Public Meetings - Honolulu, Hawaii

The Honolulu City Council Committee on Zoning and Planning met on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 9:04 AM in the council chamber. The meeting was chaired by Councilmember Kia Aina, with Vice Chair Waters, Councilmembers Topola, Dos Santos Tam, and Cordero present. Councilmember Okimoto was excused. The committee considered nine agenda items, including resolutions and bills related to land use permits, transit-oriented development (TOD) plans, zone changes, and pedestrian mall designations. Extensive public testimony was heard, particularly on Resolution 26-171 (1588 Ala Moana project). All items were advanced to the full council for adoption or passage. Public Comments & Testimony - Resolution 26-183 (Kahuku shoreline project): No public testimony was offered. - Resolution 26-207 (Pohu Kaina Commons amendment): No public testimony was offered. - Bill 37, 38, 39 (East Kapalay TOD): No public testimony was offered on Bill 37. On Bill 38, Dalen Cam (Oahu Transit Riders) urged support. On Bill 39, Councilmember Topola noted community concerns from a prior neighborhood board meeting but explained the bill conforms existing zoning to the TOD plan. - Bill 42 (Haleiwa corporation yard): No public testimony was offered. - Bill 43 (Wayalua rezone): No public testimony was offered. - Bill 48 (pedestrian malls): Dylan Armstrong (individual capacity) supported the bill as a public safety and economic development measure. - Resolution 26-171 (1588 Ala Moana): Over 30 individuals testified. Supporters included representatives from local businesses, unions (Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters, Operating Engineers Local 3), and community members who cited job creation (6,000 construction jobs, 800 permanent jobs), affordable housing (69 affordable rental units at 80% AMI), economic benefits, and alignment with the Ala Moana TOD plan. Opponents, primarily from Unite Here Local 5, argued that the affordable housing is not truly affordable for local workers (80% AMI is $85,000/year, with rents around $2,300/month for a one-bedroom), that the project benefits tourists over locals, and that the developer should provide more community benefits. Some also raised concerns about traffic, parking, and pedestrian safety. Discussion Items - Resolution 26-183: The committee amended the resolution to CD1 (including applicant acknowledgments of sea level rise risks and pervious surface requirements) and reported it out for adoption without objection. - Resolution 26-207: The committee amended the resolution to CD1 (correcting a typo in Howard Hughes’ name, adding a warehouse clause explaining a 60-month extension due to financing uncertainty, and extending the construction deadline to June 7, 2032). The Hawaii Housing Finance Development Corporation (HHFDC) supported the 60-month extension. The resolution was reported out for adoption. - Bill 37, 38, 39 (East Kapalay TOD): After discussion on Bill 38 (including concerns about parking standards, connectivity, and school sites), the committee reported all three bills out for passage on third reading. Councilmember Topola clarified that the zone changes conform to the TOD plan and that benefits such as schools and parks come from unilateral agreements, not this legislation. - Bill 42 (Haleiwa corporation yard): The committee reported the CD1 out for passage on third reading without objection. - Bill 43 (Wayalua rezone): The committee reported the CD1 out for passage on third reading. Vice Chair Waters noted the surrounding area also has non-conforming units and suggested DPP consider rezoning the broader area in the future. - Bill 48 (pedestrian malls): The committee amended the bill to CD1 (expanding Fort Street Mall to include Chaplin Lane, adding bicycle requirements) and reported it out for passage on third reading. The Department of Transportation Services supported the bill. - Resolution 26-171 (1588 Ala Moana): The committee engaged in extensive discussion. DPP presented the project’s community benefits: 69 affordable rental units (34% of total residential units), $5 million for complete streets improvements in the Ala Moana TOD area, $1.5 million for urban forestry, a new bus stop or adoption of an existing stop, a bike share station, and widened sidewalks. The developer (Kobayashi Group) emphasized the project’s alignment with the TOD plan, which allows up to 400-foot height and FAR of 7.0. The project has a FAR of 6.17 and includes 294 hotel units, 136 market-rate condos, 20,000 sq ft of commercial space, and 1,229 parking spaces. DPP staff explained that the monetary benefits were negotiated to mitigate viewshed impacts on Ala Moana Beach Park and to fund streetscape improvements. Committee members expressed support, noting the project’s consistency with the TOD plan, the generous community benefits package, and the need for affordable housing and economic activity. Vice Chair Waters and others encouraged the developer to consider using unionized labor (Unite Here Local 5) for hotel staffing. The committee amended the resolution (deleting a driveway design condition and making technical amendments) and reported out the CD1 for adoption. Key Outcomes - Resolution 26-183 (Kahuku project): Amended to CD1 and reported out for adoption. - Resolution 26-207 (Pohu Kaina Commons): Amended to CD1 (60-month extension) and reported out for adoption. - Bill 37 (state land use boundary amendment – East Kapalay): Reported out for passage on third reading. - Bill 38 (LUO amendments – TOD Special District): Reported out for passage on third reading. - Bill 39 (rezoning – East Kapalay): Reported out for passage on third reading. - Bill 42 (state land use boundary amendment – Haleiwa): Reported out for passage on third reading. - Bill 43 (rezoning – Wayalua): Reported out for passage on third reading. - Bill 48 (pedestrian malls): Amended to CD1 and reported out for passage on third reading. - Resolution 26-171 (1588 Ala Moana): Amended to CD1 (with minor changes) and reported out for adoption. The meeting adjourned at approximately 11:45 AM.

The Committee on Executive Management met in person to consider Resolution 26-210 (referred to as "Resolution 26-10" in one portion of the transcript), a proposed amendment to Council Rules restricting taxpayer-funded mass communications in the period immediately preceding an election. The meeting was called to order at 2:35 p.m. local time on Wednesday, September 23, 2026; the official meeting timestamp is 2026-09-24 00:31:04 UTC. The resolution is intended to draw a bright line between official constituent services and campaign activity. After testimony and discussion, the committee deferred the resolution. Public Comments & Testimony - Sandy Ma, Executive Director and Legal Counsel for the Honolulu Ethics Commission, testified on behalf of Ethics Commission staff; the Commission itself had not taken a formal position. She raised three concerns: (1) the resolution's threshold of 200 or fewer individuals is more restrictive than the federal standard of 500 or more pieces of mail; (2) the rule does not prohibit serial distribution, so a sender could send multiple mailings of 200 or fewer to circumvent the blackout; and (3) the City Clerk's office should be consulted so the 60-day blackout period is consistent with Hawaii's vote-by-mail ballot mailing schedule. Discussion Items - The Chair stated that Honolulu currently has no Council rule governing taxpayer-funded mass communications in an election year, while the state House of Representatives has long observed a 60-day blackout practice. The Chair acknowledged recent reporting on a constituent mailer but said the mailer was sent in compliance with the 60-day practice even though no written rule existed at the time. - Councilmember Nishimoto asked whether Ms. Ma's testimony was personal; Ms. Ma confirmed she spoke on behalf of Ethics Commission staff rather than the Commission. - Councilmember Okimoto noted the threshold was referred to inconsistently as "200 or less" versus "200 or more" and asked for clarification. Ms. Ma explained that existing Council Rule 37 permits distribution to 200 or fewer individuals and that her comment concerned the scope relative to the federal 500-piece standard. - Ms. Ma confirmed the state House of Representatives adopted a blackout period from June 3, 2026 through November 4, 2026, per a February 12, 2026 memo from Speaker Nadine K. Nakamura, and that the state Senate does not appear to have a blackout period. - Councilmember Okimoto floated the idea of using the candidate filing deadline (e.g., June 3) as a bright-line cutoff instead of counting back from Election Day. Ms. Ma declined to opine on election or filing deadlines, deferring to the City Clerk's office. - Councilmember Kia Aina (also transcribed as "Keanu" and "Kia Ayn" in the record) suggested inviting the City Clerk's office to a future meeting to provide input, since the Clerk's office oversees the vote-by-mail schedule. - Members also discussed limiting the restriction to members who are actually running for election or re-election. Key Outcomes - The committee agreed to defer Resolution 26-210 to allow time to resolve unanswered questions, including the serial-distribution loophole, the appropriate threshold, the timing of the blackout relative to vote-by-mail ballot distribution, and consultation with the City Clerk's office. - A future meeting will include input from the City Clerk's office. - No other agenda items were considered; the meeting was adjourned.

The Committee on Government Efficiency and Customer Services of the Honolulu City Council met remotely on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 1:03 PM (HST) to receive a system update from the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) on the HL Build permitting platform. The meeting was chaired by Chair Desatus Tam, with Council Members Cordero, Nishimoto, Kia Aina, and Wire (who arrived later) in attendance. Director Don Takeuchi Apuna of DPP presented the update, joined by her staff. No public testimony was offered. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were on the agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - No registered or in-person testifiers were present. The chair closed testimony after confirming none. Discussion Items - HL Build Launch and Progress: Director Apuna reported that HL Build, launched a year ago, replaced a legacy system used for roughly three decades. Despite a difficult transition, the system has stabilized, and the department has moved from implementation to management. Registered users increased from roughly 3,500 in September 2025 to over 11,000 today (a 222% increase). DPP staff responded to more than 15,000 emails and 5,300 phone calls, and more than 100 user acceptance testers were involved. - Permit Volume and Processing Times: Building permit applications increased by approximately 34% (from 7,744 to 10,386) in the year following launch, while permits issued rose by about 5.5% (from 6,525 to 6,887). For residential permits issued in 2026, average review time was 191 days (70 days with jurisdictions, 121 with applicants). Commercial permits averaged 229 days (122 days with jurisdictions, 107 with applicants). Total application-to-issuance time averaged 218 days for residential and 469 days for commercial, though the commercial figure includes legacy paper permits, some dating back to 1999, which skew the average. Average review cycles were 3.3 for residential and 3.7 for commercial. - CivCheck AI: DPP reported early results from CivCheck AI, used for residential permits: review cycles down 58%, corrections down 67%, review time down 55%, and an average of 40.5 review days saved (based on a sample of 19 CivCheck permits vs. 17 non-CivCheck projects). CivCheck was made mandatory for residential permits on September 1, 2026, and commercial rollout is tentatively set for November 1, 2026. The system received national recognition through the 2026 Public Sector AI 50. - Backlog Management: DPP identified 9,252 building permits in the system: over 4,300 genuinely active, over 2,000 already in issuance, about 2,450 idle in review for more than a year, and 420 with no electronic review record. DPP is purging inactive permits, having cut the idle list by about 1,500 in recent weeks, using authority under ROH 18 to cancel permits idle for over a year. - Funding and Future Plans: DPP invested approximately $7.5 million in the system, much from federal recovery funds. They were awarded an $850,000 HUD grant (with only $71,000 in city matching funds) to expand AI-assisted review to commercial housing, incorporate flood review, strengthen analytics, and independently evaluate results. DPP is developing a transparent fee-review framework, though no fee changes are proposed. They also plan to digitize legacy microfiche and paper documents using OCR technology. - Legacy Data and Integrations: The legacy POSSE system remains accessible, with an archival system linked to HL Build. DPP continues integrating other agencies (e.g., HFD, Board of Water Supply) into review processes, but noted some resistance. - Staffing and Review Times: Electrical review times were identified as a bottleneck, averaging about 41 days, largely due to a shortage of electrical engineers. A third-party contract (funded by FRF) that supplemented electrical reviews is expiring; DPP is exploring using lapsed funds to extend it. - Council Questions and Concerns: Council members raised concerns about the growing backlog (applications up 34% vs. permits up 5%), the delay in CivCheck commercial rollout, the accuracy of permit time data, and the need for faster permit issuance. Councilmember Kia Aina discussed a $240,000 budget allocation for a loan forgiveness program to recruit 20 engineers, and urged DPP to work with the Castle Foundation and UH Department of Engineering. Councilmember Wire asked about simplifying processes and benchmarking against other jurisdictions like Boston and Fort Worth. The chair noted that DPP's own administrative rules set maximum first-pass review times (e.g., 28 days for projects under $1 million, 42 days for projects under $10 million), which are currently being violated for electrical reviews. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or resolutions were taken. The meeting was informational. - DPP committed to providing a report on Kerasoft semi-annual user satisfaction surveys (which have not yet been received). - DPP will share the draft structure of the loan forgiveness program for engineers with Councilmember Kia Aina. - DPP will continue backlog cleanup and aim to reduce idle permits to near zero within a month. - The commercial CivCheck rollout is expected by November 1, 2026, and DPP will report back on progress. - The committee received the update and encouraged DPP to continue pursuing external funding and improving permitting processes. The meeting was adjourned at 2:06 PM (HST).

Infrastructure, Transportation, and Technology Committee Meeting - September 23, 2026\n\nThe Committee on Infrastructure, Transportation, and Technology met on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 9:31 a.m. to consider two agenda items: Resolution 226-209 authorizing a three-year rental agreement with Ms. Kalahiva for property acquired via eminent domain, and an informational briefing on issues with private streets and roads within the City and County of Honolulu. The committee received presentations from the Department of Transportation Services (DTS), Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM), Honolulu Police Department (HPD), and Corporation Counsel. After discussion, Resolution 226-209 was recommended for adoption. No public testimony was received.\n\n Discussion Items\n\n1. Resolution 226-209 – Rental Agreement with Ms. Kalahiva\nAdministrator Young Lee of the Department of Budget and Fiscal Services (BFS) presented the resolution, which authorizes a three-year rental agreement for property acquired via eminent domain. The property has been under lease since approximately 2018. The agreement is structured as annual terms with a month-to-month renewal after the first year, subject to reappraisal. The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) will serve as contract administrator. Members questioned the history of the lease, the condition of the residence (deemed safe by DDC inspection), and the rationale for a three-year term. No public testimony was offered. The chair recommended reporting the resolution out for adoption.\n\n2. Informational Briefing – Private Streets and Roads\nDeputy Director Hongli of DTS presented on the complexity of private roads, noting that over 1,000 lane miles (approximately 26% of Oahu’s roadway network) are privately owned. Key issues include ownership determination, maintenance responsibility, traffic code applicability, and enforcement. DTS installs and maintains certain signs (stop, no parking) on private roads for safety. DFM Director Albano clarified that city maintenance on private roads is limited to surface repair (pothole patching) per ROH 14-17.1 and does not extend to subsurface defects. HPD Major Soria presented on enforcement criteria: under HRS 46-16, HPD can enforce traffic laws on private roads that have been continuously used by the public for at least six months. On such roads, HPD can tow vehicles blocking emergency access, investigate collisions, and issue citations. However, routine parking enforcement, HOA covenant violations, and civil disputes are not handled. Abandoned vehicle ordinances apply only if the road qualifies as public access.\n\nMembers raised numerous concerns: the lack of a clear process for city acquisition of private roads (Councilmember Tupola), obstruction of city-installed signs by private trees (Vice Chair Okimoto), the definition of “public roadway” in existing ordinances (Councilmember DeSantis Tam), and the ability of private owners to install unauthorized traffic signs (Chair Cordero). Councilmember Tupola advocated for establishing triggers (e.g., public safety, high usage) for city takeover. Councilmember DeSantis Tam noted that derelict vehicles may be treated as litter under ROH 13-4.4, potentially allowing removal regardless of ownership. Corporation Counsel advised that enforcement depends on specific ordinance language. DTS stated that unauthorized private signs would be removed, but tree obstruction remains difficult without property access.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- Resolution 226-209: Reported out of committee for adoption by the full council with no objections.\n- Private Streets Briefing: No formal action was taken. Members expressed interest in clarifying ordinances related to private road enforcement, maintenance, and acquisition. The chair suggested reviewing outdated ordinances and encouraged continued coordination among DTS, DFM, DDC, and HPD. No specific timeline for follow-up legislation was set.

The Honolulu City Council Committee on Energy, Environment and Sustainability convened on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, in a hybrid meeting held in the Council Chamber and remotely by interactive conference technology pursuant to Section 92-3.7, Hawaii Revised Statutes. Committee Chair Wire presided, joined by Councilmember Tolba and Vice Chair Dos Santos Tam in the chamber, with Councilmember Tupola participating remotely by video conference. The committee took up three agenda items: an informational briefing on the Oahu Climate Action Plan update, Resolution 26208 accepting a gift of travel expenses, and an informational briefing on the city's electrification of transportation initiatives. Public Comments & Testimony - One member of the public testified on the Climate Action Plan update, expressing strong support for the thoughtfulness with which the effort was conducted. The speaker, who was educated in science including climate science at the University of Hawaii, noted the document is very and properly heavy in mitigation efforts; the testimony concluded before the speaker could elaborate further on adaptation. - No members of the public registered or offered remote or in-person testimony on Resolution 26208 or the electrification of transportation briefing. Discussion Items Informational Briefing: Oahu Climate Action Plan Update (Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency - CCSR) - CCSR presented the Climate Action Plan update, identifying 26 priority actions to implement over the next five years and outlining the foundation, methodologies, and analysis supporting the recommended strategies. CCSR recommended that if the city continues reducing emissions today, it can help limit the severity and cost of conditions Oahu must face while adapting to tomorrow, including lowering household costs, reducing city operation fees and costs, and improving clean air. - CCSR noted a smaller handful of the actions are no longer relevant and that robust priorities need to move forward, with regular updates to the council so adjustments can be made through bills, resolutions, and committee conversations. Two of the 26 actions were highlighted as climate mitigation strategies that pair good information with municipal action for the next five years while paying attention to community needs. - Vice Chair Dos Santos Tam referenced the five major action areas, with the fifth being waste, and asked about agency leads and co-partners, whether a table listing these existed in the plan, and the annual reporting timeline. CCSR confirmed it will provide reports on both the first and updated Climate Action Plans simultaneously, due by the end of April each year, and will come to the council early before that due date to show data progress. - Councilmember Tupola asked which of the 26 priority actions have departmental buy-in, noting it would be useful to know which ones other departments support so the council could come behind them with support and funding. CCSR acknowledged bi-monthly coordinated meetings with departments, resource constraints including staffing, and the need to connect on CCSR meeting participation, where 28 people representing different agencies discuss topics in depth. CCSR committed to being relentless in ensuring plans and policies move forward across departments, not only through CCSR. - Councilmember Tupola referenced the YNE readiness review, a partnership being conducted in collaboration with the University of Hawaii at Manoa and the SOIST school, and asked about a point person. CCSR clarified it is part of the steering committee and project team rather than the lead agency. - Discussion addressed the city's climate resiliency fund: CCSR noted current limitations on eligible uses of CRF funds, including whether grant making and support for infrastructure are allowed, and that Proposal 224, if it advances from the Charter Commission, would authorize CCSR to help move the climate resiliency fund through grant funding. The council is still considering which ballot question would be referenced for next steps. - Staffing was discussed, including the lack of any full-time or grant-funded staff for the zero waste program, the Oahu Good Food Program position being in process, and whether the One Water position discussed in the prior budget cycle would be contemplated in the upcoming proposed budget or require a conversation next year. CCSR noted the city has been using conventional procurement and purchasing mechanisms such as RFPs and RFQ's to manage procurement law and BFS rules. Resolution 26208 - Gift of Travel Expenses for Indigenous People's Climate Change Working Group - CCSR presented Resolution 26208, accepting a gift of travel-related expenses valued at $1,304.04 to the city from the Haskell Foundation for a representative from the Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency to attend the Indigenous People's Climate Change Working Group in-person workshop from September 22 to 25 in Kansas City, Missouri. A CCSR staff member participates in the working group on behalf of CCSR and was invited to the in-person convening. - No committee questions were raised, no public testimony was offered in person or online, and testimony was closed with no additional discussion. Informational Briefing: City Electrification of Transportation Initiatives (CCSR) - CCSR presented the briefing as part of National Drive Electric Month, which was described as the last two months of September and first two weeks of October, with the presentation available online as Mayor's Message 120-2026. CCSR coordinates initiatives across the city, including under the city's energy savings performance contract led by the Department of Design and Construction (DDC). - CCSR developed internal tools tied to the city's annual sustainability report that allow departments to see which vehicles they use, past usage, and estimated future usage so they are comfortable purchasing an EV that meets their needs. The city prefers to have chargers in place before purchasing vehicles because departments are risk-averse and have expressed concerns about both initial capital costs and operating costs, including the risk of losing funds if not encumbered in time. - The city installed six public chargers and piloted two EVs with a range of 60 miles. In 2020 and 2021, additional chargers were installed under the energy savings performance contract and other CIP projects, such as the bus-ready line at Middle Street. - Last year, over 50,000 vehicles were registered on Oahu, with fewer than two charging ports available for every hundred vehicles. HICO estimates the city will need more than 2,000 public chargers by 2030 to support demand. Encouraging public transit was highlighted as one way to decrease the number of chargers needed. - The city's public charging network will double in size and add seven new locations in the coming months and years. The fleet modernization working group, established by the mayor's renewable fleet policy, has supported these efforts. The city is exploring migrating to different vendors for charger management software so it is not tied to only one vendor, with the software used to manage the network, control power, track usage, and potentially collect revenue. - Councilmember Tupola asked about roles and whether the city is prioritizing EVs or having discussions about other alternative fuels. Discussion also addressed the resiliency fund's usefulness for action items, with CCSR noting the federal agency review occurred in August and approvals on the EPA's part had already occurred. Key Outcomes - The committee received and discussed the informational briefings on the Oahu Climate Action Plan update and the city's electrification of transportation initiatives. - Resolution 26208 was taken up with no committee questions and no public testimony; no opposition was raised, and the committee proceeded to the next agenda item. - CCSR committed to providing reports on both the first and updated Climate Action Plans by the end of April annually and to appearing before the council early with progress data. - CCSR agreed to connect with Councilmember Tupola regarding CCSR meeting attendance and to identify which priority actions have departmental support, along with accompanying funding needs for proposed policies. - No formal roll-call votes were captured in the available transcript; the meeting was adjourned after discussion concluded on all three agenda items.

The Committee on Budget, chaired by Councilmember Okamoro, convened on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 10:02 a.m. to consider two resolutions authorizing intra-departmental fund transfers for the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) and the Honolulu Fire Department (HFD). Council Vice Chair Nishimoto and Council Members Cordero and Kia Aina were present; Council Chair Waters and Council Member Tolba were excused. No public testimony was offered on either item. Resolution 26-202: HPD Fingerprint System Replacement - Proposal: Transfer of $300,000 from HPD Support Services (current expenses) to Equipment (capital expenditure) for Fiscal Year 2027 to replace the legacy Idemia fingerprinting system. - Testimony: Captain Arnold Seguccio (HPD Records and Identification Division) presented the request, noting the system includes nine machines with a typical 10-year lifespan. The current system was purchased in FY2018-2019 (seven years old). Due to rapid advancements in AI and software, the system has become obsolete sooner than expected. Captain Seguccio stated that going forward, HPD will evaluate the system at the six-year mark to anticipate future upgrades. - Discussion: Councilmember Cordero inquired about the coordination between the software vendor (Idemia) and HPD’s internal divisions. Captain Seguccio acknowledged that the support/maintenance contract and hardware management are handled by separate divisions within Idemia, but HPD is working to improve communication to prevent similar issues. He confirmed there are no plans to merge the divisions internally. - Outcome: The committee voted to report Resolution 26-202 out for adoption with no objections or reservations. Resolution 26-203: HFD FEMA Grant Match - Proposal: Transfer of $16,624 from the General Fund (Provision for Grants, Partnerships, and Security) to HFD Fire Operations to match a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG). - Testimony: Battalion Chief Jason Torres (HFD Grants Manager) explained the grant funds a fire dynamics program including a “train the trainer” component and equipment. This training addresses the final step in HFD’s live fire training program. A specialized company (not FEMA) will conduct the initial week-long training for a small cadre in October 2026; after completion, HFD will sustain the training in-house. - Discussion: Councilmembers asked about the relationship with FEMA and the scope of training. Chief Torres clarified FEMA provides the grant but not the training personnel; the training is a one-time event for a limited number of instructors, after which the program will be embedded into HFD’s regular live fire curriculum. - Outcome: The committee voted to report Resolution 26-203 out for adoption with no objections or reservations. Adjournment With no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

The Honolulu City Council held its regular meeting on September 9, 2026, beginning at approximately 10 a.m. The meeting included opening ceremonies (Pledge of Allegiance and a message by storyteller Lopaka Kapanui), followed by consideration of a lengthy agenda encompassing appointments, first-reading bills, second-reading bills, third-reading bills, and resolutions. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to public testimony, with multiple community members speaking on land use, housing, parks, and animal control issues. The Council took action on over 20 agenda items, approving most with unanimous votes or recorded reservations. Consent Calendar - [No separate consent calendar was used; all items were taken up individually or in grouped motions.] Public Comments & Testimony - Ava Puhi Chanel Kalauli Robinson (self-identified as a lineal heir and plaintiff in Red Hill litigation) testified on multiple items, opposing Bill 55 (Waikiki rezoning), Bill 37 (Honouliuli land use boundary amendment), Bill 39 (Kapulei/Honouliuli rezoning), Bill 42 (Koolauloa land use amendment), Bill 43 (Paalaa Kai rezoning), and Resolution 26-71 (sale of surplus city property). She argued that these actions affect royal patents and require consultation with Native Hawaiian lineal descendants under the Supreme Court’s Kapaakai analysis. She also spoke on Resolution 26-169 (gift to ENV) requesting consultation for projects at Honouliuli. - Pikachu Billionaire (District 9) testified in opposition to Bill 55 (Waikiki rezoning), raising concerns about homelessness and cultural respect. He opposed Bill 52 (streets/sidewalks) and expressed support for most other bills but noted procedural concerns regarding allodial titles and royal patents. - Kelvin Ole Konihiki testified in opposition to Bill 37, Bill 42, and Bill 43, calling the land use changes “illegal corruption” and arguing that agricultural land must be preserved for food sovereignty. - Stephanie Hilton (public testimony via phone) testified on Bill 33 (parks funds) requesting funding for security cameras and a social worker pilot program, and on Bill 16 (dog control) recounting an August 23, 2026 dog attack at airport campgrounds. She urged stronger enforcement and support for homeless pet owners. - Stephanie Kendrick (Hawaiian Humane Society) testified in strong support of Bill 16, stating the ordinance provides needed deterrents. - Susan Collins (Burden B Hawaii Animal Sanctuary) testified in support of Bill 16, emphasizing accountability for dog owners. - Dylan Armstrong testified in support of Bill 30 (parks activation), Bill 16, and Resolution 26-189 (sustainable road practices), and offered general support for park improvements. - Kalena Cookshe and Dominique Bonifacio (Honolulu Youth Commission) testified in strong support of Resolution 26-189, urging adoption of recycled ash in road construction to reduce landfill waste. - Konoilani Perry (president of All Island Records) testified on CR246 (global settlement of towing claims), requesting her company’s name be removed as they were unaware of any legal proceedings. - Ernie Lau (Board of Water Supply) supported the reappointment of Naalehu Anthony and spoke on Resolution 26-193 (Red Hill PFAS contamination), urging more aggressive monitoring and testing. Discussion Items - Appointment Confirmations: The Council adopted Resolution 26-172 CD1 confirming Naalehu Anthony to the Board of Water Supply (vote: 9-0). Resolution 26-196 (Gary Okimoto to Civil Service Commission) was referred to committee. Resolution 26-197 was canceled. - First Reading Bills (Bills 55 & 56): Bills 55 (rezone Waikiki property) and 56 (relation to corporation counsel) passed first reading. Public testimony opposed Bill 55 due to Native Hawaiian cultural and land rights concerns. Bill 56 had brief testimony questioning authority hierarchy. - Second Reading Bills: - Bill 54 (parking): Passed 9-0 without testimony. - Bill 52 (streets, sidewalks, malls): Passed 9-0 (Councilmembers Tolba, Tupola, Wire recorded reservations). Testimony raised concerns about enforcement capacity and homeless impacts. Council discussion centered on fine increases and enforcement gaps. - Bill 37 (land use boundary – Honouliuli): Passed 9-0 after public opposition from Kalauli Robinson and others citing royal patent and lineal heir rights. - Bill 38 (TOD special district expansion): Passed 9-0 (Councilmembers Tolba, Tupola, Wire reserved). Councilmember Tupola expressed strong reservations about lack of community engagement and full conversion of AG lands; Councilmember Kia Aina urged DPP to meet with Tupola. Council asked DPP about timeline for remaining TOD plans – target is to finish all station rezoning by 2031. - Bill 39 (rezoning Kapulei/Honouliuli): Passed 9-0 after testimony opposing changes affecting ancestral lands. - Bill 42 (land use – Koolauloa): Passed 8-0-1 (one absent). Testifiers opposed. Councilmember Wire inquired about generator and fuel storage improvements at the joint base yard; Councilmember Kia Aina clarified the amendment brings the existing corporation yard into state land use compliance. - Bill 43 (rezoning Paalaa Kai): Passed 8-0-1 after testimony against reducing agricultural land. - Third Reading Bills: - Bill 33 (parks funds): Passed 9-0. Councilmember Tupola explained the bill creates dedicated funds for parks and botanical gardens, allowing reinvestment of revenues. - Bill 50 (land conservation fund amendments): Passed 9-0 without testimony. - Bill 30 (public parks activation): Passed 9-0 after testifier support. Councilmember Tupola noted the bill targets underutilized parks and will not displace existing recreation. - Bill 31 (cultural sites in public parks): Passed 8-0-1 (Councilmember Wire excused). Testifier Kalauli Robinson urged broader definition of cultural practitioner qualifications. Councilmember Tupola highlighted two sites: Ku Ilioloa Heiau and Mauna Lahilahi, supported by community stewards. - Bill 32 (park fees flexibility): Passed 8-0-1 (Councilmember Wire excused) with amendment FD1 removing camping fees from director authority. Councilmember Tupola emphasized safeguards and support. - Bill 16 (dog control): Passed 9-0. Testimony from Hilton, Kendrick, Collins, and Armstrong in support; Kalauli Robinson urged empathy for homeless dog owners. Councilmember Okimoto highlighted the two-year effort with Department of Customer Services and Hawaiian Humane Society. - Other Resolutions: - Collective bargaining items (CR218/Res. 26-166): Passed 9-0. - Fund transfers for DCS and DTS (CR219/Res. 26-170, CR220/Res. 26-181): Passed without objection. - Gift acceptance (Res. 26-169 for ENV, Res. 26-167 for bench at Aina Moana, Res. 26-174 for Kalihi Valley tennis court naming, and multiple bench/monetary gifts): All adopted with 9-0 or 8-0 votes. - Resolution 26-189 (sustainable road construction with recycled ash): Adopted 9-0 after youth commission testimony emphasizing landfill reduction. - Resolution 26-87 (safer pedestrian crossings at Kaelepulu Elementary): Adopted; Councilmember Kia Aina asked administration to follow up with nearby residents about mural placement. - Resolution 26-71 (sale of surplus city property): Adopted 9-0 after Kalauli Robinson’s opposition citing ancestral connection to Chocolate Beach/pond. - Sister city resolutions (Res. 26-184 with Cebu, Philippines; Res. 26-185 policy guidelines): Adopted 9-0. Councilmembers expressed support for meaningful economic and cultural ties. - Resolution 26-193 (Red Hill PFAS contamination): Adopted 9-0. Manager Lau and testifiers urged more aggressive Navy monitoring and expanded well network. - Resolution 26-198 (foreclosure action in Kaneohe): Adopted 9-0. Councilmember Kia Aina explained it was a last resort for a dilapidated property. - Resolution 26-150 (LUO amendment on large detached dwellings): Adopted 9-0 with reservations from Tupola, Wire, and Dosanto Tan concerning impacts on ADUs and non‑conforming status. Matter goes to Planning Commission. - Resolution 26-168 (SMA permit for Nanakuli commercial building): Adopted 9-0. - Resolution 26-188 (downzoning 10 acres in Kailua): Adopted 9-0 after explanation that DHHL deemed the site unsuitable for homesteading. - Committee Reports CR244, CR245, CR246, CR254: Adopted. Councilmember Tupola reserved on CR246 (global settlement of towing claims), citing inaccurate information presented about the contractor’s unpaid invoices. Councilmember Cordero reserved on CR245. Testifier Konoilani Perry raised concerns about her company being named in CR246; Council clarified the settlement bars future claims against both city and contractor. - Bill 48 (condemnation): Passed third reading 9-0 with amendment FD1. - Resolution 26-186 (gift of plumbing/drainage): Adopted 9-0 with amendment FD1. - Resolution 26-192 (gift for HFD K9 team): Adopted 9-0 without amendment. Key Outcomes - Confirmed Appointment: Naalehu Anthony to the Board of Water Supply (CR222/Res. 26-172 CD1). - Passed First Reading: Bill 55 (Waikiki rezoning) and Bill 56 (corporation counsel). - Passed Second Reading: Bill 54 (parking), Bill 52 (streets/sidewalks), Bill 37 (land use – Honouliuli), Bill 38 (TOD expansion), Bill 39 (Kapulei/Honouliuli rezoning), Bill 42 (Koolauloa), Bill 43 (Paalaa Kai). All passed with 8–9 yes votes; some members recorded reservations. - Passed Third Reading: Bill 33 (parks funds), Bill 50 (land conservation), Bill 30 (public parks), Bill 31 (cultural sites), Bill 32 (park fees flexibility), Bill 16 (dog control), Bill 48 (condemnation). - Adopted Resolutions: Over 20 resolutions, including collective bargaining, gift acceptances, sister city relationships, Red Hill contamination, sustainable roads, surplus property sale, and zoning amendments. - Referred Items: Resolution 26-196 (Gary Okimoto appointment) and Resolution 26-150 (LUO amendment) to committee/Planning Commission respectively. - Next Meeting: Adjourned to Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 10 a.m.

The City Council convened to recognize several individuals and organizations for their contributions to the community through the honorary certificate program. The meeting featured presentations honoring environmental stewardship, public service, literacy advocacy, athletic leadership, youth sports achievement, and botanical garden management. Ray Ivazian III – Environmental Leadership - Councilmember Talba presented the first certificate to Ray Ivazian III for outstanding environmental leadership, community service, and stewardship of Honolulu's parks, beaches, and oceans through the Adopt a Park program. - Ray Ivazian is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, teacher, scientist, engineer, inventor, and volunteer. In 2018, he founded SEED (Stimulating Education and Ecological Design) to educate about marine debris, microplastics, recycling, and environmental protection. - He was the first volunteer for the city's Adopt a Park program and now helps care for Kie Lagoon Beach Park, Neil S. Blazedale Park, and Kalama Beach Park. - He developed innovative tools to study and remove microplastics from the ocean. He is currently studying architecture at UH Manoa. Tyler Sugihara – Public Service Retirement - Councilmember (unnamed) recognized Tyler Sugihara for 39 years and two months of public service, retiring as chief of the Division of Road Maintenance on June 1, 2026. - His career began with the State Department of Health in 1987 and continued with the city and county of Honolulu starting in 1995. - He created the Malama ʻo Kaina Community Volunteer Program, giving residents opportunities to maintain public spaces. He also volunteered with the American Public Works Association, Hawaii chapter, and assisted fundraising for the Boys and Girls Club. - In 2025, he was named DFM's manager of the year. Read to Me International – 30th Anniversary - Councilmember Dosanto Stan presented a certificate to Read to Me International on its 30th anniversary, founded in 1996 by former First Lady Lynn Waihee and Rotary Club of Honolulu Sunrise. - The organization promotes reading aloud to children for at least 10 minutes daily, serving an average of 10,500 individuals annually. - Executive Director Dana Barnes leads core initiatives including the RTM 10 parent coaching program, family literacy events, the Kupuna Keiki Pen Pal program, and the Ted Sakai Hoala Reading Program for incarcerated parents. - The Council expressed appreciation for empowering families and fostering lifelong love of reading. Donald “Spud” Botello – Life and Legacy - Councilmembers Nishimoto, Cordero, and Wire jointly recognized Coach Don Spud Botello for over six decades of dedication to Hawaii's youth, athletics, and education. - He was a standout athlete at Roosevelt High School and the University of Hawaii, part of the 1955 team that defeated Nebraska 6-0. He held a record for a 95-yard touchdown pass in 1957. - He served as assistant coach at UH (1960–1964), head coach/athletic director at Damien Memorial High School (1965–1974), then athletic director and head coach at Mid-Pacific Institute, building the Pac-5 football program. He captured Oahu Prep Bowl championships in 1982 and 1985. - He served as ILH executive director from 2003 to 2015. He was inducted into the University of Hawaii Sports Circle of Honor in 2000. - Councilmember Nishimoto shared personal memories as a former player, emphasizing Coach Botello's impact on youth. Pearl City Little League Senior Baseball Team – 2026 World Series Champions - Councilmember Okimoto recognized the District 8 Pearl City Little League Senior Baseball Team for winning the 2026 Senior League World Series championship. - The team advanced as West Region champions on July 25, 2026, then competed in the World Series (August 1–8) in Easley, South Carolina. After losing their opening game 4–1, they rallied to win the U.S. semifinal 3–2 in walk-off fashion and the U.S. championship 12–0 against Delaware, televised on ESPN Plus. - The team roster, manager Tai Takahashi, and coaches were acknowledged. Jocelyn “Josh” Sand – Retirement as Director of Honolulu Botanical Gardens - Councilmember Kiaina honored Jocelyn Sand on her retirement after more than 36 years of city service. She began as a plant propagator in 1990 and served as director. - She earned a master's in public administration from UH Manoa in 1994 and developed international partnerships to preserve rare and native plants. - Under her leadership, the five botanical gardens welcomed a historic 887,168 visitors in her final year, achieved ArbNet Level 3 accreditation, and advanced long-range plans for Hoʻomālahelu Botanical Garden and a new community garden at ʻEwa Beach. - Her daughter Miranda also works in horticulture. Key Outcomes - Honorary certificates were awarded to all six recipients. - The Council directed its appreciation and congratulated each honoree.

The Committee on Zoning and Planning, chaired by Councilmember Kia Aina, convened on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at 9:02 a.m. to consider nine agenda items. The meeting included resolutions for extensions of time, zoning amendments, special management area permits, and bills related to transit-oriented development. Several items were approved with amendments, and public testimony was heard on multiple items. Consent Calendar - No items were placed on the consent calendar. All agenda items were considered individually. Public Comments & Testimony - Resolution 26-171 (Extension of Time): A representative from Unite Here Local Five testified in support of the extension, stating it would allow more time for community discussion and developer engagement. - Resolution 26-188 (Calaheo Elementary School Rezone): David Pound, a 23-year resident of Calaheo Hillside, testified in support of Resolution 26-188, emphasizing community concerns about expansive soil conditions. He requested that any future P2 zoning carry binding conditions limiting use to passive open space and that geotechnical reports be released to the community. - Bills 37, 38, 39 (East Kapalay TOD): - Jesse Suki, Deputy Superintendent of Operations for the Hawaii Department of Education, testified on Bill 38, requesting that the proposed high school parcel be excluded from the TOD special district boundary and that coordination language be added. He noted that planning funding for the high school had been appropriated. - Sam Kim from the Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters testified in strong support of all three bills, praising the committee's work to advance TOD. - Leslie Keating, a Kapalay resident, testified in support of Bills 38 and 39 but raised concerns about the Mokauea extension, water table issues at Hono Uliuli, and height bonuses. She advocated for taller buildings near transit stations and underground utilities. - Bill 42 (Lai Corporation Yard): No public testimony was offered. - Bill 43 (Waialua Rezone): No public testimony was offered. Discussion Items - Resolution 26-171 (Extension of Time for Resolution 26-171): The committee approved a 90-day extension of time for Resolution 26-171, as requested by the applicant's agent via Miscellaneous Communication 344-2026. The Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) supported the extension. No objections were raised. - Resolution 26-150 (Large Detached Dwellings): Introduced by Council Chair Waters, this resolution directs DPP to process a council-initiated LUO amendment to include garage square footage above 400 square feet in FAR calculations. Chair Waters explained that large garages are often used to circumvent FAR rules and later converted to bedrooms. DPP expressed concerns but supported the resolution. Councilmember Okimoto noted reservations, and the resolution was reported out for adoption with those reservations. - Resolution 26-188 (Calaheo Elementary School Downzoning): Following DHHL's declination due to expansive soil, the resolution directs DPP to process a zone change from R-7.5 to P-2 General Preservation on the 10.038-acre city-owned parcel. DPP confirmed the process would include public comment and a unilateral agreement with conditions. The chair recommended adoption, and it was so ordered. - Resolution 26-168 (SMA Major Permit for Nanakouli Commercial Building): The project involves a two-story commercial building with a caretaker unit on a 19,737 sq ft lot at 87-1818 Farrington Highway. The chair proposed a verbal amendment to condition B2 requiring a construction management plan and an updated traffic assessment report. The applicant's agent, Jim Hayes, accepted the conditions. The amendment was adopted, and the resolution as amended (CD1) was reported out for adoption. - Bills 37, 38, 39 (East Kapalay TOD): These three bills implement the East Kapalay Neighborhood TOD Plan. - Bill 37 reclassifies 14.83 acres from agricultural to urban district. - Bill 38 amends the LUO to add the three station areas (Kualaka'i, Keone'ī, Hono Uliuli) to the TOD Special District, including height exemptions and streamlined permit requirements. - Bill 39 rezones 1,381 acres around the stations, primarily to apartment and business mixed-use districts, with a CD1 version correcting acreage and exhibits. DPP presented extensive public participation background. Councilmember Cordero asked about design cohesion across Farrington Highway and parking maximums. Councilmember Tupola raised concerns about the DOE high school parcel, interim uses for school sites, and the naming of the area (preferring Hono Uliuli over East Kapole). The chair committed DPP to meet with DOE and HECO before the next hearing. All three bills were reported out for second reading and public hearing, with Bill 39 amended to CD1. - Bill 42 (Lai Corporation Yard State Land Use Boundary Amendment): This bill reclassifies 4.188 acres of the Lai Corporation Yard from agricultural to urban district to legalize existing and planned uses. The CD1 version added conditions for archaeological survey, fuel pump relocation, and finished floor elevation. DPP supported the CD1. The bill was amended to CD1 and reported out for second reading. - Bill 43 (Waialua Rezone from Country to R-5): The bill rezones a 1.429-acre portion of 669A Waialua Beach Road to bring eight existing dwelling units into conformance and remove non-conforming status. A unilateral agreement prohibits subdivision. DPP supported the CD1, which clarified the address and lot area. Councilmember Tupola questioned the relationship between the non-subdivision condition and possible future CPR (condominium property regime) sales. The agent clarified CPR would only be for future family ownership. The bill was amended to CD1 and reported out for second reading. Key Outcomes - Resolution 26-171: Granted a 90-day extension of time (unanimous, no objections). - Resolution 26-150: Reported out for adoption with Councilmember Okimoto's reservations noted. - Resolution 26-188: Reported out for adoption (unanimous). - Resolution 26-168: Amended by verbal amendment to condition B2, then reported out as CD1 for adoption (unanimous). - Bill 37 (2026): Reported out for second reading and public hearing (unanimous). - Bill 38 (2026): Reported out for second reading and public hearing (unanimous). DPP to meet with DOE and HECO before next hearing. - Bill 39 (2026): Amended to CD1, then reported out for second reading and public hearing (unanimous). - Bill 42 (2026): Amended to CD1, then reported out for second reading and public hearing (unanimous). - Bill 43 (2026): Amended to CD1, then reported out for second reading and public hearing (unanimous).