Residents and athletes urge council to fund aquatics center renovation and Wai ʻŌlelo I flood study

Several members of the public spoke during consideration of Bill 23, pressing the council to fund renovations at the Mark Takai Aquatics Center and to support a flood-control study for Wai ʻŌlelo I.

Cole Nakamura, founder of a local swim foundation, said the aquatics center is “more than just a pool,” calling it a community hub that teaches discipline, water safety and athletic skills, and urged passage of Bill 23 to fund renovations. Youth swimmers and representatives of the VMAC Renewal Foundation recounted safety issues and aging infrastructure — from starting blocks and scoreboards to seating — and asked the council for support to preserve access and programming for children, seniors and athletes.

Eric Beaver, representing Hawaii Reserves, testified in support of the bill and described chronic flooding in Laie linked to insufficient channel and outfall capacity at Wai ʻŌlelo I. Beaver said prior work under the Army Corps’ Continuing Authorities Program reached federal spending limits and that the General Investigations program may provide an alternative federal funding pathway; he also said his organization will continue to fund half of the city’s local match for related study work.

Councilmembers acknowledged the testimony when amending and approving Bill 23; the adopted amendments reflect funding additions for stream maintenance and capital improvements included in the FD‑1 floor draft.

What happens next: Departments will incorporate adopted budget language into project planning and procurement; community groups and project partners may be asked to coordinate on scope and matching funds.