Palolo Neighborhood Board No. 6 Minutes Posted For <font color="red"><b>4/12/2017</b></font> Posted - Kaimuki

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Palolo Neighborhood Board No. 6 Minutes Posted For 4/12/2017 Posted
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NEXT MEETING - Click here to read next meeting agenda scheduled for 5/10/2017.

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

Palolo Neighborhood Board No. 6

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12, 2017

PALOLO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CAFETERIA

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Randolph Hack called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. A quorum was established with eight (8) members present. Note -- This 13-member board requires seven (7) members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action.

Board Members Present: Ken Aronowitz, Frank Farm, Randolph Hack, Marvin Heskett (arrived at 7:15 p.m.), Mark Leo, Beverly Mau, Darlene Nakayama, Earl Shiraki, and Liv Wheeler.

Board Members Absent: Andrew Chung, Gladys Gerlich-Hayes, Paul Holtrop, Loren Jerlow.

Guests: Lieutenant Clifford Ramson (Honolulu Police Department); Captain Jason Katada (Honolulu Fire Department); Director Ross Sasamura (Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative/Department of Facility Maintenance); Dominic Dias (Board of Water Supply); Cliff Kaneshiro and Councilmember Ann Kobayashi (Councilmember Ann Kobayashi's Office); House Speaker Emeritus Calvin Say; Senator Les Ihara Jr.; Cat Awakuni Colon (State of Hawaii, DCCA); Dominic Dias (Board of Water Supply); Amy Perruso (Hawaii State Teachers Association); Julia Allen, George Akeo, Laurie and J Chivers; Mike Davis, Nikki Guess, Ivan Hole, Sandra Lee. James Nekota, Jo Ann Nishiki, Yvonne Perry and Connie Tokunaga (Residents); Zoe Tanaka (Videographer); and James Skizewski (Neighborhood Commission Office).

CITY MONTHLY REPORTS

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

• March 2017 Statistics: In March 2017 there were 2 activated alarms, 21 medical emergencies, 1 motor vehicle collision with a pedestrian and 1 motor vehicle collision.

• Fire Safety Tip: Escape Planning

o Plan ahead: If a fire breaks out in your home, you may have only a few minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Everyone needs to know what to do and where to go if there is a fire. The Honolulu Fire Department has the following escape planning tips:

 Make a home escape plan.

 Know at least two ways out of every room.

 Have an outside meeting place.

 Practice your home fire drill at night and during the day with everyone in your home, twice a year using different escape plans.

 Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can't help them.

 Close doors behind you to help contain the fire as you leave.

o If the alarm sounds:

 Get out and stay out. Never go back inside for people or pets.

 If you have to escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke.

 Call the fire department from outside your home.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) -- Lieutenant Ramson reported the following:

• March 2017 Crime Statistics: There were 2 motor vehicle thefts, 14 burglaries, 11 thefts, and 31 unauthorized entries into motor vehicles (UEMVs). There were 6,512 calls for service in District Seven (7).

• Safety Tip: Tsunami Preparedness: It is important to be prepared for tsunamis and other storm like events. It is important to have a supply of water, to-go safety kit, medicine, and all other potentially needed items stored and ready before an emergency hits the island. HPD stressed the need for vehicles to be fully gassed and prepared, in case of a need for evacuation. HPD added that it is important to stay off the roads, if possible, during storm events.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Statistics: A resident asked and Lieutenant Ramson explained that this month's statistics are typical. Most calls of service do not result in a report. Lieutenant Ramson urged the community to secure homes even when they are home.

2. District Boundary: A resident asked and Lieutenant Ramson responded that the district runs from Punahou Street to the Makapuu Lighthouse. 16-18 officers are on patrol each shift. The resident asked and Lieutenant Ramson responded that he will pass on the request for a police station in Palolo.

3. Rubbish Bags: A resident noted that kids in the area are ripping open his trash bags dispersing the rubbish in the area. Lieutenant Ramson urged the resident to call 9-1-1 if that kind of activity is witnessed.

4. Palolo Valley Market: Shiraki requested an increased HPD presence at Palolo Valley Market.

5. Kids at Palolo Pool after Hours: A resident reported kids being in the Palolo Recreational Pool after hours. Lieutenant Ramson urged the community to call 9-1-1 to have officers report to the pool when kids are trespassing after hours.

6. Break-Ins: A resident noted multiple break-ins in their neighborhood and asked why people with criminal backgrounds are allowed in public housing. Representative Say responded that housing association do monitor tenants and added that outsiders do come into district and commit crimes. Representative Say noted that he could coordinate a representative from the housing association to come before the board. Chair Hack urged Representative Say to contact him regarding the housing representative.

7. Diamond Head Substation: Resident Nekota asked and Lieutenant Ramson noted that he has no knowledge of plans for a Diamond Head Police Station.

8. Mopeds on Freeway: Resident Nekota asked and Lieutenant Ramson responded that safety inspection will address modified mopeds. Mopeds do not have enough horsepower to be allowed on freeways.

9. Home Entries: Resident Fukunaga asked and Lieutenant Ramson responded that he is not aware of any violent incidents in Palolo. Lieutenant Ramson added that residents are allowed to defend themselves at their residence.

10. Break-Ins: Aronowitz asked and Lietenant Ramson responded that home break-ins are a crime of opportunity. Lieutenant Ramson urged the community to ensure their homes are secure at all times.

11. Juvenile Gangs: Resident Keith asked and Lieutenant Ramson responded that he is unaware of any juvenile gangs in the neighborhood. The reported burglaries are still under investigation. HPD is making every effort to make their presence known. The community must also be vigilant and help one another.

Heskett arrived at 7:15 p.m., nine (9) members present.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) -- Dominic Dias reported the following:

• Main Breaks: There was one (1) main break fixed at 10th Avenue.

• General Water Announcements

o 10th Annual Mauka to Makai Environmental Expo: In celebration of Earth Month, the Board of Water Supply (BWS) will have an educational, interactive booth at the 10th Annual Mauka to Makai Environmental Expo on Saturday, April 22, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Waikiki Aquarium. This free, family-friendly event promotes the importance of keeping Hawaii clean and free of pollution, from the mountaintops to the ocean. This event is free and open to the public. Free parking and shuttles will be available at Jefferson Elementary School beginning at 8:45 a.m. This event is presented by the City and County of Honolulu's Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM), Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) and the Waikiki Aquarium.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. 10th Avenue Main Break: Shiraki noted that the road opposite of the 10th Avenue Main break is damaged. Dias responded that he will pass on the concern and that final repaving of the area will be done.

2. Kuahea Street Project: Resident Chivers asked and Dias responded that other than some water lines being replaced along Kuahea Street there are no other updates. Resident Chivers noted that the contractor for the Kuahea Street project has filed for bankruptcy. Dias responded that he will find out more information regarding the project.

ELECTED OFFICIALS

Councilmember Ann Kobayashi -- Councilmember Kobayashi circulated a newsletter and reported the following:

• Property Tax Use: Councilmember Kobayashi noted her opposition to a bill that has been introduced which will allow the City and County of Honolulu to use a portion of property taxes to pay for rail.

• Palolo Pool: Councilmember Kobayashi noted the receipt of complaints regarding Palolo pool closing as the Manoa Pool will also be closed for the summer. Councilmember Kobayashi added that the pool will be closed due to the proximity of the pool to the gym which will be renovated. Makiki Pool welcomes the community. Councilmember Kobayashi concluded that this situation will most heavily affect the seniors and kids of the community which saddens her.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. Bill 25: Heskett urged Councilmember Kobayashi to consider Bill 25 that will set up an Office of Climate Change to address sea level rise. Councilmember Kobayashi responded that the City and County of Honolulu should be working with UH regarding climate change as it would save the City money and UH would be able to provide the expertise needed to address the issue. Councilmember Kobayashi added that the City and County of Honolulu must be trying to work more efficiently and a new office is not needed.

2. Palolo Pool: Resident Akea raised concerns with the pool closing during the summer as the renovations could be done in the winter. Akeo also added that multiple pools are being closed in the area. Councilmember Kobyashi agreed with some of the concerns raised with the pool closure but added that facilities must be renovated. Councilmember Kobayashi noted her frustrations as it took five (5) years for the McCully pool to be renovated. Shiraki thanked Councilmember Kobayashi for her efforts to protect the middle class. Shiraki asked and Councilmember Kobayashi responded that she has had a meeting at the pool. The repairs of the gym are needed and Councilmember Kobayashi added that the portion of the gym nearest to the pool will be done first to ensure the pool is opened as soon as possible.

3. Pool Hours: A resident voiced concerns with pools opening late and closing earlier restricting pool access to community members who work during the day. Councilmember Kobayashi noted that she will be having a meeting at Makiki Pool to address concerns with pool hour concerns. Resident Nishiki urged the City and County of Honolulu to open the surrounding pools on the weekends and extend pool hours during the renovation period. Councilmember Kobayashi noted that she will pass on the requests.

4. Pool Renovations: Resident Lee raised concerns with the planning of the City and County of Honolulu renovation of the pools. Resident Lee also noted the need to ensure quality work is done.

5. Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR): Resident Guess noted that many issues with the staffing and repairs needed at public parks are resulting in the lack of funding for DPR.

6. Hot Water at Pool: Resident Sakai asked and Councilmember Kobayashi responded that she has requested the plumbing at Palolo pool be addressed including the addition of water heaters for bathroom showers. The pool will not be heated. Resident Sakai voiced his frustrations with the pool situation and the management of the property.

7. Bill 25: Wheeler thanked Councilmember Kobayashi for addressing the communities concern and urged Councilmember Kobayashi to consider Bill 25.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative -- Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) Director Ross Sasamura circulated the Oahu News, then reported the following:

• 28th Annual Hawaii Food Drive: The Neighborhood Commission Office is participating in the 28th

Annual Food Drive with the Hawaii Foodbank. Now through Saturday, April 15, 2017, the NCO will be accepting food or monetary donations towards this worthy cause. The top five (5) most needed foods are canned proteins (meat, tuna, chicken), canned meals (stew, spaghetti, chili); canned vegetables; canned fruits; and rice. Please make checks payable to: The Hawaii Foodbank. Donations may be given to the Neighborhood Assistant at the board meetings or delivered to the NCO at 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160. Donation receipts are available upon request. For more information on how you can help, please contact the NCO at 768-3710 or nco@honolulu.gov.

• 10th Annual Mauka to Makai Environmental Expo: In celebration of Earth Month, the Board of Water Supply (BWS) will have an educational, interactive booth at the 10th Annual Mauka to Makai Environmental Expo on Saturday, April 22, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Waikiki Aquarium. This free, family-friendly event promotes the importance of keeping Hawaii clean and free of pollution, from the mountaintops to the ocean. This event is free and open to the public. Free parking and shuttles will be available at Jefferson Elementary School beginning at 8:45 a.m. This event is presented by the City and County of Honolulu's Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM), Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) and the Waikiki Aquarium.

• Follow Ups:

o Kuahea Street: The Department of Design and Construction (DDC) noted that the Kuahea Street road reconstruction start date is pending submittals for monitoring earth movement, excavation permit and street usage permit.

o Sinkhole Kuahea Street: The contractor filled the void created by the active earth movement with gravel material on 2/22/17. The City will continue to monitor this situation.

o 2117 Palolo Avenue: The Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) issued a Notice of Violation to the abutting property owner for the litter in the sidewalk area.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. 10th Avenue: Shiraki requested a blend line from Makai bound Waiomao Road to makai bound 10th avenue. Hazards are presented by makai bound traffic from Waiomao road to 10th avenue when mauka bound traffic on 10th avenue approach Waiomao Road.

2. Palolo Pool: Shiraki noted the need to open Palolo Pool and provide additional lifeguards. Director Sasamura responded that he will submit all comments regarding the Palolo Pool to DPR. Palolo Pool renovations are needed to address water leaks. Work will be done sequentially to open the pool as soon as possible. Director Sasamura noted his understanding of the frustrations of the community but added that the roofing must be redone in good weather. The contracts have been issued, the money has been appropriated, and the main concern is to maintain the property. The portion of the project to allow the reopening of the pool could be finished by May 2017.

3. Kuahea Street: Sandra Lee requested a status and contracted completion update for the Kuahea Street rehabilitation project completion date.

4. Triangle Park Grass Trimming: Farm noted the need to address overgrowth at Triangle Park at 6th Avenue. Director Sasamura noted that there has been some turnover within the department that addresses overgrowth. More employees are being hired. Director Sasamura added that there is a Malama O Ka Aina project which address community concerns, for more information call 268-3343.

5. Lai Road: Resident Zucker reported illegal dumping of bulky items and trash on 10th Avenue between Lai Road and Palolo Place. Resident Zucker also requested re-consideration of a cross walk on 10th Avenue between Palolo Place and La'i Road where there is an existing curb cut.

6. Illegal Dumping: A resident suggested installation of security cameras to monitor illegal dumping "hot spots" in Palolo Valley to aid in identifying offenders.

Governor David Ige's Representative -- Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) Director Catherine P. Awakuni Colón circulated a newsletter and reported the following:

• Capitol Connection: Director Awakuni highlighted the Capitol Connection which focused on sustainability efforts and touched on how reporting invasive species helps Hawaii. Earth Day is on Saturday, April 22, 2017.

• Pre-Kindergarten: Applications for free pre-kindergarten classes will be due by Saturday, April 29, 2017.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Federal Lawsuit: Shiraki urged Hawaii to drop its lawsuit on President Trump's travel ban as the State should be working with the Federal government to get funds for rail.

2. Ka'au Crater Trail: Wheeler urged Governor Ige to remove the invasive species at the unofficial trail head of the Ka'au Crater.

House Speaker Emeritus Calvin Say -- House Speaker Emeritus Calvin Say circulated a handout and reported the following:

• Short Term Rentals: Representative Say circulated framework for a resolution to address illegal short term rentals.

• Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU): Representative Say circulated ADU applications to help appropriately apply for additional dwelling space.

• Palolo Infrastructure: Representative Say noted that the Palolo Valley infrastructure is old and he worries that if properties continue to be used solely for profit, it will continue to put additional stress on the infrastructure. When the area becomes denser, more issues will occur involving the infrastructure.

• Palolo Pool: Representative Say asked for the community's patience so the proper renovations can be made to improve the Palolo Pool. Representative Say thanked the community for their input.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Banning Styrofoam: Heskett voiced concerns regarding the failed legislation trying to ban Styrofoam containers as testimony was overwhelmingly in support.

2. Illegal Short Term Rentals: Shiraki noted that the City and County of Honolulu must address illegal short term rentals. Representative Say responded that he is trying his best to address the issue at a State level.

3. ADU: Shiraki asked and Representative Say responded that he is trying to get the community to self-police illegal ADUs as it will heavily impact parking and the infrastructure.

4. Death with Dignity: Shiraki asked and Representative Say responded that he voted in support of the Death with Dignity legislation. Representative Say relayed an experience with his father regarding health issues. Shiraki asked and Representative Say responded that the legislation could be visited next session.

5. Kaimuki Library: Chair Hack urged Representative Say to monitor the closing of Kaimuki Library for repairs to ensure it does not continue into the summer where kids are unable to use the library when they are off of school. Representative Say noted he will provide an update next month.

6. Envision Kaimuki: Representative Say urged the community to get involved with the Envisioning of Kaimuki.

Senator Les Ihara: Senator Ihara noted that the Hawaii State legislature is in its 48th of 57 days. The death with dignity legislation did not make it out of its State House Committee. Senator Ihara explained his paycheck to paycheck legislation that will be a revenue neutral bill. Senator Ihara concluded that the last two weeks of the legislature is the most crucial. Senator Ihara welcomed questions.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Doctors Prescribing Housing: Leo asked and Senator Ihara responded that the possibility of doctors being able to prescribe housing is a creative idea but he is unaware of the legislations status.

2. Caregiver Legislation: Shiraki asked and Senator Ihara responded that he is in favor of the legislation that will provide caregivers with a credit for a specific number of days.

PRESENTATIONS

Hawaii State Teachers Association (HSTA): Amy Perruso circulated a resolution and reported the following: Hawaii Schools: Perruso noted that HSTA gained feedback from teachers on how to improve schools that concluded a consensus of over testing, lack of attention to facilities, and a failure to recruit and retain qualified teachers. Of the largest school districts in the United States, Hawaii has the lowest per-pupil expenditures adjusted for cost of living. Hawaii spends the least on its school facilities. Hawaii is ranked the lowest on the amount of spent for school facilities. Hawaii is also ranked the lowest for teachers' salaries which resulted in 1,600 vacancies at the end of the latest school year. At the start of this school year there were 600 vacancies which includes positions filled by non-qualified emergency teaching hires. Public education funding has been neglected in Hawaii. HSTA has put forth a constitutional amendment in the legislature to obtain funding through property taxes of non-resident property owners and tourists. Perruso asked for the board's support on the resolution circulated that will help in the addressing of public school funding.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Feedback: Aronowitz asked about the feedback from the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) and Perruso responded that they haven't received much feedback from HTA but added that many legislators welcome the amendment. More opposition could be produced during the conference period.

2. Investment Properties: Aronowitz asked and Perruso responded that one of the attractive features of Hawaii for investments properties included the fact that base property taxes are low as compared to any other states on the mainland.

Dorris Duke Shangr-La Environmental Assessment (EA): Konrad Ng, Scott Easer, and Ron Sato circulated a handout and reported the following: Dorris Duke Shangri-La Property: Ng noted that the Dorris Duke Shangri-La Property boat basing has been a popular place for illicit activities which resulted in a fence being built along the boat harbor to prevent people from jumping from the harbor's edge into shallow waters. Now people are jumping from the top of the fence posing increased dangers as the waters below are very shallow. Shangri-La wants to maintain public access to the area but remove hazards by lowering the breakwater and restoring the shoreline. Ng noted his attendance to share plans with the board and address any concerns.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Negative Impacts: Heskett noted his support of the project but asked if the Shangri-La management has consulted the University of Hawaii (UH) regarding negative impacts. Easer responded that when Dorris Duke built the property she also obtained the title to a small surrounding water property with the agreement to allow public access. The public access will be maintained but there may be some disruption during the construction period. The long term result will provide public access to the area. An ocean engineer was hired to do the EA draft in 2016 which is now finalized and will be submitted to the State Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR). No negative impacts have been found regarding the project.

2. Opposition: Shiraki noted his opposition to the project as the area is in need of steps and railings. Easer responded that the project is being done to address safety concerns.

3. Submerged Lands: Farm asked and Easer responded that the submerged land owned by the property extends to the Diamond Head breakwater as indicated in the EA. The property's wishes is for the State to take back the submerged land. Wheeler asked and Ng responded that when someone gets hurt on the submerged lands it is an unusual situation which results in the property being liable. The desire to lower the breakwater will minimize risk and incentivize the State to restore the shoreline.

4. Approval: Leo asked and Easer responded that they are presenting to the community for informational purposes. The property will need a Conservation District Use Permit from the DLNR to carry out the project.

5. Results: Shiraki asked and Easer responded that the project is meant to minimize risk to public safety.

BOARD BUSINESS

Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes: The regular meeting minutes for Wednesday, March 8, 2017 were ADOPTED by UNANIMOUS CONSENT as amended, 9-0-0 (Aye: Aronowitz, Farm, Hack, Heskett, Leo, Mau, Nakayama, Shiraki, and Wheeler.; Nay: None; Abstain: none). Amendments include: Page Six (6): A section should be added titled "Picking up the Keys" and should state that Wheeler volunteered to pick up the keys for the next meeting.

REPORTS

Treasurer's Report: Leo noted a remaining balance of $124.92.

Safety Committee: Shiraki urged motorists to slow down and for pedestrians to be more aware when crossing streets.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Heskett announced that he has been putting up the signs and as he is leaving the board at the end of the term he would like to pass the signs on. Mau volunteered to pick up the keys for the next regular meeting of the Board.

Next Meeting: The next Palolo Neighborhood Board No. 6 regular meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 10, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at the Palolo Elementary School cafeteria.

Bulky Trash Pick-Up: Bulky trash should be placed no earlier than one (1) day before the third Wednesday of every month to preserve the beauty of the valley. Call 768-3203 for violations.

Olelo Broadcast Slots: The Pālolo Neighborhood Board No.6 meetings are aired on Channel 49 the first and third Sundays of the month at 12:00 p.m. and the 4th Thursday at 9:00 p.m. or online, anytime at http://www.olelo.org

Social Media: Join us informally at the "Pālolo Valley Community" page on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com. Also stay connected with Pālolo at www.nextdoor.com

Farmers' Market: Every Wednesday from 6:30 a.m. to 7:20 a.m. at Palolo District Park.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 9:17 p.m.

Submitted by: James Skizewski, Public Relations Assistant

Reviewed by: Relley Araceley, Public Relations Assistant

Finalized by: Randolph Hack, Chair

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Kaimuki, Hawaii News Item

Palolo Neighborhood Board No. 6 Minutes Posted For 4/12/2017 Posted

Kaimuki, Hawaii
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