Honolulu Charter Commission

Komikina Palapala Hoʻokumu

What is the City Charter?

The Revised Charter of the City and County of Honolulu is the founding document of Honolulu’s municipal government including its functions like our city’s constitution.

It provides the guiding policy on how the Mayor, City Council, and departments operate, how decisions are made, and how services are delivered.

The Charter Commission is a 13-member body appointed by the Mayor and the City Council every 10 years.

The Commission is tasked with identifying outdated language, inefficiencies, and opportunities to improve how the City and County of Honolulu serves its people.

Any changes the Commission recommends will appear as questions on the November 2026 ballot, and voters will have the final say.

What is the Charter Commission?

Upcoming Events

Attend a Community Information Session in your area to learn more about the Charter and how you can get involved.

  1. Neal S. Blaisdell Center

    - Wednesday, October 8, 6 PM - Pikake Room

  2. Kaiser High School

    – Thursday, October 9, 6 PM – School Cafeteria

  3. Waipahu High School

    – Monday, October 13, 6 PM – School Cafeteria

  4. Windward Community College

    – Tuesday, October 14, 6 PM

  5. Nānākuli Public Library

    – Wednesday, October 15, 7 PM

  6. Mililani High School

    – Thursday, October 16, 6 PM – School Cafeteria

  7. Sunset Beach Elementary School

    – Friday, October 17, 7 PM – School Cafeteria

  8. Salt Lake District Park

    – Tuesday, October 21, 6 PM

  9. Online Zoom (Islandwide)

    - Wednesday, October 22, 6 PM (link coming soon)

Timeline

Aug 4 – Nov 7, 2025:
Proposal submission period

Dec 2025 – Apr 2026:
Public review & hearings

May – Jul 2026:
Final proposals selected

Aug – Oct 2026:
Voter education & outreach

Nov 3, 2026:
General Election Day – You vote!

Submit & View Proposals

Submission period: August 4 — November 7, 2025

WHAT CAN YOU PROPOSE?

ANY IDEAS THAT:
» Improve how the City serves its residents
» Make government more transparent, efficient, or accountable
» Strengthen ethics, climate action, public participation, or equity
» Clarify roles or responsibilities in the Charter

Our Resources

Stay informed and get involved in shaping the future of Honolulu!

This brochure outlines the timeline, key information, and how you can participate in the City Charter Amendment process. Download now to learn how to submit your proposals, attend community meetings, and make your voice heard.

Join Our Email List

Sign up to receive notifications regarding meetings of the Honolulu Charter Commission.

You’ll receive agendas, schedules, and participation opportunities directly in your inbox.

The next Honolulu Charter Commission meeting will be on

Monday, September 22 at 2:30 P.M.

in the City Council Chamber at Honolulu Hale.