NORTH SHORE NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2006

JOHN KALILI SURF CENTER

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Kathleen M. Pahinui called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.; a quorum was present with nine (9) members.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Kathleen Pahinui, Jake Ng, Warren Scoville, Bob Leinau, Antya Miller, John Hirota, Alfredo Antonio, Ollie Lunasco, Carol Philips, Michael Lyons.

MEMBERS ABSENT: Lloyd O’ Sullivan, Dan Gora, Blake McElheny, Geraldine Meade, James Awai.

GUESTS: Rick Davis and Wade Morisato (Hawaii Skateboard Association), Ron Dietz, Noki Lacad, April Cuesta and Ohana, Lt. Mark Kawasaki (Honolulu Police Department), Capt. Paul Emmons (Honolulu Fire Department), Jeff Alameida (Waialua Community Association), George F. Williams (Friends for Waialua Town), Stew Ring (Mokuleia Community Association), Katherine Folasa and Reed Matsuura (Councilmember Donovan Dela Cruz’s Office staff), Pam Mills-Packo, Nancy John (North Shore Outdoor Circle), Gil Riviere, Ron Nishihara (Castle & Cooke), Kathy, Korie-Ann and Glenn Fujishige, Dave Druz, Thomas Shirai, Georgio Caldarone, Judy Rossman, Brigadier General Gary Ishikawa (Governor’s Representative), Maxi Moto, Eric Schatz (Coral Wireless), Les Young (ALCOA Wireless), K.B. Van Der Leeden (HESD/OSD), George Kuo (Board of Water Supply), Larry Sagaysay (Representative Michael Magaoay), Eric Schatz (Coral Wireless), Maj. Gregory Baker (U.S. Infantry 25^th Division), Marie Richardson (Neighborhood Commission Office).  

APPROVAL OF MINUTES FOR THE OCTOBER 25, 2005 REGULAR MEETING: Leinau moved, Hirota seconded the approval of October 25, 2005 Regular Meeting Minutes as circulated. The motion carried by unanimous consent.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES FOR THE NOVEMBER 22, 2005 REGULAR MEETING: Correction followed:

·        Page 3, item 7, under Questions and comments No. 1, delete Puena, correct spelling is Puaena Point.

Leinau moved, Philips seconded the approval of November 22, 2005 Regular Meeting Minutes as amended. The motion carried by unanimous consent. The Board recessed in December 2005.

TREASURER'S REPORT:  Ng reported: 1) November 2005: Current Operating expense totaled $82.12, leaving a balance to-date of $1,002.89. No expense reflected in the Publicity and Refreshment Accounts. Closing balances to-date: $1,451.00 (Publicity) and $120.00 (Refreshment). 2) December 2005: Current Operating expense totaled $78.03, leaving a balance to-date of $924.86. No expense reflected in the Publicity and Refreshment Accounts; closing balances were as previously reported in November.

Leinau moved, Lyons seconded to accept the Treasurer’s Report of November and December 2005, subject to audit. The motion carried by unanimous consent.

Chair Pahinui introduced Alenka Remec with the Office of the Mayor, Small Business Advocate and the Board’s new Mayor’s representative. She is replacing Alex Berenberg, who will be fulfilling his military obligations. Remec has a background in conservation, business and economic development. She looks forward to working with the North Shore Neighborhood Board and community.

REPORTS FROM HONOLULU POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS:

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – Lt. Mark Kawasaki reported: 1) for December 2005 - 9 burglaries, 22 UEMV’s (unauthorized entry into motor vehicles), 34 thefts and 9 auto thefts. 2005 statistics totaled: 130 burglaries, 695 UEMV’s, 373 thefts and 119 auto thefts. 2) There were no follow-ups to report. 3) Monthly Tip: Get to know your neighbors, exchange contact numbers or even start a Neighborhood Security Watch (NSW). For more information on NSW you can contact the Wahiawa Police Station at 621-8442 and ask for Officer Bonifacio.

Miller arrived during this portion of the meeting. (10 members present)

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. Leinau asked for more highlights on arrests involving crimes in this area; Lt. Kawasaki said beat officers do make a significant amount of arrests (especially related to car break-ins). He will try to get those highlights.  

2. Lyons said the newspaper mentioned that the North Shore had approximately 2,000 crimes in an area of 18,000 people; and by example, Kalihi, just fewer than 5,000 crimes in an area of 185,000 people, and he fees that the North Shore is being victimized more often. With the Police Chief announcing that they will be going into 8-hour shifts island wide by July, the concern is whether there will be enough police cover; monies are being taken out of pocket to buy a new trailer for the ATV’s. Without knowing any specifics, Lt. Kawasaki stated that HPD would maintain a minimum coverage of 80% manpower, island wide, per district, per beat. Example: District 2 area has a total of 12 Beats, which a minimum of 10 officers would be on duty at all times.

Chair Pahinui made the following comments: the ATV trailer money was all donations and not taxpayer monies; secondly, regarding the number burglaries on the North Shore - how many involve residents; and how many involve visitors. 

3.   Ng raised concern about Kaukonahua Road, where the speed limit posted is 35 m.p.h. and invariably drivers do about 45 m.p.h. He said there should be more patrols on Kaukonahua to catch speeders (exceeding 45 m.p.h.) and those overtaking the double solid line and the blind turns. Lt. Kawasaki acknowledged the problem.

4.   Stew Ring touched on the growing concern of illegal camping at Mokuleia Beach Park and commended HPD’s Sgt. Philips, who had taken cared of, and was extremely helpful with the removal of the derelict vehicles. He further explained that HPD is doing all they can do, and the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is doing absolutely nothing to assist in the efforts to rid the park of the illegal camping. Lt. Kawasaki knows of the problem and HPD is doing what they can but needs the assistance of DPR. 

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD): Capt. Paul Emmons reported statistic for the Waialua and Sunset Stations: 1) 7 brush, 26 rubbish, 5 vehicle fires; 148 medical, 23 search/rescue and 23 miscellaneous emergencies. 2) A major incident involved four company’s responding to a double fatality at Dillingham Airfield. 3) Fire Safety Tip: Fire, Building, and U.S. Postal Codes, along with City ordinances, state that all property owners shall place their house numbers in such a manner as to be readily seen from the street. Having your address plainly visible and legible from the street or road fronting your property will assist the Honolulu Fire Department and other first responders to locate you more quickly in the event of an emergency.

Ng, a member of the Fire Commission, expressed his pleasure in selection process of the new Fire Chief Ken Silva and Deputy Fire Chief, Alvin Tomita. In that respect, Ng would be speaking to Fire Chief Silva concerning the location for the new proposed Waialua Fire Station. 

U.S. ARMY 25TH INFANTRY DIVISION: Major Gregory Baker reported: 1) the Army is looking forward to this year’s participation in the Great Aloha Run. 2) Training and support for the war on terrorism will be wrapping up by this summer. 3) Currently, deployments are being conducted to Pohakuloa on the Big Island for training; and there will be increased military traffic while transporting equipment out to Pearl Harbor. 4) A big win from the Army’s point of view was the recent involvement with the coalition of groups that came together to help secure the purchase of Waimea Valley. Not only does this help the community, but also helps to protect the Army’s training area.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. Miller understood that the military will soon begin working on Drum Road and would be accessing Cane Haul Road through Haleiwa Town. She asked Maj. Baker for input on the matter. Not being very specific, he noted that the Drum Road project is set to begin and is very lengthy, and that he knows that they would be using the access roads. Miller invited anyone who may be interested to come this Thursday morning, a meeting at the Chamber of Commerce, when the military will be there to talk about and answer any questions.

2. Lyons asked if the military explored anything further regarding the medevac helicopters. Maj. Baker indicated that the current MAST medevac agreement goes back about eight years. Before the announced deployment, they immediately identified that it was going to be an issue for the islands. But all he could comment on is that there are a couple of potential solutions, but it’s a matter of choosing the right course of action. Lyons emphasized it is quite a concern for this area.

3. Ron Dietz asked: a) why does Drum Road have to be paved; and b) if it has something to do with the Stryker Brigade, why can’t they use the road that’s already there. Maj. Baker noted even when doing normal military convoys, putting a vehicle that big is like having 20 Humvees on the road, traffic can get pretty tied up; and from the military’s standpoint, it’s more of a safety issue when having to be on the public roadway. Pahinui explained that a presentation has been made to the Board and that there are pieces of the road that need work.  

RESIDENTS’ CONCERNS:

1. Pam Mills-Packo highlighted Legislative action items for the Kaiaka Bay Watershed. All items are asking the Hawaii State Legislature appropriations for: a) flood control project in Kaiaka Bay Watershed; b) additional funding for North Shore’s homeowner loss mitigation program funding, and a pilot disaster information project; c) funding for the Department of Health (DOH)/Department of Education (DOE) for water and waste system improvements at North Shore’s lowland schools; d) to direct DOH to designate the North Shore area as a Clean Water Act Local Action Strategy Area and expedite implementation for continued pollution prevention technical assistance; and e) provide funding for a pilot program to monitor impacts of and to recommend locally-appropriate best management practices for military, urban, agricultural and conservation operations. (Handout was available.)

Ng moved, Antonio seconded to add this topic to tonight’s agenda for discussion. Discussion followed: Concerns were that from this brief presentation a clearer understanding was not met. In order to have an opportunity to review the full context of the bills, a request was to add this matter to next month’s agenda. Ng was requesting support at this time because the bills will be heard within the next few weeks. Ng withdrew his motion. He asked to be on next month’s agenda; the request was acknowledged.

2.   Wade Morisato, of Hawaii Skateboard Association, reported that the Banzai Rock Skateboard Park Project is stalled due to a budget shortage. The project is now with the Department of Design and Construction; and the project is not anticipated to begin before May 2006. Concerns should be conveyed to offices of Mayor Hannemann and Council Chair Dela Cruz. 

Comments followed: 1) Leinau noted typically when the City awards a contract, how it is that the project runs out of money. 2) In the course of a project it sometimes gets delayed for whatever reason. However, Remec understands there were not enough monies from the get go. 3) Matsuura said the ground breaking/blessing ceremony was through the efforts of Council Chair Dela Cruz, Sunset Beach Community Association, community residents and the skateboard representatives. The project had all its permits, held a pre-construction meeting and was scheduled to begin, therefore, the ceremony was held. Matsuura will have a status report next month.

3.   Nancy John, President of the North Shore Outdoor Circle, and a member of Save Waimea Valley Coalition, would like invite everyone to a Community Informational Meeting on Saturday, February 11, 2006, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Waimea Valley. Please come and show your support. For more information log onto: http://www.waimeavalleycoalition.org.

4.   Thomas Shirai is asking for Board’s support for a letter to nominate Antone Kaoo, a champion marathoner, to the Hawaii Sports Hall of Fame. Shirai’s great grand uncle was a noted champion marathoner in the 1890’s when Hawaii was a territory, a messenger for King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani, a Royal Guardsmen of the Iolani Barracks, and was 47 years of age when he ran the marathon from Waialua to Honolulu. He was also a fisherman, a Kumu Hula and noted for the chant originated specially for Queen Kapiolani, “E Liliu E.” Ng moved, Scoville seconded to add under New Business, a letter of support for Antone Kaoo. The motion carried by the required two-thirds (10) vote to add an item to the agenda, 10-0-0.

5.   Lyons expressed the following concerns: a) trees a Kaiaka Bay Park need to be trimmed or cut down; one of the branches fell and bent the bordering fence. b) A 6-8-inch support beam at Waialua Recreation Center is dry rotted and cracked and needs to be replaced. c) What is the crane doing at Long Bridge. d) How do we go about keeping MAST. e) The bathrooms at Ali’i Beach Park need improvements.

6.   Resident Patrick Vega shared the same concern about the fallen tree at Kaiaka Bay Park. Vega did what he was asked to do, submitted pictures of the busted fence and is frustrated because it is going nowhere. These trees pose a threat to their homes and safety. Neighbor Lacad has those same fears since the Manoa incident that one of these trees may come through his daughter’s bedroom wall. Philips moved, Leinau seconded to add under New Business, regarding the ironwood trees at Kaiaka Bay Park. The motion carried by the required two-thirds (10) vote to add an item to the agenda, 10-0-0.

7.   Miller is concerned about real property tax increases and is requesting the Board to support a draft resolution with various options for tax relief. Miller moved, Lyons seconded to add to tonight’s agenda under New Business, regarding a draft resolution for tax relief. The motion carried by a two-third (10) vote required adding an item to the agenda, 10-0-0.

8.       Scoville is concerned about: a) the installation of two traffic signals at Haleiwa Road and Kamehameha Highway; and on Waialua Beach Road and Goodale Avenue; b) opening of another 7-Eleven Store at the corner of Haleiwa Road and Kamehameha Highway (Union 76 Service Station); and c) a 3,500 unit housing development at Kawela Bay (just outside of the North Shore Neighborhood Board boundary and within the Koolauloa Neighborhood Board boundary). He would like to encourage community involvement.

Comments followed: 1) Chair Pahinui highlighted: regarding the traffic light - a traffic study conducted on November 23 – 24, 2005 by the Department of Transportation Services (DTS) determined a traffic light was warranted. Scoville asked aren’t the Neighborhood Boards informed anymore and requested this message be conveyed to Council Chair Dela Cruz. 2) Lyons said a three-story building (Anahulu Center) being built is seven feet over its allowable height limit. Somehow it got approved and this would probably bring the need for a traffic light, although he’s not in favor of that location; but Goodale Avenue is fine because of the school right there. Chair Pahinui will try to get more information. 3) Lunasco’s mentioned the efforts of trying to get a crosswalk on Goodale Avenue for pedestrian safe crossing went on without success.     

9.       Lunasco also expressed concern about: a) a housing development on agricultural land in Waialua (by the old Catholic Church); the property was sold by Dole Foods; and b) a female individual doing business on the Waialua bike path and interfering with clear passage on the path. He had no objections, but when it interferes with the traffic on the bike path, it creates a problem.

10. Max Moto shared concern with tourists having to avoid potholes while walking through Haleiwa Town. There are no sidewalks.

11. Miller said before any traffic lights go in that there two other areas of greater fatality concern: on Kamehameha Highway near Dole/Helemano Plantation; and at Waimea Bay/Valley. Leinau added Cane Haul Road as well.            

 12. Another concern arose regarding a proposal for Waialua including a golf course, civic center, etc.; Chair Pahinui noted a number of Board members participated in the Waialua Town Master Plan effort, nothing is in stone and these are only suggestions.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

North Shore Neighborhood Board Video Taping – Chair Pahinui explained that Mike Winget has moved on to other business and the Board having to look for another videographer. Rob Bailey, a North Shore resident, is interested in videotaping the North Shore meetings. If there were no objections, she would like to give Bailey an opportunity at $150.00 per taping. Leinau moved, Ng seconded to have Bailey videotape the North Shore Neighborhood Board meetings beginning February 2006. The motion carried by unanimous consent.   

NEW BUSINESS:

City Resolution 05-114 Naming of Ali’i Beach Comfort Station after Donald Keao – Council Chair Dela Cruz’s office is seeking a letter of support for Resolution 05-114 – the naming of Ali’i Beach Comfort Station after Donald Keao. Philips moved, Ng seconded the motion to support Resolution 05-114. Discussion followed: 1) Lyons would like to tie in repairs of the bathroom fixtures and the missing toilet seats; additionally, he had reservations about the thousands of dollars it would cost for the plaque. 2) Lunasco had concerns of naming restrooms after people and doesn’t see the rationale. He would however, agree to put a plaque. 3) Ng considers Keao a hero to Haleiwa and fully supports the motion noting Keao’s hard work and dedication to see the project from the start to completion. 4) Leinau reminded Lunasco about John Kalili Surf Center, although he personally didn’t know him, that sometimes they do honor people that way. 5) Shirai totally agreed with Ng and Leinau; it is also, a legacy that spans back to the 1700’s. This was Keao’s pet project that he lobbied very hard to complete. Shirai felt this would recognize a well-known individual of this community. Shirai, however, totally disagrees with the $5,000 amount of the plaque. 6) Lunasco was not against the resolution, but rather against the cost; also regarding the John Kalili Surf Center, Mr. Kalili put money into the surf center and that’s why its name after him. Matsuura clarified that the resolution was only for naming the comfort station and not the cost of the plaque. But when speaking to Lyons and mentioning a $6,000 cost amount, Matsuura told him nothing was for certain. Miller indicated if this is going through the City, the $6,000 figure seems about what the City would charge. The motion failed, 7-3-0, due to the 8 votes required to pass the motion. Aye: Pahinui, Ng, Scoville, Leinau, Hirota, Antonio, Philips. Nay: Miller, Lunasco, Lyons.

Verizon Installation of a Proposed Antenna Facility in the Waimea/Pupukea Area – Les Young, ALCOA Wireless Services, reported that wireless coverage in the Waimea/Pupukea area is currently inconsistent. In order to fill the coverage gap, additional antenna sites are needed. Verizon proposes to install an antenna facility and co-locate on an existing 35-feet antenna tower at 59-306 Alapio Road. T-Mobile, owner of the existing 35-foot antenna and Verizon Wireless are applying for a Special Use Permit (SUP), for the existing 35-feet metal antenna pole and the installation of additional antennas on the existing pole. Verizon would be mounting a set of (4) panel antennas at the height of 26 feet; each panel measuring four feet high, one foot wide and six inches deep; and will be painted to match the existing tower. The existing antenna tower would not be extended or change in height. Verizon would be placing an equipment cabinet next to the existing antenna pole on a new concrete pad measuring 10-feet by 12-feet. Agreements have already been made between Verizon Wireless, the property owner and T-Mobile, for the use of the property and the existing antenna tower. The proposed site has four existing antenna poles ranging in heights from 20 - 35 feet.

Concerns of a neighboring resident (59-318 Alapio Road): the antennas are not aesthetically pleasing; are there any landscaping plans, who will monitor and maintain the area surrounding the facility, and are there any guarantees/penalties if the plan is not honored; how many more antennae can be added to the tower.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1.   Leinau questioned the zoning of the property, which he was told was zoned country. He felt some unfairness that the government can come back later and require permit re-certification and wonders whether there’s more to this story. Young was unaware of any reasons behind the change but nonetheless, back in 1999 a change was made that ag/country zone would now require an SUP, whereas in the past a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) was all it required.

2.       Lyons questioned the property owner: a) when they brought the property whether the realtor advised them of this; b) also, whether the towers were there already; the answer being no to the first question and yes to the second. Lyons further noted perhaps exploring a California law, which may pertain here regarding peaceful and quiet enjoyment.  

3.       Young indicated the four to two percent standard were the results of the study based on radio emissions, based on the assumption that the Verizon antennas were already there. Philips was curious about what the increases were; Young did not have that information.

4.       With regards to the landscape agreements, Young was privy to agreements that might have already been in place. Young did have a conversation with the concerned resident a week ago to discuss the possibilities of proposing to the landowner some landscaping recommendations; which Young is still open to. If the approval by the City were conditional upon a specific landscape scheme, they would abide by that also.

5.       Another resident was concerned about the noise from the existing power lines to the building and the increase of power lines to the new structure that will be built. With regards to the landscape concerns, he believed the Outdoor Circle originally requested a landscape plan, per research done by one of the other neighbors. According to Nancy John the matter has not been discussed since she’s been here (1999); Young would continue the dialogue with John.

Chair Pahinui said nothing was required of the Board; only that Verizon needed to make this presentation. Miller would like to request that the visual impact from the shoreline be minimized and suggested an arborist and horticulturist be available to help in those areas. John suggested a camouflage looking type of cover up.          

Mobi PCS Co-location on Sprint Antenna Facility in the Waimea/Pupukea Area – In the interest of full disclosure, Pahinui noted that her company does the advertising for Mobi PCS.

A representative for MObi PCS reported that similar to Verizon, Mobi PCS would like to co-locate at an existing telecommunications facility at the same location. Their intention is to mount six panel antennas at the top of a 35-feet wooden pole; and include a self-contained outdoor equipment cabinet measuring 55-inches high by 52 inches wide by 30-inches deep. Coaxial cables will run from the radios housed in the cabinet to two panel antennas 72-inches high by 10 –inches wide mounted on either side of the wood pole, at a maximum height of 29 feet.

Comments followed: 1) CUPs were issued earlier but he can’t recall what conditions were imposed as part of those CUPs. Typically, a landscaping plan would only cover the equipment buildings and fences. 2) The answer was yes in response to a comment whether everyone needed their own equipment cabinet. In regards to what’s in the cabinets, it is radios that transmit the signals, sensitive receivers and battery packs. 3) Another comment stated that these companies are getting the permit first and then talking later about the aesthetics, therefore having no regard for the community. 4) Lyons referred to the two residents concerned about the area around their place and asked Mobi PCS to take a special effort to work with them.   

Letter of support for Antone Kaoo to the Hawaii Hall of Fame – Ng moved, Scoville seconded a letter of support to nominate Antone Kaoo to the Hawaii Hall of Fame. The motion carried by unanimous consent. 

The agenda was momentarily taken out of order.

City Resolution 05-114 Naming of Ali’i Beach Comfort Station after Donald Keao, continued - Family members of Mr. Keao asked to address the Board: April Cuesta, daughter of Mr. Keao, asked whether the issue was the cost of the plaque; if so their family could raise the money. She remembers being four years old when her father talked about a bathroom there so the kids wouldn’t have to go to the other end of the park; today she’s 34 years old. He worked many years and through his efforts they finally have a comfort station; and he deserves the honor. The Board was asked to reconsider and support the motion. The Board opted not to reconsider. Another daughter expressed her disappointment with the results of the motion. His drive and dedication was obvious, through his work with this Board and the community for many, many years. She too asked for reconsideration. (NOTE: Only a Board member who voted against the motion can reopen the motion for reconsideration).

Comments followed: 1) Miller reassured the family it was nothing personal, but that the only concern was that it may set precedence. 2) Lunasco shared the same concern, but he believes people will refer to it as, “Popoki’s Comfort Station.” 3) Lyons said he received a number of phone calls from constituents protesting the issue and was in turmoil; but that he represents all the constituents. 

Chair Pahinui thanked everyone for his or her opinion and encouraged everyone to submit testimony on this resolution to Council Chair Dela Cruz’s office.

The agenda resumed order.

Letter of support regarding the ironwood trees at Kaiaka Bay Park – Lunasco moved, Lyons seconded to send a letter to Mayor Hannemann about the ironwood trees at Kaiaka Bay Park posing a threat to homes adjacent to the park and a danger for the safety of the residents of these homes. The motion carried by unanimous consent, 10-0-0.

The Board took a brief recess at 8:55 p.m. and resumed at 9:05 p.m.

Consideration to the Proposed Draft Resolution regarding Property Tax and Property Tax Assessment –Miller read the draft resolution aloud, which said, “Assessed property values and property taxes have increased as much as 420% from 2002-2003 to 2006-2007 for properties within our North Shore District; therefore be it resolved: The North Shore Neighborhood Board hereby requests that the City Council of the City and County of Honolulu and the Mayor’s Office closely review Property Tax and Property Assessment polices which have been in effect since fiscal year 2002-2003. Specific areas to be reviewed and considered should address the length of owner’s family, age, owner/occupant family income, owner’s desire to maintain and/or continue residency on the property, and homeowners’ and owner/occupant deductions.” Following the reading of the resolution, Miller moved, Scoville seconded to adopt the motion as presented. Discussion followed: There was some feeling of uncertainty, but Board member Philips, strongly supported the motion and contended that this radical change would open the doors for investors and move the locals out of the North Shore. Lunasco would like much stronger language. But, most would agree that they have no intention to sell. The motion carried, 8-2-0. Aye: Pahinui, Scoville, Leinau, Miller, Hirota, Lunasco, Philips, Lyons. Nay: Ng, Antonio. (Attachment – I)

PRESENTATIONS: None.

TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE UPDATE: Gil Riviere reported: 1) a letter to Scott Ray from Polynesian Adventure Company apologizing for the tour buses stopping alongside Laniakea. 2) The next Transportation Committee meeting is Wednesday, February 8, 7 p.m. at Waialua Court House. Community participation is encouraged. Discussion will include the road realignment; other issues include rock fall mitigation, bike path, etc. 2) The draft 2030 ORTP (Oahu Regional Transportation Plan) will be presented at an island wide community meeting on Wednesday, February 15 at Hawaii Convention Center; Open House at 4:30; draft Plan presentation at 5:15 p.m. and again at 7 p.m. (repeat).

Riviere was asked to look into the traffic signal issue; Chair Pahinui will give him more information.

ELECTED OFFICIALS:  

Congressman Ed Case – No representative was present; a report was available.

Mayor's Representative – Alenka Remec reported: 1) putting her best efforts forward to get answers to all the Board’s concerns; and 2) touched on the Mayor’s proposed solutions regarding real property taxes.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. A number of concerns were raised regarding the rising property taxes. a) Lyons suggested a special homeowner’s clause for those who have no intention to sell their homes. b) Lunasco commented that people not selling their homes are getting shafted. c) Miller said why balance the budget? d) Riviere talked about the $85 million that will be added to the City’s larger debt service. e) Lyons commented property taxes are going up but the North Shore area is not getting anything out of this. f) Pahinui stated people are living illegally on the beaches and getting off with doing only community service. The North Shore is being treated like a third world country.

2. Philips raised concerns regarding the impact of TVU’s (Transient Vacation Units) on the community.

Remec will keep the Mayor apprised of the mentioned concerns. 

Board of Water Supply - George Kuo reported: 1) No main breaks in December. 2) General Water Announcements: a) On January 3, Clifford P. Lum began his appointment as the new Manager and Chief Engineer of the Board of Water Supply. b) 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.

City Council Member Donovan Dela Cruz – Reed Matsuura reported on: 1) Resolution 06-017 – Approving the court-mediated settlement in the Waimea Valley condemnation case with Attractions Hawaii, and Christian Wolfer. This was heard in full Council earlier today. 2) Available at the sign-in table is a list of all the newly proposed real property tax relief legislation. All these legislations will be discussed at a Special Budget Committee meeting on January 26, 2006 at 9:00 a.m. in the committee hearing room at Honolulu Hale. The public is welcome and testimony will be taken. 3) Not on the list is a newly created Bill 15 (2006) which provides real property tax relief for a new classification named “low-income homeowner”. This is for owners whose total income of all titleholders of the land does not exceed $50,000.

Governor's Representative – Distributed were Governor Lingle’s 2006 Initiatives, E-10 Unleaded, 10% ethanol content of gasoline handout, and the Governor’s Update. Brig. Gen. Gary Ishikawa reported: 1) Hawaii’s troops will be heading back home; 2) will get the State Department of Transportation to look into the bypass issue; and     

State Senator Robert Bunda – No representative was present, but Senator Bunda’s report was available.

State Representative Michael Magaoay – Larry Sagaysay distributed the Representative’s report and highlighted on upcoming legislation: 1) HB 2188 – makes an appropriation for the purchase of Waimea Valley; HB 2133 – Kaena Point; Natural Area Reserve System, prohibits public vehicular access in Kaena Point, natural area reserve; and HB 2187 – relating to emergency medical services – appropriates funding to the department of health to contract with a government agency or U.S. Military branch to provide intra-island only aeromedical roto-wing services for rural Oahu.  

CORRESPONDENCE AND CHAIR'S REPORT: A listing of the Board’s correspondence was available at the sign-in table. As always, anyone requesting a copy of any of the correspondence should contact Neighborhood Assistant Richardson at 527-5788.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

The next Board meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2006, 7:00 p.m. at the John Kalili Surf Center.

ADJOURNMENT: Being there no other Board business, the meeting adjourned at 9:35 p.m.

Submitted by

Marie Richardson

Neighborhood Assistant