Homelessness is a problem that has plagued Oahu, especially Waikiki.
Saturday, lawmakers and residents met to find solutions to solve the problem.
Some of the solutions discussed were to designate specific areas where homeless could stay overnight and or restrict parking near Kapiolani Park.
Considered the gateway to our islands, Waikiki is one of the top resort destinations and the reason why many visit our islands.
But when visitors see tents on our beaches and homeless people sleeping in our parks, the beauty fades away.
"I think we have to reclaim the beach properties especially for all the people in Hawaii," said Jo-Ann Adams, a member of the Waikiki Neighborhood Board.
It's been one year since the city launched Malama o Waikiki to better maintain facilities near Kapiolani Park.
Adams says since the project launched, the homeless problem has worsened.
"They have cleaned up the facilities a little bit and the nature of the homeless have changed. Instead of just sleeping out in the open they now have full tents," she said.
"If they want us out of here they have to find some place for us to go 'cause we have no place to go," said homeless Steven Rente.
Representative Tom Brower has introduced a bill to create homeless safe zones, designated areas for homeless to set up tents at night and pack up during the day.
"I think without spending much money we can designate some areas where the homeless can be," said Representative Tom Brower, (D) Waikiki/Ala Moana.
"The thing that I like about the safe zones is that if it's a controlled area then you can again, you can focus the city's energies on sorting out people, getting people help," said Adams.
Adams noticed when the Honolulu Marathon set up their finish line at Kapiolani Park many of the homeless tents disappeared.
She was told the reason why was because parking was restricted in the area.
"If they won't stay there because they can't park there maybe the simpler solution is you can't park on that oceanfront property on either side from some hour to some hour," said Adams.
Adams says she is aware of how parking restrictions could hurt businesses.
"We don't want to have a negative effect on the local businesses but I think if we made it from even 3 to 6 so that you prevent sleeping overnight," said Adams.
Adams says if the homeless safe zones resolution does not pass, parking restrictions in the area could be another solution considered by the Waikiki Neighborhood Board.
Have a news tip? Email Vanessa Stewart at vstewart@khon2.com or call 591-4209.
