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PEARL CITY NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING

TUESDAY, JUNE 26, 2007

HIGHLANDS INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL CAFETERIA

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Pro tem Al Coleman called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. with a quorum of 11 members present, and led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Stanley Ching, Al Coleman, Solray Duncan, Albert Fukushima, Kevin Furutani, David Howton, Myrtle Nuyha, James Pickard, Davin Takahashi, May Imamura-Uruu, Larry Veray, Cruz Vina, Jr.

MEMBERS ABSENT: Amoreena Rabago.

GUESTS: Wallace Minato, Silvestre Ulep (City and County of Honolulu), Kathy Yoda, Isaac Hokama (Office of the Mayor/ Mayor’s Representative), Sgt. K. Miyazaki and Officer D. Cavaco (Honolulu Police Department-District 5, Pearl City), Michael Lum, Bryce Koenki, Mildred Medlin (A-American Self Storage), Chris and Stacie Koga, Captain Derek Foglesong (Honolulu Fire Department-Waiau), Ashley Deguchi (Punsy), Jared Wong, Stuart Wong, Ross Tanimoto, Athan Adachi, and Clay Yamada (City Department of Environmental Services), Robert Saito (Councilmember Gary Okino’s Office), Richard Chun, Laurence Lau (State Department of Health), Senator Clarence Nishihara, Gary K. Omori (HHCTCP), Roger Olegario, Mark Lane (Leeward Community College), Nola Frank (Neighborhood Commission Office Staff).

ADMINISTERING OF OATH OF OFFICE TO BOARD MEMBERS NOT INSTALLED AT THE JUNE 2, 2007 CEREMONIES – Neighborhood Assistant Frank administered the oath of office to Board member David Howton.

ELECTION OF PERMANENT CHAIR FOR 2007-2008 TERM OF OFFICE: Nominations for the election of Board Officers was taken at the Committee Meeting: Chair – Albert Fukushima, Vice Chair – James Pickard, Sr., Secretary – Cruz Vina, Jr., Sergeant-At-Arms – Al Coleman, and Parliamentarian – Cruz Vina, Jr.

Nuyha moved, and Furutani seconded, to elect the new slate of officers, which was adopted by unanimous consent: Chair – Albert Fukushima; Vice Chair – James Pickard, Sr.; Secretary – Cruz Vina, Jr.; Sergeant-at-Arms – Al Coleman; and Parliamentarian – Cruz Vina, Jr.

Chair Pro tem Coleman relinquished the gavel to Chair Fukushima.

ADOPTION OF TIME LIMIT POLICY AND PROCEDURES FOR INPUT, COMMENTS, RESPONSES AND PRESENTATION OF AGENDA ITEMS; DISTRIBUTION OF INFORMATION FOR ACTION AT REGULAR BOARD MEETINGS SHALL BE MADE AT A PRIOR COMMITTEE MEETING: Chair Fukushima summarized the time limit policy as follows – ONE minute for comments; THREE minutes for reports; FIVE minutes for presentations already given at the Committee Meeting, TEN minutes for new presentations, ONE minute for comments/questions/responses’ recognition from the Chair is required to speak; microphones should be used when speaking; all cell phones should be turned off or put in “silent” mode. Chair Fukushima asked government representatives to please limit their oral reports to one subject matter.

Cruz called a point of order stating that the election of a treasurer is yet to be decided. Chair continued on to the next agenda item.

DETERMINATION OF COMMITTEE AND REGULAR BOARD MEETING DATES, LOCATION, TIMES AND RECESSES: Without objection, the Board will continue to meet at Highlands Intermediate School; Regular Meetings will be held at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month, Committee meetings the third Tuesday of the month at  7:00 p.m.; and recess in December.

RULES, REGULATIONS AND POLICIES FOR USE OF HIGHLANDS INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL CAMPUS AND CAFETERIA: Chair Fukushima reminded everyone that smoking is not allowed on the school campus grounds.

EMERGENCY AGENCY REPORTS:

Honolulu Fire Department – Captain Foglesong reported:

1. May 2007 statistics (Pearl City/Waiau) included fires – 6 structure, 8 brush, 7 rubbish and 2 vehicle emergency response calls – 172 medical, 7 search/rescue, 8 miscellaneous, and 1 major incident with 7 companies responding.

2. Fire Safety Tip: 1) With brush fire season upon us, remember to maintain a 30-foot wide clearing in between any structure and vegetation. Recent rains may have caused overgrown vegetation in some breaks. 2) Independence Day is just around the corner, so consider leaving fireworks to the professionals and enjoy one of the many fireworks displays around town. If you use fireworks, follow warnings and instructions. Young children should never be given fireworks. Older children should only use fireworks under the direct supervision of an adult. Have a happy and safe Independence Day celebration.

Questions, comments, concerns followed: Regarding fireworks permits, the retailers have the permits at this time. HPD has not yet been told that a permit would be need for Fourth of July fireworks.

Honolulu Police Department – Sgt. Miyazaki reported statistics for the month of May included 1,716 calls for service, 23.23 percent of the 7, 378 District 3 calls.

Questions, comments, concerns: Veray reported racing on the H-1 Freeway from Kaahumanu Street from 2:00 to 3:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. Follow-up will be done.

PRESENTATIONS:

Awarding of Certificates of Recognition and Acknowledgements: Publicity/Refreshments (P/R) Committee Chair Imamura-Uruu presented Certificates of Appreciation to the following:

1. Yard-of-the Month Winner June 2007 - Wally and Jean Minato of Pacific Palisades.

2. $1,000 Citizenship Award and Pearl City Charger Pride Award Stayson Isobe.

3. $2,000 Foodland Shop for Education Scholarship; $1,000 Hawaii USA Credit Union Scholarship - Kelsey Kaneshiro. 

4. $2,000 Foodland Shop for Higher Education Scholarship; 1,000 Hawaii USA Scholarship; 500 Lions Scholarship: $3,500+$300 Santo Scholarship (total $3,800) - Veah Tapat.

5. $2,000 Foodland Shop Higher Education; $1,000 H.G.E.A. Scholarship; $1,000 Lions Club Scholarship; 500 Mufi Hannemann Athletic Scholarship Rilfery Award (total $4,500) - Jolana Gollero.

6. His Mentor, Pearl City Football Coach - Mel Bicoy.

7. State Judo Medal Champions, 4^th State Championship in 5 years, 114 pound weight category (Pearl City High School’s Most Outstanding Wrestler and Most Improved Judo Award) - Bill Takeuchi (junior).

8. Three Time State Gold Medal Champion, second judoka to win three state championships (198 pounds) - Christian Pavo (junior).

9. State Gold Medal Winner, Pearl City High School’s Most Dedicated Judo Award (220 pound) - Andy Toyama (junior).

10. State Gold Medal Champion (275 pounds) - Tyler Lauifi (junior).

11. Ivan Yoshimura and Pearl City High School Judo Team – Head Coaches.

12. Robin Puahala – Head Coach Pearl City High School Judo Team

13. Bryce Kozuki – Pearl City resident for winning $5,000 Rotary Scholarship from Roosevelt High School, will be attending UCLA.

14. Hawaii’s Junior Miss winner, Roosevelt High School Valedictorian, $5,000 Rotary and $5,000 Jr. Miss Scholarship - Kaitlin Koga.

15. Honolulu Community college Graduate gave the Student Commencement Address as part of the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard Apprentice Degree Recipient - Ashley Deguchi

16.  “Official Spokesman for the UH-Manoa”, Appointed Director of Communications UH-Manoa, has 33 years of experience with Senator Inouye, KHON2, and UH School of Medicine and now oversees 25,000 students, faculty members on this 100^th year of the UH - Gregg Takayama.

Rescinding the EPA Variance for Secondary Treatment of Effluent for Sand Island and Honouliuli Wastewater Treatment Plants: Ross Tanimoto reported that the City along with U.S. Senator Inouye are working to convince the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to reverse its position on the City’s Honouliuli Wastewater Treatment Plant. The EPA has issued a tentative denial of a 301(h) waiver from federal requirements that the plant provide secondary treatment to all of the wastewater it treats and then discharges into the ocean almost two miles offshore, at a depth of 200 feet. Upgrading the Honouliuli plant to full secondary treatment will cost $400 million which would be better spent on the collections system.

Questions, comments, concerns followed:

1. Chair Fukushima asked if the City complies, what is the impact to the taxpayers? Tanimoto replied the cost for the Honouliuli plant would be $400 million from Capital Improvement Project (CIP) funds and $800 million for the Sand Island plant. Cost to customers could increase up to $300 per month. Chair Fukushima added if the City is within the guidelines why should the waiver be denied; and is there any way for the City to obtain grants. Tanimoto responded the City could get grants but not for amounts needed.

2. Howton asked what the possibility is for the EPA to continue waivers. Tanimoto answered he did not know.

3. Takahashi asked the timeline for all sewerline repairs. Tanimoto replied there is 2,000 miles of ground pipe and the City is anticipating a twenty year plus duration.

4. Furutani believes EPA’s concern is bacteria levels from the waste water. Tanimoto said concern is the levels around the outfall, but that is two miles off-shore and 200 feet deep.

5. Howton suggested that the City sell bonds. The response was that the bank may be a cheaper way to go.

Goodyear Tire Center Development Updates Kamehameha Highway, Waiau: There was no representative present. Chair Fukushima will follow up.

Chair Fukushima announced that the Board has decided not to break for refreshments during the meeting; instead, everyone was invited to partake of the refreshments at their will.

COMMUNITY REPORTS:

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Yoneda reported:

1. There were no water main breaks in May 2007.

2. BWS has been investing millions of dollars annually on pro-active infrastructure project to help insure reliable water service and to effectively minimize water loss and service disruptions. They have been proactively repairing and replacing aging water mains and facilities. One of the newest ways this is being done is by GPS or Global Positioning System technology. Phase 1 of the project was just completed, in which workers from Wolper incorporated went out to Mililani, Waikele, Waipahu, Pearl City, and Aiea with the stat-of-the-art equipment to map the exact location of the water meters, valves, and hydrants using satellite data. Having these updated locations increases the accuracy of BWS records, as they can now tell where the facilities are within a few feet of where they are on the maps.

3. Water Safety Tips: (a) When installing a drip irrigation system, don’t exceed 200 feet of poly tubing from valve to end cap. Don’t exceed a total flow of 200 gallons per hour per valve. (b) We’re more likely to notice leaky faucets indoors, but don’t forget to check outdoor faucets, pipes, and hoses for leaks.

Questions, comments, concerns:

1. Pickard raised a safety concern of there being no fire hydrants on Waiawa Road where six or more houses are located. Follow-up will be done.

2. Fukushima asked the start date relative to the water improvements for Pearl City (Hoolaulea Street and Waimano Home Road). Yoneda replied the project started on April 2, 2007, has 330 calendar days. Pearl City is part of Phase 3.

3. Chair Fukushima asked Yoneda and Mayor’s Representative Hokama if information pertaining to the increase in water rates could be provided for the Board members. Both answered yes.

Leeward Community College (LCC) – Mark Lane reported:

1. Summer Session concludes its first two six-week summer session on Friday, June 29^th. Dates for the second summer session are from July 2^nd through August 10^th. Fall Semester for LCC and the rest of the UH system begins on August 20^th.

2. LCC and the entire UH system was supported generously by 2007 State Legislature. LCC will receive an additional 22 faculty and staff positions and $1.5 million in operating budget support. These positions will support initiatives at LCC-Waianae, Institutional Research, Job Placement, and Native Hawaiian Programs.

3. Capital Budget – In addition to the operating budget support, LCC is partnering with Kapiolani Community College to bring a Nursing Program to the College in fall 2007. To support this effort the Legislature appropriated capital improvement funds of $1.5 million to support nursing facilities on campus. LCC wishes to thank their local state legislators, the Pearl City Neighborhood Board and the community for their generous support of the college.

4. Second Access Road: LCC has responded to the State Department of Transportation's (DOT) draft Environmental Assessment report by the June 22^nd deadline. A copy of LCC’s response will be part of this community report. LCC supports Alternative 1 or Sub-Alternative 1a. Mark Lane is the point of contact at LCC on the Second Access Road and will keep the Pearl City Neighborhood Board apprised of any future developments regarding this project.

Questions, comments, concerns: Vina asked what the report expectations are from LCC. Lane responded it involves the jurisdiction between DOT and the City Department of Transportation Services (DTS). There are four alternative options for the proposed second access road that will be a mile long. Once the DOT completes the EA it will under the jurisdiction of DTS and LCC. The latest assessment for the roadway is approximately $17 million. Chair Fukushima asked that Lane coordinate with the Board, any reports that the board could incorporate for public support or action regarding this Second Access Road.

Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) – Board member Pickard received a letter of response from Les Chang, Director of the City Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) to the Board request for a DPR representative to attend the monthly meetings. Pickard noted Harold Duran was used to attend this Board’s meeting.

Pearl City Library – There was no representative present.

Board of Education (BOE) – The monthly BOE Highlights was available for interested persons to review.

RESIDENTS’ CONCERNS (1):

Pearl City Area Parks and Recreation Projects – There were no updates given.

Pearl City Wal-Mart/Sam’s Club Gas Station/Construction Update – Chair Fukushima reported Sam’s Club is trying to post bond for road improvements for the gas station next to the Manana Community Park. Sam’s Club's plans are to clean and fence the area across from the Manana Villages Center. The Starbucks/Jamba Juice building has been turned over to the vendor. Pickard reported the re-striping of Kuala Street/Moanalua Road Ewa-bound will be completed with Phase 2. Chair Fukushima noted the next phase will include the gas station.

Other Issues:

State Department of Transportation (DOT) – Scott Ishikawa reported an email was received yesterday from a condominium owner on Waiawa Road, regarding an easement to the condominium. The owner approached the City, and the State checked the tax map and found out that Waiawa Road is privately owned. A map will be emailed to the condominium owner. Follow-up information and the map will be forwarded to the Board Chair. Photo handouts relating to the repaving on Kamehameha Highway town-bound fronting Home Depot were circulated.

ELECTED OFFICIALS AND/OR THEIR DESIGNATED REPRESENTATIVE (1):

Governor’s Representative – Scott Ishikawa circulated the Governor’s monthly update and noted: There is $1.3 million left in the maintenance budget. A request for a road maintenance contract will be submitted to do short stretch road upgrading. Work of the pouring of concrete on the H-1 viaduct will be done Sunday though Thursday nights from 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m., with one to two lane closures in one direction at a time. Fast-form concrete will be poured to fill the potholes, which takes three to four hours to dry. Repaving on Nimitz Highway has been completed with the repaving of Ala Moana Boulevard starting this August.

Questions, comments, concerns followed:

1. Follow up will be done regarding the viaduct starting down near the Veterans Club, to test the different types of concrete. First area to be done will be Hickam town bound, then the Pearl City viaduct.

2. Pickard asked if something could be done regarding the striping fronting Sam’s Club on Kamehameha Highway, due to vehicles making u-turns in the Home Depot parking lot to beat the stoplight. Delineators have been put up. Follow-up will be done. Pickard said that the left turn is too short for 18 wheel trucks heading to the Pearl City Industrial area to maneuver the turn. Ishikawa will also check with HPD if it is illegal to turn around in the Home Depot parking lot. Veray suggested two left turn lanes from the Waimalu direction into Sam’s Club. Coleman added it is a safety issue for Home Depot customer liability.

3. Relative to the Bottle Bill, Furutani wanted to know what is happening to the one cent that was added. Follow-up will be done. Lau replied that the one cent is a container fee being in put in a special fund to pay for the program. The five cents is put back into recycling centers for payout. Any unredeemed part of the five cents remains in the special fund which helps to fund the operation and are limited to those purposes.

4. In response to Furutani and tax increases, the tax refund bill was signed by Governor Lingle today. Gas prices will be dropping on Sunday.

Mayor’s Representative – Isaac Hokama circulated the monthly News Report and a notice of a July 14 meeting on the Transit Oriented Development at LCC Theatre from 8:30 a.m. to noon. He relayed the following responses:

1. The intersection of Kamehameha Highway and Acacia Road falls under the jurisdiction of DOT and DTS will forward the concern to them. Response from HPD – Eastbound vehicles on Kamehameha Highway that drive through the Home Depot parking log, as means of traveling to Acacia Road, are in violation of ROH Section 15-8-6- cutting corners. Police will monitor the intersection and take enforcement action. Home Depot can assist by doing something in their parking lot to impede the maneuver. The traffic light is controlled by an embedded roadway sensor. If there is no traffic in the left turn lane (Kamehameha Highway eastbound at Acacia), the left turn green light lasts for two to four seconds. If there is traffic, the light lasts 30-46 seconds.

2. Regarding no traffic signs at the intersection of Waimano Home Road and Noelani Street and Hekaha Street and Moanalua Road, DTS will investigate, along with the concerns regarding faded traffic signs on Waimano Home Road at Noelani Street and “Do Not Block Intersection” signs on Moanalua Road at Hekaha Street. DTS will report back at the July meeting. Contact person is Kelly Cruz at 768-8320.

3. Trees along Waimano Home Road – There are no trees under DPR's Division of Urban Forestry’s (DUF) maintenance that are growing into the utility lines. DUF found several trees in the utility lines; an unauthorized planting in the City right-of-way and trees on the school property within a fenced area that appears to belong to Hawaiian Electric Company. A more definitive determination is not possible without an address or more specific location description.

4. The mango leaves and fruits that were on the sidewalk and gutter area on Kuala Street mauka of the Manana District Park were cleaned. Road maintenance will continue to monitor this area as needed. The private property owner needs to address the debris issue.

5. A contractor is responsible to clean the area from the bike path line to one foot past sidewalk at Manana Community Park. DPR will inform the contractor of the problem.

6. Regarding the request to have Mr. Doran of DPR give reports at board meeting, Hokama will speak with DPR Director Les Chang.

7. Bus stop across from Trinity Union Church at the intersection of Komo Mai Drive and Waimano Home Road –DTS reported that a work order has been issued to the City’s contractor for TheBus, Oahu Transit Services, to clean the bus shelter and graffiti.

8. Regarding the concern that was raised about re-striping needed on Moanalua Road right at the Pearl City exit from the H-1 westbound has been referred to DOT.

9. Regarding Waimano Home Road, mauka bound, left-turn traffic signal onto Noelani Street malfunctioning, DTS checked the left turn signal and found them to be working properly. Should there be any further problems, contact DTS at 768-8387.

Questions, comments, concerns:

1. Pickard requested a copy of ROH Sec. 15-8-6.

2. Safety concern was expressed regarding speeding on Hekaha Street to Moanalua Road.

Councilmember Gary Okino – Robert Sato distributed 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. For more information log on to: www.honolulu.gov/budget/taxcredit2008.pdf.

2. Resolution 07-80, CD1, establishes the Real Property Tax rates for the Fiscal Year 2008.

3. Bill 48 (2007) addresses the issue to increase from 10 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 (emergency vehicle access). On June 21^st the bill was reported out of the Transportation and Public Works Committee for Second Reading and Public Hearing. DTS objects because of the 12 foot implementation. Community input is welcome. Three more meeting will be held before the bill is approved. The public hearing is scheduled for July 5^th, 2:30 p.m. at Honolulu Hale. Chair Fukushima referred Bill 48 to the board’s Transportation Committee.

RESIDENTS’ CONCERNS (2):

A-American Self Storage – Mildred Medlin from A-American Self Storage, located on Kuahao Street expressed concern for the company being cited for promotional signs posted on private property with approval from the owner. She mentioned that she was approached by board member Vina informing her that the signage was illegal. Medlin explained that the signs are only displayed during the day hours and asked if it's permitted. Chair Fukushima said that a permit is required. Pickard mentioned that any sign placed on state or county property is illegal, a permit must be issued, and the sign may be put out on Friday and removed on Sunday. Permit applications. A permit is needed for commercial signage or the City has the right to remove the sign. Medlin reiterated that the property owner gave their permission. Chair Fukushima noted permission from the owners as well as City’s approval is needed. Pickard commented without a permit there is a $100 daily fine. He offered to assist Medlin.

ELECTED OFFICIALS AND/OR THEIR DESIGNATED REPRESENTATIVE:

Senator Clarence Nishihara – Senator Nishihara reported: The Filipino Book Project has delivered books to 10 different locations in the Philippines. Discussed with the Pearl City Library Head Librarian was $520,000 for parking extension and over $400,000 for a handicapped restroom. The second access road is the best bet with the City’s plan for mass transit. Governor Lingle is thinking to veto HB 1830, relating to child protection. The City inspected the termite damage trees on Palamoi Street. Friends of the Library Annual Book Sale, McKinley High School, June 28 through July 8.

Question, comments, concerns:

1. Regarding an email received, Vina noted the preferred route is most beneficial.

2. Regarding the child protection bill, Coleman relayed consideration should be given to vetoing the bill because it cuts out the family as a whole. The child would be place with the State. He stated what if the father wants the child. He asked consideration of the Senator to veto the bill if the Governor does not.

There were no representatives present for Senator David Ige or Representative Roy Takumi. Rep. K. Mark Takai was unable to attend the meeting due to military service.

COMMUNITY INPUT:

There were no representatives present for the Pearl City Community Association, the Manana Community Association, the Pacific Palisades Community Association or the Pearl City Foundation.

APPROVAL OF MAY 23, JUNE 27, JULY 25 AND NOVEMBER 28, 2006, JANUARY 23, FEBRUARY 27, MARCH 27, APRIL 24, AMD MAY 22, 2007 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES: Chair Fukushima asked Board member to review the past minutes for approval at the July meeting.

ACCEPTANCE OF MAY 2007 TREASURER’S REPORT: The treasurer’s report will be filed subject to audit.

COMMITTEE REFERRALS FOR ACTION/DEFERRAL:

EXECUTIVE:

Board Committees:

v      Executive (EXEC) – Fukushima; Pickard; Cruz, Coleman; Treasurer and Committee Chairs

v      Development Plan and Zoning (DPZ): Kevin Furutani, Acting Chair; Stanley Ching, Acting Vice Chair; Davin Takahashi; Cruz Vina, Jr.

v      Legislative and Capitol Improvement Programs (LCIP): Amoreena Rabago, Acting Chair; Myrtle Nyuha, Acting Vice Chair; Solray Duncan; Coleman; Cruz.

v      Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW): James Pickard, Sr., Acting Chair, Larry Veray, Acting Vice Chair; Al Coleman; Rabago; Takahashi; Cruz.

v      Traffic and Transportation (TT): Cruz Vina, Jr., Acting Chair; Al Coleman, Acting Vice Chair; Furutani; Duncan; Pickard.

v      Publicity and Refreshments (P/R): May Imamura-Uruu, Acting Chair; Solray Duncan, Acting Vice Chair; Al Coleman; Kevin; Furutani; Amoreena Rabago; Larry Veray, Cruz Vina, Jr., Myrtle Nuyha.

Permitted Interaction Group Assignments:

v      Board of Education – Kimo Pickard, May Imamura-Uruu, Al Coleman.

v      Board of Parks & Recreation – KImo Pickard, Cruz Vina, Jr., David Howton, Davin Takahashi.

v      Central Oahu Restoration Advisory Board – Kevin Furutani, Al Coleman, Stanley Ching, Cruz Vina, Jr., Kimo Pickard.

v      C&C Mass Transit Meetings – Vin Cruz, Jr., Solray Duncan, al Coleman, Kimo Pickard, Amoreena Rabago.

v      City Council Meetings – Albert Fukushima, Solray Duncan, Cruz Vina, Jr., Kimo Pickard, Larry Veray, Myrtle, Nuyha.

v      Kamehameha Highway Task Force – Cruz Vina, Jr., Kimo Pickard, Davin Takahashi, Kevin Furutani, Amoreena Rabago.

v      LCC Second Access Road (Ad-Hoc) – Committee – Cruz Vina, Jr., Al Coleman, Stanley Ching, Kevin Furutani.

v      Neighborhood Board Review Task Force – Amoreena Rabago, Myrtle Nuyha, Larry Veray, Cruz Vina, Jr.

v      Neighborhood Commission – Amoreena Rabago, Myrtle Nuyha, Larry Veray, Cruz Vina, Jr.

v      Planning Commission – Albert Fukushima, Al Coleman, Stanley Ching, Cruz Vina, Jr.

v      State Land Use Commission - Albert Fukushima, Al Coleman, Larry Veray, Cruz Vina, Jr.

v      State DOT Dewatering Facility - Davin Takahashi, Kimo Pickard, Cruz Vina, Jr., Amoreena Rabago.

v      State Legislature - Amoreena Rabago, Cruz Vina, Jr., Myrtle Nuyha, Larry Veray, Albert Fukushima.

v      Sunshine Law - Amoreena Rabago, Cruz Vina, Jr., Myrtle Nuyha, Larry Veray, Albert Fukushima.

v      2050 State Sustainability Task Force - Kevin Furutani, Myrtle Nuyha, Al Coleman, Amoreena Rabago.

v      Waimano Ridge Master Plan Task Force - Kevin Furutani, Kimo Pickard, Cruz Vina, Jr, Myrtle Nuyha, Amoreena Rabago, Davin Takahashi.

FY 2008 Board and Committee Goals and Objectives – Chair Fukushima asked that each committee set objectives and Board goals.

HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE (HEW): Acting Chair Pickard requested that the items Lehua Avenue Bars and `Olelo Channel 49 Continued Use for Public and Community Telecasting of Activities be removed from the agenda. He also sent a letter of request to the Mayor regarding fence replacement at Manana Park indicating that according to Council there are no appropriations this year for this project.

Manana Community Park (CIP funding for 20 additional parking stalls) – Due to no appropriations approved by the Council this year, Pickard asked that this item be removed from the agenda.

Monthly Representation by Department of Parks and Recreation for Reports at Regular Board Meetings – Mayor’s representative Hokama will have a response next month.

Draft 4-Year Plan on Aging, Department of Community Services – Pickard asked that this item be removed from the committee until further information is received from Debbie Morikawa.

TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION (TT): Without objections the agenda was taken out of order to Honolulu High-Capacity Transit Corridor Project Update.

Honolulu High-Capacity Transit Corridor (HHCTC) Project Update – Gary Omori reported during the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) comment period, 104 comment submissions were received via mail, the website, and the scoping meetings.

1. Comments were received that the purpose and need statement should be expanded to address traffic congestion and highway capacity for private automobiles. The HHCTC project is evaluating one aspect of island-wide transportation needs in coordination with the Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO), which is responsible for integrated transportation. Several comments were received on which portion of the Locally Preferred Alternative should be constructed first. The most frequent suggestion was that the airport alignment should be considered as opposed to the Salt Lake Boulevard alignment. In response to this comment, a third build alternative is being added to the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) that evaluates the airport alignment exclusively. Suggestions also were made to construct the sections to UH Manoa and Waikiki prior to other portions of the corridor. Both UH Manoa and Waikiki service are included in all fixed guideway alternatives that will be evaluated in the EIS. Comments relating to station location, design, and community integration will be considered during preliminary engineering and their environment effects addressed in the EIS. These comments include such issues as parking availability, station access, and bus transfer facilities. Comments were received in favor of monorail, light rail, and rapid rail. Selecting a technology that allows for a narrow low-profile guideway was suggested. No information was received that would eliminate one or more of the transit technologies currently under consideration. Several comments suggested policy changes related to the relocation of jobs at the University of Hawaii, limiting car ownership, changing development patterns through tax incentives, restricting parking, mandating carpools, and congestion pricing, requiring all students to bus to school, restricting deliveries to nighttime hours, and limiting the number of people who may move to Oahu.

2. Several comments suggested shifting the Waianae end of the corridor into Ewa, extending the First Project further Waianae by one additional station also was suggested. This will be considered during preliminary engineering if a funding source is identified to provide the additional station and guideway.

3. Aesthetics and views were widely mentioned, including the effects of an elevated system, impacts on trees, and effects on the visual environment. Other concerns were raised about construction impacts and project phasing, noise impacts, right-of-way requirements and displacements, economic impacts, air quality, community connectivity, energy consumption and conservation options, emergency services and public safety, services to elderly and disadvantaged populations, natural resources, natural hazards, effects on land use and zoning, utility relocations, maintenance of traffic, and impacts to parks and recreational facilities. The identified topics of concern will all be evaluated in the EIS.

4. Comments on transit technologies for the Fixed Guideway Alternatives (Alternatives 2 and 3) were reviewed; however, no information was received that would eliminate one or more of the transit technologies currently under consideration.

5. Comments received on the scope of the environmental analysis included concerns about such topics as noise, environmental justice, visual impacts, natural resources, energy, and displacements. The EIS will evaluate the effects of each alternative on each of the elements of the environment listed in the Comments Related to Scope analysis section in Chapter 5 of this report.

Questions, comments, concerns followed: Chair Fukushima asked if the Board could be contacted if future meetings are held. Omori replied there is no meeting scheduled yet. However, the Alternative Analysis contract expires at the end of June 2007. But Omori said he will continue to attend the Board meetings.

The agenda order resumed.

OMPO Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) Report – Cruz reported the topic of discussion at the CAC meeting pertained to how DOT designs roads; construction plans when it comes to designed aspects. The new OMPO Chair is Carol Charles and new Vice Chair is Joe Magaldi.

Installation of Crosswalks (Waimanu Home Road in vicinity of Pearl City Shopping Center – Pickard asked if it's okay to cross at an intersection without marked crosswalks or if that would be considered jaywalking.

H-1 Westbound (Waiau Off-ramp) and Moanalua Road (ewa-bound) Merging Traffic Conflicts – The Board is waiting for the response.

Home Depot Traffic Concerns at Kamehameha Highway Entrance – Without objections the Board agreed that the committee send a letter to DTS and DOT with the committee’s recommendations requesting for review of the intersection and entrance.

LCC Second Access Road – Discussed earlier in the meeting with Lane agreeing to keep the Board updated.

DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND ZONING (DPZ):

Waimano DOH Medical/Bio-Safety Laboratory Level 3 Adequacy Certification (Community Site Visit with Waimano Ridge Master Plan Task Force) – Larry Lau reported this matter was discussed at the Task Force meeting in April. He believes all areas have been notified and the start of the 90-day timeframe..

Question, comments, concerns followed:

1. Pickard said he knows that the project was approved and money allocated. Lau replied he thinks Pickard is referring to DSL 3, in which a few thousand dollars has been allocated for the master plan in certification from reviews.

2. Last session one permanent status position was filled. He asked if the Board would like to tour the Waimano Campus.

3. The next Task Force meeting will be held on July 11, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. Chair Fukushima replied either him or the second facilities person will be attending the meeting.

4. Chair Fukushima commented that this issue has been discussed since the beginning of the year and the process to inform the community. He asked could the funding be released now or is it in the process. Lau answered that money is not the problem, there are two different issues. They are following the legislative requirement. The project does not require approval just notification and the Board was approached.

5. Furutani mentioned regarding prior funding, is it in there $700,000 FY08 funding in the biennium budget for a master plan. He questioned if the cost to demolish the old buildings is $9.7 million and impact to the water system.

Chair Fukushima referred the matter back to the DPZ Committee to draft a letter of response to Dr. Fukino.

Hale Mohalu II Elderly and Family Housing Affordable Rental Development, 787 Kamehameha Highway, Pearl City – Coalition for Specialized Housing; Ratification of Draft Environmental Assessment Input – Furutani reported he is awaiting information regarding traffic. Chair Fukushima added all comments from the committee were heard, but no action was taken. Unless a letter of response is sent, input from the Board will not be provided and the project will go on without comments. Pickard moved, and Furutani seconded, to authorize Chair Fukushima to submit a letter of response with comments from the Board, which was ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY, 12-0-0. Pickard added he would be notified regarding a meeting with the gas station owner.

LEGISLATIVE AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS (LCIP):

Response to City Auditor’s Report on the Neighborhood Board System Operation – Nuyha circulated copies of the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) Task Force Update and will send responses to Board members via email. She asked that this item be placed on the July agenda.

City Council Neighborhood Board Review Task Force Update – This item was deferred.

Status of 2006 Draft Neighborhood Plan – There was no Neighborhood Commission meeting in June.

Waimano Ridge Master Plan Infrastructure Funding (SB No. 810) – This item was discussed earlier in the meeting. Lau asked to be provided with a copy of the draft letter sent to the Governor and legislature. There was no input relative to the Graffiti Bill.

City Budget – A copy of the Board’s FY 2008 appropriation was received tonight.

At 9:50 p.m. Howton left the meeting, leaving 11 members present.

Upcoming Neighborhood Board Training Sessions – Follow-up will be done with Commissioner Jeanette Nekota, Training Committee chairperson. The next NCO Task Force meeting is scheduled for July 2, 2007.

Vina reminded the Chair that it was now 9:50 p.m. and videotaping has stopped.

PUBLICITY/REFRESHMENTS (P/R):

Yard of the Month Award for July 2007 – Imamura-Uruu moved, and Duncan seconded, to give the July 2007 Yard of the Month Award to Caroline and William Matusuura of Waiau, which was ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY, 11-0-0. Imamura-Uruu mentioned she would out of town in July and suggested the certificate be presented at the committee meeting.

Awarding of Certificates of Recognition and Acknowledgement – Awarded earlier in the meeting.

Publicity Account Expenditure for `Olelo Videographer Services – Chair Fukushima asked approval to utilize the Publicity Account for videotaping of Board meeting. Imamura-Uruu moved, and Vina seconded, to use the Publicity Account for videotaping, which was ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY, 11-0-0.

Approval of Expenditures from Refreshment Account for Snacks – Without objections, the Refreshment Account would be used for eleven months.

Publication of E-mail Newsletter – This item was referred to committee.

Neighborhood Board No. 21 Web Site Update – Deferred.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Ø       Board members were reminded to notify Board member Vina if unable to attend the meetings.

Ø       Next Committee Meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, July 17, 2007, 7 p.m., Highlands Intermediate School Cafeteria.

Ø       Next Regular Board Meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 24, 2007, 6:30 p.m., Highlands Intermediate School Cafeteria.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 10:00 p.m.

Submitted by Nola Frank                                                         Reviewed by,

Neighborhood Commission Office Staff                                  Albert Fukushima, Chair