HONOLULU – August 16, 2012 – Honolulu City Councilmember Tulsi Gabbard today announced her resignation from the Honolulu City Council effective immediately.
“I arrived at this decision after careful consideration of what is in the best interest of taxpayers and putting the people of Hawaii first,” Gabbard said.
She noted holding a special mail-in election for a vacated Council seat would cost taxpayers up to $150,000.
“I have been honored to serve the constituents of district six, but I will not leave taxpayers to foot the bill for a separate special election. Instead, by resigning now, a new council member will be selected during the Nov. 6 general election,” Gabbard said.
Gabbard is also in receipt of a legal opinion stating that in order to meet timing requirements set forth by the State Office of Elections for the General Election, she should resign immediately to allow time for the Council to take action and candidates to file nomination papers before General Election ballots are printed.
“Serving the people of my district was truly an honor and a privilege,” said Gabbard. “I want to assure my constituents in District 6 that my staff will continue to provide them with the same high level of service that we have provided since I took office. My colleagues, including Council Chair Ernie Martin, will ensure that District 6 is well taken care of during this time of transition.”
The special election will allow voters in District 6 to select an interim City Council member to serve the remainder of Gabbard’s term. District 6 currently includes portions of Makiki and Kalihi, Downtown Honolulu, Punchbowl, Liliha, Pauoa Valley, Nuuanu, Alewa Heights, Papakolea, Kalihi Valley, Moanalua Gardens, Moanalua Valley, Halawa Heights and Aiea Heights.
For more information, go to www.OurHonolulu.org.