On November 17, 2025, MCBH experienced a temporary electrical failure in the secondary clarifier at its Wastewater Reclamation Facility (WRF), resulting in a release of effluent exceeding permit limitations for bacteria. The electrical short has been repaired and facility operations have returned to normal. The released effluent, which mixes with treated effluent from the City and County of Honolulu’s Kailua Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant, discharges approximately two miles offshore at a depth of 110 feet into the natural mixing zone of the ocean. The risk of direct exposure to the public is extremely low.

In coordination with the Hawaii Department of Health’s Clean Water Branch, MCBH is continuing daily water sampling to monitor the situation. Increased monitoring will remain in place as MCBH’s effluent quality returns to normal levels.

MCBH is actively working to enhance the WRF through extensive upgrades, which will provide the following benefits:

• Increased capacity to maintain operations during scheduled maintenance and unscheduled repairs.
• Enhanced ability to meet or exceed water quality and disinfection standards.
• Implementation of new water reuse capabilities, reducing overall water consumption on base.
• Design improvements to ensure compliance with tsunami resilience requirements.

MCBH remains committed to environmental stewardship and transparency. We will continue to keep the community informed as we resolve this issue and strengthen the resilience of our facilities.