2026-09-23 Government Efficiency & Customer Services

The Honolulu City Council's Government Efficiency & Customer Services Committee convened on September 23, 2026, to receive an update from the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) on the HNL Build permitting platform. The presentation detailed the progress made since the platform's launch over a year ago, highlighting improvements in system stability, permit processing times, and user support. The department reported a 34% increase in permit applications and a 5% increase in permits issued, with ongoing efforts to reduce backlog and streamline workflows using technology such as AI-powered Civ Check. The committee discussed funding sources, including approximately $7.5 million invested with federal recovery funds, and the potential for future fee adjustments to sustain operations. Questions from councilmembers addressed permit review cycles, backlog reduction strategies, integration with other agencies, and the importance of continued funding and technology enhancements. No new contract awards or vendor selections were announced, but the meeting emphasized ongoing procurement-related investments in technology and system improvements to enhance government efficiency and customer service.