Committee approves CD1 of Bill 7 to expand signage opportunities for ground-floor businesses, lowers maximum size to 9 sq ft

The committee advanced Bill 7-20-26 (CD1), which would allow one sign per ground-floor establishment with building frontage in apartment and apartment mixed-use districts and reduce the maximum sign size to 9 square feet (from 12 sq ft) following the Planning Commission recommendation.

Small-business representatives testified in strong support. Lee Tokuhara of Dear Hearts in Hawaii said the change would help businesses in mixed-use developments (notably Hoopili) properly promote their products and services. Kieran Polk, executive director of the Kapolei Chamber of Commerce, said the measure benefits small businesses in West O'ahu and thanked Councilmember Tupelo for leading the effort. DPP staff planner Lina Pomsawan told the committee DPP supports the CD1, explaining the reduced size was a compromise to address Planning Commission concerns about overly large signs.

The chair recommended that Bill 7-20-26 (CD1) be reported out for passage on third reading and the committee agreed with no objections recorded.