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NORTH SHORE NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

TUESDAY, JULY 24, 2007         

JOHN KALILI SURF CENTER

CALL TO ORDER:  Chair Mike Lyons called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.; a quorum of 12 members present.

MEMBERS PRESENT:  Jeffrey Alameida, Leif Andersen (newly appointed), Jimmy Awai, John Hirota, Bob Leinau, Ollie Lunasco, Mike Lyons, Reed Matsuura, Blake McElheny, Gerri Meade, Antya Miller, Jake Ng, Carol Philips, Gil Riviere, and Warren Scoville.

MEMBERS ABSENT:  None.

GUESTS:  Derek Chow (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers), Kristi Desuacido, Amy White (Ho’ala School), Eric Hirano (Department of Land and Natural Resources), Galen Yoshimoto (Governor’s Representative), Omi Pearman, John Packo (RMS), Chuck Braden (Ko’olauloa Community Health and Wellness Center), Arlene Kawahakui, Bernard M. Tina Sensen, Alenka Remec (Mayor’s Representative), Meryl Andersen, Mike Stockton, Dave Druz, Carl Takamura (Congressman Mazie Hirono’s Office Manager), Gerald Takayesu (City and County of Honolulu), Mike Kitamura (Senator Daniel Akaka’s Office staff), Bin Luers (Camp Mokuleia), Algn Lennard, Ron Nishihara, George Kuo (Board of Water Supply), K. Bodo Van Der Leeden (HESD/OSD), Mark Takemoto (Castle & Cooke / Dole), Bruce Bellows, Tina Jensen, Maj. Kalama (U.S. Army 25th Infantry), Capt. John Bredin (Honolulu Fire Department), Lt. Doug Beerman (Honolulu Police Department), Maj. Kalama (U.S. Army 25th Infantry Division), John Otholt, and Marie Richardson (Neighborhood Commission Office staff).  

Riviere and Matsuura arrived during this portion of the meeting (14 members present).

FILLING OF VACANCY – One (1) vacancy in Sub District 3 (Haleiwa): Chair Lyons announced the Sub District 3 (Haleiwa area) vacancy and asked interested persons to come forward. Leif Andersen, Omi Pearman and Arlene Kawahakui came forward and gave brief introductory speeches.  

Philips nominated Leif Andersen; and Ng nominated Arlene Kawahakui. Philips spoke on behalf of Leif Andersen recognizing his life long residency, multi-generation connection to the community and independent voice on matters. Ng spoke on behalf of Arlene Kawahakui, also known as the keeper of Haleiwa Ali’i Beach Park, attentive and articulate in Hawaiian customs and culture, as well as her interest, dedication and attendance to almost every Board meeting. Awai was impressed with Kawahakui’s desire, interest and dedication month after month attending the Board’s meetings.

No other nominations followed. Ng moved to close the nominations; Miller seconded the motion. Request for a roll call of votes commenced: Andersen was appointed to fill the Sub district 3 vacancy. Aye: Alameida, Lunasco, Lyons, Matsuura, Miller, Philips, Riviere, and Scoville. Andersen was congratulated and NA Richardson followed with the administration of the Oath of Office. (14 members present)

APPROVAL OF MINUTES FOR JUNE 26, 2007:  Corrections to the minutes followed:

• Page 1, under Members Present, Antya Miller should be listed only once; under Guests, Lt. Dave Beerman, should read Lt. Doug Beerman; as on Page 2, under HPD, should also read Lt. Doug Beerman;
• Page 4, item 4, line 5 should read, “…Silva Channel.”;
• Page 7, under Announcements, delete June 26, 2007, should read July 24, 2007.

Ng moved, Meade seconded to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of June 26, 2007, as amended. Hearing no objections, the minutes were approved. 

TREASURER'S REPORT: Leinau reported current expenses in the Operating/Publicity accounts were $364.69, leaving a closing balance to-date of $1,197.88; and included charges for miscellaneous correspondence, printing/mailing of agenda/minutes, lei purchase (4), and videotaping for two months. The Refreshment Account incurred no expense, leaving a balance of $120.00. Awai moved Lunasco seconded to accept the Treasurer’s Report; the report will be filed.

Leinau moved to add the videotaping proposal for the upcoming year to the agenda; seconded by Miller. The motion was adopted, 14-0-0. Aye: Alameida, Andersen, Awai, Hirota, Leinau, Lunasco, Lyons, Matsuura, Meade, Miller, Ng, Philips, Riviere, and Scoville. This will be brought up under New Business.

REPORTS FROM HONOLULU POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS:

McElheny arrived during this portion of the meeting (15 members present).

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – Lt. Doug Beerman reported: 1) The crime statistics for June: 5 burglaries, 31 thefts, 40 unauthorized entry to motor vehicles, 10 stolen vehicles, and 69 arrests (attempted murder, robberies, stolen vehicles, and majority arrests for warrants). 2) Crime statistics are slightly down from last year.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. In response to Leinau’s inquiry, Lt. Beerman noted there were a beach task force unit that patrolled the beaches on all terrain vehicles and another unit to help the patrol units with thefts on the beach.

2. Pearman asked what is being done about the “ice” users in the parks and on the neighborhood streets; she fears they are now coming to her doorsteps. Lt. Beerman understands her concerns and though it may seem that nothing is being done, it could very well be that these matters are under investigations. If you have any information, please call the Narcotics Vice Division at 529-3101 with the details.

3.   Lunasco is concerned that the back road at Lanikuhana, by Del Monte, is being used as a dump and turning into an eyesore. Lt. Beerman reported that officers do patrol that area but cannot be there 24-hours.    

Honolulu Fire Department (HPD) – Capt. John Bredin reported: 1) 1 structure, 12 brush, 4 rubbish, 2 vehicle fires; 21 medical, and 1 arching wire incident. 2) Fire Safety Tip for the month: As August is the start of a new school year, be careful while driving near schools and mindful of students crossing the street. Take the time to teach your children how to cross the street safely and remind them to call 911 for emergencies. 

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. Scoville referred to the brush fire on Papailoa Road which is a known dumping ground for stolen cars. He asked whose responsibility, fire or police, to follow-up. Capt. Bredin reported that they would normally relay the message to HPD however; the cause of this particular fire was not related to the cars.

2. Leinau commented that fire reports are normally given for Waialua and Sunset stations; however, Capt. Bredin said tonight’s report reflects only statistics of Wailua Station, but that statistics for both stations/ communities would close to double.

3. Lyons commended HFD for their experience and training fighting the house fire on Keiki Street; Capt. Bredin commended the 2nd Watch on duty that night.   

U.S. ARMY 25TH INFANTRY DIVISION:  Maj. Kalama gave the following update: 1) Approximately 194 soldiers returned this month from the 45th Sustainment Brigade; responsible for all the logistics throughout the Multi-National Division North in Iraq. 2) The 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team will be leaving for Fort Ord in August for training. 3) A published Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Stryker Brigade Combat Team is available at all public libraries and online at: www.sbct/seis.org. The viewing and comment period is July 20 to September 4. Public hearings will be held at: Waiakea Intermediate School, Waimea Community Center, Wahiawa District Park (August 29), Nanakuli High School (August 30) and Moanalua High School (August 31) from 5:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. 4) The School Liaison Office delivered “ilio” coloring books to 30 public elementary schools in the leeward district. The coloring book will teach students about the dangers of munitions and precautions they should follow. 5) The Army also, through the Army Compatible Use Buffer Program, provided more than $3 million to help with the purchase of Waimea Valley, Moanalua Valley and the Pupukea-Paumalu parcel; and these buffers will help to minimize impacts of the Army’s mission, and to preserve open space and scenic views.     

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. Alameida raised the following: a) of a previous request for information to clarify the boundaries of Army Beach; b) that Army Beach is turning into a dump with people unloading construction materials; and c) that community residents have noticed cars spending extended periods of time (illegal overnight parking). He asked that the Provost Marshall look into the concern. Maj. Kalama apologized it was not in her update and will get an update for next month; and she will also query the dumping and extensive parking issues.

2. Chair Lyons received a call from the Public Relations Office that the boundaries were identified and will be bringing out cement barriers, so they are moving ahead.

3. Leinau understands that the EIS process is still years away regarding Drum Road, but would like to get an update of Drum Road. Maj. Kalama, at the last meeting had some information, and unfortunately, had none tonight but will have an update for the next meeting. 

TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE:  Gil Riviere reported the following: 1) Laniakea Update Study – the State allocated monies for the Laniakea realignment/bypass study. When released, $1.2 million will go toward an Environmental Assessment (EA) or more likely, an EIS. The purpose will also identify and compare possible routes and alternative options. 2) The Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) – is in the process of prioritizing work projects for 2009; suggestions for project ideas are encouraged. 3) Bicycle Safety – concerns were brought to attention; and the message regarded garbage cans that if all possible, do not put in it in the middle of the road, but leave it off on the shoulder of the road.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1.   Philips thanked Riviere for his outstanding work; and asked the date when the environmental impact study will begin and if there’s any setbacks. The State Department of Transportation is in the process of hiring a consultant by the end of this year and the environmental process will take a few years.

2.   Leinau shared two points regarding the EIS: a) that the City and County will need a shoreline management permit; and b) that the sequence should be locking in the land first before spending the money to do an EIS - should the land deal goes south, it would not be a waste of taxpayer dollars. Riviere reported that DLNR has gone on record to do a land swap with Kamehameha Schools to facilitate the process; whether it’s a direct sale or a land swap, those are the options.

3.   Awai asked whether the $1.2 million has been released by the Governor because the study cannot be done unless the Governor releases the funds. Riviere only knows that the study has been budgeted.

RESIDENTS’ CONCERNS:  Chair Lyons reminded everyone to be mindful of the three-minute time limit. While waiting for speakers to lineup, Chair Lyons made an announcement regarding an agricultural cluster housing development permit application for Kaala View Farm Lots on Kaukonahua Road. He received notice from DPP on July 9, requesting comment by July 18. DPP will accept late comments from individuals; call 768-8032 with any questions.

Miller raised concern regarding DPP’s application notice and asked that a letter be sent to DPP to consider a comment extension for the Board. Leinau moved to add to tonight’s agenda a request to send a letter to DPP; Lunasco seconded the motion. There were no objections, the motion was adopted by unanimous consent.

1. Tina Jensen is concerned that since the opening of the Poamoho Estates Agricultural Subdivision off Kaukonahua Road, 10 years ago, of the 15 lots sold, only two are agricultural (ag) related businesses. The zoning designation is Agricultural 1; there has been no monitoring to enforce the zoning and collect taxes due for properties in violation; and that the agricultural dedications are special use dedications for lower taxes on ag land. She is requesting there be a follow-up, enforcement on requirements for all ag zoned subdivisions; and that all one year agricultural dedications be stopped and a minimum of 5, 10 or 20 years dedications be enacted. In addition, the agricultural community for production has been hurt with the installation of a new bigger and better electronic gate.

            Comments followed: 1) Leinau commented that beyond the private gate is outside the Board’s kuleana,        and it seems that the property owners’ collectively would have something to say about the gate and would            hope that there could be some consensus. 2) Since 2003, Jensen has been told this is a civil matter, but     feels there are zoning and real property tax issues, an issue in the community is that there are fake farms       on the North Shore. She warns of another Poamoho development that just came up for review above the           ag station; and that they’re qualifications are looser. 3) Philips thanked and applauded Jensen for taking  the lead. She thinks it’s outrageous, a total travesty, and a complete breakdown of what’s happening to ag             lands. If it’s not possible for people to practice agriculture, than it’s more justification to change zoning. 4)         Lunasco asked if Jensen took her concern to the legislature and the City & County; Jensen was happy to     respond and read off a slue of elected officials, agencies and organizations. Lunasco agrees but the        neighborhood board cannot change the laws; and he is upset that this is the second gated community on        the North Shore. Jensen noted that the gates are opened during that daytime. 5) Another comment             regarded Bill 205, that associations cannot restrict access to agricultural land. Chair Lyons suggested that        Jensen talk to Representative Magaoay and the Remec, the Mayor’s representative. 6) Miller   recommended this matter on September’s agenda and invite DPP to come and give a report. Matsuura             moved, Riviere seconded to put this matter on September’s agenda. Matsuura said a complaint form was submitted asking DPP to check all the properties whether they are in violation of the ag dedication; he         is awaiting a response. The motion was adopted by unanimous consent, 15-0-0. 15-0-0. Aye:          Alameida, Andersen, Awai, Hirota, Leinau, Lunasco, Lyons, Matsuura, McElheny, Meade, Miller, Ng,             Philips, Riviere, and Scoville.

2.   John Otholt gave a brief history and expressed concerns of the sale of the Berger Estate property that was in his family for many years and more recently, was sold to developer Andy Anderson. There will be 26 lots, selling for $400,000 to $600,000 per lot. There will be a public hearing on Friday August 24, 2007, 10:30 a.m. at Pupukea Beach Park, 59-727 Kamehameha Highway.

Comments followed: 1) Meade mentioned this being a real concern and the community need to keep in touch. 2) There will be a public hearing on Friday August 24, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. at Pupukea Beach Park, 59-727     Kamehameha Highway.

3.   Paalaa Road resident, Omi Pearman, is concerned that motorists are speeding, doing 35 to 50 m.p.h., where the speed limit is 15 m.p.h. Some families have lost animals by people speeding. She fears the children that live on Paalaa Road are in danger and suggested speed bumps. Chair Lyons highlighted that there is a moratorium on traffic calming measures.

4.   Arlene Kawahakui noticed some fisherman throwing their catch back in the water at the harbor and asked    whether that it is legal. Not knowing the answer, Chair Lyons suggested checking the harbor master.

5.   Awai explained that in the past the Church used to open/close the gated access to Kamane Lane.   More recently, the church has decided to pave their own access to the church and is requesting to close   the access to Kamane Lane or put some sort of barrier to close off access to Kamane Lane. Matsuura      (Councilmember Dela Cruz’s office) will have to check on the City’s jurisdiction of Kamane Lane.

For clarification, Riviere questioned the location of Kamane Lane and verified that a lot of people use the lane for beach access. He also agreed that locking the access at night is feasible.

6.   Lunasco suggested that the Department of Land and Natural Resources update the rules of pole fishing.

7.   Miller announced that the North Shore Chamber of Commerce along local area businesses published a map of the North Shore and is available at the North Shore Chamber of Commerce and local businesses.  

8.   Alameida made the following announcements: a) on Saturday, August 4, Waialua Community Association   and Councilmember Dela Cruz will be the 30^th Aloha Aina Recycling Day from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; volunteers    are needed. b) On Saturday, August 18 from 3 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. will be the North Shore Cultural Festival at           the YMCA Camp Erdman. There will be a special presentation of the new Disney movie: “High School       Musical 2.” c) Waialua Community Association is looking for host families to house about 150 tourists that            want to share in the North Shore experience from August 10 – 14; information was available at the sign-in   table.

ELECTED OFFICIALS:  Elected officials were also asked to be mindful of the three-minute time limit.

Mayor's Representative – Alenka Remec announced: 1) The Mayor’s 2nd Annual Community Cleanup at Ali’i Beach Park. Registration is 7:30 to 8 a.m., cleanup is 8 – 11 a.m., and light lunch will be provided. 2) Banzai Skateboard Park – the Department of Design and Construction (DDC) is in close communication with the contractor and representatives of the skateboard community to see if there’s a way to involve Dreamland in the project. Discussions have center around a public/private partnership. 3) Kawailoa Beach Park – DDC is in the improvement planning process of the asbestos removal; and no other project has started in that area. 4) Turtle Bay Resort setback requests – that DPP feels that adequate safeguards are in place to address the presence of iwi on the site; and the State Historic Preservation Division’s (SHPD) recommendations for increasing setbacks for the project are non-regulatory, and therefore do not have the force and effect of the law; and would require legislative actions. In addition, the State Circuit Court has ruled that after a significant change of an improved scope of the project, there’s no statutory trigger for such legislative action. However, as the development proceeds the department will continue to monitor the existing zoning requirement. 5) Reliability of the Wahiawa Dam – needs to be referred to the State Department of Land and Natural Resources for follow-up. 

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. Philips thanked Remec for the Turtle Bay Resort setback follow-up, but added an article noted that the iwi would be treated as “inadvertent finds” and may require a supplemental Environmental Impact Statement. She would like to know what the position of the City is on this matter because it is an important distinction of how the iwi is treated. Remec’s reply was they are following the procedures set by statutory requirements and specific procedural safeguards established under the Hawaii Revised Statues (HRS) 6E-43.6 governing inadvertent discovery of unknown historic or burial sites.

      Riviere commented about the Circuit Court ruling that in making such a statement it would seem to infer       that the word is final word. But he thinks it’s important that everyone understands that that decision on           appeal and a long way from being finalized.

2.   Leinau said last week he heard that the second story of John Kalili Surf Center was going to be       demolished; Remec will look into the into it.

Board of Water Supply – George Kuo reported: 1) one main break on June 23 at 67-225 Farrington Highway of a 50 year old, 8-inch cast iron main. 2) General Water Announcements: a) While Oahu has experienced a dryer than normal winter and rainfall totals are expected to remain lower than normal, there is no current cause for concern. Unlike other islands, Oahu does not rely on surface water or catchment systems that react quickly to rainfall to supply our water. Everyone was reminded to use water wisely, use what you need but don’t waste. If drought conditions continue, conserving now will help to prolong the need to call for more stringent conservation measures. b) As a reminder, please be careful during brushfire season. Brush fires not only put a strain on the Honolulu Fire Department, but it also puts a strain on our water resources. c) The 19th annual “Unthirsty Plant” sale, Saturday, August 4, 2007 at the Halawa Xeriscape gardens, 99-1268 Iwaena Street from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more information contact BWS at 478-5041.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. In reply to Leinau, Kuo did and knew of tracking trend lines of only major contaminants, and that he did not think that other lower level contaminants were tracked. But if it did start to be a significant trend then certainly it would be tracked.

2. Andersen asked about the status of the repair of the pipe on the Anahulu Bridge. Kuo will have to follow-up on the status. Matsuura commented that it was to be removed to below the bridge to get it away from the sidewalk area. Kuo recalls a bridge improvement project with the City and BWS. Miller clarified being told by the Mayor of a project to move the pipe under the bridge and she would like to have an update. 

City Council Member Donovan Dela Cruz – Reed Matsuura reported on the following: 1) Recycling Projects – Kahaluu Key Project Metal Recycling Project on July 7th at Kahaluu’s Regional Park was a great success with tons of metal collected. b) On Saturday, August 4 will be the Waialua “Moku” Recycling event from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mahalo to Jon Marr (WCA), Kalani Fronda (Kamehameha Schools), and Rene Mansho, (Schnitzer Steel) for organizing the community benefit event. The funds will go to maintenance and upkeep of the historic building. Councilmember Dela Cruz mailed over 5,000 post cards detailing this event. 2) Resident Concern responses: a) HPD will monitor more carefully and more frequently, the drug paraphernalia issue at Haleiwa Alii Beach Park. b) HPD is having problems getting enough qualified recruits and trouble keeping our current officers here on Oahu. c) Trash pickup for areas are still being done manually is because the automated trucks cannot fit down some of the narrow roadways; and there is a need for automated back loader. d) There is a request to cleanup Pake Ditch from Paalaa Road to Paukawila Stream and to remove the illegal culvert in this area. 3) Banzai Rock Skateboard Facility – the skateboard community, the Department of Design and Construction and PER, Inc., are trying to work out something that will satisfy the users of this facility. 4) Sunset Beach Recreational Center – members of the Sunset Beach Community Association are reviewing the plans and specifications that were dropped off on July 18, 2007. Their next meeting is slated for September 19 and DDC is being asked to send a representative to answer questions. 5) Come and enjoy the Waialua Hongwanji Bon Dance on Saturday, August 4, 2007 at 7 p.m.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. Hirota asked that Councilmember Dela Cruz revisit and come up with a solution regarding the issue of upgrading and bringing to code, the second floor of the Surf Center. Matsuura had been in discussion with Dana Takahashi-Dias, Parks Department, on what the plans might be; and inquires from private entities were also interested and willing to do the job. The problem is an RFP (request for proposal) process is necessary. Matsuura will look into the matter and get back in September.

2. Lunasco directed to Councilmember Dela Cruz and the Mayor – when will the City get into real H-Power? H-Power takes only good rubbish, and much of what goes to Waimanalo Gulch can be burned, yet rubbish is still being dumped at Waimanalo Gulch. Matsuura explained the problem is H-Power operates only on two boilers, are not consistent when in need of downtime for maintenance; and the issue to bring a third boiler to have it consistently running. Matsuura will take that issue back to the Councilmember.

3. A resident recommended putting out the RFP to the private sector for the second floor upgrade of John Kalili Surf Center; and that there would be an excellent response to the RFP if it were let out.

4. Philips thanked Matsuura for the copy of the proposed rules for surfing contests. The problem is the first event starts in October and the schedule probably has not been issued. Unless the city and state knows how of a way to issue three year permits, like other sporting events, there’s no way that sponsors, community, and the international athletics can leverage Hawaii’s gift to the world, “surfing” and make this issue work for everyone; and urged the administration to strongly consider the benefits of issuing three year permits.      

Governor's Representative – Galen Yoshimura reported: 1) BG Ishikawa is away but will be attending the upcoming Special Meeting. He distributed the Governor’s Weekly Update, and another handout, “Facts About Economy Counter Legislators’ Gloomy Scenario”, and was open to questions.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. Meade wanted to say “Mahalo” to Scott Ishikawa, State Department of Transportation, on the Waimea rock slide issue – looking at safety issues, working with the community and getting the project done in a short time; Yoshimura will pass the message along.

2. Chair Lyons commented on Ishikawa’s pre-notification efforts before the projects commenced.

State Senator Robert Bunda – No representative was present; no report available.

State Representative Michael Magaoay – Representative Magaoay had nothing new to report but echoed on an issue that’s come in committee, Water, Land, Agricultural and Hawaiian Affairs, of ag lands and making sure lands in rural areas are preserved; and also a bill that was vetoed this past session, will be pursued again to buy land in Kunia for preservation.    

Leinau did not understand where the terminology of agricultural land is leading. Magaoay explained they are looking at all stakeholders – farmers, environmentalists, and developers to make sure that agricultural land is preserved, that state legislators are educated and understand the process, that having the State Land Use Commission involved because of their interpretation of how the land should be divided, and that the City’s DPP is only enforcing what the state does. But the question more often asked is what areas are considered rural, agricultural and conservation lands.

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono – Carl Takamura: 1) ­­­­congratulated all board members, including the newest member, Andersen and former colleague, Lunasco. 2) Highlighted on the discussion of agricultural lands, which has gone for years and hopes a consensus and a resolution can be reached. 2) The Congresswoman has been very active with meetings five days a week. The second congressional district is the largest and most diverse area, encompasses all the neighbor islands, the stretch from Waimanalo north and around to Kapolei; and will try to get out into the communities whenever possible. 3) The communication efforts to stay in touch with the community is: the recent release of the Congresswoman’s first newsletter describing activities and issues dealing with; a redesigned website: www.hirono.house.gov with all press releases, information about issues going on in congress, etc.; and an e-newsletter to raise your questions and ideas; go to the website and signup. 4) Congresswoman Hirono requested $300,000 cost share in the appropriations budget for the watershed project; unfortunately, that budget did not make the appropriations bill; Congresswoman will be submitting this bill again and hopes to get more support from the U.S. Administration; both the local Army Corp of Engineers and the State have been supportive.     

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. Lunasco said a major problem is whether the federal government would allow Drum Road to be used as a bypass route in the event of the closure of Kamehameha Highway during an emergency. The North Shore in particular, thinking back when Waimea Bay was closed and there was no alternative but to go around the island. If Drum Road is opened, the public will be able to access up to Pupukea, Wahiawa, Kawailoa and Haleiwa Town. He asked to please take this concern back and to keep in touch with the Army; Takamura acknowledged the request.

2.   Ng referred to the “no child left behind” program that has been totally under funded and as a consequence,    the schools have suffered. What is the Congresswoman’s position whether to reinstate or to kill it? The Congresswoman is on the Education and Labor Committee and the two issues she is most concerned     about: a) that the “no child left behind” program needs to be revived drastically. By measuring each    individual child’s progress as opposed to a set standard disregards that efforts the teacher and child are          making due to rigid standards and therefore they are labeled as failure schools; and b) early childhood         education. So the effort would be looking more at how to improve the programs.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  None

NEW BUSINESS/PRESENTATION: There were no objections to taking the agenda out of order.

Presentation: Koolauloa Community Health and Wellness Center (KCHWC) Update – Chuck Braden, Executive Director of the Koolauloa Community Health and Wellness Center, presented a 10-minute video that describes what the community health center does here in Hawaii. KCHWC is one of thirteen community health centers, in the State of Hawaii, one of 1500 in the U.S. The service area is from Kualoa to Waimea Bay however, KCHWC patients come in from around the entire island, as well as international tourist and surfers. The clinic has 3500 patients and the size of the clinic is half the size of this building. The services provided are from family health, physical examinations, health screening, family planning, minor surgery, immunizations, mental health counseling, podiatry, native Hawaiian healing and home visiting.  KCHWC wants to be the catalyst for health and wellness, social cohesion and economic development; and their vision is – knowledgeable people united to create a vibrant and proactive community. 

Braden noted that the one misconception about community health centers across the country is that they are free clinics. They are not a free clinic; payment for services accepted includes cash, most medical insurances including Medicare, Medicaid and MedQuest and the fee is based on your ability to pay. But if you have no insurance and need medical care - no one will be turned away.

Presentation: Kaiaka Watershed Projects - Pam Mills-Packo presented Kaiaka Watershed which is about 52,000 acres draining into the central and northern part of the island. The area, in the lower part of the watershed is about 21,000 acres and which is currently not eligible to receive funding from the Clean Water Act because the State now prioritizes the watersheds and Kaiaka has not been prioritized. 

In the upper watershed area flows from the Koolau Mountains of Mount Ka’ala and where the issue begins with the non-point source pollution when it rains and eroding the soil. In the middle, are Wahiawa, Schofield Barracks and Lake Wilson that receives the upper watershed non-point source pollution that flows through the community, picking up residential trash, rubbish and becoming concentrated in the lower watershed. Coupled with tsunami and hurricane threats, there’s a huge flood risk and cumulative pollution going all into Kaiaka bay. Some findings include sustainability; participation and internal commitments to address flood risks, come up with a restorative action, prioritize and make contributions to other areas to improve specifics sites, and the need for the government to implement on a large scale, multipurpose flood and pollution initiatives, and practice best management principals and learn from examples.

Ng commended Dr. Mills-Packo and the professors from the University of Hawaii for a fabulous job. He asked representatives from the Army Corp of Engineers and Congressional leaders to say a few words.

Derrick Chow with the Army Corps of Engineers and Senator Dan Inouye’s Office was present to respond to a letter received from the Board requesting information on the status of getting a Kaiaka Bay Watershed Project utilizing the Corp of Engineering federal assistance; and for information on the dam break study of Wahiawa Dam. a) Kaiaka Bay Watershed Project – has been propose for multiple years for the Corp of Engineers budget; and due to constrained budgets, have not much luck getting a new start; however, will continue through the Corp and Senate Committee channels. Chow encourages improving the importance of this study through a multi-mediacy partnership. b) Wahiawa Dam Break study – Senator Inouye was successful in getting $2 million appropriated under the emergency supplemental appropriations. And along with DLNR, 11 dams throughout the state have been identified and investigated in detail of the hazards should there be a breech. Agency officials are working on models and studies and are currently preparing an analyst.   

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. The Wahiawa Dam is one of the eleven dams identified. Chow emphasized that they are not predicting when the dam will fail, only saying if it does fail under whatever conditions, the area below that is going to be affected is the information that will be provided.
2. Eric Hirano, Chief Engineer, DLNR said there are two staff members current and are trying to fill two more positions. Recently, the legislature did give additional funding resources and are carrying outside consultants to do additional inspections.

Ng offered a motion to the Board for consideration. Ng moved that the North Shore Neighborhood Board supports the preliminary findings of the University of Hawaii Manoa’s Kaiaka Bay Watershed Participatory Assessment and Action Project and recommends that immediate action be taken by appropriate government agencies, in coordination with concerned residents, to prioritize and restore Kaiaka Bay streams and to enforce existing government rules, regulations, and laws relating to flood mitigation, soil erosion and sediment control, public and private property owners responsibilities to maintain streams and drainage systems, water, soil contamination, and disaster preparedness; Philips seconded the motion.   Discussion followed: 1) Leinau agrees with this letter but asked who the recipient of this letter is. Ng said the letter shall be sent to appropriate government agencies to implement the intent of the motion. Chair Lyons will be notified of those recipients. The motion was adopted by unanimous consent, 15-0-0. Aye: Alameida, Andersen, Awai, Hirota, Leinau, Lunasco, Lyons, Matsuura, McElheny, Meade, Miller, Ng, Philips, Riviere, and Scoville.

Motion to approve $200 proposal for videotaping – Moved and seconded by Leinau Meade. The motion was adopted by unanimous consent, 15-0-0. Aye: Alameida, Andersen, Awai, Hirota, Leinau, Lunasco, Lyons, Matsuura, McElheny, Meade, Miller, Ng, Philips, Riviere, and Scoville.

Motion to invite DPP and the Land Use Commission to report on agricultural property use, zoning laws and enforcement at September’s meeting. Moved and seconded by Miller and Philips. The motion was adopted by unanimous consent, 15-0-0. Aye: Alameida, Andersen, Awai, Hirota, Leinau, Lunasco, Lyons, Matsuura, McElheny, Meade, Miller, Ng, Philips, Riviere, and Scoville.

CORRESPONDENCE AND CHAIR'S REPORT:  Chair Lyons thanked board members Ng and Meade for helping to coordinate the presentation on the Kaiaka Watershed Project and the Koolauloa Community Health and Wellness Center update.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:  The following announcements were made:

• The Special Meeting on the Homeless will be held on Tuesday, July 31, 2007, 7:00 p.m. at John Kalili Surf Center.
• On Saturday, August 4, 2007 there will be the Alii Beach Park Cleanup by the City; the Recycling Program by WCA; the Waialua Hongwanji Bon Dance, and the 175th Annual Luau for the Liliuokalani Protestant Church from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. on the church grounds. Tickets will also be available on the church grounds.
• The Board will RECESS in August. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 25, 2007, 7:00 p.m. at the John Kalili Surf Center.

ADJOURNMENT:  Without any objections, the meeting adjourned at 9:36 p.m.

Submitted by, Marie Richardson, Neighborhood Assistant