Problem: A surge in gun violence along the Waiʻanae Coast in April 2025 prompted a press conference held less than 24 hours after a double shooting left two teens injured. Federal, State, City, and County of Honolulu leaders united to spread a common message: enough is enough.

Most recently, a shooting on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 in Makaha prompted a public statement from Westside leaders. 

Plan: We need a comprehensive public safety plan that incorporates community-based strategies to curb these rising incidents of violence. The Waianae Public Safety Plan seeks to establish a clear plan with detailed strategies to align leadership, key stakeholders, and the community. Key components of this plan include: 

• Start of the School Resource Officer (SRO) Program
• Creation of a "Safe & Sound Waianae" Program
• Support for Neighborhood Security Watches (NSWs)
• Funding for Waianae Corridor Improvements
• Legislation to Prevent Illegal Gamerooms
• Restoration of Public Beach Parks
• Improved Homelessness Services
• Greater Access to Mental Health Services

Short-Term Goal: Share the plan with the community and obtain support from leaders, stakeholders, and the public via petition.

Conclusion: We ask local government officials, law enforcement, and community leaders to collaborate on developing and implementing this policy statement for a safer Waianae. And to the community - we humbly ask you to sign this petition to show your support. Mahalo.

Andria Tupola - Honolulu City Councilmember, District I