The City Council of Honolulu held a Special Budget Briefing on March 8, 2025, to discuss critical funding allocations for emergency services, particularly focusing on the establishment of a new ambulance service in the Manawili area.

During the meeting, council members emphasized the strategic importance of positioning an ambulance in Manawili. It was noted that this ambulance would serve as a primary backup for the Waimanalo, Kailua, and Kaneohe regions, effectively allowing for rapid response in three directions. The discussion highlighted the current challenges faced by town ambulances, which are often overwhelmed by calls, necessitating support from Kailua and Kaneohe units.

The proposed Manawili ambulance would not only serve its immediate community but also function as a "floater ambulance," capable of responding to emergencies across various hotspots, including areas from IEA to Kaimuki. This flexibility was seen as a significant advantage, enhancing the overall emergency response capability of the region.

Council members expressed strong support for the initiative, underscoring its potential benefits for community safety and emergency preparedness. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of this ambulance service, with plans to further explore funding options and implementation strategies in upcoming sessions.