Public Meetings - Honolulu, Hawaii

The Committee on Energy, Environment and Sustainability met on April 28, 2026, at 1:03 PM in a remote format under Section 92-3.7, HRS. Items discussed included the acceptance of a travel gift from the World Health Organization, an update on the Clean Streams program, and an update on emergency and disaster monitoring systems. The meeting adjourned after covering the addendum agenda item. Consent Calendar - Resolution 26-76 accepting a gift of travel and related expenses valued at $4,000 from the World Health Organization for the executive director of the Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency (CCSR) to attend the 2025 WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine in New Delhi, India, December 14–21. Dr. Kaloha Fox, executive director of CCSR, explained that the summit would focus on integrating indigenous knowledge into local public health mechanisms in the context of climate change. The resolution was reported out for adoption with no objections. Public Comments & Testimony - Informational Briefing – Clean Streams Program: Raquel Chu testified in support of reinstating a regular stream and ditch maintenance schedule (summer and pre/post-winter, plus as needed). She expressed concerns that private homeowners are often unaware of their maintenance responsibilities and suggested that consistent city maintenance is needed to support compliance. - Informational Briefing – Emergency and Disaster Monitoring Systems: Raquel Chu testified again, emphasizing that her community is still in recovery and lacks faith in current preparedness. She urged that the city maintain manual monitoring even with new technology, highlighted the need for more gauges in mountains and streams, and called for a structured protocol between city and state for reservoir and stream monitoring. Discussion Items - Clean Streams Program Update: Director Jean Albano (Department of Facility Maintenance, DFM) presented the program, which originally aimed to educate private owners about their environmental stewardship. He outlined city responsibilities (permitted stream maintenance with heavy equipment, non-permitted manual work, and DEM-authorized emergency actions) and challenges, including difficulty obtaining right of entry, liability when using heavy equipment, and the need for a multi-agency approach to watershed management. Councilmembers discussed the need for a schedule, better public information, and consistent enforcement. The city has used the ordinance to compel private maintenance only once. Councilmember Dos Santos Tam raised the issue of unclear ownership for streams that were privately owned a century ago, with owners now unknown. Several councilmembers supported using technology (e.g., drones) and collaborating with state and federal agencies. Director Albano committed to providing a timeline for a concrete plan on stream maintenance. - Emergency and Disaster Monitoring Systems Update: Director Randall Collins (DEM) reported that the FY25 Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) funding of about $6 million (with $1 million allocated for this project) is on hold due to litigation on the mainland. The project aims to leverage AI for hazard detection (flooding, wildfire) by integrating existing infrastructure such as traffic cameras, flood gauges, and NOAA cameras. Collins noted that the project will involve public-private partners and the city’s Chief Data Officer. He highlighted that DEM has made operational changes, including a reporting system that yielded 385 reports from police officers during the last storm. Councilmembers inquired about inter-agency coordination, placement of sensors on non-city property, and the need to maintain manual capabilities. Collins confirmed that coordination with state and federal partners is strong and that earlier EOC activations are now the norm. Key Outcomes - Resolution 26-76 was reported out for adoption with no discussion or objections. - The Clean Streams program update was received as an informational briefing; Director Albano committed to updating the stream maintenance schedule on the DFM website and exploring a multi-agency watershed management approach. - The emergency monitoring update was received; Director Collins will continue to pursue federal funding and keep the council informed. The project remains in the planning/development phase pending release of UASI funds. - No formal votes were taken on the informational items.

The Budget Committee of the Honolulu City Council met on April 28, 2026, at 9:04 AM HST to consider a range of fiscal matters, including fund transfers, bill amendments, collective bargaining costs, property tax compromises, and committee reports. The meeting was chaired by Councilmember Okimoto, with Vice Chair Nishimoto and Council Members Cordero, Kia Aina, Talba, and Waters present. Most agenda items were approved, often with amendments, while one bill was postponed for technical adjustments. Public Comments & Testimony - Jason Liang (private citizen) testified in opposition to the salary commission's recommended 4.7% salary increase for council members and administration. He argued that the commission lacked transparency, failed to itemize justifications, and derived the increase unsupported by evidence. He requested the council vote down the increase. Discussion Items - Resolution 26-87 (Fund Transfer for Enterprise Services): Authorized up to $222,000 from the energy provision account to cover fuel and electricity shortages at Blaisdell Center and golf courses. Director Dita Holyfield explained that full venue operations after COVID closures, increased bookings, and drought/Kona Low storms led to overages. Solar panel installation is expected to help future baselines. The resolution was amended to a CD1 and approved. - Resolution 26-84 (Fund Transfer for DDC Vehicle Acquisitions): Authorized $35,000 from highway fund to purchase two vehicles for the Civil Division, replacing units over 20 years old. Director Haku Millens noted the vehicles are essential for inspectors during disasters. Approved without amendment. - Bill 8 (2026) (Fire Plans Review Fund): Proposed to create a new fund for fire plan review fees. Director Andy Kawano identified technical issues: the old fund needed to be repealed, and the new fund should be renamed and effective July 1, 2027 (FY28) to allow proper budgeting. Battalion Chief Pao Chi Wang supported the bill but concurred with the delay. The committee postponed action to work with departments on amendments. - Resolution 26-83 (Collective Bargaining – Fire Fighters Unit 11): Approved a four-year cost package totaling $53,219,672 for salary adjustments and $3,231,182 for employer health benefits for the Hawaii Fire Fighters Association. Amended to CD1 and approved. - Resolution 26-85 (Fund Transfer for HFD Arbitration Award): Authorized $3,419,093 from salary adjustment provisions to fund retroactive pay and overtime for uniformed personnel from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. Approved. - Bill 20 (2026) (Rounding of Cash Payments): Proposed to round cash transactions to the nearest nickel due to a shortage of pennies. Director Kawano explained the rounding method accounts for taxes in certain cases. Council members expressed concerns about complexity and potential disadvantage to cash-paying consumers. The bill was reported out for second reading and public hearing. - Resolution 26-86 (Property Tax Compromise for Nohona Hale): Approved a one-time compromise of $324,079.74 in taxes, penalties, and interest to $6,579.22, covering only the commercial portion of the affordable rental housing project. Director Kawano supported the compromise to prevent conversion to market-rate units. Discussion highlighted disparities between corporate and individual relief, with members urging similar consideration for homeowners who miss exemption deadlines. Approved. - Resolution 26-88 (Fund Transfer for DEM): Authorized $150,000 for overtime costs from the Department of Emergency Management due to storm response. Director Randall Collins stated the funds cover past overtime. Approved. - Resolution 26-94 (Fund Transfer for EMS): Authorized up to $1,200,000 for overtime and incentive pay for 250–275 uniformed personnel due to the Kona Low storms and a collective bargaining agreement. Amended to CD1 and approved. - Resolution 26-93 (Fund Transfer for Parks Water Costs): Authorized $1,300,000 from recreation services savings to cover water bill shortfall for over 200 parks and facilities. Amended to CD1 and approved. - Council Communication 90 (Salary Commission Review): The committee considered a draft report on the Salary Commission’s 2021–2025 recommendations. After public testimony and member comments about sustainability, the report was approved for scheduling a public hearing and adoption. - Council Communication 91 (Real Property Tax Boards Review): The committee considered a draft report on the three real property tax boards of review. Administrator Steve Takara noted vacancies and a new board member. The report was amended with a draft bill (OCS2026-0256) implementing recommendations on online hearings and board education. Approved for public hearing and adoption. Key Outcomes - Resolutions 26-87, 26-83, 26-94, and 26-93 were amended to CD1s and then approved. - Resolutions 26-84, 26-85, 26-86, and 26-88 were approved without amendments. - Bill 20 (2026) was reported out for second reading and public hearing. - Bill 8 (2026) was postponed to allow technical amendments with the Department of Budget and Fiscal Services and the Honolulu Fire Department. - Council Communication 90 and 91 were approved as amended for scheduling public hearings and adoption.

The Honolulu City Council convened on April 16, 2026, to consider a lengthy agenda including the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2027 operating and capital budgets, updates to flood hazard regulations, confirmation of board appointments, and multiple resolutions related to disaster recovery and gift acceptance. The meeting began with a message of aloha from Raquela Chu, Vice Chair of the North Shore Neighborhood Board, who emphasized community resilience and the need for authentic aloha in the aftermath of recent storms. Key outcomes included passage of the city's $4.85 billion operating budget (Bill 22) and $1.53 billion capital budget (Bill 23), both with amendments, and first reading approval of urgent flood map updates (Bill 34). Consent Calendar - Confirmation of Darien Chun to the Board of Water Supply (Resolution 26-61 CD1) – adopted unanimously with no objections. - Confirmation of David Britton to the Zoning Board of Appeals (Resolution 26-56 CD1) – adopted. - Review and evaluation of the Planning Commission (Committee Report 76-2026) – adopted. - Adoption of the 32nd Year Action Plan for CDBG, HOME, ESG, and Housing Trust Fund programs (Resolution 26-36 FD1) – adopted with amendment. - Transfer of funds for Honolulu Police Department (Resolution 26-55) – adopted. - Hazard pay transfer for Oahu Transit Services bus drivers (Resolution 26-74) – adopted. - Acceptance of multiple gifts: interpretive sign at Foster Botanical Gardens (Resolution 26-52), benches at Kapiolani Regional Park and Leahy Beach Park (Resolution 26-53), and travel expenses for council members and staff (Resolutions 26-69, 26-77, 26-79, 26-81, 26-82) – all adopted. - Special Management Area major permit for four dwelling units in Wailua (Resolution 26-43 CD1) – adopted. - Resolution encouraging private event security at parks (Resolution 26-64) – adopted, with reservations by Councilmember Okimoto. Public Comments & Testimony - Shelby Pikachu Billionaire (representing himself, often expressing positions as a community advocate): Opposed the real property tax rates (Resolution 26-62) because agricultural land tax rates ($8.50 per $1,000) are higher than residential ($3.50), stating it hurts taxpayers. Supported Bill 34 (flood hazard) but opposed the operating and capital budgets (Bills 22 and 23) due to insufficient emergency disaster relief (only $32.5 million) and lack of amendments addressing community needs. Also opposed HART budgets (Bills 26 and 27) and the legislative budget (Bill 28), objecting to $10,000 per council district for mailers. - Natalie Iwasa (private citizen): Opposed Resolution 26-62, arguing that residential class A rates are unfair to landlords who do not get the homeowner exemption, and criticized the city's homeowner exemption audit for requesting overly sensitive documents (tax returns) via email. Also opposed proposed salary increases of 4.71% for administration, stating it is higher than inflation and union agreements. Supported cutting Office of Economic Development funding. Questioned security of bus cameras. - Jonathan Fry (Vice President, SHOPO – State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers): Supported the operating budget amendments for HPD retention incentives (5-year retention bonus at 25 years, recruitment referral bonus, parking stipend for civilian staff), thanking the council for addressing vacancies. - Brian Mick (representing Disability and Communication Access Board): Supported Bill 22, urging restoration of CSD's walk-in services for disability parking permits and call center appointments, noting current wait times of 1–15 days for appointments. - Eddie Fujioka (former city paramedic): Testified that Honolulu's Emergency Operations Center (EOC) ranks 2 out of 5 nationally, lacks 24/7 staffing, redundant backup, and mobile cellular units. Urged funding for improvements. - Tim Gary (citizen): Opposed salary increases and criticized allowing rebuilding in flood zones. Supported Chair Waters' proposal for hurricane preparedness. - Raquela Chu (Vice Chair, North Shore Neighborhood Board): Supported OER's budget, highlighting effective partnerships in storm recovery. - Testifiers on Bill 8 (fire prevention): Shelby Billionaire expressed support for firefighter compensation. - Testifiers on Bill 28 (legislative budget): Natalie Iwasa opposed the $10,000 district allotment and lack of transparency on council vacancies and testimony submission delays to the Salary Commission. Shelby Billionaire opposed mailer spending, suggesting gift cards instead. Discussion Items - Real Property Tax Rates (Resolution 26-62): Councilmember Tupola noted the Real Property Tax Division offers remission for damaged properties and encouraged residents to apply. After discussion, the resolution was referred back to the Budget Committee. - Flood Hazard Regulations (Bill 34): Councilmember Kia Aina stressed urgency to update ROH Chapter 21A before June 10, 2026, to maintain FEMA program eligibility and avoid loss of federal disaster assistance. The bill passed first reading. - Fiscal Year 2027 Operating Budget (Bill 22 CD1): Councilmember Wire voted no, citing a 70% reduction in Office of Economic Revitalization (OER) positions, arguing OER is critical for disaster response and community support. Councilmember Tupola defended HPD amendments ($2.3 million) and noted OER should focus on strategy, not program administration. Director of Budget and Fiscal Services Andy Kawano explained that storm recovery costs for FY26 will be covered by department savings, a $7.5 million disaster provision, and possibly the fiscal stability fund as a last resort; no FY27 budget amendments for disaster recovery are planned due to lack of information. - Fiscal Year 2027 Capital Budget (Bill 23 CD1): Councilmember Tupola cut $30 million for a new landfill on the West Side, stating the land was not for sale and advocating for a task force on waste reduction. She also included $10 million for Villages of Kapolei (state-funded) and $3 million for a resilient shelter. Councilmember Kia Aina expressed reservations about the proposed acquisition of Kamehameha Schools land (Japan Institute in Hawaii Kai), opposing alienation of Aliʻi Trust lands and calling for better community engagement. - Transit-Oriented Development (Bill 21): Passed second reading with reservations. Councilmember Dosantos Tan proposed removing Section 5 (matching IPDT and PDT language), calling it a major policy change, not housekeeping. Councilmember Kia Aina promised to address concerns at the next zoning committee. - Legislative Budget (Bill 28 CD1): Councilmember Cordero defended the $10,000 per district allotment for mailers as necessary for outreach in urban districts. Councilmember Tupola noted mailers are expensive and rarely used. - Disaster Recovery & Emergency Management: Councilmembers expressed concerns about the adequacy of the $7.5 million disaster provision and the timeline for receiving firm cost estimates. Director Kawano stated the preliminary damage estimate of $50–$100 million is rough and will be refined over years. Key Outcomes - Resolutions Adopted: 26-61, 26-56, 26-36 (as amended), 26-55, 26-74, 26-52, 26-53, 26-64 (with reservation), 26-43, 26-69, 26-77 (as amended), 26-78 (as amended), 26-79, 26-81 (as amended), 26-82. - Bills Passed First Reading: Bill 34. - Bills Passed Second Reading: Bill 8, Bill 22 CD1 (8-1, Councilmember Wire no), Bill 23 CD1 (9-0 with reservation from Councilmember Kia Aina), Bill 24 (8-0, one excused), Bill 26 (9-0), Bill 27 (9-0), Bill 28 CD1 (8-0, one absent), Bill 21 (8-0, one absent, with multiple reservations). - Referrals: Resolution 26-62 referred back to Budget Committee. - Amendments Approved: Resolution 26-36 FD1 (updated action plan), Resolution 26-77 FD1 (amended travel details), Resolution 26-78 FD1 (amended transfer), Resolution 26-81 FD1 (amended travel details). - Council Rule Waived: 48-hour notice waived for resolutions with FD1 amendments. - Next Meeting: Adjourned to Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM. Notes on Public Participation The meeting allowed remote testimony. Several testifiers reported difficulties with the city's online testimony system (e.g., submissions not reaching commissioners). The council acknowledged these concerns and encouraged follow-up.

The meeting began with musical performances by the Royal Hawaiian Band, followed by the presentation of four honorary certificates recognizing individuals and organizations for their contributions to the community. No public comments, consent calendar items, or legislative decisions were made. Recognition of Hale Kīpa - Councilmember Toba presented an honorary certificate to Hale Kīpa, a nonprofit based in Waiʻanae that provides safety and stability for Hawaii's youth in crisis. The organization was founded in 1970 as a small emergency shelter and now operates a statewide network with 21 programs, serving over 1,100 youth annually. To date, Hale Kīpa has helped a total of 74,000 youth. The CEO and President, Venus Rosetti-Morderos, along with other leaders, were recognized. Recognition of 2025 OTS Bus Maintenance and Handy-Van Rodeo Winners - Councilmembers Cordero and Okimoto honored the winners of the annual Oahu Transit Services (OTS) rodeo. The competition, held on December 5, 2025, included 18 bus operators, 4 maintenance teams, and 8 handy-van operators. Top winners: Douglas Rego (Bus Operator, score 373/415), Keith Yanagi (Maintenance Team Captain, score 1,547.5/2,225), and Samuel Kaleohia (Handy-Van Operator, score 328/415). They will represent OTS at national competitions: the APTA International Bus Rodeo (May 2026, Salt Lake City) and the CTAA National Community Transportation Rodeo (May 2026, Omaha). The achievements of OTS at the 2025 APTA Rodeo were also noted: Douglas Rego placed second, the maintenance team won the Cummins Voyage Award, and the overall OTS team placed second. Recognition of Public Schools of Hawaii Foundation - Councilmember Delsanto's staff presented an honorary certificate to the Public Schools of Hawaii Foundation, founded in 1986, marking 40 years of service. Executive Director Ken Hiraki and trustee Quinn Ogawa attended. The foundation has awarded over $5 million in grants, funding programs such as Good Idea Grants, Education Innovation Grants, Design Thinking Boot Camps, and STEM initiatives. Recognition of Poʻokela Fellows Internship Program Graduating Class of 2026 - Council Chair Waters, Vice Chair Tupola, Councilmembers Okimoto, and Tupola honored the 2026 graduating class of the Poʻokela Fellows Internship Program. Launched in 2008, the program provides college students with hands-on experience in city government. Since inception, 370 college students have completed the program, and 30 are currently employed by the city. The 2026 class includes 16 students from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and Chaminade University. Councilmember Okimoto shared the story of Jack Wu, a former fellow who later became a mentor, demonstrating the program's impact. Key Outcomes - The City Council adopted honorary certificates for all four recipients, expressing congratulations and best wishes. - No formal votes or policy actions were taken.

The Committee on Zoning and Planning, chaired by Councilmember Kia Aina, met on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 9:01 a.m. Members present included Vice Chair Waters, Councilmember Cordero, Councilmember Okimoto, and Councilmember Tupola (participating remotely). The committee considered an appointment to the Zoning Board of Appeals, two bills, a resolution for a shoreline development permit, and a review of the Planning Commission. Key outcomes included approval of the appointment, deferral of a pedestrian mall bill, approval of a major shoreline permit with amendments, and advancement of a gray water reuse incentive bill. Public Comments & Testimony - Bill 48 (2025) – Pedestrian Malls: K. Cole McClellan, representing the Roman Catholic Church in Hawaii, expressed appreciation for downtown revitalization efforts and proposed amendments regarding loading/unloading rights for church functions and clarifying traffic flow. He noted openness to using rulemaking instead of frequent LUO amendments. The committee acknowledged the testimony. Discussion Items Agenda Item 1 – Appointment to Zoning Board of Appeals (Resolution 25-56, CD1) The committee considered the appointment of David Britton to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Initially, Mr. Britton was not present. The committee heard from Elizabeth Krieger of the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP), who supported the appointment. Vice Chair Waters questioned whether the appointee understood the role’s time commitment and whether quorum issues were addressed. The chair recommended amendment to CD1 (technical corrections) and reported it for adoption. The motion passed unanimously. Later in the meeting, after agenda item 6, Mr. Britton arrived and addressed the committee. He apologized for his tardiness due to an urgent client matter, described his real estate law background, and stated his commitment to independent decision-making. Vice Chair Waters emphasized the importance of the board’s independence and the need to address a backlog of appeals, particularly related to short-term rental enforcement. Mr. Britton’s comments were noted, but the appointment had already been approved. Agenda Item 3 (Heard before Item 2) – Bill 48 (2025) – Pedestrian Malls Councilmember Dosantis Tam introduced a CD1 that expands Fort Street Mall by approximately 150 feet to include Chaplin Lane (rather than creating a new mall) and updates bicycle regulations to encourage safe cycling. The Department of Transportation Services (Director Roger Morton) supported the approach but noted a technical ambiguity: state law defines vehicles to include bicycles, yet the ordinance allows bicycles 10 mph while vehicles are limited to 5 mph. The director requested a technical amendment. The chair recommended deferral to allow time to address the Catholic Church’s testimony and the director’s technical issue. The motion to postpone to a date determined by the chair passed unanimously. Agenda Item 2 – Resolution 26-43 – Special Management Area Major Permit (Libby Trust) The resolution authorizes demolition and construction on two shoreline lots in Wailua (68-631 and 68-623 Crozier Drive). Jim Hayes (Planning Solutions Inc.) presented the project, showing two single-family dwellings per lot, wastewater systems, and landscaping. He clarified that a requested verbal amendment applied to condition G1 (archaeological resources) rather than K1. After a brief recess, the chair accepted the verbal amendment. Councilmember Cordero asked about individual wastewater systems; Mr. Hayes explained leach fields. Councilmember Okimoto asked about recent storm impacts; Mr. Hayes stated the property is in a VE flood zone and was not adversely affected, and structures are sited to avoid erosion hazards. Vice Chair Waters asked about iwi kūpuna; Mr. Hayes confirmed willingness to adjust the pool location if remains were discovered. DPP supported the amended resolution. The committee adopted the CD1 with further amendment to G1 and reported it for adoption. Agenda Item 4 – Bill 21 (2026) – TOD Amendments (Gray Water Reuse) The bill adds gray water reuse systems as a permitted community benefit in Transit-Oriented Development projects, allowing developers to offset height/density bonuses. It also makes conforming amendments to align interim and final permit requirements. Elizabeth Krieger (DPP) supported the bill, noting that gray water reuse reduces demand on potable water in dense areas. Councilmember Cordero asked about the Planning Commission’s review; Krieger noted the commission had no amendments but discussed the conforming amendments. Vice Chair Waters expressed strong support but raised concerns about including affordable housing as a requirement for hotel components, questioning the rationale. Tim Strides (acting TOD Administrator) explained that the provision was carried over from previous council decisions to prevent developers from labeling units as hotels to avoid affordable housing obligations. Vice Chair Waters suggested revisiting this policy separately. Chair Kia Aina asked about state health rules for gray water safety and hazardous waste contamination; Krieger confirmed state regulations exist and will be further reviewed. The committee voted to report the bill out for passage on second reading and scheduling a public hearing. Agenda Item 5 – Council Communication 60 (2026) – Review of Planning Commission Pani Miyatoga III, Chair of the Planning Commission, presented the commission’s report recommending retention of the charter provision establishing the commission, but recommending amendment of ROH 22-3.5 to transfer rulemaking authority for subdivision/consolidation from the commission to the DPP director. He noted quorum issues have been resolved. Vice Chair Waters asked about meeting accommodations and advertising; Chair Miyatoga stated meetings are hybrid, held on the 6th floor of the Frank Fasi building, and advertised via DPP’s newsletter and newspaper. Councilmember Okimoto inquired about the number of meetings; the chair noted varied workloads from DPP. Chair Kia Aina highlighted conflicts between the charter and ROH, supporting the amendment. No public testimony was offered. The committee voted to report the committee report and attached resolution/bill out for scheduling a public hearing and adoption. Key Outcomes - Zoning Board of Appeals Appointment (Resolution 25-56, CD1): Approved and reported for adoption. Mr. Britton’s appointment was confirmed prior to his late arrival. - Bill 48 (2025) – Pedestrian Malls: Deferred to a future date determined by the chair to address technical issues and public testimony. - Resolution 26-43 – Shoreline Major Permit: Approved as amended (CD1 with verbal amendment to condition G1) and reported for adoption. - Bill 21 (2026) – Gray Water Reuse in TOD: Passed on second reading and scheduled for a public hearing. - Council Communication 60 – Planning Commission Review: Committee report and attached resolution/bill approved for scheduling of a public hearing and adoption. (The informational briefing on short-term rental enforcement, agenda item 6, was canceled.)

The Committee on Executive Management convened on April 1, 2026 to review the city's response to the unprecedented flooding caused by two Kona low storms on March 19-20, 2026. Council members, Mayor Blangiardi, Mayor Kawakami of Kauai, Managing Director Formby, and DEM Director Collins discussed timeline, chain of command, evacuation decisions, and next steps. Public testimony highlighted community resilience and areas for improvement. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Kaku (President, volunteer): Praised DEM and EOC operations as "level equal or better than the military." Emphasized civilian responsibility and noted that in Mokuleia, flood water came across fields, not streams. - Dottie Kelly Paddock (Haula resident): Described community CERT training with 200 trained volunteers. Noted flooding of 6-700 cesspools causing brown water. Expressed gratitude for CNHA assistance but said more help needed. - Preston Brewski Lewis (Wailua community member): Described limited communication in first 48 hours; community stepped up with equipment. Now in rebuilding stage needing materials (drywall, lumber). Suggested city use local contractors and subcontractors. - Evelyn Lane (Kahuku Senior Housing resident): Thankful for Director Collins' outreach. Advocated for more funding for emergency management prevention and mitigation. Questioned safety of dam and urged removal. - Jeffrey Cavales Jr. (former DOD, healthcare, DEM volunteer): Stressed need for better mitigation and preparation; cost of recovery vs. prevention. Suggested resilience hubs. - Michael Miller (ham radio volunteer for DEM): Described structured EOC operations and communication systems. Encouraged council to visit EOC to understand complexity. - Denise Antolini (PuPakea resident, neighborhood board member): Noted rain bombs will increase in frequency. Called for public voice in after-action report, update to Kayaka Bay watershed plan led by OCCSR, and coordinated testing for pollutants (air, water, soil). - Raquel Achew (Wailoa resident, neighborhood board vice chair): Expressed frustration with initial response delay. Emphasized need for collaboration on improvements, land use, and water management. - Tim Gary (unregistered, remote): Questioned reliability of National Weather Service, asked about future of rebuilding in flood zones, and urged personal preparedness. Discussion Items - Opening statements from Chair Waters, Council Members Wire, Tupola, Nishimoto stressed the need to understand timeline, chain of command, and improve coordination. - Mayor Blangiardi provided timeline: First Kona low (March 19-20) brought 15-30 inches of rain, saturated ground. Second Kona low on night of March 20 produced 10 inches in 3 hours, causing flash floods. No fatalities due to community rescues. 80% debris removal completed. - Mayor Kawakami offered continued assistance from Kauai. - Managing Director Formby described the structured incident action plan for recovery, including debris removal, damage assessment, community assistance centers, and housing. Noted that after-action report not yet completed. - DEM Director Collins explained chain of command: tactical level (incident commanders like HFD/HPD), multi-agency coordination (EOC), and policy level (mayor). Described activation of EOC at 11:00 PM on March 19 after National Weather Service flash flood warning. - Council Members questioned why evacuation notice was delayed compared to previous week's lower stream levels. Dr. Collins noted reliance on reservoir levels (85 ft trigger), but stream gauges not real-time. Community members were already trapped before evacuation order at 3:42 AM. - Council Member Tupola raised issues of communication gaps (inter, intra, external) and lack of clear point of contact. Proposed a tiered assessment for trapped individuals. - Council Member Okimoto questioned why same stream level (29 ft) triggered evacuation week prior but not in second storm. MD Formby invited council to visit EOC for better understanding. - Council Member Cordero asked about feasibility of lowering trigger metrics and overcoming bureaucracy to save people. Deputy Managing Director Jarram stated no structural issues; emphasized order amid chaos. - Council Member Kia Aina raised need for financial resource strategy, including disaster supplemental and reprogramming funds, and support for farmers. - Discussion on cleaning streams and using community resources was raised by Council Member Waters and supported by testifier Lewis. Key Outcomes - The committee will convene another hearing after the after-action report is completed to discuss lessons learned. - Mayor's team committed to improving communication and coordination, including educating council on virtual EOC. - City will continue debris removal (expected to be finished early next week) and transition to recovery mode seeking federal disaster declaration. - Council expressed intent to examine budget and mitigation funding to prevent future disasters. - Several council members and public advocated for updated watershed plans, stream cleaning, and resilience hubs. Note: No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational.

The Committee on Infrastructure, Transportation and Technology met on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 9:05 AM via remote and in-person conference, chaired by Councilmember Cordero. The primary agenda item was a presentation by Department of Housing and Land Management Director Kevin Alger on the city's redevelopment efforts for the Iwilei Center and the future Kūwili Skyline Station area. A previously scheduled item on pedestrian fatalities and road safety was canceled. Canceled Agenda Item - Item 1 – Pedestrian Fatalities and Road Safety: The item was canceled because Hawaii Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffin was called away to Waialua. No discussion occurred. Public Comments & Testimony - No registered or in-person testifiers were present. Chair Cordero called for testimony but received none. Discussion Items - Update on Iwilei Center and Kūwili Station Area Redevelopment: Director Kevin Alger presented a comprehensive update. Key points included: - The city acquired the Iwilei Center (approx. 4 acres) in January 2024, located 50-60 feet from the future Kūwili rail station. - The wider Kūwili station area (17-18 acres) is bounded by Dillingham Boulevard, North King Street, Iwilei Road, and Kūwili Street. The city and state together control approximately 70% of the land. - The site has historically been industrial and underserved. The city is working to acquire remaining private parcels (four under contract, one offer issued this week). - With a master-planned approach, the site could potentially accommodate up to 3,000 housing units. The Iwilei Center alone is expected to yield nearly 950 units (up from an earlier estimate of 750), developed by a team including EAH Housing and Cortech Development from Guam. - Funding secured: $2 million from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) TOD pilot grant (highest award among 10 awardees from 30 applications), $700,000 from the state Office of Planning and Sustainable Development, $250,000 from the Department of Planning and Permitting, and $75,000 from an EPA grant – totaling over $3 million for master planning and infrastructure studies. - A consulting team led by BDP Quadrangle, Nippon Koei, and SSF International was awarded in November 2025 to conduct the master planning and infrastructure analysis. - Challenges include FEMA flood map updates (effective June 2026) affecting a portion of the site, especially state-controlled land near the Liliha Civic Center, which will be in a regulatory floodway. The city is working on flood mitigation, including land raising and passive techniques like vertical parking. - Director Alger emphasized the collaborative effort involving over 50 individuals from city, state, and federal agencies, including the One Water team. - Councilmember DeSantos Tam (district representative) expressed strong support and asked about timelines for interim steps, TOD zoning acceleration (currently not expected until 2030-2031), and the need for tools like housing infrastructure bonds (TIF) currently under legislative consideration. He urged the city to clearly support the state constitutional amendment for TIF. - Councilmember Okimoto asked about massing models, the rationale for using international comparables (Tokyo, Vancouver), flood mitigation plans, and the process for securing grants. She requested a future presentation from the One Water group on infrastructure planning across TOD areas. - Chair Cordero inquired about infrastructure planning being holistic rather than project-by-project and noted the importance of learning from this effort for other TOD corridors. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or resolutions were taken. The presentation was informational. - Director Alger committed to returning within six months with a progress update on the master plan, including unit count, street layout, and utility costs. - Councilmember Okimoto requested that the One Water group be invited to a future committee meeting to discuss infrastructure planning citywide. - Councilmember DeSantos Tam announced a town hall meeting at 215 North King Street at 6 PM to discuss HART construction in the Iwilei area. - The meeting was adjourned after no further business.

The Committee on Housing, Homelessness, and Parks, chaired by Councilmember Tupola, met remotely on April 1, 2026, to discuss seven agenda items, including gift acceptances, park security, cultural garden restoration, farmers' markets, cultural site programs, park fees, and revolving funds. No public testimony was offered. The committee voted to adopt three resolutions and postponed four bills for further amendments. Consent Calendar - Resolution 26-52: Accepted a gift from NTP Holdings of an interpretive sign valued at $2,645 for Foster Botanical Garden, honoring Mary Foster. Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 26-53: Accepted a gift from William Byrley of two high-back recycled plastic benches with bronze plaques (valued at $5,380.79) for Kapiolani Regional Park and Leahy Beach Park. Adopted unanimously. Discussion Items - Resolution 26-64: Urged the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) to review security and safety requirements for park events. DPR Deputy Director Kehau Pu stated the department supports the intent but believes existing rules are sufficient, noting that security conditions are already imposed for large events. Chair Tupola (the resolution sponsor) explained the need for better oversight of private events (e.g., graduation parties) that can draw hundreds. Councilmember Wire asked about gender equity reviews for surf permits; Director Laura Thielen responded that after-event reports are required and monitored for compliance with applicant promises (e.g., gender, youth, kapuna criteria). Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 26-65: Urged the city to restore the Mauna Lahilahi Cultural Garden in Makaha. DPR supports the intent but recommends updating cultural assessments and formalizing community partnerships due to archaeological discoveries after the original EA and master plan. Chair Tupola noted the site’s history and potential as a botanical garden, and mentioned a budget item for a security wall. Adopted unanimously. - Bill 30 (Farmers' Markets in Parks): Amended proposed ordinance to allow farmers' markets as permitted uses. DPR Director Thielen requested amendments to limit markets to nonprofit organizations, exclude highly utilized parks (district, regional, athletic parks), and require compliance with administrative rules (e.g., off-duty police, portapotties). Discussion included ensuring markets sell only fresh farm produce (not prepared food) and avoiding competition with existing People's Open Markets. Councilmember Kiaina emphasized DPR discretion to deny unsuitable locations. The bill was amended to a CD1 and postponed to a date to be determined. - Bill 31 (Cultural Sites in Public Parks): Proposed establishing an Important Cultural Resource Area Program. DPR expressed concerns about lack of criteria for stewards and potential conflicts with existing programs. DPR requested deferral to form a working group with council, MOCA, and the Oahu Historic Preservation Commission to develop clear guidelines by end of fiscal year. The bill was postponed to a date to be determined. - Bill 32 (Fees for Parks, Recreational Facilities, and Botanical Gardens): Amended to a CD1 (technical changes by Councilmember Dos Santos Tam). DPR Director Thielen advocated for allowing entry fees (not just parking fees) at botanical gardens to capture tourist revenue, emphasizing the need for proactive asset management. Discussion covered exemptions for residents (kamaaina), administrative rulemaking process, and concerns about delegation of fee-setting authority. Councilmember Kiaina requested guardrails, noting fees should not burden local families. The bill was amended to CD1 and postponed to a date to be determined. - Bill 33 (Parks Maintenance and Botanical Gardens Revolving Funds): Amended to a CD1 (effective date moved to July 1, 2027). DPR supported companion funds to ensure fee revenues are used for their intended purposes. Director Thielen requested technical amendments to exclude existing concession agreements with DES, clarify that federal/state grants go to central funds, and allow flexibility on TAT (transient accommodations tax) allocation. Councilmember Cordero asked about coverage of street trees and partnerships. Councilmember Kiaina suggested removing the TAT allocation section to be considered separately. The bill was amended to CD1 and postponed to a date to be determined. Key Outcomes - Three resolutions (26-52, 26-53, 26-64, 26-65) were adopted unanimously. - Bills 30, 31, 32, and 33 were amended and postponed to future meetings. The committee chair noted that April's meeting will focus on housing, so park-related bills will return in May. - No public testimony was received on any agenda item.

The Committee on Energy, Environment and Sustainability convened on April 1, 2026, at 2:32 p.m. with Vice Chair Josantos TAM and Councilmember Tolva present (Committee member Tupula excused). The meeting covered two agenda items: the confirmation of Darien Chun to the Board of Water Supply and an informational briefing on the Department of Environmental Services' integrated plan. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 1 (Resolution 26-61): Erwin Kawata from the Board of Water Supply provided oral testimony in support of the appointment of Darien Chun. No other public testimony was offered. - Item 2 (Integrated Plan): No public testimony was provided. Discussion Items - Appointment of Darien Chun to Board of Water Supply: Chair introduced a hand-carried CD1 (OCS 2026-0192, March 31, 2026) amending the resolution to correct the term expiration date, remove reference to replacing Brian Inouye's seat, and make technical amendments. Mr. Chun introduced himself, describing his background in construction and development (Kewit, Gentry Homes, Delta Construction, Royal Contracting, Castle & Cook) and his experience with water source and storage projects. He expressed support for affordable housing and for bringing back college graduates to Hawaii, noting about 20,000 people leave the islands annually. Committee members expressed appreciation for his expertise and commitment. The resolution was amended to CD1 and passed out of committee unanimously. - Informational Briefing on Integrated Plan: Director Roger Babcock (Department of Environmental Services) presented the integrated planning framework, a EPA program to coordinate wastewater and stormwater compliance under Clean Water Act NPDS permits. He outlined six elements: understanding requirements, characterizing systems, connecting with stakeholders, developing alternatives, measuring outcomes, and adapting. Key drivers include maintaining affordable rates, meeting permit requirements, and addressing community priorities such as beach closures, urban runoff, flooding, and environmental justice. The city completed a feasibility study in 2024-2025 and is now conducting a full integrated planning study with stakeholder engagement (EPA, DOH, advisory group, public). Scheduled milestones: system characterization by summer 2026, prioritization by summer 2027, plan completion and acceptance by end of 2027, implementation starting 2028. Director Babcock noted challenges: wastewater sewer fees approaching EPA affordability criteria (2% of median household income), stormwater TMDL requirements (50% trash reduction by 2023, 100% by 2034), pending PFOS regulations, and costly injection well compliance for three treatment plants (Honouliuli, Kahuku, Waimanalo). He answered questions about Sand Island secondary treatment (on schedule for 2035), dieldrin at Kailua (estimated $750 million, target 2035, may be delayed), and cesspool pumping capacity (city pumps cesspools at low fee, private haulers provide most service). Regarding recent flood events, Director Babcock noted stormwater management intersects with water quality but emergency pumping (ponding) is handled by DFM, not ENV. The integrated plan will focus on regulated water quality issues rather than disaster preparedness. Key Outcomes - Resolution 26-61 (Appointment of Darien Chun): Unanimously passed out of committee as amended (CD1) with no objections or reservations. It will proceed to full council for adoption. - Integrated Plan Briefing: Received by committee. No formal action taken. Director Babcock emphasized the need for council support to prioritize projects and manage costs amid increasing regulatory requirements. The next public meeting is planned for fall 2026.