Chinatown businesses hit by theft amid city cleanup efforts

Honolulu (KHON2) — Honolulu’s Chinatown is an important hub for merchants, but some business owners say theft and other illegal activities are still a problem despite the city’s efforts to clear the area. It is said that City officials said improving Chinatown remains a priority.

Business owners said theft, drug problems and some homelessness still affect Chinatown. Her Annette Tieu, an employee at Dana’s Shop, said she had experienced several thefts at her own store.

Tieu says: we were robbed ”

Dana’s Shop inside Mauna Kea Marketplace closed before sunset for safety reasons. Other shops like Cindy’s Lei and Flower Shoppe keep their security cameras up to date and look out for each other.

Cindy Lei’s Manager Karen Lee said: And I will close up what you should always be aware of.

Some merchants have noticed a difference in cleanliness, with fewer people sleeping on the sidewalks, but Jonathan Cook, chairman of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, said more police and city cleaning have helped. But it’s still a complicated issue.

“It’s still a good place to go shopping during the day. That’s fine,” Cook said. “But I think people need to understand that there’s more that needs to be cleaned up. It’s been a tough road and we’re not there yet.”

Anton Crookey, director of the city’s Department of Community Services, said the city recently expanded the Chinatown Task Force. He added that this year they plan to open a temporary residential village.

“We raised $12 million for the council to run the village,” says Krucky. “We will launch them soon. We just got the money. And now I am already talking. We can arrange the bed.”

Sites include one on Middle Street, another on Waianae, and a third on Waimanalo.

Installation of new security cameras has also been delayed, but shipments have begun.

Krucky said: But I think there are broader plans for installing cameras in towns. ”

Business owners said the Chinese New Year celebrations have brought many families to the lively and safe event. This was a positive sign for many families.