Honolulu City Council accepts $5,692 gift for LGBTQ site marker at Waikiki Beach

In a recent meeting held on March 30, 2025, the Honolulu City Council discussed a significant resolution that accepted a gift valued at $5,692 from Le Pua Ola, Queer Histories of Hawaii. This donation is earmarked for the preparation and installation of a site marker at Queen's Surf Beach in Waikiki, which will honor Hawaii's diverse LGBTQ+ and Mahu communities, both past and present.

The Deputy Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation, Ted Hayden, expressed gratitude for the donation, highlighting the importance of preserving the history of the LGBTQ community in Hawaii. The marker will be strategically placed near the Waikiki Aquarium, specifically off to the right of a prominent tree, making it accessible to visitors and locals alike.

During the meeting, Council Member Cordero raised questions about the process for accepting gifts to the parks. Laura Theon, the Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation, explained that the recreation staff at each park typically leads the process, working closely with the director's executive assistant to finalize resolutions for council approval. Theon noted that gifts below a certain value are submitted quarterly, while those above the threshold are presented at the next council meeting.

The discussion also touched on the criteria for accepting gifts, with Theon clarifying that the department generally does not reject gifts but may experience delays in processing due to the need for additional information from the gifter. The threshold for requiring a council resolution was confirmed to be $2,500, with discussions ongoing about potentially raising this limit.

This meeting underscored the city council's commitment to recognizing and honoring the contributions of marginalized communities, while also addressing procedural aspects of gift acceptance that impact the efficiency of park enhancements. The installation of the site marker is expected to foster greater awareness and appreciation of Hawaii's LGBTQ+ history, contributing to the cultural richness of the area. As the council moves forward, the implications of these discussions will likely influence future initiatives aimed at inclusivity and community engagement in Honolulu.