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McCully - Moiliili Neighborhood Board # 8

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2009

WASHINGTON MIDDLE SCHOOL CAFETERIA

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Ron Lockwood called the meeting to order at 6:36 p.m.; a quorum NOT present with seven (7) members. Note: This 15-member Board requires eight (8) members for a quorum and official Board action. Housekeeping announcements expressed included restrooms locations, disable cell phones and the rules of being recognized to speak and time limits.

Members Present: Maryjane Carlos, Gregory Cuadra, Judy DeVilbiss, John Gollner, John Kato (2) (arrived at 7:45 p.m.), Serena Kyi-Yim (arrived at 6:40 p.m.), Betty Lou Larson (arrived at 6:43 p.m.), Ron Lockwood, Shaunna Tabor (appointed tonight), Clifton Takamura, Lee Ann Tokuhara.

Member(s) Absent: Les Hata (2).

Vacancies: There are four (4) seats vacant in Sub District 1.

Guests: Elmer Kaai (University of Hawaii Manoa); Sgt. Alan Rivers (Honolulu Police Department – District 7); Sgt. Erik Ochoco and Kristin Killam (Honolulu Police Department – District 1); Moani Wright Van Alst (Board of Water Supply); Representative Scott Saiki, Capt. Gary Harbottle (Honolulu Fire Department), Klement Kondratovich, Janet Inamine, Michele Sansone (Office of Councilmember Ann Kobayashi), Jack Watanabe, Mark Oto (Mayor’s Representative), Marie Richardson (Neighborhood Commission Office).

PUBLIC SAFETY & COMMUNITY LIAISON:

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – Capt. Gary Harbottle of the McCully Mo’ili’ili Fire Station reported the following:

• Statistics included – 5 structure fires, 59 medical emergencies, 2 search/rescues, 20 miscellaneous.
• Fire Safety Tip – Fire Prevention Week (FPW) is from October 4 to 10, 2009, and the theme is "Stay Fire Smart! Don't Get Burned." FPW has its roots in the Great Chicago Fire on October 8 to 11, 1861. Most fire injuries and fatalities occur in homes, so the campaign focuses on preparedness (including having smoke detectors and a family fire escape plan) and underscores the importance of regularly checking homes for fire hazards. In October, elementary school children will receive a Fire Fighter's Safety Guide. Parents are encouraged to review the guide with their children.

No questions followed.

Serena Kyi-Yim arrived at 6:37 p.m. (8) eight members present, and quorum established.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – The following officers were present and reporting for Districts 7 and 1; Sgt. Alan Rivers (District 7), Sgt. Eric Ochoco (District 1), and Officer Killam.  

District 7 (East Honolulu) – The monthly report distributed highlighted the crime trends from September 1 to October 1 – 18 burglaries, 2 robberies, 30 thefts, and 11 unauthorized entries to motor vehicles.

District 1 (Waikiki) – Statistics included 2 assaults, 5 burglaries, 1 Driving under the influence (DUI), 0 drug offenses, 3 family offenses, 0 graffiti, 29 motor vehicles collisions, 1 motor vehicle thefts, 5 property damage, 1 robbery, 1 sex assault, 3 unauthorized entry to motor vehicles (UEMV).

Betty Lou Larson arrived at 6:43 p.m. (9) nine members present.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

Motorist on the cell phones did not cause most of the accidents of the 29 motor vehicle collisions reported.  

University of Hawaii Manoa (UHM) – Elmer Kaai reported the following:

• UPASS Initiative – Both UHM and the City have submitted revisions to the MOU (memorandum of understanding). A second revision with incorporated comments from both parties is being drafted for review. Upon agreement with the incorporated edits, a final MOU will be ready to go to the Board of Regents (BOR) for their perusal and approval. UHM will present the MOU at the November 19, 2009 BOR meeting.
• Current Enrollment – a) Total number of the residents & non-residents enrolled as of September 21, 2009 is 20,419. Because of the economy, it appears UHM enrolled more resident undergraduates and fewer nonresidents. b) For incoming enrolled – 1962 freshman, 1958 transfer, 202 returning, and 102 seeking a 2^nd degree. c) Tuition current and future – Regular Semester UHM, 2009-2010 Full Time – resident $3,384, non resident $9,408; 2010-11 FT – resident $3,792, non resident $10,512; 2011-12 resident $4,200, non resident $11,616. Total cost per semester (tuition & room/board) for AY 2010-11 will approximately: $8,542 residents, $15,262 non-residents, and $10,438 western undergraduate exchange.  
• UH Manoa’s Gartley Hall – Will close after recent structural survey work found the 88-year old building had major structural damage that raised significant questions about the safety of the building.
• Announcements – The Manoa Experience is Saturday, October 17, 2009, 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. The campus wide open house provides student and their families the opportunity to visit the campus to experience all that UH has to offer.  

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

Closing of Gartley Hall – It was questioned whether there are any cost savings with closing of Gartley Hall; however, shutting down hurts because of space so it’s more a lost of money.  

Kamehameha Schools – No representative was present however, Chair Lockwood reported the following:

1. Bulky item flyers have been given to Resident Managers to remind tenants/owners of pick up days.
2. A bulky item flyer was sent out to 16,000 addresses in Mo’ili’ili & McCully
3. Interview with resident Derek Kauanoe of Mo’ili’ili Matters re: trash was aired on Monday – Kurt Matthews
4. Rainbow Vista – There will be a blessing on Tuesday (6^th).  People will be able to view a studio apartment fully equipped with brand new appliances.
5. Varsity Parking Lot – The paving has begun and hopes to be completed by Thanksgiving are high.
6. East Side Grill – will become a preschool.  Refurbishing of the site is underway, and a permit for using part of the parking lot for a playground is being sought.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

Lockwood noted that Rainbow Vista looks good, thanks to our supporting a variance. The rental of apartments, with the studios going for about $1100/ month, is underway.

Mayor’s Representative – Mark Oto reported the following:

• Kalakaua Avenue and Kanunu Street Project – This project is a private sewer project headed by the developers of the Allure Hawaii condominium, which will be dedicated to the City. The latest update from the contractor is remedial work needing to be completed is scheduled for completion the beginning of October 2009.  
• Bus Stop fronting McCully-Mo’ili’ili Fire Station – As part of the construction of the McCully-Mo’ili’ili Fire Station, the Department of Design and Construction is constructing a new bus shelter at the bus stop adjacent to the fire station on University Avenue. Information indicates construction of the shelter in October 2009. When the shelter is completed, installation of stools under the shelter roof will replace the bench.
• Duties of Officers Stationed at Roadwork Sites – The concern has been passed onto the police regarding the duties of these officers and will be handled by HPD.  

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. Ground Markings – It was inquired whether the ground markings on the road (Waiola and Algaroba; Algaroba and Makahiki Way) had anything to do with “No Parking” and whether “no parking” signs will be implemented. A request was made for a guideline and or policy of the City Department of Transportation Services (DTS).
2. Parking Meters – A question of who collects the money from the parking meters and where does that money go; and a suggestion to put parking meters at Ala Moana Park.

Governor’s Representative – Kunimoto apologized for her absence tonight and forwarded the response to an inquiry from previous, as it relates to the layoff of 50 agricultural inspectors. The inquiry from a parent with small keiki was that with the layoff of the 50 agricultural inspectors, would there be Christmas trees this year. The response was that the department is trying very hard to work with all partners to insure the safe and insect free delivery of trees for the holiday season, for all islands.  

No questions followed.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Moani Wright Van Alst reported:

• Water Main Breaks – None reported in the month of September 2009.
• General Water Announcements included: 1) Wildfire Prevention and Watershed Protection – BWS works closely with HFD to ensure efficient and reliable water service to save lives and property; and supports HFD’s efforts to prevent wildfires on Oahu because these wildfires take an toll on our drinking water supply. An informational brochure was available to explain how you can join the effort to protect our island’s watershed and forests. 2) Water Conservation Tip includes: a) Participate in supporting projects that remove invasive plants, join community watershed partnerships and educate others of the importance to watersheds. B) Conserve water every day reduces the need to use ground water that is essential for healthy watershed forests and stream ecosystems. 

Questions, comments and concerns:

1. Planned Construction – Over the next six-years, there is no planned BWS construction in the McCully-Mo’ili’ili area that have gone out to bid. However, BWS does have tentative projects in the area currently in the design phase. All tentative dates are subject to change: a) University Avenue 12-inch Main, Part II, between South King Street and Varsity Place, tentative for FY 2012; b) Kapiolani Boulevard 12-inch Main, McCully Street to Date Street, tentative for FY 2014; and c) Kalakaua Avenue Water System Improvements, Phase III, South Beretania Street to Atkinson Drive, tentative for FY 2015. 
2. Meter Readers – There is no exact time-frame period or schedule as to when the meter readers are in the area.
3. Conjunction with Sewer Work – BWS has no considerations in conjunction with the sewer project on Kalakaua Avenue, Beretania Street and Atkinson Drive. The situation on Kalakaua Avenue noted to be a bad situation, added that better coordination scheduling projects could better balance the situation. BWS has not received any relocation plans regarding the sewer lines on Date Street.  

RESIDENTS’ CONCERNS: None expressed at this time as questions were asked to appropriate people, above.

ELECTED OFFICIALS:

Representative Scott Saiki – Representative Saiki distributed his monthly report and highlighting the following:

• Totally Against Graffiti – Many thanks to the hundreds of volunteers and the businesses which donated the supplies to help wipe out graffiti in our community on Saturday, September 26, 2009.
• Schedule Conflicts – Councilmember Kobayashi, due to a conflicting schedule will not be present tonight; and Representative Rida Cabanilla would not be able to attend tonight either.   

A brief discussion focused on; 1) Representative Rida Cabanilla’s article and her attendance to this Board meeting to explain her disparaging remarks. 2) To Councilmember Kobayashi, a comment that the seniors are grateful for her efforts regarding the parking stalls on South King Street; Sansone will convey this message. 3) Attention called to the “6th Annual Community Clean-Up” on Saturday, October 17, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Kaimuki High School parking lot. This recycling community cleanup and fundraiser is for the Kaimuki High School, Kapahulu Center and Mo’ili’ili Community Center. 

Written reports were available for Councilmember Ann Kobayashi, Representatives Issac Choy, Scott Nishimoto, Senators Brian Taniguchi and Carol Fukunaga. Michele Sansone, representative for Councilmember Kobayashi was present to take back questions for the Councilmember.

FILLING OF VACANCIES: There are four (4) vacancies in Sub District 1. Resident Shaunna Tabor expressed interest in filling a vacancy in the Sub District 1 area. Carlos moved, DeVilbiss seconded to nominate Shaunna Tabor. Shaunna Tabor appointed by UNANIMOUS CONSENT, 9-0-0. (AYE: Carlos, Cuadra, DeVilbiss, Gollner, Kyi-Yim, Larson, Lockwood, Takamura, Tokuhara.

Recessed at 7:21 p.m.; NA Richardson administered the Oath of Office. The meeting reconvened at 7:25 p.m. now with 10 members present.

PRESENTATIONS: None.

HOUSEKEEPING:

Report on OMPO (Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization) Meeting of September – On September 16, 2009, the State Department of Transportation presented their program called Walk Wise Hawaii. Emphasis is on senior citizens. The next OMPO meeting, scheduled for October 21 at 3:30 p.m. at Honolulu Hale.

McCully-Mo’ili’ili Public Library – The long-delayed air conditioning chiller unit is being replaced. The parking lot closed for trenching work of a new water line and the parking lot should re-open mid-October. The Library will close in early November as the new chiller is calibrated, checked for leaks and baseline readings are established.

40^th Anniversary of McCully-Mo’ili’ili Public Library – November 22, 2009 is the 40^th anniversary but with all the work going on, a celebration is being scheduled for Saturday, November 28, 2009 that will include a Lion Dance, dancers, Hawaiian music. Other ways to celebrate are now part of a “hands on” lesson at the UHM Library School (MLS).   

McCully Mo’ili’ili Fire Station – The Board is still awaiting word on the celebration.

The Lock Up Storage – Will open within the next ten (10) days at the corner of McCully Street and Kapiolani Boulevard. The neighbors at the Ala Wai Manor will be watching and listening; any concerns regarding hours of operation, or noise forwarded to the Board by AOAO (Association of Apartment Owners). The Board held a special meeting on this issue in June 2006. A tape of this meeting is part of the AOAO’s records.

Letter for Lunalilo School – There was discussion with committee chairs and a letter will be out within three days.

Neighborhood Commission Meeting September 28, 2009 – The meeting focused on approving five sets of minutes; filling of vacant seats in Kalihi-Palama Neighborhood Board No. 15, and the Nuuanu Neighborhood Board No. 12 as their membership fell below quorum. The NC also received a procedural complaint filed against the Commission. The next meeting is scheduled for November 23, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. at Honolulu Hale.

T.A.G. Report of September 26, 2009 – There were 216 participants in the latest effort to keep the neighborhood clean. Besides Chair Lockwood, two other board members participated as well. A 2.5-minute video clip is available for viewing, if interested email Chair Lockwood. The next T.A.G. event scheduled for ‘Spring 2010’.

Flu Shots – Available at Longs Drugs on Friday from 10 a.m. – 12 noon and 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call the store for more details.

Pacific Alliance to Stop Slavery – Upon consultation with committee chairs, the issue was tabled until submittal of legislation.

Dog Park – There will be a meeting with the Parks & Recreation people to go over concerns of the City Department of Design and Construction (DDC). One issue to talk about was the need for 20-foot wide gate to accommodate construction vehicles in transit.  

Representative Rida Cabanilla – A concern of Janet Inamine’s regarding Rep. Cabanila’s disparaging remarks about the McCully-Mo’ili’ili neighborhood. The Representative has a scheduling conflict and was unable to attend tonight’s meeting.

McCully Recreation Center – There will be a meeting on Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the McCully Recreation Center’s future. Invited are Councilmember Ann Kobayashi, Representative Scott Saiki, Senator Carol Fukunaga, the City Department of Parks and Recreation and all surrounding neighbors. The public is encouraged to attend.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Bulky Items – A monthly letter sent to the Department of Environmental Services with the community’s status, bulky item locations that need attention. The education of neighbors (postcards, letters, PSA’s) was discussed earlier.

Complete Streets & Hauoli Street / South Kings Street – Pedestrian activated crosswalk update on the starting date for this project is still unknown.

Parking Meters on South King Street Update – No update.

John Kato arrived at 7:45 p.m. (11) members present.

Shopping Carts – Retail Merchants of Hawaii were undertaking the responsibility to pick up shopping carts, per a City Council committee meeting in 2006.  A report is needed as 35+ shopping carts are in Mo’ili’ili at this time.

Street Sweeping & No Parking Hours – Discussion especially focused on areas more densely populated where the street sweepers are unable to do an effective job sweeping. The heavier transient streets seem to get more attention. Whereas in other areas, the debris gathers, the gutters clog, and the drainage areas often times are flooded.

NEW BUSINESS:

Telephone Books – This is a proposal to keep extraneous books out of the landfill. Chair Lockwood read the resolution aloud ~ requesting that the City & County of Honolulu require by Ordinance, that these companies only distribute their books on a request only basis; and resolving that this Ordinance would further reduce the amount of waste generated, prolonging the life of our landfill, and helping to beautify the neighborhoods.

Larson moved, Kyi-Yim seconded to approve the resolution. Discussion followed focusing on the pros and cons, and whether it is a benefit for the consumer and at whose cost. The companies involved have a huge interest in that they it is revenue generated. Though several were in favor of the resolution, others noted, aside that it created jobs and a freedom of speech issue might well be involved. Nevertheless, the majority agreed that ONLY upon request of the consumer that the telephone books be delivered. A method cited a process similar to that of MidWeek which uses a postcard mailing to the consumers. The motion was ADOPTED 8-2-1. (AYE: Carlos, Cuadra, DeVilbiss, Gollner, Larson, Lockwood, Takamura and Tokuhara. NO: Kyi-Yim, Tabor. ABSTAIN: Kato.) See Attachment 1, following Adjournment. 

Changing the McCully-Mo’ili’ili Neighborhood Board No. 8 from three sub districts to all “At Large” seats – Chair Lockwood noted with the Board’s past issues the difficulty of filling Board vacancies, a consideration was entertained to look at having all at-large seats.

Discussion followed noting in the past, concerns expressed opposed the idea for fear that the larger condos might stack the Board with members and control the votes. However, more recently it seems that the community is small enough and the issues not so wide spread that one member who not so supportive in the past could be open to now. Other comments pertained to the process and timeline that entails a request for change presented to the Commission, redistricting the boundaries, a series of public hearings, etc. Discussion continued with the consensus that the Board would be open to looking at the idea.    

APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING MINUTES:

May 7, 2009 – Kyi-Yim moved, Cuadra seconded to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of May 7, 2009 as circulated. Hearing no amendments, the minutes was APPROVED as circulated, 11-0-0. (AYE: Carlos, Cuadra, DeVilbiss, Gollner, Kato, Kyi-Yim, Larson, Lockwood, Tabor, Takamura and Tokuhara.)

September 3, 2009 – Deferred.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Larson reported that the Board spends on a monthly basis approximately $58 to $63 for printing and postage of agendas and minutes (no facilities rental reflected at this time). In July, the Treasurer’s report reflects an expense of $3,040.77 for the yearly newsletter, leaving a balance in the Publicity account of $39.23.

Discussion ensued suggesting a way to reduce Board costs was by mailing only agendas without the minutes as it is posted on the NCO website for review.

ADJOURNMENT: The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 5, 2009. The meeting adjourned at 8:38 p.m.

Submitted by

Marie Richardson

Neighborhood Assistant

Attachment 1:

RESOLUTION:  Requiring telephone, communication and other distributors of

Telephone/yellow page books to be on a request only basis

Whereas, every six (6) months, or so, each and every household, business and government office is bombarded with multiple copies of Telephone  /Yellow Pages type books;  and,

Whereas, the majority of the people receiving these books don’t even take them into their homes, instead they put them right into the trash where they end up in our landfill which is nearing capacity; now therefore,

The McCully – Mo’ili’ili Neighborhood Board No. 8 requests that the City Council of Honolulu require, by Ordinance, that  these companies only distribute their books on a request only basis; and

Be it resolved, that this Ordinance would further reduce the amount of waste generated, prolong the life of our landfill, and would help beautify our neighborhoods.

Now therefore, be it finally resolved, that copies of this Resolution be transmitted to Council Person, District 5, Ann Kobayashi, State Representatives Nishimoto, Saiki, and Choy, State Senators Fukunaga and Taniguchi, the mayor of the City & county of Honolulu, the Managing Director, and all other Neighborhood Boards.

Adopted by the McCully-Mo’ili’ili Neighborhood Board No. 8 on Thursday, October 1, 2009 by a vote of 8-2-1. Aye- Carlos, Cuadra, DeVilbiss, Gollner, Larson, Lockwood, Takamura, Tokuhara; No- Kyi-Yim, Tabor; Abstain - Kato

/s/:  Ron Lockwood