Palolo Neighborhood Board Meeting July 2019 Minutes

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Palolo Neighborhood Board Meeting July 2019 Minutes
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NEXT MEETING - Click here to read next meeting agenda scheduled for 8/14/2019.

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

PALOLO NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 6

INITIAL CONVENING MEETING MINUTES

WEDNESDAY, JULY 10, 2019

PALOLO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CAFETERIA

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Pro Tem Randolph Hack called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Quorum WAS ESTABLISHED with 10 members present. Note - This 13-member board requires seven (7) members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action.

Board Members Present: Shane Albritton, Jesus Arriola, Joshua Frost, Randolph Hack, Beverly Mau, Darlene Nakayama, Rusti Onishi, Earl Shiraki, Richard Skizewski, and Jessica Welch.

Board Members Absent: Frank Farm.

Guests: Captain Katada (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Lowell (Honolulu Police Department); Dominic Dias (Board of Water Supply); Councilmember Ann Kobayashi; Eduardo Manglallan (Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative); Catherine Colon (Governor David Ige's Representative); House Representative Calvin Say; Senator Les Ihara Jr.; Whitney, Shaun, Victoria Anderson, Philip Tom, Ashley Noji, Corey, Bill Chismar, Sharon Young, Valery, Dave Watase (Residents); Thomas Baldwin (Neighborhood Assistant).

CITY MONTHLY REPORTS

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

June 2019 Statistics - There was 1 structure fire, 1 activated alarm, 32 medical emergencies, 1 motor vehicles crash, and 1 mountain rescue.

Safety Tip: Grilling Safety - A list of grilling safety tips was provided.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) - Lieutenant Lowell and Sergeant Jacobs reported the following:

June 2019 Statistics - There were 7 motor vehicle thefts, 10 burglaries, 16 thefts, and 7 unauthorized entries into motor vehicles (UEMV).

Safety Tip: Pedestrian Safety - A list of pedestrian safety tips was provided.

Meet the Major - The Meet the Major event is scheduled for Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. at Aina Haina Elementary School.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Armed Robbery - Albritton requested information regarding a recent armed robbery. Lieutenant Lowell stated that he lacked detailed information as the incident is an active investigation.

2. Bicycle Robbery - Shiraki requested information regarding a recent bicycle robbery. Lieutenant Lowell responded that he was unaware of the incident.

3. Mopeds - Shiraki recommended stopping and questioning all moped riders to determine the culprit of a recent moped robbery. Lieutenant Lowell and Sergeant Jacobs clarified that the HPD cannot stop or pull-over people unless it is warranted.

4. Looking Both Ways - Shiraki recommended teaching children to look both ways before crossing roadways. Lieutenant Lowell responded that safety tips are taught to children. Shiraki recommended looking for volunteers to increase outreach and education.

5. Robberies - Resident Whitney reported an altercation when someone broke into her home and inquired about ways to decrease robberies. Lieutenant Lowell responded that officers have been dedicated specifically to the robbery issue, which reduced burglaries between May and June 2019. Lieutenant Lowell recommended starting a neighborhood security watch. Chair Pro Tem Hack recommended networking through www.nextdoor.com. Resident Shaun inquired and Lieutenant Lowell confirmed that HPD presence has increased in the Board area to address the robberies. A resident inquired and Lieutenant Lowell confirmed that perpetrators have been caught and incarcerated.

Board of Water Supply - Dominic Dias reported the following:

Main Breaks - No main breaks in June 2019.

Scheduled Water Rate Increase in Effect - The new water rate schedule went into effect on Monday, July 1, 2019. Notable changes include gradual increases to the water rates, monthly billing charge being moved to a customer charge based on meter size, a new lower "essential needs" tier, and monthly standby charge for fire protection meters. Additional information is available online at www.boardofwatersupply.com or by calling the BWS Communications Office at 808-748-5041.

31st Annual Halawa Xeriscape Garden Open House and Unthirsty Plant Sale - The 31st Annual Halawa Xeriscape Garden Open House and Unthirsty Plant Sale is scheduled for Saturday, August 3, 2019 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The event features a wide variety of plants at moderate prices, Xeriscape workshops, keiki activities, educational booths, and more. Attendees will learn how to conserve water through water-efficient landscaping. Admission is free and proceeds support educational programs and classes at the Halawa Xeriscape Garden. Street parking is available with complimentary shuttle services to and from the event. Additional information is available online atwww.boardofwatersupply.com.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Water Rate Increase - Shiraki inquired about the reason for the new rate structure and rate increases. Dias responded that the new structure uses four (4) tiers and some tiers now have lower water rates. Dias stated that the average water consumer will experience minor increases and funds will be used to fix main breaks.

2. Main Break - Shiraki inquired about a recent water main break on Ninth Avenue. Dias responded that he was unaware and would need to investigate.

3. Waiomao Road- A resident inquired about water leaking through asphalt on Waiomao Road. Dias responded that he was unsure, however BWS is monitoring the situation and agreed to investigate further.

BOARD ORGANIZATION

Chair - Chair Pro Tem Hack opened nominations for the position of Chair of the Palolo Neighborhood Board No. 6.

Shiraki nominated Hack for Chair. Hack WAS APPOINTED to the position of Chair by UNANIMOUS VOTE, 10-0-0; (AYE: Albritton, Arriola, Frost, Hack, Mau, Nakayama, Onishi, Shiraki, Skizewski, and Welch; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

Vice Chair - Chair Hack opened nominations for the position of Vice Chair of the Palolo Neighborhood Board No. 6.

Shiraki nominated Mau for Vice Chair. Mau WAS APPOINTED to the position of Vice Chair by UNANIMOUS VOTE, 10-0-0; (AYE: Albritton, Arriola, Frost, Hack, Mau, Nakayama, Onishi, Shiraki, Skizewski, and Welch; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

Secretary - Chair Hack opened nominations for the position of Secretary of the Palolo Neighborhood Board No. 6.

Shiraki nominated Nakayama for Secretary. Nakayama WAS APPOINTED to the position of Secretary by UNANIMOUS VOTE, 10-0-0; (AYE: Albritton, Arriola, Frost, Hack, Mau, Nakayama, Onishi, Shiraki, Skizewski, and Welch; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

Treasurer - Chair Hack opened nominations for the position of Treasurer of the Palolo Neighborhood Board No. 6.

Shiraki nominated Welch for Treasurer. Welch WAS APPOINTED to the position of Treasurer by UNANIMOUS VOTE, 10-0-0; (AYE: Albritton, Arriola, Frost, Hack, Mau, Nakayama, Onishi, Shiraki, Skizewski, and Welch; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

Sergeant At Arms - Chair Hack opened nominations for the position of Sergeant At Arms of the Palolo Neighborhood Board No. 6.

Chair Hack nominated Shiraki for Sergeant At Arms. Shiraki WAS APPOINTED to the position of Sergeant At Arms by UNANIMOUS VOTE, 10-0-0; (AYE: Albritton, Arriola, Frost, Hack, Mau, Nakayama, Onishi, Shiraki, Skizewski, and Welch; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

BOARD MEETING DATE, TIME, LOCATION FOR FISCAL YEAR 2020

Chair Hack informed the assembly that the Palolo Neighborhood Board No. 6's previous meeting date, time, location was the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at Palolo Elementary School.

Chair Hack moved and Mau seconded the Motion to meet on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at Palolo Elementary School. The Motion WAS ADOPTED by UNANIMOUS VOTE, 10-0-0; (AYE: Albritton, Arriola, Frost, Hack, Mau, Nakayama, Onishi, Shiraki, Skizewski, and Welch; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

DETERMINATION OF BOARD RECESS SCHEDULE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2020

Chair Hack informed the assembly that the Neighborhood Plan requires Boards meet at least nine (9) times per fiscal year. Chair Hack provided a proposed recess schedule of September 2019, January 2020, and June 2020.

Mau moved and Shiraki seconded the Motion to recess in September 2019, January 2020, and June 2020. The Motion WAS ADOPTED by UNANIMOUS VOTE, 10-0-0; (AYE: Albritton, Arriola, Frost, Hack, Mau, Nakayama, Onishi, Shiraki, Skizewski, and Welch; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

Chair Hack Called a recess to swear in another Board member. The meeting resumed after the member was sworn in.

ADOPTION OF ORAL TESTIMONY AND PRESENTATION TIME ALLOTMENT GUIDELINES

Chair Hack informed the assembly that the Board currently allows three (3) minutes for oral testimony and 10 minutes for presentations, however this may change at the Chair's discretion when deemed necessary.

REQUEST TO PARTICIPATE IN THE OLELO BROADCAST SCHEDULE, OR TO REQUEST FUNDS FOR AN ANNUAL NEWSLETTER

Chair Hack opened the floor to discussion and action.

Mau moved and Shiraki seconded the Motion to participate in the Olelo Broadcast. The Motion WAS ADOPTED by UNANIMOUS VOTE, 10-0-0; (AYE: Albritton, Arriola, Frost, Hack, Mau, Nakayama, Onishi, Shiraki, Skizewski, and Welch; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

ELECTED OFFICIALS

Councilmember Ann Kobayashi - Councilmember Kobayashi reported the following:

Ala Wai Resolution - The Council passed a resolution asking Mayor Caldwell to delay signing agreement on the Ala Wai Project until alternatives are examined and considered.

Bulky Item Pickup - Numerous complaints have been received regarding the bulky item pickup pilot project.

Short Term Rentals - Starting Thursday, August 1, 2019 short term rentals cannot be advertised without permits. This is intended to address monster home issues. Long term rentals are allowed and encouraged.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Short Term Rentals - Frost inquired if the bill regarding short term rentals opened permitting for additional rentals. Councilmember Kobayashi responded that the permitting process needs to be formed first which will not begin until 2020. Mau inquired and Councilmember Kobayashi clarified there will be no new permits until permitting rules are formed, which is not anticipated until August 2020. Onishi inquired and Councilmember Kobayashi responded that the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) would be responsible for enforcement. Onishi inquired if specific DPP personnel have been assigned for enforcement and Councilmember Kobayashi agreed to investigate. Albritton inquired about taxing rentals and Councilmember Kobayashi responded that short term rental property taxes may increase.

2. Top Golf - Shiraki inquired and Councilmember Kobayashi responded that she lacked new information regarding Top Golf at the Ala Wai.

3. Bulky Item Pickup - Shiraki voiced concerns regarding new bulky item pickup methods and Councilmember Kobayashi responded that the new methods are a pilot project. Mau inquired and Councilmember Kobayashi responded that items need to be designated when appointments are made. Onishi inquired and Councilmember Kobayashi clarified that prior to the pilot program collection trucks would roam every street for bulky items, which was ineffective.

4. Speed Bump - Resident Victoria Anderson requested a speed bump be installed on L Road. Councilmember Kobayashi requested additional information so she could investigate further.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative - Eduardo Manglallan, Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) Deputy Director, reported the following:

Waialae Avenue Blend Line - Regarding previous requests for a blend line on Waialae Avenue when turning left onto Palolo Avenue. The Department of Transportation Services (DTS) responded that they will perform an investigation and take appropriate action as warranted by their analysis.

Waiomao Road - Regarding inquires about Waiomao Road and work on the Road. The Department of Design and Construction (DDC) responded that previous work near 2293 Waiomao Road included roadway and sidewalk repairs/resurfacing/crack sealing, including pavement striping and markers, and signage. Recent roadway, sinkhole, and drain line repairs have also been made near 2340 Waiomao Road. Waiomao Road is periodically inspected and repairs are performed as necessary.

Phase II Work by Kuahea Place - Regarding previous inquires about the Phase II work for the City owned parcel next to Kuahea Place, specifically about the retaining wall. The DDC responded that upcoming work on Kuahea Street includes improvements to stabilize the City's infrastructure along Kuahea Street between Kuahea Place and Helo Place. The work includes the installation of tiebacks as part of a tieback anchoring system. The tiebacks will be installed within the City right-of-way and within the City-acquired properties. The work is currently under design. Proposed work within the 2331 property, which the Kuahea Place wall is located on, is still under design.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Left Turn into Palolo - Shiraki voiced safety concerns regarding vehicles making left turns from Waialae Avenue onto Palolo Avenue.

2. Massive Piles - Resident Phillip Tom requested an update regarding "massive piles."

3. Retaining Wall - Resident Ashley Noji inquired if the retaining wall on Kuahea Street will be rebuilt. Deputy Director Manglallan responded that the retaining wall is under design clarified that the term "tieback" refers to the retaining wall.

Governor David Ige's Representative - Catherine Awakuni-Colon, Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) Director, reported the following:

Electric Vehicles - There will be an increase in electric vehicle charging stations.

Libraries - Hawaii Public Library System has redesigned their website at www.librarieshawaii.org. The website offers a full collection of physical and digital resources.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed: Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) - Chair Hack inquired about TMT construction requiring a bond to progress. Director Colon responded that she was unsure and agreed to investigate.

House Speaker Emeritus (HSE) Calvin Say - HSE Say reported the following:

No Special Session - A Special Session to override the Governor's vetoes will not be held.

Ala Wai Flood Project - The Palolo Valley Basin may be cut from the Ala Wai Flood Project. HSE Say sent a letter to the Congressional Delegation asking for reforestation as part of the Project's plan.

Wall - A family on Kuahea Place contacted HSE Say to request help as they were cited for their rock wall which shifted due to circumstances they are not responsible for. HSE Say requested that the violation be deferred.

Coqui Frogs - Coqui frogs are present in Palolo, the Department of Health (DOH) is addressing the issue.

HPD - HSE Say commended the HPD's work and stated that HPD personnel may not be able to provide information at Board meetings as the meeting is recorded.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Kuahea - Onishi inquired about the rock wall's depth and HSE Say responded that he was unsure. Onishi inquired and HSE Say responded that the rock wall was cited due to health and safety concerns. Onishi inquired and HSE Say responded that consequences from the violation would be determined by the DPP. Resident Corey stated he resides next to the family and voiced opposition to their citation. Resident Corey voiced concerns regarding land shifting and collapsed infrastructure on Kuahea and its impact to residents. Onishi inquired how the Board can assist the family and HSE Say recommended contacting the DPP to ask them to rescind the citation. Chair Hack recommended Onishi draft a letter for Board consideration. Shiraki requested that a stairway be constructed to assist residents on Kuahea Place. Onishi inquired if the USACE can address issues on Kuahea. Resident Bill Chismar voiced opposition to the City taking action against individuals when problems are caused by uncontrollable land movement.

2. Feral Chickens - Resident Sharon Young requested an update regarding feral chickens in Palolo Valley. Resident Young voiced concerns regarding chickens creating unsanitary conditions and health concerns.

3. Sanctuary City - Resident Valery voiced opposition to making Honolulu a sanctuary city.

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

No Special Session - There will not be a Special Session to override Governor Ige's vetoes. Senator Ihara provided information regarding previous Governors, how many bills they vetoed, and how many vetoes were overrode.

Court Judges - The Senate will convene a few times throughout 2019 to approve of circuit court and district court judges.

TMT - The Attorney General stated a complaint was received regarding the TMT requiring a bond to progress. The complaint will be considered, however it may not impede the TMT construction.

Kuahea - Regarding Kuahea and the citation against the family, Senator Ihara recommended that the Board pass a resolution asking the City to put a moratorium on enforcement of the citation until the cause of the wall shifting is determined. Senator Ihara recommended the Board also consider setting up a Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) to investigate the issue further.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1. Sanctuary City - Shiraki stated that he and his friends are against sanctuary cities.

2. Real Estate Investment Trusts - Albritton voiced concerns regarding real estate investment trusts being formed to avoid taxes. Albritton inquired if the issue will be addressed in future Legislative Sessions. Senator Ihara responded that the primary issue with the current approach is double taxation.

ALA WAI FLOOD MITIGATION PROJECT

Letters to Mayor and Governor - Chair Hack reported that two (2) draft letters were available for Board action, one (1) to the Governor and one (1) to the Mayor. Resident Dave Watase voiced opposition to the Ala Wai Flood Mitigation Project and provided an update. Resident Watase reported that the Manoa Neighborhood Board No. 7 passed nearly identical letters and other Neighborhood Boards will be requested to pass similar letters. Resident Watase clarified that the letter to the Mayor requests that he not sign the project partnership agreements. Resident Watase clarified that the letter to the Governor voices concerns regarding the project's Environmental Impact Statement.

Onishi moved and Albritton seconded the Motion to approve the letters. The Motion WAS ADOPTED by UNANIMOUS VOTE, 10-0-0; (AYE: Albritton, Arriola, Frost, Hack, Mau, Nakayama, Onishi, Shiraki, Skizewski, and Welch; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

BOARD VACANCIES

There were no volunteers or nominations.

RESIDENTS/COMMUNITY CONCERNS

No concerns were raised.

REPORTS OF BOARD MEMBERS ATTENDENCE AT CITY MEETINGS

Frost - Frost reported that the Ala Wai Flood Mitigation Project PIG met earlier in the day with DDC Director Robert Kroning. Frost reported the DDC intends to move forward with the project, however a start date has not been set.

BOARD BUSINESS

Approval of Minutes of the June 2019 Meeting - Welch moved and Mau seconded the Motion to approve the June 2019 Minutes with corrections. The Motion WAS ADOPTED by UNANIMOUS VOTE, 10-0-0; (AYE: Albritton, Arriola, Frost, Hack, Mau, Nakayama, Onishi, Shiraki, Skizewski, and Welch; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

Corrections: Shiraki stated that he is against making Honolulu a Sanctuary City.

Treasurer Report - Welch provided the Treasurer Report.

ADJOURNMENT - The meeting adjourned at 8:53 p.m.

Submitted by: Jackson Coley, Public Relations

Reviewed by: Harry Cho, Public Relations

Finalized by: Randolph Hack, Chair

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