The Honolulu City Council is taking significant steps to enhance financial transparency and address housing challenges in our community.
Advancing Financial Transparency
In December 2025, Council Chair Tommy Waters and Councilmember Val Okimoto introduced Bill 76, aiming to establish an ‘open checkbook’ system. This initiative seeks to create a publicly accessible, searchable online database detailing city expenditures, updated at least monthly. The goal is to promote transparency and allow residents to monitor how public funds are utilized. The bill passed its first reading on December 3, 2025, and is progressing through the legislative process. Source
Addressing Housing Affordability
On May 14, 2025, the Council adopted several measures to tackle housing affordability:
- Bill 4 (2025), CD2: Reestablishes a process to obtain sponsorships for city facilities, parks, programs, equipment, and tangible property, providing alternative revenue sources without additional taxpayer burden.
- Bill 15 (2025), CD2: Creates a fund to support climate resiliency projects, including flood mitigation and coastal protection, enhancing community safety and sustainability.
- Bill 31 (2024), CD2: Establishes a pre-construction subsidy program to assist developers in overcoming financial hurdles, accelerating the construction of affordable rental housing.
These initiatives reflect the Council’s commitment to fostering a more transparent and livable Honolulu. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in ongoing discussions to shape the future of our city. Source