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Diamond Head Neighborhood Board Meeting AUGUST 2023 Minutes
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NEXT MEETING - Click here to read next meeting agenda scheduled for 9/14/2023.

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

DIAMOND HEAD - KAPAHULU - SAINT LOUIS HEIGHTS NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 5

August 2023 Minutes

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD

THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2023 at 6:00 P.M.

ALA WAI GOLF COURSE CLUB HOUSE, SECOND FLOOR - 404 KAPAHULU AVENUE, HONOLULU, HI 96815

AND VIA WEBEX TELECONFERENCING

Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJAIvzceZYk

Reports & other meeting materials can be found at:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1WKnOJqdvqoRuGhJ7E9rg5u7AtruuZZZn

I. CALL TO ORDER - [0:00:01]: 6:01 p.m.

Chair Welch called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Quorum was NOT established with seven (7) members present. Note - This 15-member Board requires eight (8) members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action. Board members must be in-person or have video access.

Board Members Present: Julia Allen, David Beutel, Dan Decker, Angie Knight, Arleen Velasco, Winston Welch, Dylan Whitsell, Michelle Matson (6:03 p.m.), Bruce Wong (6:03 p.m.), Wendell Murakawa (appointed at 6:05 p.m.), Margaret Murchie (6:08 p.m.), and Linda Wong (6:58 p.m.).

Board Members Absent: Rafia Hasina.

Guests: Firefighter Shannon Wise (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Dason Toma, Lieutenant Taro Nakamura, Sergeant Garrett Hung (Honolulu Police Department); Kathleen Elliott-Pahinui (Board of Water Supply); Dean Carol Hoshiko (Kapiolani Community College); Director Anton Krucky (Mayor Rick Blangiardi's Representative - Department of Community Services); Director Roger Morton (Department of Transportation Services); Council Chair Tommy Waters, Amanda Zepeda; Councilmember Calvin Say, Janel Denny, Melvia Kawashima; Representative Bertrand Kobayashi; Representative Jackson Sayama; Theresa Ng (Senator Stanley Chang); Senator Les Ihara Jr.; Berna Senelly, Liz Stitzelma, Jason Lee, Om Das (Oceanit); Brandon Shima (University of Hawai i at M noa); Sarah Harris (Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency); Krista Wunsche, Nestor Garcia (Congressman Ed Case); Chris Deuchar (Form Partners); Stanton Ching, Daisy Murai, Joannie Dobbs, Kendric Wong, Marilyn Mick, Sunny Rosario, Stefanie Sakamoto, Noela Von Wiegandt (Residents); Dylan Buck (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible. There were 51 total participants.

II. FILLING OF BOARD VACANCIES - [0:01:31]

Matson joined the meeting at 6:03 p.m.; eight (8) members present. Quorum was established.

B. Wong joined the meeting at 6:03 p.m.; nine (9) member present.

Kapahulu Sub-District 2 - One (1) Seat [0:03:22]: Wendell Murakawa volunteered to fill the vacancy. [0:04:01] - Welch nominated Murakawa to fill the Sub-District 2 vacancy. Hearing no other volunteers or nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. Murakawa was appointed to fill the Sub-District 2 vacancy; 8-1 (Murakawa: Allen, Beutel, Decker, Knight, Velasco, Whitsell, B. Wong, Welch; Abstain: Matson) - [0:04:22].

Diamond Head Sub-District 3 - Two (2) Seats [0:05:30]: No volunteers at this time.

Chair Welch called a brief recess at 6:05 p.m. for Murakawa to be administered the Oath of Office.

Chair Welch called the meeting back to order at 6:08 p.m.; 10 members present.

III. OFFICER ELECTIONS - [0:07:19]

Murchie joined the meeting at 6:08 p.m.; 11 members present.

Secretary - [0:07:23]: [0:07:28] - Matson nominated Hasina for Secretary. [0:07:40] - Whitsell nominated Beutel for Secretary. Hearing no other nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. As neither nominee received a quorum vote, this item will be added to the next agenda; 3-6-1 (Hasina: Matson, Welch, Murakawa; Beutel: Allen, Beutel, Knight, Velasco, Whitsell, B. Wong; Abstain: Decker) - [0:08:12].

IV. PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS - [0:10:09]

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) - [0:10:22]: Firefighter Wise reported the following:

July 2023 Statistics: There were two (2) structure fires, four (4) activated alarms without fire, 74 medical emergencies, one (1) motor vehicle collision with pedestrian, two (2) motor vehicle collisions, one (1) mountain rescue, and one (1) hazardous materials incident.

A copy of the report and safety tips can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jNo21oaH1Db8JzVZt6NiNeiYX-4xIIWy/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed - [0:12:05].

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) District 6 - [0:16:44]: Lieutenant Toma reported the following:

July 2023 Statistics: There were two (2) robberies, seven (7) burglaries, 182 thefts, nine (9) unauthorized entry into motor vehicle (UEMV's), 48 assaults, four (4) sex crimes, 21 bike/skate on sidewalk citations, 26 speeding citations, 2,333 parking citations, 29 loud mufflers citations, 114 park closures citations, nine (9) park closure arrests, and 5,427 total calls for service. More information can be found at: https://www.honolulupd.org/information/crime-mapping/

Questions, comments, and concerns followed - [0:17:56].

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) District 7 - [0:18:43]: Lieutenant Nakamura reported the following:

July 2023 Statistics: There were four (4) motor vehicle thefts, four (4) burglaries, 20 thefts, three (3) unauthorized entry into motor vehicle (UEMV's), and 6,225 total calls for service. More information can be found at: https://www.honolulupd.org/information/crime-mapping/

Questions, comments, and concerns followed - [0:20:20].

V. BWS, KCC, & PUBLIC EVENTS NOTICES/ANNOUNCEMENTS - [0:34:53]

Board of Water Supply (BWS) - [0:34:57]: Public Information Officer Elliott-Pahinui provided the report, which can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nO-mbBWO3yamhQEW_FyLwYvt7Hx-eE52/view?usp=drive_link. Elliott-Pahinui announced that the Diamond Head Water System Improvement Part III construction project anticipated start date is January 2024, and provided updates on the Diamond Head Fencing project. More information can be found at: www.boardofwatersupply.com

Questions, comments, and concerns followed - [0:37:04].

Kapiolani Community College (KCC) - [0:46:53]: Dean Hoshiko presented images regarding construction updates for the new Culinary Institute of the Pacific (CIP) restaurant and auditorium, which can be found at: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1mxlSpNoiOXf5u5vn8tNjEKpoJHaZ4jPZ/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=112972764551395013814&rtpof=true&sd=true. The CIP has another quarterly townhall construction update scheduled in October 2023, before opening the campus in January 2024.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed - [0:49:49].

Public Events Announcements - [0:54:01]: No discussion.

VI. COMMUNITY CONCERNS & OPEN PUBLIC TESTIMONY - [0:54:21]

Long-Term Disaster Recovery and Post-Disaster Mitigation Plan Notice and Survey - [0:55:35]: Sarah Harris (Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency - CCSR) announced that the CCSR is asking for community input as they work to develop a Long-Term Disaster Recovery and Post-Disaster Mitigation Plan. The survey closes on Monday, September 4, 2023.

• Plan Link: www.resilientoahu.org/disasterrecovery

• Survey Link: www.surveymonkey.com/r/Longterm_disaster_recovery_plan

Diamond Head Road Safety Concerns - [0:57:23]: K. Wong commented that the benefits of traffic calming measures outweigh the costs, and is hopeful that the City will recognize the community demand for the implementation of traffic calming measures along the popular Diamond Head Road. L. Wong commented that she believes the problem stems from intoxicated drivers and is concerned that implanting speed humps could lead to additional safety concerns. Velasco commented that another safety concern along Diamond Head Road is with tour buses entering and exiting the lookouts, noting that she's witnessed many near-miss collisions with pedestrians, and suggested that a sidewalk be installed along the lookouts to protect pedestrians.

In-Person Meeting Set Up - [1:03:20]: Matson raised concerns with the existing layout of the in-person meeting location for these Neighborhood Board meetings and is opposed to the Board sitting on the stage as it creates a disconnect between the community and the Board. Whitsell commented that the reason for the alternative layout was due to an issue with the lighting, and for those who took the time to show up to these meetings in-person would know that the issue has been resolved and the Board will return to the original layout at the next meeting. Chair Welch commented that as long as the virtual component is an option, many participants (including members) prefer joining virtually from the comfort of their own homes.

Tree Removal in the Diamond Head Special District - [1:05:56]: Dobbs wanted to know which department, and who she can speak with, in regards to permitting for the removal of two (2) trees adjacent to her condo within the Diamond Head Special District (DHSD). Two (2) trees are to be removed, one for safety reasons and the other is cracking the foundation of the building. Council Chair Waters asked and Dobbs responded that ROH 21.9 requires that certain tree removals require permits and must be replaced. L. Wong commented that the DHSD trees must be replaced/replanted if they can be seen from any roadway and have a diameter of six (6) inches, and more information can be found at the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP).

Congressman Case's Representative - [1:08:39]: Krista Wunsche provided Congressman Case's report, which can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nG-CZQ_BmNVX8nALI_VoIjD3aNKD5ZmR/view?usp=drive_link. Wunsche highlighted upcoming deadlines regarding the Congressional App Challenge, applications to Service Academies, internship opportunities with Congressman Case's office, FEMA federal assistance for victims of the Maui wildfires, and updates to the FAA regulations. Matson asked and Wunsche responded that she will get an online form to her in regards to public testimony on the FAA regulations with Tour Helicopters. Hoshiko asked and Wunsche responded that the Congressional App Challenge is only open to high school students.

Pahoa Ridge Development - Town Hall Announcement - [1:13:41]: Chris Deuchar (Form Partners) announced that Form Partners is hosting a Town Hall meeting on the Pahoa Ridge Apartments project on Wednesday, August 30, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the St. Louis Alumni Association Clubhouse. The Pahoa Ridge Development site is 2779 Waialae Avenue, and more information can be found at: www.pahoaridge.com. Several questions, comments, and concerns were raised and Deuchar encouraged everyone to attend the Town Hall meeting to learn more.

VII. STATE & CITY GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION REPORTS - [1:25:41]

Governor's Representative - [1:25:44]: No representative present. A report was submitted, which can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z4MhmIKY2lFKBFiR-zRA0N5vqMacbMJN/view?usp=drive_link

State Department of Transportation (DOT) - [1:26:03]: No representative present.

Mayor Rick Blangiardi's Office - [1:27:03]: Director Krucky (DCS) provided the report, which can be found at: https://www.oneoahu.org/newsletter. Director Krucky highlighted the following: the City entered into an agreement with Matt Levi Security to provide a specialized security team to enhance our public safety efforts along Kuhio Beach; key additions to the City's cabinet leadership team; Skyline's first month ridership; affordable housing in Honolulu; and the Rental and Utility Relief Program (RURP). Director Krucky also reported follow-up responses to questions raised at the previous meeting.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed - [1:36:24].

City Department of Transportation Services (DTS) - [1:55:38]: Director Morton (DTS) reported that DTS and State DOT will be replacing all of the traffic signal controllers throughout the island with state-of-the-art models over the next several years, DTS was awarded $25 million of federal funding for the Ala Pono Bridge project, DTS is implimenting additional vehicles and improvmenets to the Handi-Van system, and the DOE offered all high school students on O ahu the opportunity to receive free bus passes. Director Morton also responded to concerns raised about Waikiki block parties, Residential Restricted Parking Zones (RPZ), and the safety of Diamond Head Road.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed - [2:01:56].

VIII. ELECTED OFFICIALS - [2:05:54]

Representative Bertrand Kobayashi - [2:05:56]: Representative Kobayashi provided his report, which can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j36U0aJgbyMFmCc8qtTCcnHw8Q6f1h7c/view?usp=drive_link. Representative Kobayashi highlighted that the State is focusing on the Maui wildfires disaster, and the House will majority caucus tomorrow to determine which committee will be the lead committee on wildfires.

Representative Jackson Sayama - [2:07:48]: Representative Sayama reported that the 2023 Sister Summit for Hawai i and Japan was well attented by State and City officials and very successful in building future relationships and business oppourtunites between our communities. Representative Sayama also announced that the previously planned September 2023 town hall meeting regarding a possible disc golf course at Wa ahila Ridge State Recreation Area will be rescheduled to another date, most likely in October 2023.

Senator Stanley Chang - [2:09:50]: Theresa Ng provided the report, which can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xuyv8RkVh-2bgXwu9kOy-zart7wUyTZm/view?usp=drive_link. Ng highlighted that Governor Green signed Senate Bill 1254 relating to the Kaiwi Coast, $4 million in Capital Improvement Project (CIP) funding was appropriated for rockfall and flood mitigation at the Diamond Head State Moneument, and the Senate will be convening in special session on Monday,August 21, 2023 and Tuesday, August 22, 2023 to confirm judges.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed - [2:11:09].

Senator Les Ihara, Jr. - [2:12:14]: No representative available at this time.

Council Chair Tommy Waters - [2:12:24]: Council Chair Waters provided his report, which can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/129sdA_WuvMqck6B7z2eD3fN8FMKOrQPp/view?usp=drive_link. Council Chair Waters highlighted the following topics from the last City Council Meeting: stream maintenacne is a priortiy for newly appointed DFM Director Gene Albano, Bill 44 relating to false statements, Bill 6 relating to professional self-certification, Resolution 23-162 relating to the establishement of a Climate Resilinecy Fund, Bill 46 realting to flavored tobacco products, Resolution 23-160 relating to the Hale M ili ili Affordable Rental project, and Resol 23-168 urging the establishment of a Kapa a Quarry Transfer Station Reusable Material Collection Site Pilot project.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed - [2:17:13].

Councilmember Calvin Say - [2:27:24]: Councilmember Say provided his report, which can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GjFeOR_2_D0rClVAgZwQZ-DoGoMc93KC/view?usp=drive_link. Councilmember Say also responded to concerns raised regarding Property Tax Assessments, illegal construction at 2505 Saul Place, and the Primary Urban Center Development Plan.

IX. PRESENTATIONS - [2:31:48]

Waikiki Aquarium Water Intake System Pre-Consultation - [2:31:50]: Berna Senelly [bsenelly@oceanit.com] (Oceanit) and Brandon Shima (University of Hawai i at M noa - UHM) presented information of Oceanit's and UH M noa's plans to upgrade the Waik k Aquarium s Water Intake System. A copy of the presentation can be found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1FGCXo8-VQfS2nzQdyW5L_PbTGQceggxb?usp=drive_link. Senelly announced that since Oceanit last presented to this Neighborhood Board on the Water Discharge System upgrade, that project is progressing well as the Final Environmental Assessment was approved and UHM has begun the process for soliciting construction bids. Shima highlighted that the only element of construction that is located outside of the Aquarium are two (2) existing 8-inch concrete seawater intake pipes. Construction start date is expected in mid to late 2026, and construction completion date is expected in mid-2028.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed - [2:38:26].

Governor's Emergency Proclamation on Housing - Major Community Concerns - [2:42:44]: Wayne Tanaka [wayne.tanaka@sierraclub.org] (Sierra Club of Hawai i) presented on the top five (5) implications and concerns the Sierra Club of Hawai i has with Governor Green s Emergency Proclomation on Housing. A copy of the presentation can be found at: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1hw7Diy8dd-KjA6cQraFyG3vKYaqmebQl/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=112972764551395013814&rtpof=true&sd=true. Tanaka highlighted that the top five (5) implications and concerns are: (1) Constitutional Trangressions; (2) Suspension of Sunshine Law/Transparency; (3) Undermines Fiscal Accountability; (4) Erodes/Eliminates County Home Rule; (5) Safeguards and Developer Agreements Unenforceable.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed - [2:58:48].

X. COMMITTEE REPORTS

Environment: Postponed to the next meeting.

Parks & Recreation: Postponed to the next meeting.

Planning & Zoning: Postponed to the next meeting.

Traffic & Public Safety: Postponed to the next meeting.

XI. REPORT OF BOARD MEMBERS ATTENDING OTHER BOARD MEETINGS: Postponed to the next meeting.

XII. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Regular Meeting Minutes - Thursday, February 9, 2023; Thursday, March 9, 2023; Thursday, April 13, 2023; Thursday, May 18, 2023; Thursday, June 8, 2023; Thursday, July 13, 2023: Postponed to the next meeting.

XIII. ANNOUNCEMENTS

Next Meeting: The next Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No.05 regular meeting is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 7, 2023 at the Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse and virtually via Webex.

XIV. ADJOURNMENT - [3:01:18]: The meeting was adjourned at 9:02 p.m.

Submitted by: Dylan Buck, Neighborhood Assistant

Reviewed by: Naomi Hanohano, Community Relations Specialist

Finalized by:

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Diamond Head Neighborhood Board Meeting AUGUST 2023 Minutes

DIAMOND HEAD - KAPAHULU - SAINT LOUIS HEIGHTS NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 5

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