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NORTH SHORE NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2007 

JOHN KALILI SURF CENTER

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

MEMBERS PRESENT:  Jeffrey Alameida, 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:  Leif Andersen, Jimmy Awai, Reed Matsuura and Blake McElheny.

GUESTS:  Galen Yoshimoto (Department of Defense), Thomas Shirai, Joe Estores, Jim Frisbee, Stew Ring (Mokuleia Community Association), Norris Sandvold (Sand Sea), Alenka Remec (Mayor’s Representative), Alfredo Antonio, Ati-Jeffers-Fabro (Wildlife Society), Toni Sickler, Mr. & Mrs. Roy Rssoyan, Bruce Bellows, Sally Youngblood and Linda Bard (North Shore Outdoor Circle), Kim Ribellia (Councilmember Dela Cruz Office staff), Judy Fomin (Representative Magaoay’s Office staff), Tinker Bloomfield, Joanne Pettigrew (Malama Na Honu), Diane Anderson (North Shore Outdoor Circle), Mark Takemoto (Dole / Castle & Cooke), Paul and Judith Nelson, Pastor Sage Chee and Rochelle Hendry (Ohana FLG), Lindsay Young (TWS-HI), Dawn Greenlee, Dan Quinn (Department of Land and Natural Resources – State Parks), Maxi Moto, George Kuo (Board of Water Supply), Gary Gill (Hi’ilei Aloha), Jonathan Scheuer (Office of Hawaiian Affairs), Kalani Fronda (Kamehameha Schools), Ka’ula Chun, Capt. Kalama (U.S. Army 25th Infantry), Capt. Brian Emmons (Honolulu Fire Department), Lt. Benjamin Ballesteros (Honolulu Police Department), Margaret Chun, Resident Joan, and Marie Richardson (Neighborhood Commission Office staff). 

APPROVAL OF THE REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2007:  The September 25, 2007 regular meeting minutes were approved as corrected by unanimous consent, 13-0-0.  included:

·         Page 4, under Pupukea Ridge Preservation Project Update, line 6, Malakua should be spelled Malukua;

·         Page 5, under Advocate for Middle Schools, line 5, Wailua should be spelled Waialua;

·         Page 5, under Haleiwa Beach Park, line 4, Sgt. Ballesteros should be Lt. Ballesteros.

TREASURER'S REPORT: Leinau reported for September, the opening balance was $3,718.45, current expense is $66.61, leaving a balance to-date of $3,651.84. Lunasco moved, Hirota seconded to accept the Treasurer’s report for filing. The motion carried by unanimous consent.

REPORTS FROM HONOLULU POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS:

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – Lt. Ballesteros reported: 1) 16 burglaries, 24 unauthorized entries to motor vehicles (UEMV), 36 thefts, 8 auto thefts. 2) Other highlights included: a motor vehicle collision (critical) on Kaukonahua Road on September 5 at 7:03 a.m.; a robbery at 66-437 Kamehameha Highway and assault on police at 66-135 Kamehameha Highway on September 9 at 10:35 a.m.; an assault 2nd (felony) at 67-400 block Haona Street in Waialua on September 17 at 8 p.m.; an unattended death at 67-292 Goodale Avenue of a 59 year old male with no local address on September 27 at 7 a.m.; and an unauthorized entry into a dwelling at 66-800 block Kaupe Road, September 27, approximately 6 p.m.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1.   Incidents of attack usually occur between individuals that know each other or are domestically related. To keep from becoming a victim, refrain from escalating the situation and walk away.

2.   Speeding is a perennial problem in Waialua and Haleiwa, especially by big trailer trucks. Lt. Ballesteros agreed the problem is visible. At best, HPD can continue monitoring efforts of problematic areas and issuing citations by clocking, laser or visibility measures.

3.   Margaret Chun raised concern about speeders on Paalaa Road where there are no sidewalks. Due the narrow road, enforcement is difficult. Lt. Ballesteros will have the area monitored. Lyons noted that Paalaa Road is well-traveled and citations should get the message to motorists.  Lunasco commented being amazed that Kailua has speed bumps on a main thoroughfare.  Remec will further comment on this issue under the Mayor’s report

4.   A resident raised concerns about the excessive backup of traffic to the first stop light on the bypass last Saturday. Due to the start of surf season, it was suggested that police officers can assist with keeping traffic moving. In response, there was no blockage in area, just traffic moving slower than usual; responding officers were also delayed. Lunasco said that the congestion is near Laniakea where the turtles are at and unless that problem is resolved, surfing will only compound the problem, and suggested the Traffic and Transportation Committee look at the situation.

5.   When the surf is up, there are more people at Crozier Drive. Thomas Shirai suggested continued patrols, preferably in the late evenings, would help to deter motorists from cruising with their car stereos up high.

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – Responding to a fire call.

U.S. ARMY 25TH INFANTRY DIVISION: Capt. Kalama reported: 1) Signs have been installed at Army Beach and more patrols are being reorganized during peak hours to monitor the dumping. 2) Drum Road Update: Phase 1 (7.1 miles) began February 2006, is 67% complete and estimated to be complete by September 2008. Phase 2 (16.2 miles) is estimated to be completed by December 2011. Drum Road construction is not a Stryker military construction project and has its own environmental assessment. This project will allow all military vehicles to drive from Helemano Military Reservation to the Kahuku Training area, staying off all public roads and highways. The road is not owned by the military, but there is an easement agreement with Dole Foods, Kamehameha Schools, Bishop Estate, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and the State.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. Lunasco passed several convoys this month using Kaukonahua Road. Capt. Kalama said she saw email to the Division Command stating that there will be no military vehicle/convoys on Kaukonahua Road, and she will follow up.

2.   Lunasco reported that the gate near Kemoo Farm is creating traffic congestion to and from Waialua on Kaukonahua Road and Wilikina Drive. According to Capt. Kalama the congestion is due to units are returning and going through mandatory briefings, and she will follow-up.

3.   Leinau noted that Drum Road has gone through renovations by the military twice with major potholes. He hopes that with the wet season approaching more attention is spent looking at management practices or plans and or weather rather than the scheduling.

TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE: Riviere reported the next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 14.

RESIDENTS’ CONCERNS: Chair Lyons asked that concerns be kept to the three-minute time limit.

Advocating for Middle Schools – Jim Frisbee continued to advocate for middle schools for North Oahu children. He read his letter published in the Honolulu Advertiser saying that the children of North Oahu deserve the full benefits of education reform, and the formation of and access to middle schools. There are only three schools on Oahu that remain in the 7–12 structure, Kahuku, Waialua and Nanakuli. Resources are available through the State Department of Education (DOE), and which the legislature can facilitate the removal of 7th and 8th grades from these schools. “The CSSS School” flyer was available with a list of resource information Frisbee requested that the Board consider placing this matter on a future agenda.

Comments followed:

1. Miller favors moving forward with this concept but keeping in mind the State’s limited resources. There has been some talk about Haleiwa School becoming the middle school for the Waialua Complex, and bringing the Sunset Beach Elementary School in with the Waialua Complex would bring the community together.
2. Ng favors the middle school concept as well, but noted this has been going on for 20 years, and the concept may not fit all. Ng questioned whether the Board of Education (BOE) is aware of the middle school idea. Frisbee indirectly brought it up at an exploratory meeting three months ago at Kahuku High School; and a meeting is set for January 24, 2008.

3. Meade expressed understanding of funding, but as an educator, she also looks at and understands the need for a solid foundation for students. Dedicated teachers are needed to teach the skills in preparation for high school.

4. Chair Lyons requested that the information from the January 24, 2008 meeting be brought back to the Board. Frisbee agreed and added that he needs community support. The community is the one who has to tell the BOE to implement middle schools.

Philips moved to add to the agenda, a letter to the Board of Education indicating this Board’s support and looking toward the feasibility of a middle school for the North Shore community. Due to the complexity and depth of the subject matter, Chair Lyons entertained taking the matter up on a future agenda. The motion was withdrawn. The Board will be recessing in December and the Chair would like to wait until more information can be brought forth from the January 24 BOE meeting. Frisbee noted that there is no immediate rush.

Philips moved, Hirota seconded to put on the earliest possible agenda, support of middle schools for the North Shore community. Discussion followed: 1) While Ng supports the motion, he suggested getting input and to be aware of funding if advocating for middle schools. 2) Lunasco raised a question about legislative efforts; however, Miller raised a point of order that discussion was to the order of the motion. Chair Lyons ruled the point of order well-taken. The motion was adopted by unanimous consent. 12-0-0. Aye: Alameida, Hirota, Leinau, Lunasco, Lyons, Matsuura, Meade, Miller, Ng, Philips, Riviere and Scoville.

Dangers of Bicycling Around Waimea – Miller raised a concern of a constituent regarding the danger of bicycling around Waimea Bay with the cars parked along Kamehameha Highway, and suggested a proposal to eliminate parking along the highway completely and turn it into a bike path. Miller asked to refer the matter to the Traffic and Transportation Committee. Riviere acknowledged the request.

Pu’u Honua – Brother Sage Chee, of Pu’u Honua Initial Contact Shelter Program, is working with members of the community, Pastor Ron Valenciano, Board member Philips, Representative Magaoay and others for solutions to the homeless problem. Pu’u Honua currently services the area from Kaaawa to Waimea Bay. Their 40-day program helps homeless families and individuals to move from homelessness to self-sufficiency within 40 days. Brother Sage is now looking to extend the operating model to the borders of North Shore at Waiale’e next to Kawela Bay. He is working with the State Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and is hoping to get a letter of support from the Board.

Chair Lyons asked Brother Sage to get together with Philips, the Board’s point person, with necessary information such as location, description, parcel size of the facility, etc., and to keep the Board apprised.    

Comments followed: 1) Philips thanked Brother Sage for coming, and expressed concern with the Board’s process because the homeless situation really is a crisis in this area. She asked if some recommendations could be provided at the next Board meeting and that a sub-committee be formed. 2) Miller believes this came up at the last meeting and understood it would be put on the October or November’s agenda; however, Chair Lyons clarified he was awaiting information from Philips and that’s why he did not put it on the agenda.

Miller moved, Philips seconded to put Pu’u Honua’s request for support on November’s agenda. Discussion followed: Philips apologized for the miscommunication but was under the impression it would be on tonight’s agenda. The Chair recalls making several requests to have the information forwarded, but received no communications. Lunasco spoke against the motion sharing concern that the information had not been forwarded. The motion was adoped, 8-1-2. Aye: Alameida, Hirota, Leinau, Meade, Miller, Philips, Riviere and Scoville. No: Lunasco. Abstain: Lyons and Ng.

Granting Permits for Berms – Along Kaukonahua Road berms are being constructed for security purposes. However, Ng shared concerns of soil erosion, runoffs, flooding and contamination. The request to the City for a requirement of developers to apply for permits was denied because the City was not sure whether they were responsible to grant permits or not. Councilmember Dela Cruz sent a letter to the City’s Corporation Counsel requesting of the City to make a determination on whose responsibility it is to grant permits. Ng said supporting the endeavors of grading the area for berms will set a precedent for the whole island.

Hirota explained that the landowners are all farmers grading their land to meet irrigation standards, and all has been passed by the Soil Conservation Service. All that’s being done is grading of the land to make ditches to avoid runoffs, to protect the soil, so they can plant their crops. The property is being leased from Dole Company and the grading is approved under Best Management Agricultural Practices; so there are no agricultural grading violations and no action is being taken.

Women’s Surfing and Wave Riding Events – Jenn Marr shared this is the first time in 20 years there has been no permits issued for women’s surfing/wave riding events at Banzai Pipeline. Marr and Philips ran the contest there for 15 years with much success and are trying to find out, in the 35th Anniversary of Title 9, why women are not even given a portion of the world’s most prestigious event. She is seeking the Board’s support to secure a standard for a recommended percentage of dates for women’s events.

Meade moved, Philips seconded to support women’s surfing and wave riding events. Philips seconds the motion. The motion was adopted, 11-1-0. Aye: Alameida, Hirota, Leinau, Lunasco, Lyons, Matsuura, Meade, Miller, Ng, Philips and Scoville. No: Riviere. Chair Lyons asked Marr to get with the Mayor’s representative to exchange information; and asked that information be given to Philips for the letter.  

Let’s Surf Coalition (LSC) – Riviere indicated being involved with the LSC group and that they do not take a position on who gets or does not get permits relating to the women’s surfing events, agrees it is a travesty, and that the whole system is dysfunctional. However, there is a “conflict resolution procedure” in place for the City’s Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) but Rule 15G say there should be no more than four contest for 16 days of competition per beach, per year. This year DPR is pending approval of 23 days of competition at Sunset Beach – violating the rule with seven days more than allowed; Ehukai Beach is already slated for 18 days of competition – again violating the rules of 16 days of competition per beach, per year; and DPR is saying a year of competition is only from October to March. Riviere is asking the Board to take a position of calling on DPR, Director Lester Chang to revisit the “conflict resolution procedure” and there might be time for the women to get some resolution.  

Riviere moved, Alameida seconded that the North Shore Neighborhood Board No. 27 requests the City Department of Parks and Recreation to redo the conflict resolution procedure for surf contest permit applications to reduce the number of permitted surf contests on the North Shore in accordance with the Amended Rules Governing Shore Water Events.   

Discussion followed: 1) Lunasco asked why the Board has to tell the DPR to revisit the procedure already in place. 2) Based on the conversation today, Ribellia (Councilmember Dela Cruz’s office) is going to strongly urge the Councilmember to place this on his next committee agenda and would like to urge the community to provide information regarding the violations. Written comments have been received, but more physical support and testimony is needed. Chair Lyons asked Ribellia to work with Jenn Marr. 3) Philips supported the motion but felt that not only should the rules be addressed but the gender equity issue as well as the lack of planning. The motion was adopted by unanimous consent, 12-0-0. Aye: Alameida, Hirota, Leinau, Lunasco, Lyons, Matsuura, Meade, Miller, Ng, Philips, Riviere and Scoville.

Concern regarding Wahiawa Dam – Lunasco shared that the rainy season is quickly approaching, the reservoir level is up and although water is being released, it’s not fast enough. His concern was for the residents in Waialua and stressed revisiting the issue.  

Fishing at Sharks Cove – Lunasco raised concern about the fishing at Sharks Cove and asked when is the issue to be revisited with Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) regarding the rule change. Chair Lyons said a call is in with the parties and will be meeting with the new DLNR director.      

ELECTED OFFICIALS:  

Mayor's Representative – Alenka Remec thanked Hirota for tonight’s clarification regarding the issue about the berm. She proceeded to highlight on responses from the previous month: 1) Crosswalk Request Fronting Waialua Library (Nancy John) – The City’s Department of Transportation Services (DTS) will report their findings at the December Board meeting regarding the request. 2) Poamoho Estate Issue Regarding Reduced Property Taxes and Reduced Water Rates (Kat Brady) – a) The subdivision, which is a ministerial approval, was granted on the basis that the lots met zoning and infrastructure requirements, the land was suitable for agriculture, there was adequate water provided, and a declaration of restrictive covenants was filed stating that the lots would be primarily used for agricultural activities and subject to uses permitted in the State Ag district under HRS Section 204-4.5.  However, neither the subdivision ordinance nor any other City and State laws can regulate the occupation (what they do for a living) of the buyers or owners of these lots. The Request for Information (RFI) indicated no violations but revealed that a number of the lots were vacant or unoccupied and some of them contained newly planted trees and vegetables or had horses grazing on the property. The City Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) rules do not provide for enforcement of non-use of land.  If requested, DPP will investigate use violations, but if land is unused, that is not a violation. b) There are 155 dwellings on the property which are all tied to a single water meter.  It is difficult to track specific usage without specific addresses.  Also, agriculture water rate users are required to do a number of steps, one of which includes physical inspection and verification that water is being used for agricultural purposes; that they have a General Excise Tax (GET) license. 3) Extra Trash Can Issue (Ollie Lunasco) – the Environmental Department notified Mr. Lunasco that monitoring his container will begin starting October 16. At the end of this monitoring period, if the amount of excess rubbish merits a second container, he will be given one and if it does not, he will be notified in writing that a second container will not issued. Lunasco said this is the fourth time but that he spoke to someone (Akana); but that this the first time that someone has actually come out to pick up the rubbish. Remec will call directly and follow-up. 4) $10 Charge for a Second Trash Pickup (Lunasco) –Currently, there is a pilot recycling program being done in two communities. The City is looking at two alternatives and has not decided yet what recycling would be like for the entire county. Right now, Hawaii Kai and Mililani are getting one weekly trash and one weekly curbside recycling; alternating curbside recycling week-to-week with green waste. And beginning January 2008, only Mililani will have the option to request the second trash pickup The City wants to see which type of service works better in which community. Oahu has one of the best refuse services in the state. Kauai has once-a-week refuse service and no refuse user fee; however, there is no curbside recycling, green waste or bulky collection; Maui has once-a-week service; and the Big Island has no service at all and residents have to contact a private refuse service for curbside collection. The City Department of Environmental Services (ENV) is doing a great job trying to find ways to make recycling work for this community. 5) Speed Bumps on Paalaa Road (Omi Pearman) – The City’s traffic calming program was suspended and measures such as speed bumps will not be considered at this time. Portions of Kailua had speed bumps but residents wanted them removed because of negative noise impacts. DTS would prefer to control speeding through appropriate speed limit signage and enforcement by HPD; DTS checked the Paalaa Road for appropriate speed limit signage and found that 15 mph speed limit signs are posted along the residential portion of Paalaa Road where the road narrows. DTS has issued a work order to replace one speed limit sign which was corroded and other missing or defaced warning signs in the area. 6) Concerns that No DPP Reps Came to Discuss Land Use Issues – Subdivisions are governed by Subdivision Ordinance and the Rules and Regulations including agriculture lots. Detailed information on the process/requirements is found at www.honoluludpp.org under subdivision permits. If an application meets the requirements, including zoning and infrastructure standards, the land is suitable for agriculture, there is adequate water provided, a declaration of restrictive covenants is filed stating that the lots would be primarily used for agricultural activities and subject to uses permitted in the State Ag district under HRS Section 204-4.5, and the approval is a ministerial action, i.e., without discretionary considerations. Land use is governed by the Land Use Ordinance, copy of which is also available on the DPP website.  This ordinance lists the permitted uses in each zoning district.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. Relating to berms, Ng said under Article 13, Chapter 14, about six to seven exclusion factors were released as to why permits are not required and about three where developers did not qualify for berms. The basis for the objection was because it raised critical environmental concerns.

2. Lunasco commends the recycling program, but thinks it has not gone far enough. The bulk of the rubbish disposed at Waimanalo Gulch should go to H-Power which cannot be accommodated by the facility. Remec noted that the City is looking at putting a new furnace at H-Power because the existing two burners cannot accommodate the increased amount of garbage and increasing population. But the hope is once paper and other kinds of waste is recycled, there will be less waste going to the landfill and more going to H-Power and the best way still to recycle waste back into energy. Lunasco feels its 20 years too late, however, Remec emphasized the key is to keep moving forward and hopefully it will be resolved. 

3. Miller noted that Councilmember Dela Cruz’s office is awaiting a response from Director Eugene Lee, City Department of Design and Construction (DDC), regarding when the master plan for Haleiwa Town will be completed. She would like Remec to report on the matter at the next meeting. Remec acknowledged the request and believes that DPP is involved as well.

4. Regarding DPP representatives, Chair Lyons commented that basically they did not have the time to attend the meeting. He would like it known that the people on the North Shore are important too and would like to be more informed and educated about land use issues impacting their neighborhood, and impacts of tourist traffic. He would also like some HPD solo bike assistance to help move traffic along.  

Board of Water Supply – George Kuo responded to the previous concerns: 1) BWS construction inspector checked with Omega Construction about the bad patch of the new waterline project in Haleiwa. A roller was requested; unfortunately, it was not available and will be coming out at a later date. Beginning this week, a crew was sent to the site to do temporary restoration. 2) An inspector investigated the leaking water main complaint at Anahulu Bridge and determined that the main will be repaired by the end of the month; work will be done at night. 3) A concern received outside of the meeting about a private water tanker stealing water from the fire hydrant in the vicinity of Haleiwa Marketplace. Kuo asked that if you see the theft occurring, to please call 911 with the details.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1.       Leinau said not every private water tanker filling up water is stealing, but questioned what would be a good visual clue they are legitimate. Kuo replied the contractor would have to apply for a temporary meter, so the clue is if you don’t see a big brass fitting or extension connected to the fire hydrant.

2. Lyons noted that Haleiwa Road (just before the bridge past Chuns Store) is still very bumpy due to the ongoing construction, but with the rainy season coming, it needs to be redone. Kuo will pass on the concern.

City Council Member Donovan Dela Cruz – Kimberly Ribellia, Senior Advisor highlighted the following: 1) The Councilmember had a discussion with Oahu Civil Defense and the Department of Emergency Management requesting that departments provide a list of sirens that need to be replaced;  there are several. If you know any not functioning properly, please notify Civil Defense, HPD or the Councilmember’s office. 2) The Councilmember honored the Waialua High School and Intermediate Robotic and Electrical Vehicle teams, and also the National History Competition Day in Maryland. 3) Request for Investigation and Service Report (RISR) highlights and memos distributed: a) After Thomson’s Corner, the blinking light at the first turn on Kaukonahua Road heading to Schofield will be altered and have blinking lights for both ways as requested. b) It was already reported that BWS will be moving the pipe on Anahulu Bridge. c) HPD has been reminded that there’s a lot of speeding on Farrington Highway and they will especially monitor the residential areas which are 35 mph. e) Also a complaint of speeding in front of Waialua High and Intermediate School – the request asked the State to put in a speed monitor; that was also denied. f) A copy of the memo asked for confirmation regarding the Haleiwa Sidewalk Master Plan. 4) Almeida and Philips shared concerns about information regarding important agricultural land (IAL) legislation that had not been completed because the Counties mapping process is not starting until after the State Legislature  adopts a package of incentives for the protection of agricultural activities on IAL lands. 5) The Councilmember initiated the funding of additional police officers for agricultural thefts and part of the Wahiawa Police Station – District 2, Crime Reduction Unit. 6) Regarding the last wildfire, Councilmember requested that the Administration to look at fire damaged trees and install guard rails along Kaukonahua Road where needed. The City response indicated that they were performing health assessment of trees and will determine the most cost effective and expeditious means of addressing the immediate hazards. 7) The Waialua Hongwanji Mission will have a “Huli Huli Chicken” sale on Saturday, November 10, 2007. 

Ng referred to the letter regarding the Waialua fire and strategies of what can be done to take care of the burnt soil but that the response indicated that there’s no need to do anything. However, six months from now the guinea grass will be all brown and dry and there could be another Waialua fire.   

Ng moved, Lunasco seconded to support Councilmember Dela Cruz’s letter of October 16 to NRCS where it states that human danger and environmental concerns still exist and should be addressed by NRCS. Discussion followed: 1) Lunasco supports the motion noting that the rainy season is quickly approaching and if looking mauka all that land will end up in Kaukonahua Stream coming down to Waialua. He also feels that Councilmember Dela Cruz should write a stronger letter to have the problem reassessed. 2) Leinau said addressing erosion problems is totally appropriate because our environment is really fragile; however he’s not clear on NRCS’s jurisdiction and what do they do? Lyons indicated they obtain the funding, materials to get he job done and filling the need where it’s overly extensive; and also a long process to get the money moving. 3) Philips said the erosion problem in that Ahupua’a is outrageous and one only needs to go swimming in Kaiaka Bay see the amount of soil that has been eroding on our beach there; and with the fires has been an environmental disaster, so this is an excellent time to act on it. 4) Ng further clarified the first Waialua fire Castle & Cooke was nice enough and gave $120,000 to reseed the whole area. With the second Waialua fire no one wanted to step forward; and NRCS is supposed to go to Washington and get the money, but instead NRCS ignored the matter indicating it was not necessary. The motion was adopted by unanimous consent, 12-0-0. Aye: Alameida, Hirota, Leinau, Lunasco, Lyons, Matsuura, Meade, Miller, Ng, Philips, Riviere and Scoville.

Governor's Representative – Deputy Adjutant General, Gary Ishikawa, distributed the Governor’s Update and reported: 1) Bus Stop Issue – The State and City are both working on the bus stop issue at Goodale Road because it involves Farrington Highway (State jurisdiction) and Goodale Road (City jurisdiction). Currently, ridership and pedestrian counts are being taken by the City; and Ishikawa will contact Lunasco once he receives word. 2) The Special Session – The session will be held 9 a.m. tomorrow. Contact your legislators to express your position, pro or con. Laura Thielen will be going up for confirmation as the Chair of the Department of Land and Natural Resources. If confirmed, Ishikawa would be glad to invite her out to a future Board meeting to hear the Boards’ issues. 3) Press Conference – The 29th Combat Team to return to the Gulf. The two-phase process gives one year’s notice for the Hawaii National Guard to prepare and train; and the second phase (mobilization order) is projected ending the next calendar year. Ishikawa could not say more than that the mission will be in Kuwait providing security forces. A new policy being implemented for the 29th Brigade is going to be 12-month activation which is different from previous deployment. The Guard is trying to get the Army to agree to the 29th Brigade getting trained two months in Hawaii and mobilized 10 months in Kuwait. A 13-month deployment is also a possibility. 

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1.       Lunasco thanked Ishikawa about the bus stop issue. He also asked whether the Army addressed the issues such as benefits and post service jobs, Ishikawa indicated that less then a handful of servicemen did not come back to jobs. There is a team in place that explains to employers the law and it seems to be working. Ishikawa also testified with Senator Akaka and they are accomplishing great strides but a lot more work needs to be done.  

2.       Ng congratulated the State Department of Transportation (DOT) for the fabulous job paving Kaukonahua Road from Thompson Corner to Weed Junction. However, the paving of Farrington Highway from Thompson Corner to Goodale Road is incomplete with only patches. Ishikawa will pass the good word and Representative Magaoay will touch on Farrington Highway in his report.

3.       Meade asked to please provide the very best for our servicemen and women; Ishikawa agreed.

State Representative Michael Magaoay – Rep. Magaoay reported: 1) Repaving of Kaukonahua Road from Thompson Corner to Weed Circle up to Twin Bridge was finally done; now repaving is needed from Thompson Corner to Otake, but the funds were insufficient. Next year, more money for the maintenance of the roads off of Kamehameha Highway should be available. 2) The Special Session will also address the bill on extended sentencing. The Senate will have a hearing tomorrow at 10:30 a.m., and the House on Thursday; each will be introducing their own bill on the Superferry. The problem is that the Superferry is here and $40 million has already been spent for harbor improvements, so the taxpayers of the state are in a “double jeopardy” situation.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1. Miller received comments from farmers that the Superferry will help them open up new markets and is a viable option for them.

2. Regarding the Wahiawa Reservoir, Ng noticed that Rep. Magaoay supports the State taking over Lake Wilson. Many who are familiar with Lake Wilson hopes Rep. Magaoay would reconsider or place a caveat because of the hundreds and millions of dollars needed to rehabilitate Lake Wilson and eliminate contamination. Rep. Magaoay explained his position of looking at it as insurance for the State, as an alternate plan in case a crisis should happen.

3. Lunasco echoed Ng’s comment that Wahiawa’s water is unusable and is too much water for the amount of land farming. Rep. Magaoay indicated that DLNR and the Department of Ag need to work together on the Wahiawa Dam issue.

Without objections the agenda was taken back to order to hear the report from the Honolulu Fire Department

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – Capt. B. Emmons reported for both Waialua and Sunset Beach stations: 1) 6 rubbish and 1 vehicle fire, 36 medical, 1 search/rescue and 4 miscellaneous emergencies. 2) Fire Safety Tip – When selecting Halloween costumes, ensure they are fire-resistant. Keep the length of costumes short to prevent tripping. A natural mask of cosmetics is better than a mask that may restrict breathing or obscure vision. Children should carry flashlights to light their way.

The agenda resumed order. No representatives or reports were available for Senator Bunda and Congresswoman Mazie Hirono. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: None

NEW BUSINESS / PRESENTATION / ACTION:

Ecological Fencing for Kaena Point – Ati Jeffers, Outreach Coordinator for the Kaena Point Restoration Project at the Natural Area Reserve (NAR) located at the most Northwestern peninsula of Oahu. The NAR is designated as prime areas to be protected by law because of the natural and cultural resources, and the growing population of rare and endangered plants and seabirds. There are four native seabirds noted to nest at Kaena, 11 federally listed endangered plants, and endangered Hawaiian Monk seals that also frequent the area. The colony of native birds and plants are situated on higher ground and with the threat of rising sea level, other colonies in Hawaii may not be able to survive. Plants and birds are constantly threatened by mongoose, cats, dogs, rats and mice. In 2006, more than 100 seabirds were killed by dogs and cats at Kaena Point.      

A solution to these threats is a predator approved fencing to protect the NAR and prevents animals from entering into these protected areas. The fencing will use the state of the art technology. Funding for the fence will come from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. While the fence will prevent predators from entering, people will still be able to access the area. Public comment is important as part of the permitting process and public outreach is underway and user surveys have been used on site. A letter was circulated to the Board requesting support of the project.

Almeida moved, Miller seconded that the North Shore Neighborhood Board No. 27 support the Kaena Point Ecosystem Restoration Project’s construction of a predator approved  fence; and that the letter of support be submitted for input with the EIS (Environmental Impact Statement) currently being prepared.

Discussion followed: 1) Philips favors the proposal but had a question whether it would create an exclusive bio-diversity zone. Lindsey Young, Outreach Coordinator, felt it won’t create an exclusive zone but it would allow everything within that area encumber to its fullest potential when protected, creating a source population for better recovery. 2) Jeffers gave the presentation to the Mokuleia Community Association (MCA) on Saturday and unanimously supported the Ecosystem Restoration Project at Kaena Point. MCA will write a letter to DLNR and a copy to the Governor supporting the proposal. 3) Lunasco favors the motion but is cautious that it maybe restricted to hunters. Jeffers agreed and that there should not be restricted access.

Miller called for the question; there were no objections. The motion was adopted by unanimous consent, 12-0-0. Aye: Alameida, Hirota, Leinau, Lunasco, Lyons, Matsuura, Meade, Miller, Ng, Philips, Riviere and Scoville.

Hi’ilei Aloha, Waimea Valley – Jonathan Lekeke Scheuer, Director of Land Management, reported that the Audubon announced in January they would not pursue a long-term lease for Waimea. Back in March after hearing the announcement, laid out four main things they would try to address: 1) to immediately try to address the health and safety issues; 2) being long-term planning; 3) spend time working with Audubon staff to try learn and understand the operations; and 4) what to do when Audubon leave. And the options were: a) to manage it as an arm of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA), having Audubon employees become OHA employees, as a division of OHA; b) look for another Audubon with the expertise in three areas: the business side, the botanical and environmental side, and enhancing the cultural activities side at Waimea; and c) to create a separate entity to manage it as a part of OHA; shielding OHA from the liability associated with land ownership, as well as allowing fundamental decisions about that property to be made at the local level rather than in Honolulu.

After doing the analysis and looking around and looked within themselves and found some good possibilities; costly and not necessarily be overly bureaucratic in terms of the day-to-day management. Last month it was created and announced, Hi’ilei Aloha which means “to care for and caring lovingly,” a non-profit organization. The parent corporation will create a subsidiary just to manage Waimea Valley. The project manager of Hi’ilei Aloha will be Gary Gill. He will get the entity up and running to take over from Audubon on February 1, 2008.

Gary Gill thanked the North Shore community for the deep history, love and support of Waimea Valley. Gill has committed to the current employees, intentions to keep the programs already in place to maintain and improve the botanical collections, and sustain the Hawaiian culture, preservation of the archeological resources; and the need to setup a process where community involvement to participate; and finally to see the Valley to have not carbon footprint. He indicated they are at the very beginning and he looks forward to the communities comments.

Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1) The Audubon plans to close down on January 29, and will be transferring on February 1. 2) The existing subsidiary, Hi’ilei Aloha is a non-profit organization; and below Hi’ilei will also be a non-profit will be a service organization that supports the project. Scheur said the organization will be a single member LLC, so OHA is the only member of the LLC; and LLC’s can be member managed or manager managed and it will be manager managed. There will be two OHA employees that are going to be the managers of Hi’ilei Aloha and two OHA employees that are going to be the managers of the subsidiary. 3) The community spent a lot time planning coming up with a community plan and Scheuer noted that they are all on the same page and will be the foundational document. 4) OHA is targeting to making Waimea self sufficient within five years but hopefully three years. 5) The all the employees will be the employees of LLC. Scheur also indicated that they are very focused on the financial side. 6) Shirai feels OHA did a very good job and followed Gill’s tracking with the historical sites in Kalihi Valley. He wants to focus on the idea of protocol before proceeding.  

CORRESPONDENCE AND CHAIR'S REPORT:  Contact Chair Lyons to review the various correspondences.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• 13^th Annual Harvest Moon Dance on November 10 from 8 to 11 p.m. Fundraiser for the North Shore Outdoor Circle; tickets are $10 pre-sale at Global Creations.
• North Shore Chamber of Commerce presents the North Shore Festival on November 10 and 11 at Haleiwa Beach Park; music on Saturday and a movie on Sunday.

• The next Board meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 27, 7:00 p.m. at the John Kalili Surf Center.
• Olelo Broadcast slot for the North Shore Neighborhood Board meetings are each Saturday, Channel 49 at 9:00 p.m.     

ADJOURNMENT:  Without any objections, the meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m.

Submitted by

Marie Richardson

Neighborhood Assistant