NOTABLE MEASURES PASSED AND ADOPTED AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING ON MARCH 19, 2025
BILLS & RESOLUTIONS
● Bill 61 (2024), CD1 – Prohibiting the performance of “wheelies” on public roadways.
“Bill 61 promotes public safety and deters dangerous behavior on public roadways by prohibiting wheelies. The measure gives the Honolulu Police Department another tool to keep us safe by providing a broad definition of e-bikes and a clear standard. These stunts are not only dangerous for the riders, but also pose significant risks to pedestrians and other drivers. By taking this action, we are proactively working to reduce high-risk behaviors that could lead to life-threatening crashes.” – Council Vice Chair Matt Weyer & Co-Introducer
“E-bike accidents have become increasingly common across the island, and many concerned constituents have contacted me about the growing and dangerous trend of performing wheelies on our streets. This bill prohibiting wheelies aims to directly address these reckless behaviors and sends a strong message that the safety of our community is an absolute priority. We are committed to addressing the rising tide of e-bike-related injuries, as well as other two-wheeled vehicles as not all motorized bikes are classified as e-bikes, especially those affecting younger riders, by continuing to push for education, enforcement, and safer riding practices.” – Councilmember & Co-Introducer Radiant Cordero
● Bill 1 (2025) – Authorizing outdoor dining services in certain public places.
“The City’s Outdoor Dining Services Program has been a tremendous success since its inception as a pilot program in 2022. We've seen benefits like crime reduction, business growth, and more activation of our streets and sidewalks. Bill 1 (2025) makes this program permanent and also makes key changes including streamlined permitting processes and better coordination with city services, so it's easier for more businesses to participate. This common-sense program which boosted sales and decreased crime has been embraced by businesses, customers, and residents. I look forward to seeing more restaurants create outdoor dining options that are unique to each and every community.” – Councilmember & Co-Introducer Tyler Dos Santos-Tam
● Resolution 25-42 – Urging the City Administration to provide unlawful gambling room prevention and reporting programs.
“Resolution 25-42 is a proactive measure that comes directly out of the report from the Task Force on Gambling Rooms, which highlighted the need for a community-based solution to the issue of illegal game rooms. By urging the City Administration to create public outreach programs, we aim to prevent unlawful gambling room activity and empower our residents to be part of the solution. Illegal gambling rooms are a serious threat to our neighborhoods, and the criminal activities associated with them – ranging from drugs and prostitution to human trafficking and violent crime – are unacceptable. It's clear that responding to illegal gambling rooms as they arise isn't enough; we need a proactive solution to keep them from coming back and ensure our communities stay safe.” – Councilmember & Co-Introducer Andria Tupola
“Resolution 25-42 highlights the need for a community-driven solution to the issue of illegal game rooms. These illegal operations are widespread across Oʻahu, impacting not just those who participate but also the surrounding communities. Many illegal gambling rooms are situated near schools and residential neighborhoods, having a direct impact on children and families. To address this problem effectively, educational outreach is essential for long-term success – promoting awareness, reducing gambling-related harm, and shielding our communities from the dangerous consequences of illegal gambling operations.” – Councilmember & Co-Introducer Scott Nishimoto
● Resolution 25-48, CD1 – Urging the City Administration to create an Oʻahu Tourism Strategic Plan.
“This resolution urges the City Administration to create an Oʻahu Tourism Strategic Plan focused on regenerative and sustainable tourism, honoring Native Hawaiian culture, and using new technologies and economic strategies. Oʻahu is known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage, which makes tourism a vital part of our economy. However, we must rethink how we approach tourism in a way that protects our environment, supports our communities, and values our culture. By developing a thoughtful and inclusive tourism plan, we can ensure that Oʻahu remains a thriving, sustainable place for future generations.” – Councilmember and Introducer Esther Kiaʻāina
● Resolution 25-56, CD1 – Establishing a permitted interaction group to discuss and explore the potential use of tax increment financing.
For a complete listing of measures or to view the hearing, go to https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/ or visit Council's YouTube channel
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The Honolulu City Council is the lawmaking body of the City and County of Honolulu and determines policies and programs for the City. The Council is responsible for serving and advancing the general welfare, health, happiness, and safety of the land and our communities. Learn more at www.honolulucitycouncil.org/
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Honolulu City Council
(808) 768-5094
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