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Council advances flood-hazard code update to keep Honolulu eligible for federal flood programs
Summary
On first reading the council moved forward Bill 34 to update flood-hazard regulations in RO chapter 21A so Honolulu can remain eligible for the National Flood Insurance Program and related federal grants; councilors and emergency managers warned the June 10 map-update deadline makes quick action essential.
The Honolulu City Council gave Bill 34 a first reading to revise the city’s flood-hazard ordinance (RO chapter 21A) so the city remains eligible for the National Flood Insurance Program’s community rating system, Council Member Kia told colleagues.
Kia said updated flood insurance rate maps become effective June 10, 2026, and the city must update local regulations before that date to avoid suspension from the program. Suspension, she said, could mean non-renewal of flood policies, loss of federal grants and loans for mitigation, and reduced mortgage-lending assurances for properties in flood hazard areas.
Emergency-management experts and neighborhood leaders supported expedited action. Dylan P. Armstrong, an emergency manager who has helped secure FEMA mitigation assistance in the past, told the council the proposed revisions increase eligibility and competitiveness for FEMA mitigation grant programs that finance elevation, floodproofing and acquisition projects.
Residents from storm-impacted neighborhoods described ongoing displacement and damaged roofs; several urged the council to balance short-term recovery needs with the longer-term planning this ordinance change would enable. “We must update the maps and code to preserve opportunities for federal grants,” Council Member Tupola said, noting the urgency.
Council passed Bill 34 on first reading and invited further committee work to finalize text and coordinate implementation with state and federal partners.
