The Honolulu City Council meeting on June 7, 2025, focused on proposed increases to sewer fees, with significant discussions surrounding the duration and percentage of the hikes. The budget committee had initially proposed a 7-year plan, but some council members advocated for a shorter 5-year timeline to ease the financial burden on residents.

Council Member Dos Santos Tam introduced a version suggesting a 6.75% increase over five years, while other versions were also presented for consideration. The council agreed to vote on the proposals sequentially, starting with Dos Santos Tam's version. If it did not pass, they would then consider the alternative proposals.

Public testimony highlighted concerns from residents about the impact of these fee increases on low-income households. Testifiers urged the council to consider more affordable options, suggesting a maximum increase of 5% over six years. Many expressed that the proposed increases could exacerbate financial hardships, especially for families already struggling with rising costs of living.

Several council members echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that addresses necessary infrastructure improvements while minimizing the financial strain on residents. They discussed the importance of working with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to explore alternative funding sources and to ensure compliance with federal mandates without imposing excessive costs on the community.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from council members to continue discussions on the proposed fee structures and to seek ways to alleviate the financial impact on residents while fulfilling the city's infrastructure obligations. The council's next steps will involve further deliberation on the proposed amendments and potential adjustments to the fee increase plans.