Kaimuki Neighborhood Board Minutes Posted for April 18, 2012 Meeting

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Kaimuki Neighborhood Board Minutes Posted for April 18, 2012 Meeting
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Courtesy of Neighborhood Commission Office
Source Neighborhood Commission Office

Kaimuki Neighborhood Board No. 4

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012
KAIMUKI CHRISTIAN CHURCH FELLOWSHIP HALL

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Vernon Tam called the Kaimuki Neighborhood Board No. 4 (Board) meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. with an established quorum of eight (8) members present. Note – This 11 member Board requires six (6) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.

Board Members Present – Lyle Bullock, Paul Hoe, Brian Kang (appointed at tonight’s meeting), Abigail Leong (arrived at 7:20 p.m.), Russell McGuire, John Perez, Sharon Schneider, Leonard Tam, Vernon Tam, and Lori Yamada.

Board Members Absent – Lisa Shorba.

Board Vacancies – There is one vacancy in Sub District 1.

Guests – Lieutenant Allan Nagata, Sergeant Allen Ishida, Officer Teddy Van Lerberghe and Officer Calvin Domingo (Honolulu Police Department); Firefighter Alan Oliveira (Honolulu Fire Department); Tim Steinberger (Mayor’s Representative); Director Wayne Yoshioka, (City Department of Transportation Services); Fred Pablo (Governor’s Representative); Representative Barbara Marumoto; Representative Mark Hashem; Mark Aoki (Councilmember Stanley Chang’s Office); Karen Yorimoto (Councilmember Ann Kobayashi’s Office); Lorna Heller (Board of Water Supply); Lydia Chock (Leahi Hospital); Roger Morton (Oahu Transit Services); Randy Moore (Department of Education); Marilyn Gates; James Hatfield; Nancy Inouye; George and Grace Lee; Jerry Tsukayama; Donald Au; Della Au Belatti; June Sueda; May Yamamoto; Violet Del Mar; Sandra Callera; Wayne Gau; Barbara and Fred Karimoto; Darlene and Debra Wong; Iris Wong; Gerri Texeira; Kathryn Julia; Jessica Palakiko; Alika Bus; Catherine Kelly; Mark and Cindy Mayeck; Eileen Garcia; Tracy Anicas; Elena Alexander; Paula Luv; John Aipia; Betty Nishida; Carol Oshiro; Marianne Stone; L.&R. Shimabukuro; Larry Segedin; W.&.N. Hironaka; Al Morikami; Alex Quisquirin; Gordon Tam; Peter and Carla Auello; Barbara Tamentiout; Milton and Connie Diamond; S. Sonoda; Robyn; a number of residents did not sign in; and Theona Kapoi (Neighborhood Commission Office).

FILLING OF BOARD VACANCY: Board Member Bullock introduced and nominated Brian Kang for the vacant position in Sub District 1. Kang introduced himself and mentioned why he would like to be a Board member. There being no other interested candidates, nominations were closed. Bullock moved, Yamada seconded that the Kaimuki Neighborhood Board No. 4 appoint Brian Kang to fill the Sub District 1 vacancy. The motion was ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY, 8-0-0, (Aye: Bullock, Hoe, McGuire, Perez, Schneider, L. Tam, V. Tam, and Yamada; No: None; Abstain: None).

Kapoi verified Brian Kang’s residential address in Sub District 1. Kang was administered the Oath of Office on the side while the Chair reminded residents of the Board’s full agenda tonight.

Board Member Kang appointed 7:07 p.m.; quorum of nine (9) members present.

PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS:

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – Lieutenant Nagata distributed a report and highlighted the following:

· March 2012 Statistics – Included 14 burglaries, 3 robberies, 56 thefts, and 12 unauthorized entries into motor vehicles (UEMV).

· Safety Tip – This month’s safety tip is related to bicycle safety. More safety tip information can be found online at www.honolulupd.org.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Bicycle Safety – Lieutenant Nagata noted that if bicyclists are breaking the law, they should call 911. Everyone should follow the law and be aware of the surroundings. It is all about safety. Bicyclists should be riding in the same direction as traffic and it was reminded that bicyclists are not allowed to ride on the sidewalks in the Downtown and Waikiki areas.

Without objection, agenda item 5.5 regarding speeding in Kaimuki and Kahala was heard out of order.

Speeding in Kaimuki and Kahala – Lieutenant Nagata noted that speed trailers have been placed on Kilauea Avenue fronting Kaimuki Middle School. Speed trailers help indicate to motorists just how fast they are driving. Luawai Street, specifically the stretch between the Kahala Times Supermarket and Pahoa Avenue, is being monitored. All residents have a stake in everyone’s safety. When motorists are pulled over and questioned “do you know how fast you were going” they all reply by saying yes and state they live right down the street. This also indicates that residents in the area have to be more aware of their driving habits. Speed is not the only issue that has to be addressed in this area in particular.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Pedestrian Safety – Both motorists and pedestrians have to be aware of their surroundings to ensure everyone’s safety.

2. Bicyclists – Bicyclists are required to follow the laws of the roadways. If anyone sees a violation, call 911 and file a report.

The agenda resumed order with agenda item 3.2, Honolulu Fire Department.

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – Firefighter Oliveira highlighted the following:

• March 2012 Statistics – There were 9 fire alarms, 113 medical emergencies, 1 search and rescue, and 28 miscellaneous calls for service. There were no major or unusual incidents to report.
• Fire Hydrant Safety Tip – In 2010, there were 1,331,500 fires reported in the United States (U.S.). These fires caused 3,120 civilian deaths, 17,720 civilian injuries, and $11.6 billion in property damage. Fire hydrants are the main source of water supply for fire apparatuses responding to fires. It is reminded that in accordance with the Fire Code of the City and County of Honolulu, obstructions shall not be placed or kept near fire hydrants in a manner that would prevent the fire hydrants from being immediately visible and accessible. A minimum three-foot clearance shall be maintained around the circumference of fire hydrants. Additionally, the Traffic Code of the Revised Ordinances of Honolulu states that stopping, standing, or parking is prohibited within 10 feet of a fire hydrant.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Construction – It was questioned as to where HFD will get their water if there is a construction project blocking the nearest fire hydrant.

2. Dedicated Lane – Concern was raised about the status of the dedicated emergency lane in the State Legislature.

3. Additional Emergencies – Concern was raised about an elderly lady in the neighborhood that calls HFD for assistance to move her from her home. Question was raised about the event of another emergency, will someone be able to assist. It was clarified that all calls to HFD are treated as an emergency. The nearest fire station has two trucks and will be able to make assists as necessary.

Board Member Leong arrived at 7:20 p.m.; quorum of 10 members present.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Lorna Heller highlighted the following information:

• Mayor’s Challenge For Water Conservation – Oahu residents are encouraged to get involved by joining the Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation, sponsored by the Wyland Foundation, the City and County of Honolulu, and BWS, and making a free pledge to conserve water and energy. For more information visit www.boardofwatersubbply.com or call the BWS Communications Office at 748-5041.
• Customer Service Request Forms – BWS recently developed new customer service request forms that allow customers to request account services online. Customers seeking to update existing account information start water service, or stop water service may now submit their requests by using electronic or printable forms to avoid waiting in the phone queue. Check out the forms by visiting the BWS website at www.boardofwatersupply.com.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. 4600 Block of Sierra Drive – Concern was raised about the 4600 block of Sierra Drive as BWS did not complete a project that was started about five years ago. The road pavement seems to be sinking across the street of the BWS facility. Heller will follow up.

PUBLIC INPUT AND CONCERNS:

ID Program – A resident requested support for an ID program that creates sidewalks for children. This program will help create a safer walking area for students on Kilauea and Harding Avenues. Although Kaimuki is an older community, it should not prevent the City or State from creating safer pedestrian access. Chair V. Tam noted that some of the difficulty in the Kaimuki area is the designation of some streets as "private" streets, and the City not being able to maintain them as they would "public" streets.

Homeless Residents – A resident noted that all community members should visit the homeless residents in Kaimuki Park. It was requested that they receive help and encouragement.

Permits – A resident was directed by the Board to contact the City Department of Planning and Permitting regarding the proper permits to make structural changes to her residence.

NEW BUSINESS:

Wilhelmina Rise Road Rehabilitation Project – The Kaikor Construction representative left earlier.

Proposed Bus Route Changes – Roger Morton, President of Oahu Transit Services (OTS), noted that the changes to the bus schedule are only proposals. Wayne Yoshioka, Director of the City Department of Transportation Services (DTS) and OTS want to gauge the community’s perspective on the proposals. TheBus accounts for 12 percent of the City’s budget and is making the proposals due to the rise in fuel costs and is hoping to do so without raising the cost of bus fare. Morton made note of the following proposed changes to the area bus routes:

Route	Route Name	Proposed Change
Route 1	Kaimuki -Kalihi	WEEKDAY headway change: Base period, from 12 to 15 minutes
Route 2	Waikiki-School-Middle	Increase frequency to compensate for discontinuation of Route B. Extend to Campbell Avenue (all trips): EAST to Kuhio/Kapahulu left Kapahulu, right Campbell to terminus at Campbell/Monsarrat. Continue WEST via Campbell, left Monsarrat, left Trousseau, left Kaunaoa, right Campbell, left Kapahulu, right Kuhio, resuming regular route. Extend to KCC via Campbell Avenue (selected trips): EAST to Kuhio/Kapahulu left Kapahulu, right Campbell, left Monsarrat, onto Diamond Head, left Makapuu, right into KCC Parking Lot opposite Alohea, right main entrance to terminus. Continue WEST via main entrance, right Diamond Head, onto Monsarrat, right Campbell, left Kapahulu, right Kuhio, resuming regular route.
Route 13	Waikiki-Liliha	Realign to Kapiolani Boulevard: EAST to King/Punchbowl, continue on King, right Kapiolani, right McCully, left Kalakaua, resuming regular route. WEST from Kuhio/Namahana, continue on Kuhio, onto Kalakaua, right Pau, left Ala Wai, right McCully, resuming regular route. Extend to UH Manoa (replaces Route 4 full Waikiki service, adds Kapahulu connection, replaces discontinued Route 14 Kapahulu service): EAST to Kapahulu/Campbell, continue on Kapahulu, left Kaimuki, right Kapiolani, left Old Waialae, onto King, right University, right Dole to terminus fronting Kanewai Park. Continue WEST via Dole, right St. Louis, right Waialae, onto Kapiolani, left Kaimuki, right Kapahulu, resuming regular route.
Route 3	Kaimuki-Salt Lake	Terminate route at KCC (discontinue Kaimuki town portion, replaced by Route 9 extension): EASTBOUND on Kilauea FS Makapuu EAST to Kilauea/Makapuu, continue on Kilauea, right 18th to 18th/Diamond Head. Continue WEST via 18th, right Diamond Head, right Makapuu, left Kilauea, resuming regular route.
Route 9	Palolo Valley - Pearl Harbor	Discontinue valley service — replaced by new circulator Route 901. Extend to KCC (replaces Route 3 Kaimuki town service): EAST to Waialae/Palolo, continue on Waialae, right 13th, right Mahina, left Koko Head, left Pahoa, right 18th, right Diamond Head, right Makapuu, left Alohea to Alohea/Pokole. Continue WEST via Alohea, right Pokole, right Kilauea, right Makapuu, left Diamond Head, left 18th, left Pahoa, right Koko Head, left Waialae, resuming regular route.
Route 901	NEW Palolo Valley Circulator	Establish shuttle service to replace Route 9 in Palolo Valley: From 9th/Waialae, continue on 9th, right Waialae, right Palolo, onto Orchid, left Ginger, right Gardenia, right Jasmine, left Carlos Long, left Palolo, onto 10th, right Kiwila, left 9th to 9th/Waialae.
Route 14	Saint Louis- Kahala- Maunalani	Discontinue Kapahulu, Waikiki, Diamond Head, and Kahala service: EAST from Kapiolani/Waialae, left St. Louis, right Peter, U-TURN at Ruth, Peter, right Bertram, right St. Louis, left Waialae, left Waialae, right 13th, right Mahina, right Koko Head. Continue WEST via Koko Head, right Sierra, right Lurline at Maunalani Circle, left Monterey, onto Paula, onto Koko, onto 18th, right Waialae, onto Kapiolani, left Kaimuki,left Kapahulu, left Harding, right Kapiolani to Kapiolani/Waialae.
Route 18	University-Ala Moana	Interline with Route 24: EAST to Kaimuki/Kapiolani. Continue EAST on Route 24 via Kaimuki, right Kapahulu, left Kalakaua, resuming regular route EAST on Route 24 to Aina Haina. Continue WEST via Route 18 from Kaimuki/Kapiolani to Ala Moana Center.
Route 24	Aina Haina-Ala Moana	Interline with Route 18 via Kapahulu: From Kaimuki/Kapiolani, continue EAST on Route 24 via Kaimuki, right Kapahulu, left Kalakaua, resuming regular route EAST on Route 24 to Aina Haina. WEST to Paki/Kapahulu, continue via Paki, right Kapahulu, left Kaimuki to Kaimuki/Kapiolani. Continue WEST via Route 18 to Ala Moana Center.

Director Yoshioka reminded residents that the proposed changes are not set in stone. Many of the concerns raised for this area in particular are the changes to route 14. Director Yoshioka reminded residents that there are several ways they can voice their opinions regarding the proposed changes – via email at thebusstop@honolulu.gov, by calling 768-8365, or by visiting the DTS website at www1.honolulu.gov/dts. Director Yoshioka believed it important to hear comments and concerns from the residents.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Route 14 Comments – A resident noted that the route has been in effect since 1969 and is a good route. It was also commented that better pedestrian walkways are needed as well. It was commented that by doing away with a part of route 14, many students that live in the Maunalani Heights area will have to trek up and down a steep grade. There will be no transportation for residents that live in the area and depend on the bus. Everyone will have to compensate by walking the remainder of the route. It was suggested that route 14 be extended for a part of the day and shortened during the middle of the day when ridership is less.

2. 18th and Kilauea Avenues – It was asked if it was possible to have a route that heads down Kilauea Avenue. Director Yoshioka indicated that suggestions are always welcome. With regard to Kilauea Avenue, Director Yoshioka noted that the project to install delineators at the 18th Avenue intersection is moving forward and should be implemented by September 2012.

3. Route 9 – Further clarification was given regarding the proposed changes to route 9. It was suggested that the turn around for route 9 be at Aala Park. It was commented to keep the route as is.

4. Route 3 & 9 – It was requested not to change routes 3 and 9 because the younger generation does not give up their seats for the elderly and it will be difficult to get a seat.

5. Route 5 – Concern was raised about the proposed changes to route 5. A petition with over 600 signatures requests that no changes be made to route 5.

6. Bus Transfers – Concerns were raised regarding various bus routes because some residents do not buy a bus pass because they do not catch the bus very often and doing away with part of a route would require them to pay the one-way fare twice. Director Yoshioka noted that transfers are allowed to be used twice. There was disagreement that this was actually the case.

7. Driver Feedback – It was commented that the bus operators also have submitted comments as to how to make TheBus system more effective.

8. Bus Fare Increase – It was commented that by raising the bus fare only 25 cents would help to cover the cost of fuel for a bus per month. Director Yoshioka reminded residents that the intent was not to increase the bus fare and not all community members would be able to afford even an increase of a single way bus fare of 25 cents.

9. Rail – Director Yoshioka replied to a question regarding the rail system stating that he does support the project. Chair V. Tam reminded residents that the item on the agenda is not related to the rail system and should be discussed at another time.

Chair V. Tam noted that the agenda item for discussion will end at this time. It was reminded that residents may submit comments to DTS regarding the proposed bus route changes.

Conversion of Former Queen Lili’uokalani School – Randy Moore, Assistant Superintendent, Office of School Facilities and Support Services, State Department of Education (DOE), gave a presentation regarding the conversion of Queen Lili’uokalani School to administrative offices and a data center.

Moore noted that the DOE will relocate the administrative offices and data center from the Dole Cannery building in Iwilei, which will save the State $700,000 in rent. It was stated that the data center will be located in the cafeteria. The State Department of Health (DOH) will be using the facility temporarily while their offices in the Kakaako pump station are being renovated.

Moore noted the concerns raised by the Board and community members regarding traffic and parking. He indicated that he did not feel there would be a significant difference to the traffic in the area. It was also noted that part of the school grounds will be expanded for on site parking at a nominal charge. Also under consideration is to possibly provide subsidized bus passes for the employees.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Public Visitors – Concern was raised about the number of public visitors that will be at the administrative offices. Moore noted that he was not aware of the number and commented that is should be small.

2. Temporary Use by DOH – Concern was raised about possible congestion due to the moving of materials and the number of persons that will be visiting the area when DOH is using the facility.

3. Data Center – Moore clarified that the data center is one of two in the State that will be consolidated. It was commented that $2.2 million was allotted to the DOE for needed changes to the structure in preparation for the data center. This will include renovations to the cafeteria to make it more energy efficient and hurricane-proof.

4. Plans – It is not the intention of the DOE to take down any trees, murals, or corner stones. Moore said he cannot guarantee that the rest of the school will remain as is. Some paving over of the lawn near the basketball court will be done to accommodate for staff parking.

5. Restrooms – Existing child-size toilets will be replaced with adult-size.

6. Projected Use – Moore noted that the site will likely be used for administrative services indefinitely.

7. Accessibility – It was commented that the buildings have to install elevators to be ADA-accessible.

8. No Right Turn Sign – A follow up will be done regarding the “No Right Turn” sign near the school.

City Council Resolution 12-57 – Chair V. Tam asked if the Board would like to make a motion to support City Council Resolution 12-57 urging the State of Hawaii and the United States Food and Drug Administration to require labeling of genetically modified organisms. Board Member McGuire noted that he would like to see such labeling on various food products as w way to educate the consumer. The Board did not take any action at this time.

Speeding in Kaimuki and Kahala – This item was previously addressed.

 
ELECTED OFFICIALS:

Mayor Peter Carlisle’s Representative – Tim Steinberger highlighted the following:

· Kaimuki Parking Lot Dumpster Staging Area – It was noted that there is no law to prohibit any private refuse hauling company from collecting refuse at 4:30 a.m. It was also noted that if the company did not use the parking lot as a staging area, the public street would be used instead which would hinder traffic; the refuse bins would present a potential hazard on the road. It essentially comes to the issue of efficiency. The Honolulu Disposal Company will be reminded to tidy up when done.

· Ward's Rafters – It was noted that the Court Order does not prohibit Ward's Rafters from accepting donations. It was also noted that Ward's Rafters is working within the law.

· Repaving Roadways – Wihelmina Rise, from 13th Avenue to End, is being repaved. Other streets in the area will see construction later this year. Anticipated construction notice to proceed date is summer 2012 and the contract duration is 540 calendar days. The Board received a list of streets that will be worked on.

· Queen Lili'uokalani School – It was noted that the zoning of the school is R-5 Residental District. As such, the Land Use Ordinance (LUO) permits public uses and structures, which are defined as “uses conducted by or structures owned or managed by the federal government, the State of Hawaii or the City to fulfill a governmental function, activity or service for public benefit and in accordance with public policy.” The site is owned by the State of Hawaii, and if the DOE is using the former school as office space for it’s staff, it is allowed by the LUO as a public use and structure. No traffic study is required to use the former school as DOE offices.

Councilmember Ann Kobayashi – Karen Yorimoto distributed a report and was available for questions.

Councilmember Stanley Chang – Mark Aoki distributed a report and highlighted the following:

· Kaimuki Repaving Efforts – It was noted that repaving on several Kaimuki roads will begin shortly. A full list of the roads being repaved can be found on Councilmember Chang’s website online at www.stanleychang.com/district-4/kaimuki-roads-2012. Appreciation was expressed for the road repaving list.

Governor Neill Abercrombie’s Representative – Fred Pablo introduced himself and reported the following

· State Homeless Strategic Plan – The Hawaii Interagency Council on Homelessness’ draft strategic plan to prevent and end homelessness in Hawaii may be viewed online at hawaii.gov/dhs/Homelessness

Plan. The interagency council developed the statewide strategic plan for Governor Abercrombie’s review and approval, as well as the plan’s implementation. The Governor would like to recognize the collaborative work of the council.

· Unemployment Insurance Bill – The Governor enacted House Bill 2096, which extends the mitigation of the unemployment insurance tax increase. This measure avoids an increase in costs for State businesses and maintains the maximum weekly benefit amount of 75 percent of the average weekly wage, rather than the normal 70 percent for calendar year 2012; and allows the unemployment insurance fund to accept loans from the state general fund or the Federal government.

Senator Les Ihara – A representative or report was not available.

Representative Calvin Say – A representative or report was not available.

Representative Barbara Marumoto – Representative Marumoto distributed a newsletter and stood on her report.

Representative Scott Nishimoto – A representative or report was not available.

Representative Mark Hashem – Representative Hashem reported there are now several adult courses being offered at Wailupe Elementary School ranging from Zumba to Tai Chi. Visit the website at kcsa.k12.hi.us.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Hoe moved, McGuire seconded that the Kaimuki Neighborhood Board No. 4 approve the March 21, 2012 regular meeting minutes as circulated. The motion was ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY, 10-0-0, (Aye: Bullock, Hoe, Kang, Leong, McGuire, Perez, Schneider, L. Tam, V. Tam, and Yamada; No: None; Abstain: None).
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TREASURER’S REPORT: Yamada reported a starting balance of $2,264.00 and a remaining balance of $1,788.07 after printing and postage of Board meeting minutes and agendas. The report was filed.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Board Newsletter – Chair Tam reminded the Board about submitting newsletter content to him as soon as possible. Kapoi reminded the Board that the final approval of the newsletter has to be done at their May 2012 board meeting.

Next Meeting – The next regular meeting of the Kaimuki Neighborhood Board is scheduled for Wednesday, May 16, 2012, at 7:00 p.m., at the Kaimuki Christian Church Fellowship Hall, 1117 Koko Head Avenue.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.

Submitted by Theona Kapoi, Neighborhood Commission Office

Reviewed by Aisha Wang, Neighborhood Commission Office

Reviewed by Vernon Tam, Chair, Kaimuki Neighborhood Board No. 4

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