Public Meetings - Honolulu, Hawaii

The Honolulu City Council Committee on Budget, chaired by Councilmember Okamoto, met on Monday, March 30, 2026, to discuss and vote on several fiscal year 2026-2027 budget items, including the executive capital budget (Bill 23), HART operating and capital budgets, bond authorization, the legislative budget, and a resolution on property tax rates. The meeting occurred in the aftermath of severe Kona storms, which heavily influenced discussions on emergency management, shelter capacity, and disaster response needs. Bill 23 (2026) – Executive Capital Budget - The committee reviewed multiple amendments to the capital budget, including procurements for the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) such as a mobile crane and long reach excavator, which were accepted. - A proposed $1.5 million for pre-development planning for the Wayalua Sugar Mill Plantation Camp Project was discussed. Director Kawano noted that $3.5 million had already been invested since FY2022-2023 with little progress and that the developer had not responded. The site was also impacted by the recent Kona storms. The amendment remained under consideration. - Chair Waters proposed acquiring the Japan American Institute of Management Science property (6 acres) in Hawaii Kai, currently owned by Kamehameha Schools, to prevent a 400-foot tower and create a community hub. Councilmember Kia Aina expressed strong opposition to alienating Kamehameha Schools lands, while Chair Waters argued the community supported the idea. The amendment was included in the CD1, but Kia Aina voted against the bill for this reason. - Department of Transportation Services (DTS) projects: Committee accepted $200,000 for traffic engineering devices, $100,000 for traffic signals, and $500,000 for bus stop improvements. Director Morton noted 75% of DTS CIP is federally funded. Councilmember Cordero flagged discrepancies and requested future discussions on left-turn phases and pedestrian intervals. - Department of Emergency Management (DEM) shelter initiative: Councilmember Cordero proposed $3 million for an island‑wide shelter assessment and retrofitting. Director Collins requested deferral, citing lack of capacity (only 15 staff, 8 new positions in budget vs. 25 requested). Chair Waters and Vice Chair Tupola argued for immediate action, with Tupola sharing firsthand experiences of shelter failures during the Kona storms. The committee voted to retain the $3 million amendment. - Department of Design and Construction (DDC) projects: Multiple street and park improvements were accepted, including $5 million for Waikiki Beach sand restoration (noted as an operating cost, not CIP, by Director Millis). The fire hydrant project was deferred to BWS. - Sanitation: Director Babcock requested reinstatement of $30 million for the Oahu Sanitary Landfill land acquisition. Councilmember Tupola suggested redirecting funds to H‑Power improvements. The amendment to delete the project was accepted. Bill 26 (2026) – HART Operating Budget - No public testimony or discussion. The bill was reported out for second reading without objection. Bill 27 (2026) – HART Capital Budget - No public testimony or discussion. The bill was reported out for second reading without objection. Bill 24 (2026) – General Obligation Bonds - No public testimony or discussion. The bill was reported out for second reading without objection. Bill 28 (2026) – Legislative Budget - An amendment was accepted to add $90,000 for council district mailers ($10,000 per district). Councilmember Cordero clarified the funds would cover postage and printing. The bill was amended to CD1 and reported out. Resolution 26-62 – Property Tax Rates - Chair Waters proposed lowering the residential A tier one tax rate from $4.00 to $3.50 per $1,000 of assessed value. Director Kawano estimated a revenue loss of $14.961 million. Councilmember Kia Aina noted that savings might not reach renters and that a three‑tier system under development could adjust rates. Chair Waters did not press for adoption of his CD1. The resolution was reported out for public hearing with reservations from Councilmember Kia Aina. Key Outcomes - Bill 23 (2026) – Capital Budget: Amended to CD1 incorporating all discussed changes. Councilmember Kia Aina voted no due to the Kamehameha Schools land acquisition. The CD1 was reported out for second reading and public hearing. - Bills 26, 27, and 24 (HART operating, HART capital, bond issuance) were reported out without amendment or objection. - Bill 28 (Legislative Budget) was amended to CD1 with $90,000 for district mailers and reported out. - Resolution 26-62 (Property tax rates) was reported out for public hearing, with reservations from Councilmember Kia Aina. No rate change was adopted at this meeting.

The Honolulu City Council Committee on Budget met on March 30, 2026, to review and discuss proposed amendments to the Executive Operating Budget (Bill 22, 2026) for Fiscal Year July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027. The meeting, chaired by Councilmember Okimoto, involved line-by-line review of amendments with testimony from department directors. Key topics included funding for economic revitalization, public safety retention, stream maintenance, and homeless services. The committee voted to advance the bill as a CD1 for second reading. Discussion Items - Managing Director's Office: Proposed $200,000 for a visitor center at Cohio Beach Park. The administration suggested placing funds under the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) instead due to existing partnership structures. The amendment remained under consideration. - Office of Economic Revitalization (OER): Proposed cuts of $1.62 million and 20 positions, opposed by OER Director Amy Oselbai who cited the office's critical role in disaster recovery and grant acquisition. Councilmembers debated OER's effectiveness, with Councilmember Tupola advocating for a policy-focused role rather than duplicative services. Three community equity liaison positions ($224,304) were accepted. The committee took input but did not finalize cuts. - Department of Customer Services: $100,000 proposed for feral chicken removal. Director Kim Hashiro noted the existing budget adequately covers the program, which has spent $85,000 in FY26 to date. Councilmembers discussed redirecting funds to spay/neuter programs. - Budget and Fiscal Services: $15,000 for a home exemption education campaign was declined by Director Kawano, who stated the department could cover outreach within its current budget. Councilmembers expressed ongoing concerns about outreach to vulnerable populations, such as elderly survivors of spouses. - Prosecuting Attorney: Accepted $2,342,188 for 10 positions (including vacancy cutbacks). Prosecutor Steve Walm requested reallocating funds to create 20 permanent positions within the same total. The committee agreed to consider the proposal offline. - Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP): Accepted amendments for two positions ($89,800 and $59,500) to support the Oahu Historic Preservation Commission, $240,000 for an engineer loan forgiveness program (moved to Building Division), and $109,200 for an agricultural planner. Councilmember Kia Aina emphasized workforce development and cultural preservation. - Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM): Three amendments were proposed: $25,000 for a gate at WaiNi Neighborhood Center, $1 million for stream maintenance in the Alawai watershed, and $750,000 for a long-reach excavator. Director Gene Albano declined all, citing existing budgets and pending flood recovery allocations. Councilmembers pushed back, with Councilmember Nishimoto arguing the $1 million could hire staff for routine stream cleaning, and Councilmember Tupola noting equipment was critical during recent storms. - Honolulu Police Department (HPD): Multiple amendments totaling $2.365 million for retention incentives ($5,000 payments for employees with 25+ years), community policing expansion ($280,000), referral bonuses ($80,000), security cameras ($64,000), and civilian parking stipends ($480,000). Major Ryan Hiranaka opposed all additions and provisos, citing flexibility and lapse concerns. Councilmember Tupola defended the amendments as essential for retention and accountability, noting HPD had $23 million in lapses in FY25. - Department of Transportation Services (DTS): Proposed $10,000 for a crosswalk safety at Nenue Place, $50,000 for quick-build improvements at Pahia Road, $500,000 for Lanikai transportation management, and $500,000 for speed bumps on multiple streets. Director Roger Morton declined most, suggesting existing programs could cover them. Councilmember Kia Aina insisted on keeping all provisions, citing long-standing community needs. - Department of Housing and Land Management (DHLM): Proposed $4 million to purchase the Queen Theater in Kaimuki. Director Ajay stated the amount represents half of the department's operating budget and raised concerns about environmental issues and parking. Chair Waters suggested reducing to $2 million with state partnership. The amendment was moved to DHLM from DES. - Department of Community Services (DCS): Proposed $135,000 reduction for Section 8 funding. Director Krucky requested keeping the funds, as they are federal and critical for rent guarantees during shutdowns. Councilmember Kia Aina discussed adding $2 million for grants to nonprofits, contingent on staff capacity. - Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR): Multiple amendments: $200,000 for tree canopy in District 4, $500,000 for overt video monitoring, $500,000 for a dog park at Kehi Lagoon, $500,000 for turf and electrical improvements, $10,000 for signage at Waianai District Park, and $25,000 for a gate at Kalpuni Neighborhood Park. Director Laura Thielen declined most, emphasizing the need for a balanced budget and citing existing strategies for tree planting and video monitoring. - Department of Enterprise Services (DES): Amendments included moving $4 million to DHLM for the Queen Theater and $150,000 for a buskers program in Waikiki. Director Tita Hollyfield opposed both, citing viability concerns for the theater and current recovery needs for concessions after the Kona Low storms. - Miscellaneous: Proposed reductions of $1.5 million for judgments and settlements and $3 million for homeless activities were opposed by Director Kawano, who noted that the fiscal stability fund may be needed for Kona Low recovery. Councilmembers discussed holding off on reductions. Key Outcomes - Bill 22 (2026) was amended to a CD1 incorporating all proposed amendments discussed during the meeting, with technical and non-substantive adjustments as needed. The CD1 includes changes to the Office of Economic Revitalization, Department of Planning and Permitting, Honolulu Police Department, and other departments as noted. - The committee voted to report Bill 22 CD1 out for second reading and scheduling of a public hearing. No objections were raised. - The committee recessed for lunch at 12:29 p.m. and planned to reconvene at 1:15 p.m. for continued discussions on the capital improvement budget.

The Honolulu City Council convened on March 25, 2026, with 8 members present (Councilmember Wire excused) to address a wide-ranging agenda. The meeting opened with a moment of silence for the late Colleen Hanabusa, recognition of communities devastated by the recent Kona storms, and a message of Aloha. Over the course of the meeting, the council considered first reading of 15 bills (Bills 19–33), passed second reading on an affordable housing incentives bill, passed third reading on three bills, and adopted numerous resolutions. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved unanimously. - Appointments Referred: Resolutions 26-56 (David Britton to Zoning Board of Appeals), 26-59 (Richard Bryce to Fire Commission), and 26-91 (Darien Chun to Board of Water Supply) were referred to committees without objection. - Committee Reports & Resolutions Adopted Unanimously: The council adopted CR-49 (appointing Raynard Soon to Clean Water and Natural Lands Commission), CR-50 (accepting conference gift), CR-52 (accepting benches), CR-53 (Disability Pride Month), CR-54 (pickleball nets), CR-55 (bus shelters), CR-64 (SMA permit for Kahala dwelling), CR-65 (cable landing station), CR-66 (HPD explorer gift), CR-67 (van for HFD), CR-68 (training gift), CR-69 (HFD events), CR-70, CR-71 (police week), CR-72 (train for zoo), CR-73 (water system for zoo), CR-74 (DMV site visit), CR-75 (conference), and CR-56–61 (deeds and settlements) with noted reservations. - Resolutions Adopted Unanimously: R26-34, R26-46, R26-42, R26-32 CD1, R26-40, R26-45, R26-47, R26-27 CD1, R26-29 CD1, R26-28, R26-30 CD1, R26-31, R26-35, R26-41, R26-44, R26-48, R26-49, R26-20 CD1, R26-26, R26-54 FD1, R26-63 FD1, R26-67 (Water Month), R26-68 (city clerk selection committee), R26-70 (bench for Kailua Beach). Resolution 26-72 (Mayor’s China trip) was canceled. Public Comments & Testimony - Support for Appointments: Ernie Lau (Board of Water Supply) spoke in strong support of Darien Chun (water board) and Raynard Soon (Clean Water Commission). Calvin Konohiki opposed some appointments, citing Hawaiian Kingdom sovereignty. - Budget Testimony: Natalie Wassa opposed Bill 20’s rounding method (paragraph C), asked to strike it; supported Bill 22’s storm-related property tax remission; opposed Bill 25’s Residential A rates, noting that a $1.2 million median home would pay $6,300 vs. $4,200 for owner-occupied; opposed Bill 33’s special fund as reducing flexibility. Shelby Billionaire criticized the $4.8 billion operating budget and $1.1 million capital budget (as stated) for lacking emergency funds, citing ongoing flood damage in Waialua. - Housing and Zoning: McKinley Eads (Avalon Group) supported Bill 6 (apartment development standards), stating it reduces costs and increases affordability without subsidies. Wilfred Motosui supported Bill 6 but raised concerns about affordable housing requirements, parking setbacks, and the need to include A2 zoning. Donald Sakamoto supported bus shelter resolutions and the city clerk selection process. - Parks and Public Spaces: Brian Miyamoto (Hawaii Farm Bureau) strongly supported Bill 30 (farmers markets in parks), asking for guardrails to ensure true farmers markets. Natalie Wassa urged that no entrance fees be charged at botanical gardens under Bill 32. - Water and Infrastructure: Tyler Masterson (Churrol CEO) supported Bill 29 and offered a property tax workflow service. The Board of Water Supply and Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 675 supported Resolution 26-67 (Water Month) to raise awareness of the full water lifecycle. - Other Testimony: David Slessor supported the Hawaii Iki Cable Landing Station expansion. Calvin Konohiki spoke in opposition to multiple bills on sovereignty and taxation grounds. Discussion Items - First Reading Bills (Bills 19–33): Councilmember Tupola introduced the package, explaining Bill 19 (temporary certificate of occupancy) to speed occupancy, Bill 20 (rounding cash payments), Bill 21 (transit-oriented development with greywater reuse), budget bills (22–28), tax bills (25, 29), and parks bills (30–33). Councilmember Kia Aina expressed concerns about Bill 30 allowing farmers markets in parks due to parking shortages in Waimanalo; he supported Bill 32 (parks fees) but insisted the council retain authority over fee tiers. Councilmember Cordero supported Bill 32. Councilmember DeSantos Tam echoed concerns about botanical garden fees. Councilmember Okimoto disclosed a communication on Bill 25. All first reading bills passed unanimously. - Zoning & Development Bills (Third Reading): Bill 1 (medical examiner fees) passed 8-0. Bill 6 (apartment development standards) saw testimony and debate; the council adopted it 7-1-1, with Councilmember Nishimoto reportedly voting no. Bill 7 (sign standards for apartment districts) passed 8-0. - Parks Package: Councilmember Tupola emphasized that Bill 32 allows fees for park and botanical garden rentals but not entrance fees, and Bill 33 creates a special fund for parks maintenance to encourage donations. Most members supported the direction but called for guardrails on fees and fund design. - Disaster Response Recognition: Several members praised city departments and volunteers for response to the Kona storms. Councilmember Tupola acknowledged HFD, DFM, and DOT for pumping floodwaters in her district, and Chair Waters highlighted community resilience. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Bill 1 (medical examiner fees): 8-0. - Bill 6 (apartment development standards): 7-1-1. - Bill 7 (sign standards for apartment districts): 8-0. - All other first reading and second reading bills passed unanimously. - Reservations: Councilmember Kia Aina noted reservations on ILA CR-60 (settlement). Councilmember Okimoto noted reservations on ILA CR-60 and a no vote on ILA CR-61. - Appointments: Four appointments were referred to committees; Raynard Soon was adopted directly. - Adjournment: The council adjourned until Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 10:00 AM.

The Honolulu City Council convened on March 25, 2026, to present honorary certificates to individuals and organizations for their contributions to the community. The meeting featured eight recognitions, including awards for reentry services, water infrastructure advocacy, mobile healthcare, school anniversaries, sports championships, cultural preservation, and retiring city clerk Glenn Takahashi. Honorary Presentations - Matt Taufete & First Life After Prison: Honored for 24 years of empowering former inmates through structure, guidance, and second chances. Over 1,000 men have been served. Councilmember Tauba presented. - International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) & Plumbers and Fitters Union Local 675: Recognized March 2026 as March for Water Month. Chair Waters noted an estimated $1.2 trillion in national water infrastructure upgrades needed over two decades. - Project Vision Hawaii: Celebrated 15 years of mobile health, hygiene, and housing stabilization services. Founded in 2011, they provide vision, hearing, dental care, street medicine, and peer-led outreach. - Wallace Rider Farrington High School (90th anniversary) & Farrington Alumni and Community Foundation (50th anniversary): Recognized as the first public school alumni association in Hawaii. A reunion bash is scheduled for March 28, 2026 at Bishop Museum, with proceeds supporting scholarships. - Pearl City High School Girls Varsity & JV Basketball Teams: Honored for winning the 2025-2026 OIA Division II Championships. JV went 8-0; Varsity finished 19-7 overall, runner-up in state tournament. - Kahuku High School Boys Varsity Basketball Team: Recognized as 2025 HHSAA Division I State Champions, defeating Punahou 40-38 in the title game before a crowd of over 2,400. The team rallied from a 13-point halftime deficit. - Halau Mohala Ilima: Celebrated its 50th anniversary (founded 1976) for perpetuating Hawaiian culture through hula, chants, and traditions rooted in Kailua. - Glenn I Takahashi: Honored for 34 years of public service, including roles as election administrator and city clerk. He led modernization efforts such as vote-by-mail and the HonoluluDocs legislative management system. Key Outcomes - All certificates were presented and accepted with applause. - No votes, decisions, or formal actions were taken during the honorary program. - The Royal Hawaiian Band provided entertainment.

The Honolulu City Council's Committee on Budget convened on Tuesday, March 12, 2026, at 10:02 a.m. (HST) to review the Fiscal Year 2027 operating and capital budgets for three city departments: the Department of Human Resources (DHR), the Department of Enterprise Services (DES), and the Department of Design and Construction (DDC). The meeting was chaired by Councilmember Okimoto, with Vice Chair Nishimoto and members Kia Aina, Toba, Cordero, Dosantos-Tam, Tupola, and Chair Waters present. No public testimony was offered for the informational briefing. The committee heard presentations and engaged in extensive questioning on vacancies, technology investments, revenue generation, and project coordination. Department of Human Resources (DHR) - Director Nola Miyasaki presented a proposed FY27 operating budget of $9,544,967, a 10.18% increase from FY26, primarily driven by collective bargaining salary increases (8.51% increase) and new expenses for training and modernization (28.26% increase in current expenses). Key budget issues include subscriptions for NeoGov Attract (recruitment platform), an AI-based classification software, and a one-time pay equity study. - Councilmember Kia Aina raised concerns about the handling of temporary hazard pay misclassifications, particularly for employees in a single department with up to 44 complaints. Director Miyasaki assured the committee that each case would be reviewed individually, but could not commit to a seven-day resolution. The grievance process for such issues is limited to violations of the collective bargaining agreement (CBA), not general error correction, though DHR stated they have already corrected some mistakes. - Councilmember Dosantos-Tam inquired about the timeline for AI-based classification software outcomes. Director Miyasaki noted a pilot had just begun with CSD and promised to provide metrics by September 30, 2026. - Councilmember Cordero asked about progressional reallocations and the $4,822 line item for a non-progressional reallocation, which was clarified as a salary adjustment for a position with expanded duties. Vice Chair Tupola sought details on hiring efficiency; Miyasaki reported that candidate list turnaround is now under three weeks, and the NeoGov Attract module aims to speed candidate targeting. Department of Enterprise Services (DES) - Director Dita Hollyfield presented a budget requesting over $2 million more than FY26, mostly for collective bargaining and three new contract positions (zookeeper, golf administrative assistant, concessions assistant). The department manages the Blaisdell Center, Honolulu Zoo, six golf courses, and city concessions. DES relies on special funds (Golf, Zoo, Special Events). Revenue estimates for FY27 reflect a cautious outlook due to the planned arena closure (starting February 2027 for 20 months) and flat tourism. - Key capital requests: $10 million for urgent Blaisdell Arena roof and sewer repairs (design already in progress), $5 million for golf course irrigation upgrades (notably at the Aloy course), and $8 million for zoo projects including a new bird aviary and multi-species holding area. DES is also pursuing sponsorships and revenue partnerships, such as a joint ticket with the Hanauma Bay shuttle offering zoo admission. - Councilmember Kia Aina urged careful handling of Hawaiian names in sponsorships and suggested tapping into the Transient Accommodations Tax fund (Ordinance 21-3) for zoo capital projects. Chair Waters proposed wedding photography concessions at Waikiki pavilions. Vice Chair Tupola praised the department's revenue-generating initiatives and cross-departmental coordination. - Councilmember Cordero expressed excitement about the zoo's new bird aviary and social media outreach. Committee members noted the importance of revenue generation during the arena closure. Department of Design and Construction (DDC) - Deputy Director Mark Yonamine presented the FY27 operating budget with a 0.3% increase over FY26, requesting four new FTE positions (two for the bridge program, one mechanical engineer, one vehicle) to address an aging bridge inventory and inspection backlog. DDC currently has 40 vacancies and is working to fill 29. Overtime is primarily used for bridge monitoring and emergency responses. - Capital improvement projects highlighted include the $11.6 million civic center parking structure reconstruction, $40 million for the final phase of Salt Lake Boulevard widening, and $10.75 million for Blaisdell Center re-roofing. DDC noted coordination challenges with client agencies and stressed the need for clear scoping and earlier communication with council members. - Councilmember Cordero and Vice Chair Tupola raised concerns about project coordination, citing examples where poor planning led to community dissatisfaction. Chair Waters questioned why DDC does not manage ENV's large-scale CIP projects (e.g., H-Power improvements), learning that ENV had reorganized to manage its own engineering due to consent decree requirements. Committee members emphasized the need for better inter-departmental communication and direct council updates from DDC. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was an informational briefing. Committee members expressed expectations for follow-up on specific issues, including: - DHR to provide metrics on AI classification software outcomes by September 30, 2026. - DES to continue revenue generation efforts and update the committee on AZA accreditation results in two weeks. - DDC to improve direct communication with council members on project status and to work with MD's office on federal grant opportunities. - The committee recessed for lunch at approximately 11:30 a.m. and planned to reconvene at 1:15 p.m.

The Honolulu City Council's Committee on Budget met on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 1:21 p.m. to review the Fiscal Year 2027 operating and capital budgets for the Department of Environmental Services (ENV), the Department of Customer Services (CSD), and the Honolulu Fire Department (HFD). The meeting included presentations from department directors, followed by questions from council members. The committee also heard a presentation from the legislative branch, encompassing the City Council, Office of Council Services, City Clerk, and City Auditor. Consent Calendar - The budget committee heard presentations from ENV, CSD, and HFD. No consent calendar was noted. Public Comments & Testimony - No in-person or remote public testimony was received during the meeting for any agenda item. Discussion Items – Department of Environmental Services (ENV) - Director Roger Babcock presented an overview of ENV's $464.9 million operating budget, a 6% increase over FY26. The department handles 100 million gallons of sewage per day and treats 4 million tons of refuse daily (including private haulers). - A $1.5 million pilot project will lease five zero-emission electric side-loader refuse trucks and charging infrastructure to test viability before a potential full fleet conversion. Councilmember Tupola proposed an alternative pilot using renewable natural gas from landfill methane, noting fuel could be made from the city's own trash. - The GROW (Green Recycling of Organic Waste) program, a curbside food waste collection pilot, begins April 1, 2026, in five communities and will expand island-wide in October. The goal is to divert 60,000 tons of the 90,000 tons of annual food scraps from the waste stream. Councilmember Waters expressed skepticism about compliance, citing likely contamination and odor from green carts collected every other week. The director acknowledged contamination is a challenge and will require education and enforcement. - ENV reported a 37% increase in participation in water conservation rebates (doubled to $200 for toilets, $150 for clothes washers, $400 for submeters) in the first two months of FY26 (January and February 2026), which reduced volume by 1.7 million gallons. - The CARES (Customer Assistance for Residential Environmental Services) low-income sewer fee assistance program is anticipated to launch in May 2026, offering a $20/month credit ($240 annually) to households at 80% or below Area Median Income (AMI). - The wastewater CIP includes $348 million in FY27 spending (cash and bonds), with major projects including the $461 million Phase 1 Sand Island secondary upgrade (membrane bioreactor now in startup mode). Councilmember Cordero raised concerns about the project's impact on adjacent social services, such as homeless shelters. - The Oahu Sanitary Landfill is seeking a permit extension beyond its March 2028 expiration to fill remaining capacity (projected to last until 2031). Vice Chair Tupola expressed disappointment in the administration's plan to purchase land adjacent to the Waimanalo Gulch Landfill (Maka Eva Gulch) for a new landfill, noting a prior promise to close that site and site a new landfill elsewhere. - ENV has 279 vacancies (20% vacancy rate) and plans to fill 43 by end of June 2026 and reduce to 16% by end of FY27. Director Babcock noted that $55.4 million in salary lapse savings remain in the sewer fund and will be used on future CIP projects, helping to moderate future sewer fee increases. Discussion Items – Department of Customer Services (CSD) - Director Kimberly Hashiro reported a $32.8 million combined budget (salaries $17.2M + current expenses $15.6M) for FY27, with general fund revenues projected at $228 million. The department has a 5% salary increase and added 7 reactivated positions to bring a call center in-house. - A new digital driver's license and motor vehicle registration system (“new card system”) is in testing and will go live by April or May 2026. It will reduce wait times, eliminate separate photo lines, and allow each window to complete full transactions. Director Hashiro stated the system is not expected to reduce the workforce but will shift duties from data entry to verification and strategy. - The new towing contract separates abandoned vehicles (CSD) from law enforcement towing (HPD) and will include large vehicles (boats, heavy trucks), eliminating the current need for multiple quotes and purchase orders. - Two aging vehicles (15-year-old cargo van and 35-year-old cargo passenger van) will be replaced. - The Waiʻanae Civic Center project ($4 million total: $2M in FY26, $2M added for FY27) will relocate DMV and satellite city hall staff to a new state building; interior fit-out began March 2026 and is expected to be complete in late 2026 or early 2027. - CSD has 26 vacancies (8%); plans to fill 14 by June 2026 and the remaining 12 in FY27. The department has high turnover (41 departures since July 2025) and is implementing four additional reorganizations (including a 100-position driver's license branch reorg) to improve retention and create career paths. Discussion Items – Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) - Chief Kalani Hāʻo reported an overall budget increase of 1.5% (to $1.5 million) and announced the department was reaccredited for the sixth time since 2000. HFD has 136 uniform vacancies, but 95 recruits are in ghost positions, yielding 41 true fiscal vacancies. A July 2026 recruit class of 40 is planned. - The department is seeking an unfunded FTE pool of 20 recruit positions to allow aggressive hiring without exceeding the city ordinance. Chief Hāʻo explained that a surge in retirements (from the large 1999–2001 hiring classes reaching 25 years) and the contract being in arbitration (July 2025) make it difficult to predict retirements with precision. The pool would act as a cushion. - Overtime increased by $124,000 (to $1.124 million total), mainly for dispatch staffing, prevention bureau, and the mechanic shop to maintain an aging fleet. Supply chain issues have lengthened fire apparatus build times from 365 to over 1,000 days. - HFD submitted a $19.9 million congressional direct spending request for a twin-engine helicopter, an aviation fuel tender, a hoist simulator, generators, and radio replacement. Decision expected in October 2026. - Regarding a potential merger with EMS, Chief Hāʻo cited concerns: HFD responds to 40,000 of the 110,000 EMS calls, and he fears more medical calls would degrade training time for all-hazards preparedness. He stated the workgroup is still meeting. Discussion Items – Legislative Branch Budget - Kenny Arakaki (ASO, Council) presented a combined legislative branch request of $33.37 million (9.1% increase), largely driven by a $2.1 million increase in the City Clerk's budget for Honolulu's share of the new voting system. - City Clerk Glenn Takahashi (retiring) noted the elections budget fluctuates by year; the FY27 request is $7.21 million, up $786,000 from the comparable FY25 budget due to collective bargaining and minimum wage increases for temporary election workers. - The Office of Council Services requests $3.54 million (4.9% increase), primarily for the 4% exempt salary adjustment and updated ROH supplements. - The City Auditor requests just over $2.2 million (3.1% increase) with flat FTE of 13. Increases follow salary adjustments and higher software and lease costs. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken during the briefing; the committee will accept supplementary questions via email, directed to the Managing Director's office. - Chair Waters announced that administrative leave is granted for Friday, March 13, 2026, for all non-essential legislative branch staff due to severe weather, and all council hearings and meetings are postponed. Essential personnel should report as directed.

The committee on budget met on March 11, 2026, to review fiscal year 2027 budget proposals from the Department of Community Services (DCS), the Department of Information Technology (DIT), and the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM). Presentations included funding priorities, vacancy rates, capital projects, and responses to councilmember questions. No formal votes were taken. Department of Community Services (DCS) Budget Presentation - Director Anton Cruckey presented a $182 million budget, noting 80% of funds come from federal and state sources. Key initiatives included expanding homeless shelter beds (e.g., "beds of many flavors"), the Kakua Command Center for data-driven homeless services, and HONU leverage triage centers. The department highlighted pivots during federal shutdowns, including using salary savings to cover Section 8 rent payments. - Councilmember Kiaina praised the $2 million for Hui Mahi Aina in Waimanalo and the grants and aid process. She raised concerns about temporary hazard pay for employees; Director Cruckey committed to resolving within seven days. - Councilmember Cordero asked about community revitalization funds and the relocation of Hale Maliola. Councilmember DeSantis Tam inquired about the rental assistance fund and the move to 222 North School Street. - Councilmember Tolba asked about the $7 million in homeless facilities and potential locations. Vice Chair Nishimoto asked about the Housing Trust Fund lapse date. - Chair Waters asked about overtime usage; Director Cruckey agreed to provide an estimate of overtime costs. Department of Information Technology (DIT) Budget Presentation - Director Brian McKee presented a budget increase, focusing on a citywide rollout of Microsoft Office 365 ($5.3 million), P25 emergency radio console replacement, surveillance cameras, and new positions. DIT has 17 vacancies. - Councilmember Kiaina expressed support and emphasized the need for a constituent management system; Director McKee stated an in-house system is near completion. - Councilmember DeSantis Tam asked about ongoing costs for Office 365 and revenue from cell tower leases. Vice Chair Nishimoto asked about a master list of software licensing agreements and standardization. - Chair Waters asked about the mainframe replacement project (estimated $10 million), which was not in the budget. Director McKee described a deal with Arizona DOT for free software but noted the need for grant funding. Councilmember Kiaina advised on pursuing federal earmarks and state support. Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) Budget Presentation - Director Jean Albano presented a budget with less than a 1% increase. Key items: reducing vacancies (217 vacancies, aiming to fill 33), additional staff for 222 North School Street and the blood bank building, and major equipment for stream maintenance. - Councilmember DeSantis Tam asked about equipment procurement from last year and overtime capacity. Councilmember Tolba asked about the stormwater system survey and collaboration with ENV. - Vice Chair Nishimoto asked about road repair responsibilities and stream maintenance prioritization. Councilmember Kiaina praised storm preparation efforts. - Councilmember Cordero asked about funding for the blood bank building and crane redundancy. Chair Waters asked about vacancy projections and revenue decreases. - Director Albano noted the reinstatement of a heavy equipment training program to support succession planning. Key Outcomes - DCS: Director Cruckey agreed to provide overtime usage data and resolve hazard pay issues within seven days. - DIT: Director McKee committed to continuing pursuit of mainframe replacement funding and will deliver a constituent management system for council offices. - DFM: Department will continue equipment training and work on vacancy reduction. The stormwater planning study contract is in execution. - Chair Waters designated Councilmember DeSantis Tam as a temporary voting member for quorum purposes. - The meeting was adjourned with reminders about the next hearing scheduled for March 12, 2026 (weather permitting) and a backup date of March 17.

The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee convened on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 10:08 AM to review the fiscal year 2027 operating and capital budget requests for the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART), Department of Transportation Services (DTS), and Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP). The meeting included presentations, Q&A, and public testimony. No formal votes were taken. Public Comments & Testimony - Raquel Achu (Wai Lua Moku) submitted written testimony and spoke in support of providing enforcement resources for DPP. She stated that the department has warranted consideration for additional resources to address ongoing issues, emphasizing that without enforcement, efforts are "just chasing in circles." Discussion Items HART Capital and Operating Budget Review - HART Deputy Executive Director Michael O’Keefe presented the FY27 budget request, approved by the HART board on November 21, 2025. - Operating budget: $177.6 million requested, up $2.8 million (1.6%) over FY26. Approximately 97% ($172.6 million) is for debt service, including $135.5 million in principal payments, $33.8 million in interest, and $3.3 million in administrative fees and arbitrage expenses. Total labor costs budgeted at $1.3 million (down 16.8%). - Capital budget: $891.5 million requested, up $97.8 million (12.3%) over FY26. Includes $1.6 billion fixed contract for city center guideway and stations (segment three), Pearl Highlands transit center access ramp ($7.8 million increase due to revised construction cost estimate), Waipahu Station Mackay entrance, and park-and-ride construction (900 stalls at East Kapolei, 1,100 stalls at UH West Oahu). - Staffing: Currently 50 filled positions; 22 more anticipated by end of FY27 (total 72). Of those, 6.5 allocated to operating budget, 65.5 capitalized. No planned abolitions. - Funding sources: 75% from GET/TET state surcharges; $125 million under Full Funding Grant Agreement (FFGA) for utility relocation completion (expected by end of 2026); final $119 million tranche available September 2027, not tied to performance milestones. Annual $10 million city subsidy. No new GO bond debt planned; $150 million in tax-exempt commercial paper (TECP) requested but not expected to be used in FY27. - Outstanding debt: Approximately $750 million as of March 2026, all to be fully retired by 2030. - Councilmember Cordero raised concerns about ADA elevator/escalator durability and park-and-ride design for pedestrian safety at Kapolei station. O’Keefe acknowledged lessons learned from earlier segments and said the team is "taking another look" at the Kapolei design. - Councilmember DeSantis Tam questioned the 8% increase in TAT revenue projections given softening tourism. O’Keefe noted that GET collections were up 5.8% in the first seven months of FY27, offsetting lower TAT, and that HART has a cash reserve cushion. - Councilmember Tupola noted that the operating budget includes 6.5 staff in operating vs. 65.5 in capital, which is an accounting allocation based on federal guidelines. DTS Executive Capital and Operating Budget Review - DTS Director Roger Morton presented the FY27 budget of $501 million: $25 million for support staff, $351 million for bus and HandiVan, and $123.9 million for Skyline. Overall 2.9% increase over FY26. - Skyline operations: $123.9 million, with the largest expense being the Hitachi contract ($77 million). Electricity ($13.5 million), elevator/escalator maintenance ($8 million), security, and insurance. - Revenues: $50 million generated system-wide, including $3.57 million fare increase from recently approved fare hike (net after adjusting for unchanged senior/disabled fares). Federal operating subsidy of $21.12 million for bus maintenance. No additional federal operating funds for Skyline. - Advertising: Current vendor (Japanese transit advertiser) handles bus ads; exterior advertising on buses and stations is prohibited by ordinance. Morton estimated potential revenue of $6–7 million from exterior ads, compared to current $120,000. - Vacancies: 31 vacancies, lowest in years; aim to fill 22 by June. Hiring engineers improved due to higher salary scale. - Fleet age: Average fleet age 12 years; some buses over 20 years. FY27 bus acquisition ($34.7 million) is significantly lower than FY26 ($74 million) due to procurement timelines and vendor delivery delays (23–24 months after order). - Fare system: Existing Holo contract expiring; DTS budgeting $1.35 million for a three-month shadowing period for reprocurement. Open payments (credit/debit card) will begin implementation within nine months, reducing need for Holo cards (300,000 issued annually). - Councilmember Waters questioned limited revenue generation from advertising and park-and-ride overnight parking. Morton noted park-and-ride lots are currently prioritized for commuters; overnight parking could be explored as capacity increases with new lots. - Councilmember DeSantis Tam inquired about federal grant reimbursements for salaries; DTS stated reimbursements go back to the fund from which expenditure was drawn (highway fund or general fund). DPP Budget Review - DPP Director Dawn Takeuchi Apuna presented the FY27 budget, reduced 5% overall. Only one new full-time equivalent (reactivated construction inspector). Salaries reduced 4.99% due to vacancy savings. - Vacancies: 85 vacancies (21% rate). Expect to fill 15 by June 30 and 35 more in FY27. High vacancy in commercial plan review engineers and inspectors; planner shortage alleviated by a March 2025 shortage designation. - Overtime: Budgeted $227,000 (8,000 hours) for building permit review by plans examiners and engineers; sewer fund overtime ($11,000) for emergency mapping; highway fund ($8,000) for inspections. - Revenues: Estimated $32 million unchanged from FY26. Short-term rental penalties projected at $800,000 (up from $550,000) due to expected enforcement. Building permit fee revenue static at $25 million. - Technology: E-plans, HNote Build, and CIF Check AI systems now operational. - Bill 7 grants: 58 projects; 6 completed, 17 under construction, 35 under review; total potential 1,752 units with 189 added so far. Pre-construction grants: 3 pending applications. Post-construction: 6 grants awarded ($1.9 million), none pending. - Councilmember Cordero questioned enforcement for short-term rental registration; Apuna said only two investigators remain, vacancies need filling. - Councilmember Kia Aina announced a proposed loan forgiveness program to attract engineers, noting workforce development for permitting is a priority of the legislature’s speed task force. - Councilmember DeSantis Tam noted positive trend: vacancies down from 100 (two years ago) to 85; overtime down from $299,000 to $227,000. Revenue estimates appear conservative. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the meeting was an informational briefing. - Councilmembers directed HART to provide an update on Kapolei station park-and-ride design and to monitor TAT revenue trends. - Councilmembers encouraged DTS to pursue increased advertising revenue, explore overnight parking at park-and-rides, and modernize the Holo fare system. DTS noted that updating the ordinance prohibiting exterior advertising would be a necessary step. - Councilmembers supported DPP’s technology implementation and requested further data on third-party reviewer and self-certification programs. DPP committed to updating sidewalk and right-of-way permit applications in coordination with a broader city standards update.

The Committee on Budget, chaired by Councilmember Okimoto, convened on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 12:53 PM to review the fiscal year 2027 budget requests from the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), the Department of Housing and Land Management (DHLM), and the Liquor Commission. The meeting featured detailed presentations, discussions on staffing, asset management, funding sources, and operational challenges. No formal votes were taken. Department of Parks and Recreation Director Laura Thielen and Deputy Director Kehau Pu presented the department's budget. Key topics included: - Personnel: DPR has been filling over 100 positions annually for three years, but retirements and separations keep vacancies high. They have 46 positions in interview/selection, 46 approved to fill, and 22 under reorganization. - Non-revenue contributions: DPR secured $10 million in offset projects from DOT for windward/North Shore parks, a $6.75 million green fee application for Ala Moana beach nourishment, $40 million in NORESCO energy-savings park improvements (Phase 1), and $5 million from AES for Kahuku District Park. The Adopt-a-Park program provides over $500,000 in in-kind value annually. - Asset management: A $750,000 Phase 2 lighting inventory and a $250,000 software license for work order/asset scheduling are requested. The roofing assessment shows 30% of 400+ buildings need roof replacement within five years. - Maintenance Support Services (MSS): Requesting $8.9 million from transient accommodation tax (TAT) to fund a work program for roofing and repairs. Director Thielen emphasized that delayed roof repairs lead to structural damage, as seen at Pololo District Park gym. Councilmember Discussions: - Councilmember Kia Aina expressed concern that using TAT for roofs may not align with the fund's original intent (recreation and natural resources) and warned against using it as base funding. Director Thielen clarified it is an annual allocation, not perpetual. Kia Aina also highlighted potential DOD REPI funding and urged collaboration with the climate change office. - Councilmember DeSantis Tam asked about the Parks and Playground Fund; Director Thielen noted it is used for CIP and that a new national design-build playground contract may allow more efficient use. - Councilmember Wire inquired about activating unimproved city parcels; Director Thielen described pre-approved standard agreements and MOUs for community stewardship. For agricultural activities, she suggested that lands better suited for that purpose be placed in a different inventory (e.g., DHLM). - Councilmember Tupola and others praised progress and discussed sponsorships, turf partnerships, and vertical parks for urban infill. - Councilmember Cordero asked about the relationship between MSS and DDC; Director Thielen explained that MSS handles minor capital improvements via master agreements, while DDC handles major projects. - Chair Waters asked about lapsing funds; Director Thielen noted that a purchasing hold caused equipment lapses in FY25 but that purchasing has agreed to push items through promptly going forward. - Chair Waters also raised concerns about the Hawaii Kyodo Foundation archery facility at Maunawai Nature Preserve and the canoe boathouse roof; Director Thielen committed to community outreach and noted the roof is on the repair list. Department of Housing and Land Management Director Kevin Augier presented a budget of $7,007,944, a 35% decline due to capitalizing relocation expenses. Key points: - Vacancies: 16 of 48 authorized positions are vacant (11 filled by PSCs, 6 hired via governor's emergency proclamation). - Revenue: The department manages 60 commercial leases generating $2 million annually (deposited with BFS). One tenant default has been worked out, recovering $100,000. - Budget issues: $750,000 for non-capitalizable relocation, $150,000 to reconfigure office space, and funding for four new positions from a prior reorganization. - Capital programs: $26.8 million for Affordable Housing Fund, $100 million for Mixed-Use Development Fund, $10 million for Villages of Kapolei (reimbursed by state), and $1 million for infrastructure planning in Halawa and Evil A. - Clean Water and Natural Lands Fund: Current balance $70 million. Director Augier noted they are working with the office on stewardship and signage. Councilmember Discussions: - Councilmember DeSantis Tam raised concerns about vacant commercial spaces and Bill 10; Director Augier estimated tens of thousands of dollars per month in foregone rent. He also asked about the status of the real property inventory; the deadline from Chief Data Officer Kira Chucham is May 2026. - Councilmember Wire asked about activating city land and project-based vouchers; Director Augier said they are actively pursuing the voucher program now that a pipeline of projects is in place. - Councilmember Cordero inquired about flood mitigation at Evil A; Director Augier described a $2 million FTA grant and work with Nippon Koei on flood mitigation. - Councilmember Kia Aina emphasized the need for better communication on land assets, especially for Clean Water and Natural Lands Fund projects. She urged the department to avoid simply netting out other funding sources and presenting the city with a large bill. Director Augier committed to collaboration. - Chair Waters asked about affordable housing incentives; Director Augier identified land readiness and pre-development cost assistance as key, noting that they are negotiating development agreements for 10 properties and expect to bring resolutions to council soon. - Councilmember Tupola clarified the Villages of Kapolei funding and confirmed that the city will be reimbursed by the state. She also praised progress on the Verona Village CPR documents. Liquor Commission Assistant Administrator Anna Hirai presented a budget request increase of $500,000 (11%) for FY27. Key items: - Personnel: 16 of 57 FTEs vacant (including the administrator position, under recruitment). The most difficult-to-fill positions are Liquor Control Investigator (LCI) 3, with three positions vacant for seven years. - Overtime: FY26 licensing overtime was high—two employees logged over 1,600 hours each. This correlates with LCI 3 vacancies. - IT system: $200,000 for L2 maintenance (the custom licensing database) and $50,000 to complete the purchase of body-worn cameras. - New positions: Requesting 1.48 FTEs (a full-time and a 19-hour part-time records management analyst) to handle UIPA requests and body-worn camera footage redactions. - Revenue: The commission is self-funded through annual licensee fees. Current licensee count is 1,506, higher than projected, so the budget increase is expected to be covered without raising fees (staying within the 20% statutory ceiling). Councilmember Discussions: - Councilmember Kia Aina emphasized the need to increase investigator salaries ($53,000 starting) and asked the commission to explore reclassification to a higher bargaining unit. She also noted SB 2835 and urged the commission to keep the council informed. - Councilmember DeSantis Tam asked about the backlog of 350 license applications; Administrator Hirai said a permitted interaction group is meeting the next day to find efficiencies. - Councilmember DeSantis Tam also inquired about the Way Chen report; Darren Matsumoto reported 13 of 19 initiatives completed, with the remainder in progress, including body-worn cameras and policy revisions. - Councilmember Cordero suggested raising license fees to increase salaries, but acknowledged it would need commission and council action. Administrator Hirai noted a statewide discussion on moving investigators to a higher bargaining unit. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or resolutions were adopted during the meeting. - DPR will provide a revised list of TAT-funded MSS projects after incorporating the new roofing assessment, and will share the initial list with council members for input. - DHLM committed to delivering the city-wide real property inventory by May 2026, and to improving communication with council members on land activation projects. - Liquor Commission will continue working on reducing the licensing backlog and exploring salary improvements for investigators, with a state-wide conference scheduled for November 2026. - All departments will provide supplementary responses to council questions via the Budget Committee chair.