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MAKAKILO / KAPOLEI / HONOKAI HALE

NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2009

KAPOLEI HIGH SCHOOL CAFETORIUM

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Maeda Timson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a quorum of seven (7) members present. Note – This nine-member Board requires five (5) members for a quorum and to take official Board action. Chair Timson explained that attendees were expected to behave with proper order, decorum, and respect, speak relative to the subject matter, and noted the one-minute time limit to speak to agenda items.

Board Members Present – James Arthur, Kioni Dudley (arrived at 7:05 p.m.), Michael Golojuch, Brian Kanno, Suk Moses, Evelyn Souza, Maeda Timson, Linda Young.

Board Members Absent – George Yamamoto.

Vacancies – None.

Guests – Acting Captain R. Fernandez (Honolulu Fire Department); Manny Lanuevo (Mayor Mufi Hannemann's Office – City Department of Environmental Services, Deputy Director); Council Chair Todd Apo; Tracy Omori (Council Chair Todd Apo's Office); Puni Chee (Councilmember Nestor Garcia's Office); George Kuo (Board of Water Supply); Chancellor Gene Awakuni, Ryan Meilke (University of Hawaii West Oahu); Johnlyn Doi, Vice-President Djuan Rivers (Disney Vacation Club); Tesha Malama (State of Hawaii Community Development Authority – Kalaeloa); Erika Moon (Senator Mike Gabbard's Office); Elwin Spray (Representative Karen Awana's Office); Pat Kubota (State Department of Hawaiian Homelands); Ron Boyer (Governor Linda Lingle's Office – State Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Deputy Director); Carina Tagupa (Chevron); Gary K. Omori (Honolulu Rail Transit); Ivonne Cardenas (Olelo videographer – Makakilo.com); Sonya Pierce (Waianae Coast Outreach); Russell Manod (Waste Management); Eric Bolin, Melodie Bolin, Troy Cullen, Damon Duhaylonsod, Frank Genadio, Carolyn Golojuch, Michele Golojuch, George Grace, Jeanette Grace, Mel Kahele, Betty Nathaniel, Ron Schaedel, Tom Thompson, Keith Timson, Ue Tokuhara, Charles Zahn; Rachel M. Glanstein (Neighborhood Commission Office).

MONTHLY CITY REPORTS:

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – Acting Captain R. Fernandez reported the following information:

1)       March 2009 Statistics – There were 13 fires, 74 medical emergencies, and 4 major incidents. The major incidents included 3 brush fires in Makua Valley, on Kili Drive, and in Honokai Hale, and 1 structure fire on McArthur Street.

2)       Fire Safety Tip – The risk of wildland fires increases as summer approaches. Make a 30-foot wide firebreak by clearing vegetation and clutter around all structures. Have an emergency preparedness plan ready in case of emergency evacuation. Consider the need for fire department access.

Dudley arrived at 7:05 p.m.; eight (8) members present.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

Firebreaks – A firebreak of 30 feet is recommended, but it's possible that only 15 feet may be required.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – No representative or report present.

Mayor's Representative – Manny Lanuevo, the Deputy Director of the City Department of Environmental Services (ENV), circulated Mayor Mufi Hannemann's newsletter, and relayed the following information:

1)       Illegal Signs on Public Property – An inspector will be assigned to check for illegally posted signs on Makakilo Drive from Kamokila Boulevard to the top of the drive.

2)       Traffic Controls Around Haumea Street – The City Department of Transportation Services (DTS) advised about traffic controls at the James Campbell building on Haumea Street.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

Haumea Street Work – No Parking Anytime signs will be installed on Haumea Street near the U.S. Post Office. Mr. Lanuevo will follow up on work planned for the intersection of Haumea and Manawai Streets. Rumors have been heard of a potential move of the U.S. Post Office.

Council Chair Todd Apo – Tracy Omori, from Council Chair Apo's Office, distributed the report and Council Chair Apo summarized the following information:

1)       Budget Progress – The City Council passed all budget bills in second reading.

2)       Potential Property Tax Rate Increase – Mayor Hannemann's proposal, accepted at this time, was to increase property tax 30 cents per every $1,000 of value for residential properties, and the amount may need to increase another 30 cents if the Transient Accommodation Tax (TAT) is raided by the State.

3)       Using Handheld Electronics While Operating Motor Vehicles – The City Council adopted Bill 4, to ban handheld electronic devices while driving (with a few exceptions, including hands-free kits), effective July 1, 2009. Council Chair Apo noted that a cell phone may be propped on a leg, and people may text that way, which is far more dangerous than holding the phone in hand and texting.

4)       Landfill Issues – Landfill issues will be coming up before the City and State, and one of the City goals should be to move away from the landfill concept, with the expansion of H-Power assisting with the goal.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1)       Using Handheld Electronics While Operating Motor Vehicles – Motorists are supposed to pull over and turn off their engines in order to make cell phone calls from their vehicles; however, a resident voiced that this could cause traffic hazards. There is an exception when a motorist is calling 911 for an emergency, but the situation must be proven in court if a ticket is issued. HPD will enforce the ordinance. Council Chair Apo expressed his opposition to the language of the bill, given at least one loophole (holding the phone in the lap while texting, which may be more dangerous than holding a phone in the hand), and noted that the legislative process is not perfect, but the Council does what they can. Two-way radio cell phones are banned, but the commercial use of two-way radios is allowed. It's possible that Mayor Hannemann could veto the bill or the ordinance could be amended.

2)       Raiding of TAT Funds – If the legislature chooses to raid the TAT funds, then they are considering giving each County the right to levy a sales tax in exchange, but it's felt that it wouldn't be quite fair.

3)       Kamokila Boulevard Condition – Kamokila Boulevard from Safeway to the park is in very poor condition. It was requested that the City Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) expedite their approval so that Kapolei Property Development (KPD) may repair the road.

4)       Landfill Issues – Residents live near the private landfill (PVT), so Waimanalo Gulch landfill was pointed out as being slightly more acceptable. The Council was requested to consider closing PVT, and eventually clean up all island landfills. PVT is privately operated, not controlled by the City, but the goal is to not have any landfills, so other technologies and solutions are being investigated.

Councilmember Nestor Garcia – Puni Chee, from Councilmember Garcia's Office, circulated the report and specified the following information:

1)       Leeward Coast Community Benefits (LCCB) – New funding applications for the City's LCCB program are available for community-based non-profit organizations serving the Leeward area, and are due by 4:00 p.m. on June 1, 2009.

2)       Makakilo Elementary School (MES) 40th Anniversary – Appreciation was extended to Souza for her part in the upcoming celebration of the 40th anniversary of MES.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1)       Makakilo Drive Extension – The State will pay the cost to construct the last connection from Makakilo Drive to the H-1 Freeway (the extension), at approximately $60 million, but the amount may fluctuate. The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is almost complete, and the design and planning has been finished. Although Mayor Hannemann included this in the stimulus package, it wasn't shovel-ready and so couldn't be funded through that mechanism.

2)       Stimulus Funds for Adults and Children – The Workforce Investment Act provided $1.5 million for the youth and $630,000 for adults, and it was felt that more money should have been provided for adults.

3)       Nohohale Street and Makakilo Drive Intersection – There was an accident at the intersection of Nohohale Street and Makakilo Drive, and it was determined that speed was a factor; a study of the area was again requested. Mr. Chee answered that a letter from DTS was received in April indicating that a study will be done of the entire Makakilo Drive corridor; he will continue to request a copy of the previous study to look at while the new study is being completed.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – George Kuo, from the BWS, imparted the following information:

1)       March 2009 Main Break – There was one 24-inch concrete main break on March 10, on Farrington Highway; the main was originally installed in 1961.

2)       BWS Responsibilities – BWS is charged with the maintenance of mains and checking meters. Call 748-5000 for more information.

3)       Water for Kalaeloa – BWS is meeting with the State of Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) and the engineering consultant for the U.S. Navy on the possibility of providing BWS service (water) to some of the Kalaeloa area.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1)       Water Levels – There is unused groundwater in certain aquifers, but everyone is still encouraged to conserve water. There is enough water to sustain further development, an approximate 20 million gallons per day. If more water is needed, then desalinization plants will be built to provide more water. BWS is required to supply water to the island. More water studies are needed due to the cessation of sugar cane plantation water usage. Recycled water is being used wherever possible. The BWS has contingency plans projected to 2020 to cover a great deal of demand for water. The desalinization plants will be deferred until Oahu is closer to needing them.

2)       Water Source for Area – The area receives its water from the Ewa/Kunia and Waipahu/Waiawa aquifers. Once per year, residents receive Consumer Confidence Reports, denoting water quality and source. A resident was upset with the lack of response she received from BWS and requested more information in writing; Mr. Kuo noted his position with the Long Range Planning Section of BWS and will follow up.

3)       Water for Kalaeloa – In order for BWS to take over providing water to Kalaeloa, the current water system there would need to be upgraded. It's assumed that the Navy would commit their source capacity of water at Barber's Point to BWS; the Navy was requested to submit a master plan to BWS.

4)       Maintenance Programs – There is a maintenance program to exercise valves to ensure that they are in working condition. Kalaeloa has many valves that are not currently working.

PRESENTATIONS:

University of Hawaii (UH) West Oahu Progress Report – Gene Awakuni, Chancellor of UH West Oahu, conveyed the following information regarding the new location:

1)       Construction Update – The ground was blessed in January, the essential infrastructure is complete, and the State Department of Transportation (DOT) and Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) are installing the lines. Site grading will be done in two to three months. A water tank will be built to service the campus. Phase I involves 250,000 square feet in five buildings, to handle a 2,500 to 3,000 student capacity. Construction should be finished in Spring 2011. Makai of Farrington Highway is where a flag or sign will be planted to inform the community that groundbreaking is occurring.

2)       Student Body – The UH West Oahu student body has been located at the UH Leeward Community College (LCC) campus for the last 25 years, and there is not enough space. In 2005, UH West Oahu had 800 students, and 1,450 students are predicted to enroll in the Fall 2009.

3)       Support – Many of the people attending the Board meetings made arguments for a UH West Oahu campus, given that the Leeward side is underserved regarding higher education. Appreciation was expressed to everyone for their support, and three students came to extend their thanks.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1)       How to Help – Please contact the legislators to support the project, which is funded by both the general fund and the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget.

2)       Ownership – UH owns all of the land, which is fully entitled and urbanized. When the North-South Road opens, access into the property will be provided. A 55-acre parcel, located in the Transient Oriented Development (TOD) area and zoned for commercial/mixed use, will be sold, and 450 acres will most likely be kept by UH. The previous proposal was to sell 298 acres; however, it's believed that the 55 acres will be sold for a large amount of money.

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Project Update – Djuan Rivers, Vice-President of the DVC, highlighted the following information from his PowerPoint presentation:

1)       His Background – Mr. Rivers has worked for the Disney company for more than 20 years, in many different areas, so he considers working for Disney a career opportunity.

2)       Disney Background – Disney is divided into four major areas: (a) studio entertainment, consumer products, media, and parks and resorts. There are resorts located in Paris, Hong Kong, Orlando, and in California, in addition to two-stand alone time share resorts.

3)       Hybrid Resort – Disney plans to build a hybrid resort in Hawaii with a timeshare and hotel. When surveyed, people often chose Hawaii as a preferred location to build another Disney resort. Hawaii also has a strong storytelling culture, which jibes with Disney's aims. The resort will attract families with an affinity for Disney.

4)       Location – The resort will be located on approximately 22 acres of land, next to the Ihilani Resort, and will have access to marinas and lagoons.

5)       Site Plans – There are three main areas: (a) rejuvenation area; (b) center activity hub with water sports; and (c) a nature and activity lawn. There will be many areas designed for the youth. The main complex will have character breakfasts, and there will be a beach restaurant to encourage enjoyment of sunsets. Lush landscaping and themes will be implemented, and guests will be greeted upon arrival by two water ways and a welcome building.

6)       Building Plans – There will be 350 hotel rooms and 480 two-bedroom villas. An 18,000 square foot spa is planned, along with seven acres of water activities. Meeting space of 8,000 square feet will be provided.

7)       Construction Jobs – About 1,000 construction jobs will be created to build the resort.

8)       Amenities – Specifically, the amenities will include: (a) wedding lawn; (b) character dining; (c) beachside restaurant; (d) child experiences; (e) snorkel lagoon.

9)       Disney Goals – Disney plans to be active members of the community, and to that end, has already donated money to area schools.

10)   Timeline – Some construction occurred in January, along with ground work in February, which picked up speed in March. Phase 1 will open in early 2011, and Phase 2 will open at the end of the year. The final phase will be open in 2013.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1)       Location – The resort will be situated near the first lagoon, which will be shared with the Ihilani Resort.

2)       Public Access – The public will have free access to the lagoon and to wander the resort areas. The exact number of parking stalls to be provided was unknown at this time.

3)       No Theme Park – Only a resort (and not a theme park) is being planned for Hawaii at this time.

4)       Career Opportunities – Mr. Rivers clarified that he experienced adversity along the path of his work at Disney, but kept going, received higher education, and worked his way up to becoming a Vice-President.

5)       Further Updates – Further updates will be provided when available.

Kapolei Public Parks – Operating/Closing Hours – Neighborhood Assistant (NA) Rachel M. Glanstein and Golojuch distributed handouts, and Chair Timson explained that many questions and concerns have arisen regarding area parks and homelessness. She added that a representative of the City Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) was supposed to attend the meeting; however, no DPR staff was present. It was expressed that review of park closure hours may be needed, since the area parks remain open at night. Discussion followed:

1)       Current Closure Hours (If Any) – (a) Kamokila Community Park is closed form 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.; (b) Kapolei Community Park is closed from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.; (c) Makakilo Community Park is closed from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.; (d) Maukalani Neighborhood Park is closed from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.; (e) Palailai Neighborhood Park is closed from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.; (f) Barbers Point Beach Park, no closure hours; (g) Kapolei Regional Park, no closure hours; and (h) Makakilo Neighborhood Park, no closure hours. Closure hours don't prevent most of the park-users from using the park, and allow HPD to enforce the rules when necessary. The most common closure hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. Honokai Hale closed its park after hours due to drug problems.

2)       Closure Hours for Kapolei Regional Park (KRP) – Numerous community concerns were received requesting the closure hours for KRP, likely the most common closure hours of 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. No homes are located near the KRP, so some didn't see the necessity in closing that particular park; however, there the nearby Seagulls School is routinely burglarized and vandalized, and the neighboring senior facility can hear screams from the park. HPD often receives complaints about night activity at KRP.

3)       Process – If the community supports the closure and the Board votes to take action, then DPR will decide on approving the request.

4)       Effects of Closure Hours – Closure hours give HPD the ability to clear people out of the park after hours, when necessary; these closures have been implemented in a number of Leeward parks, and has appeared to help curtail illegal activities and problems. Usually HPD officers will first ask people to leave after the closure, before tickets are issued.

5)       Reasons to Close Parks After Hours – Council Chair Apo recited his opinion that in general he is opposed to closing parks, but noted the practical help of closures to the surrounding community. There was a past assault in a park bathroom, which provides a valid safety reason to close the park at night. During the soccer season at KRP, there are homeless that sleep in their cars and then complain when the kids begin their soccer practice at 8:00 a.m. Many residents are being prevented from using the park by the undesirable activities occurring, even some who had permits. Simply closing the bathrooms often means that people will use the bathroom elsewhere.

6)       Homelessness Issues – Concern was expressed for the homeless living in parks that have nowhere else to go, who are also members of the community. There are many shelters, especially in the Leeward area, but often the homeless choose not to live in the shelters, because then they would have to follow the rules. Everyone wanted to ensure that the homeless received the opportunity to go to a shelter. HPD officers are beginning to be trained in dealing with those with mental illnesses. It was suggested to send out social workers to area parks to check out the situation. Not all homeless are mentally ill, or drug-addicted, many either just lost their jobs or are considered "working homeless". Waianae Community Outreach (WCO) services all island homeless, with a preference for Leeward residents; a referral from the Waikiki Health Center is needed to go to the WCO. Also available is the Hawaii Dream, a homeless working facility in Kunia.

7)       More Parks That May Be Should Have Closure Hours – Barber's Point Beach Park has a great deal of night activity, as does the skateboard park.

8)       Future Action – More information was requested before the Board makes a decision. A Committee of the Whole (CW) meeting was suggested to allow discussion of the issue before the next Board meeting.

CHAIR'S REPORT:

Board Members' Behavior – Chair Timson reminded all Board members, despite their passions for certain issues, to respect other Board and community members not only during the meeting, but after the meeting as well. Board members may be sued individually for actions. Discussion followed:

Language – Everyone should avoid using vulgar language when speaking to each other, regardless of whether the meeting has adjourned.

Correspondence/Announcements – Chair Timson highlighted the following correspondence/information received:

1)       Meeting Broadcasts – Broadcasts of the Board meetings are now available on demand at www.olelo.org.

2)       Neighborhood Board (NB) Election – Voting in the NB election will run from May 6 to May 22, 2009, and further information will be received by mail.

3)       Ewa Development Plan (EDP) Update – D.R. Horton sent a letter regarding the Ewa Development Plan.

4)       Oahu Park Rules and Regulations – Board members were requested to review the distributed rules and regulations of Oahu parks.

5)       Hawaii Food and Wine Paradise Event – Contact Chair Timson to express any concerns or objections to the Hawaii Food and Wine Paradise event, hosted by Ko Olina.

6)       Affordable Housing for Seniors – The new senior affordable housing development, Senior Residence at Kapolei, will begin to accept applications on May 6, 2009.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Transportation – Transportation Committee Chair Golojuch conveyed the following information:

1)       Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) Meeting – At the last meeting, the initial review process of the Oahu Regional Transportation Plan (ORTP) 2035 began, and the ORTP is updated every five years. There will be many opportunities for public input.

2)       State Transportation Projects – The director of DOT will attend the next Board meeting to talk about different State transportation projects affecting the Board area.

Discussion followed:

H-1 Freeway Onramp Speed Limit Sign Missing – The 25 mile per hour (mph) speed limit sign is missing from the Makakilo Drive hairpin turn freeway onramp.

Committee of the Whole (CW) – CW Chair Souza suggested a meeting concerning the closure of three area pakrs, which could be held next month. Mr. Chee will follow up on a potential town meeting to discuss the EDP.

Planning and Zoning – No report.

COMMUNITY CONCERNS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Upcoming NB Election – Dudley encouraged everyone to vote for a new Board in the upcoming NB election and offered to withdraw his name from candidacy if everyone would vote in a new Board. Souza urged everyone to vote and vote for her re-election. Chair Timson noted the current Board votes as a major majority on most issues and thanked everyone for their hard work and time, with no pay. Moses said she is running for re-election because of her concerns of infrastructure and schools and asked for everyone's vote.

Projects with Traffic Impacts – Kanno expressed concern regarding the recent two-lane closure on the H-1 Freeway for the entire weekend; he felt that a project with such a major impact on traffic should have been discussed with the community ahead of time. The notice for the road work may not have been noticed enough, and DOT was requested to bring projects that will greatly impact traffic to the Board, and not only the media, before the projects begin.

Gay Pride Parade – Carolyn Golojuch reported the upcoming Gay Pride Parade on May 30, from Ala Moana Park to Kapiolani Park, which will be open to everyone.

Makakilo Elementary School (MES) 40th Anniversary – On April 25, MES invites everyone to come and celebrate its 40th birthday with events from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., including food and prizes. Over $3,000 in prizes were donated by the community for the event.

BOARD BUSINESS:

Approval of October 22, 2008 Regular Meeting Minutes – The October 22, 2008 regular meeting minutes were APPROVED AS CIRCULATED 7-1-0 (AYE: Arthur, Golojuch, Kanno, Moses, Souza, Timson, Young; NO: Dudley).

Approval of January 28, 2009 Regular Meeting Minutes – The January 28, 2009 regular meeting minutes were APPROVED AS CORRECTED 7-1-0 (AYE: Arthur, Golojuch, Kanno, Moses, Souza, Timson, Young; NO: Dudley), with the following correction:

*         Page 1 – Heading – first paragraph – second line – WEDNESDAY, JANUARY FEBRUARY 28, 2009.

Approval of February 25 and March 25, 2009 Regular Meeting Minutes – The previous NA took ill and was unable to complete these two sets of minutes in time for the mailout.

March 2009 Treasurer's Report – The report was mailed with the agenda. Discussion followed:

Refreshment Budget – The Board usually does not use the $120 available in the Refreshment Budget. The funds may be used for other items if necessary. It was noted that the previously free monthly article on the Board written by the Voice of Kapolei would cost $150 per article, starting in June. Some Boards use the funds to provide water for the meeting attendees. Volunteers were invited to pick up refreshments for the meeting, with Chair Timson's approval. Given the City's tight budget, it may be preferred to not spend the $120 in the Refreshment Budget.

MONTHLY STATE REPORTS:

State of Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) – Tesha Malama circulated handouts and emphasized the following points:

1)       Follow-Up from Last Month Related to Homeless Issues – Three organizations, in addition to the State, work to determine if someone is unsheltered: (a) WCO; (b) Waianae Comprehensive Health Center (WCHC); and (c) Waikiki Caravan. There are both emergency and transitional shelters. Vacancies in emergency shelters at the Pacific Center in Waianae were announced, and Kumu Honua has 70 units available, with no waiting list. Referrals are often needed, so please call Maria for more information at 626-5215. Onsite programs include life skills programs that deal with: (a) finances; (b) literacy; (c) computers ; (d) health related issues; (e) family related issues; (f) abuse prevention; (g) support groups; and (h) keiki play. Many services are provided to operations looking to open a shelter, and the operation is overseen by the State of Hawaii Public Housing Authority, who reports monthly to HCDA.

2)       Roadway Conditions – HCDA staff requested DOT change the street signage to reflect that the Kamokila Boulevard extension is open and address the potholes on Fort Barrette Road and Roosevelt Avenue. The lack of stop signs and street markings on Lexington and Saratoga Roads was reported to DTS.

3)       Shuttle Program – HCDA recently voted unanimously to support a district wide shuttle program and are in the process of fulfilling procurement requirements to partially fund the Kalaeloa shuttle program.

4)       Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and Infrastructure Development – Three projects were detailed: (a) funding for the Energy Corridor, the first infrastructure project for Kalaeloa, is still in the legislative budget; (b) the North-South Road extension through Kapolei Parkway to Roosevelt Avenue is also still in the legislative budget; and (c) HCDA is working with Hunt, Belt Collins, and the local utility agencies to address substandard infrastructure in Kalaeloa.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1)       CW Meeting Related to Park Closures – Ms. Malama was requested to help coordinate the CW meeting related to park closures (and indirectly, homeless issues).

2)       Sign Installation – DOT usually does an analysis before installing signs, which has delayed the planned landscaping maintenance project. It's hoped that the landscaping and signs will be done in mid-May, and everyone was warned to anticipate possible traffic impacts.

3)       Activity Centers – Kamaaina Kids, a child development center, applied for their certification from the State Department of Health (DOH). The bowling alley has a lease with Hunt, and is pursuing a liquor license.

4)       Kalaeloa Roadway Problems – There are many lighting and intersection concerns regarding Kalaeloa roadways; specific locations should be emailed to Ms. Malama so that she can direct the concern to the proper agency. On the Kamokila Boulevard extension, the speed limit is 25 mph, and then changes on Roosevelt Road in front of the school to 15 mph, which is not consistent with State standards.

Senator Mike Gabbard – Erika Moon, from Sen. Gabbard's Office, distributed the report and commented:

1)       Earth Day – April 22 is Earth Day.

2)       Senate Bill 1260 (SB 1260) Relating to Air Pollution Fees – SB 1260, relating to the removal of exemptions from air pollution fees for certain sources, is moving along in the legislature.

3)       Shark Tours – Sen. Gabbard attended the recent shark tour meeting held in East Honolulu and wants to insure that the tours will not migrate to the Leeward side.

4)       Talk with the Senator – Sen. Gabbard will "talkstory" on May 16, at 9:00 a.m. at the Waikele Starbucks.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

Fort Barrette Road Name Change – Representative Sharon Har introduced House Resolution 87 (HR 87) to change the name of Fort Barrette Road to Kualakai Road, which was defeated by Sen. Gabbard, who voted it down because the idea didn't come first to the Board for public input. Many felt that the Ewa NB shouldn't make decisions for this community. It was voiced that Sen. Gabbard could have informed the Board and community that the issue was pending.

Representative Karen Awana – Elwin Spray, from Rep. Awana's Office, circulated the report and invited concerns.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

HR 87 Related to Fort Barrette Road Name Change – It was pointed at that there is already a Kualakai Road in Kapolei, located nearby in the Villages of Kapolei, and Rep. Har was strongly urged to come to or at least notify the Board with issues that affect this community.

Representative Sharon Har – No representative or report present.

State Department of Hawaiian Homelands (DHHL) – Pat Kubota, from DHHL, provided the following updates:

1)       Earth Day and Administrative Professionals Day – Not only is April 22, 2009 Earth Day (always on April 22), but it is also Administrative Professionals Day (4th Wednesday in April).

2)       Agricultural Loans/Grants – It's the 39th anniversary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and 56 communities in 34 states will receive agricultural loans/grants to improve water availability and quality.

3)       Federal Stimulus Funds – DHHL was awarded $5.8 million in stimulus funds.

4)       Homestead Community Meeting – On April 25, a homestead community meeting will be held. The agenda includes a review of the second increment of 90 homes.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

Bishop Estate Trustee Candidates – An official announcement will be made by the selection committee over the weekend to indicate the three finalists for the position of Bishop Estate trustee. The public will have 30 days to comment, then the list will be sent to a court judge, who will review the candidates and choose one. Micah Kane, Chairman of DHHL, is among the candidates that will be named, along with Ray Soon, a previous DHHL Chairman, and Tony Ching, the HCDA Executive Director.

Governor's Representative – Ron Boyer, Director of the State Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) distributed Gov. Lingle’s report, and mentioned the following items:

1)       Campbell Industrial Park H-1 Freeway Exit – A traffic study will be done of the Campbell exit of the H-1 Freeway, due to the additional influx of people. Safe installation of signals is difficult because the engineers do not want to back traffic up onto the freeway.

2)       North-South Road / Farrington Highway Signs Relocated – Two hard-to-read signs were relocated.

3)       Makakilo Drive Hairpin Turn Ramp – The guard rails were replaced twice since 2005, and the 25 mph sign is gone. Minor mitigation efforts for the slippery road have been implemented.

4)       Lack of Notification of Traffic Impacts – Concerns about the lack of notification to the Board and community about projects that will greatly impact traffic were noted.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:

1)       Campbell Off Ramp – The concrete on the Campbell off ramp is buckling and rising again.

2)       Settlement Costs – The settlement for past claims involves $30 million to be paid per year for 20 years, and will end in 2015. DHHL has a strategic plan to make up the $30 million by leasing some lands, and funding has been received from other sources; all types of creative financing are being considered.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Other NB Candidates – Chair Timson invited other NB candidates present up to speak since the Board member candidates spoke earlier in the meeting. Charles Zahn, a retired U.S. Navy Master Chief, could serve as a spokesman and stressed his lack of a personal agenda. Troy Cullen expressed his desire for positive change in the Kapolei area, and to make a difference.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 9:51 p.m.

Submitted by: Rachel M. Glanstein, Neighborhood Assistant

Reviewed by: Maeda Timson, Chair