The City Council of Honolulu held a Special Budget Briefing on March 8, 2025, focusing on significant funding allocations for various public safety and technology upgrades. The meeting outlined a comprehensive budget proposal aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) and improving technology infrastructure.

The briefing began with a discussion on a proposed $640,000 allocation for long-term scalable storage and upgrades to Microsoft 365 for city computers. This investment is intended to facilitate ongoing upgrades through a leasing program, which is viewed as more beneficial than outright purchases that may quickly become outdated.

A substantial portion of the budget, totaling $1.8 million, is earmarked for upgrades to the department's Taser equipment, transitioning to the new Taser 10 model, which promises enhanced safety for officers. Additionally, $2.8 million is allocated for service upgrades to the department's weapon systems, which will include modern features such as red dot sights and flashlights.

The council also addressed the need for training ammunition, with an allocation of $800,000 to support officer training as they transition to new service revolvers. The overall equipment budget reflects a significant increase, attributed to a backlog of projects delayed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A critical item discussed was the $7.5 million budget for replacing outdated P25 radio systems, which are no longer supported by the manufacturer. The council emphasized the urgency of this replacement to ensure reliable communication for officers.

Furthermore, $6.3 million is designated for the replacement of patrol vehicles, with a focus on maintaining a fleet that does not exceed ten years in service. The briefing highlighted the logistical challenges faced by officers, including the need for double shifts due to a shortage of vehicles, which has led to increased repair costs.

The meeting concluded with a mention of a $1 million allocation for a firearms application online system, a response to a lawsuit concerning delays in processing applications for permits and licenses.

Overall, the Special Budget Briefing underscored the city's commitment to enhancing public safety through strategic investments in technology and equipment, addressing both immediate needs and long-term operational efficiency.