North Shore NewsAloha North Shore Community,
This past month, we had the privilege of recognizing Going Green for over two decades of service to the community. The organization started in 2004 at Haleʻiwa Harbor and Kaimuki High School. Through its free, one-stop recycling events, Going Green has helped keep our communities clean and sustainable, diverting thousands of pounds of e-waste, HI-5 beverage containers, clothing, eyewear, and more from our landfills. As they enter their 21st year, we extendour deepest gratitude to the volunteers and partners who make these efforts possible.
Community Updates:
The Department of Design and Construction (DDC) conducted a street lighting analysis at the intersection of Waialua Beach Road and Goodale Avenue. The study confirmed the need for additional lighting, and a work order was issued to the Department of Facility Maintenance. Our office confirmed that the new light post had been installed and is working. Mahalo to the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) for completing directional arrows at the Shark’s Cove parking lot on February 19, 2025. Additional improvements, including parking stalls and loading zones, were also completed last month to enhance safety and accessibility. We appreciate the community’s patience during this process.
We’d also like to extend a big mahalo to the Department of Environmental Services (ENV) for co-hosting an informational meeting on the Kawailoa Transfer Station’s capacity. As a result of ongoing discussions, ENV has announced that starting April 6, 2025, new green waste drop-off hours will take effect at the Kawailoa Transfer Station, with Sunday operations running from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Residential users are still encouraged to dispose of green waste at Hawaiian Earth Recycling Products free of charge, Monday through Saturday, to support composting efforts and to reduce landfill waste. We appreciate the community’s engagement in these conversations and their commitment to responsible waste management. Additionally, I am pleased to share that the Kawailoa Transfer Station is now testing a program that accepts electronic waste (e-waste) through a newly introduced bin at the site. E-waste includes items such as computers, monitors, laptops, tablets/e-readers, printers, and televisions.
Legislative Updates:
Bill 61 (2024), which establishes a clear standard for HPD to identify and cite individuals performing wheelies on public streets using electric bicycles, mopeds, or motorcycles, has passed its third and final reading and is now heading to the Mayor’s desk forhis signature.
Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Process:
The City Council is currently in the critical phase of reviewing the Mayor’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget. Over the next few months, the Council will thoroughly examine the administration’s budget package, including both the Executive Operating and Capital Budgets. The review process includes budget briefings with department directors, as well as a special budget meeting on March 31st to discuss proposed additions to the FY26 budget. A second reading at the full Council will take place on April 16th, providing further opportunities for public testimony.
Our proposed amendments for the North Shore Ocean Safety Station and Ambulance Unit, also known as the “First Responders Center,” were adopted at the Council’s most recent Budget Committee meeting. We appreciate the Mayor’s efforts in negotiating the sale of the parcel and look forward to seeing the project materialize.
Our amendments preventing the use of City funds for a landfill above a significant aquifer were also adopted by the Budget Committee. Please continue to follow the budget process, and for more information on how to testify or tune in to these hearings, please visit www.honolulucitycouncil.org. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact me at (808) 768-5002 or mweyer@honolulu. gov. Mahalo for your continued engagement and collaboration!