Bad behavior by Honolulu City Councilmembers is such a concern, members themselves want to change the city charter to increase punishment for rule-breakers.  They also want to send a strong message to community and one another.

"We members should behave, behave, behave. That is the bottom line. Any member who is not behaving properly compromises the integrity of the council," said Councilman Romy Cachola.

A resolution went before a council committee that would change the rules on order and decorum along with calling for harsher penalties.

"I don't think there is ever a situation where we can justify bad behavior, especially as elected officials," said Councilman Breene Harimoto.

According to the resolution, disorderly or contemptuous behavior could permit the council to suspend any Councilmember, without pay, for one month.

But some members questioned whether they should be the ones removing elected officials from office, even temporarily.

"I believe it is up to the electorate that elects each one of us to hold us accountable for our actions," said Councilman Ikaika Anderson.

The resolution also clarified order and decorum rules during meetings.

Councilmembers have to be recognized before speaking, confine remarks to the topic under discussion and avoid using abusive language.

In the past, Councilman Tom Berg has been accused of breaking all of those rules.