2026-05-19 Budget

The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee convened on May 19, 2026, to discuss multiple budget-related resolutions involving fund transfers and appropriations across various city departments. Key procurement and budgetary actions included approval of a $1.5 million transfer within the Department of Environmental Services for disaster debris efforts related to recent storms, and a transfer of approximately $1.5 million to cover increased energy costs for facility maintenance and automotive services. The Honolulu Police Department requested an additional $4,000 to cover a shortfall in vehicle procurement costs for community policing teams, with the procurement process underway pending approval. The Department of Transportation Services sought a $1 million transfer to address increased fuel costs due to rising prices, and the Police Department requested a $5.5 million transfer to cover salary deficits primarily from overtime and recruitment incentives. Additional transfers were approved to cover increased utility, fuel, and operational costs for the Fire Department, Emergency Medical Services, and other city agencies, largely driven by unforeseen events such as the Kona Low storms and rising fuel prices. The committee also confirmed the reappointment of Dr. Peter Young to the Board of Review for real property tax appeals, with discussions highlighting challenges faced by property owners and potential legislative improvements. All resolutions were amended as proposed and reported out for adoption without objections.