Hawaii News Now reported that the city formerly picked up more than 100 tons of bulky items monthly in Waikiki.

Last month it was less than 20 tons. Anecdotal and news reports suggest this is typical of other neighborhoods.

So far, this new system has resulted in scheduling snafus, more illegal dumping, an estimated 80% less trash being picked up and an abundance of trash left on the streets, leaving Honolulu less livable and attractive for residents and tourists.

Have there been cost savings or, with workers comparing the items against a list at each stop, is it less efficient and costing even more than previously?

Was this process well thought-out and planned before implementation?

Mayor Kirk Caldwell owes Honolulu residents a detailed account of the expected benefits in effectiveness, efficiency and cost in dollars.

Unfortunately, we are already painfully aware of this fiasco’s cost in quality of life.

Michael Ho

Moanalua Valley

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