Bill > HCR184

This Concurrent Resolution urges the Department of Health to make testing and researching fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) levels and other pollutants in the beach sand at Pokai Bay on Oahu's Leeward Coast a top priority, particularly within its non-point source pollution program. FIB are microorganisms that indicate the presence of fecal contamination, which can pose health risks. The resolution highlights that Pokai Bay, despite its popularity and scenic beauty, suffers from various pollution sources, including runoff, illegal dumping, and potential contamination from homeless individuals' activities and restroom facilities, leading to health issues like staph infections. It also calls for the Department of Health to develop a plan, in collaboration with other agencies, to improve water circulation at Pokai Bay to mitigate these risks and requests a report on these efforts to the Legislature. Furthermore, based on the testing results, the City and County of Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation is asked to prioritize renovations of the restroom facilities at Pokai Bay.