Honolulu Takes Action Against Squatter-Occupied Homes

An excavator commenced the cleanup of a notorious trash mound on Pensacola Street in Honolulu on Thursday, marking a significant step forward for frustrated neighbors who have long dealt with the unsightly and hazardous site. The property, once a house, had become a focal point of complaints due to its accumulation of debris and multiple fires, prompting repeated calls for city intervention. Neighborhood board member Formby acknowledged the challenges faced by the city in addressing such issues, citing resource constraints. The property, abandoned by its owner Yee, became a haven for homeless individuals, leading to two fires in 2020, as noted by former Makiki Neighborhood Board member Christopher Tipton. He described the site as a "tinderbox of trash," highlighting the dangers posed by similar abandoned properties in the area. Tipton also referenced another nearby abandoned building that has attracted squatters, further complicating the neighborhood's safety concerns. Honolulu's struggle with high housing costs has exacerbated the issue of homelessness, pushing individuals into unsafe structures. Formby emphasized the need for proactive measures, suggesting that acquiring abandoned properties before they deteriorate further would be a more effective solution. He pointed out that many of these properties accumulate fines that surpass their market value, complicating the city's ability to manage them. To expedite the resolution of such properties, the City and County of Honolulu has sought legislative approval for a nonjudicial foreclosure process, which would allow for quicker action against abandoned sites without the lengthy court proceedings. This initiative aims to alleviate the burden on neighboring property owners and reduce the costs associated with condemnation.