Council Shuts Down Economic Office | Honolulu News

Honolulu’s City Council just axed the Office of Economic Revitalization — a pandemic-era hub for small businesses and economic diversity — sparking a fiery showdown with Mayor Blangiardi, who called the move “reckless and shortsighted.” The council slashed 15 of 21 positions, gutting its ability to operate, while the mayor tried to save it via line-item veto — a move the council rejected, arguing it’s not how vetoes work. The mayor claims the council ignored vital input from the business community and nonprofits, opting instead to dismantle the office after an audit flagged slow progress and lack of transparency. The council, voting 6-2 to override the veto, insists accountability and efficiency are non-negotiable amid Honolulu’s mounting challenges — while the mayor defends the office’s crucial role in distributing millions in pandemic relief. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/116022276c34023f