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KOOLAULOA NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

THURSDAY, AUGUST 9, 2007

HAU’ULA COMMUNITY CENTER

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Dee Dee Letts called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. a quorum was present.

MEMBERS PRESENT: John Elkington, Kathryn Heath, Kelika Ishol, Barbara Kahana, Jimmy Leonardi, Dee Dee Letts, Creighton Mattoon, Junior Primacio.

MEMBERS ABSENT: Norman Kaluhiokalani, Les Steward, Dawn Wasson.

GUESTS: John Olszowka, Dee Dee Herron (Punaluu Community association), Fred Mencher (HME), Gerry Meade (KCHWC), Michelle Malufau (KCHWC), Chuck Braden (KCHWC), Dacey Kagawa, Jeff Overton (Group 70), Lea Albert (DOE), Ella Sirosicey (Kahuku Hospital), Amy Madsen (Marine Corps), Barry Usagawa (BWS), Sherry Wartner, Dawn Hoppe, Eric Takamura (Director of EVS), Captain Char (HFD), Fire Fighter Walsh (HFD), Lieutenant Robinson (HPD), Lieutenant Cheong (HPD), Keoki Miyamoto (Department of Facility Maintenance), Jacee Mikulanec (Councilmember Donovan Dela Cruz’s Office) Leland S.M. Ribac (Neighborhood Commission Office Staff).

APPROVAL OF THE MEETING MINUTES OF JUNE 14, 2007: Mattoon moved and was seconded by Heath to approve the minutes, the motion was approved without objection by the Board with the following amendment:

• Page 5, under Public Input: Replace “A local community program” with Koolauloa Community Health & Wellness Center.

TREASURER’S REPORT:  Chair Letts read the appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008; highlighting the Operating Account has $1,520, Publicity Account $1,081, and Refreshment Account at $120.

GOVERNMENT REPORTS:

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

• Statistics for the month of July in the Ko`olauloa district: 12 fires; 37 medical calls; 2 search and rescues; and responded to 14 miscellaneous calls.
• Tip of the Month: As children will be returning to school this month, be cautious when driving near schools and crosswalks. Teach children street safety skills such as looking both ways before crossing the street, as well as to call 911 in case of emergencies.

No questions or concerns followed.

HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD): Lieutenant Robison and Lieutenant Cheong reported the following:

• Lt. Robinson read the statistics for the month of July for the entire windward area; 0 manslaughter/murder, 4 rape, 4 robbery, 6 aggravated assaults, 61 burglaries, 168 thefts, 125 unauthorized entrance to motor vehicles (UEMV), 45 auto thefts.
• Between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. HPD has been performing checks and sweeps at Lai`e point, resulting in the citing of 10 vehicles and the arrest of 8 persons.
• Prepare you families for hurricane season Flossie is the first of the season. Statistics show that if a category 3 hurricane was to hit, 85% of trees would be blown down.

Questions, comments and concerns:

• Leonardi questioned a new tower being built next to the Kahuku Police Station, and its proximity to the  Kahuku High School. Lt. Robinson replied that it was his understanding that the new tower will replace the existing tower due to rust and structural problems. Chair Letts commented that if the new tower is to replace the old tower, why is it twice as high? Lt. Robinson has no exact answer.
• Ishol questioned of the 15 burglaries, which location experienced more? Lt. Robinson replied Punalu`u had eight of the 15 burglaries, and that the patrol is very good at identifying the thieves.

MAYOR’S REPRESENTATIVE: Keoki Miyamoto, Deputy Director of the City Department of Facility Maintenance, representing the Mayor, introduced himself and took any questions or requests.

Questions, comments and concerns:

• Leonardi questioned the cleaning of two streams located on the mauka sides of Kamehameha Highway, called Ki`i and Kahuku Bridges. Keoki to look into it.
• Chair Letts mentioned the Ka`a`awa Beach Park restrooms are still not operating and asked for a status report. Mr. Miyamoto had not information regarding the issue however Mikulanec from Council member Dela Cruz’s office replied that the restrooms septic system had problems and needed to be redone in order to obtain approval from the Department of Health.
• A community member questioned if Patrick Kubota retired? Chair Letts replied that Kubota changed occupations and is at the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands.
• Primacio questioned the status of the Kahuku District Park play apparatus. The apparatus has been taken apart. Miyamoto to look into it.

COUNCILMEMBER DONOVAN DELA CRUZ: Jacce Mikulanec of Councilmember Dela Cruz’s office reported the following:

• There was a great turn out at the past community clean ups events.
• In regards to the Ka`a`awa restrooms not being opened, the Department of Health is looking into it, the restrooms septic system did not meet standards.
• Several abandoned vehicles have been removed within the district.
• Councilmember Dela Cruz’s newsletter was located in the back of the room, his website is up and running.
• It will soon be the time for CIP projects, such as play equipment for parks.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

• A constituent questioned the real property tax exemption. Mikulanec replied that there have been several workshops and all details are in the back of the room.
• A constituent questioned the authorization of prisoners on the highway picking up trash, Mikulanec noted it was a State issue.
• Leonardi stated that on Kamehameha Highway near Kahuku High School, even with the two stop lights, when the school lets out there is a large traffic jam. Chair Letts replied that the highway belongs to the state and not the county so DOT should be contacted regarding this issue.
• Mencher questioned what should be done to recycle computer printers. Mikulanec to give contact information for disposing of the printers.

GOERVOR’S REPRESENTATIVE: Ben Henderson was not available, but provided Chair Letts a written as follows:

• DOT Highways will investigate the cleaning of two ditches mauka of Kamehameha Highway known as “hospital ditch”. DOT Highway staff are currently engaged in assessing the condition of bridges on Oahu.
• With the start of school, be aware of children in crosswalks and playgrounds. There is a new law that calls for a $150 fine for motorists who fail to stop for pedestrians; second offense carries a $300 fine and three month license revocation; third offense $1,000 fine and six month license revocation.
• The Governor will be hosting the 4th Annual International Women’s Leadership Conference on September 25th at the Sheraton Waikiki. Register at www.iwlc.org.

Questions, comments and concerns followed: Chair Letts recorded all concerns to be sent to Henderson.

• Leonardi asked whether turn lanes could be explored at Kahuku High School. When school is finished traffic is a big problem.
• Elkington questioned the completion date for the bridge in front of the State Park.
• A resident also added that there is a $75 fine for pedestrians that j-walk.

STATE LEGISLATORS: No State Legislators were available.

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION (DOE): Lea Albert representing the DOE reported the following:

• On Thursday, May 3, 2007 an overspray of chemicals prompted school officials to contact the Fire Department as well as the Department of Agriculture and Department of Health. The chemical over sprayed was Ornithine, used to kill slugs, and would take 24 hours to dissipate, said officials. The school was closed as of Friday the 4th of May, and reopened on the following Tuesday. Teachers claimed to feel ill, so school was again closed on Tuesday. The school was cleared of Ornithine the same day, but stayed closed until Wednesday. Ornithine has no long term affects.
• Several schools accomplished the Adequate Yearly Progress goals (AYP). Hau`ula did not make AYP in math, but did in reading.
• The district surpassed its current record of 44%, and reached 53%.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

• Primacio questioned if the farmer was fined for the overspray, Albert replied yes.
• Chair Letts questioned a rumor that Ka`a`awa Elementary School would raise its grounds by five feet to accommodate a septic system. Albert noted that before changes occur they will go to the community first. To her understanding only a portion of the school would be raised, and DLNR will be working on this. Schools are being advised to upgrade systems.
• Herron heard that prisoners were on campus at Kahuku High School during operational hours. Albert responded that as soon as the Principal heard, prisoners were escorted back off the campus.
• Ishol questioned which schools did not make AYP? Albert noted that Hau`ula did not make AYP in math and, Kahuku High School did not make AYP.

BOARD OF WATER SUPPLY (BWS): Barry Usagawa of BWS reported the following information:

• There were no main breaks for the month of July.
• As of the first week of August 159 million gallons were being pumped on Oahu per day.
• Prepare adequate drinking water for the hurricane season, which is one gallon per person per day.
• Visit www.boardofwatersupply.com to view the new interactive Xeriscape plant page.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

            Mattoon mentioned that Usagawa was featured in an article in the Hawaiian Airlines magazine.

Board member Barbara Kahana joined the meeting at 7:40 p.m.

U.S. MARINES: Amy Madsen reported the following for the Marine Corps Base:

• In the last week of June, the Bay Fest went very well.
• On October 12, 13, and 14th, the Blue Angels along with others will be performing, so expect an increase in noise before and during the shows.
• There has been a change in command. Colonel Mark Duncan now commands the base.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

• Heath explained that helicopter traffic comes out of the valley and directly above houses in the evening. Madsen will take the information back.
• Chair Letts noted that hospitals and care homes should be notified of the air show as the noise caused problems for patients last year. Madsen agreed.
• Primacio questioned the activity of the Army. Madsen was unsure, Chair Letts noted the Army and Marines are separate, and that the army should be at the next meeting.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

KO’OLAULOA WATERSHED MANAGEMENT PLAN: Barry Usagawa and Jeff Overton of Group 70 reported that the plan is in its pre-final draft stage, with thanks to the community. The plan started in 2004, and represents more than 4,000 hours of work. The plan is part of the Oahu Watershed Management Plan. The plan takes a holistic approach to the watershed, and encompasses the heath of as well as the water sources of the watershed. This is a plan for the entire Ko`olauloa area. The goal is to protect, preserve, and manage Oahu’s watersheds, as well as provide a balance between sustainable groundwater and surface water use and development to serve present users and future generations. Several objectives are; to promote sustainable watersheds; protect and enhance water quality and quantity; protect native Hawaiian rights, traditional and customary practices; facilitate public participation, education, and project implementation; and to meet the water demands at reasonable costs. Overton also read a section of the plan’s executive summary.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

• Chair Letts noted that she appreciated the efforts of everyone involved, and read several unresolved issues, provided on a handout. Several issues involved implementation, aquifer protection, demand driven by development, sustainable yields, legal disclaimers, intermittent streams, and reasonable costs.  She noted that these unresolved issues came from the planning committee and that BWS had agreed to include them in the document and continue to work with the community on the issues.  Letts again thanked Barry and the consultant for their willingness to work with the community and incorporate their issues.
• Mattoon praised the plan, and asked what the next step was, if the Board endorses the plan. Usagawa noted that the plan would be presented to BWS, then the City’s Department of Planning and Permitting, then go before the City Council where public hearings will be held. The plan then needs to be adopted by ordinance, then go before the Water Commission where public hearings are also held.
• Elkington questioned how many aha’pua'a were there in the area. Overton replied that there were 31-33. The longest water flows are located in Kahana, and Kaluanui.
• A constituent noted that it is good that the plan has grown, but questioned what will be done to ensure its implementation, and what if developers from town want to use the water. Overton explained that the water will be used to serve Windward residents. The plan itself will set the stage for water management.
• Elkington questioned if Lai`e was supported by its own water system, Usagawa replied yes, and the wells are not owned by the City. Chair Letts added that the plan included all well yields whether the wells were private or public.
• Mattoon noted that he enjoyed many “spirited” meetings. Mattoon moved with Kahana seconding that the Ko`olauloa Neighborhood Board support the pre-final draft. Letts requested a friendly amendment that would require the Board to re-vote if any major changes in the plan occur. Mattoon accepted the friendly amendment, Kahana seconded. The motion carried unanimously by an 8-0-0 vote.
• Primacio questioned the Kahuku water pumps. If it’s electrically pumped, if there’s no electricity, there’s no water. Overton noted that this is also addressed in the draft. Primacio added that the last hurricane that hit the Windward side left Kahuku with no water for 23 days. Usagawa mentioned a generator could be used to pump the water.

KAHUKU HOSPITAL UPDATE: A Kahuku Hospital representative reported the following:

• The bankruptcy has taken longer than anticipated. As of July 1, 2007 HHSC will manage the hospital under a contract. A new Certificate of Need has already been submitted. The hospital will become a new entity called Kahuku Medical Center. Workers at the Medical Center will do their best to serve patients.
• Kahuku Medical Center has been aided by the Rural Health Administration, where a long range plan is being developed. Data has been requested to acquire additional equipment for the emergency room. A new Director of Nurses has been hired from Texas. The CEO of Kahuku Medical Center and HHSC are visiting all tenants on Kahuku Hospital property to see what they’re providing.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

·         Primacio questioned if the land was owned by Continental Pacific. She replied that to her knowledge only a small parcel is not owned by the State, the flood zone.

·         Elkington questioned if the State now owns the land. She was pretty sure, but noted that she would like to be kept on the agenda for more updates.

TRASH COLLECTION IN KAHUKU: Chair Letts read a written response from the Director of Environmental Services, Mr. Eric Takamura, stating that no door to door pick up will be done while the roads are dusty.

• Leonardi noted that he had met with several department representatives, but nothing was resolved. If the street is too dusty, no door to door service will be done. It would cost the association $8,000 to purchase trash bins, citizens were unhappy. Since 1970 trash has been collected door to door, and now they have stopped. Leonardi also noted that he is planning to meet with the Mayor.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

• Heath questioned if the Union has been spoken to. Takamura replied that he had met with Union representatives in May and June. It was said that there is so much dust that workers are always covered in a layer of dust. Spraying oil on the road is not allowed due to federal environmental laws. Takamura noted that the decision to stop pick up completely was not handled well. Takamura has not been in contact with Miyamoto, but will be in contact from now.
• Primacio noted that the roads had been oiled down approximately three months ago. Takamura noted that that should have not been done.
• Chair Letts mentioned that the roads are too narrow for trucks to turn around for automated pickup.  It was requested that Takamura stay in contact with Leonardi, and look into reimbursement to the community at the least for the $8,000 they have had to spend.
• A constituent voiced that no matter how many times residents water the dirt roads at any time of day, the roads will dry up before the trash pick up even occurs.

NEW BUSINESS:

KO’OLAULOA COMMUNITY HEALTH AND AWARNESS CENTER PRESENTATION (KCHWC): Chuck Braden of KCHWC shared a short DVD explaining what services including; family health care, physical exams, health screening, minor surgery, immunizations, and more.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

            Mattoon applauded KCHWC workers and noted that the center is a big part of the community.

BOARD VIDEOTAPING AND OLELO BROADCASTING: Primacio noted that no videographer was found so the issue of whether or not the board wanted to be taped by lelo is moot.

PUBLIC IMPUT:

• A constituent questioned a rumor that residents of the Senior Housing Project in Kahuku would be moved, to build condominiums. Information indicated that the rents were being raised from $870 to $990, and that section 8 would no longer be accepted. Plans are to build on top of the existing units. The land is owned by the City as Mikulanec will look for information.
• Primacio noted that he sits on the Housing Board and would like this item to be put on next months agenda. Chair Letts agreed.

CORRESPONDANCE: Chair Letts noted that the letter from Eric Takamura was received and read earlier.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

CIP/PUBLIC WORKS- JUNIOR PRIMACIO: No report at that time.

CULTURAL AFFAIRS: No report at that time.

EDUCATION- JIMMY LEONARDI: Leonardi noted that Lea Albert reported earlier in the meeting.

HEALTH/ HUMAN SERVICES- KELIKA ISHOL: A community vision meeting is scheduled for August 25, 2007; this is the first of five meetings, which will meet every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon, to discuss Kahuku Hospital and the community vision for the Hospital, which will be sent to HHSC. If anyone knows of a child in need of healthcare please call 211 for information.

HOUSING- KATHRYN HEATH: Heath encouraged all home owners to apply for the one time tax exemption, the handout was located in the back of the room.

PARKS & RECREATION- NORMAN KALUHIOKALANI: No report at that time. Primacio noted that Kahuku Community association would like to get Kaluhioklani to spearhead the completion of Kahuku District Park. Chair Letts will follow up with Kaluhiokalani.

PLANNING & LAND USE- CREIGHTON MATTOON: Mattoon reminded everyone to attend the first of three community meetings in regards to the Sustainable Community Plan, on August 30, 2007 at Laie Elementary.

PUBLIC INFORMATION- LES STEWARD: No report at that time.

PUBLIC SAFETY/TRANSPORTATION- JOHN ELKINGTON: Elkington announced that there will be a meeting with State and Red Cross representatives, to discuss shelter exercises on September 26th. Primacio questioned Kamehameha Highway in Hau`ula, and how bumpy it is. The road is a State road and that this matter can be brought before the State DOT.

WATER- BABARA KAHANA: Kahana thanked board members that have been handling the drafting of the Sustainable Watershed Plan.

COMMUNITY REPORTS:

Lai’e- Elkington announced that a new BYU President has been chosen, he is a graduate of Stanford University.

Hau’ula- Ishol announced the Community Association meeting is scheduled for the 1st Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. There is also a website being put together, a community swap meet is also being organized.

Ka’a’awa- Chair Letts announced that a T-Shirt design contest is ongoing with the schools, several fundraiser events are being planned jointly between the community association and the school. The restrooms at the park are still not open. The stream banks that were washed away are also being addressed.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chair Letts announced that there will be Sunshine Law Training, scheduled for August 14, 2007 at Mission Memorial Hall at 5:45 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT: At the completion of the agenda, Chair Letts called the meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m.

Submitted by:

Leland S.M. Ribac

Neighborhood Assistant