan Makwey: Expressed full support for Resolution 25-313. - Holly Golderama (Teamsters Local 996 and Live Workers): Testified in full support of the bill. - Jonathan Johnson: Expressed support for the resolution. - Tavesi Algaffa: Expressed support for the resolution. - Jonathan Reid (Teamsters 996): Expressed support for the resolution. - Sandy Chung: Expressed support for the bill. - Terrence Kaloha (Hawaii Teamsters Local 996): Expressed support for the resolution. - Kevin Holu (Teamsters Local 996): Spoke at length in support of the resolution, emphasizing that workers are essential to the city and deserve fairness, dignity, and respect. He stated that workers went through a seven-year contract and were told by OTS to "move to San Francisco" if they wanted higher wages, which he called "a huge slap in the face." He urged the council to support the resolution to help negotiations proceed correctly without public relations interference. Discussion Items - Resolution 25-313: The resolution, introduced by Councilmember Wires, aimed to signal council support for fair wages and conditions for city bus workers during ongoing collective bargaining with OTS. Chair Nishimoto noted that it is unusual for the council to involve itself in active collective bargaining, but he took up the resolution to show concern while allowing space for negotiations. He recommended deferring action until next month to give both parties time to reach an agreement. - Councilmember Wires: Stated that the intent was to acknowledge that bus workers are part of the city 'ohana and to ensure the council is not seen as a limiting factor in negotiations. He emphasized the importance of setting a standard as an employer. - Councilmember Okimoto: Expressed support for workers but concern that the resolution may be outside the council's jurisdiction and could set a bad precedent for future negotiations. He hoped negotiations would resolve before next month. - Councilmember Tupolo: Supported the deferral and thanked Kevin Holu for leadership, expressing confidence that negotiations could be resolved without council intervention. - Councilmember Kiyano: Addressed OTS leadership directly, stating they need to "come to closure" on negotiations and warned that the measure would be pending consideration if not resolved. He hoped they were watching. Executive Session - The committee entered executive session to discuss two lawsuits: Saki versus City and County of Honolulu and Shelton versus City and County of Honolulu. No public testimony was offered. The committee reconvened and voted to report out the request for authorization to settle the Shelton case for adoption. Key Outcomes - Resolution 25-313: The committee voted to postpone action on Resolution 25-313 until February's meeting. The roll call vote was: Member Cordero (Aye), Member Kiyano (Aye), Member Okimoto (Aye), Vice Chair Tupolo (Aye), Chair Waters (Aye), Member Wires (No). Chair Nishimoto voted Aye. Member Dos Santos Tam was excused. The resolution will be considered again if negotiations remain unresolved. - Executive Session: The committee approved reporting out the authorization to settle the Shelton versus City and County of Honolulu lawsuit for adoption. No further details were provided. - All other reports and motions were adopted without objection. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned following the executive session actions.

The Committee on Infrastructure Transportation and Technology met on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 9:02 a.m. remotely and in person to consider three agenda items: approval of easements for sewer lines (D-866 2025), a resolution authorizing an MOU with the State Historic Preservation Division for historic district review (Resolution 25-332), and an informational briefing on the Department of Transportation Services' active transportation monitoring program. Agenda Item 1: Grant of Easements for Public Use (D-866 2025) - Aaron Sakamoto from the Department of Design and Construction (DDC) presented the request for acceptance of four easements for sewer lines in Honolulu. The easements were created at no cost to the city, and construction of the sewer lines was already completed. - Councilmembers asked about the purpose (sewer capacity for new residential buildings), future capacity needs, and DDC's role in processing dedications and recordkeeping. DDC noted that mapping information will be shared with DIT for GIS integration. - No public testimony was offered. - Outcome: The committee voted to report the document out for council approval with no objections. Agenda Item 2: Resolution 25-332 – MOU with State Historic Preservation Division - The committee considered Resolution 25-332 authorizing an MOU between the city and DLNR's State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) for review of permitted projects in Chinatown and Merchant Street historic districts. A hand-carried CD1 was distributed with amendments. - Councilmember DeSantis Tam asked about DPP staff qualifications (currently hiring SOI-qualified archaeologists and architectural historians), the number of variance/waiver requests received (none to date), and the possibility of updating district rules. - Councilmember Meyer inquired about whether the MOU fully delegates SHPD responsibilities; DPP responded that it supplements rather than replaces SHPD review, but that separate agreements for delegation are being explored. - No public testimony was offered. - Outcome: The committee amended the resolution to CD1 and reported it out for adoption, with no objections. Councilmember noted interest in staffing updates and potential rule revisions. Agenda Item 3: Informational Briefing – DTS Active Transportation Monitoring Program - Daniel Alexander, Chief of Regional Planning Branch, presented an overview of the program, which uses 31 permanent counters (pedestrian, bicycle, and scooter) and short-term counts at 60 locations on a three-year cycle. The data is publicly available via a website and informs planning, project evaluation, and safety analysis. - Councilmembers asked about maintenance (battery replacement every two years, low vandalism), technology (magnetic and heat sensors, no cameras), funding (supported by Oahu MPO), and integration with crash data and Vision Zero. - The committee requested that DTS share the list of planned short-term count locations and continue to explore policy or design recommendations from the data. - No public testimony was offered. - Outcome: The briefing was received; no action was taken. Public Comments & Testimony - No remote or in-person testimony was offered on any agenda item. Key Outcomes - Agenda Item 1 (Easements): Reported out for council approval. - Agenda Item 2 (Resolution 25-332): Amended to CD1 and reported out for adoption. - Agenda Item 3 (ATMP briefing): Briefing received; no action taken.

Committee on Housing, Homelessness, and Parks Meeting - January 14, 2026\n\nThe Committee on Housing, Homelessness, and Parks convened on January 14, 2026 (note: the transcript states the meeting occurred on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 2:32 p.m.; the metadata provided indicates January 14). Committee Vice Chair Tolba, Council Members Cordero and Nishimoto were present; Councilmember Wire was excused initially but later welcomed. The meeting was conducted remotely via interactive conference technology. Two agenda items were considered: acceptance of a gift to the city and an amendment to exceptional tree regulations. Both items were approved without objection.\n\n Resolution 25-330: Gift Acceptance\n- Proposal: Accepting a gift valued at $3,274.51 from Bradley Nakamura, including one high back traditional bench, preparations at the grounds, building of forms, pouring cement, and a bronze plaque inscribed \"Donated by the family of BJ and Brady Nakamura\" to be placed at Puuloa Beach Park.\n- Discussion: Director Laura Thielen of the Department of Parks and Recreation presented the item. No questions from council members.\n- Public Testimony: None.\n- Outcome: The chair recommended reporting out for adoption. No objections; unanimously approved.\n\n Bill 66 CD1: Exceptional Trees Amendment\n- Proposal: Amending Revised Ordinances of Honolulu 2021, Section 40-8.7 relating to the city register's exceptional trees. The bill corrects the classification of monkeypod trees back to their proper genus and adds six additional trees to the exceptional tree list.\n- Discussion: Director Laura Thielen explained that previous efforts had placed all trees under a different classification, and proponents advocated for reclassification. The department supports getting the classification right.\n- Public Testimony: None.\n- Outcome: The chair recommended reporting out for passage on third reading. No objections; unanimously ordered.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- Resolution 25-330 was reported out for adoption.\n- Bill 66 (2025) CD1 was reported out for passage on third reading.\n- Both items passed without objections or reservations.

On January 13, 2026, the Committee on Energy, Environment and Sustainability, chaired by Councilmember Wire, met to discuss food security and nutrition programs for Kupuna (older adults) on Oahu. The meeting was called to order at 1:02 p.m. and included presentations from the Elderly Affairs Division (EAD), YMCA of Honolulu, and Lanakila Pacific. The discussion focused on the growing need, program impacts, funding challenges, and opportunities for collaboration. Discussion Items - Presentation by Derek Arioshi (EAD Administrator): Provided an overview of Kupuna food access needs. Key statistics: 23% of Oahu's population is Kupuna; 43% struggle to make ends meet; 19% live alone; 36% have a disability; 28% speak a language other than English. EAD administers home-delivered meals (138,000 meals, $1.6M in state/federal funds) and congregate dining (52,000 meals, $1.2M federal funding, 736 participants annually). Eligibility for home-delivered meals is strict (homebound, unable to perform 2+ activities of daily living). Congregate sites require operation 5 days/week per federal policy, limiting access in rural areas. By 2040, one-third of Hawaii's population will be Kupuna. - Presentation by Leanne Landrith (YMCA of Honolulu): Described the YMCA's Kupuna Food and Fun Program serving 575 unduplicated Kupuna annually across 6 locations. Since 2022, the program has provided over 210,000 nutritious meals and 11,000+ hours of wellness activities. Outcomes: 97% of participants reported more energy; 96% reported a more positive outlook. The program has a waitlist due to lack of sustained funding. Current funding sources (EAD, federal earmark, private foundation, Act 310) expire at the end of 2026, creating a funding cliff. The YMCA requested advocacy for long-term state funding. - Presentation by Melissa Gibo and Laurie Lau (Lanakila Pacific): Lanakila Pacific, celebrating 87 years, operates the largest island-wide home-delivered meals program. In 2025, they provided 308,744 meals, with nearly 100,000 supported by EAD funding. 70% of recipients are on Medicaid. They highlighted a virtual congregate dining model for homebound seniors, digital literacy classes, and the role of 215+ weekly volunteers. They described the impact on individuals like Sharon (stroke survivor) and Daniel (wheelchair-bound, paying for 24/7 care). They emphasized the need for flexible funding to support food-as-medicine initiatives and emergency response (e.g., COVID, government shutdowns). - Councilmember Questions and Discussion: - Councilmember Tupola noted new federal rural health funding ($190M released) and urged EAD to seek those funds. He offered to write letters of support for eligible proposals. He also raised concerns about food waste and lack of coordination among multiple food distribution efforts in Waianae, suggesting a data-driven approach to target resources effectively. He offered to convene a meeting of stakeholders to improve coordination and tracking. - Councilmember Toba asked about workforce challenges in elder care. Administrator Arioshi acknowledged workforce shortages but noted emerging educational pathways and a cultural shift toward valuing Kupuna care. He also highlighted risks from federal funding uncertainty due to administrative changes. - Councilmember Wire inquired about current funding sources. Arioshi explained that EAD funding is split between federal Older Americans Act funds and state Kupuna Care funds, with Honolulu receiving about 75% of the state allocation due to its population share. Providers noted that they have diversified funding (Medicaid, foundations, state grants) but face sustainability challenges. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The meeting was primarily informational. - Councilmember Tupola committed to convening a meeting of food distribution stakeholders in Waianae to improve coordination and data collection, with EAD support. - The committee acknowledged the need for sustained funding for congregate dining and home-delivered meal programs, and Councilmember Tupola offered to advocate for state and federal funding opportunities. - EAD and providers were encouraged to pursue rural health funding and other grants, with Councilmember support. - The meeting was adjourned without further action.

On January 13, 2026, the Honolulu City Council Committee on Budget, chaired by Councilmember Okimoto, convened to discuss and vote on eight agenda items including resolutions for fund transfers, fare increases, and bills on transparency and budget execution. The meeting featured testimony from department directors, public speakers, and councilmembers, with several items passing after amendments and debate. Public Comments & Testimony - Resolution 25-331 (Hazard Pay Transfer): Donald Sakamoto, a public transit advocate, testified in support, emphasizing the importance of hazard pay for bus and handi-van operators who faced COVID-19 risks. - Bill 54 (Public Transit Fares): Multiple speakers testified: - Donald Sakamoto (support with concerns) urged gradual fare increases and improved payment technology. - Samantha Lara (oppose) argued that fare increases burden low-income families and undermine climate and safety goals. - Jolie Tokusato (Unite Here Local 5) opposed the increase, stating it hurts working families and urged the city to seek revenue from corporations instead. - Jarek Olivia (hotel worker) opposed, calling the increase unaffordable for commuters. - Angela Melody Young (CARES) supported the fare increase but requested additional assistance for extremely low-income individuals. - Bill 63 (Property Taxation): Suzanne Young (Honolulu Board of Realtors) opposed key provisions, stating they would not incentivize participation, and recommended changes to AMI thresholds, dedication periods, and rollback penalties. - Bill 76 (Government Transparency): Jolie Tokusato and Angela Melody Young testified in support, praising enhanced transparency. - Bill 77 (Budget Execution): Angela Melody Young testified in support, noting technology can improve coordination and reduce errors. Discussion Items - Resolution 25-237: Deputy Director Jennifer Walter (DEM) explained the transfer to fund planner positions for federally supported programs. No questions or testimony. Approved. - Resolution 25-331: Director Andy Kawano (BFS) described the recharacterization of $34.4 million for hazard pay to remaining unions (firefighters, bus drivers). Councilmembers discussed union status and prior appropriations. Approved. - Resolution 26-5: Director Kawano detailed the allocation of $15.1 million for salary adjustments and vacation payouts. Councilmember DeSantos Tam questioned the patrol division’s $12.85 million, noting discrepancies with the 5% raise. Councilmember Waters requested future detail in transmittal letters. Amended to CD1 and approved. - Bill 54 (CD1): Director Roger Morton (DTS) presented the fare increase bill, which raises adult monthly passes, cash fares, and handi-van fares, but not senior/disabled/low-income fares. Councilmember DeSantos Tam opposed, citing Title VI analysis showing disparate impact on low-income riders. Chair Okimoto and Vice Chair Nishimoto supported the compromise. Amended to CD2 and approved. - Bill 55 (CD1): Director Kawano and Director Kevin Ajay (Housing) supported the bill, with BFS requesting fees be deposited into the general fund. No public testimony. Amended to CD2 (with further amendment on deposits) and approved. - Bill 63 (CD1): Introducer Councilmember Kia Aina explained the bill updates the property dedication program to 100% AMI for five-year rentals. The Honolulu Board of Realtors recommended higher AMI, shorter dedication, and owner-occupant exemptions. BFS opposed those changes. After discussion, the CD1 was reported out without amendment. - Bill 76: Introducer Council Chair Waters described the bill requiring an open checkbook data portal by January 2027. Director Kawano and Chief Data Officer Kira Chokum expressed willingness to collaborate but opposed codification, suggesting a joint project. Councilmembers agreed to keep the bill alive for further discussion. Reported out for second reading. - Bill 77: Introducers Councilmember Nishimoto and DeSantos Tam argued the bill gives the council tools to fulfill its budget oversight role. Director Kawano opposed, citing separation of powers and confidentiality concerns. Chief Data Officer Chokum suggested a data mart approach. Councilmember Nishimoto expressed willingness to work with BFS. Reported out for second reading with reservations from Councilmember Kia Aina. Key Outcomes - Resolution 25-237: Approved unanimously. - Resolution 25-331: Approved unanimously. - Resolution 26-5: Amended to CD1 (OCS 2026-0013) and approved. - Bill 54 (2025): Amended to CD2 (OCS 2025-0954) and approved for passage on third reading. - Bill 55 (2025): Amended to CD2 (OCS 2025-0941) with a further amendment to Section 5 (removing special account reference) and approved for passage on third reading. - Bill 63 (2025): CD1 reported out for passage on third reading without amendment. - Bill 76 (2025): Reported out for second reading and scheduling of a public hearing. - Bill 77 (2025): Reported out for second reading and scheduling of a public hearing, with Councilmember Kia Aina’s reservations noted.

The Honolulu City Council convened its final regular meeting of 2025 on December 3, 2025, beginning with an invocation and message of Aloha by broadcast personality Billy V. The council considered a wide-ranging agenda including confirmation of department heads and commissioners, passage of ordinances on taxicabs, shared streets, budget transparency, and police scanner access, and resolutions addressing immigrant rights and a legal settlement. The meeting featured extensive public testimony from students, advocates, and community members. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously adopted a series of committee reports confirming appointments to city boards and commissions: Jody Lebed (Board of Review), Edmund KB Hyun (Liquor Commission), Dr. Bradley Romine (Climate Change Commission), Jeffrey Laopola (Board of Water Supply), Catherine Chang and Carla Hauser (Board of Parks and Recreation), Mark Anthony Clemente (Planning Commission), Blakely Parsons and Gary Yabuta (Police Commission), Geison Ontai (Fire Commission), and Ananduabar (Emergency Management Commission). Several testimony sessions included questions from the public, but all appointments were approved. - Multiple gifts to the city were accepted, including equipment, consulting services, and travel, primarily from the Honolulu Zoological Society and private donors, with no objections. Public Comments & Testimony - Police Scanner Access (Bill 46): Matthew Piacente (Hawaii News Now) testified in strong support, stating that real-time scanner access is the first step in responsible journalism and essential for public safety alerts. John Dutzmann and Tim Gary opposed the bill, arguing it unfairly restricts access to established media outlets while excluding social media and the general public, calling it a violation of the First Amendment. - Immigrant Rights Resolution (25-301): Over a dozen University of Hawaii students and community advocates testified in support, citing widespread fear in immigrant communities, the importance of due process, and the need for trust in city services. Testifiers noted that 266,147 immigrants live in Hawaii (19.4% non-U.S. born) and that domestic violence victims especially need safe access to services. Tim Gary testified in opposition, arguing that undocumented criminals pose a threat and that legal immigration should be the standard. - Legal Settlement (ILACR 381): Natalie Wassa asked for the settlement cost; Chulan Lambert opposed the settlement, stating it would set a precedent and avoid a justifiable court fight. - Taxicab Bill (42): Ryan Naka of Charlie’s Taxi testified in strong support, noting that fare adjustments were needed to keep drivers earning a living wage and competing with ride-sharing companies. - On various agenda items, frequent testifier Shelby "Pikachu" Billionaire raised concerns about conflicts of interest, federal issues, West-side problems, and systemic corruption. Discussion Items - Confirmation of Kevin D. AJ as Director of Housing and Land Management: Councilmember Okimoto disclosed that a senior administration official had linked the release of district appropriations to her vote, calling it a threat to council independence. She also cited AJ's lack of development experience. Councilmember Cordero noted past difficulties but welcomed a fresh start. Councilmember Tupola defended AJ, highlighting progress on using city land for affordable housing (2500 units in pipeline). AJ confirmed ongoing work on a data inventory of city properties. Vote: 8-0 with reservations from Okimoto and Cordero. - Budget Reporting Bills (64 & 65): The administration opposed, arguing current reports are sufficient. Councilmember Tupola noted that existing reports are over 10,000 pages and difficult to analyze. Councilmember Del Santos Tam suggested the council use its own staff for analysis. Both bills passed 8-0, with reservations from Del Santos Tam, Tulba, and others. - Police Scanner Access (Bill 46): After testimony, the council passed the bill with reservations from Councilmember Okimoto, who was concerned that the 25-year continuous publication requirement could limit future access for newer media outlets. Bill 46 requires HPD to provide real-time scanner access to local media with at least 25 years of continuous operation. - Immigrant Rights Resolution (25-301): Councilmember Wire, the introducer, expressed disappointment that resolved clauses were stripped but accepted assurances from the administration that it already complies. Councilmember Del Santos Tam criticized the removal of enforcement language, noting inconsistency with the council's approach in other bills. Councilmember Tulba voted with reservations, emphasizing respect for lawful immigration processes. Resolution adopted 8-0 with Tulba's reservation. - Legal Settlement (ILACR 381): Corporation counsel Dana Viola explained that the $1 million settlement for Certified Construction Inc. was reasonable because involved officers could face murder prosecution without statute of limitations, making them unable to testify. The council adopted with reservations from five members. Key Outcomes - Kevin D. AJ confirmed as Director of Housing and Land Management (8-0 with reservations). - Bills passed third reading: Bill 42 (taxicab regulations), Bill 46 (police scanner access), Bill 55 (multifamily rental fees), Bill 63 (real property taxation), Bill 64 and 65 (budget reporting), Bill 66 (exceptional trees), Bill 70 (dog parks in new developments), Bill 71 (shared streets). - Resolution 25-301 affirmed constitutional due process rights for all residents regardless of immigration status. - Multiple board and commission appointments confirmed. - Gifts valued over $80,000 accepted from the Honolulu Zoological Society and others. - Meeting adjourned to Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 10 a.m.