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McCully - Moiliili Neighborhood Board # 8

Regular Meeting Minutes-draft

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Washington Middle School Cafeteria

Call to Order – Chair Lockwood called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m. with 9 members present. This 15 member Board requires 8 votes to have a quorum and to take action. (Larson, Tabor, Devilbiss, Lockwood, Takamura, Cuadra, Carlos, Kondratovich and Kyi-Yim)

Neighborhood Board Members Present – Marijane Carlos, Serena Kyi-Yim, Klement Kondratovich, Betty Lou Larson, Ron Lockwood, Loren Tilley, Gregory Cuadra, John Kato, Judy Devilbiss, Shaunna Tabor, and Clifton Takamura

Members Absent – Les Hata

Guests – Mark Oto-Mayor Hannemann’s office, City Councilmember (CM) Duke Bainum, Officers Tony Kahapea, Sgt E. Egami, Sgt. Kalani, Major R. Green-Honolulu Police Department (HPD); Firefighter Scot Demotta-Honolulu Fire Department (HFD), Kurt Tsue-Board of Water Supply(BWS), John Gollner-CM Bainum’s office, Elmer Kaai & Dyan Kleckner-University of Hawaii representatives (UH), Carl & Lillian Novak, Raymond Lalosin-McCully Citizens Patrol; Tom Heinrich-Manoa Neighborhood No. 7 & Senator Taniguchi’s office, Francis Chor-Senator Carol Fukunaga’s office, Susan Todani-Kamehameha Schools, John Yamamoto, Janet Imine, Mie Aoki, Sandra Kunimoto, Jesse Ponce de Leon, Clarke Galauki, Laura Horigan, and Malia Chanel-Benjamin-Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO). 

PUBLIC SAFETY & COMMUNITY LIAISON –

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD): Firefighter Demotta reported statistics for last month included: 2 structure, 1 rubbish and 1 vehicle fires, 32 medical emergency calls, 2 search & rescue and 9 miscellaneous emergencies. The new fire-station will be ready in March; a blessing is scheduled for both the firehouse and the new fire truck. Safety Tip: Smoke alarms save lives and are an important part of a home fire escape plan. Since the late 1970s, properly installed and maintained smoke alarms have contributed to an almost 50 percent decrease in fire deaths. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 65 percent of reported home fire deaths in 2000-2004 resulted from fires in homes that had no or inoperable smoke alarms. An estimated 890 lives could be saved each year if all homes contained working smoke alarms. Do you have working smoke alarms in your home? The following are a few smoke alarm and fire safety tips: Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home, including the basement; Test smoke alarms at least once a month or as directed by the manufacturer; Replace smoke alarm batteries once a year or as directed by the manufacturer. Practice your home fire escape and designate a safe meeting place outside your home.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD)-District 1: Sgt. Kalani reported statistics for last month included; 5 assaults, 1 burglary, 3 driving under influence (DUI), 3 graffiti, 26 motor vehicle collisions (MVC), 3 motor vehicle thefts (MVT), 6 property damage, 2 robberies, 1 sex assault and 6 unauthorized entries into motor vehicle (UEMV). Sgt. Kalani also reported he will be moving to day shift and will no longer be attending the Board meetings. District 5: Officer Kahapea reported; 12 burglaries, 17 UEMV and 22 thefts. Major Green was introduced to the district and reported on-line crime was increasing; offered a public warning and be mindful of offering information on-line and to report any suspicious information.

Questions, answers and concerns:

1)       Carlos reported campers at the Hard Rock Café property; including seven shopping carts. HPD will share report with the Waikiki beat as it’s a shared borderline.

2)       Cuadra reported cars have been cited by HPD and remained at the same location for over 3 months now. HPD said to email the complaint to HPD and an officer will be sure to check on expired registration as well as vehicle having license plates. HPD said the “no parking” signs may also be in need of updating to include a “no parking” zone.

3)       Tabor reiterated the need for HPD patrol cars to slow down at the intersection of University Avenue fronting the Marco Polo condominium.

4)       A constituent reported the recent McCully Street robbery items were left behind at the McCully Dairy Queen store. HPD reported receiving items and thanked the public for assistance.

5)       Chair Lockwood inquired when Hawaiian Brians was up for a liquor license hearing. HPD said they will check and report back with findings.    

University of Hawaii (UH) – Dyan Kleckner reported the newly partial renovated UH Clarence T.C. Ching field was being blessed on Monday; open to the public; currently planting of trees were underway during the phase one project. During the holidays, UH has taken efforts to decrease air conditioning use resulting in about 20 thousand dollar savings. Elmer Ka’ai reported: UH is currently reviewing applicants to fill the vacancy once Acting President McClain vacated the seat come June 2009; two candidates remained still to complete interview process. Some 200 bills remained at legislature; some dealing with deteriorated campus facilities. New bicycle and walking paths were open leading near the back gate apartments.

Questions, answers and concerns:

1)       Larson inquired how offices were operating without air conditioned or windows. E. Ka’ai said the recent budget cut has initiated this new trend on campus with much savings worth extending the effort to reducing energy throughout the year.

2)       Tilley concerned about not being able to use the library for research projects. E. Ka’ai said the Sinclair library was operating full time with air conditioning instead of Hamilton.

3)       A constituent asked what the $385 thousand budget cut meant for the UH West Oahu Campus (UHWOC). E. Ka’ai said each campus was responsible for its own budget; UHWOC will have its own separate budget. He can report findings at the next meeting.

Mayor Hannemann’s Representative – M. Oto reported all capital improvement project requests was being submitted to Council by the March 2 deadline. For the fiscal year starting July 2010, the City expected revenues to decline by about $170 million  or more, depending on the duration and severity of the economic downturn; this is why the City was developing a two year budget, one that will look down the road rather than what is at the next roadblock. The City also reported it has settled with three unions; Hawaii Government Employee Association Business (HGEA), HPD and HFD. Mayor addressed the U.S. Conference of Mayors in Washington DC shortly before President Obama’s inauguration, and underscored the special attention the USCM has placed on supporting the travel industry and the arts. Mayor Hannemann was the chairman of the USCM Tourism, Arts, Parks, Entertainment and Sports Committee, as a result of his initiatives, funding for county projects should move forward in Congress.  Former councilmember Ann Kobayashi was one of those involved in selecting the re-naming of the new McCully-Moiliili fire station No. 29. The summer of 2009 should complete the first phase of the recreation center; the swimming pool construction should be completed by 2010. The Beachwalk sewage project was currently working on the mountain side of Ala Wai School and forecasted completion within the next 30 months; further information will be available once the project is completed. Young, Isenberg and McCully Streets potholes were reported via the city’s online complaint service to expedite service. The overgrown grass along University Avenue between King and Date Streets was cut by City Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) on January 20. M. Oto added that an up to date and concise report regarding the renovation of the Ala Wai Community Park recreation building and the ongoing Beachwalk sewer project would be best obtained from the City Department of Design and Construction; a more updated report should be forthcoming. The McCully Recreation Center lights near the Japanese School have been vandalized frequently; work to correct the situation was in progress.

Questions, answers and concerns:

1)       Tabor inquired what affects of the sewage project on the bike and walk path along the mountain side of the canal.

2)       Chair Lockwood asked if the City Department of Environmental (ENV) was going to be available for a presentation once the sewage project was completed. M. Oto said the contact was Mark Owens and should be available for a presentation upon request.

3)       Carlos was curious to know when work on the Kalakaua Park was to start. M. Oto said bidding process was the delay and was scheduled to begin in April. Takamura asked if the city was aware there were dead trees and branches in the Ala Wai Canal at the park itself. M. Oto will submit a report.

4)       Cuadra asked for an update on the bulky item issue. M. Oto said the City was at a point of discussion to pinpoint these factors: a) how to cite a citizen b) how to identify a condominium tenant/owner c) and what department shall this duty fall under.

5)       Cuadra also asked what the Beachwalk Project was costing tax payers. M. Oto said the wastewater budget was appropriated by Council two years ago at 360-million.

6)       R. Lalosin asked why the City only has one crane shared by the whole island. M. Oto said the City equipment budget has been also affected by the budget cuts; therefore, all purchases, leasing and travel had to be reorganized to fit current budget with a 2-percent restriction. M. Oto said the 2007-08 equipment budget was mostly cash funded; explaining why there was a shortfall this year 2008-09. J. Gollner added to contact Councilmember Bainum’s office as they worked extremely close with DFM on high priorities including the Makiki Stream.

7)       The Novaks reported a couple incidents where baseballs coming from the Moiliili Park damaged a vehicle and another hit someone; who was responsible for liability. M. Oto said he will report findings at the next meeting.

Governor Lingle’s Representative – Sandra Kunimoto reported the governor submitted a package of 168 legislative bills to the State Legislature. Among the priorities was a proposal focusing on solutions to meet the State’s near-term obligations while planning for the future and sustain a comprehensive measure to increase Hawaii’s energy independence and achieve the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative goal of a 70 percent clean energy by 2030, as well as measures to increase the state’s food self-sufficiency.  This will assist in decreasing the over-reliance on food imports and strengthening Hawaii’s agriculture industry. The State Labor and Industrial Department announced the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for December was 5.5 percent, a 0.5 percentage point increase over November’s revised rate of 5.0 percent. The seasonally adjusted December labor force totaled 661,750 and was comprised of 625,300 employed and 36,450 unemployed. The State was facing a challenging economic time; the administration implemented a proactive, five-point economic action plan to revitalize the economy: a) Increase tourism outreach and marketing b) Invest in improvements to our infrastructure and state facilities c) Lower business fees and provide tax relief d) Attract private investment, especially in energy and technology d) Maximize federal dollars and partnerships. More information can be found at www.hawaii.gov; comments and inquiries may be sent to governor.lingle@hawaii.gov.

1)       Kyi-Yim confirmed if Darwin Ching was assisting with displaced employees. K. Tsue said he was involved with the rapid response team; to access needs, placement and skill building involved especially with large company layoffs.

2)       A constituent complained that the “homeless” was becoming a major problem in the district; a recent report said the homeless were being sent here on one way airline tickets from the mainland. S. Kunimoto said the state was working with other states to also return citizens to their home states and vice verse.

3)       A constituent said according to a report; asked why the State allowed the Hawaii Public Housing Authority (HPHA) to accumulate about $200,000 in unpaid rent income from residents; also why were state contracts being offered to out of state companies rather than keep business within the state. 

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – K. Tsue reported a 45 feet pipeline main break on January 20 on McCully near Date Street; service was restored by January 24. BWS was pleased to announce that Wayne Hashiro has recently been named BWS manager and chief engineer; Hashiro was previously the City’s Managing Director. The Halawa Xeriscape Garden workshops are held each month and geared toward community education on outdoor water conservation. To register for classes and further information; contact Diane Moses at 748-5363 or by email: tours@hbws.org. Information was also available at: www.boardofwatersupply.com.

Questions, answers and concerns:

1)       Takamura asked if BWS knew if Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) was going to upgrade and improve their infrastructure to prevent further island wide power outages; also, was there a possibility that HECO will appoint more commissioners. K. Tsue said HECO was a private utility entity regulated by public utility commissioners, however; they had no plans to increase commissioners.

2)       L. Novak asked why BWS allowed Fern Street traffic during the recent main break which created an unsafe situation both for drivers and foot traffic; also, what can BWS offer to assist with needed bed items for residents affected by the flooding due to main break. Chair Lockwood suggested meeting with K. Tsue in private to share information and affected residents should make a report with BWS.

3)       A constituent asked if the City and BWS had a pipe prevention task force to prevent such big main breaks. K. Tsue said BWS does detection work inspection; the pipe in question was found not to be corroded and may have suffered major pressure due to ongoing nearby projects currently being done. K. Tsue added the last main break on McCully Street was about two years ago.

RESIDENTS’ CONCERNS – There were no concerns this month.

ELECTED OFFICIALS –

Councilmember Bainum reported it was a pleasure to serve on the City Council (CC) once again; serving as Chair of the Committee on Public Infrastructure and was a voting member of the following committees: a) Budget b) Executive Matters and Legal Affairs c) Public Safety and Service and d) Zoning. He commended his government experienced staff and invited concerns be brought to his attention as needed. Concerns currently working on with CC were: a) Recycling Programs b) Transit Rail Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) c) UH Facility Process d) Energy Sustainability Concerns e) Vacation Rental Bill f) McCully Fire Station g) Emergency Medical Services h) Noise Bill, and i) Senate Bill 534-relating to elections.

Questions, answers and concerns:

1)       Kato inquired how much was the current sewage funding. Councilmember Bainum said it was annually about $150-million.

2)       Takamura asked Councilmember Bainum to assist with some type of resolution regarding bulky item pick up. Councilmember Bainum asked Takamura to please contact his office to discuss the concern further.

3)       A constituent was concerned over affects of the high cost of the rail project would be on fixed income families. Councilmember Bainum said further information was forthcoming; although the rail technology was confirmed, the route has not.

Representatives Choy, Nishimoto and Saiki’s reports were circulated. 

Senators Fukunaga and Taniguchi’s reports were circulated. 

PRESENTATION –

Kennedy Theater (KT) Project Update: Dean Bingham reported the theater was built in 1963 when the East West Center was established. The use of the facility at KT has far outgrown the original capacity of the theater, including parking spaces and various departments that have no central location for classroom instruction, faculty office or space. The current proposal will consist of renovating KT including balconies, rehearsal halls, staging and constructing a new adjoining building for classroom, office space, and a tea house along with a parking garage consisting of 450 spaces. A sketch of the project was presented for viewing.

Questions, answers and concerns:

1)       T. Heinrich inquired on the number of seating at the KT. D. Bingham said there were 700 seats.

 FILLING OF VACANCIES – Chair Lockwood announced there were still three Sub-District 1 vacancies; the Neighborhood Commission and Corporation Counsel was reviewing the option to consider if at large seats can be considered instead to fill vacancies before the next fiscal year. Chair Lockwood addressed the issue of the State Sunshine Law not being compatible with the new Neighborhood Plan and felt those involved should be “fired”.

HOUSEKEEPING – Chair Lockwood reported:

A. Mo’ili’ilii Graduate Planning Practicum resources – no report available

B. OMPO Report; it has been reported that an average of 30 percent of vehicle traffic in the district was due to parents shuffling their children to school.

C. Legislators Community Clean Up of October 18, 2008 – no report available

D. Kapiolani Medical Center Upgrade – a presentation will be made once the Environmental                          Impact Study (EIS) was completed.

E. Public Hearings; Rail Transit Draft EIS – December 8 was a scheduled meeting at Neal Blaisdell Center in the Hawaii Suite starting from 6 to 8:00 p.m.; comments due by January 7, 2009.

F. Care A Van; an organization which provided services to the homeless has left the district. They were a great community service and wish them well.

G. Neighborhood Commission – There will be on-line voting for the 2009 Neighborhood Board elections; applications were available tonight for anyone interested in being part of the 2009 – 2011 Board.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS –

Topics were discussed earlier in the agenda.

NEW BUSINESS –  

A. Reappointment of Mrs. Joan Manke as the Executive Secretary (ES) for the NCO: Chair Lockwood said he supported Mrs. Manke’s reappointment; his friendship with Mrs. Manke originated back in “younger days” and was confident she will continue doing a great job for the NCO.  The Board moved unanimously in support of Mrs. Joan Manke’s reappointment as the ES for the NCO. (11-0-0; Larson, Tabor, Devilbiss, Lockwood, Takamura, Tilley, Cuadra, Carlos, Kato, Kondratovich, Kyi-Yim)

B. Bulky Item: The Board moved unanimously in support of an ordinance to enforce the city rules concerning bulky items pick up. (11-0-0; Larson, Tabor, Devilbiss, Lockwood, Takamura, Tilley, Cuadra, Carlos, Kato, Kondratovich, Kyi-Yim)

C. Fireworks coalition with HPD: The Board moved unanimously in support of asking the state to totally ban fireworks with the exception of organized firework displays. (11-0-0; Larson, Tabor, Devilbiss, Lockwood, Takamura, Tilley, Cuadra, Carlos, Kato, Kondratovich, Kyi-Yim)

D. McCully-Moiliili Public Library Security Fence and Gate: The Board moved with majority in support of securing the McCully-Moiliili Public Library with a gated fence. (10-0-1; Aye; Tabor, Devilbiss, Lockwood, Takamura, Tilley, Cuadra, Carlos, Kato, Kondratovich, Kyi-Yim: Abstain; Larson)

E. Bill 08-6 Pertaining to Bed & Breakfast: The item was deferred back to the committee.

F. Item was deferred      

G. Item was deferred

H. Old Stadium Park & Ala Wai Community Park Restrooms: The Board moved to oppose the resolution to install gates at the Old Stadium Park & Ala Wai Community Park Restrooms. (6-3-2: Aye; Devilbiss, Lockwood, Tilley, Cuadra, Carlos, Kondratovich. No: Kato, Larson, and Takamura; Abstain: Kyi-Yim and Tabor)

I. Items were deferred back to committees

APPROVAL/AMENDMENTS OF REGULAR BOARD MEETING MINUTES & REPORTS –

The February 5, 2009 meeting minutes were adopted without objection.

Treasurer’s Report – Tilley reported the Operating balance was $1,132.17; Publicity balance remained at $3,080.00 and the Refreshments balance was $46.93 with an expenditure of $73.07; total appropriated balance was at left at $4,259.10.

The Board moved unanimously in support for the Board to spend the refreshment balance in April 2009. (11-0-0; Larson, Tabor, Devilbiss, Lockwood, Takamura, Tilley, Cuadra, Carlos, Kato, Kondratovich, Kyi-Yim)

Committee Reports –

1. Affordable Housing/Homeless: The next meeting was pending due to the review of legislation. Committee Chairperson: Larson
2. Public Safety & Legislative Affairs: There was no meeting in September; however the PIG on N.B. Task Force will meet at Burger King. Committee Chairpersons: DeVilbiss and Takamura
3. Planning, Zoning & Transportation: Meetings continued on the third Tuesdays of each month. Committee Chairperson: Carlos; Vice Chairperson: Kondratovich (meeting during Discover Mo’ili’ili Day.
4. Schools & Community Outreach: A meeting was held at Discover Mo’ili’ilii Day. Committee Chairpersons: Tabor and Kyi-Yim

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m. without objections.

 Submitted by M. Chanel-Benjamin