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AIEA NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING

MONDAY, JULY 9, 2007                                                                           

AIEA LIBRARY CONFERENCE ROOM

CALL TO ORDER: First Vice Chair Jane Sugimura called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. with a quorum present. She announced that Chair Clark is off-island.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Jane Sugimura, Tuika Faumuina, Wilbert Ho, Silvia Sugihara, Danielle Lum, Monica Texeira, George Passmore, Carl Jacobs, Ron Mobley.

MEMBERS ABSENT: William Clark (excused), Ruby Hargrave, Tracy Arakaki, Ross Lee. Two vacancies in Sub district 1(Halawa, Halawa Heights, Stadium, Halawa Valley, Ford Island).

GUESTS: Breene Harimoto (Councilmember Gary Okino’s Office), Sharleen Oshiro (Councilmember Romy Cachola’s Office), Ken Best (Representative Blake Oshiro’s Office), Tracy Burgo (Board of Water Supply), Wayne Adams, Captain Mel Oshiro (Honolulu Fire Department), Mary S. Booth, Claire Tamamoto and Kehaulani Lum (Aiea Community Association), Susan Sheldon, Suzette Adversalo, Marty Aldinger, Lt. G. Arakawa and Officer Murakami (Honolulu Police Department, District 3-Pearl City), Ross Tsukenjo (Senator Donna Kim’s Office), David Tanoue (Mayor’s Office/Deputy Director, Department of Planning and Permitting), Eileen Clarke (Board of Education), Nola Frank (Neighborhood Commission Office Staff).

ROLL CALL OF BOARD MEMBERS: The roll call of Board members was administered with a quorum of nine members present.

INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS: Chair Sugimura asked guests to introduce themselves at this time.

PUBLIC SERVICE REPORTS:

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – Captain Oshiro reported:

1)     Statistics for the month of June included fires: 0 structure, 2 rubbish, and 3 vehicles; emergencies: 75 medical, 22 miscellaneous, and 0 major incidents.

2)     Fire Safety Tip: Take the time to childproof your home, especially since children are on summer vacation. Check for potentially dangerous situations, i.e., electrical shock, accidental falls, or poisoning from medications, cleaning fluids, and houseplants. Keep matches and lighters in a safe place and out of reach of small children.

3)     In response to Jacobs, the Aiea Station did respond to the brush fire yesterday near the Pearl City Wal-Mart.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – Lt. Arakawa reported statistics for the month of June included 12 auto thefts, 19 burglaries, 41 criminal property damage (includes graffiti), 72 thefts, 60 U.E.M.V. (unauthorized entry into motor vehicle) and calls for service for the Aiea area beats were 1, 943.

Questions, comments, concerns followed: A) In response to Faumuina, the re-licensing department at the Pearl City Station has closed. HPD is in the planning stages for a juvenile detention section so it is not side by side with the adult detention area. License renewals can be done at the Pearlridge Satellite City Hall, but no drivers road testing. B) Tamamoto asked if there was any information relating to the break-in and stolen car from a residence on Puakala Street. Regarding the burglary on Puaala Street, there were no specifics. Lt. Arakawa explained that in general an officer responds to the call, takes information and evidence given to the detective. If the strong leads place one suspect at the crime scene, the detective will target that person. C) All Pawn Shops are regulated, but enforcement is difficult. It is hopeful that the shop owners will abide by the law and not accept stolen items.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Tracy Burgo reported:

1)     There were two water main breaks for the month of June. The first happened on June 16 at 99-118 Laulima Street to an 8-inch cast iron main that is 53 years old; the other occurred on June 22 at 99-081 Ohiaku Street to an 8-inch main that is 42 years old.

2)     There is a statewide drought and its more severe on Maui and Hawaii Island. Oahu has also experienced a dryer than normal winter and rainfall totals are expected to remain lower than normal, but there is no current cause for concern. Unlike other islands, Oahu does not rely on surface water or catchment systems that react quickly to rainfall to supply our water. There is a spike in water consumption during the summer months, so all residents are reminded to use your water wisely, use what you need and do not waste. If drought conditions continue, conserving now will help to prolong the need to call for more stringent water-saving measures.

3)     Be careful during brushfire season. Brushfires not only put a strain on the Honolulu Fire Department, but it also puts a strain on our water resources.

4)     Friends of Halawa Xeriscape Gardens and BWS will sponsor the 19^th Annual “Unthirsty Plant” Sale on Saturday, August 4, 2007, Halawa Xeriscape Gardens, 99-1268 Iwaena Street from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more information call the BWS at 748-5041.

Questions, comments, concerns followed: Mobley questioned since Oahu does not use surface water how does long it take from the mountain top to reach the tap. Burgo explained that the water goes from the mountain top, works it way to the water sheds then to the aquifer.  Technically the process takes about 25 years. Mobley commented with 2 floods and a one-year low, does that mean there will not be a drought on Oahu for 25 years.

Board of Education (BOE) – Eileen Clarke reported:

1)     The Board honored student member Darren Ibarra for his two-year service on the Board.

2)     Colonel Karla J. Moyer has been appointed by the Senior Military Commander in Hawaii to serve as Military Representative to the Board.

3)     Daniel Hamada was appointed by the BOE to the position of Assistant Superintendent of the Department of Education Office of Curriculum, Instruction, and Student Support (OCISS).

4)     A canine presentation was experienced by BOE members yesterday. The pilot project was demonstrated at four schools on the island of Maui to sniff out drugs.

5)     Chapter 19 which governs students discipline is under review.

6)     Graduation requirements for students graduating in 2010 are 24 units, which is of concern to the BOE.

Questions, comments, concerns followed:

1)     Faumuina questioned required credits and asked about HISTEC. Clarke replied that Hawaii students must obtain all the units in order to graduate. It is difficult and students cannot fail any subjects.

2)     In response to a question regarding foreign language requirements at high schools, Clarke explained that foreign language is an elective and students should plan ahead as to foreign language requirements to enter the college of their choice.

3)     Mobley said that he worked with the High School Student Council that did a study on Chapter 19, which was to have been reported to the DOE and asked if that what is being used to develop the current Chapter 19 now under review. Clarke said not entirely. Currently there are ongoing meetings and public hearings will be held before the new Chapter 19 is passed. Safety issues must be addressed.

4)     Regarding “No Child Left Behind” Tamamoto asked why so many tenth grade students tested in math fail. She was told that the test includes Algebra 2, and the students are not on that level of math. Course schedules for seventh to tenth graders show they are not taking math. It was stated to her that the students are expected to fail. Clarke replied the good news is that a new contractor has been hired to work on the next testing (redesign) and take into consideration not to test the students beyond their limits.

5)     In response to an audience member, standardized testing is done in the spring.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES – June 2007: Chair Sugimura asked if there were any corrections/additions to the minutes.

• Top of agenda should read”…Aiea Public Library Conference Room…”
• Page 4, Questions, comments, concerns line 5 #2 should read, “…witness’…”
• Page 5, Questions, comments, concerns line 4 #1 should read, “…suspicious activities…”

Without objections the June 2007 Minutes of the Regular Meeting were accepted as corrected.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Treasurer Jacobs reported:

May 2007 – Expenditures in the Operating/Publicity Account were $63.16 leaving the balance at $1,373.82. No expenditures in the Refreshment Account leaving the balance at $120.

June 2007 – Expenditures in the Operating/Publicity Account were $84.94 leaving the balance at $1,288.88. No expenditures in the Refreshment Account leaving the balance at $120.

FY 2008 Aiea Board Appropriations – Funding appropriation for Aiea Neighborhood Board is $4,703 for Operating/Publicity Account costs and $120 in the Refreshment Account.

COMMUNITY CONCERNS: There were no community concerns.

COMMUNITY REPORTS:

`Aiea Community Association (ACA) – Claire Tamamoto reported:

1)     The ACA and the Aiea Library are doing a joint project of oral histories of Aiea. She introduced Kehaulani Lum who has been interviewing area residents at the center. All information gathered will be turned over to the library.

2)     The Aiea High School Band wants to have a Community Parade on December 8, 2007. An application for a permit has been filed and she was informed that insurance worth a half-million dollars would be needed. The proposed route would be from Aiea High School on Ulune Street to Aiea Heights Drive (Diamond Head bound), right on Moanalua Road and right to Pearl Ridge District Park.

3)     The Aiea Pony Baseball League Pinto Division (7-8 year olds) clinched the Kalanianaole Athletic Club Pinto Tournament Championship going undefeated beating Mililani A 15-0 on Sunday July 8th. The Aiea Pony Baseball League Bronco Division (11-12 year olds) earned the right to represent Hawaii State in the Western Zone Tournament in Olympia, Washington by beating Mililani A 8-3 at the Hanapepe Stadium on Kauai.

4)     The next ACA meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 30, 2007, at the Aiea Intergenerational Center (located across from Palazzo and Sakura Deli on Kauhale Street) at 7:00 p.m.

Questions, comments, concerns followed: Regarding the parade, Chair Sugimura suggested getting a non-profit organization involved with the parade. One suggestion was the Democratic Party who has an underlying policy and could add a rider to their insurance policy costing under $200. Ho mentioned that the Board and Lions Club could participate. Chair Sugimura noted that participants must pay a fee to participate in the Kailua Fourth of July Parade. Regarding the Mayor’s participation in the parade, Tanoue suggested checking with the Mayor’s office because of the Kapolei City Lights scheduled for the same day. Chair Sugimura asked if a committee has been formed. Tamamoto replied not yet.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Department of Hawaiian Homelands (DHHL) Kroc Community Center Land Exchange – Deferred until the September meeting.

NEW BUSINESS:

Hawaii 2050 Sustainability Plan Briefing – Deferred until the September meeting.

Kaahumanu Street One-hour Parking – Deferred until the September meeting.

REPORTS BY PUBLIC OFFICIALS:

Mayor’s Representative – David Tanoue reported:

1)     Everyone was encouraged to attend “Get On Board” Saturday, July 14, 2007, Leeward Community College from 8:30 a.m. to noon for the Mayor’s kick-off conference for the City’s Transit Program focusing on Community Participation in Transit Oriented Development (TOD). Invitations were available.

2)     The Department of Transportation Newsletter was available for interested persons to review.

3)     Information regarding Hurricane Season can be found on the Office of Emergency Management website.

Questions, comments, concerns followed:

1)     Chair Sugimura relayed that previous transit meeting noted two transit centers at Selmons lot in Aiea and one in Pearl City. Tamamoto noted the location for the Aiea area transit centers have been changed and designated one at the Selmons lot near Circuit City and the other at the Aloha Stadium. She raised concern for the watercress farm that sits within a quarter mile. Chair Sugimura encourage all to attend the meeting this Saturday.

2)     Tanoue noted that meeting relative to the transit centers should start in about a year. The Waipahu template will be developed first. Tamamoto added that Bishop Estate owns the watercress farm land. Tanoue clarified that there will be a quarter mile rim around the station (mass transit) and a half-mile rim around the rail transit. 

3)     Chair Sugimura mentioned there was a lot of talk about street changes and wanted to know how people could get from one area to the next. Tanoue replied an elevated fixed guideway to clear other right-of-ways; he noted planning is ongoing.

4)     Jacobs commented that he read the entire 600 pages of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), but it offered no solutions.

5)     Tamamoto mentioned that the Hub & Spoke will go to the community for input on their needs.

6)     Tanoue stressed the importance of taking advantage of the land management tool to prevent missed opportunities and make it as successful as can be.

7)     A member of the audience asked about security. Tanoue replied that has been taken into account and do not want any blind spots. As an example he noted restrooms poses security problems.

8)     Instead of one meeting date, Mobley suggested two meeting dates to maximize the attendance.

9)     Lum emphasized that vandalism, graffiti, tagging should be minimized. Tanoue said the best way to manage the situation is take care of the problem right away.

10) Tamamoto commented that the law is only as good as the enforcement; people must watch themselves and care about the community.

Representative Blake Oshiro – Ken Best reported 1) A special legislative session will be held tomorrow, 11:30 a.m. at the Capitol. 2) Announced an Aiea/Pearl City Town Meeting, coordinated by Senator Kim will be held on Wednesday, August 15, 2007, Waimalu Elementary School Cafeteria.

Senator Donna Kim – Ross Tsukenjo distributed flyers regarding the Aiea/Peal City Town Meeting at 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., Wednesday, August 15, 2007 at Waimalu Elementary School Cafeteria. Topic of Discussion will be Disaster Preparedness “Personal Preparedness.”

Questions, comments, concerns: A) Mobley urged interested persons to attend the meeting. B) Jacobs inquired if the State’s plans and contingency would be discussed. Mobley added that the discussion will also touch on terrorist responses.

Senator Norman Sakamoto - Ross Tsukenjo announced that the written report was available for interested persons to review.

Councilmember Gary Okino – Breene Harimoto circulated the written report and noted: 1) The City is now accepting applications for the low-income property tax credit, which provides property tax relief for low-income and senior low-income homeowners. Log on to www.honolulu.gov/budget/taxcredit2008.pdf for an application form. 2) Councilmember Okino introduced Bill 48 (2007), relating to the increase from 10 feet to 12 feet the available width of street, roadway, or alley that a parked vehicle must leave available to permit the free movement of vehicular traffic. This bill was reported out of the Transportation and Public Works Committee for Second Reading and a Public Hearing. A Public Hearing was held and the bill passed Second Reading on July 5th.

Questions, comments, concerns followed: 1) Chair Sugimura asked how one applies for the tax credit. Harimoto replied there is an application form, but he was not sure if the form is yet available. Mobley added that forms may be available at the satellite city halls. Harimoto noted if the forms are not available to call the Councilmember’s office. 2) A comment was made that in Pearl City widening of a street took away on-street parking, and allowed parking on one-side of the road. A solution would be no widening of streets because it takes away parking. 3) Lum expressed concern regarding the intersection of Moanalua Road/Koauka Loop/Pali Momi Street roads are in poor condition, and asked if the City plans to do any remediation to the intersection in the near future. Tanoue will follow up.

Councilmember Romy Cachola – Sharleen Oshiro circulated the written report and was available to answer questions. Mobley asked when the Councilmember plans to attend this Board meeting. He noted that previous requests have been made. Follow up will be done

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Executive – No report

Transportation – Jacobs reported that he attended the OMPO meeting as a citizen. OMPO is deeply involved in transportation issues. He offered to attend the July meeting and give a report at the Board’s September meeting.

Human Services – No report.

Community Relations and Publicity – Lum reported the following proposed communications activities to increase the Neighborhood Board’s presence and relevance in Aiea: 1) Honolulu Advertiser – Advertiser Blog/My Advertiser. 2) Newsletter (possible one pager six times a year delivered to Aiea residents) and topics to include and costs 3) Pride in Aiea campaign (recognitions). Sugihara added: 4) Redo the sign project (Welcome to Aiea) seeking volunteers. 5) School presentations (invite to Board meetings). 6) Acknowledgements. Ho congratulated Lum and Sugihara for doing a great job. Chair Sugimura noted the suggestions are good and encouraged others to get involved.

Questions, comments, concerned followed: Ho asked if the sign project was the Ipuka Pa sign and stated that the sign was put up by the Lions Club. Sugihara replied yes and that the sign was looking unkempt. Ho added the area at the Gateway to Aiea has not been maintained. He thinks when the road project was done the sprinkler system was broken. This issued was referred back to committee. Chair Sugimura will organize a group for a clean-up day.

9:10 p.m. Passmore left the meeting; eight members representing quorum still present.

Parks and Recreation – 1) Ho reported the Halawa District Park recreation area restrooms are in disrepair and not maintained. Tanoue will follow up. 2) Ho complimented the State people for their work on Rainbow Bay Park; no homeless are living there or under the freeway and the park is looking nice. 3) Napuanani Park (near Orchid Hills) has broken bottles and glass in the parking area. He noted with the park closure signage, could the police increase patrols in the area. Mobley added that park users park their cars along the edge of the park on the public street. Tanoue will follow up.

Planning and Zoning – No report.

Restoration Advisory Board – Mobley reported at last week’s meeting the discussion was focused on Hickam. He mentioned that it has been awhile since an update was reported to the Board from Rick McComb of the Solid Waste/Hickam POL regarding area projects.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Ø      The Board will Recess in August. The next meeting will be held on Monday. September 10, 2007, Aiea Public Library Conference Room at 7:30 p.m.

Ø      Tamamoto announced a Car Wash will be held on Saturday, July 14, 2007 at Alvah Scott Elementary School from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT – There being no further Board business, Chair Sugimura adjourned the meeting at 9:15 p.m.

Submitted by Nola Frank                                            Reviewed by Jane Sugimura

Neighborhood Commission Office Staff                      1^st Vice Chair