DTS proposes dynamic pricing, sensors and deferred‑maintenance fund in parking overhaul; public gives mixed reactions

The Department of Transportation Services asked the committee to consider Bill 78, a proposed ordinance to modernize Honolulu’s parking rate structure, allow modest quarterly adjustments tied to occupancy and direct revenue toward deferred maintenance on parking garages.

Director Roger Morton and Chris Clark (chief planner, DTS) said the proposal would simplify the ordinance’s complex tables, expand smart‑meter and pay‑station technology, pilot sensor-based electronic citation and use pricing as a tool to increase on‑street turnover and shift longer‑stay drivers into garages. Clark described a quarterly adjustment mechanism that would change rates in 25¢ increments based on recent occupancy thresholds, with on‑street rates proposed between $4 and $8 and off‑street minimums of $2 to encourage garage use. He said data show uneven compliance and high nonpayment rates in some areas, and that the city faces roughly $100 million in deferred parking facility maintenance.

Councilmembers asked how the public would be notified and whether rates would vary by time of day. Clark said changes would be made only every three months with advance public notice and visible meter/pay‑station displays; off‑street lots already use some time‑of‑day pricing. Several members asked DTS to supply clearer maps and legends and to analyze impacts on low‑income residents.

Public testimony was split. Jolie Tokusato (Local 5) urged deferral, saying new meters in neighborhoods would hurt working households who rely on cars and called the proposal “nickeling and diming us to death.” Micah Munakata (Ulupono Initiative) testified in support, saying pricing tools used in other U.S. jurisdictions reduce congestion and improve access for businesses.

The committee did not take action; members requested additional materials including clearer maps, equity impact analysis and more public outreach before further action.