Hawaii Council Advances Bold Bills to Tackle Housing Crisis

During a recent government meeting, several significant bills were discussed, focusing on energy efficiency, public safety, taxation, and housing issues in Honolulu.

One of the key proposals, Bill 40, aims to amend ordinance 23-29 by including solar energy storage and energy efficiency projects for multifamily dwellings and commercial buildings as eligible for professional self-certification. Rocky Mold, executive director of the Hawaii Solar Energy Association, expressed strong support for this bill, highlighting the importance of energy storage in enhancing grid reliability and the potential benefits for the commercial and multifamily sectors.

The meeting also addressed Bill 41, which pertains to the administration of a public spay and neuter clinic for dogs and cats, although no public testimony was provided on this matter. Bill 42 proposed allowing certain taxpayers to remit real property taxes through additional installment payments, with one testifier advocating for a property tax cap for long-term residents to prevent displacement due to rising costs.

Traffic safety was another focal point, with Bill 44 proposing to establish more appropriate speed limits on certain streets in Honolulu. Testimony from local residents emphasized the need for reduced speeds near schools to protect children and vulnerable populations. The Honolulu Police Department expressed support for measures aimed at improving roadway safety.

Several bills related to real property taxation were also discussed, including Bill 46, which proposes an empty homes tax aimed at addressing the housing crisis by discouraging property vacancies. Testifiers, including Calvin Pham and Ellen Godbee Carson, highlighted the potential of this tax to increase housing availability for local residents, drawing comparisons to successful implementations in other cities like Vancouver.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing pressing issues such as energy efficiency, public safety, and housing affordability through legislative action. The discussions reflect a proactive approach to improving the quality of life for residents in Honolulu.