HI HR97

Urges the Mayor and City Council of Honolulu to prioritize upgrading existing sewer systems in high-population census-designated areas before constructing new sewer projects.

Cites the 2006 sewage spill of 48 million gallons of raw sewage into Ala Wai Canal as evidence of critical failures in Honolulu's aging and undersized sewer infrastructure.

Directs sewer fee increases collected from ratepayers to be used for repairs and improvements to existing systems rather than new construction projects.

Calls for rehabilitation and replacement of main sewer pipes, implementation of backup strategies, cleaning and maintenance programs, plant facility upgrades, and pump station repairs in Honolulu's urban core.