Farmers Markets in Parks

At a glance

What: Bill 30 (2026), relating to public parks, allows farmers markets and similar community uses to activate underutilized parks, part of a parks package developed with the Department of Parks and Recreation.
Where it stands: passed third reading September 9, 2026 as CD1, 9-0.
Why: Tupola said markets create gathering places that help counter vandalism and illegal camping while supporting local agriculture and food security. She said the department identified several underutilized parks that can be reactivated without displacing current recreation, with public access preserved and nonprofits able to use sites for things like emergency food distribution.

Second reading, July 8: 7-0 (absent Nishimoto, Tulba); Tupola moved, Cordero seconded.
Third reading, September 9: Tupola moved committee report 224(26), Tulba seconded; Armstrong testified in support.
Related: Parks Funding Reform and Cultural Sites in Public Parks.

City Council journal (minutes), regular meeting of July 8, 2026 (adopted August 12, 2026): https://hnldoc.ehawaii.gov/hnldoc/document-download?id=28796
City Council journal (draft minutes, not yet adopted), regular meeting of September 9, 2026: https://hnldoc.ehawaii.gov/hnldoc/document-download?id=29318

Passed third reading 9-0.

Passed second reading, as amended to CD1, 7-0.