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Wahiawa-Whitmore Village Neighborhood Board

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

MONDAY, MARCH 17, 2008

WAHIAWA RECREATION CENTER

OPENING CEREMONIES: Chair Acohido explained that at every Board meeting he opens with a moment of reflection of the past week. Following this reflection, everyone stood and recited the pledge of allegiance, and at the pleasure of the Chair everyone introduced themselves.

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Acohido called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. with a quorum of six (6) members present. Note this nine (9) member Board, requires five (5) votes to adopt a motion.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Ben Acohido, Sheri Bentley, Joe Francher, Silvia Manley Koch, Mary Jane Lee, Jyun Yamamoto.

MEMBERS ABSENT: Vee Chuensanguansat, Jeanne Ishikawa, Kathleen Masunaga.

VACANT SEAT(S): There were no vacant seats.

GUESTS: Bob Kent, Bob Goodwin (NCTAMS), Hugh Lowery, Gary S., Charlotte Baca (HPU nursing student), Ellen B. Hyer, Fran Weibenga (Wahiawa United Methodist Church), Bob Lormand, Gordon Kanemaru, Bill Putre (WCBA), Tracy Kubota (Representative Marcus Oshiro’s office), Daniel Neyer, Keanu Young (Councilmember Dela Cruz’s office), Tom Matapua, Eugene Lee (Mayor’s Representative), Dean Harvest & Leland S.M. Ribac (Neighborhood Commission Office staff).

APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, 2008: Chair Acohido moved and Francher seconded to approve the regular meeting minutes for February 25, 2008 with the following corrections:

• Entire Document: Due to an incorrect spelling of a Board members last name, replace “Frencher” with “Francher”. (Board member Joe Francher).
• Page 1: Guests: Addition of “Bob Kent.”
• Page 2: U.S. Army Schofield Barracks: Questions third bullet: Addition of “community affairs” following “Stryker Brigade.”
• Page 2: U.S. Navy NCTAMS PAC: Addition of, “A community member congratulated the Navy for successfully shooting down the damaged satellite.”

The motion to approve the regular meeting minutes for February 25, 2008 was ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY, 6-0-0, (Aye: Acohido, Bentley, Francher, Koch, Lee, Yamamoto).

APPROVAL OF TREASURER’S REPORT: Bentley read the treasurer’s report for February, highlighting a current expense of $26.73 due to printing and postage, with an ending balance of $1,146.99. With no objections the treasurer’s report was filed.

DEFENDERS & FIRST RESPONDERS, REPORTS AND CONCERNS:

HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD): No report available at this time.

HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD): Lieutenant Ballisteros reported the following;

• Statistics for the month of February compared to January include; 10/14 burglaries, 3/12 unauthorized entrance to motor vehicles (UEMV), 26/23 thefts, and 7/10 auto thefts.
• Officers from Traffic Division conducted an impaired driver enforcement operation between February 15th through March 1st in Kalihi, Pearl City, and Wahiawa areas. Statistics for the Wahiawa area include; 16 OYUII arrests, 3 other arrests, 254 speeding and 8 excessive speeding citations.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

• Koch questioned if an increase of patrol will be performed during the spring break vacation. Ballisteros noted that officers have been informed of the break period.
• Koch also noted that a rash of graffiti locations seem to have occurred just recently. Ballisteros noted that HPD has been made aware of the recent tagging incidents, and plans to prosecute anyone responsible.
• A resident questioned why weapons are not registered. Ballisteros noted that once a weapon is registered, the Firearms Department will always keep it on record.
• A resident voiced his concerns, noting he had also brought them up last month, about speeding vehicles, refuse trucks, and school busses on Olive Avenue. Ballisteros noted the location and will follow up.
• Several Community members voiced their concerns regarding the illegal drug activity and possible gambling activity near Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) and Salvation Army near Mango Street. Residents suggested that HPD monitor the area. Chair Acohido noted that the property and building owners should and will be contacted to possibly join forces with the Neighborhood Board (NB).
• A community member questioned the purpose of the NB, noting his frustration that the NB cannot take action immediately. Chair Acohido with Francher explained the NB’s purpose, explaining that community members are the eyes and the ears and can communicate these concerns through the NB forum.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES (EMS): No report available at this time.

U.S. ARMY SCHOFIELD BARRACKS: No report available at this time.

USARPAC 2ND STRYKER BRIGADE: No report available at this time.

U.S. NAVY NCTAMS PAC: Bob Goodwin, representing the U.S. Navy reported that a naval officer of Hawaii has won the title of Sailor of the Year, along with a Junior Sailor of the Year. Both officers have received their awards on March 5th.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

• Yamamoto congratulated Goodwin for his recent promotion. Goodwin thanked Yamamoto and the Board for their continued support, and noted he plans to stay with the Board in the future.
• Chair Acohido questioned the timeline of construction dates that the Navy will perform. Goodwin replied that groundbreaking for the first structures will be in late April; invitations will be sent to Board members.

RESIDENTS’ CONCERNS: Several residents’ concerns were voiced during this time;

• A concern regarding depleted uranium and the possible connection to diabetes. The resident noted that he has already contacted Representative Marcus Oshiro.
• An opinion regarding tourism in the State of Hawaii and how Wahiawa is one of the oldest towns on Oahu.
• A concern regarding vacation rentals in Wahiawa, and asked the Board for a letter in support of Transient Vacation Units (TVU) and Bed & Breakfasts (B&B). Several community members questioned the proposed City ordinance relating to TVU’s and B&B’s. Chair Acohido acknowledged the concern and replied that it now has to be brought to the community and put on the agenda.

CHAIRPERSON’S REPORT: Chair Acohido deferred this item until the April Board meeting.

PRESENTATION: STATUS OF WAHIAWA DAM GIFT TO STATE OF HAWAII: Chair Acohido read a response provided by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) regarding Wahiawa Dam and Lake Wilson. In the response letter several questions were answered regarding Lake Wilson and the adjacent land; the list of questions was provided to each Board member. Also attached to this letter was a resolution produced by the Association of Hawaiian Civics Club. Chair Acohido noted that he will continue to keep the Board abreast with this agenda item as more information is made available.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

·         Harvest questioned if Schofield and the Military could be held responsible as part of the land falls onto their property. Chair Acohido noted that the land does not fall under the military.

·         Lau explained that DLNR has a Dam Safety Program that looks at water and land quality.

·         M.J. Lee questioned who responded for DLNR. Chair Acohido replied that it came from Director Thielen, and noted that Representative Marcus Oshiro is also working legislation at the legislature.

·         Several community members voiced their opinions about the acquisition of Lake Wilson and the Wahiawa Dam, noting that they did not want to loose the abutting land to developers.

·         Chair Acohido noted that the Board may support House Bill (HB) 2292 and HB2293 which was authored by Representative Marcus Oshiro and relate to the purchasing of the Galbraith Estate lands.

·         M.J. Lee noted her support for both measures HB2292 and HB2293 and that she has not heard of any testimony in opposition to the measures.

Francher moved and Bentley seconded that the Wahiawa Neighborhood Board support House Bill 2292 and House Bill 2293 with the purchasing and acquisition by the State of Hawaii, of the Galbraith Estate lands. The motion was ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY 6-0-0, (Aye: Acohido, Bentley, Koch, Francher, Lee, Yamamoto).

GOVERNMENT & COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS:

WCBA: A WCBA representative reported that the monthly tour of Wahiawa was held last Saturday, where an estimated 40 people toured. Councilmember Dela Cruz also accompanied the riders, and noted that the tours will continue through December, welcoming everyone to participate. It was announced that the Annual Pineapple Festival will be held on Saturday, May 10th.

MAYOR’S REPRESENTATIVE: Eugene Lee, representing the Mayor, reported the following:

• Regarding the numerous potholes on California Avenue raised during the February meeting, the Department of Transportation Services (DTS) replied the holes were patched in March 3rd, should there be any other potholes, please call 768-7777.
• DTS also indicated that traffic signals on Nanea Street and California Avenue are pending due to availability of funds. The traffic signal is scheduled for instillation in 2010, and will cost nearly $400,000.
• In regards to the residents’ concern of speeding vehicles, including City refuse trucks, on Cypress Avenue, the Wahiawa Refuse Collection Yard Superintendent has addressed all drivers about the speeding issue, warning that should any driver be caught speeding, disciplinary action will be taken.
• In regards to the sidewalk at Uuku Street and Royal Palm Drive intersection, the Department of Design Construction (DDC) has indicated that reduction of the curb may affect the capacity of the storm drain.
• In regards to Ishikawa’s concern about the Wahiawa swimming pool heater, the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) replied that the pool is not heated all year; and in December the pool was heated daily for three hours starting from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
• Regarding the sign at Wahiawa Police Station that needs to be painted, the Superintendent of the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) found nothing wrong with the sign.

Questions, comments and concerns followed;

·         Hyer questioned the follow up of her concern regarding the deceased tree on Peterson Drive. The tree is nearly 60 feet tall, dead and looming; it presents a safety hazard to residents. E. Lee will follow up.

·         M.J. Lee raised a concern regarding the storm drains on California Avenue. The drains require maintenance before heavy rains clog the drains. E. Lee will follow up.

·         Harvest raised concern that the Wahiawa swimming pool requires heat on a daily basis, noting that elderly residents utilize the pool in the early mornings. Chair Acohido will contact DPR.

COUNCILMEMBER DONOVAN DELA CRUZ: Keanu Young, for Councilmember Dela Cruz reported;

• A concern raised earlier regarding TVU’s Councilmember Dela Cruz has publicly stated he is against the measure, noting that TVU’s will increase the cost of real-estate. Dela Cruz does, however, support B&B’s with an agricultural aspect in farming areas, but not residential.
• On March 20th, the Council Bill 80, Steel on Steel measure, will be heard for second reading at 2:00 p.m.
• Leilehua High School is hosting a recycle fair on their campus on Saturday, April 12th.
• The Mayor has completed both Operating, and Capital Improvement Project (CIP) Budgets. Several CIP’s directly affect the Wahiawa community including; traffic signal optimization, traffic signals at California Avenue and Nanea Street, renovation of recreational facilities at Wahiawa District Park, bus stop access improvements on California Avenue and Lehua Street, and possibly a Wahiawa Transit Center.

Questions, comments and concerns followed;

• Harvest questioned the possibility of transit Police enforcement, noting several transit projects on the mainland that required transit officers. Young noted that this has been an issue already raised, but does not know the exact details.
• Chair Acohido reiterated the need for transit enforcement, as HPD is already understaffed and proposing either the Sheriff’s department or the Department of Transportation (DOT).
• Francher noted that the issue of transit enforcement has been raised at the Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) meetings, and will keep the Board updated.
• Chair Acohido questioned Council Resolution 07-379, noting Councilmember Charles Djou’s intent to restrict Board members to term limits. Young noted that the Council is waiting for Board member’s input.
• Yamamoto noted many Boards cannot fill their vacancies, and to remove members may be detrimental.

GOVERNOR’S REPRESENTATIVE: Larry Lau, representing the Governor’s office, reported;

• Following up on M.J. Lee’s question of exactly what “rural lifestyle” referred to; the Governor meant a “country” lifestyle, which includes a slower pace of life in an area without congestion.
• In regards to the status of funds for Mililani Library, the Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) is executing the contract; contact Wendy Woodstrup for more information.
• In regards to the question rose asking why more building structures in Kalaeloa are not being utilized; the State can provide homeless housing opportunities where resources are available. If the buildings are available please contact DAGS, Russ Saito at 586-0400.
• Regarding a question raised by a community member last month, asking what laws regulate outdoor signs and their lighting; the answer is City ordinances.
• The Governor’s monthly report has been circulated, highlighting the robotics efforts and the Governor’s initiatives for Turtle Bay Resort.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

• Francher questioned the status of sewage treatment plant permits. Lau noted that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will respond by the end of September.
• M.J. Lee questioned if there is an ongoing study of the detrimental effect of fumes in our air quality, Lau replied there is a study, which is funded by the federal government.

SENATOR ROBERT BUNDA: No report available at this time.

REPRESENTATIVE MARCUS OSHIRO: A written report was made available.

BOARD OF WATER SUPPLY: A written report was made available.

WAHIAWA SATELLITE CITY HALL: No report was made available.

OTHER AGENCIES/ORGANIZATIONS: No other organizations or agencies reported.

CORRESPONDANCE: Chair Acohido circulated the correspondence as needed.

TEN (10) MINUTE RECESS: Chair Acohido deferred this item, no recess was taken.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

FORMATION OF TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE, CHAIRED BY J. FRANCHER: Francher reported that he had not held a meeting in February, but plans to in March. Chair Acohido explained that the Transportation Committee will discuss traffic concerns and proposed improvements.

REPORT ON VISIT TO TRAINING SITE OF 3RD BRIGADE: Francher noted that he did not attend, however M.J. Lee shared that she enjoyed the visit and tour, noting she was the only Board member present. She applauded the 3rd Brigade and thanked them for their hospitality. Chair Acohido noted that these site tours are very worth while, and encourages everyone to attend the next visit.

INITIATE PROCEEDINGS FOR APPOINTMENT TO VACANT BOARD MEMBER POSITION: Chair Acohido explained that Board member Kathy Masunaga has missed three meetings within the year. Several community members have already indicated they would like to join the Board. An announcement has already been made in the Ka Nupepa. If there are any others that would like to be a part of the Board, please submit your name and address to Yamamoto.

P.I.G. REPORT OF MARCH 12, 2008 MEETING: REGARDING REGIONAL FORUM: Chair Acohido reported that he had attended the March 12th, explaining that the regional forum was established to address regional maters such as traffic, education, and construction. Chair Acohido noted several Boards were involved, and announced that the next meeting will be held in Kapolei but no date has been set.

FORMATION OF A REGIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD PERMITTED INTERACTION GROUP (PIG): Chair Acohido explained that in order for the PIG to confirm and involve the other regional PIG’s, the Board will need to adopt the proper wording by Acting Chair Kioni Dudley. As the original agenda did not include this action the Board will need to approve the revised agenda, which was previously made available. Francher moved and Bentley seconded that the Board approve the revised agenda for March 17, 2008. The motion was ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY, 6-0-0. (Aye: Acohido, Bentley, Francher, Koch, Lee, Yamamoto).

Chair Acohido then read the proper wording, noting the February 25th meeting formation of the Regional PIG was incorrect, therefore inactivating the PIG. The correct wording read; “FORMATION OF A REGIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD PERMITTED INTERACTION GROUP–The scope of the matter to be investigated by this regional Neighborhood Board interaction group is “How anticipated housing development will affect freeway traffic, and the impact this will have on the lives of people in the region.  The Regional Interaction Forum will also look at solutions and recommend positions for involved Neighborhood Boards.” Each member is authorized 1) to participate in the organizing of the regional interaction forum, and to hold any office or position, and to perform the tasks required by that office or position; 2) to help decide issues to be studied, and experts to be brought in to better educate the group about the issues--voices pro and con--governmental decision makers, affected stakeholders, and others; 3) to participate freely in all discussions, to participate in all other activities, and to vote on matters discussed in the Forum; 4) to help determine what matters will be referred to the Neighborhood Boards for their vote; and 5) to make presentations or observations to this Neighborhood Board, whether pro or con, or supporting the majority or minority opinion, Forum-approved or personal, about any matter discussed by the Regional Interaction Forum.” Francher moved and Bentley seconded to approve the formation of the Regional Neighborhood Board Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) with above explanation and wording. The motion was ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY, 6-0-0; (Aye: Acohido, Bentley, Francher, Koch, Lee, Yamamoto).

FORMATION OF P.I.G. RELATING TO “VOICES OF MEN” AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: Chair Acohido announced Voices of Men are a group against domestic violence; and will retrieve more information and report back to the Board.

NEW BUSINESS:

COUNCIL RESOLUTION 07-379; RELATING TO BOARD MEMBER TERM LIMITS: Several of the Board members note their opposition of Council Resolution 07-379. Chair Acohido noted that several of the Board members are long time members and have dedicated many hours to their community. There was general agreement to oppose Council resolution 07-379. The Board opposed Council resolution 07-379 with no objection.

OMPO/CAC PLANNING UPDATE: TRANSPORTATION CHAIR: Francher noted he will continue to attend the OMPO Citizen’s Advisory Committee (CAC), and update the Board as needed.

COLLARBORATION WITH WCBA RE: WAHIAWA BEAUTIFICATION: Chair Acohido will continue to work with Wahiawa Community Business Association (WCBA), and report back to the Board.

ANOUNCEMENTS: Chair Acohido announced that the next Neighborhood Board meeting will be held on Monday, April 21st at Helemano Elementary School at Whitmore-Village located at 1001 Ihi Ihi Avenue.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 9:41 p.m.

Submitted By:

Leland S.M. Ribac

Neighborhood Assistant