Council Chair Waters and Vice Chair Kiaʻāina Introduce Charter Amendment and Bill Prohibiting Outside Employment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 26, 2023

HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI - Council Chair Tommy Waters and Vice Chair Esther Kiaʻāina have introduced Resolution 23-109 for a charter amendment and Bill 33 (2023) aimed at ensuring the undivided attention and commitment of Councilmembers to their important roles as public servants. The proposed legislation seeks to prohibit Councilmembers from holding outside employment while in office, reinforcing their dedication to serving the community and upholding the highest standards of transparency and integrity.

Chair Waters emphasized, “as elected officials, it is our duty to prioritize the needs of the community above outside interests. Councilmembers should not have divided interests, and these measures are intended to increase public trust by eliminating outside employment.  In the past, there have been a number of ethical violations, and these measures are intended to address that.  I remain committed to the people of Oʻahu, ensuring that we remain fully dedicated to the kuleana entrusted to us.”

The Honolulu City Council plays a vital role in representing the voices and concerns of approximately one million Oʻahu residents. Councilmembers are elected by the community and bear significant responsibilities and obligations that directly impact the lives of residents. From drafting and enacting ordinances to reviewing budgets and addressing constituent issues and concerns, their commitment is paramount in shaping the laws, policies, and budgets of the City.

“Local families deserve our dedication and focus as we navigate the critical issues facing our community. By introducing these measures, we are putting forth proposals to reaffirm our commitment to serving the public with transparency, accountability, and integrity. I want to hear from the community whether they think prohibiting outside employment will help reinforce the integrity of our decision-making processes and promote public trust in our government,” said Vice Chair Kiaʻāina. 

Under the proposed legislation, Councilmembers will be required to devote their full attention, time, and energy to their public service.  Chair Waters stated, “If approved by the Council and voters, Resolution 23-109 would amend our Charter, which is like our Constitution and much harder to change in the future.”

Bill 33 would create an ordinance that would go into effect January 1, 2024, which is a year prior to the Charter amendment.  Vice Chair Kiaʻāina stated, “I have heard the community dialogue on the topic of outside employment of councilmembers, and Bill 33 would be the swiftest way for a ban on outside employment to go into effect.” 

Both Chair and Vice Chair would like to encourage the public to testify on this important issue at the June 7th full council meeting.

Waters represents City Council District 4, which includes Hawai‘i Kai, Kuli‘ou‘ou, Niu Valley, ‘Āina Haina, Wailupe, Wai‘alae Iki, Kalani Valley, Kāhala, Wilhemina Rise, Kaimukī, Kapahulu, Diamond Head, and Waikīkī. 

Kiaʻāina represents City Council District 3, which includes ʻĀhuimanu, Heʻeia, Haʻikū, Kāneʻohe, Maunawili, Kailua, Olomana, Enchanted Lake and Waimānalo.

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