Every year, during the rainy season, I watch the news and feel a growing sense of helplessness as families across Oahu battle floods that invade their homes, destroy their cherished possessions, and turn their lives upside down. The footage doesn't just show water; it shows heartbreak. Heartbreak due to a problem that remains unaddressed - our outdated storm drainage systems.

Many areas in Oahu have storm drains that were designed decades ago, long before our current understanding of climate change and increased rainfall levels. These older drains simply cannot handle the volume of water they face today. It's a problem leading residents to face significant property damage, displacement, and even health risks due to mold and unsanitary conditions that arise post-flooding.

In 2022 alone, significant rainfall events resulted in hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages across Oahu, impacting low-income families the most, who often lack the resources to make necessary repairs or relocate. And the tragedy is that these events are often preventable with the right infrastructure upgrades.

We are calling on the City and County of Honolulu to prioritize the installation of larger, more efficient storm drains in these vulnerable communities. By investing in modern infrastructure, we can reduce the catastrophic impacts of flooding, protect homes, and preserve the well-being of our residents.

This is not just about mitigating natural disasters; it's about ensuring our neighborhoods remain safe, livable, and thriving for generations to come. Let's stand together to push for this significant change.

Please sign this petition to urge the local government to act swiftly and invest in the future of Oahu's residents and infrastructure.