Kaimuki Neighborhood Board Minutes Posted for July 17, 2013 Meeting

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Kaimuki Neighborhood Board Minutes Posted for July 17, 2013 Meeting
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Next meeting is 8/21/2013- Read the agenda. . Click here.

Courtesy of Neighborhood Commission Office

Source Neighborhood Commission Office

Kaimuki Neighborhood Board No. 4

DRAFT MEMORANDUM FOR THE RECORD

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17, 2013

KAIMUKI CHRISTIAN CHURCH FELLOWSHIP HALL

CALL TO ORDER: Chair pro tem Lori Yamada called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. with five (5) members present. Quorum was not established. Note -- This 11 member Board requires six (6) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.

Members Present: Brian Kang, Russell McGuire, Marilyn Moniz-Kahoohanohano, Sharon Schneider, and Lori Yamada

Members Absent: Lyle Bullock and Paul Hoe

Vacancies: There are four (4) vacancies on the Board, including two (2) vacancies in Subdistrict 1, one (1) vacancy in Subdistrict 2, and one (1) vacancy in Subdistrict 3.

Guests: Sergeant Susan Medeiros and Officer Chad Yamada (Honolulu Police Department), Senator Les Ihara, Representative Bertrand Kobayashi, Evelyn Hee (House Speaker Emeritus Calvin Say's Representative), Mark Wong (Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative), Jarret Yip (Councilmember Kobayashi's Office staff), Micah Munekata (Councilmember Stanley Chang's Representative), Ricky Mamiya (Honolulu Fire Department), Lorna Heller (Board of Water Supply), Miles Takaaze (Leahi Hospital), Leon and Vickie Kau, Regina Bode, Y. Tokuyama, Anselm Chuh, Zee Chuh, Vince Lin, and Risé Doi (Neighborhood Commission Office staff).

ELECTION OF OFFICERS: Due to the lack of quorum, the election of officers was deferred until the next meeting.

MEETING DETERMINATION -- DATE/TIME/LOCATION: Due to the lack of quorum, the meeting date, time, and location of the Kaimuki Neighborhood Board was deferred until the next meeting.

RECESS SCHEDULE: Due to the lack of quorum, the determination of the recess schedule was deferred until the next meeting.

FACILITY USE RENTAL FEE AND OTHER BOARD EXPENSES: Due to the lack of quorum, the facility use rental fee and other board expenses were deferred until the next meeting.

FILLING OF BOARD VACANCIES: Due to the lack of quorum, this item was deferred until the next meeting.

PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS:

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) -- Captain Ricky Mamiya reported the following:

· June 2013 Statistics: There were 4 structure fires, 67 medical emergencies, 3 search and rescues, and 25 miscellaneous calls.

· Grilling Safety: Propane and charcoal barbecue grills should only be used outdoors, not under any trees or anything that will catch fire. Keep children and pets away from the grill area, and never leave the grill unattended. Never add flammable liquids other than charcoal starter fluid. Make sure charcoal is completely cool before disposal.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed: Fire: A fire that was on Kaimuki Avenue is under investigation.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) -- Sergeant Susan Medeiros reported the following:

June 2013 Statistics: There were 17 burglaries, 2 robberies, 52 thefts, and 16 unauthorized entry of motor vehicles (UEMV).
"Move Over" Law: The law requires motorists to make a lane change away from any emergency vehicle that is stopped for an emergency, or to slow down below the speed limit if changing lanes is not possible.

Questions, comments and concerns followed: Robberies: A resident asked about the nature of the robberies, but no information was available.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) -- Lorna Heller reported the following:

· June 2013 Water Main Break Report: There were no water main breaks.

· Scheduled Water Rate Increase: Back in 2012, BWS implemented a new five-year rate schedule to fund a proactive capital improvement program that supports the operation, maintenance, and replacement of Oahu's aging water infrastructure. The water rate increase was spread over a five-year schedule, at 9.65% each year, to minimize the impact on customers. BWS is reminding its customers that effective July 1, 2013, water rates increased 9.65%. The average single-family home that uses 13,000 gallons of water per month will see a $5 increase in the water charges of their monthly bill. The increase is necessary to provide the BWS with the means to continue to deliver a safe and dependable water supply to customers.

· 25th Annual Halawa Xeriscape Garden Open House and Unthirsty Plant Sale: BWS is hosting the event on August 3, 2013 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. There will be unthirsty plants for sale by local growers, keiki activities, free mulch, workshops by botanical experts, and more. Those who attend will gain valuable insights on how to conserve water through water-efficient landscaping.

Questions, comments and concerns followed: BWS Customer Service: A resident commented that an explanation for an unusally high water bill was not given, and also commented that customer service could not be reached.

BOARD ADMINISTRATION

Approval of the Regular Meeting Minutes -- Due to the lack of quorum, the approval of the regular meeting minutes for June 19, 2013 was deferred until the next meeting.

Treasurer's Report -- Due to the lack of quorum, the approval of the treasurer's report was deferred until the next meeting.

PUBLIC INPUT

Kaimuki Traffic -- Resident Leon Kau requested that the City look into making a left turn traffic arrow signal at 16th Avenue, and also noted that the "no right turn on red" sign at Waialae Avenue and Koko Head Avenue still has not been removed. Kau also commented that drivers near the 7-11 at Sierra Drive and Waialae Avenue are blocking the right turn lane and it makes turning into the driveway difficult. Another resident asked about the possibility of one way streets in Kaimuki.

Resident's Line of Sight -- Resident Anselm Chuh noted that development is progressing with little regard to existing properties' lines of sight. It was asked if there are any regulations to preserve residents' views and what could a resident do if experiencing this situation. Yamada suggested creating a petition. Micah Munekata from Councilmember Stanley Chang's office commented that there are guidelines for building codes and height change. Mayor's representative Mark Wong indicated that the size and height regulations of a structure are determined by the Land Use Ordinance (LUO). As long as the neighbor received a permit issued by the City and is following the LUO, then there will be no recourse.

Leahi Hospital -- Miles Takaaze noted that there will be a bon dance event on July 27, 2013 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

ELECTED OFFICIALS

Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative -- Mark Wong reported the following:

· Resident's Line of Sight: Wong had addressed the issue earlier, but added that if a resident submits an address, the City Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) may check the plans to ensure that the construction of the building is following the proper regulations. There are no codes protecting private views.

· Construction: The City must follow federal guidelines when doing construction, including lane closures.

· Sewage Capacity: There is adequate sewage capacity for the estimated 5,000 apartments that Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) is building in Kakaako.

· Municipal Parking Lot: The Kaimuki municipal parking lot between 12th Avenue and Koko Head Avenue is programmed to be resurfaced by the City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) contract using fiscal year (FY) 2014 capital improvement project (CIP) funds. The actual resurfacing schedule has not been determined yet. The Division of Road Maintenance will provide temporary pavement repairs to the parking lot as needed until it is resurfaced. The City website has links that provide information on all planned construction projects.

· Waialae Avenue Repaving: Due to unforeseen soft subgrade conditions encountered during road construction on Waialae Avenue between 13th Avenue and 17th Avenue, the paving work will not likely be completed by November 2013 to allow for the annual Christmas parade. Coordination between the remaining paving work and the parade will be required.

· HCDA Kakaako Development: The Mayor is open to Kakaako development, but would need to know details of the specific project.

· One-Way Streets: Converting roadways into one-way configurations may inconvenience residents and businesses in the area by requiring motorists to travel in a more circuitous route. Therefore, the City Department of Transportation Services (DTS) does not recommend converting roadway into one-way streets in the Kaimuki area at this time. A survey of all impacted residents, businesses, and properties in the entire Kaimuki area would need to be conducted. If the Neighborhood Board wishes to pursue this concern, a survey with a goal of 90 percent concurrence should be conducted and submitted. While having the support of the Neighborhood Board does not guarantee the requested change will be implemented, it is the best forum for affected residents to express viewpoints regarding proposals such as this.

· Bus Shelter: The large bus shelter on Koko Head Avenue near Queen Liliuokalani School was constructed by the Kaimuki Lion's Club in the 1970's. The bus shelter is constructed with concrete block supports, which are still in good condition. However, the shelter could use some minor repairs, modification, painting, and cleaning. DTS will be soliciting assistance with these activities through its community volunteers program.

· Intersection of Waialae and Koko Head Avenues: DTS completed an evaluation of the intersection. The investigation concluded that there appears to be no reason to keep the "no right turn on red" restriction, and will issue a work order to remove signs.

Councilmember Ann Kobayashi -- Jarret Yip provided Councilmember Kobayashi's newsletter and reported the following:

· Capital Improvement Projects (CIP): Yip referred to the front page of the newsletter which listed various CIP projects approved for the upcoming fiscal year (FY) 2014.

· Mahalo: Yip thanked Wong for streamlining information on construction projects.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Property Taxes: A resident asked about Councilmember Kobayashi's views on reforming property taxes. Yip responded that the office is still examining the issue.

2. Traffic Fines: A resident noted that $42 million is needed for HPD raises. However, money collected from traffic fines goes to the State, not the City. Wong commented that the money goes to the State due to the judicial process. Fines are collected by courts, which are under jurisdiction of the State.

Councilmember Stanley Chang -- Micah Munekata provided Councilmember Chang's newsletter and reported the following:

· Blighted Properties: DPP has issued Notices of Violation (NOV) after receiving reports of unkempt properties. Munekata encouraged the public to let Councilmember Chang's office know of any other violations regarding blighted properties.

· Mau'umae Nature Park: The City Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) has confirmed the park is dog friendly, even though there is a sign that says "no animals." The sign will be addressed to allow dogs on leashes.

· Bills 25 and 28 -- Bill 25 (prohibiting smoking at all city public parks, recreation areas, and facilities under the management of DPR) and Bill 28 (prohibiting smoking at city bus stops) passed third reading on July 9, 2013 and are sitting on the Mayor's desk to be signed.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

Bill 25: A resident asked if Councilmember Chang submitted the amendment to Bill 25. Councilmember Chang's office initiated the bill to ban smoking on beaches, and Councilmember Ikaika Anderson's office had submitted the amendment to add other public areas.
Bill Introduction: A resident asked how to have Councilmember Chang introduce a bill that the resident feels is important. Munekata advised the resident to call the office and speak to someone about the issue.

Governor Neil Abercrombie's Representative -- Fred Pablo, Director of Taxation, reported the following:

· Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) Kakaako Development: It was asked what is the relationship between the City and State regarding Kakaako. HCDA is a planning and zoning authority for the Kakaako Community Development District, therefore, HCDA planning and zoning rules apply to Kakaako, not the Land Use Ordinance.

· Environmental Impact Study: An environmental impact study was done in Kakaako was done in 2009. Check ocqc.doh.hawaii.gov for more information.

· Early Childhood Education: An early childhood education bill was signed into law. This will help four-year-old children be prepared for kindergarten.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed: Early Childhood Education: The program will be open to all four- year-old children, however, priority will be extended to underserved and at-risk keiki and children who are born after the kindergarten eligibility date. $720,000 will be allocated for this program in 2014 and $440,000 in 2015, as well as additional money for program subsidies.

Senator Les Ihara Jr. -- Senator Ihara reported the following:

· HCDA: Reports are available online.

· Senate Special Session: The State Senate will be meeting for a special session to discuss and confirm a District court nomination.

· Same-sex Marriage: The federal government is recognizing same-sex marriages and offering the same marriage benefits that are given to heterosexual married couples. Hawaii provides all state rights and benefits for same-sex couples in civil unions. The Hawaii State Legislature will most likely not call a special session regarding this issue.

· Reapportionment Lawsuit: A US District Court recently ruled in favor of the State. Plaintiffs will appeal to the US Supreme Court.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

Senator Sam Slom: Yamada asked why Senator Slom does not attend the Kaimuki Neighborhood Board meetings. Senator Ihara indicated that Senator Slom's district boundary ends at 12th Avenue.
Economy: Moniz-Kahoohano commented that she had heard about a survey that indicated Hawaii is ranked almost last in business climate but one of the top states for quality of life, and questioned if the Legislature is concerned. Senator Ihara indicated that there were no tax increases this past legislative session and also said there is not a large corporate tax. Senator Ihara is working with some members of the House on a legislative package and welcomes any ideas.
Industrial Hemp: McGuire questioned if industrial hemp could be a possibility for agricultural businesses. Senator Ihara noted that growing industrial hemp is against federal law. Ihara noted that it is a good product and should not be considered a drug since there is no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
HI-5 Recycling: A resident commented that not everyone recycles bottles and cans, and it costs too much money to run the recycling program. The resident noted that there are people who will collect the cans and sell it as scrap metal, so the money is not going back to the state.

Representative Calvin K.Y. Say -- Evelyn Hee did not have a report, but said she would take back any questions for House Speaker Emeritus Say. There were no questions.

Representative Bertrand Kobayashi -- Representative Kobayashi provided a newsletter and highlighted the following:

· Radio: Representative Kobayashi noted that Yamada was on Hawaii Public Radio for a minute and a half on June 18, 2013, talking about the olden days of Kaimuki.

· Kapiolani Community College (KCC) Satellite Launching Contest Winners: KCC students won a national satellite launching contest. Representative Kobayashi noted it was an exceptional achievement for community college students winning against university students on a national level.

· Legislators Listen: Representative Kobayashi had hosted a "Legislators Listen" event at Waialae Elementary School on June 5, 2013.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

Drop-off at Waikiki Elementary School: Linda Wong asked for clarification about the Waikiki Elementary School drop-off.
Jefferson Elementary: There is no timetable for any Jefferson Elementary development projects.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

· Next Board Meeting: The next meeting of the Kaimuki Neighborhood Board No. 4 will be on Wednesday, August 21, 2013, 7:00 p.m. at the Kaimuki Christian Church, Fellowship Hall, 1117 Koko Head Avenue.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 8:23 p.m.

Submitted By: Risé Doi, Neighborhood Assistant

Reviewed By: Adam LeFebvre, Neighborhood Assistant

Reviewed and Finalized By: Lyle Bullock Jr., Chair

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