A Safer, More Compassionate Community: A Two-Year Plan to Address Homelessness & Public Safety in District 26
Across our State, we see the reality of crisis daily: families sleeping near streams, kūpuna navigating sidewalks in fear, and working residents who no longer feel safe walking in their neighborhoods. But safety and compassion must go hand in hand. Homelessness is not a moral failing or a crime; it’s a public health and housing crisis. For too long, our state has relied on short-term enforcement rather than long-term solutions.
We've Waited Long Enough — It's Time to Act with Compassion and Courage
Over the years, we have witnessed a range of thoughtful solutions proposed, yet many have encountered challenges in hearings, been removed from budgets, or been set aside in favor of short-term enforcement measures. As a result, our neighbors continue to face difficulties, and our communities may feel less secure and hopeful. This situation does not arise from a lack of ideas; rather, it reflects a need for greater follow-through and the political will to implement lasting change.
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SB869 (2023) would have expanded Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) statewide, but it was stuck in committee.
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HB1312 (2019) proposed 24/7 Navigation Centers—deferred without action.
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SB2697 (2016) called for a shift from sit-lie bans to Housing First, but was blocked before it could receive a full hearing.
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HB310 (2015) sought increased Housing First funding, which was cut from the final budget.
We have explored the use of sweeps and citations; however, these approaches have not effectively addressed homelessness or helped restore trust, security, and dignity in our communities. What we have yet to implement on a larger scale entirely is a public health-centered, community-led approach to public safety that prioritizes the well-being and dignity of all individuals.
What I’ll Work Toward Within Two Years — With You, Not Without You
When I am elected, I plan to take immediate and proactive steps rather than waiting for the ideal legislative solution or enduring another decade of inaction. My approach will involve engaging closely with residents, local nonprofits, and government partners to identify and implement effective solutions that address the community's needs. I am committed to fostering collaborative efforts that prioritize the well-being and dignity of individuals, ensuring that our initiatives focus on rehabilitation, support, and constructive outcomes instead of punitive measures. Together, we can create a safer and more inclusive environment for all.
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Launch a District 26 Housing Outreach Team (HOT) comprising social workers, health professionals, and housing navigators to provide consistent, compassionate outreach in areas such as Kanaha Stream, Papakōlea, and Makiki.
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Fund a 24/7 Navigation Center pilot near critical corridors, such as Thomas Square or Queen’s Medical, offering restrooms, meals, case management, and direct housing connections.
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Introduce legislation for transitional housing focused on those too often left behind, LGBTQ+ youth, kūpuna, and those reentering society.
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Pass the “Housing Not Handcuffs” reforms to replace sit-lie bans with proven alternatives, such as street outreach, restorative engagement, and mental health services.
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Establish a Community Safety Mini-Grant Program for residents to organize neighborhood lighting upgrades, cleanups, safe park zones, and watch groups.
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Support non-law enforcement crisis response teams to respond to mental health and substance use calls with care, not cuffs.
In two years, we have an excellent opportunity to restore dignity, rebuild trust, and collaboratively redefine safety. Progress is within our reach. Still, it relies on strong leadership that is prepared to take decisive action, as well as a community that is eager to unite and uplift one another. Together, we can create meaningful change.
Hawaii Perspective Report 2024