Wayne E. Tello

This Six-Year Capital Improvement Program outlines the projected funding for research and development, renewal and replacement, and capacity expansion for fiscal years 2021-2026. The program aims to adequately meet system needs and the estimated water demand through strategic investments in these three core areas.

The meeting focused on water demand projections and future water sources as part of the Water Master Plan update process. Key discussion topics included an overview of historical islandwide water demand, an econometric demand model that considers climate and economic variables, and population projections. Participants discussed the impact of climate scenarios, including temperature and precipitation variability, on future water demand. Additionally, the group addressed the relationship between water rate increases, inflation, and their influence on consumption trends.

The council conducted a regular session covering a variety of municipal items, including appointments to various boards such as the Zoning Board of Appeals, Fire Commission, and Board of Water Supply. The agenda featured the introduction and first reading of several budget and tax-related bills for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, alongside legislative actions regarding public parks, transportation infrastructure, and housing incentives. Additionally, the council reviewed various gift acceptance resolutions for city departments, including the police and fire departments and the Honolulu Zoo, and considered authorizations for settling legal claims against the city.

The Board of Water Supply is holding a workshop meeting to discuss the proposed Operating and Capital Improvement Program Budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The session will include provisions for public testimony and information regarding access to meeting materials, remote viewing, and special accommodation requests.

The board meeting will address several action items, including the adoption of resolutions regarding the eminent domain acquisition of a portion of the Nahalekeha Subdivision, the acceptance of gifts for Detect-A-Leak Week and the Hawaiʻi Executive Collaborative convening, the authorization of a public hearing for the upcoming operating and capital improvement budget, and the adoption of the six-year capital improvement program. Informational items include an update on the response to Red Hill fuel contamination, an overview of metering and water service requirements, a briefing on Kona Low storm impacts, a status update on groundwater levels, and a report on water main repairs.