Honolulu Council Approves Police Budget Cuts Amid Long-Term Vacancies

The Honolulu City Council convened on April 1, 2025, to discuss the Special Budget for the upcoming fiscal year, focusing on various funding allocations and proposed cuts within the Honolulu Police Department (HPD). The meeting highlighted significant discussions regarding vacant positions and budgetary adjustments aimed at addressing long-term vacancies within the department.

The session began with a review of proposed amendments related to the Office of the Chief of Police. Council members discussed the implications of maintaining several vacant positions, including three Metropolitan Police Corporals, an office assistant, and a work program coordinator, totaling over $400,000 in salaries. Additionally, funding for a Metropolitan Police Captain was proposed to be reduced, alongside cuts to out-of-state travel expenses.

Council Member Cordero raised concerns about the acceptance of proposed salary cuts, noting that the suggested reductions were less than the lapses in salary funds within the department. Cordero emphasized the importance of addressing these lapses while still supporting the police department's operational needs. In response, Chair Waters acknowledged that many of Cordero's proposed cuts were included in broader cuts made across various departments, aimed at addressing long-term vacancies.

Further discussions included the police commission's budget, with Council Member Cipolla questioning the rationale behind the prolonged vacancies in certain positions. The council noted that the police commission has three investigative positions that are challenging to fill due to specific requirements, which has contributed to the vacancies.

As the meeting progressed, the council proposed reducing funding for 59 Metropolitan Police Officer positions, which have been vacant for an extended period, amounting to over $4.6 million. Additional cuts included reductions for Metropolitan Corporals, Detectives, and Lieutenants, as well as current expenses for educational and recreational supplies.

Despite the proposed cuts, the council agreed to allocate at least $400,000 to expand and train community policing teams across all patrol districts. This funding aims to enhance community engagement and support neighborhood security initiatives.

In conclusion, the council's discussions reflected a strategic approach to managing the police department's budget, focusing on addressing long-term vacancies while ensuring community policing efforts remain funded. The council plans to continue evaluating the budget and its implications for the HPD in future meetings.