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WAIPAHU NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

THURSDAY, JUNE 28, 2007

WAIPAHU CULTURAL GARDEN PARK

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Pro-Tem Maureen Andrade called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. A quorum was present.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Maureen Andrade, Rito Saniatan, Richard Oshiro, Tom Maus, Cory Chun, Edmund Alfonso, George Yakowenko, Joe Hunkin, Lorraine Duhaylonsod, Connie Herolaga, Romeo Aguinaldo Garcia, Russel Roller, Terry Healey, Marty Burke.

MEMBERS ABSENT: Irene Elston, Kerry Nishimoto.

VACANCIES: One seat in sub district 7, one seat in sub district 8, one seat in sub district 9.

GUESTS: David Lee Pagan, Robert Jenks, Ross Tanimoto (CCH/ENV), Suzanne Jones, Wendy Maikui, George Yakowenko Jr. (Production Disco Mobile Sounds), Nic Musico (CCH/ENV), Myrna Feliciano (WCA), Manuel Ayala (Leeward YMCA), Keola Taniguchi (Leeward YMCA), Daniel de Cracia II (Representative Cabanilla’s office), Chuck Wheatley (WNIA), Thomas Ventura (WNIA), David Festerling (Public Safety), Officer Brant Pia (HPD/Weed and Seed), Major Debora Tandal (HPD), Officer Ryan Kaleo, Sparky Rodrigues (Olelo), Brian Magagone, Senator Clarence Nishihara, Pat Lee (HHCTCP), Captain Sigmund K. Oka (HFD), Brad Mira (Napaani Softball), Bert Perkins (Olelo), Baybee Hufana-Ablan (ESD), Mayor Mufi Hannemann, Henry Eng (DPP), Lester Chang DPR), Senator Clarence Nishihara, Representative Alex Sonson, Representative John Karamatsu, Representative Ryan Yamane, Rock Riggs (Senator Gabbard’s Office), Kathy Jaress (Neighborhood Commission Office staff), Joan Manke (Executive Secretary/ Neighborhood Commission Office), Leland S.M. Ribac (Neighborhood Commission Office staff).

ELECTION OF OFFICERS:

CHAIR: Chair Pro Tem Andrade opened the nomination for Chair. Burke nominated Oshiro, with Herolaga seconding.  With no other nominations, Chair Pro-Tem closed the nominations. Oshiro was elected as Chair by a unanimous vote of 15-0.

With the absence of the Chair, the board decided to continue elections and let the Vice Chair run the remaining of the board meeting.

VICE CHAIR: Chair Pro Tem Andrade opened the nominations for Vice Chair. Herolaga nominated Yakowenko, with Saniatan seconding. With no other nominations, Chair Pro-Tem closed the nominations. Yakowenko was elected as Vice Chair by a unanimous vote of 15-0.

Newly elected Vice Chair Yakowenko was passed the gavel and resumed elections.

SECRETARY: Yakowenko opened the nominations for Secretary. Andrade nominated Burke.  With no other nominations Yakowenko closed the nominations. Burke was elected as Secretary by unanimous vote of 15-0.

TREASURER: Yakowenko opened the nominations for Treasurer.  Maus nominated Saniatan, with Andrade seconding. With no other nominations Yakowenko closed the nominations.  Saniatan was elected as Treasurer by a unanimous vote of 15-0.

Following the election of officers, Vice Chair Yakowenko explained the election process, and why Andrade had been Chair Pro Tem and started the meeting.

FILLING OF VACANCIES: Yakowenko explained that the vacancies have been long standing.

Sub district 7,8,9: Yakowenko opened the nominations for the filling of one seat in all three sub districts. With no nominations or volunteers, all three vacancies were not filled.

ORGANIZATION OF BOARD: Vice Chair Yakowenko deferred this item until later in the agenda.

CHAIR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS:  Vice Chair Yakowenko announced the facilities entrance and exit procedures. Yakowenko pushed caution in exiting the meeting.

APPROVAL OF MAY 26, 2007 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES: With the correction on Page 1, replace April with May, Burke moved and Roller seconded that the board approve the May 26, 2007 Regular Meeting Minutes. The motion carried unanimously.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Saniatan reported that with the starting of July, new board expenditures were appropriated for each account. Saniatan announced that $1,520 was appropriated for the operating account, $2,500 for the publicity account, and $120 for the refreshment account. With no objections the Treasurer’s Report was adopted.

OFFICIAL REPORTS:

HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD): Captain Oka of HFD reported the following information.

1. HFD reported 34 fires and 241 emergencies in the month of May.

2. Tip of the Month: Please keep brush 30 feet away from all structures and buildings. Recent rain may have caused an overgrowth of brush, and dead brush can easily catch on fire. Independence Day is also right around the corner, children should not handle fireworks, please enjoy a safe holiday.

No questions or concerns followed.

HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD): Major Tandal accompanied by Sergeant Kaneshiro and Officer Kaleo reported the following information.

1. Major Tandal first thanked the Neighborhood Board as well as the community for their continuous assistance in maintaining a safe and clean Waipahu. Major Tandal also thanked all volunteers in the past graffiti cases and paint out events.

2. Sergeant Kaneshiro reported statistics for March through May; approximately 44-45% of all calls in District 3 were reported in Waipahu.

3. There has been an increase in criminal property damages.

4. May totaled for 123 adult arrests, where March and April had 50% less.

Questions, answers and concerns followed:

1. Herolaga noted that her office has been in receipt of many calls in regards to Island Towing on Leokane Street and how the company does not have adequate storage space. There has also been illegal parking on Leokane Street. Major Tandal agreed that she has been in receipt of calls as well. Tandal explained that HPD can cite illegally parked vehicles, which they have been doing, but tow companies such as Island Towing, run out of space. The only solution is if the towing company increases their lot space to house more vehicles.

2. Duhaylonsod mentioned that a friend of hers has been troubled by motorist parking on sidewalks, and blocking her way to the local YMCA. Duhaylonsod’s friend uses a motorized wheelchair and is constantly blocked by vehicles, and needs to go on the road which is clearly a hazard. Tandal noted the location and said officers will be on the look out.

3. Hunkin shared his frustration with HPD in regards to illegal parking and how the cycle seems to be never ending. Tandal reiterated the frustration and noted that HPD is constantly citing and towing vehicles, unfortunately once the vehicle is back with their owner’s HPD has no power over what is done. HPD can only cite and tow the vehicle over and over.

WEED AND SEED (HPD): Officer Pia reported the following information;

1. On June 9th, 23 teams participated in the ‘3 on 3 Basketball Tournament’ which was held at Waipahu Intermediate basketball courts. Officer Pia thanked all participants.
2. Officer Pia recognized the Aniani Place and Samoanalua Group which has started up, they have been very active in the community.
3. Crime Tip of the Month; with schools on summer vacation, please take precautionary measures and extra attention to secure vehicles and residences. Make sure doors are locked, windows are shut and alarms are activated when possible.

No questions or concerns followed.

INTRODUCTIONS: At the request of Vice Chair Yakowenko everyone introduced themselves.

RESIDENT’S CONCERNS:

NAPAANI SOFTBALL TEAM: President Brad Mira reported that the restrooms at Waipahu District Park are inaccessible when Napaani has practices and scheduled games. Mira pressed that Napaani team-members are at least six years old, and cannot simply “hold it”. Mira has sent emails to the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), as well as DPR Managing Director Lester Chang. Mira has not received a response. Mira then enlightened the board by noting that Napaani started nearly two years ago with only one team and 16 members. Napaani has since grown into seven teams with 16 members each. Napaani’s 10 years old and younger most recently won division champions, and 16 years and younger won second place after three back to back games.

Questions, answers and concerns followed:

1. Andrade also noted that Napaani most recently traveled to Maui and played against teams there.
2. Alfonso questioned what times Napaani would require the restrooms opened? Mira replied that at earliest practice and warm up would start at 8:00 a.m. and the last game ends at 6:00 p.m. The restrooms should then be opened from between 7:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Mira noted that he had requested a key that gives him access.
3. Burke suggested that this item be deferred until later in the evening when Lester Chang is available. With none opposing, the item was deferred.

TREE AT HOAEAE PARK: Board member Andrade reported that the large tree at Hoaeae Park has become a hazard to park goers. Andrade noted that the tree’s roots have become extensively large, and have broken through the concrete. Andrade noted that she would not mind if this item was also deferred until DPR was available. With no objections, Vice Chair Yakowenko deferred the measure.

Vice Chair Yakowenko then resumed the agenda at item III. Organization of the Board.

ORGANIZATION OF BOARD:

RATIFY MEETING PLACE, DATE AND TIME: The board unanimously agreed to keep the time and date of previous board meetings, which is the fourth Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m.

With some discussion, the board decided that the meeting location can be changed to the Filipino Community Center (FILCOM), and mentioned that Herolaga has been assisting the board with opening, setting-up and closing of the board. Burke mentioned that the FILCOM acoustics system is not very good, and if other functions are present the board would have to compete with other parties. Burke noted that he preferred the Waipahu Cultural Park location. Herolaga added that she does not mind in setting up and breaking down, but is concerned with the lack of space at the current location. Herolaga also noted the presence of several artifacts in the room of the Cultural Garden Park, which she would hate to be responsible for, if they were to get damaged. Andrade expressed that she agrees with both sides of the argument, and noted that if the decision is to stay at the Waipahu Cultural Garden Park, all board members should assist Herolaga in setting up and breaking down the facility. Andrade noted that at the FILCOM no moving of tables is necessary, and that she would like to try it. Alfonso suggested that a permitted interaction (PI) group be formed. Healey asked senior board members that if the location was to be changed, would participation by community members increase. Board members explained that participation is dependant on topics up for discussion. Vice Chair Yakowenko appointed Maus, Alfonso and Garcia to the PI Group, to find other possible locations to house the board meeting and report next month.

APPROVAL OF BOARD EXPENDITURES: Yakowenko noted there is no facility rental cost. Videotaping was agreed upon last month to continue services. Yakowenko moved and Saniatan seconded that the board continue videotaping and broadcasting on Olelo. The motion carried by unanimous consent.  Yakowenko mentioned to Joan Manke, Executive Secretary and Neighborhood Commission Office, that he would like to see the refreshment accounts removed, as taxpayer’s monies should not be used on food. Manke expressed that other boards may not agree with such a change, and added that the boards simply not use it, as it would go back into the general funds. Marty moved with Maus seconding that the funding in the refreshment account to the operating account. The motion carried by unanimous consent.

COMMUNITY REPORTS:

CENTRAL OAHU REGIONAL PARK/ WAIPIO SOCCER COMPLEX: Burke reported that there had been a small brush fire at the park, believed to have been intentionally set by juveniles. HPD is on the look out for perpetrators. There was no substantial damage from the fire. American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) will be conducting its 47th soccer tournament from July 4th-8th. In 2008 AYSO will host the Nationals Tournament.

Question, answers and concerns followed:

1. Alfonso questioned if the juveniles were caught, are the parents liable to pay the amount of damages. Burke was unsure of any legislation that would amount to such an action.
2. Mira questioned the soccer facilities and questioned why there were no facilities such as the soccer field for softball. Burke noted that the soccer field is for the entire island not just Waipahu, just like the Waipio baseball park is for the entire island.

FILCOM CENTER: Troy Arre was not present.

HONOLULU HIGH-CAPACITY TRANSIT CORRIDOR (HHCTC): Pat Lee of HHCTC reported that the project is well underway. An environmental impact study (EIS) is in process. In regards to a fixed railway from Kapolei to UH Manoa, alternative routes are being looked at. HHCTC encourages public participation in the upcoming months.

No questions or concerns followed.

LEEWARD YMCA: Manuel Ayala accompanied by Keola Taniguchi reported the following information.

1. To date, the YMCA Leeward Branch has 3,700 members ranging from six months in age to active seniors.
2. Some 250 children are taking up swimming sessions.
3. The YMCA A+ program serves 2,500 children with daily activities.
4. All together the YMCA Leeward Branch provides services for nearly 7,500 individuals everyday.

Questions, answers and concerns followed:

1. Duhaylonsod shared her appreciation and excitement toward the YMCA facilities. Duhaylonsod noted that she is an active member and enjoys the heated swimming pool at 5:30 a.m. every morning.
2. Garcia inquired as to what amenities the facility offers. The structure is approximately 5,000 square feet, with nearly 130 pieces of equipment. Healthy Start equipment for the first floor specifically used for cardio. The 25 meter heated pool is open, laundry services are also available. Garcia inquired if there was a sauna or steam room. Ayala noted that the facility does not accommodate those services to create more of a family environment.

OMPO CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE (CAC): Maus reported that funding for the next four years of road improvements account is nearly $1.2 billion. The projected plans for road improvements have an accumulated total of $6 billion. For details on all improvement please visit www.oahumpo.org.

Questions, answers and concerns followed:

      Herolaga asked if Maus planned on continuing as the CAC point of contact for the board. Maus replied that because the meeting dates have changed, he is no longer able to attend. It is now up to Chair Oshiro to make the decision.

WAIPAHU COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION (WCA): Myrna Feliciano reported that the completion of the Waipahu Festival Marketplace has been postponed due to uncontrollable factors. Engineers have unearthed what seems to be an artesian well from when the sugar mill was operating. An attempt to cap the well was unsuccessful. WCA is looking for another engineering company that will solve the problem. If anyone visits the construction site now, the well is gushing out water. WCA is uncertain on the completion date and will announce a date when construction is back to normal. Feliciano also noted that she provided the board members a listing of the vendors at the Marketplace. All stalls are taken as well as the kiosk. Feliciano also thanked Yakowenko for his assistance in a grant in aid from Weed and Seed.

Questions, answers and concerns followed:

      Herolaga thanked and applauded Feliciano in her continuing efforts and hard work within the community. Under the guidance of Feliciano the Waipahu Coalition Group has been formed.

WAIPAHU COMMUNITY FOUNDATION (WCF): Roller reported that applications for request are due by the 31st of August. Applications are available at Waipahu High School. Directors of WCF encourage organizations sponsoring youth activities to apply. The budget appropriated is $19,000 a quarter.   A request from the YMCA has been approved.

Questions, answers and concerns followed:

      Mira clarified that requests are limited to two grants a year. Roller noted the maximum amount is $5,000 each. Mira thanked the WCF.

PRESENTATIONS:

OFFICE OF ENVIORNMENTAL SERVICES (ENV): WASTE WATER AND TRASH PICK UP: Department Director (NOTE:  HE IS NOT DIRECTOR) of ENV Ross Tanimoto and City Recycling Coordinator Suzanne Jones highlighted the following information.

      Jones reported that the goal is to reduce waste in Oahu’s landfills, increase recycling, or change waste into energy. A total 1.6 million tons of garbage is picked up on Oahu annually, of that 1 million tons can be recycled or turned into energy. Approximately 57% of Oahu’s trash is not going into the landfills, which compares well to the nation where only 44-46% do not go to landfills. H-Power has done an outstanding job since they opened in 1990 by transforming trash into energy. Oahu residents recycle about 35% of their materials in the trash, compared to the nation, 27%.  A pilot program in selected areas will soon implement curbside recycling. Three bins will be given to accommodate, recyclables, green waste, and waste. The trash pick up system will not charge extra for recycling pick ups, unless the residents would like an extra trash pick up. If larger families need another waste bin the City will provide a second bin at no cost.

Questions, answers and concerns followed:

1. Burke questioned which communities will be included in the trial stages. Jones responded that it was not finalized, although Mililani, Kailua, and Hawaii Kai have been suggested.

2. Burke also asked if families already have two waste bins will they be given four. The City will look into that issue and resolve it as it comes up. Burke asked if the recycling program will eliminate the HI 5 charge on bottles and cans. Jones replied that it would not eliminate the HI 5 bottle fee, only because 35 tons of the average 40 tons of recyclables per household is paper.
3. Alfonso questioned if the union was involved in the process. Jones replied that the union is always a consideration, and will be informed.

4. Healey questioned what recycling efforts are being done for apartments and condominiums. Jones replied that technical and educational assistance is being considered for apartments and condominiums.

Ross Tanimoto proceeded with a slideshow on wastewater, and highlighted the following information:

      The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is trying to revise a waiver that could be troublesome to the public as well as the Wastewater treatment facilities. The EPA may not renew a waiver which would require the City to do major upgrade of facilities at Sand Island and Honouliuli. The upgrades will add additional costs to homeowners. The ENV asks the support of the board to stop such a change to the waiver.

Questions, answers and concerns followed:

1. Andrade reiterated that if the EPA carries out their proposed plans for upgrades, each household will have to pay an extra $300 monthly, for upgrades only at the Sand Island and Honouliuli facilities.

2. Yakowenko questioned if the ocean waters are contaminated and we need the upgrade? Andrade noted that her husband worked for CINAGROW and the water is not contaminated.

3. Marty questioned how the board can be of assistance. Tanimoto replied that a letter or resolution be drafted and sent to the EPA by August 27th. Burke said that he would draft a resolution and bring it before the board for vote in July.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES (EMS) SUPPORT FOR WAIPAHU: Yakowenko expressed his gratitude to Representative Yamane who has worked extensively for providing EMS SERVICES FOR Waipahu. The plan is going through the process. Yakowenko noted that this item can be taken off the agenda and placed on future agendas as needed.

REDISTRICTING COMMITTEE: Yakowenko explained there was no update for this specific measure. However, it will be put on the July agenda.

NEW BUSINESS:

CLOSURE OF HOAEAE PARK: Andrade explained that as President of the Village Park Community Association, she is asking the support of the board for closure of Hoaeae Park after 10:00 p.m. Andrade moved with Burke seconding that the Waipahu Neighborhood Board No. 22 support the Village Park Community Association’s efforts in closing Hoaeae park from 10:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. With none opposed, the motion carried by unanimous consent.

TRUANCY OF MINORS AFTER 10:00 P.M. AT HOAEAE PARK: Andrade questioned if there was a curfew in place, where minors can be arrested by HPD. Major Tandal explained that after 10:00 p.m. all minors under 15 years of age should be at home if not accompanied by an adult. If they are not accompanied, then you can call HPD. Andrade thanked Major Tandal for her explanation.

RESOLUTION TO OMPO REQUESTING SUPPORT FOR KAMEHAMEHA HIGHWAY IMPROVMENTS: Burke explained the proposed resolution supports the widening to four lanes which will occur from 2008-2011. Burke moved and Dauhaylonsod seconded that the board adopt the resolution requesting the ‘Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization and certain state and municipal agencies to support Kamehameha Highway improvements, Lanikuhana Avenue to Ka Uka Boulevard.’ With none objecting the motion carried by unanimous consent.

GOVERNMENT REPORTS:

DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT ON PARKS AND RECREATION (DPR) LESTER CHANG:  Director of DPR Les Chang was present and answered questions regarding the closure of restrooms at the Waipahu District Park. Chang replied that the restrooms are opened and then closed due to vandalism and destruction of facilities. Graffiti is done when restrooms are opened later; toilets and facility structures are broken or damaged. Chang replied that he will look into alternative answers for this problem.

Questions, answers and concerns followed:

1. Alfonso questioned why a key isn’t given to the President of Napaani. Chang replied that keys tend to “multiply” and then DPR looses track of who has keys. When keys multiply the facility is prone to more damage.

2. Mira demanded to know (NOTE: be careful in your choice of words) why Chang had not responded to any of his phone calls or emails. Chang expressed that he will look into the subject and noted that he and Mira were discussing this outside. As the conversation began to escalate, Vice Chair Yakowenko ended discussion of this topic.

CITY COUNCILMEMBER NESTOR GARCIA: No representative was present, although a monthly report was available.

CITY COUNCILMEMBER GARY OKINO: No representative was present, although a monthly report was available.

MATOR’S REPRESENTATIVE: Baybee Hufana-Ablan was present but yielded her time to Mayor Mufi Hannemann. Mayor Hannemann reported the following information.

      Mayor Hannemann expressed his gratitude to be present at the board meeting with members of his cabinet and noted that Waipahu is a special point of interest to the City & County of Honolulu. Mayor Hannemann invited the board as well as the community to the kick off conference for the City’s Transit Program, which will be held on July 14th at Leeward Community College (LCC) from 8:30 a.m. through 12:00 noon. The conference will encompass multiple stations, two leading experts in rail from Oregon and Colorado. Presentations will show how rail has helped many other states in commuting. Mayor Hannemann explained that the process currently calls for three community meetings before the plan goes before the City Council. Waipahu plays a major role in the rail decision. This is the meeting where concerns can be addressed. LCC is right in Waipahu and the Mayor urged community input. Mayor Hannemann explained that everyone wants more services, and with public private partnerships (PPP) this could be very possible.

Questions, answers, and concerns followed:

1. Sparky Rodrigues of Olelo questioned if this conference was to be broadcasted. The Mayor asked Henry Eng of his cabinet, and Eng replied that Olelo is welcomed to attend.

2. Representative Sonson questioned the transit system and PPP’s. Sonson mentioned that the State did not approve of PPP’s in funding. The Mayor pressed that like Sunset on the Beach or the purchase of Waimea Valley, where funding was provided by the U.S. Army, the City will stay in charge of operations. The Mayor added that they do not mean to privatize the roads, but to fund the project by private funding.

3. Mira questioned the Mayor in why parts of the Waipahu District Park has unused land, and criticized the Mayor for not putting emphasis on the west side. Mayor Hannemann strongly stated that “this mayor has put more emphasis on the west side than any other mayor before him.” The Mayor asked Chang to respond to Mira’s allegations and Chang reiterated that $2.5 million has been spent on the fields at Waipahu District Park. Mira announced that two of the three fields are non-operational; Chang said he knew nothing of this, and to his best recollection the fields are operational.

4. Yakowenko questioned Hufana-Ablan, who directed the question to Manke, as to why the board members do not have a copy of the Neighborhood Plan. Manke noted that because the plan is under revision, it did not make sense to print copies of an old plan, and then re-distribute a new plan. Manke also noted that within the next few months the proposed plan will go before the commission, and that the proposed revisions can be accessed via the internet at www.honolulu.gov/nco.

GOVERNOR’S REPRESENTATIVE: David Festerling representing the Governor’s office reported that the Governor’s June handout is available. The Governor had just recently returned from her official trip to Indonesia and Japan. Also attached to the handout is a Quest Ace medical handout, which targets 19-64 year old residents.

Burke moved with Herolaga seconding that the meeting be extended another half hour. With none opposing the motion carried unanimously.

STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (DOT): Scott Ishikawa reported that this would be the last meeting that he will be attending, as many of his projects are near completion. Ishikawa noted that Farrington Highway has been repaved, and crosswalk countdown timers are to be installed next month.

Questions, answers and concerns followed:

1. Representative Sonson questioned who will be maintaining the vegetation around the newly completed area, because he has noticed several bushes already dying. Ishikawa mentioned that landscaping is through a private contractor and will look into it.

2. Roller mentioned that he has noticed flashing crosswalk signals at the sub base at Pearl Harbor. Ishikawa replied that those are temporarily being tested at that location, and have been stolen at several other locations on Oahu.

BOARD OF EDUCATION: Breene Harimoto was not available, but a handout was circulated.

STATE SENATORS

SENATOR WILL ESPERO: No representative was present.

SENATOR MIKE GABBARD: Rock Riggs of Senator Gabbard’s office reported that Senator Gabbard sends his regrets. Senator Gabbard is also assigned to a task force during the interim.

Questions, answers and concerns followed:

      A constituent asked Riggs to please look into removing several of Senator Gabbard’s “Talk Story” event signs down. Riggs noted this task will be completed.

SENATOR CLARENCE NISHIHARA: Senator Nishihara reported the following information.

1. The Filipino Book Project has been a major success, 10 boxes of books have been collected from various elementary school and are on the way to the Philippines.

2. The Waipahu Club House sidewalk will be done by the union as a service project to themselves.

3. Senator Nishihara has just returned from a trip to Japan, where the Hawaii Tourism Authority kept members very busy. The trip was to encompass how to increase tourism in Hawaii.

No questions followed.

STATE REPRESENTATIVES

REPRESENTATIVE RIDA CABANILLA: Daniel de Gracia of Representative Cabanilla’s office reported that the Representative sends her regrets, and that a handout is available.

REPRESENTATIVE SHARON HAR: No representative was available.

REPRESENTATIVE JON RIKI KARAMATSU: Representative Karamatsu thanked the board members for their hard work, and showed his appreciation by handing out letters of appreciation to each board member, and reported the following.

1. Representative Karamatsu is a member of the Identity Theft Task Force.
2.  Karamatsu attended the 2007 National Conference of State Legislators.

No questions followed.

REPRESENTATIVE ALEX SONSON: Representative Sonson reported the following information:

1. Governor Lingle has selected 33 bills which potentially may be vetoed. Lingle has until July 10, 2007 to decide. State Legislators have already had a meeting discussing possible vetoes and overrides. Several of the proposed veto bills include pedestrian and public safety.
2. During the interim, Sonson will be working with several committees on resolutions passed this session.
3. Representative Sonson encouraged everyone to contact his office if needed.

REPRESENTATIVE RYAN YAMANAE: Representative Yamane presented a lei to board member Andrade for winning the most votes, and reported the following.

1. Representative attended the trip to Asia with Senator Nishihara, where they visited four countries in six days.

2. Yamane thanked the board’s support and resolution for Kamehameha Highway.

3. Yamane also indicate that the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) bill has gone through and money was acquired, so assistance is on the way.

No questions followed.

ANNOUMNCEMENTS: Sparky Rodrigues announced that Olelo Community Television will be opening a center in Waipahu. Rodrigues encouraged everyone to schedule a tour of the facilities, and to call 671-3950.

ADJOURNMENT: Completing the agenda, Vice Chair Yakowenko adjourned the meeting at 9:54 p.m.

Submitted by:

Leland S.M. Ribac

Neighborhood Assistant