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Diamond Head, Kapahulu, Saint Louis Neighborhood Board No. 5 Minutes Posted For LAST MEETING (MAY 12, 2016)
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Diamond Head/ Kapahulu/ St. Louis Neighborhood Board No. 5
DRAFT -- REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2016
ALA WAI CLUB HOUSE
CALL TO ORDER -- Chair George West called the meeting to order at 6:32 p.m. A quorum was established with 12 members present. (Note -- This 15-member Board requires eight (8) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.) Chair West welcomed and thanked everyone to the meeting.
Members Present -- Julia Allen, Barbra Armentrout, Michelle Matson (arrived at 7:45 p.m.), Bertha Naho'opi'i, Bert Narita, Keolu Peralto, Don Persons, Ali Pohl (appointed at this meeting), Barbara Miller, Laura St. Denis, Bryn Villers, Jerry Wanager, George West, and Linda Wong.
Members Absent -- George Waialeale.
Guests -- Lieutenant Phillip Buchanan (Honolulu Police Department, District 7); Captain Albert McCollum (Honolulu Fire Department); Shawn Tsuha (Governor David Ige's Representative, Public Safety Department, Deputy Director); Walea Constantinau (Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative, Honolulu Film Office); Ross Sasamura (Department of Facilities Maintenance); Councilmember Trevor Ozawa and Francis Choe (Councilmember Trevor Ozawa's Office); Ann Wong (Board of Water Supply); Carol Hoshiko (Kapiolani Community College/Culinary Institute of the Pacific); Matthew Alonzo (SEY Engineers); Wayne Tomita and Mark Garrity (Department of Transportation Services); Amy Perruso (HSTA); Mia Noguchi and Devin Nekoba (Anela Gardens); Donna Ching (Friends of the Natatorium); Laveryn Tawaka, Jan Bappe, Rex Caballero, Scott Ballentyne, Daisy Murai, Margo Ige, Mary Jones, Amy Brown, Franklin Chung, and Takashi Murayama (Residents); and Sam Wolff (Neighborhood Commission Office).
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Rules for Speaking -- For all wishing to speak on items not already on the agenda, fill out a Community Concern form at the front desk and turn into the Chair or Neighborhood Assistant.
PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD - Waikiki Station) -- Captain Albert McCollum reported the following:
• April 2016 Statistics -- There was 1 structure fire, 2 nuisance fires, 0 cooking fires, 4 activated alarms, 131 medical emergencies, 1 motor vehicle collision with a pedestrian, 2 motor vehicle crash collisions, 0 mountain rescues, 3 ocean rescues, and 1 hazardous materials incidents.
• Fire Safety Tip -- Wildland fires, also known as brush fires, can cause extensive damage in communities. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests taking the following preventative steps around the home:
o Remove flammable materials, such as dead vegetation and wood piles, from within 30 feet of the home.
o Keep the lawn hydrated and maintained. If the lawn is brown, cut it down to reduce fire intensity. Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for brush fires.
o Clear leaves and other vegetative debris from roofs, gutters, porches, and decks. This helps prevent embers from igniting the home.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Gas Tanks -- Armentrout asked and McCollum stated that if gas has been sitting in a container for a long time the gas should not be used anyways because of the potential damage to the engine.
2. Hollinger Street -- Resident Murai thanked HFD for their efforts in helping to prevent the fire spreading on Hollinger Street.
Honolulu Police Department (HPD - District 6, Waikiki/Diamond Head) -- Lieutenant Philip Buchanan reported the following:
• April 2016 Statistics -- There were 11 robberies, 7 burglaries, 205 thefts, 33 unauthorized entries into a motor vehicle (UEMV), 56 speeding, 666 parking, 6 loud muffler, and 101 park closure citations with 14 arrests. There were 4,121 total calls for service.
• Safety Tip -- When at a traffic light that turns green, wait a few seconds before going through an intersection to avoid any cars trying to speed through the red light.
• Coffee with a Cop -- On Friday, May 20, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. at the McDonalds in Waikiki there will be an opportunity to chat with a police officer.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Homeless Woman -- St. Denis stated there is a homeless woman at the Elks Club who is very polite but may need some help.
2. Gentleman Living in Range Rover -- Armentrout stated there is a man in a Range Rover living at Kapiolani Park in his car by the archery range.
3. Parades: Wong asked if Buchanan could follow up with info on parades that are passible.
Honolulu Police Department (HPD- District 7, Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights) -- Lieutenant Clinton Sukekane introduced Sergeant Tsuha and reported the following:
• April 2016 Statistics -- There were 11 motor vehicle thefts, 4 burglaries, 42 thefts, and 11 unauthorized entries into a motor vehicle (UEMV). District 7 had 6,663 total calls for service.
• Safety Tips -- Move Over Law -- If a driver cannot pull over for an emergency vehicle then slow down to avoid any injuries.
The Board of Water Supply was added to the agenda with UNANIMOUS CONSENT. 12-0-0 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, Wanager, Wong and West; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).
Board of Water Supply (BWS) -- Ann Wong reported the following:
• April 2016 Main Break Report -- On Monday, April 11, 2016 there was a water main break on Leahi Avenue and Hollinger Street.
• 2016 Water Conservation Week Poster and Poetry Contests Winners Announced -- The BWS would like to thank the 1,900+ student artists and poets who participated in the 2016 Water Conservation Week poster and poetry contests. Their art and poetry depicted our contest theme, "Pure Water -- There is No Substitute." The full list of winners and an online art gallery are available on the BWS website, www.boardofwatersupply.com. Also, these posters and poems will be on exhibit at:
o Honolulu Hale Gallery from Wednesday, April 27, 2016 to Thursday, May 19, 2016.
o Kapolei Hale from Tuesday, May 24, 2016 to Thursday, June 2, 2016.
o Kahala Mall from Monday, June 6, 2016 to Friday, June 24, 2016.
o Windward Mall from Monday, June 27, 2016 to Friday, July 15, 2016.
o BWS Public Service Building Lobby from Monday, July 18, 2016 to Friday, August 12, 2016.
• Water Matters Customer Newsletter -- The latest edition of the BWS's customer newsletter, Water Matters, is currently being distributed to BWS customers as a water bill insert. The spring 2016 issue shares information on the history of the BWS as a semi-autonomous government agency, upcoming water system improvement projects, xeriscape garden activities, and more. Please contact the Communications Office at 748-5041 with any questions or concerns.
• Galvanized Pipes -- Galvanized iron pipes are actually steel pipes that are covered with a protective layer of zinc. A galvanized water pipe would not leach harmful chemicals into the water. However, over time, as the zinc coating on a galvanized pipe erodes, the iron metal is exposed and corrodes. The customer may experience problems such as low water pressure and low flow as corrosion products accumulate in the pipe. Residents should consider replacing their plumbing if they have corroded galvanized plumbing. BWS does not routinely test for lead inside a customer's home. However, if a customer has a specific concern, BWS water quality laboratory technicians can make arrangements to investigate further. At home, it is a good practice to flush the water for a few minutes prior to using for cooking or drinking especially when water has not been used for several hours. Flushing helps to eliminate brown or yellow discoloration coming from the rusting of the pipe interior. Also, rust particles, loosened when water lines are disturbed, can be eliminated by flushing.
Filling of Vacancy in Subdistrict 3 (Diamond Head) -- Ali Pohl -- Pohl stated that she lives by Kapiolani Park and would like more parking at the Natatorium.
The Board recessed at 6:49 p.m.
The Neighborhood Assistant confirmed Pohl's residence in Subdistrict 3.
The Board reconvened at 6:50 p.m.
Discussion Followed:
1. Overview -- Wong asked if a resume can be provided and Pohl stated she has been here for seven (7) years, does a lot of volunteer work for races, and helps at the community garden.
2. Residence -- Armentrout asked and Pohl responded she lives by Kapiolani Park in Pualei Circle.
3. Previous Profession -- Villers asked and Pohl responded that she is retired and used to work with health clubs in management.
4. Does not know Pohl -- Wong stated that she does not know Pohl even though they both reside in Pualei Circle.
Pohl was nominated to the Board with UNANIMOUS CONSENT. 12-0-0 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, Wanager, Wong and West; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).
The Neighborhood Assistant administered the Oath of Office.
Pohl joined the Board at 6:53 p.m.; 13 members present.
PUBLIC EVENTS AND NOTICES
Liquor Commission Preliminary Hearing May 5, 2016 Anela Gardens -- Update, Devin Nekoba presented the following:
• Apology -- Nekoba apologizes and stated that he would notify the Board when submitting their application for the liquor license and he did not. It was not the fault of Anela Gardens but of his own.
• Going Door to Door -- Nekoba stated that he has been walking through the neighborhood within a 500 foot radius of Anela Gardens talking with members of the community.
• Facilities Operational Policies -- Nekoba stated that when going before the liquor commission there will be self-imposed restrictions:
o Wedding packages that include a three (3) drink maximum.
o No liquor license transfers to any future businesses at the location.
o Liquor service will stop at 8:00 p.m.
o Events that will require more parking than what is available on property will utilize a valet service that will park at an off-site location that Anela Gardens reserve and not within the neighborhood.
o Delivery of any items for weddings are delivered on property via Kanaina Street access so as not to block street traffic.
o No party larger than 30 will be allowed to have a reception outdoors on site.
o Anela Gardens will agree to a six (6) month probationary period during which time they can show that they are fully capable of the responsibility of the license and will report back to the liquor commission.
o Annually survey the neighbors for feedback and concerns.
o Annually identify a community cause that will benefit local charitable organizations.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Enforcement of Self-imposed Policies -- Villers asked and Nekoba responded that the policies will be enforced because the liquor commission will receive complaints of violations.
2. Neighbors on Kaunaoa Street -- St. Denis stated that the neighbors on Kaunaoa Street have complained of patron parking. Nekoba stated that if there are issues or problems the business will be more than happy to work with the community.
3. Limos -- St. Denis asked and Nekoba responded that there is no parking for limos and limos should be coming individually.
4. Final Hearing -- The final hearing with the Honolulu Liquor Commission is set for Friday, July 7, 2016 at 4:00 p.m. Notices have been sent out to the surrounding area within a 100 to 500 foot range. Chair West asked and Nekoba confirmed that notices have all been mailed to the addresses within 500 feet of Anela Gardens.
5. Blocked In -- Wong stated that she often gets blocked in by the limos when driving by there and Nekoba stated that it should not be happening and will address the issue.
6. Wedding Count -- Wong asked and Nekoba replied that there have not been less weddings and that most attendees have a quick wedding and reception and then go to the beach for pictures.
7. Probationary Period -- Villers requested that the probationary period hearing be advertised so that the community is aware of it and can provide feedback.
8. Alcohol in Residential Area -- Wong stated that she has received lots of emails about having alcohol in a residential area. Nekoba stated two (2) protests have been filed, one (1) from Representative Bert Kobayashi and another from an anonymous group.
9. Notices for Hearing -- Murai asked when she will be receiving her notice for the public hearing and Nekoba said that she and her neighbors should have received it already. Murai said that no one has received the notices as of yet.
10. Movie Night -- Murai stated that the movie night being held at Anela Gardens is the same night as the Kaimuki High School graduation at the Waikiki Shell. Nekoba said the event is called Cinema Under the Stars and the community is invited to come down.
11. Ingress and Egress -- Murai stated that just because Anela Gardens went through the preliminary hearing and are on to the next step is only one (1) condition and there are many other conditions. The community needs this feedback and neighbors are ready to sign a protest because they do not want a liquor license in a residential area. The ingress and egress are both on residential streets.
12. Movie -- Parsons asked and Nekoba responded that the movie will be Finding Nemo. Miller asked and Nekoba responded that three (3) people that have RSVP'd.
13. Liquor Application -- Resident Ige stated the Board members do not understand the process of a liquor license protest or the importance of having an application legally submitted to the adjudicating body on matters like this which is the Honolulu Liquor Commission. Up until now, presentations have been given by a private company of wishes and hopes for a liquor license on a 32,000 square foot property which has testimony submitted from the original company that applied for a liquor license that they need to make their profits back. Ige further inquired if anyone is aware of the community's attitudes on the property and if the Board members are aware of exact category of liquor license this company has applied for. Ige requested for the Board to do their due diligence on what is actually occurring. The community has reacted with fury to this mailing and the horrid nuisances that the company is saying they wish to spare the community from. Ige suggested to the Board that when the application is received that they should review it and look up the plot numbers and how Anela Gardens justifies giving an address of Monsarrat Avenue.
Ekiden Run -- Chair West stated the Ekiden Run will be held on Sunday, May 22, 2016 at 5:30 a.m.
Hibiscus Half Marathon -- Chair West stated the Hibiscus Half Marathon will be held on Sunday, May 29, 2016. There currently is a permit application in.
PRESENTATION
Sidewalk, Monsarrat Ave -- Bus Stop Paki -- Department of Transportation Services (DTS) Deputy Director Mark Garrity and Wayne Tomita presented the following and distributed a handout:
• Honolulu Urban Bus Project -- Garrity stated that a grant application was submitted for a battery electric bus circulator system that would service primarily Waikiki and Ala Moana and potentially the University of Hawaii at Manoa. The intention is to upgrade all diesel buses to electric battery which are cleaner and quieter. The bus stops in Waikiki will also be upgraded.
• Sidewalk Addition -- Tomita stated that the project will be Mauka of the Waikiki Shell and alongside Paki Avenue. The project will start at the intersection of Paki Avenue and Monsarrat Avenue and connect to a bus stop at the corner of Diamond Head Road and Monsarrat Avenue. This project will connect the intersection to the bus stop and a nearby restroom. The sidewalk is 420 feet long, five (5) feet wide, and is expected to be constructed in the latter part of 2016. There will not be any demolition of trees or parking spots taken away.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Parking Closures -- Villers asked and Tomita stated that parking will likely not be closed during construction. Tomita stated parking will be along the chain linked fence.
2. Construction Period -- Villers asked and Tomita stated that construction will be one (1) month.
3. Personal Stamp of Approval -- Armentrout stated that she took a walk around where the sidewalk will be going and noted that neither the bench nor any parking will be effected.
4. Rain -- St. Denis stated that when it rains a lot of water gets held there and Tomita said water will go over the walkway.
5. Bus Pad -- Wong asked and Tomita responded there is a bus pad there but they are putting a walkway. Federal funds have a narrow scope to connect bus stops and transit centers to each other to be more accessible for all users.
Leahi Avenue Sidewalk Request, Ownership/Jurisdiction -- Department of Facilities Maintenance (DFM) Director and Chief Engineer, Ross Sasamura, reported the following: Overview -- The report provided by Jones was very thorough regarding the sidewalk segment from Monsarrat Avenue to Holei Street. Although there are many concerns about pedestrian safety, the real issue that stands as a challenge or obstacle is that the segment of Leahi Avenue is privately owned and the City is not able to expend City funds on private property. The City is only able to perform maintenance and do replacement of materials on the street with materials that the street was constructed from. Leahi Avenue does qualify for the maintenance but the pavement cannot be expanded beyond what is already there. Please call the pothole hotline 768-7777 for repairs on Leahi Avenue or any other City street. If there are any other issues that need to be discussed please contact Sasamura's office at 768-3343.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Protocol for Sidewalks on Private Roads -- Chair West asked and Sasamura replied that if the owner of the road cannot be determined there may be an opportunity for abutting property owners to invest in the road and upgrade it. During the 2016 legislative session there was a bill that went through that allows for a Road Commission to be established for the purpose of looking at different roadways and opportunities to provide public benefit where it otherwise could not be done.
2. Road Commission -- The Road Commission can adjudicate what improvements are put in and condemnation can occur.
3. Mapele Road -- Sasamura stated that there was a situation on the Windward Side in December of 2015 where Mapele Road collapsed and was private. The road was the only means for a community to get in and out of their valley. It was an important road because residents, first responders and refuse collection trucks all utilize it. However, because the road was private, the City could not expend funds to repair the road. The residents of the valley who had engineering skills and the equipment got together and did the repairs themselves. While that is an option, not every neighborhood has the skillsets to do that type of work.
4. Abutting Properties -- St. Denis asked and Sasamura replied that although the parcels may be City owned the road itself is its own parcel.
5. House Bill (HB) 2049 -- Armentrout stated that HB 2049 has been sent to Governor Ige for his signature.
6. Damaged Drain -- St. Denis stated that on Campbell Avenue and Kaunaoa Street there is a damaged storm drain inlet. Sasamura stated his email address r.sasamura@honolulu.gov and that he will take care of the issue himself.
7. Ownership of Road -- Jones asked who really owns the road and Sasamura stated that by using the Honolulu Land Information System (HOLIS) sometimes the roadway parcels are available to look up the parcel owners.
8. Unimproved Shoulder -- Jones asked and Sasamura stated that often times when the unimproved shoulders are encountered next to improved shoulders it is because the property owner at the time of improvement was also required to improve the frontage by the local building authority. There are unintended consequences at this point because current codes for streets require underground utilities, curbs, gutters, and drainage and the improvements can result in huge construction costs. There are other methods to improve pedestrian safety such as restriction of parking in that area and greater enforcement of laws already on the books.
9. Next Steps -- Jones asked and Sasamura stated that Jones can go to the Land Court to try and do a title search which may be costly. Another alternative would be to get parking restrictions put in place.
Matson arrived at 7:45 p.m.; 14 members present.
Schools Our Keiki Deserve -- Amy Perruso, Teacher and Member of The Hawaii State Teachers Association (HSTA), presented the following:
• Ten (10) Principles -- The HSTA has researched and developed ten (10) principles to improve the education system in Hawaii.
• Town Hall Meeting -- On Wednesday, August 10, 2016 the community is invited to come and discuss the Every Student Succeeds Act.
• Support from the Board -- Perruso asked the Board if they could pass a resolution in support of the principles of the Schools our Keiki Deserve.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Time of Town Hall -- Armentrout asked and Perruso responded that the Town Hall meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m.
2. Pamphlet -- Villers asked and Perruso responded that the pamphlet has all the principles that will be discussed and the flier has a summary.
RESIDENTS'/COMMUNITY CONCERNS
Dust Problem KCCCA Project Collins St. - Scott Ballentyne, Resident, and Carol Hoshiko, Dean at Kapiolani Community College, reported the following:
• Inundated with Dust -- Ballentyne stated that his family has been in the Kapahulu area since 1889. Ballentyne's family lives on Collins Streets and has been inundated by the dust from the construction project. He supports the project but the dust needs to be resolved. He is speaking on behalf of 63 households in the neighborhood. The dirt is a very fine powder from the construction site that gets on the roofs, carpets, drapes, and clothes. Numerous senior citizens have had to have their homes air conditioned and several people have had new windows put in. The dust is a real concern and several neighbors have banned together to do a stop work.
• Contacted Elected Officials and Parties -- Councilmember Kobayashi, Councilmember Ozawa, Mayor Caldwell, and Jacobson Construction have all been contacted. The State Health Department Clean Air Division was also contacted and said everything was in compliance. Ballentyne has been in constant contact with Chair West and Hoshiko who have been very supportive of this problem. There have been numerous responses from Representative Kobayashi and Councilmember Kobayashi's offices and it is disappointing that Councilmember Ozawa has not gotten back to them and Councilmember Kobayashi has.
• Solution -- After the project is completed there needs to be a solution to remedy the effects of the dust on the nearby residents.
• Hoshiko Has Been Very Helpful -- Ballentyne stated that Hoshiko has been very helpful, caring, and attentive.
• Sprinkler System and Addition of Water Truck -- Jacobson Construction on the Monsarrat Avenue side of the project has been running the sprinklers all day as they perform their work and has a truck dedicated to spraying water on the project site. However, after 4:00 p.m. when the sprinklers stop, the wind takes up the dust again. Chair West asked if during the day the measures taken are sufficient. Ballentyne responded that the amount of dust has been curtailed but it has been requested that a chemical suppressant be included into the water to further reduce the dust but Jacobson Construction does not feel it is necessary. Chair West asked and Ballentyne responded that dust control measures after normal work hours would provide further relief.
• Addressing the Issue -- Hoshiko stated that she has taken all of the messages received and conveyed them to the Capital Improvements Office who in turn has taken them to Jacobson Construction. When complaints started coming in there was a vast reaction to address them. At first, there was a limited amount of water response because there was not a truck that could respond but now there is full-time dedicated person spraying water at the construction site.
• Water Truck -- Hoshiko stated that a problem is the driver has to go up to the Kapiolani Community College (KCC) campus when water runs out. As soon as water is flowing to the construction site then they will be able to refill the water truck at the site and there will not be the delay. Chair West asked and Hoshiko responded the improvements will come soon because the construction of the water main is at 80 percent.
• Other Options -- Jacobson Construction and the Capital Improvements Office have been looking at other options including recommendations that have come in from Councilmembers such as a water tower or another hydrant.
• Chemical Suppressant -- Hoshiko stated that the chemical suppressant was discussed as a solution but it can cause problems because it clogs the holes where the water is coming out and thickens the water and causes thickening on the ground. The Department of Health (DOH) also said it causes problems with contamination.
• Walking Through the Neighborhood -- Hoshiko will be walking through the neighborhood with representatives from Jacobson Construction going to the residences to determine what problems there are.
• Multiple Agents to Address the Problem -- Chair West stated that there are multiple agents to address the problem and that there are widely used chemical suppressants for the purpose of water thickening. Chair West further suggested that the crew should not walk away from the problem just because it is end of the work day. Hoshiko stated that there may be an increase in cost to keeping someone on site overtime and Chair West noted it may be more affordable to take that route rather than having to pay for the consequences of what is happening.
• Update on Project -- Hoshiko distributed an update on the Culinary Institute project as a whole.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed: Volcanic Dust -- Armentrout asked if the problem is this bad because the project is on Diamond Head and Ballentyne stated that it is exacerbated by the project being on a slope and the homes are down wind. St. Denis stated that she works in the community garden and uses compost to deal with the fine soil because the soil does not grow anything the way it is.
Natatorium Alcohol Service -- D. Moskowitz was not available.
ELECTED OFFICIALS
Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative -- Walea Constantinau reported the following:
• Rooster Problem -- Sandwich Isle Pest Control has been contracted to eradicate the feral roosters in this area in the nursery, community garden, Waikiki Shell, and Kapiolani Park sometime between February and June of 2016. Matson stated that she believes Sandwich Isle Pest Control may have already been there and Constantinau stated she will follow up but was told that they are scheduled to come back.
• Enforcement of Regulations -- HPD monitored the Kapahulu area and issued several warnings and one (1) citation regarding the bicyclists on the sidewalk.
• Boulder on St. Louis Drive -- The boulder was removed on April 26, 2016 and a permanent stop sign and post was installed on Kaminaka Street at St. Louis Drive on April 24, 2016.
• No Parking Sign -- There is a no parking sign that should be removed and Sasamura was provided a photo by St. Denis to follow up.
• Trash at 2933 Winam Street -- A Refuse Inspector issued a Notice of Violation (NOV) and a fine of $250 will be assessed if the trash is not removed within seven (7) days. The Refuse Inspector noted that the property has no property manager.
• Vandalism at Parks -- The City and County of Honolulu and Mayor Caldwell is asking people to report any incidents of vandalism at parks and to help prevent further incidents
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Trash on Paliuli Street -- Villers noted that there is trash on Paliuli Street that continually gets piled up on a triangular dirt patch. Constantinau asked and Villers stated the trash is put out regardless of when the bulky item pick up is. Chair West asked and Constantinau stated that the Department of Environmental Services (ENV) will be given this concern.
2. LED Lighting in Crosswalk -- Villers asked and Constantinau stated they did not receive a response regarding that and will follow up next month.
3. Driving Range -- Resident Chung would like to know what work is being done at the driving range and if there will continually be a new manager every five (5) years. Chung further noted that he heard the Golf Division did some research on a high-end golf facility and would like to know if those people will be managing the driving range. Constantinau will reach out to the Department of Enterprise Services (DES) and the golf course administrator for a response.
4. Sports and Entertainment Authority Bill -- Matson stated to the dedicated and concerned residents that the Sports and Entertainment Authority Bill died.
5. Natatorium Women's Bathroom -- Wong stated that the women's bathroom in the natatorium has limu growing in it and needs to be steam cleaned. There is also a urine smell coming from the men's room.
Councilmember Ann Kobayashi -- Armentrout stated that Councilmember Kobayashi was not in attendance because she is travelling to the mainland for her granddaughter's graduation from the University of California Berkley.
Hearing no objections the agenda was taken out of order to ‘Governor David Ige's Representative'.
Governor David Ige's Representative -- Deputy Director Shawn Tsuha, Public Safety Department, distributed Governor Ige's Capitol Connection and reported the following:
• Fishing Gear in Swimming Area -- The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) apologized and stated that this is a problem that occurs every even year and they are looking for ways to mitigate it.
• Vendor -- Tsuha stated that someone needs to be a complainant and call Mr. Chang. The vendor does have some first amendment rights.
• DOH Vector Control Specialists -- Tsuha spoke with Dr. Pressler who stated the first contingency would be to bring in vector control specialists from the outer islands and the next step would be to call the National Guard. The lack of funding for vector control specialists will be addressed in the budget next year.
• Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) -- Governor Ige is working with teachers on the ESSA act.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Right to Try Bill -- Villers asked and Tsuha responded that he will follow up next month on Governor Ige's veto on Senate Bill (SB) 2181 which would have allowed terminally ill patients to try experimental medication that have not yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
2. Vendor on Diamond Head -- Wong asked why she would have to be a complainant against the guy selling certificates on Diamond Head because she would not be able to remain anonymous if she made a complaint. Tsuha responded that if a criminal complaint will be pursued there has to be a complainant. Matson stated that as a member of the Diamond Head Citizens Advisory Committee this issue has been discussed many times. If someone is standing there handing things out it is a free speech issue but if they set up a table then they are subject to citation but they have to be seen in the act by an officer.
3. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Scam -- Murai stated that the IRS scams are occurring again and she would like the Attorney General to look into the matter.
Senator Les Ihara, Jr. -- Chair West stated that Senator Ihara Jr. was off island with his family.
Representative Bert Kobayashi -- Chair West stated that Representative Kobayashi was off island with his family.
Senator Sam Slom -- Julia Allen distributed the newsletter and reported the following:
• SB 2181 -- Allen stated that Governor Ige's reason for vetoing the bill was that it was not necessary in some form and there was a conflict with some federal regulations.
• Senator Slom is at Home Working -- Senator Slom is at home working and wishes he could be out talking with people. Allen further noted that Senator Slom did not get out of the hospital until Monday, April 25. 2016.
House Speaker Emeritus (HSE) Calvin Say -- House Speaker Emeritus Calvin Say distributed his newsletter and reported the following: Issue in Community -- Speaker Emeritus Say stated that a heavy set woman is praying on the elderly in the community and pretending she is pregnant to be let in to homes in order to steal items.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed: House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) 35 -- Matson requested an update and Speaker Emeritus Say responded that the environmental assessment (EA) is still underway. Matson stated that the Army Corps of Engineers was taking the issue to Washington for further consideration and support before they came back to finalize it. Speaker Emeritus Say said that he really does not know because DLNR testified and said that the measure be deferred. Matson stated that it was a good start and that they should try again next year.
Representative Scott Nishimoto -- Representative Nishimoto was not present and the post session newsletter will be going out at the end of the month: Understanding from Community -- Matson was given confirmation that Representative Nishimoto was aware that the Sports and Entertainment Authority was not well supported in the community.
Councilmember Trevor Ozawa -- Councilmember Ozawa distributed a newsletter and reported the following:
• Budget -- Councilmember Ozawa stated that the City Council is in the final stages of finalizing the budget.
• Parking Structure -- The proposed budget includes $500,000 for a study on a potential zoo parking structure in the Honolulu Zoo area which is supported by 67% of Oahu in a poll of over 1,000 people. It is difficult for people from other parts of the island to come down and go to the Zoo, Aquarium, and Kapiolani Park. The harder it is for people to come, the lower the revenue is going to be. Mayor Caldwell's administration stated that they would like to do weekday concerts at the Waikiki Shell because they feel that it is under-utilized and additional parking could benefit the area.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Kapiolani Park Trust: Matson thanked Councilmember Ozawa for expressing his personal opinions and requested more dialogue. Maston further noted that areas of open space will be consumed by parking and Councilmember Ozawa replied that the parking structure would be placed where there is already parking. Matson stated that where there is parking is a historic landscape and if the trees are torn down for a multi-level parking garage it would be a violation of the historic preservation prevision and the historic trust prevision. Matson stated that the metered parking at the Honolulu Zoo charges a reasonable rate with signs posted indicating use exclusive to the Zoo is not in violation of the Kapiolani Park Trust. Councilmember Ozawa replied he is not looking to increase rates and remove signs and the $500,000 included in the budget is for planning. Matson stated that on TripAdvisor people discuss parking at the Zoo parking lot for hotels which is a violation of the Trust. Chair West asked and Councilmember Ozawa responded that he and his staff are well aware of the requirements of the Kapiolani Park Trust.
2. Diamond Head Special Design District -- Armentrout stated that per the Diamond Head Special Design District, anything by the Zoo or Kapiolani Park cannot be any higher than 25 feet. Councilmember Ozawa will likely be hearing from the Kapiolani Park Preservation Society because of the increase to $500,000. Councilmember Ozawa thanked Armentrout for the feedback.
3. Two (2) Story Parking Lot -- Wong asked if Councilmember Ozawa has anything to do with a two (2) story parking lot at the Zoo where all of the money goes directly to the Zoo and Councilmember Ozawa said no.
4. Bill 30 -- Matson stated that the bill is still under consideration and was introduced by Chair Martin for a special fund for the zoo which is quite reasonable. Matson also concurs with Councilmember Ozawa that they arrange a meeting to discuss things in a civil manner so that what councilmembers are proposing are not contrary to the Trust. Councilmember Ozawa stated that when they meet in a civil manner it is based on a reputation that precedes people and he is open to meeting as long as people leave their attitudes out of the meeting.
5. Kapiolani Park Trust -- Donna Ching, a board member on the Kapiolani Park Preservation Society, stated it is indeed true that in the park, it has to be maintained by court order, that the parking lot charge reasonable rates so having a parking lot as revenue generator to fund Zoo operations is a non-starter. Ching further noted that park land cannot be used for a parking lot because the Trust prohibits it. Kapiolani Park is also not a part of the City's regional park system and is a regional trust. Councilmember Ozawa stated that with any solution a problem can be found and that what he is trying to do is find a solution. There is already pavement in the park in the form of current parking lots and the Waikiki Shell as well as the parking around the park which used to be a race track.
6. Anela Gardens Application -- Murai stated that Councilmember Ozawa's constituents would like him to write a letter to defer the preliminary hearing for Anela Gardens. The community also requests that he get a copy of the application and a copy of the public notice, mailing list, and all materials submitted to the Honolulu Liquor Commission. Councilmember Ozawa stated that all of the materials requested are public record.
REPORTS OF MEMBERS ATTENDANCE AT OTHER MEETINGS
Moped Noise Mitigation Work Group -- Armentrout stated that HB 1753 passed and is on its way to Governor Ige for signing.
BOARD BUSINESS
Approval of April 14, 2016 Regular Meeting Minutes
Wong moved and Miller seconds to incorporate the amendments as proposed by Amy Brown.
Discussion followed:
1. Changing of Vote -- Matson asked Villers to clarify the sequence of events leading to his vote change but what was written in the corrections is not consistent with what was in the minutes.
2. No Procedural Error -- Chair West noted that Bryan Mick from the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) stated that there was no procedural error that occurred. Villers stated that the result of his conversation with Mick was that his change in vote did not violate anything procedurally.
3. Transcripts out of NCO -- Brown stated that Peralto announced a vote of eight (8) and after hearing eight (8) Villers changed his vote. Brown has listened to the tape in the NCO office and there were several transcripts out of the NCO that changed each time.
4. One Ruling from NCO -- Chair West stated that there is a single determination from the NCO that nothing procedurally incorrect occurred.
5. Confusion with Tape -- Wong stated she went to the NCO Executive Secretary Shawn Hamamoto and listened to the tape with him and they could not understand it because there was so much confusion in the tape only somebody that knew the people and voice could understand what was in the tape.
6. Vote has not Changed -- Villers stated that his vote has not changed since the vote was cast and if the Board would like to vote again to clarify that he is in favor of doing so.
7. More Votes than Present Members -- Narita stated that the announced vote had more votes than present members. If there is new testimony or evidence then that warrants further consideration. If it is just for another vote than an official vote was taken, doing it again would be dilatory.
The motion FAILED. 5-4-5 (AYE: Allen, Miller, Pohl, Wanager, and Wong; NAY: Armentrout, Matson, Narita, and St. Denis; ABSTAIN: Naho'opi'I, Peralto, Persons, Villers, and West).
Peralto moved and Matson seconded to adopt the proposed amendments to the April 14, 2016 regular meeting minutes. The motion was ADOPTED. 13-0-1 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Matson, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, Persons, St. Denis, Villers, Wanager, Wong and West; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: Pohl). The amendments are listed below:
1. Page Five (5) -- Under "Dumping Ground at 2933 Winam Street", it should read "Dumping Ground on Paliuli Street" as reported by Boardmember Bryn Villers.
2. Page Five (5) -- under "Dumping Ground at 2933 Winam Street", the entire paragraph that reads "Chair West has received a resident's dust complaint from the Kapi'olani Community College/Culinary Institute of the Pacific expansion project, which Chair West forwarded to Carol Hoshiko and thanked him for satisfying the complaint" should be placed under "Kapiolani Community College/Culinary Institute of the Pacific" report
3. Page 10 -- under Sub-district 2 report, it should read "Winam Ave."
Villers moved and Narita seconded to adopt the April 14, 2016 regular meeting minutes as amended. The motion was ADOPTED. 11-0-3 (AYE: Allen, Armentrout, Miller, Naho'opi'i, Narita, Peralto, St. Denis, Villers, Wanager, Wong and West; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: Matson, Persons, and Pohl).
Request to Add the Natatorium Parking Restoration Resolution to the June 2016 Agenda for Board Action
Miller moved and Villers seconded to add the Natatorium Parking Restoration Resolution to the June 2016 agenda for Board action.
Discussion followed:
1. Park Use -- Matson asked and Brown responded that she frequents the park two (2) to three (3) times a week. Matson inquired that since the Natatorium is closed for repairs where is it that Brown goes that this parking is needed. Brown stated she swims in the water and showers at the Natatorium and is very grateful for the space provided.
2. Kaimana Beach Coalition -- Matson asked and Brown responded that she does not know anything about the Kaimana Beach Coalition.
3. Natatorium is Historic -- Matson stated that the Natatorium is historic and both of the areas in front were reflecting ponds.
4. Neighborhood Plan Supersedes Roberts Rules of Order -- Wong stated that the Neig
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