Spotlight Now: Honolulu’s mayor, and parks and recreation deputy directorOn this episode of Spotlight Now, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi says he’s still pushing forward with a proposed landfill in Central Oahu. He also addresses affordable housing, Honolulu’s rail project, and staffing challenges at the city. As for the University of Hawaii’s search for a new athletics director, Blangardi says it's a job he would seek himself, if he were not mayor.
Up next, we’re joined by Ted Hayden, deputy director of the city Department of Parks and Recreation. He says the city’s public spaces are a priority for residents, and the department is focusing on creating equity across the island. Vandalism is an issue at public park facilities, and costs the city between $300,000 and $400,000 a year, not including fires or severe destruction, he said.