Council evaluates mass transit budget and ridership effectiveness amid rising costs

The Hawaii County Special Committee on Finance convened on April 10, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding mass transit funding and service effectiveness. The meeting focused on the current state of the mass transit system, budget allocations, and the need for community feedback to enhance service delivery.

The session began with discussions on the potential reallocation of General Excise Tax (GET) funds, which may now be used for purposes beyond mass transit. Committee members expressed a desire to understand how they could contribute feedback to ensure effective investment in transit services. There was a consensus on the importance of evaluating whether current services meet community needs, with members emphasizing the necessity of assessing ridership and service effectiveness.

A significant point raised was the increase in the mass transit budget, which has grown from $14 million in fiscal year 2017-2018 to an anticipated $59 million for the current fiscal year. Despite this substantial budget increase, ridership has not seen a corresponding rise, prompting concerns about the sustainability of the program. One council member highlighted that the cost per ride could reach approximately $40, raising questions about the efficiency of spending and the need for a reevaluation of the mass transit master plan.

Members acknowledged the importance of transit services for lower and moderate-income residents, particularly those who rely on public transportation for daily commutes. The discussion underscored the need for equitable access to transit routes, especially for communities that depend heavily on these services.

The committee concluded with a call for a detailed breakdown of ridership by route to better understand which services are utilized and how they can be improved. This data will be crucial for future planning and ensuring that the mass transit system effectively serves the diverse needs of the community.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the critical juncture at which Hawaii County's mass transit system stands, emphasizing the need for thorough evaluation and community engagement to adapt to changing needs and ensure sustainable service delivery.