Resolutions Adopted

Whereas, The recent Lahaina wildfire disaster has highlighted long-standing safety concerns in isolated communities across Oʻahu, where residents face significant obstacles to evacuation; and

Whereas, Many isolated communities, including Makakilo, Mililani Mauka, Wahiawa, and the Waiʻanae Coast, have only one access route, making them vulnerable to disaster, and a second exit is crucial to ensure the safety of their residents; and

Whereas, The lack of second access routes in these communities poses a significant risk to public safety, particularly in the event of a wildfire or other emergency; and

Whereas, The City and County of Honolulu has a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents, particularly in isolated communities; and

Whereas, Providing second access routes for isolated communities would require collaboration with state and federal agencies, as well as significant funding and resources; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi urges the City and County of Honolulu to:

• Prioritize the development of second access routes for all isolated communities, including Makakilo, Mililani Mauka, Wahiawa, and the Waianae Coast, and work with the Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) to secure funding and support for these projects; and
• Explore alternative emergency evacuation routes, such as utilizing existing private roads, to provide a secondary access point for isolated communities; and
• Allocate necessary resources and funding to complete the design and implementation phases of these projects; and
• Collaborate with state and federal agencies to secure funding and support for the development of second access routes for isolated communities, and to expand on solutions, such as the Waianae Coast Emergency Access Road, that can serve as models for other communities; and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi request the City and County of Honolulu to provide regular updates on the progress of these projects through their Neighborhood Boards and to work with the affected communities to address their concerns and needs; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, the Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, all members of the Honolulu City Council, the Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization, the Neighborhood Commission office, and all Neighborhood Boards.

Whereas, Article XI, Section 9 of the Hawaiʻi State Constitution guarantees every community a "clean and healthful environment", and the City and County of Honolulu has a responsibility to uphold this guarantee; and

Whereas, The communities of West Oʻahu, including Makakilo, Kapolei, Honokai Hale, and Nānākuli, bear a disproportionate burden of waste management practices, including landfilling, incineration, and recycling, resulting in significant environmental and health impacts; and

Whereas, Landfills in West Oʻahu contribute to air pollution through the release of methane and hydrogen sulfide gases, which can lead to respiratory issues and may contain carcinogenic compounds, while leachate from landfills seeps into groundwater, introducing harmful chemicals like benzene and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) linked to cancer, and residents living near these landfills face higher rates of cancers, including bladder, liver, and lung cancer, further highlighting the significant environmental and health burden on these communities; and

Whereas, Incineration emits airborne pollutants such as dioxins, furans, and heavy metals, which are classified as carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and these emissions may increase the risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, soft-tissue sarcoma, and lung cancer and particulate matter released during incineration carries toxic substances that, when inhaled, may contribute to long-term negative health effects, including cancer, and ash residue from incineration contains carcinogenic substances, requiring careful disposal such as a double-lined landfill to prevent environmental contamination; and

Whereas, The Kekaha Host Community Benefits Fund has provided a successful model for host community compensation, demonstrating the importance of community-led decision-making, transparency, and fairness; and

Whereas, The Mayor's Advisory Committee on Landfill Site Selection (2012) and the Landfill Advisory Committee (2022) have recommended considering "Host Community Compensation Benefits" for affected communities; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi urge the City and County of Honolulu to establish a host community compensation program, using the Kekaha Host Community Benefit Fund as a model, to provide equitable, sustainable, and responsive compensation to communities affected by landfills, H-Power, and other waste management practices; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, the Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, all members of the Honolulu City Council, the Neighborhood Commission office, and all Neighborhood Boards.

Whereas, Leeward Oʻahu lacks community gardens, leaving residents without access to community resources that promote health, wellness, and sustainability; and

Whereas, The lack of community gardens in Leeward Oʻahu is an equity issue, as residents in this area pay taxes but do not have access to the same resources and amenities as other parts of the island; and

Whereas, Community gardens can address food insecurity, promote climate resilience, and support biodiversity; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi urge the City and County of Honolulu to create community gardens in Leeward Oʻahu, prioritizing community-led design and management, food security, and climate resilience; and be it

Resolved, That the City and County of Honolulu consider Puʻu o Kapolei, located within Kapolei Regional Park, as a potential site for a community garden, and work in collaboration with the appropriate Neighborhood Boards, community groups, and stakeholders to develop a plan for the garden's establishment and maintenance, including access to reliable irrigation and other necessary resources; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, the Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, all members of the Honolulu City Council, Waiʻanae Moku Kupuna Council, the Neighborhood Commission office, and all Neighborhood Boards.

Whereas, For decades the U.S. Department of the Navy's Red Hill Underground Fuel Storage Facility ("Red Hill Facility") has stored up to 250 million gallons of fuel in 20 underground storage tanks built in the 1940s that suffered from corrosion and other wear and tear and that ultimately led to the release of fuel and other chemicals during at least five known incidents between 2014 and 2022; and

Whereas, The location of the Red Hill Facility is a mere one hundred feet above an aquifer used by Honolulu's Board of Water Supply to serve 400,000 people on Oʻahu; and

Whereas, Following a November 24, 2021 incident that contaminated the Navy's Red Hill Shaft water source, the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health ("DOH") issued an emergency order to the U.S. Navy that required the Navy to cease all operations at the facility and defuel the tanks, and then on March 7, 2022, the U.S. Secretary of Defense directed the defueling and permanent closure of the Red Hill Facility; and

Whereas, On March 17, 2024, the DOH concurred that the Navy had completed its defueling obligations under a May 2022 Emergency Order; and

Whereas, On September 4, 2024, the Honolulu City Council adopted Resolution 24-216 that urges the Navy and U.S. Department of Defense to immediately implement weekly testing of all Navy Red Hill monitoring wells and drinking water wells for all chemical contaminants stemming from past fuel and hazardous materials that were used, stored, or released at the Red Hill Facility; and

Whereas, Continued remediation and monitoring are necessary to continue protecting the aquifer; and

Whereas, The Navy plans to reopen the Aiea-Halawa Shaft with a Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) treatment facility, despite its closure after the 2021 Red Hill spill, which reportedly released 19,000 gallons of jet fuel into the aquifer and this proposal lacks both an Environmental Assessment (EA) and an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), leaving environmental risks, public health, and community input unaddressed; and

Whereas, The Navy plans to reopen its Red Hill Shaft, which was previously closed due to fuel contamination, utilizing a GAC treatment facility following an Environmental Assessment (EA) rather than an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), raising concerns about insufficient scrutiny, limited community input, and potential risks to Honolulu County's aquifer and public health; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi call upon the United States Government to adequately staff, monitor, and remediate the Red Hill Facility and chemical contaminants stemming from past fuel and hazardous materials that were used, stored, or released at the Red Hill Facility; and be it

Resolved, That the O?ahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi requests the United States Government, especially the Navy and the Environmental Protection Agency, to continue regular communication with the residents of Oʻahu and to participate in the Community Representation Initiative (CRI) established by the 2023 Consent Order calls to increase the public's involvement in activities related to the closure of the Red Hill Facility; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, the Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, State of Hawaiʻi Department of Health, Hawaiʻi's Congressional Delegation, Secretary of Defense, Commander of the Indo-Pacific Command, Director of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, Honolulu Board of Water Supply, all members of the Honolulu City Council, Members of the Community Representation Initiative, Shut Down Red Hill, Sierra Club of Hawaiʻi, 350Hawaiʻi and Greenpeace Hawaiʻi Chapter.

Whereas, Public murals have the power to transform blank spaces into vibrant community assets, fostering a sense of belonging and a welcoming atmosphere; and

Whereas, Communities from Kakaʻako to Nānākuli have reaped the benefits of public murals, with local artists and community groups collaborating to produce beautiful and meaningful works of art; and

Whereas, The City and County of Honolulu has established a structured process for the creation of murals on public facilities, which includes review and approval by the Commission on Culture and the Arts (CoCA) in accordance with Revised Ordinances of Honolulu (ROH) Sec. 3-2.7(a); now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi endorse the sponsorship of local artists to create murals on public facilities, including utility boxes, to enhance community character, celebrate local culture, and deter vandalism; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, the Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, and all members of the Honolulu City Council.

Whereas, Social media plays a critical role in modern politics, offering tools for communication, engagement, and mobilization; and

Whereas, Social media platforms enable direct connection between political parties and the public, fostering engagement that allows for education and accessible communication; and

Whereas, Social media has the power to influence civic engagement, voting behavior, and public opinion on political issues; and

Whereas, A sustained and organized social media strategy will enable the Oʻahu County Democrats to respond to emerging issues and events that affect Oʻahu residents and demonstrate transparency and accountability in the party's actions and decision-making processes; and

Whereas, A well-developed and maintained social media presence is crucial for today's Democratic Party to effectively reach and engage with voters, particularly younger demographics; and

Resolved, The Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi recognizes that the value of social media in increasing, enhancing, and supplementing communication efforts and the importance of building and maintaining relationships with constituents between election cycles; and

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi shall:

1. Develop a comprehensive social media strategy that aligns with the party's values and meets the following goals:
   a. Counter misinformation and provide accurate, timely information on party activities, policies, and candidates;
   b. Foster a sense of community and belonging among Oʻahu Democrats through online engagement;
   c. Increase voter engagement and turnout by leveraging social media's ability to mobilize voters particularly among younger voters who are more active on social media;
2. Create a dedicated Social Media Team with representatives from each Oʻahu District to ensure diverse representation and perspectives;
3. Establish guidelines for social media use that promote trustworthy, responsible and effective communication while adhering to the party's principles;
4. Provide training and resources for the Social Media Team to effectively manage and utilize various social media platforms; and
5. Regularly evaluate and adapt the social media strategy to ensure its effectiveness in reaching and engaging with Oʻahu residents; and
6. That the Oʻahu County Committee consider hiring a professional social media manager, or coordinating with the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi to hire a professional social media manager; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Chair of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi and the Oʻahu County Committee.

Whereas, The Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi is committed to creating opportunities for free and open political dialogue to promote civic engagement, political action, and community solidarity; and

Whereas, Community engagement is crucial for building stronger, more cohesive communities and enhancing trust between government leaders and residents; and

Whereas, Active community participation drives social transformation necessary to make communities more equitable and resilient; and

Whereas, Engaged communities are more likely to participate in elections, leading to higher voter turnouts; and

Whereas, There has been a concerning trend of declining knowledge of democratic citizenship, government, and participation in the democratic process; and

Whereas, Political advocacy is vital to empowering Kānaka Maoli and all Hawaiʻi residents to influence policies impacting their cultural, economic, and social well-being; and

Whereas, Community engagement builds relationships that ensure voices of residents are heard in the decision-making process in a healthy democracy; and

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi shall develop and implement a comprehensive community engagement strategy that focuses on connecting with communities and districts throughout Honolulu, with the aim to:

1. Strengthen the party's connection with constituents and build trust in local communities;
2. Increase party membership and volunteer participation;
3. Cultivate future leaders who are committed to the party's values and the wellbeing of Hawaiʻi;
4. Ensure that party policies and initiatives reflect the true needs and aspirations of Hawaiʻi's diversity; and
5. Reinvigorate the party's presence and influence at the grassroots level; and be it

1. Organize and participate in community-related service projects that address local needs and priorities;
2. Create opportunities for party members, elected officials, and community leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration;
3. Establish programs to educate and inspire civic engagement among Hawaiʻi's youth, integrating civic responsibility into cultural identity;
4. Partner with local organizations to promote voter registration and participation in the democratic process; and
5. Regularly seek input from diverse community members to inform policy decisions and party platforms; and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi shall consider attending or organizing community activities in our neighborhoods and where member interest aligns including but not limited to: Neighborhood Boards; Headstart; Meals on Wheels; Food Bank distributions; DLNR Forest Restorations; Beach and Trail cleanups, etc; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Chair of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi and the Oʻahu County Committee.

Whereas, The issue of solid waste management poses significant environmental, public health, and logistical challenges for Honolulu County, particularly with its limited land resources and growing population; and

Whereas, Proper solid waste management is essential to safeguard Oʻahu's natural environment, including its aquifers, oceans, and ecosystems, while ensuring sustainable waste disposal practices for future generations; and

Whereas, Honolulu County faces complex waste management issues, including the need to address landfill capacity, recycling initiatives, hazardous waste disposal, and the environmental impacts of waste incineration; and

Whereas, The establishment of a working group would provide an opportunity for stakeholders-including government agencies, environmental organizations, community leaders, and subject-matter experts-to collaboratively assess and propose solutions to Honolulu County's solid waste management challenges; and

Whereas, Convening a working group would promote transparency, community involvement, and accountability in the decision-making process, fostering trust and ensuring that the perspectives of diverse stakeholders are considered; and

Whereas, The Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi passed the resolution entitled, "Resolution to Minimize Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Landfills", in 2004 "...request[ing] the state...and all Counties, assess and proceed with plans to reduce, reuse or recycle municipal solid waste, and to explore technologies that have little or no pollution that are appropriate and cost effective to minimize the need for landfills..." and give the pressing nature of our waste management problems, more specific steps ought to be considered; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi request the Department of Environmental Services to convene a working group on solid waste management to address Honolulu County's waste management needs; and be it

Resolved, That the working group should focus on:

• Assessing current waste management practices and identifying areas for improvement; and
• Evaluating life cycle assessments of environmental and public health impacts of waste disposal methods, including landfill and incineration and these methods' impacts from toxic chemicals and other chemical pollutants that impact asthma, cancers, heart attacks, and other health effects; and
• Exploring sustainable waste management technologies and strategies that follow the Zero Waste Hierarchy; and proposing actionable recommendations to enhance waste reduction, recycling, and resource recovery efforts; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, and all members of the Honolulu City Council.

Whereas, Hawaiʻi's Constitution imposes a high hurdle for approving nuclear power, a critical provision that protects the health and safety of Hawaiʻi's residents and reflects long-standing public opposition to nuclear power; and

Whereas, Honolulu County faces unique challenges due to its geographical isolation, including the transportation of nuclear fuel over vast ocean distances, which poses significant risks to its pristine marine environment and tourism-dependent economy; and

Whereas, The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has established emergency planning zones around nuclear power plants, including a 10-mile radius for immediate radiation exposure concerns and a 50-mile radius for food and water contamination risks, making the safe siting of a nuclear power plant on Oʻahu impossible; and

Whereas, Honolulu County's geological instability, including frequent earthquakes, volcanic activity, and tsunami risks, makes it an unsafe location for storing nuclear waste, which would require maintenance and funding for at least 200,000 years to contain lethal radioactive materials; and

Whereas, The cost of nuclear disasters is immense and multifaceted, encompassing direct costs like cleanup operations, property damage, and evacuation efforts, as well as indirect costs including long-term health consequences, economic disruption due to lost productivity and tourism, and severe psychological impacts on affected populations, often lasting for generations; and

Whereas, Integral Fast Reactors, Pebble Bed Modular Reactors, Thorium Fueled Reactors, Molten Salt Reactors, and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are not viable options for Honolulu County, as these so-called "new" reactor types remain unproven, pose unresolved safety risks, and are economically inefficient, delaying faster and cheaper climate solutions; and

Whereas, The Hawaiʻi State Energy Office has indicated that nuclear power would be an expensive form of energy for Honolulu County, distracting from achieving clean energy goals; and

Whereas, The nuclear industry's claim that nuclear power is "carbon-free electricity" is factually inaccurate, as existing reactors emit greenhouse gases due to the continuous need for uranium mining, milling, conversion, enrichment and fuel fabrication, and indefinite waste disposal for countless generations, which each step (including the reactors themselves) impacting different communities with radioactive and chemical pollution; and

Whereas, Nuclear power is not renewable, requires costly infrastructure, and would divert attention and resources from proven, sustainable solutions like solar and wind energy; and

Whereas, Honolulu County is already on the path to achieving 100% renewable energy by 2045 through Act 97 (2015); now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi urge the City and County of Honolulu to commit to a nuclear-free, sustainable future for Honolulu County and reject committing financial and regulatory assistance towards nuclear power; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this Resolution be transmitted to the Governor and Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi Chief Energy Officer, Hawaiʻi State Legislators who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, and all members of the Honolulu City Council.

Whereas, The impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels and increasing temperatures, pose significant risks to Honolulu County's environment, economy, and residents; and

Whereas, Achieving decarbonization in energy consumption sectors is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and meeting Hawaiʻi's clean energy and climate goals; and

Whereas, Public investment in combustion-free alternatives, such as renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency initiatives, can accelerate decarbonization efforts while fostering economic growth and job creation; and

Whereas, A comprehensive study is necessary to determine how energy consumption sectors in Honolulu County can be most quickly and cost-effectively decarbonized through targeted public investments; and

Whereas, This study would provide valuable data and recommendations to guide policy decisions and ensure that public resources are allocated efficiently to maximize environmental and economic benefits; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi request the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development to commission a study of energy consumption sectors in Honolulu County to identify the sector that can be most quickly and cost-effectively decarbonized through additional public investment in combustion-free alternatives; and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi recommends that this study should:

• Analyze current greenhouse gas emissions from each energy consumption sector including an accounting of biogenic carbon;
• Assess the cost-effectiveness and feasibility of transitioning to combustion-free alternatives in each sector;
• Identify opportunities for public investment to accelerate decarbonization; and
• Include stakeholder input to ensure that diverse perspectives are considered; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, and all members of the Honolulu City Council.

Whereas, The rule of law is a cornerstone of democracy, ensuring that all individuals, including those in positions of power, are held accountable to the same legal standards; and

Whereas, Compliance with orders issued by the United States courts is essential to maintaining the integrity and independence of the judicial branch, as well as public trust in the legal system; and

Whereas, Honolulu County residents rely on the rule of law to protect their rights, ensure fair governance, and uphold justice in matters affecting the local community; and

Whereas, Failure by the President of the United States or members of an administration to comply with U.S. laws and court orders could harm Honolulu County through:

• Environmental risks, such as delayed cleanup of PFAS contamination, including the 1,300-gallon release of AFFF with PFAS at Red Hill on November 29, 2022, which threatens Honolulu's groundwater and marine ecosystems;
• Health care impacts, including non-compliance with legal requirements for federal funding that support community health programs in Honolulu County, which could jeopardize access to essential services for residents; and
• Immigration enforcement, as improper actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may infringe on the rights of Honolulu County's immigrant population, disrupting families and communities;
• Economic impacts, including layoffs of federal agency employees in Honolulu County, which could disrupt local services, reduce household incomes, and negatively affect the county's economy; and
• Erosion of public trust, undermining confidence in both federal and local institutions tasked with serving the community; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi urge President Donald Trump and all members of the current and future administrations to abide by the laws of the United States, including full compliance with orders issued by the United States courts; and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi affirm their commitment to upholding the rule of law as a fundamental principle of democracy and governance in Honolulu County; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States, members of the Hawaiʻi Congressional Delegation, Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, and all members of the Honolulu City Council.

Whereas, The City and County of Honolulu's Homeless Outreach and Navigation for Unsheltered Persons (HONU) program, also known as the Lift Mobile Navigation Center, has been a vital initiative in addressing homelessness in our community, providing essential services to those in need; and

Whereas, HONU operates as a mobile triage and shelter site located on public lands, typically at City parks, serving up to 40 homeless individuals at a time for approximately 90 to 120 days; and

Whereas, The program offers comprehensive navigation services that assist participants in identifying immediate and appropriate shelter or housing options, while also providing meals, snacks, and access to hygiene facilities; and

Whereas, HONU is a collaborative effort between the Honolulu Police Department (HPD), the Department of Community Services (DCS), and the State of Hawaiʻi, demonstrating the power of partnership in tackling complex social issues; and

Whereas, The primary purpose of HONU is to provide temporary shelter and facilitate linkages to social services, ensuring that individuals have access to emergency shelter, transitional housing, permanent housing, or other necessary treatment options; and

Whereas, HONU has successfully assisted a total of 4,095 individuals, with 2,205 of those participants navigating to more permanent living arrangements, as of October 1, 2024; and

Whereas, The program's low-barrier admission guidelines ensure that individuals can access services without unnecessary obstacles, fostering a safe and supportive environment for all participants; and

Whereas, HONU's commitment to the well-being of its participants, including efforts for relocation and reunification with family, exemplifies compassion and dedication to restoring dignity and hope to those experiencing homelessness; now therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi express our heartfelt appreciation for the HONU program and its staff, volunteers, and partners for their unwavering commitment to serving our community's most vulnerable members; and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi encourage continued support and funding for the HONU program to ensure its ongoing success and expansion, as it plays a crucial role in addressing homelessness and promoting social equity in Oʻahu; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, the Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, all members of the Honolulu City Council, Honolulu Police Department, and the Department of Community Services.

Whereas, The Red Hill Fuel Storage Facility has been the source of significant fuel discharges, including Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH), which have contaminated Oʻahu's drinking water aquifers and led to the closure of shafts and wells; and

Whereas, The contamination caused by TPH poses serious risks to public health, including exposure to carcinogenic compounds such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene, as well as other toxic substances that can lead to long-term health effects; and

Whereas, The closure of shafts and wells due to fuel contamination has disrupted access to safe drinking water for thousands of residents and service members, highlighting the critical need for thorough environmental analysis before reopening any affected water sources; and

Whereas, An Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is essential to evaluate the extent of contamination by fuel discharges at Red Hill to assess the risks to public health and the environment, and to ensure that appropriate remediation measures are implemented to prevent further harm; and

Whereas, Reopening a shaft or well without conducting an EIS would undermine public trust and fails to guarantee the safety of drinking water for affected communities; and

Whereas, The long-term integrity of Oʻahu's aquifers must be prioritized to safeguard the health and well- being of current and future generations; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi urge the City and County of Honolulu, the Department of Health, and the United States Navy to require a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) prior to the reopening of any shaft or well that has been closed due to a Red Hill Fuel Storage Facility discharge of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH); and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi recommends that the EIS should include:

• A detailed analysis of the contamination levels and the presence of hazardous chemicals in the affected aquifer; and
• An assessment of the potential health risks to residents and service members; and
• A review of the effectiveness of remediation efforts and long-term monitoring plans; and
• Public consultation to ensure transparency and community involvement in the decision-making process; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this Resolution be transmitted to the Governor and Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Department of Health, Hawaiʻi State Legislators who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, all members of the Honolulu City Council and the Commander of the United States Pacific Fleet.

2025-15: Urging Honolulu Authorities to Adopt Environmental Restoration Standards and Accountability for Underground Storage Tank Releases

Whereas, Underground storage tanks and tank systems in Honolulu County have posed significant threats to the environment and public health due to confirmed releases of hazardous substances such as petroleum and Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH); and

Whereas, These releases contaminate soil, groundwater, and aquifers—vital resources that are essential for drinking water, agriculture, and overall environmental sustainability; and

Whereas, Petroleum-related contaminants such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene are known carcinogens and toxic substances that present long-term health risks to affected communities; and

Whereas, A confirmed release from an underground storage tank or tank system requires immediate and comprehensive measures to remediate contamination and restore the environment to pre-release conditions to protect public health and Honolulu County's fragile ecosystems; and

Whereas, Establishing a rebuttable presumption that any detection of these contaminants in the vicinity of an underground storage tank or tank system following a confirmed release is a result of the release ensures accountability and reduces the burden on affected communities; and

Whereas, Stringent restoration standards and monitoring requirements are essential to prevent future contamination and ensure responsible management of underground storage tanks and tank systems; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi urge Honolulu County authorities to require owners or operators of underground storage tanks or tank systems with confirmed releases to meet strict standards for environmental restoration, ensuring thorough remediation and protection of natural resources; and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi recommends that these requirements should include:

• Full remediation of contaminated soil, groundwater, and aquifers to pre-release conditions; and
• Long-term monitoring to detect and address any ongoing contamination; and
• Public reporting of remediation progress to ensure transparency and community involvement; and
• Enforceable penalties for failure to comply with restoration standards; and
• recovery efforts; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, and all members of the Honolulu City Council.

2025-16: Requesting the Hawaiʻi State Auditor to Conduct a Management and Financial Audit of the States Medicaid Health Care Insurance Contractors on a Biennial Basis for Honolulu County

Whereas, Effective oversight of managed care organizations under contract with the Department of Human Services to provide managed care health insurance plans under the State’s Medicaid Managed Care Program is essential to ensure the proper use of public funds and the delivery of quality health care services to Medicaid beneficiaries in Honolulu County; and

Whereas, The Auditor plays a critical role in providing this oversight by conducting audits to assess the performance, compliance, and financial integrity of entities that receive state funds; and

Whereas, Medicaid is a significant component of the State's budget, and ensuring the integrity and efficiency of Medicaid health care insurance contractors is crucial for the sustainability of the State's Medicaid Managed Care Program and the well-being of Honolulu County residents; and

Whereas, Given the complexity and scale of Medicaid operations, it is imperative to have a robust audit mechanism to identify and address any issues related to financial management, service delivery, and compliance with federal and state regulations, particularly as they impact Honolulu County; and

Whereas, The Medicaid Program Integrity Manual, published by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), outlines the importance of audits in identifying and addressing Medicaid fraud, waste, and abuse, and emphasizes the need for proactive project development and collaboration between state agencies and auditors to ensure program integrity; and

Whereas, A report by the United States Government Accountability Office published on September 21, 2023, highlights the critical role of state auditors in Medicaid oversight, finding that state auditors identified an average of over three hundred Medicaid audit findings per year, including overpayments and payments to ineligible providers, and noted that nearly sixty percent of Medicaid audit findings were repeated from the prior year, indicating the need for more effective corrective actions; and

Whereas, Specific incidents in Hawaiʻi highlight the need for rigorous audits of its Medicaid health care insurance contractors, including multiple cases of Medicaid overpayments due to provider ineligibility, noncovered services, and lack of prior authorization identified by the Department of Human Services in 2021 and 2022, which directly impact Honolulu County residents; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi request the Auditor to conduct a management and financial audit of the State's Medicaid health care insurance contractors on a biennial basis, with full cooperation by such insurers, and assess the financial integrity, performance, and compliance with all applicable federal and state laws, regulations, and contractual obligations of each Medicaid health care insurance contractor, with a focus on impacts to Honolulu County; and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi recommends that the Auditor publicly report its findings and send it to the Governor and State Legislature to ensure transparency and accountability in Medicaid operations; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this Resolution be transmitted to the Governor and Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Department of Health, Hawaiʻi State Legislators who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, and all members of the Honolulu City Council.

Whereas, State-owned lands in Honolulu County are leased to the United States of America and its federal agencies for various purposes, including military, administrative, and other federal operations; and

Whereas, Transparency and accountability in the management of these lands in Honolulu County are essential to ensure that they are being utilized in a manner that aligns with the best interests of Oahuʻ's residents; and

Whereas, A comprehensive list of state lands in Honolulu County currently leased to the United States of America or any federal agency would provide valuable information to policymakers, community leaders, and the public, fostering informed decision-making and public trust; and

Whereas, Such a list would also help identify opportunities to renegotiate lease terms, ensure fair compensation for the use of Honolulu County's state lands, and address any concerns related to environmental, cultural, or community impacts; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi request the Attorney General to produce and provide a detailed list of state lands in Honolulu County currently leased to the United States of America or any federal agency, including information on the location, size, purpose, and terms of each lease; and be

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi recommends that this list be made publicly available to promote transparency and facilitate community engagement in discussions regarding the use of state lands in Honolulu County; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, and all members of the Honolulu City Council.

Whereas, Effective emergency management is critical to protecting Honolulu County residents from disasters and emergencies; and

Whereas, "Disaster" is defined as the occurrence or imminent threat of widespread or severe damage, injury, or loss of life, property, or environment resulting from any sudden natural or artificial cause, including but not limited to hurricanes, windstorms, floods, extreme rain events, earthquakes, landslides, mudslides, volcanic activity, tsunamis, fires, explosions, air or water contamination, blight, droughts, infestations, riots, sabotage, hostile military or paramilitary action, disruption of state services, hazardous material accidents, disease outbreaks, bioterrorism, terrorism, or incidents involving weapons of mass destruction; and

Whereas, "Emergency" is defined as the occurrence or imminent threat of a disaster that causes or is likely to cause catastrophic harm and immediate danger to the population, substantial damage to or loss of property, or substantial damage to or loss of the environment, where timely action can avert or minimize impacts; and

Whereas, Honolulu County is distinctly vulnerable to disasters such as hurricanes, tsunamis, flooding, volcanic activity, hazardous material spills, and other catastrophic events that require timely and coordinated responses to safeguard public health, safety, and welfare; and

Whereas, The current definitions allow the Governor to wield broad emergency powers, including suspending or rewriting laws outside the legislative process, ensuring such powers are used strictly for true emergencies; and

Whereas, Ambiguities in the current statutory language could allow administrations to declare complex, ongoing social challenges-such as housing or poverty-as "emergencies" to unilaterally suspend or rewrite laws indefinitely, undermining the democratic legislative process; and

Whereas, The original emergency proclamation on housing suspended and rewrote laws protecting environmental and cultural integrity, food security, climate resilience, fiscal accountability, transparency, collective bargaining rights, and the public's right-to-know, without ensuring housing developed under its regime would be affordable or benefit current residents; and

Whereas, This measure ensures emergency powers are not misused to benefit politically influential entities at the expense of public interest, protecting democratic transparency and accountability; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi urge the City and County of Honolulu to seek state statutory clarification for "disaster" and "emergency" definitions to strengthen emergency management efforts and protect democratic processes in Honolulu County; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, and all members of the Honolulu City Council.

Whereas, Honolulu County faces significant challenges related to climate change, including rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and coastal ecosystem degradation; and

Whereas, Marine ecosystems such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves play a critical role in carbon sequestration by absorbing and storing large amounts of carbon dioxide, thus contributing to efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change; and

Whereas, Restoring marine ecosystems in Honolulu County can enhance their natural ability to sequester carbon, while simultaneously improving biodiversity, protecting shorelines, and supporting sustainable fisheries; and

Whereas, Investment in marine ecosystem restoration aligns with Honolulu County's commitment to ' achieving its decarbonization goals and advancing environmental stewardship; and

Whereas, The Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi called for the restoration of coral reefs (Resolution 2023-03); and

Whereas, Marine ecosystem restoration projects have the potential to mobilize community involvement, promote education on the importance of climate resilience, and create green jobs that support local economies; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi affirm the importance of marine ecosystem restoration as a critical strategy to achieve Honolulu County's decarbonization goals; and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi urge the Governor of Hawaiʻi, the Honolulu City Council, and relevant agencies to prioritize funding and support for marine ecosystem restoration projects, in addition to coral reef recovery, including mangrove reforestation and seagrass restoration in affected areas of Honolulu County; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, and all members of the Honolulu City Council.

Whereas, Honolulu County's state-owned lands, such as Makua Military Reservation, Kahuku Training Area, and Poamoho Training Area, hold immense cultural, environmental, and historical significance, serving as vital resources for residents, Native Hawaiian communities, and future generations; and

Whereas, Military training activities conducted on state-owned lands in Honolulu County, including Makua Military Reservation, Kahuku Training Area, and Poamoho Training Area, have led to documented environmental degradation, including contamination of land and water resources, destruction of native ecosystems, and disruption of traditional cultural practices; and

Whereas, The Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility has caused catastrophic massive fuel releases, contaminating the aquifer that supplies drinking water to Honolulu County residents, with remediation efforts failing to fully address the environmental and public health impacts; and

Whereas, The failure to clean up military debris on state-owned lands in Honolulu County has left hazardous materials and unexploded ordnance, posing ongoing risks to public safety and the environment; and

Whereas, The Hawaiʻi Supreme Court's decision in Ching v. Case reaffirmed the State's constitutional trust duties to protect and preserve public trust lands, emphasizing the obligation to reasonably monitor and safeguard these lands from misuse or damage; and

Whereas, Public trust lands in Honolulu County must be managed in alignment with the fiduciary duty to protect their cultural, environmental, and public value for the benefit of Native Hawaiians and the general public; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi urge the Board of Land and Natural Resources not to approve any new land disposition or renew any land leases that allow or facilitate military training activities on State-Owned lands in Honolulu County, including Makua Military Reservation, Kahuku Training Area, Poamoho Training Area, and other similar sites; and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi urge the federal government to remove any unexploded ordinances, military debris, and do all legally required environmental restoration and remediation effort prior to lease end; and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi emphasize the importance of prioritizing environmental preservation, cultural integrity, and public benefit in all decisions involving state-owned lands in Honolulu County; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this Resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, the Chairperson of the Board of Land and Natural Resources, the Hawaiʻi State Department of Land and Natural Resources, Hawaiʻi State Legislators who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, all members of the Honolulu City Council and the Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command.

Whereas, Construction and demolition (C&D) waste contributes significantly to Honolulu County's solid waste stream, posing challenges to landfill capacity, environmental sustainability, and public health; and

Whereas, The PVT Land Company Ltd. C&D landfill, the primary site for C&D waste disposal in Honolulu County, poses environmental and health risks to surrounding communities, including potential soil and groundwater contamination and air quality concerns; and

Whereas, The eventual closure of the PVT Land Company Ltd. landfill underscores the urgent need to identify and implement alternative strategies for managing and reducing C&D waste; and

Whereas, Reducing C&D waste through a deconstruction mandate requirement for the recovered building materials in new construction and renovation, and sustainable construction methods can minimize environmental impacts and extend the lifespan of waste management facilities; and

Whereas, Convening a working group focused on C&D waste reduction would bring together stakeholders, including government agencies, construction industry representatives, reuse and recycling industries, architects, artists, environmental organizations, and community leaders, to collaboratively address this issue; and

Whereas, Such a working group would provide valuable recommendations to improve demolition waste management practices, promote sustainability, and support Honolulu County's broader waste reduction goals; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi request the Department of Environmental Services of the City and County of Honolulu to convene a demolition waste reduction working group to assess current practices, identify opportunities for improvement, and propose actionable solutions to reduce C&D waste in Honolulu County in conformity with the Zero Waste Hierarchy, with a focus on preparing for the eventual closure of the PVT Land Company Ltd. landfill; and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi recommends that the working group should: (1) Evaluate the feasibility of recycling and reusing C&D materials; (2) Explore sustainable construction and deconstruction requirements to minimize waste generation; (3) Develop public awareness campaigns to promote waste reduction in the construction industry; (4) Recommend policies and incentives to encourage C&D waste reduction; and (5) Propose a phased plan to transition away from reliance on the PVT Land Company Ltd. landfill, ensuring adequate capacity for alternative waste management solutions; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for the island of Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, all members of the Honolulu City Council.t

Whereas, Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, located in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and legally within Honolulu County, spans over 583,000 square miles, making it one of the largest marine protected areas in the world and a critical ecological sanctuary; and

Whereas, President Donald J. Trump signed a proclamation as part of the America First Fishing Policy, which allows for the expansion of American commercial fishing in the Pacific Ocean, including the opening of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (PRIMNM) to commercial fishing, permitting U.S.-flagged vessels to fish commercially within 50 to 200 nautical miles of the PRIMNM's boundaries, and potentially setting a precedent for similar actions in other marine protected areas, including Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument; and

Whereas, During its closure, Papahānaumokuākea experienced increased aquatic life, including the recovery of endangered species such as Hawaiian monk seals, green sea turtles, and Laysan albatross, and flourishing coral reefs; and

Whereas, Opening Papahānaumokuākea to commercial fishing would disrupt pristine ecosystems, destroy vital nursery habitats, cause severe damage to coral reefs, and result in bycatch of endangered species, all of which undermine biodiversity and ecological balance; and

Whereas, Papahānaumokuākea supports over 7,000 species, a quarter of which are found nowhere else on Earth, and serves as a critical breeding ground for fish populations that sustain Pacific fisheries, making its protection essential for long-term sustainability; and

Whereas, Marine protected areas such as Papahānaumokuākea replenish nearby fisheries through the spillover effect, and compromising this natural process would harm commercial fisheries and Honolulu County's fishing community; and

Whereas, Honolulu County's reputation as a leader in conservation and eco-tourism would be severely tarnished, threatening tourism revenue and its role in sustainable environmental practices; and

Whereas, Papahānaumokuākea holds profound spiritual significance to Native Hawaiians, representing the realm of the gods and the origin of life, and exploiting it for short-term gain disregards traditional values and cultural heritage; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi strongly oppose the reopening of Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument to commercial fishing without abridging Native Hawaiian traditional gathering rights; and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi call upon the Honolulu City Council, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature, and the Governor of Hawaiʻi to take necessary measures to protect Papahānaumokuākea, including legal challenges and public advocacy; and be it

Resolved, That the Oʻahu County Democrats of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi commit to protecting Hawaivi's natural and cultural heritage for the benefit of Honolulu County residents and future generations; and be it

Ordered, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to President Donald Trump; Secretary of the Interior Doug Burnum; Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick; the Chair of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, the Chair of the Board of Land and Natural Resources, the Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Lt. Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, the Hawaiʻi Congressional Delegations, Hawaiʻi State Legislators for Oʻahu who are members of the Democratic Party, the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, and all members of the Honolulu City Council.