City Council Briefing on Charter Amendment No. 2 - October 26, 2026

The City and County of Honolulu held a meeting on October 26, 2026, to receive a presentation and discuss Charter Amendment No. 2, a ballot measure proposing to rewrite the preamble of the city charter. The proposed new language seeks to recognize the relationship between the people and the ʻāina (land), honor kupuna (elders) and Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole, and affirm commitments to transparent, accountable government and stewardship of natural, civic, and cultural resources.

Discussion Items

• Presentation on Charter Amendment No. 2: The body received a detailed briefing on the proposed amendment. The presentation explained that the measure would replace the existing opening statement of the city's constitution with new language emphasizing Native Hawaiian values, cultural heritage, and governmental accountability.
• Supporters' Position: The presentation noted that supporters view the amendment as a meaningful recognition of Native Hawaiian history and a clear promise of transparency and public involvement. They see it as a statement of shared responsibility to the land, water, and community.
• Concerns Raised: The discussion also highlighted limitations of the amendment, which were presented as typical constraints of a preamble. It was noted that the amendment would not create new funding, impose new duties on city departments, or establish new legal rights enforceable in court. Consequently, passing the amendment alone would not alter land-use decision-making processes or change open government rules.
• Framing of the Amendment: The presentation characterized the measure as primarily symbolic and directional, posing the fundamental question for the body's consideration: whether these values belong at the forefront of the city's charter.

Key Outcomes

• The meeting concluded with the comprehensive information having been presented and discussed.
• No formal votes, motions, or referrals were made. The discussion served as a deliberative and informational session regarding the scope and implications of the charter amendment.