August 2026: 'Ewa Beach Report

As summer comes to a close and a new school year begins, I want to wish all of our students, teachers, school staff, and families a safe, successful, and rewarding year ahead.

Back-to-school season is an exciting time for our community, but it also brings increased activity on our roads as more keiki walk, bike, ride scooters, and cross intersections each day. With two of Hawaiʻi’s largest public schools located in District 9, I encourage everyone to slow down, stay alert, and use extra care in and around school zones. A few extra minutes on the road can make all the difference in helping our children arrive safely at school and return home.

Parents and caregivers can help children start the school year strong by establishing healthy routines, reviewing safe routes to school, and keeping emergency contact information current. As more students choose bicycles and e-bikes for transportation, it is also important to remember Hawaiʻi’s e-bike safety laws. Riders must be at least 15 years old to operate an e-bike, and anyone under 18 must wear a helmet. Everyone should ride responsibly by following traffic laws, avoiding wheelies, and never carrying extra passengers. These same safety reminders apply to scooters, skateboards, and other personal mobility devices.

Mahalo to the many District 9 residents who joined my team and the Honolulu Police Department for our annual Back to School sign-waving campaign. Your support reminds drivers that keeping our keiki safe is a shared responsibility. Together, we can create safer streets and a stronger community.

Public safety remains a shared responsibility, and we highlight the important work of CrimeStoppers Honolulu in helping residents safely provide information that can assist law enforcement while protecting their anonymity. Partnerships like these help make our neighborhoods stronger and safer.

We also take a look back at Hawaiʻi’s cycling history by honoring Waipahu’s own James Moniz, a champion “pedal pusher” whose determination, humility, and perseverance helped inspire generations of athletes.

Thank you for your continued partnership and for everything you do to make District 9 a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. My team and I remain committed to listening to our community, supporting local leaders and businesses, and working together to build safer neighborhoods, stronger connections, and a brighter future for all.