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  • Diamond Head, Kapahulu, Saint Louis Neighborhood Board No. 5 Minutes Posted For LAST MONTH (July 9, 2015)


With Permission / Courtesy of: City and County of Honolulu Neighborhood Commission Office

Diamond Head / Kapahulu / Saint Louis Neighborhood Board No.5

DRAFT-- INITIAL CONVENING MEETING MINUTES
THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015
ALA WAI CLUB HOUSE

CALL TO ORDER -- Chair Pro Tem George West called the meeting to order at 6:39 p.m. and welcomed everyone to the meeting. A quorum was established with 13 members present. Note -- This 15-member Board requires eight (8) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.

Members Present -- Julia Allen, Barbra Armentrout, Michelle Matson, Barbara Miller, Bertha Naho'opi'i, Bert Narita, Keolu Peralto, Don Persons, Laura St. Denis, Bryn Villers, George Waialeale, George West, and Linda Wong.

Members Absent -- Lee Manfredi.

Vacancies -- One (1) in Subdistrict 3 (Diamond Head).

Guests -- House Speaker Emeritus Calvin Say, Representative Bertrand Kobayashi, Kevan Wong (Representative Scott Nishimoto's Office), Walea Constantinau (Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative, Honolulu Film Office), Councilmember Ann Kobayashi and Cliff Kaneshiro (Councilmember Ann Kobayashi's Office); Kurt Tsuneyoshi (Councilmember Trevor Ozawa's Office); Captain Albert McCollum (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Harrison Kim Han (Honolulu Police Department, District 6); Lieutenant Clinton Sukekane and Sergeant Allen Ishida (Honolulu Police Department, District 7); Ron Borromeo (Board of Water Supply); Jose Rodrigues, Eileen Mark, and Aaron Febuary (Department of Transportation Services); Daisy Murai, Dennis Silva, Jr. (Hawaii Planning LLC), Jan Bappe, Carol Hoshiko (Kapi'olani Community College/Culinary Institute of the Pacific), Jerry Wanager, Casey Moore and Jeremy Pazonable (WFTWR), Carolyn Tanaka, Victoria Mathieu, Lyle T. Tenjoma, Herman Hamato, Ron Lockwood (McCully-Mo'ili'ili Neighborhood Board No. 8, Chair), Jacqui Phenicie (Oahu Heart Walk), Peter Bourne (Tin Man Triathlon), and K. Russell Ho (Neighborhood Commission Office).

ELECTION OF OFFICERS TO SERVE FROM JULY 1, 2015 to JUNE 30, 2016

Chair -- Chair Pro Tem West had an 18-point list of the duties of the Chair. Narita nominated George West to be Chair and Waialeale seconded the nomination. There were no other nominations. As there were no objections, the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 elected George West to be Chair by UNANIMOUS CONSENT 13-0-0 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Matson, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, Waialeale, West, and Wong; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None). Chair West acknowledged the community members, who shared valuable information at the meetings. As the Board has full agendas, Chair West encouraged everyone to be mindful of the time.

Vice Chair -- Chair West mentioned that there are several significant duties for the Vice Chair. Miller nominated Linda Wong to be Vice Chair and Armentrout seconded the nomination. Matson nominated Bert Narita to be Vice Chair and Persons seconded the nomination. There were no other nominations. Narita thanked everyone for his/her support, mentioned that Chair West was very capable, and that he would support the Chair. Wong noted that she has served as Board Chair, Vice Chair and Subdistrict 3 (Diamond Head) chair in her 15 years on the Board. Wong has testified on State and City laws. Chair West asked the Neighborhood Assistant to take a roll call vote. There were three (3) votes for Narita (Matson, Narita, and Waialeale), nine (9) votes for Wong (Allen, Armentrout, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, and Wong), and one (1) abstention (West). The Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 elected Wong to be Vice Chair.

Secretary -- Chair West called for nominations for Secretary. Villers requested that the voting for Secretary be postponed to the next meeting, as there was still a vacancy to be filled. As there were no objections, the voting for Secretary was deferred to the next meeting. Chair West appointed Villers to be Secretary Pro Tem. Villers accepted the appointment.

Treasurer -- Chair West asked for nominations for Treasurer. Matson nominated Barbra Armentrout to be Treasurer and Wong seconded the nomination. There were no other nominations. As there were no objections, the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 elected Barbra Armentrout to be Treasurer by UNANIMOUS CONSENT 13-0-0 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Matson, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, Waialeale, West, and Wong; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

CHAIR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS: For all wishing to speak on items not already on the agenda, fill out a Community Concerns form from the front desk and give the form to the Chair or Neighborhood Assistant.

Comments followed:

  1. Subdistricts -- Miller asked and Chair West answered that Subdistrict Chairs will be later on the agenda.
  2. Agenda -- Matson will have comments on this month's unusual agenda later.

PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) -- Captain Albert McCollum reported the following:

  • June 2015 Statistics -- There were 12 structure, 0 wildland, 4 rubbish and 7 vehicle fires; 150 medical emergencies, 19 search/rescues, and 9 miscellaneous calls for service. There was one (1) major incident on Monday, June 15, 2015. There was a road paving heavy equipment fire on Kapahulu Avenue.
  • Fire Safety Tips -- Wildland fires, also known as brush fires, can cause great damage in the communities and use resources that could be better utilized elsewhere. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the following steps should be taken to prevent brush fires at home: Remove flammable materials, i.e. dead vegetation and wood piles, from within 30 feet of the home. Keep the lawn hydrated and maintained. If it is brown, cut it down to reduce fire intensity. Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for brush fires. Clear leaves and other vegetative debris from decks, gutters, porches, and roofs to help prevent embers from igniting the home.

Comments followed:

1. Structure Fires -- Villers noted an increase in the number of structure fires. Captain McCollum mentioned that sometimes there is a "spike" during the summer, but he does not know why.

2. Fire on Kapahulu Avenue -- Waialeale mentioned the fire on Kapahulu Avenue. Captain McCollum added that HFD is always ready to go, but the repaving schedule may be delayed. Captain McCollum noted that Waialeale should ask the City. Chair West suggested asking the Mayor's Representative.

3. Search/Rescue -- Chair West appreciated the search/rescue efforts for the lost man after four (4) days near Schofield Barracks. Chair West may send a letter of appreciation to the HFD.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD), District 6 -- Waikiki (Diamond Head) -- Lieutenant Harrison Kim Han reported the following for Beat 662 -- Honolulu Zoo/Kapi'olani Park:

  • June 2015 Statistics -- There were 9 robberies, 15 burglaries, 249 thefts, and 29 unauthorized entries into a motor vehicle (UEMV). In addition, there were 94 speeding citations, 905 parking citations, 2 loud muffler citations and 1 park closure warnings, 132 park closure citations issued, and 2 park closure arrests. There were 4,160 calls for service in District 6 Waikiki.
  • Safety Tips -- Lieutenant Kim Han recommended watching for bicyclists and pedestrians, as they are the most vulnerable.

Comments followed:

1. Vicious Dog -- St. Denis reported a vicious dog at 2007 Paki Avenue near the community garden. There was no record of a police report. Lieutenant Kim Han advised that the victim should follow up with HPD, which will follow up with the Hawaiian Humane Society or Prosecuting Attorney's Office. Vice Chair Wong will help out.

2. Park Statistics -- Matson was concerned about the number of homeless people, moving into the Diamond Head area and park closure citations. Lieutenant Kim Han noted that enforcement is ongoing.

3. Monsarrat Avenue During the Honolulu Marathon -- With 5,000 runners using the road, for the second time, the pastor of Unity Church was not allowed to cross Monsarrat Avenue to open the church. Lieutenant Kim Han advised to call the Special Duty Police Supervisor to let residents cross in the gaps.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD), District 7 (Kapahulu, St. Louis Heights) --Lieutenant Clinton Sukekane reported the following:

  • June 2015/May 2015 Statistics --There were 3/1 motor vehicle thefts, 1/9 burglaries, 34/31 thefts, and 11/5 unauthorized entries into a motor vehicle (UEMV), and 6,139 total calls for service.
  • Safety Tips -- Pedestrian Safety Tips were highlighted. Lieutenant Sukekane added that pedestrians are not looking for cars making turns.

Comments followed:

1. Bicycle Thefts -- Armentrout asked if there were any statistics on bicycle thefts. She noticed there were three (3) new tents under the freeway at Harding Avenue and they all had bicycles parked there. Armentrout asked if they had registration. Lieutenant Sukekane recommended going to the HPD website for statistics or calling the Community Policing Team. Lieutenant Sukekane noted that HPD must respect the rights of the homeless, too. Armentrout added the signs, stating No bicycles on the Sidewalk, are being made and will be installed soon.

2. HPD Response for Subdistrict 1 -- Narita acknowledged the great HPD response to recent 911 calls. Narita asked about the use of the sidewalk on Harding Avenue under the freeway. Lieutenant Sukekane noted to call 911 if the sidewalk is blocked. He also mentioned that the State Department of Transportation (HDOT) may wait every couple of months to take homeless action.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) -- Ron Borromeo distributed a flyer and reported the following:

  • Unthirsty Plant Sale -- The Board of Water Supply (BWS) and Friends of the Halawa Xeriscape Garden will be holding the annual Halawa Xeriscape Garden Open House and Unthirsty Plant Sale on Saturday, August 1, 2015 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. There is no charge for admission. Proceeds from the event will help support educational programs and classes at the Halawa Xeriscape Garden. For more information, visit www.boardofwatersupply.com or call the BWS Communications Office at 748-5041.
  • Red Hill Fuel Tank Leak Update -- On Tuesday, June 23, 2015 the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Health (DOH) responded to a BWS request to have the Red Hill Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) and Statement of Work (SOW) public comment period extended. The EPA and DOH granted BWS's request, extending the opportunity for receiving public comments to Tuesday, July 20, 2015. To receive consideration, comments on the AOC may be submitted via postal mail or email prior to this new deadline. For questions, contact the BWS Communications Office at 748-5041 or at contactus@hbws.org. Borromeo added that on Tuesday, January 20, 2015, the U.S. Navy disclosed a leak. There was concern, as the aquifers are 100 feet below the fuel tanks. BWS assures the public that the water is safe to drink.
  • Diamond Head Reservoir -- The State gave the Diamond Head Reservoir to the BWS. However, there is a State property in the front. BWS understands trespassing and security issues and it will install a fence in the front of the access road shortly.

Comments followed:

1. Lights -- Armentrout thanked Borromeo for following up on the fence and for the lights on Bertram Street. There are fewer people loitering in the area.

2. Red Hill Fuel Tank Leak -- Matson asked and Borromeo answered to visit contactus@hbws.org to get links to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and State Department of Health (DOH) websites for the Red Hill fuel tank leak.

3. End of Kepa Street -- Wong asked and Borromeo answered that the fence was at the end of Collins/Kepa Streets.

4. Water Main Breaks -- Wong noted that there were three (3) water main breaks on Wai'alae Avenue. Borromeo mentioned that the old mains need to be replaced and for May 2015 and June 2015, there were no breaks.

5. Coordination -- Villers suggested that BWS should coordinate water main replacement and repaving with the City. Waialeale also urged Department of Transportation Services (DTS)/BWS coordination. Borromeo agreed.

6. Fence Update -- Chair West mentioned that Scott C. Ballentyne, who brought this issue up at the May 2015 meeting, received a letter, stating that the BWS will remove the chain and install a chain link fence by the end of July. Chair West asked Borromeo to update each month. Borromeo will follow up.

FILLING OF VACANCY ON THE BOARD -- Chair West noted that the vacancy was incorrectly listed on the agenda. The filling of the vacancy in Subdistrict 3 (Diamond Head), due to the resignation of Carol Hoshiko, will be deferred to the next meeting.

MEETING DETERMINATION-DATE/TIME/LOCATION (AUGUST 2015 to JUNE 2017) -- Chair West asked for a motion for the date/time/location. Armentrout moved and Miller seconded that the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 continue to meet on the second Thursday of the month at the Ala Wai Clubhouse, second floor, starting at 6:30 p.m. As there were no objections, the motion was ADOPTED by UNANIMOUS CONSENT 13-0-0 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Matson, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, Waialeale, West, and Wong; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

DETERMINATION OF BOARD RECESS SCHEDULE (AUGUST 2015 to JUNE 2017) -- Chair West asked for a recess motion. Villers moved and Miller seconded that the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 recess in December 2015 and December 2016. Chair West answered for Armentrout that the Board will take up recesses as they come up, like the recent recess in June 2015. As there were no objections, the motion was ADOPTED by UNANIMOUS CONSENT 13-0-0 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Matson, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, Waialeale, West, and Wong; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

REQUEST TO PARTICIPATE IN THE 'OLELO BROADCAST PROGRAM OR TO REQUEST FUNDS FOR AN ANNUAL NEWSLETTER -- Chair West mentioned that the Board has not participated in the 'Olelo broadcast program. Villers moved and Peralto seconded that the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 participate in the ‘Olelo broadcast program. Wong was in favor of the motion, as neighbors could see what was happening at the meetings. Miller thought it would be a waste of the taxpayers' money. Chair West confirmed for Matson that the money could either go to 'Olelo or for the newsletter. Villers supported the motion, as he benefits by watching what other Boards are doing. Wong added that last year the motion for a newsletter passed, but a newsletter was not done. Wong noted the community did not get any information and the money was not spent. Armentrout asked what the cost for videotaping versus the newsletter. Constantinauadded that the cost was about the same. Secretary Pro Tem Villers took a roll call vote. The motion was NOT ADOPTED 5-6-2 (AYE: Allen, Matson, Peralto, Villers, and Wong; NAY: Armentrout, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Persons, St. Denis, and Waialeale; ABSTAIN: Narita and West).

Chair West asked for a motion for newsletter. Villers moved and Armentrout seconded that the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 request newsletter funds. Peralto asked for a more timely distribution of the newsletter. Chair West noted the comment. Secretary Pro Tem Villers took a roll call vote. The motion was ADOPTED 11-1-1 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, West, and Wong; NAY: Matson; ABSTAIN: Waialeale).

ADOPTION OF ORAL TESTIMONY RULES -- Chair West mentioned the "Rules of Speaking: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to raise his/her hand, and when recognized by the Chair, to address comments to the Chair. Speakers are encouraged to keep their comments to less than two (2) minutes, and those giving reports are urged to keep their reports to less than three (3) minutes. Please silence all electronic devices." Villers moved and Armentrout seconded that the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 retain the oral testimony rules as written. As there were no objections, the motion was ADOPTED 12-0-1 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Matson, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, West, and Wong; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: Waialeale).

REPORTS OF MEMBERS ATTENDENCE AT OTHER MEETINGS

Many Meetings -- Matson reported that she attends several community meetings, including the Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA), the Diamond Head Scenic By-ways Committee, and other meetings concerning the Diamond Head district and other communities. Matson could arrange with Chair West to place the meetings' reports on the agenda as they occur.

Waikiki Improvement Association (WIA) -- Armentrout will ask the Mayor's Representative if the Waikiki Improvement Association (WIA) meetings fall under the "Sunshine Law."

ELECTED OFFICIALS

Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative -- Walea Constantinau distributed the City News July 2015 and reported the following:

  • The Wildest Show in Town -- The Summer concert series at the Honolulu Zoo runs from Wednesday, June 3, 2015 to Wednesday, August 5, 2015. For more information call 926-3191 or visit www.honoluluzoo.org/wild.
  • 2015 Twilight Summer Concert Series -- The series runs every Thursday of June 2015 and July 2015. Take a stroll through Foster Botanical Garden in the late afternoon and enjoy a concert from 5:45 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. There is free admission from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • Chinatown -- Last month, it was asked if Hawaii was doing anything like the Pacific Northwest by providing soap, showers, and a place for homeless to maintain cleanliness. The City, along with Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Mental Health Kokua, has opened a public bathroom project at Pauahi Hale in Chinatown. The project, which is managed by Mental Health Kokua's Safe Haven, provides towels and toiletries to patrons and allows them to use the toilets and showers on site. The facilities are open daily.
  • Contractors Repairing Date Street -- Regarding the past Department of Design and Construction (DDC) -Wastewater Division Project, the sewer work on Date Street had minimal excavation and the road has been repaired. For the upcoming DDC-Civil Division Project, Date Street from Pumehana Street to Kapahulu Avenue will be repaved as part of the Rehabilitation of Streets, Unit 74 project. The project is scheduled to be advertised for construction bids in the second quarter of this year. Construction will follow after a contract is executed and the contractor obtains all the necessary permits. Villers clarified his question. As contractors are required to return streets to "as good or better condition," when they do not do it, who pays for the repairs. Constantinau will follow up.
  • Towed Cars -- Call 911 and give the license plate to find out where the vehicle was towed to by All Island Towing.
  • Homeless in Wheelchairs -- Department of Community Services (DCS) responded that service providers, such as Waikiki Care-a-Van, provide services and outreach to the homeless population, including those in wheelchairs. If you know a homeless individual in need, contact Waikiki Care-a-Van at 922-4790.
  • Mattresses Under the Freeway -- The encampment areas under the freeway were determined to be under State's jurisdiction and should be reported to the State of Hawaii for appropriate action.
  • Flashing Lights -- Currently, Department of Transportation Services (DTS) is conducting a pilot project on South King Street, utilizing manually- activated overhead flashing lights, similar to what is being requested for Kapahulu Avenue at Mokihana Street, to improve pedestrian safety. The consultant is finalizing the study, and DTS will use the data to determine if and when it might be appropriate to utilize these types of treatments at other locations, such as Kapahulu Avenue at Mokihana Street. For these reasons, DTS will defer any decision to implement these treatments until the study is completed.
  • KARST Violation -- Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) has no reports from the contractor indicating any gushing water in Waipahu. There are specific protocols in place should anything of this nature occur. The water did not gush. No similar situation exists in Halawa or at any other point on the project that HART is aware of. As to an investigation into these actions, HART continuously monitors the construction teams. They have been well-apprised of topics such as karst intrusion and other environmental issues.
  • Natatorium Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) -- The EIS process involves the publishing of an EIS preparation notice, which informs the public that a proposed action will result in significant environmental impacts and based on that determination, an EIS will be prepared. The next step is the publication of a Draft EIS which initiates the 45-day public comment period. Comments received will be considered in preparing the final EIS. The final EIS will identify the alternative selected and the reason.
  • Road Event on Sunday, April 12, 2015 -- Constantinau mentioned that the response did not answer the question, so she will ask it again in a different way.
  • Electric Skateboards -- In Waikiki, skateboards are prohibited from both sidewalks and roadways. Electric/Motorized skateboards are enforced as such. Currently, there is no law or ordinance that would prohibit the use of skateboards of any kind, except for the special district in Waikiki and in business districts.
  • Pothole -- Resident Daisy Murai reported a pothole, which was repaired. Murai reported that a little more work still needs to be done. Constantinau will follow up.
  • Green Slime/Sludge by the City Mill Hillside -- Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) Director Ross Sasamura will investigate and report back.

Comments followed:

1. Fire on Kapahulu Avenue -- Armentrout mentioned that HFD reported that a gas line caught on fire and that the paving was pushed back from August 2015. Armentrout requested a new timeline.

2. Motorized Bicycles/Skateboards -- Constantinau answered for Armentrout that motorized bicycles and motorized skateboards are not allowed on the sidewalks.

3. Waikiki Improvement Association (WIA) -- Armentrout asked if the WIA is under the Sunshine Law. For Bill 82, the map of neighborhood boundaries do not coincide with the actual boundaries. The map was not corrected. Constantinau answered for Armentrout that the second quarter of this year. Constantinau answered that she would follow up if Diamond Head is included in the Special District.

4. Embedded Lights -- Villers thanked Constantinau for her hard work, but noted he had requested embedded flashing lights at the Safeway crosswalk, not the expensive overhead lights. Matson agreed that the request was for embedded lights, not overhead lights.

5. Flyer from Councilmember Ann Kobayashi -- Matson asked for an explanation of where the property tax dollars collected from the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 were being allocated. Constantinau noted that the funds go into the General Fund, which does not separate tax dollars into Kapahulu projects.

6. HART Violation of KARST -- Matson maintained that a cavern was punctured.

7. Natatorium EIS -- Matson noted that another alternative is forthcoming.

8. Resurfacing of St. Louis Drive -- Allen asked if there were any resurfacing projects for St. Louis Drive.

9. Near City Mill -- Armentrout reported that the trees were cut down on St. Louis Drive by City Mill and replaced with yellow posts. Armentrout raised a concern that a person riding a bike can go right down the cliff into the stream. Armentrout commented that the posts need to be connected.

Chair West noted that the Board is at the half-way point in time and he would like to speed up the agenda.

Councilmember Ann Kobayashi -- Clifford Kaneshiro distributed Councilmember Kobayashi's newsletter and Councilmember Kobayashi highlighted the following:

  • Budget -- The funds go into a General Fund. The City Council met yesterday for a long meeting at Kapolei Hale. Relating to the fireworks ban, sparklers and fountain may be added back, but there is a 50/50 split of the votes in the community. More discussion is needed.
  • Homeless -- Area legislators visited the homeless encampment under the freeway at Kapahulu Avenue and Harding Avenue. Homelessness is a city, state, and federal issue. Businesses at Kilohana Square are suffering, as they are losing customers and must pay for the clean-up of the mess left by the homeless. Market City hired a security guard, who got beat up. Long-time customers no longer want to go anymore. Letters have been sent to the State Department of Transportation (HDOT). Everyone must get involved with providing affordable housing.
  • Plastic Bag Ban -- The plastic bag ban started on Wednesday, July 1, 2015. Some environmentalists complained that the ban did not go far enough. More monitoring is needed.

Comments followed:

1. Bicycles -- Armentrout mentioned that bicycles should be licensed. If bicycles do not have headlights and red reflectors, the owners should be cited. Councilmember Kobayashi noted that HPD has many areas to check.

2. Subsidies -- Villers noted that if subsidies are provided to the homeless, then mandatory financial training should also be provided. Councilmember Kobayashi will follow up.

3. Bill 26 -- Matson asked and Councilmember Kobayashi answered that sponsorship, not advertising, was encouraged at the Zoo.

4. Harding Avenue -- Waialeale suggested a presentation on this issue. When a presentation can be made, Chair West will put the homeless at Harding Avenue on the agenda, as it is a Federal, State, and City issue.

Councilmember Trevor Ozawa -- Kurt Tsuneyoshi distributed Councilmember Ozawa's newsletter and reported the following: Speeding on Leahi Avenue between Kapahulu Avenue and Monsarrat Avenue -- On Wednesday, April 29 and Thursday, April 30, 2015, HPD conducted two (2) speeding enforcement actions. One (1) citation was issued.

Comments followed:

1. Stop Sign -- St. Denis again requested a crosswalk between the community garden and Kapi'olani Park and a stop sign at Puulei Circle and Leahi Avenue. St. Denis wondered why no speeders were caught.

2. Councilmember Trevor Ozawa -- Matson noted that Councilmember Ozawa has not attended the meetings even when Bill 82 was on the agenda. Chair West asked Tsuneyoshi to follow up.

Governor David Ige's Representative -- No representative was present and no report was available.

Senator Les Ihara, Jr. -- A staff person from Senator Ihara's Office had called to notify the Board of his absence.

Senator Sam Slom -- Allen distributed Senator Slom's newsletter and reported the following:

  • Injury -- Senator Slom had an ankle injury and is recovering at home.
  • Veto List -- There are eight (8) bills on the veto list. There is no override discussion. The deadline to veto the bills is Tuesday, July 14, 2015.
  • Special Session -- There will be a Senate Special Session for judicial nominations and appointments.

Chair West expressed the Board's wishes for a speedy recovery for Senator Slom.

House Speaker Emeritus (HSE) Calvin Say -- HSE Say congratulated new and returning Board members on their election or re-election and reported the following:

  • Parking Along St. Louis Drive -- HSE Say thanked Councilmember Kobayashi and Cliff Kaneshiro for putting in the request for parking on St. Louis Drive.
  • Bed and Breakfasts (B&B) up St. Louis Heights -- Residents asked if there were any B&B on St. Louis Heights. There were none listed.
  • Pothole -- HSE Say mentioned that there was a pothole on the 1500 block.
  • Homeless -- HSE Say mentioned that Councilmember Kobayashi had reported that area legislators had visited the homeless encampment under the freeway.
  • Trees on St. Louis Drive -- The City was contacted about the six (6) trees.

Comments followed:

1. B&B -- Narita mentioned that many home owners are renovating their homes with rooms for rent and noted there may be more than five (5) unrelated people living there. HSE Say noted that residents should be self-policing, but violators may be reported to the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP), per Constantinau. Chair West requested that Constantinau get the inspectors' phone numbers. If there are violations found, HSE Say added that that the public can check with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) to see if the papers are filed and with the Department of Taxation for the General Excise Tax (GET). Narita noted that they are not paying taxes on their income and someone should investigate.

2. Letter to State Department of Transportation (HDOT) Fujikami -- HSE Say had copies of the letter sent to the HDOT about the site visit under the freeway at Harding Avenue.

Representative Bert Kobayashi -- Representative Kobayashi distributed his newsletter and reported the following:

  • Red Hill Fuel Tanks -- Representative Kobayashi had three (3) copies of an 11-page letter, signed by 17 legislators, requesting faster corrective measures. Representative Kobayashi suggested using the BWS' extend comment period. The Navy has kept the leaks secret for 50 years.

Comments followed:

  1. Hawaii Health Connector -- Narita noted that the Legislature let the Hawaii Health Connector in and over half of its Board resigned. The Health Connector cannot meet to make decisions. Narita asked who is monitoring it and asked when the Health Connector would be dissolved. Representative Kobayashi noted that the Health Connector did not float the $30 million loan. The Governor is letting the Federal Health Connector take over. The State Department of Health (DOH) had asked if the Hawaii's Prepaid Health Plan could qualify over the federal requirements. Now, the federal government agreed.
  2. Sea Wall -- Persons thanked Representative Kobayashi for his support for the residents at the Sea Wall.
  3. 11-Page Letter -- Matson requested a copy of the 11-page letter. Representative Kobayashi will follow up. Chair West will forward a packet of information to the Neighborhood Assistant to distribute with the 11-page letter.
  4. Letter to HDOT -- Representative Kobayashi was aware that there was a meeting after the homeless site visit, but he does not know what was discussed.

Representative Scott Nishimoto -- Kevan Wong distributed Representative Nishimoto's newsletter and reported the following:

  • Veto List -- Governor Ige gave his reasons for his veto list.
  • Concerns -- K. Wong was available to hear concerns.

Chair West noted the time and will speed up the agenda.

RESIDENTS'/COMMUNITY CONCERNS

American Heart Association Oahu Heart Walk -- Jacqui Phenicie had distributed a flyer on road closures and parking restrictions and departed the meeting. Chair West mentioned that Neighborhood Assistant Ho had e-mailed the flyer to Board members and the e-distribution list.

Proposed Lot Width Variance, 3257/3253 Olu Street -- Dennis Silva had a three (3)-page handout on the requested variance. The request is to ask for a one and a half (1.5) foot variance of the 50-foot requirement. Upon filing, the variance request will go to public hearing. No Board action was taken.

Culinary Institute of the Pacific at Diamond Head -- Carol Hoshiko mentioned that Jacobsen Construction is from the Big Island of Hawaii. After an archeological monitoring plan is done, then clearing of the land at the former Cannon Club site can begin. Permits were issued in June 2015 and Monday, September 14, 2015 is the estimated start of construction. The expansion will take place in phases and updates will be provided. On a personal note, Hoshiko thanked the voters in the recent Neighborhood Board elections. Although she was elected to the Board in Subdistrict 3 (Diamond Head), she had to resign her seat, as she was moved out of her house, which was being renovated and out the district. However, Hoshiko still works at Kapi'olani Community College (KCC) and is able to report back periodically. Miller added that the Board appreciated Hoshiko running for the Board.

Light Lei/Pedestrian Safety -- Lyle Tenjoma, a dentist by profession and inventor, mentioned that pedestrians, walkers, and bicyclists are invisible to drivers. Tenjoma demonstrated his light-emitting diodes (LED) lei. Armentrout asked and Tenjoma answered that he has visited other communities, but has not reached out to the bicycling community yet.

PRESENTATIONS

TheBus Title VI Program -- Jose Rodrigues from the Department of Transportation Services Public Transit Division explained that because DTS receives federal funds for TheBus and The Handi-Van, it must comply with the anti-discrimination provisions of the Title VI regulations. Rodrigues distributed one (1) "hard copy" of the draft report. Electronic copies are available. The public hearing will be on Tuesday, September 1, 2015, and the public comment period goes to Tuesday, September 15, 2015 with the final draft is due out in December 2015. Public input is welcomed and forms are available tonight.

Bill 82, Waikiki Improvement District Update -- Rick Egged of the Waikiki Improvement Association (WIA) was not present. He had told Chair West that he had nothing new to report and wanted to wait until the next WIA meeting. Matson mentioned that the Office of Information Practices (OIP) had notified the Board that the WIA came under the OIP and required six (6)-day public notice. Matson had spoken with Egged and requested notification of the meetings. Matson suggested checking the website for notice of the meetings.

BOARD BUSINESS

Approval of May 14, 2015 Regular Meeting Minutes -- Chair West asked for a motion to approve the May 14, 2015 regular meeting minutes. Miller moved and Allen seconded that the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 approves the May 14, 2015 regular meeting minutes as circulated. As there were no objections, the motion was ADOPTED by UNANIMOUS CONSENT 13-0-0 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Matson, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, Waialeale, West, and Wong; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

Creation of Board Committees and Members

Designation of Committee Chairs by Board Chair

Subdistrict 1 (St. Louis Heights) -- Armentrout nominated Julie Allen to be Subdistrict 1 Chair and Miller seconded the nomination. As there were no other nominations or objections, the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 elected Julie Allen to be the Chair of Subdistrict 1 by UNANIMOUS CONSENT 13-0-0 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Matson, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, Waialeale, West, and Wong; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

Subdistrict 2 (Kapahulu) -- Miller nominated Bertha Naho'opi'i to be Subdistrict 2 Chair and St. Denis seconded the nomination. As there were no other nominations or objections, the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 elected Bertha Naho'opi'i to be the Chair of Subdistrict 2 by UNANIMOUS CONSENT 13-0-0 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Matson, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, Waialeale, West, and Wong; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

Subdistrict 3 (Diamond Head) -- Chair West nominated Laura St. Denis to be Subdistrict 3 Chair and Miller seconded the nomination. As there were no other nominations or objections, the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 elected Laura St. Denis to be the Chair of Subdistrict 3 by UNANIMOUS CONSENT 13-0-0 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Matson, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, Waialeale, West, and Wong; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

O'ahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OahuMPO) Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) -- Chair West appointed Narita to continue representing the Board.

Naupaka Plants on Diamond Head Road -- Matson noted that the Diamond Head State Monument Foundation has turned over the caring for the naupaka to the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR). Matson will be meeting with the DLNR,

O'ahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OahuMPO) Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) -- Narita suggested that Barbra Armentrout be named as an alternate to the CAC. Chair West appointed Armentrout to be the alternate.

Subdistrict 1 -- In the last two (2) months Narita mentioned that Civil Defense closed two (2) sirens on St. Louis Heights and it is difficult to hear the sirens. Civil Defense has been notified and it is monitoring the new sirens.

Forming of Committees -- Matson suggested forming an ad hoc committee to discuss various Board-related topics and report back. Chair West noted taking the suggestion under advisement.

Natatorium Update -- Wong received a letter, regarding the Final Stakeholder Scoping Report for the Waikiki War Memorial Complex, Project Environmental Impact, from Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Director Robert J. Kroning. The letter read, "The City would like to provide an update on the status of the EIS. It was previously anticipated that the Draft EIS would be ready for publication in the summer of 2015; however, its release will be delayed. Comments received during the scoping process and on the Final Environmental Assessment/ Environmental Impact Statement Preparation Notice (FEA-EISPN) have revealed the need for the City to conduct additional analysis of existing alternatives….Initial consultations with the State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) under Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 6E suggest that inclusion of additional alternatives may be required….Our goal is to keep the delay to less than 18 months."

Act 91, Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) Notice -- As most Board members have heard about Governor Ige signing of Act 91, Chair West did not elaborate.

At 8:40 p.m. Villers moved and Armentrout seconded that the meeting be extended 10 minutes. As there were no objections, the meeting was extended for 10 minutes by UNANIMOUS CONSENT 13-0-0 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Matson, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, Waialeale, West, and Wong; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

Notices/Resolution

McCully-Mo'ili'ili Neighborhood Board No. 8 Remediation and Repaving of Date Street -- Chair West referred the resolution to Villers to see what the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 would do.

Noise Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) -- The McCully-Mo'ili'ili Neighborhood Board No. 8 PIG did extensive research and presented their findings. Lockwood is getting many Neighborhood Boards together to approach the City Council. Lockwood stated that there is little support for any legislation in the State Legislature.

McCully-Mo'ili'ili Neighborhood Board No. 8 Reinstitute Military Helicopters for Civilian Medevacs -- Chair West referred this item to Narita. Lockwood mentioned that the use of military helicopters declined in 2002 due to troop deployment. The troops have returned.

Comments followed:

1. Medevac -- Narita mentioned the company Evergreen, but cannot find any information.

2. Date Street -- Villers will talk with Lockwood after the meeting.

REPORTS

Treasurer's Report -- Chair West mentioned that the Treasurer's report will be filed as written.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

  • Civil Beat Law Center will be doing a seminar on the Sunshine Law on Wednesday, July 29, 2015. Interested persons may contact Chair West for details.
  • Chair West had an update on Collins/Kepa Streets.
  • Bill 52, related to parking in the neighborhood -- Armentrout noted that the bill passed first reading.
  • Armentrout also mentioned that helicopters will be flying next week.
  • Armentrout noted that Bertha Naho'opi'i was honored for 35+ (38) years on the Neighborhood Board at the Neighborhood Board Installation Ceremony on Saturday, June 27, 2015.
  • Miller asked Villers to announce that he and his wife have a new son.
  • Miller added that Lee Manfredi has a charming daughter and that Wong knows about Manfredi's health problems. Wong has been going back and forth to the mainland for treatments and she is not doing well. Chair West requested that Miller and Wong keep the Board informed about Manfredi's health.
  • Waialeale requested from Councilmember Kobayashi a presentation on debt service, which is about 20%.
  • Peter Bourne mentioned the Tin Man Triathlon will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2015, from 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The Dick Evans Memorial Road Race will be coming later. St. Denis mentioned the problems on Monsarrat Avenue at the Unity Church. Bourne mentioned that the Unity Church is not a concern for the Tin Man Triathlon or the Dick Evans Memorial Road Race. However, as Bourne is part of the Honolulu Marathon Race, the organizers are aware of the Unity Church issue and want to work out an acceptable solution.

ADJOURNMENT -- As there was no further business before the Board, Chair West adjourned the meeting at 8:51 p.m.

Submitted by:

K. Russell Ho, Neighborhood Assistant

Reviewed by:

Risé Doi, Neighborhood Assistant II

Reviewed by:

Bryn Villers, Secretary Pro Tem, Linda Wong,

Michelle Matson, Bert Narita, and George West, Chair

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