PEARL CITY NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

DRAFT MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2006

HIGHLANDS INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL CAFETERIA

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Albert Fukushima called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. with a quorum of nine (9) members present.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Jerilyn Anderton, Sol Ray Duncan, Sheila Fukuda, Albert Fukushima, Kevin Furutani, David Howton, Myrtle Nyuha, James Pickard, Sr., Cruz Vina, Jr.

MEMBERS ABSENT: Marin Bogema, May Imamura-Uruu, David Lemon, Davin Takahashi.

GUESTS: Capt. Alan Calhoun (Honolulu Fire Department); Lt. G. Arakawa (Honolulu Police Department); Jay Hara (Emergency Medical Services – Area Supervisor); Matt Miura (Verizon Wireless); Leland Nakai (Honolulu Local Emergency Planning Committee); Mike Okada, Misa Umemoto (Studio 200); Richard Balcom (CDS International); Lance Maja (State Department of Accounting and General Services – Planning Branch); Lan Yoneda (Board of Water Supply); Breene Harimoto (State Board of Education); Robert Sato (Councilmember Okino's Office staff); Scott Ishikawa (State Department of Transportation); Rick McComb (Hickam Air Force Base Civil Engineer); Boyd Schneider (Manana Wal-Mart General Manager); Gary Omori (Public Involvement Team for Honolulu High Capacity Corridor Project); John Higgins, Sean Uwaine (Voter Owned Elections); Governor's representative Deputy Director Claire Nakamura, Neal Sakamoto (State Department of  Public Safety); Isaac Hokama (Mayor's representative – Special Assistant to the Mayor); Bert Warashina (Senator Nishihara's Office staff); Reid Seino (Representative Takumi's Office staff); Kendall Matsuyoshi (Representative K. Mark Takai's Office staff); Brett Bulseco, Brandon Fujimura (Pearl City Community Youth); Rod Ohira (Honolulu Advertiser); Don Robbins (Leeward Current); Kevin Cassel (Olelo); Bert Nakashima, Principal Gerald Suyama, Chad Yamashiro (Pearl City High School); Kent Kitagawa (State Department of Health, Laboratories Division); Judith Lutfy (Wailuna Recreation Lodge); Tim Hagan, Lois Miyashiro, Herbert Pang, Alvin Toda; Rachel M. Glanstein (Neighborhood Commission Office staff).

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Anderton led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.

REMINDERS OF TIME LIMIT POLICY AND PROCEDURES ON INPUT, COMMENTS, RESPONSES AND PRESENTATION OF AGENDA ITEMS: Chair Fukushima summarized the policy as follows – ONE minute for comments; THREE minutes for reports; FIVE minutes for presentations already presented at the committee meeting, TEN minutes for new presentations; ONE minute for comments/questions/responses; recognition from the Chair is required to speak; all cell phones should be turned off or put in "silent" mode.

Chair Fukushima stated that this is the first meeting in the new facility, and the Board will continue to meet here for about two years while waiting for the library to finish its administrative use of the auditorium. Smoking is not allowed on the school campus; gates will be closed at 10 p.m. He thanked Kevin Cassell for joining the Olelo microphones to the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) public address system. Chair Fukushima reminded everyone present to sign in.

EMERGENCY AGENCY REPORTS:

HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) – Capt. Alan Calhoun circulated December and January reports and gave the following information:

1)       December and January statistics (Waiau Station/Pearl City Station) – 6/1 structure, 8/13 brush, 10/6 rubbish and 4/5 vehicle fires; 123/79 medical, 0/1 search/rescue, 24/11 miscellaneous and 12/0 public assistance emergencies. There were no major incidents in the area in the past two months.

2)       Fire Safety Tip – Fire, Building, and U.S. Postal Codes, along with City ordinances, state that all property owners shall place their house numbers so that they're readily visible from the street; this assists HFD and other first responders to locate an address more quickly in case of emergency.

Howton commented how difficult it can be to read address numbers on residences (and places of business) and noted that many people ignore the fact that the numbers are required, which makes it hard to find addresses.

HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) – Lt. G. Arakawa distributed a report containing statistics from October to December and read the following statistics for December: There were 22 auto thefts, 18 auto theft recoveries, 17 burglaries, 26 criminal property damage and 24 unauthorized entries into motor vehicles (UEMVs). There were a total of 8,127 calls for service in District 3, with some 1,796 calls (22.10%) from the Pearl City area. Also included in the handout were five pages containing specific dates, times, and locations of crimes in the area.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1)       Pickard expressed his concern over the four to six cars that park around a sharp turn around 1748 Komo Mai Drive on weekends, causing numerous accidents; he has gotten no response to any of his calls. Lt. Arakawa replied that HPD is also concerned and will address the problem.

2)       Chair Fukushima asked how the Board could support the request to fill HPD's open positions in Pearl City. Lt. Arakawa suggested that Board members call Major Randy Macadangdang to work together to fill the positions and get additional funding. Chair Fukushima noted that Pearl City has one of the highest crime rates on the island. Lt. Arakawa conveyed that two additional beats have been established and funded, but they haven't filled the positions yet – he will follow up.

3)       Fukuda asked if there had been many reports of drug use or drinking at the Manana Skate Park. Lt. Arakawa answered that there haven't been many reports and advised the community members to call 911 if something is seen, and there is no need to wait for the police to arrive.

Lt. Arakawa added that they will be addressing the Sportsmen Lounge problems in a few weeks, creating a Task Force with the Honolulu Liquor Commission (LIQ).

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES (EMS) – Area Supervisor Jay Hara for Aiea-Pearl City provided the following information:

1)       Statistics (January/December/November) – EMS responded to 295/356/382 medical or trauma-related calls and transported 215/250/270 patients to various hospitals.

2)       Statistically, EMS had the least amount of calls during this holiday season than for the past five years, which is probably due in part to the newer outlying units. This month has been steady but the area hospitals are reaching their maximum capacity.

3)       EMS has transportation guidelines that state that they will go to the closest appropriate hospital in certain emergency situations, which may not be the individual's choice, the doctor's choice, or the insurance carrier's choice. This guideline is in place so that EMS can remain in the area to respond quickly.

PRESENTATIONS:

CHRISTMAS DECORATED YARD AWARDS – Publicity Refreshments (P/R) Committee member Duncan presented Certificates of Recognition to the following winners:

1)       Ramona and Benjamin Aguirre of Hualau Street in Momilani.

2)       Betty and Ben Adona of Hoolaulea Street in Momilani.

3)       Lola and Lawrence Sorrow of Hoohulu Street in Highlands.

4)       Debbie and Sharon Ueda of Hoohulu Street in Highlands.

5)       Jay and Janice Nakandakare of Amokemoke Street in Pacific Palisades.

6)       Stanley and Jane Pascua of Kaweloka Street in Manana.

7)       Judy and Andy Sumaong of Palamoi Street in Manana.

8)       Jeanette and Patrick Malama of Luehu Street in Manana.

9)       Dennis and Barbara Fujioka of Waimano Home Road in Highlands.

10)   The Wailuna Recreation Lodge on Kaahumanu Street.

JANUARY 2006 YARD OF THE MONTH – P/R Committee member Duncan presented a Certificate of Recognition to Ellen and Kenneth Arakawa of Hoomoana Street in Momilani as the January 2006 Yard of the Month Award recipient.

CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (CUP-1) FOR ANTENNA INSTALLATION – VERIZON WIRELESS – Matt Miura circulated handouts, gave a PowerPoint presentation and highlighted the following: Verizon Wireless is proposing to install a telecommunication facility at the Pearl City Bus Terminal on Waimano Home Road to expand cellular coverage and improve accessibility. The goal is to improve cellular service in the residential areas of Pearl City. This antenna will generate revenue for the City. It will be installed in a secure compound and will have a minimal impact on the community. The proposed facility is a 60-foot high tower with panel antennas pointing in three different directions. Miura also made a presentation at the committee meeting.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1)       Chair Fukushima asked how soon the project will start after Verizon Wireless receives the CUP-1. Miura answered that after they get the CUP-1, the zoning application to the City Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) takes 60-90 days, the building permit takes 60-90 days, construction takes 30-60 days, so the total would be eight months. Chair Fukushima inquired as to the aim of this antenna installation. Miura replied that they want to improve service within a five mile radius of the site, and increase the number of channels in the area decrease dropped calls, busy signals and allow more people to call at the same time.

2)       Alvin Toda asked if there are any problems with tall buildings interfering with antennas, and questioned why cellular companies don't just install all of their antennas on the highest buildings. Miura responded that tall buildings can interfere, but that Verizon Wireless selected this site because there are no tall buildings to interfere with the signals.

3)       Howton commented that it's difficult to see from the pictures in the handout where exactly the antenna facility will be located. Miura answered that it will be in the back garage area of the site, near Wal-Mart.

Development, Planning and Zoning (DPZ) Committee Chair Vina moved, by the direction of the committee, to approve the application for the installation of a telecommunications antenna at the Pearl City Bus Facility by Verizon Wireless, which was adopted by unanimous consent (9-0-0).

PEARL CITY-WAIPIO GENTRY PROJECT REPORT OF THE HONOLULU LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE (LEPC) BY OAHU CIVIL DEFENSE AGENCY (OCDA) – Leland Nakai distributed handouts, gave a PowerPoint presentation, and emphasized the following information: The largest industrial accident happened in 1984 in Bhopal, India, where thousands were killed or injured. At a West Virginia institute in 1985, there was a leak that resulted in six workers injured and the transport of 100+ residents to the hospital. In October and November of 1985, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducted studies and yielded the following statistics – 403 highly toxic chemicals are used by 577 companies at thousands of U.S. locations; only 20% of chemicals are tested; 6,298 toxic chemical accidents since 1980, with 135 killed and 1,500 injured.

In 1986, requirements were established for federal, state, and local government, and industry for emergency planning and community right-to-know reporting. This created State Emergency Response Commissions, Emergency Planning districts and Local Emergency Planning Committees. The Hawaii Revised Statutes, Chapter 128E – HEPCRA – 1993 established an LEPC in each county, and defined its composition and functions. The Honolulu LEPC began in November 1987, and has 28 voting members (both governmental and private individuals). The functions of the Honolulu LEPC are to prepare an Emergency Response Plan (ERP), receive and manage chemical information forms and data, receive reports of spills and releases, and evaluate resource requirements. The Honolulu LEPC was not funded until 1999, but has received operational funds from the State Department of Health (DOH), and federal grants since 2002.

LEPC Projects (items (a) and (b) are phased due to funding constraints): (a) update the ERP; (b) prepare hazard assessments for potential chemical releases; (c) 2002 extremely hazardous substances – Oahu; (d) 2003 Honolulu Harbor area (one of the first projects); (e) 2004 Airport area (recently completed); (f) 2005 Pearl City – Waipio Gentry; (g) 2006 Kakaako – Waikiki; and (h) 2006 Homeland Security Project. Nakai showed pictures of each area mentioned.

The Pearl City Industrial Park – Waipio Gentry Business Park Project started in January 2005. A total of 370 businesses have been identified and surveyed. There will be follow-up calls and site visits. The 19 businesses that reported chemicals were studied. Several hazardous chemicals were identified, but there weren't many large quantities to report. The project report will contain (a) facility data for first-responders, with contact information and a chemical listing (type, quantity and location); (b) hazard assessments, with a worst-case release scenario and a more likely alternative case release scenario; and (c) hard copy and electronic maps. This report will be provided to emergency responders, such as HFD, HPD, EMS, state and federal agencies.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1)       Chair Fukushima expressed his concern over new development possibly placing residents in danger; he asked how the residents would be notified of an industrial accident. Nakai replied that the emergency service agencies (HPD, HFD, EMS) and the OCDA can help with notification. He assured that Pearl City residents should not be too concerned about problems with hazardous materials.

2)       Furutani inquired if the Honolulu LEPC informs the public that these accidental releases could occur. Nakai responded that they don't have a specific public awareness campaign, although they are looking into it, but the threat in the Pearl City area may not be enough to warrant the campaign. The public will be warned if something happens.

3)       Alvin Toda asked if the LEPC has looked at the groundwater around the watercress fields for hazardous materials. Nakai answered that it's not in their purview, but that there is no concern of that right now anyway, because it's unlikely that any substance would make it to the aquifer into the drinking water.

Nakai will keep the Board updated.

The agenda was moved up to hear an update on the Waimano Ridge Master Plan.

COMMITTEE REFERRALS FOR ACTION/DEFERRAL: DEVELOPMENT, PLANNING AND ZONING (DPZ) –

WAIMANO RIDGE MASTER PLAN (WRMP): Mike Okada, from Studio 200, introduced Misa Umemoto (Studio 200), Richard Balcom (CDS International), and Lance Maja, from the State Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS), all part of the consultant team headed by Studio 200. He circulated the final draft of the WRMP and noted that this has been an ongoing project for several months, with presentations made at Board and committee meetings, a public forum, and the final presentation this evening to the Board of the plan. He highlighted the following: The State is seeking to find better use for the land at Waimano Ridge with the goal of subdividing the site into parcels for management by various State agencies that want to construct new facilities or renovate existing facilities on the site. The main goals and objectives of the WRMP are to: (a) develop a concept for use of the property; (b) primarily use site for public facilities; and (c) provide security (guard will control traffic).

The current users of the Waimano Ridge site are the DOH (the primary user), the State Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), the State Department of Education (DOE), and the State Department of Public Safety (PSD). The prospective users are the City Department of Emergency Medical Services (ESD) and the University of Hawaii (UH) to build a Regional Bio-Safety Laboratory.

The total area of the site is 242 acres, with about 110 acres of developable land. There are 50 buildings, 20 of which are empty, and many of them are in disrepair. The infrastructure (water, sewer, electrical, roads) is also in a state of significant disrepair. Okada pointed out pictures and gave brief histories of each building shown.

The buildings to remain are the: (a) DOH Hale Complex, an administrative office complex for DOH, with six buildings; (b) Pearl City Cultural Center, managed by the Pearl City High School, and consisting of the Performing Arts Center and Annex, used for community meetings and school activities – the WRMP proposes to provide 100 additional parking stalls and improvements to the gardens; (c) DLNR Engineering Division Baseyard – DLNR proposes to use the existing structures to continue to provide storage for vehicles and equipment; (d) Juvenile Sex Offender Treatment Facility; (e) DLNR Conservation Enforcement Baseyard, which provides vehicle parking and equipment storage – complex will be expanded to include the multi-purpose building and training yard (to be shared by PSD and DLNR); (f) DOH State Lab, the largest existing facility, where DOH conducts clinical and environmental testing; (g) PSD Training Academy, the former Hale Ola Hospital complex, used by PSD for training of security officers and adult corrections officers.

The WRMO has allocated space for these two tentative uses: (a) the UH Regional Bio-Safety Laboratory – a new 71,000 square foot facility to be staffed by 25 personnel and accommodate up to 25 visitors; and (b) the EMS facility – a new 30,000 square foot facility consolidating a number of scattered facilities, which will primarily be for administrative and storage purposes. Two additional agencies requested facilities on this site late in the process: (a) the DOH Clean Water Branch; and (b) the DOH Radiological Response Team.

All of the proposed users (continuing and new) are all public use facilities, would benefit from a secured site, and would have minimal noise and traffic impacts on the site and the surrounding areas.

The current cost estimate is $38 million, which will provide the infrastructure and does not include any construction cost to provide any of the actual facilities. The various projects will be funded separately.

Master Plan Schedule (tentative): Today, January 24, 2006, is the date of the final presentation of the Draft Final Master Plan to the Board. Following this, the draft EA will be submitted to the Board, which is currently scheduled for May 23, 2006. This will trigger a mandatory review period which would end on June 23, 2006. The Findings of No Significant Impact (FONSI) is anticipated to be issued by DAGS by October 23, 2006.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1)       Gerald Suyama asked if the cost of $38 million is enough to cover the cost of upgrading the water and well system, and if they would be constructed to meet the Board of Water Supply's (BWS) standards. Richard Balcom responded that the cost estimate includes a new water tank, pump system and distribution system, which they want to build to meet BWS standards, so that they can turn it over to them.

2)       Suyama presented a letter to the Board requesting the continued use of the Sun House project (at Waimano Ridge) for Pearl City High School's (PCHS) special education programs; he introduced Bert Nakashima, the Special Education teacher at PCHS, and Chad Yamashiro. Nakashima stated that it's necessary to have an alternative (training) program for the special education children. Arrangements have been made with four organizations to contribute to the training program: (a) Employment Training Center (for facility maintenance); (b) Building Industry Association (for drywall and carpentry); (c) Hawaii Construction Apprenticeship Program; and (d) Windward Community College (for landscaping and horticulture). Chair Fukushima requested that they be more specific about which site they want. Suyama noted that they only want to maintain the same space (the Sun House area) for their programs. Balcom responded that they are willing to provide a large area near PCHS for the program to use, because concerns had been raised about continued use of the Sun Project House, since it may not be structurally sound and is in disrepair. He continued to say that the Sun Project site is too close to other facilities that contain secure, sensitive equipment. Suyama added that they would also ask that additional parking stalls be created for the Pearl City Cultural Center (PCCC). Pickard offered that Suyama should talk to the DOE and the DOE should send a representative to the WRMP meetings. Balcom commented that the WRMP proposes to increase the area around the PCCC, which would belong to the DOE, which is enough to provide for parking and training areas for the special education programs. Okada affirmed this statement and added that there are no funds to build the buildings for PCHS but there is no problem with allocating the land. Fukuda asked the Nakashima if PCHS has the ability to continue with their special education programs. Nakashima replied that their construction experts reported that the Sun Project House is structurally sound. Chair Fukushima contributed that if PCHS is not satisfied, then they need to sit down with the consultants and let the Board know what's decided.

A recess subject to the call of the Chair was taken from 8:06 to 8:19 p.m.

DPZ Committee Chair Vina moved, on behalf of the committee, to support the Waimano Ridge Master Plan, Alternative No. 2, as presented this evening. Chair Fukushima offered an amendment to add "and provide an area between the Hale Complex and the Pearl City Cultural Center for a dog park", which was adopted by unanimous consent. The motion, as amended, to support the Waimano Ridge Master Plan, Alternative No. 2, as presented this evening, and provide an area between the Hale Complex and the Pearl City Cultural Center for a dog park, was adopted unanimously, 9-0-0.

The agenda was resumed.

COMMUNITY REPORTS:

BOARD OF WATER SUPPLY (BWS) – Lan Yoneda reported the following:

1)       There was one main break in December. An eight-inch ductile iron main pipe that was 20 years old broke on 2446 Akepa Place in Pacific Palisades on December 13, 2005. The main broke around noon and the water was back on by 9 p.m.

2)       On January 3, Clifford P. Lum began his appointment as the new Manager and Chief Engineer of the Board of Water Supply. As the eighth manager and chief engineer of the BWS, he is responsible for providing the overall strategic direction and management of the BWS. Lum is a registered civil engineer in both Hawaii and California. He was born in Honolulu, raised in Hilo, and holds both a bachelor's and master's degrees in Civil Engineering from Loyola Marymount University.

3)       Water Savings Tip – Limiting your shower time to five minutes and replacing your old shower head with a water-saving one can save up to 20 gallons of water per shower.

PEARL CITY LIBRARY – Fukuda reported the following events for Branch Manager Floriana Coffman: On Monday, January 30, at 7 p.m., the musician Robert Jospι (drummer, percussionist and composer, known for his inventive use of rhythmic styles) will give a performance. On Monday, February 6, at 6:30 p.m., Lee Goldberg (an accomplished scriptwriter, executive producer and mystery novelist) will give a television scriptwriting workshop. Storytime is now at 9:30 a.m., from January 18 to February 23. Preschool Storytime is at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesdays (suggested age is at least two and one-half years old). Puzzletime is at 9:30 a.m. on Thursdays (suggested for toddlers).

BOARD OF EDUCATION (BOE) – Breene Harimoto provided the following information: The BOE holds community meetings that allow for public discussion on issues affection public education and public libraries. There will be such a community meeting held on February 22, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Waipahu Intermediate School cafeteria. Regarding school maintenance, over the last three years, $557 million has been appropriated by the legislature; however, the government has released only $334 million.

There was no representative present to give the Leeward Community College (LCC) update.

RESIDENTS’ CONCERNS:        

PEARL CITY AREA PARKS AND RECREATION PROJECTS – Robert Sato, from Councilmember Okino's Office, reported on the Pacific Palisades Community Park road widening project. He pointed out that the last two pages of Councilmember Okino's report contained pictures of the project area. The main purpose of the project was to widen the entrance and add a sidewalk. The entrance road has been widened considerably. However, there have been some unforeseen changes made: (a) the electrical box could not be relocated; and (b) there was a telephone conduit not listed on the map that had to be relocated. The unforeseen changes added up, so the City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) decided that there weren't enough funds to install the security lighting, and two less parking stalls were installed. The cattle gate should be installed in March (a tentative date). The main components of the project have been completed.

Chair Fukushima asked how to request the extra funding for the security lighting. Sato explained that there were supposed to be approximately nine lights on the sidewalks, and provided two alternatives to ask for the funding: (a) request the City administration to put money in the 2007 budget for this project; and/or (b) ask Councilmember Okino and the City Council to put the money in the 2007 budget. Chair Fukushima referred the issue back to the Legislative and Capital Improvement Programs (LCIP) and Health, Education and Welfare (HEW) committees.

H-1 VIADUCT WIDENING AND HOMELESS PROBLEM – Scott Ishikawa distributed a handout with a news release and pictures of the work being done on the Pearl City off-ramp on the H-1 Freeway, and provided the following updates: The State Department of Transportation (DOT) cancelled the H-1 Freeway overnight closure between Halawa and Pearl City set for January 23 and 24 because of rainy conditions. New signs will be put up giving the new closure dates. The new freeway lane will open in April.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1)       Chair Fukushima described the unmoving traffic on the H-1 on Friday and Saturday nights, because the lanes were narrowed to only four with no notice. Ishikawa will follow up.

2)       Alvin Toda asked if DOT has any plans to use the area under the freeway overpass. Ishikawa clarified that at the location where the church used to be, there will be a new DOT office, which may also help to keep the homeless away from the area.

3)       Chair Fukushima thanked Ishikawa for the installation of delineators in the Home Depot driveway, which prevents motorists from making illegal u-turns to avoid the traffic.

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE (HAFB) FUEL LINE CLEAN-UP – Rick McComb, a HAFB Civil Engineer, gave the following update: HAFB is working on the investigation of fuel line leaks. There are two current sites, ST18A and ST18B. Right now, they are working on the ST18A site (Public Storage, Home Depot, LCC area) to assess the extent of the leak in that area. ST18B (Lehua Avenue / Kamehameha Highway) is one month away from investigation, which will run from February 27 to March 17. The traffic in the area will be congested, although they will try to work counter-clockwise around the intersection to control traffic. There will be notices in the Sunday newspapers on February 19 and February 26.

Questions, comments and concerns:

1)       Chair Fukushima inquired when the work would be done. McComb replied that the work will be done during the day, since DOT requires a two-lane closure to work at night.

2)       Furutani asked if soil would be removed. McComb answered that they will remove, then contain the soil.

3)       Chair Fukushima inquired if they would be cleaning up the areas where, historically, contamination has occurred. McComb responded that they are just investigating right now, to find the extent of the leak, and later there could be a full removal, if necessary.

4)       Alvin Toda asked if they plan to reactivate the pipeline. McComb replied that there are no plans for reuse.

PEARL CITY WAL-MART / SAM'S CLUB GAS STATION CONSTRUCTION UPDATE – Boyd Schneider announced that Wal-Mart will be opening on January 31 at 9 a.m. They have a traffic management plan which includes 12 special duty police officers placed around the intersections, and they will remain there for at least 13 days after the opening. The two traffic lights in front of the store will be activated on Saturday, January 28. They are still awaiting approval for the other phases (Phases 2, 3 and 4).

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1)       Pickard noted the invitations that Wal-Mart sent to the Board members and asked if there was a contact phone number in addition to the email address. He also noted that Wal-Mart representatives promised the Board that the store would not be open 24 hours, but the newspaper article indicated that indeed they will be open 24 hours. Schneider replied to call 454-8785 and added that he is unaware of any past information given to the Board.

2)       Chair Fukushima asked that Schneider contact the Project Manager for updates on the Phase 2, 3 and 4 improvements. Schneider will follow up.

PUBLIC COMPLAINTS OF SPORTSMEN LOUNGE ACTIVITIES, 829 LEHUA AVENUE – Chair Fukushima circulated and gave a brief synopsis of a draft letter to the LIQ requesting they investigate and review the suitability of continuing to grant liquor licenses to the Sportsmen Lounge, with an attached letter from HPD noting all of the responses to the bar since November 15, 2001. Pickard recommended, on behalf of the HEW committee, that the Board send this letter to the LIQ, which was adopted unanimously, 9-0-0.

HONOLULU HIGH CAPACITY CORRIDOR PROJECT – Gary Omori, part of the Public Involvement Team with Pat Lee, distributed an anticipated timeline for the Alternative Analysis and Draft Environmental Impact Study:

·         October 2005 to January 2006 – Develop alternatives.

·         November/December 2005 to February 2006 – Public scoping.

·         January 2006 to August/September 2006 – Technical studies: conceptual design, financial analysis, cost estimation, traffic and transit ridership forecasting, and environmental studies.

·         February 2006 to October 2006 – Public information.

·         October 2006 – Issue Alternatives Analysis.

·         October 2006 to December 2006 – Public hearing.

·         December 2006 – Select locally preferred alternative.

·         January 2007 to May 2007 – Prepare Draft Environmental Impact Study.

For more information visit the website, www.honolulutransit.org or call 566-2299.

Chair Fukushima noted that the Board has submitted a request to be made a consultant party, since the transit corridor will pass through Pearl City and requested that Omori help the Board to go through the process. Omori assured that he will work with the Board on this. Chair Fukushima referred this item to the Traffic and Transportation (TT) Committee and he will give the contact information to Omori.

VOTER OWNED ELECTIONS (VOE) – Sean Uwaine circulated four handouts explaining what VOE are and introduced John Higgins. Higgins provided some background: VOE targets the system of big money special-interest campaign funding and enables qualified candidates to run for State office. In addition, it encourages increased participation in the political process by both candidates and voters. The program limits campaign spending, equalizes candidate funding, tightens campaign-law enforcement, and bans special-interest contributions to participating candidates. Candidates demonstrating sufficient community support can qualify for a competitive amount of funding from the Hawaii Election Campaign Fund, administered by the Campaign Spending Commission. This major overhaul of the campaign system is also called Comprehensive Public Funding, or in Arizona and Maine, where the system is functioning well, as Clean Elections. Basically VOE frees up legislators to get closer to the community by taking campaign money requirements out of the equation. In Arizona in 1998, 79% of all races were won by the candidate with the most money. In 2002, the percentage dropped to 2% and Janet Napolitano became the nation's first governor elected using public funding. Voter turnout in Arizona increased 24% from 1998 to 2002. For more information, go to www.voterownedhawaii.org.

THE CITY'S BUS SYSTEM – Herbert Pang expressed his concern that people sit or even lie down in the senior/handicapped section of the bus, which makes it very difficult for seniors/handicapped to catch a bus.

Chair Fukushima also relayed the concern over the City's plan to relocate the terminuses of routes #53 and #54 from Ala Moana Shopping Center to Alapai Street, which would be a hardship for seniors/handicapped to get to Ala Moana. Pang and Chair Fukushima remarked that the City should have given notice and allowed public input.

PEARL CITY HIGH SCHOOL (PCHS) SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM – Nyuha distributed copies of a letter from the teachers of the Special Education programs at PCHS and emphasized the following: The teachers want the Board to ask the City to change the bus route to accommodate the students with special needs. There are currently 18 students in the Community Based Instruction program who require varying degrees of assistance. Many of the students have physical, as well as mental challenges which make the long four-block walk from PCHS to the bus stop difficult and strenuous. There are students in wheelchairs, with asthma, heart conditions, seizure disorders, cancer and cerebral palsy. It takes one student 45 minutes to make the walk. There are also no ramps on which to enter or exit the sidewalk on the stretch of Hoomoana Street which forces staff to push the wheelchairs in the street. PCHS cannot afford to charter school buses for their weekly outings. They would like the Board and the City to consider placing a bus stop near the corner of Hookiekie Street and Waimano Home Road where the #73 route could stop. For more information, contact Connie Calantoc at 453-6511.

Chair Fukushima noted that this request came up last year, and the TT Committee referred it the Hub and Spoke program; consultants have not reported back to the committee yet. He referred the item back to the TT Committee for follow-up.

PRIVATE PARKING / STORAGE ON PUBLIC STREETS IN PACIFIC PALISADES – Jerry Fukida circulated a handout expressing his concern about people storing cars on the streets in Pacific Palisades. He suggested that citations should be issued for expired registrations and safety checks to create an economic reason for people not to store their cars on the streets.

Chair Fukushima referred this item to the TT Committee, and Fukida will attend the next Committees' meeting.

ELECTED OFFICIALS:             

GOVERNOR'S REPRESENTATIVE – Claire Nakamura distributed a book of the Governor's 2006 initiatives and information on ethanol and E-10 Unleaded gasoline and highlighted the following:

1)       Ethanol is an important component of today's gasoline. All gasoline-powered cars sold in the U.S. are designed to use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol, also known as E-10 Unleaded. Since ethanol can be made from many locally available materials, including agricultural products and even yard or wood waste, it can provide long-term energy diversity and energy security, using plentiful renewable resources. Cost-effective, reliable fuel supplies are essential for Hawaii's economy. Beginning April 2, 2006, gasoline in Hawaii will be required to contain 10% ethanol. Fuel marketers in Hawaii have already begun preparing for the transition to ensure availability. At least six ethanol production facilities are under development in Hawaii. E-10 Unleaded may not be used in airplanes. For more information, go to www.new-fuel.com.

2)       Regarding the clean-up of Waimano Ridge, DOH is concerned and is having the Solid Waste Branch check out the conditions of the site. Nakamura recognized Neal Sakamoto for his hard work to clean up the area. After they have approval to dispose of the vehicles, then they'll need a contract to remove them.

Pickard mentioned that recently patients escaped from the Mental Health Crisis Center and one patient tried to break into a house in the area. He requested that the HEW Committee be consulted the next time such a facility is to be put in an area. Pickard asked about the criteria for determining a suitable location. Nakamura will follow up and added that the Governor is very concerned about community input. Chair Fukushima requested that the Board be notified of these facilities and remarked that the previous administration used "privacy" to avoid giving the community notice of these facilities.

MAYOR’S REPRESENTATIVE – Isaac Hokama circulated the December and January Mayor's Newsletters and provided the following information:

1)       A traffic study was prepared for the Manana Wal-Mart store. Austin, Tsutsumi contracted Traffic Management Consultant Randy Okaneku to conduct the study. In addition, a traffic management plan will be prepared by Austin, Tsutsumi prior to the opening of the store. The management plan will outline the location and duties of special duty police officers and parking attendants, and generally how traffic will be managed and controlled on the surrounding City streets and in the Wal-Mart parking lot during and shortly after the grand opening. Contact Mike Oshiro for more information at 527-5031.

2)       The area of Moanalua Road from Waimano Home Road to Hoomalu Street is under State jurisdiction. A tree-trimming supervisor of the Division of Urban Forestry inspected the trees at that location and determined that the overgrown trees reside within private property. Therefore, maintenance responsibility rests with the property owner.

3)       The cleaning of the Pearl Harbor bike path is in progress.

4)       The Mayor's proposal for the anticipated increase of tax revenue (about $125 million) is to: (a) cut taxes by $40 million; (b) use $20 million to create a financial reserve; (c) use $16 million to increase debt payments by the City; (d) provide $10 million for the increase in fuel costs and to pay for salary increases; (e) provide $15 million for previously negotiated and approved salary increases for public safety employees (HPD, HFD, EMS); and (f) provide $24 million for previously negotiated and approved salary increases for other City increases.

Questions, comments and concerns followed (Hokama will follow up):                   

1)       Chair Fukushima was involved in the creation of the part of Moanalua Road from Waimano Home Road to Hoomalu Street, and revealed that the City paid for it, so it should be under their jurisdiction.

2)       Chair Fukushima stated that a contractor is supposed to come every two months to clear the overgrowth on the sidewalks of Waimano Home Road.

3)       Chair Fukushima received an email asking when the repairs to the Pearl City District Park Gym will be complete. The gym has been unavailable for use for four years; Pearl City teams play in Wahiawa on school nights.

4)       Anderton commented that some of the homeless have migrated from Blaisdell Park to the bike path and are now living in the bushes.

5)       Fukuda noted that the Board is constantly asking the City to take care of overgrown grass and asked if there is a schedule to maintain any grassy areas.

6)       Fukuda mentioned that the E Komo Mai Pearl City sign area has been maintained recently by three residents; Chair Fukushima indicated that DPR is supposed to maintain the area. Howton added that it is a matter of stewardship, and requested the Mayor be reminded of his desire to "maintain".

COUNCILMEMBER GARY OKINO – Robert Sato distributed a report and highlighted the following:

1)       Council is set to hear Bill 11 (2006), which would authorize HPD and the City Department of Customer Services (CSD) to tow vehicles that have expired registrations from public right-of-ways. The bill is scheduled for its first reading at the Council meeting on January 25.

2)       In response to growing concerns over increased property values and resultant increases in property tax assessments, the Budget Committee is holding a special meeting on January 26 at 9 a.m. to discuss a number of proposed tax relief bills. Included on the agenda are two broad-based tax relief bills introduced by Councilmember Okino. Bill 1 (2005) would increase the standard home exemption for owner occupants from $40,000 to $80,000; Councilmember Okino is now proposing to increase the exemption to $100,000. Bill 1 (2006) would provide a tax credit for the current year, equal to what Bill 1 (2005) seeks to establish. Councilmember Okino introduced this bill to provide immediate tax relief since the provisions of Bill 1 (2005), if passed, would not take effect until the 2007 tax year.

Pickard asked who raised the property tax. Sato explained that the tax rate didn't increase – it's the property assessment or value that increased.

SENATOR CLARENCE NISHIHARA – Bert Warashina circulated the Senator's Legislative Update.

REPRESENTATIVE ROY TAKUMI – Reid Seino distributed the report, which included synopses of the House Majority packages; the full text of the bills are available at www.capitol.hawaii.gov. He noted that Rep. Takumi continues to serve as the Chair of the House Education Committee, with hearings on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 2 to 9 p.m., in City Hall Room 309.

REPRESENTATIVE K. MARK TAKAI – Kendall Matsuyoshi circulated the newsletter and a letter dated January 6 to Dr. Chiyome Fukino of DOH. He pointed out that the letter asked for another community meeting regarding the updated Waimano Ridge Master Plan and expressed displeasure at the lack of proper notification.

Chair Fukushima requested that the consultant team of the Waimano Ridge Master Plan project give the minutes of the last meetings to the legislature.

COMMUNITY INPUT:                

PEARL CITY FOUNDATION – Breene Harimoto reported that there was a community meeting in November regarding the proposed Pearl City Senior Day Health Center (to replace Momilani Community Center); the meeting was productive and he will make a formal presentation to the Board when they apply for the permit.

PEARL CITY COMMUNITY YOUTH (PCCY) – Brandon Fujimura, PCCY Board President, introduced Brett Bulseco, the PCCY Executive Director. Bulseco mentioned a new program to bring college preparation courses to students over the spring to get students prepared for classes such as carpentry, etc. They are also looking at other desired programs.

APPROVAL OF THE JULY 26, 2005 AND NOVEMBER 22, 2005 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES: Chair Fukushima indicated that approval of the July 2005 minutes will be deferred another month, pending its completion.

The following corrections were made to the November 22, 2005 minutes:

*         Page 7 – Elected Officials – Governor's representative – item no. 5 – strike out "federal" between "$935,000 from the" and "'rainy day fund'", and insert "State".

*         Page 9 – Councilmember Gary Okino – item no. 4 – strike out "Council" between "No. 05-377" and "Draft 1" and insert "Committee".

*         Page 9 – Community Input – Pacific Palisades Community Association – last sentence – strike out "Iki" between "Stan" and "serving" and insert "Uecke".

Vina moved, and Howton seconded, to approve the November 22, 2005 minutes, as corrected, which was adopted unanimously, 9-0-0.

The Board recessed in December.

NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER 2005 TREASURER'S REPORTS: Treasurer Howton reported that the Board is efficiently managing its money. In November the Operating Account incurred expenses of $158.54, leaving a balance of $946.76; the Publicity Account incurred expenses of $382, leaving a balance of $1,159.38; and the Refreshment Account incurred no expenses, leaving a balance of $110.64. In December, the Operating Account incurred expenses of $30.74, leaving a balance of $916.02; the Publicity Account incurred no expenses, leaving a balance of $1,159.38, and the Refreshment Account incurred no expenses, leaving a balance of $110.64. The Treasurer's Reports were filed.

COMMITTEE REFERRALS FOR ACTION/DEFERRAL:

EXECUTIVE – CITY CHARTER AMENDMENTS RELATING TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD SYSTEM:  Chair Fukushima announced that the Charter Commission met today, January 24, to act on proposals no. 24 and no. 25 (to clarify the powers, duties and functions of the Neighborhood Commission and to clarify and establish the relationship of the Neighborhood Commission to the Executive Secretary); he will report more information at the next meeting.

HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE (HEW) – Committee Chair Pickard relayed the following updates:

1)       Hawaii Regional Biosafety Lab Task Force – There will be no update until the draft EA is done.

2)       Waimano Ridge, Necessity to Clean Up State Lands – A letter was received from the Governor and the issue was in the news. Neal Sakamoto, of PSD, will monitor the clean-up. DOH is the only agency there that has responded to the clean-up request. Chair Fukushima wrote a draft response letter, which Neighborhood Assistant (NA) Glanstein passed out to the Board. Unanimous consent (9-0-0) was used to send the draft response letter to DAGS.

TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION (TT) – The following updates were provided:

1)       Wal-Mart/Sam's Club Community Shuttle Service – NA Glanstein dispersed copies of a draft letter to the Wal-Mart regarding a possible mini bus shuttle service. Committee Vice-Chair Vina moved to send the letter to the manager of Wal-Mart. Discussion ensued about possible changes to the letter; it was offered that the motion could be voted down to address the concerns brought up after the committee meeting. The motion to send the letter to the manager of Wal-Mart was not adopted, 6-3-0 (Aye: Fukushima, Furutani, Howton, Nyuha, Pickard, Vina; No: Anderton, Duncan, Fukuda).

2)       Ratification of Favorable Recommendation for Aiea Transit Center, Primary Urban Center Public Infrastructure Map Revision – Chair Fukushima provided copies of a memo he sent to DPP regarding the infrastructure map revision to the Aiea Transit Center. He turned the gavel over to Vice-Chair Pickard so he could move to ratify this action. Fukushima moved to ratify the memo that he sent to DPP regarding the infrastructure map revision to the Aiea Transit Center, which was adopted unanimously, 9-0-0. Vice-Chair Pickard turned the gavel back over to Chair Fukushima.

DEVELOPMENT, PLANNING AND ZONING (DPZ) – Committee Chair Vina submitted a status report and gave the following updates:

1)       Absence of Landscaped Front Yard Areas along Kamehameha Highway – He provided DPP with photos of possible violation for landscaping fronting commercial property. A cover letter and photo were sent on November 15, 2005; he is still awaiting an inspection report from DPP.

2)       Koa Ridge, Environmental Impact Study (EIS) Preparation Notice, Consulted Party Request for Revised Draft EIS – More information will be available after Castle and Cooke finish the EIS preparation.

LEGISLATIVE AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS (LCIP) – Chair Fukushima deferred this item to the February committee meeting.

PUBLICITY/REFRESHMENTS (P/R) – Chair Fukushima deferred this item to the February committee meeting.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

1)       Next Committee Meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, February 21, 2006, 7 p.m., Highlands Intermediate School.

2)       Next Regular Board Meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2006, 6:30 p.m., Highlands Intermediate School.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 10:04 p.m.

Submitted by:               

Rachel M. Glanstein

Neighborhood Assistant