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NORTH SHORE NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

TUESDAY MAY 22, 2007

JOHN KALILI SURF CENTER

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Mike Lyons called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. A quorum was achieved. 

MEMBERS’ PRESENT: Jeff Alameida, John Hirota, Oliver Lunasco, Jacob Ng, Dan Gora, Mike Lyons, Carol Philips, Warren Scoville, Bob Leinau, Blake McElheny, Antya Miller, Doug Cole.

MEMBERS’ ABSENT: Jimmy Awai, Alfredo Antonio, Kathleen Pahinui.

GUESTS: Alenka Remic Mayor’s Representative), Reed Matsuura (Councilmember Donovan Dela Cruz’s office), General Gary Ishikawa (Governor’s Representative), Laura Figueiroa (Senator Robert Bunda’s office), Captain John Bredin (HFD), Lt. Doug Beerman (HPD), Captain Kalama (U.S. Army), George Kuo (BWS), Corlyn Orr (HHF Planners), Rolanse Crisfulli (DCS-OWIB), Kahe O’Neil (UH), Galen Yoshimoto (State DOD), Kalani Fronda (KSBE), K. Van Der Leedon (HESD), Ron Nishihara and Mark Takemoto (Castle & Cooke), Stew Ring (Mokuleia Community Association), Kaika Ragragola (Waialua Community Association); Bruce Bellows, Scott Belluomini, Mary Brewer, James Cuizon, S. Joe Estores, Bob Fox, Mary Lou Gora, Clinton Haness, Arlene and H. Kawahakui, Pam Mills-Packo, Nina Puhipau, Gil Riviere, Thomas Shirai, Patrick Vega; Vanessa Matautia (Neighborhood Commission Office staff). 

APPROVAL OF February 27, 2007 and March 27, 2007 MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR MINUTES: 

Leinau moved and Hirota seconded to approve February 27, 2007 minutes with the following corrections:

• Page 1, under guests, correction of “John Schuer”.
• Page 8, under Philips, replace “lifeguard stands” with “lifeguard towers”.
• Page 8, under Scoville, stated that the lifeguard towers were unmanned.

The motion carried unanimously.

Leinau moved and Hirota seconded to approve the March 27, 2007 minutes as submitted. The motion carried unanimously.

TREASURER’S REPORT – Dan Gora gave the following reports: The April statement held a previous balance of $2,002.78 with current expenses totaling $344.44 including printing, mail out, miscellaneous postage and video taping charges for March and April.  The remaining balance was $1,658.34.

Leinau moved Philips seconded to approve the treasurer’s report. The motion carried unanimously.

REPORTS FROM HONOLULU POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS:

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – Lt. Beerman gave the following report:

• Statistics for April 2007: There were 8 auto vehicle recoveries, 7 graffiti cases, 8 motor vehicle thefts, 14 unauthorized entry into motor vehicle and 5 burglaries.

• Highlights:  a) Lt. Beerman wanted to thank the anonymous phone call HPD received this past weekend regarding a person who was graffiti on the Waialua Bridge.  Officers responded and made an arrest of the person in question. b) Traffic enforcement has been increased and Lt. Beerman asked the community to remember the rules of the road.

Questions, comments and concerns:

1. Leinau stated that Kaena point deserved more police presence and suggested that the City make plans with the community in order for keeping it clean and orderly.

2. Miller commented that it was a concern for much of the North Shore that with an estimated 6,800 tourists visit the area each day and an estimated 2.4 million visit each year, there would be more services provided.  Beach parties that break out into altercations are left unresponded to because there are not enough police.  Lt. Beerman stated that there are four beats but it was a concern that they would also like more police officers and suggested once again that constituents of the North Shore contact their City Council members in order to request more funding for police officers.

3. Alameida stated that the Waialua Community Association and the Waialua High School recently had a graffiti pain out and thanked the HPD for their assistance as it was a great success.

4. Lunasco commented about drug dealers who frequented Jack in the Box restaurant in Waialua do much of their business out in the open.  He questioned if it was possible that the use of undercover officers be used to help arrest several of them.  Lt. Beerman stated that he would report the request to drug officers but requested that if any incidents of drug dealing are observed to call 911 immediately.

5. A resident stated during the summer there are an estimated 150 kids in the park due to the summer fun program.  Residents and park personnel have sound needles and other drug paraphernalia because of the people who frequent the park at night, they questioned why a police car could not hold more of a presence at the park.

6. A resident from Waialua stated that in the park near St Michael’s Church, they have found small baggies and cotton swabs used for drug use.  They also stated that a known drug house is located near the park but when officers are called, there was no drug use in the area.

7. Ng stated that there was a problem on the North Shore, throughout all of the North Shore.  He believed that a formal request to the drug taskforce be made and a joint effort be made by the community, business owners and police.

8. Lyons stated that the Waikiki police station is staffed at 120% to 130% on regular but the North Shore regularly goes manned with only 80% of needed staff.  He questioned if more police officers could be shuffled down to the North Shore.

9. A resident questioned about the Beach taskforce that once had a great presence on the North Shore and where did it go because he had not seen it in some time. Lt. Beerman stated that it was not seen every day but there is an 8 member team which is able to come out several times a week.  The resident stated that they had called Councilmember Dela Cruz but had not gotten a phone call back and Chair Lyons stated that the resident get in contact with Reed Matsuura who was the representative for the Councilmember.

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – Capt. John Bredin from the Haleiwa Fire Station gave the following report:

• Fire Statistics for April 2007: There were three brush fires, two rubbish fires, two vehicle fires, three search and rescue calls, two automobile accidents and 19 medical calls.

• Fire Safety Tip: Fire escape plan should be made for each house hold and all occupants should know the plan in order to ensure all will be prepared in case of a real emergency.

Questions, comments and concerns:

1. Ng gave a report regarding the Honolulu Fire Commission and of the 12 potential sites looked at and six have made the next cut.  There is progress being made and a presentation will be made soon.

2. Lyons questioned about the recent drowning that happened at Waimea falls and how the Sunset fire station did not have any scuba gear.  He questioned why a fire station in such an area like the North Shore would not have scuba gear on hand.  Captain Bredin stated that there are specialized rescue groups but are trying to expand this and the department at this time is trying to facilitate this as soon as possible.

3. Hirota questioned if the fire department inspects different dwellings because there is an abandoned building near the Waialua commerce building that looks like it is a fire hazard.  Captain Bredin stated that if the building is unoccupied, the fire department will not inspect but Hirota stated that the roof seems to be nearly fallen in and is concerned that vandals with burn the structure down.

U.S. ARMY 25^TH INFANTRY DIVISION (ID) – Captain Kalama from the 25^th Infantry Division gave the following report:

• Deployment highlights:  There are currently 7,000 soldiers deployed from Schofield Barracks in Iraq and recently were told that the 12 month deployment would be extended to 15 month deployments.

• Waianae Coast Munitions meeting: Tad Davis, deputy assistant secretary of the Army for environmental safety and occupational health will be present at a special meeting on the Waianae Coast regarding the dumped munitions in Waianae coast waters on June 8.  He will be speaking on the recently finished study done by NOAA and reported to the Army that is available online and at local public libraries.  The meeting will be from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Nanaikapono Elementary School cafeteria.

Questions, comments and concerns:

1. Gil Riviere questioned about the EIS study done for the Stryker Brigade and if residents were welcome to the meeting.  Captain Kalama stated that the meeting would be by invitation only.

2. Leinau questioned about Drum Road and if a monthly update would be provided to the Board.

3. A resident questioned about the use of uranium bullets used in training because they are used in wartime as armor piercing and whether there was any impact to them in the environment.

4. Miller questioned about an article in the newspaper recently made and stated if the Army could clarify about what exactly are depleted uranium bullets.

TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE: Gil Riviere gave the following report –

• Status of Transportation plan: There are currently 100 projects being reviewed by OMPO with funding including Kawela Stream bridge and the Kuilima road and highway expansion.  By 2010, there are plans to fix the Puamoho bridge on Kamehameha highway. 

• Waimea bay rockfall mitigation:  There are three plans for rockfall mitigation at the cost of $3.3 million for Kahuku, Wahiawa and Waimea.  The Kahuku side of Waimea falls is the dangerous area and funding has been earmarked for rock fall mitigation in order to correct the problems.

• Shoreline protection projects: Kawailoa plan includes safety improvements made to the area.  There are 3 other plans that are being reviewed and by 2011, there will be wetland enhancements that are not included in transportation plans. 

• Laniakea realignment project: Currently planned for next week is a meeting with community and state representative to possibly receive $1.2 million earmarked for the EIS report that is needed for the area.

• Haleiwa Beachwalk survey:  A non-scientific survey was done of the business owners in the Haleiwa mainstream area and 70% of the merchants responded to the survey with nearly 78% of them responding positively to potential plans.

Questions, comments and concerns:

1. Leinau questioned whether funding for the rock mitigation was lumped together with other projects and believed that if it was, there would not be enough funding to go around.  Riviere restated that he believed the Waimea project has $10 million earmarked for it alone.
2. Thomas Shirai stated on the Kahuku side of Waimea bay right before the Tanaka Store would be where they had

RESIDENTS CONCERNS: Chair Lyons requested that speakers keep to the 3-minute time limit:

Kaiaka Bay Watershed Study - Pam Mills-Packo believes there must be an agency prioritization especially with the Department of Health and the Environmental Protection Agency from start to finish.  There currently is a base plan for the watershed study that must be coordinated with the federal, state and local funds in order to work on restoration work. Mills-Packo believed that a “can-do” attitude was needed for environmental work in order to provide for the health and safety of the North Shore community. She can be reached at 232-5820.

Concerns and comments followed: 1) Miller requested that a letter be drafted by the Board to take to the next meeting with Chair Acohido of the Wahiawa Neighborhood Board. 2) Ng stated that the problem lies with funding being stalled at different levels, federal funds stuck with Department of Health that needed to be given to the City and County for watershed improvements.

Ng moved and Miller seconded to have a letter drafted by the next Board’s meeting to request that these funds be freed as soon as possible in order to continue work on watershed improvement.  The motion carried unanimously.

North Shore Beaches – Mills-Packo said there isn’t any beaches on the North Shore closed because of wastewater treatment plant. There is a risk of overflow. The engineering design is based on mainland models.

Formal Apology Letter – Thomas Shirai mentioned he finally received a formal apology letter from the State Department of Transportation (DOT), new Director Barry Fukunaga, regarding iwi discovered by the Army at the Dillingham Air Field. There will be no additional excavations.

Hawaiian Mural – Clinton Haness is proposing to paint a cultural depiction mural at the Pupukea Recreation Center. The mural is a gift to the community. He presented this project to the Sunset Beach Community Association (SBCA) and they supported it.

Leinau moved and Philips seconded that the North Shore Neighborhood Board No. 27 support painting a mural at the Pupukea Recreation Center in concept. The motion carried, 10-0-2. Nay: Miller, Ng.

Bonzai Rock Skate Park – James Cuizon presented Reed Matsuura of Councilmember Dela Cruz’s office, with a petition supporting the completion of Bonzai Rock Skate Park. The project is taking far too long. Skaters have no where to go. James noted that if the City can’t some up with the money, they can. Matsuura indicated there has been been problems with the contractor. McElheny said the North Shore deserves better.

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) – Nina Puhipau wants a GMO-free North Shore, GMO-free O’ahu, and a GMO-free Hawai’i. There are more GMO permits in Hawai’i than anywhere else in the world. She encouraged everyone to research the subject. In addition, she asked to be placed on a future agenda.

Maintenance/Signage – Arlene Kawahakui requested that the banyan trees on Pala Road be trimmed and the dead branches removed. Also, the signage near her home needs to be replaced. Matsuura will follow-up.

Water Quality – As a follow-up to Mills-Packo, McElheny said he would like to know the following:  the data on water quality, septic tanks versus sewers, and how much it will cost. 

ELECTED OFFICIALS

Mayor’s Representative – Alenka Remec reported: 1) She circulated the “Mayor’s Midterm Report”. Copies of the report will be available in Midweek and the Honolulu Advertiser. 2) Follow-up: under the new proposal you can request a second trash bin (to be picked up on the same day). If you want a second terah pick up (within the same week), you will be assessed $10. The proposal still needs to be approved by the City Council. 3) Beach cleanup in the North Shore area: June 12 – Pupukea comfort station; August 4 – Waimea Bay.

Questions, comments and concerns: 1) Remec stated the City plans to build a new recreation center for Sunset Beach. 2) Ng had reiterated his concerns regarding grading at Kaukonahua Road. The berm is 10-feet high which creates erosion problems. It’s a major problem that the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) needs to look into. Remec will follow-up. 3) Lunasco indicated he requested a second bin several times, but he still haven’t received one. He also has concerns about the $10 fee. Remic will follow-up.

Board of Water Supply – George Kuo reported: 1) Main breaks: 0 – February, 1 – March, 0 – in April. 2) El Nino conditions is expected to last for the next three to six months. As a result, there will be 60 percent of normal rainfall. 3) Detect-a-Leak Week will be observed June 3-9. 4) Water Safety Tips: keep showers to five minutes or less; water your plants only when necessary; and install low-flow toilets ($100 rebate available). 5) Consumer Confidence Reports will be mailed out shortly.

Without any objections, Chair Lyons took the New Business items out of order.

NEW BUSINESS

North Shore Sustainable Communities Plan – Corlyn Orr, HHF Planners, gave a brief update on the North Shore Sustainable Communities Plan. The document can be viewed on the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) website or at the City’s Municipal Library. The plan is based on a vision of 2020; to retain its rural character, open space, coastal resources, and agricultural lands. This plan was first proposed in 1997-1998 and approved by the City Council in 2000. The City Charter requires a review every five years (this is the first review). An advisory committee consisting of 20-25 individuals will be created. Public workshops/community meetings will be held. To get on the mailing list, email at info@hhf.com or call 768-8036. She will be back to give updates.

Chamber of Commerce Proposal to Move Telephone Exchange Building to Waialua Community Association – Bob Fox, an architect/planner and long-time advocate of preservation of the North Shore, stated the Chamber of Commerce is planning to relocate the Telephone Exchange Building from the Ace Hardware site to the Waialua Community Association (WCA) at Weed Junction. It’s a 900-square foot building. They will need a Historical Preservation Permit and a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). He asked for the Board’s support.

Concerns and comments included: 1) Fox answered the land lease is with WCA. 2) Fox responded the building will not be visible from the highway. 3) Kaika Ragragola of WCA said they voted unanimously to move the building. WCA would like to see the community use the building, specifically the Chamber of Commerce. 4) Kalani Fronda of KSBE explained the difference between space lease versus ground lease. The risk to WCA is very minimal. There will be a synergy of community groups working together. 5) Ng asked to look at business sites instead of community sites. 6) Ron Nishihara of Castle & Cooke stated what is presented is a concept. It is new to him. He will find out what are the restrictions. 6) Miller mentioned that she read the deed. 7) Philips had concerns about the aesthetics of the building. 8) Cole, Leinau and Alameida all supported the proposal.

Alameida moved and Scoville seconded that the North Shore Neighborhood Board No. 27 strongly support the Chamber of Commerce building permit application. Discussion ensued. Ng moved and Lunasco seconded to defer the motion. The motion to defer failed, 3-8-1. Discussion on the original motion continued. Call for the Question. The original motion carried, 8-4-0.  

The agenda resumed regular order.

ELECTED OFFICIALS, Continued

Councilmember Donovan Dela Cruz – Reed Matsuura circulated Councilmember Dela Cruz’s monthly report and highlighted the following RISR’s (Request for Investigation and Service Report): 1) Crosswalks at Goodale Avenue and Kealohanui Road. 2) Crossing guards for Sunset Beach Elementary. 3) Complaints regarding motorcycles using Waialua Beach Road Bike Path. 4) Replace blinking lights at Kaukonahua Road and Thompson Road. 5) Relocate blinking lights at Waialua Elementary. 6) Install ditch railings along Waialua Beach Road. 7) Signage and barriers will be installed  at Waialua Beach.

Concerns and comments followed: 1) Matsuura responded that Councilmember Dela Cruz is still trying to get additional officers for this district. He encouraged the community to call 911 when you have a police matter and make a report. The number of 911 calls correlates to the number of officers needed. 2) Matsuura answered there were tax credits to help out cesspool owners, but it was only for a six-month period. McElheny asked if it will be available for private residents. Matsuura will follow-up.

Governor’s Representative – General Gary Ishikawa circulated the “Governor’s Update” and highlighted the following: 1) He apologized for missing last month’s meeting, as he was in Washington, D.C. Next month, he will be on the East Coast. 2) A robotics rally was held one week ago. Waialua High School was one of the schools that held a robotics demonstration. The Governor is working on a regional event for next year. 3) The State just completed hurricane preparedness exercises. Hurricane season begins June 1. Forecasters are predicting two to three hurricanes.

Concerns and comments followed: 1) Lunasco thanked the State for its recycling program. However, he has concerns that the redemption centers will not redeem bottles with no labels. 2) Ng mentioned that Waialua High School has had a robotic program for the past five years and they recently placed second nationally. 3) Chair Lyons asked why does boat owners have to pay road rax (ethanol gasoline) when they don’t use the road. General Ishikawa will follow-up.

Senator Robert Bunda – Laura Figueiroa reported: 1) The Legislature adjourned May 3. A lot of attention was focused on the budget. HB 500 appropriated $10.3 billion for FY 07-08 and $10.5 billion for FY 08-09. There is $1.2 million to realign Kamehameha Highway and $100,000 to the Chamber of Commerce for disaster preparedness. 2) Kahuku Hospital is safe from bankruptcy.

Representative Michael Magaoay –A representative from Representative Magaoay’s office reported: 1) Representative Magaoay’s newsletter will be out by the end of the month, while the legislative highlights will be available mid-June. 2) If anyone has any concerns, please call 586-6380.

Congresswoman Mazie Hirano – No report.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: The next Regular Meeting of the North Shore Neighborhood Board No. 27 will be held on Tuesday, June 26, 7:00 p.m. at the John Kalili Surf Center.

ADJOURNMENT: Without any objections, the meeting was adjourned at 8:48 p.m.

Submitted by

Vanessa Matautia

Neighborhood Assistant

Steve J. Rodrigues

Neighborhood Assistant