Hilo, Hawai‘i – Mayor Mitch Roth is facing criticism after his response to a recent sewage spill into Hawaiiʻs oceans from the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant, which left residents, campers, beachgoers, and environmentalists deeply concerned about Mayor’s Roths commitment to water quality and public safety.

The incident, triggered by a failure in the chlorination process on June 21, 2024, resulted in the discharge of partially treated sewage into waters throughout a majority of Keaukaha oceanfront. Following the spill, the Hawai‘i Department of Health issued a public advisory urging people to avoid the affected areas until further notice. Signs were later posted to warn residents and visitors about potential health risks.

In his official statement, Mayor Mitch Roth downplayed the severity of the incident, referring to it as an “isolated incident” and assuring the community that such occurrences “should not repeat itself.” This response has been met with skepticism and anger from locals who feel that the Mayor’s remarks trivialize the potential environmental and public health impacts of the sewage discharge.

“Our team has conducted a thorough investigation of the incident,” stated Mayor Roth, attempting to reassure the public. “The discharge went through the secondary treatment level, and no significant impacts on the shoreline ecosystem are anticipated”

Critics argue that Mayor Roth’s reassurances are insufficient, pointing out that the incident could have serious consequences for marine life and public health. They emphasize the need for stricter monitoring and more robust measures to prevent such spills in the future.

“The Mayor’s response lacks accountability and fails to acknowledge the gravity of the situation,” voiced a concerned resident, reflecting the sentiments of many in the community. “We need proactive leadership that prioritizes environmental protection and public health over bureaucratic assurances.”

Further, concern arose from Mayor Roth not notifying the public of the danger sooner. The Mayor’s office notified the Hawaii Department of Health as well as the public 2 days after the reported failure. Resulting in such comments from the public as “WTH! 2 days.. it’s summer and all the families at down there camping and swimming.”

Despite the cancellation of the water quality advisory on June 25, 2024, questions linger about the adequacy of the response and the effectiveness of current wastewater management practices in Hilo. Local activists and environmental groups are calling for a thorough review of protocols and increased transparency from city officials.

As the community continues to demand accountability, the aftermath of this sewage spill serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for robust environmental stewardship and better proactive governance in Hawai‘i.