Aloha Friends and Neighbors

My heart goes out to all the families that have been impacted by the devastating wildfires in Lahaina. The scale of destruction and loss of life are difficult to fathom, but I am encouraged by the strength and resilience of the communities who have come together in the wake of this tragedy. The City and County of Honolulu stands in solidarity with Lahaina, and we are committed to aiding in Maui’s recovery however we can.

I am proud to announce the successful signing of Bill 4 (2023), which relates to the Energy Code. This achievement was the result of extensive collaboration between the City, housing providers, and clean energy advocates, all aiming to keep our housing costs down while advancing our state’s energy conservation and sustainability goals. By bringing these stakeholders together, we achieved an amicable and workable consensus that will benefit both our residents and the environment. I am grateful for the hard work and dedication of all those involved in this process.

I would also like to rehighlight the passage of Bills 37 and 40 (2022) in light of the upcoming deadline. Bill 37 (2022) raises the low-income tax credit to $80,000, meaning homeowner occupants making a combined income of $80,000 or less are entitled to a maximum property tax payment of no more than 3% of their income. Bill 40 (2022) increases the standard home-owner occupant exemption amounts for those who do not qualify for the low-income tax credit. I also introduced Bill 34 (2023), which would increase the home-owner occupant exemption to $250,000, or $300,000 for those 65 years of age or older. If passed this would apply to tax years beginning July 1, 2025. Visit https://www.realpropertyhonolulu.com/ to find information on how to file for exemptions or credits. Please be advised that the deadline for filing exemption claims and tax credit applications is September 30th.

Finally, a quick update on two bills previously mentioned in last month’s article – Bills 46 and 47 (2023). Bill 46 would phase out flavored tobacco products on Oʻahu once the state removes the preemption restriction, and Bill 47 would allow residents to discard manufactured compostables as part of the City’s curbside recycling program. Both of these bills are still in motion, so I encourage community members who are interested in these issues to please submit testimony.

I always appreciate hearing from you. Please email me at mweyer@honolulu.gov or call our office at 808-768-5002 if you have any concerns or ideas about how to support and uplift our community.