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Budget committee advances reappointment of Peter Young to real property tax appeals board
Summary
The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee amended and reported out Reso. 26‑98 on May 19, 2026, advancing the reappointment of Peter Young to Board of Review 3 for real property tax appeals; Young urged better public education for appellants and suggested PSAs and clearer notices for kupuna and other residents.
Peter Young, an incumbent member of Board of Review 3 that hears real property tax appeals, addressed the Honolulu City Council Budget Committee on May 19, asking to be reappointed and describing common issues he sees in appeals. "It was probably one of the best decisions I've ever made," Young said, adding that serving on the board has given him perspective on the range of appellants from longtime kupuna to mainland investors.
Councilmembers questioned Young about patterns in appeals. Young said the two recurring problems are late submissions and a lack of public education about how assessments are calculated. "On the website there's a wonderful video... but only about 50% of the people that come before us have watched the video," he said, suggesting the city consider PSAs, more social media outreach and one‑on‑one assistance for appellants.
Councilmember Cordero asked whether missed mailings or other factors were driving late filings; Young recommended clearer outreach and staff assistance. Council Chair Waters and other members praised Young's service and discussed legislative options to give assessors or boards limited discretion to address narrowly compelling late submissions for kupuna; Young said current law gives boards no leeway on strict filing deadlines and appellants can instead pursue tax court.
After responses from members and no public opposition, Budget Chair Tara Okimoto recommended a hand‑carried CD1 to correct references to the appointee's name and make technical edits; the committee approved the amendment and reported Reso. 26‑98 (CD1) out for adoption.
Why it matters: Board of Review members decide appeals that can materially affect household tax bills. Young's emphasis on education and more accessible notices focused discussion on ways the city could reduce administrative appeals and help vulnerable residents understand assessment changes.
What’s next: The committee reported the amended resolution out for adoption to the full council.
