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KAHALU'U NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2006

KEY PROJECT 

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Okuda called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m., a quorum was present. He reminded everyone that the Chair must recognize any Board member or guest desiring to speak before the Board and reminded all about order and decorum. It was kindly requested that individuals with cell phones have it turned to vibrate mode or off while the meeting is in progress.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Robert Cappella, Emil Wolfgramm, George Okuda, Morris Graham, Arthur Machado, Jr., Kurt Mench, Wayne Panoke, Kenneth LeVasseur, Daniel Bender, John Piper, Rich Vermeesch, Gregory Geboski, John Paul Renoir (appointed tonight).

MEMBERS ABSENT: Amy Luersen and Rocky Kaluhiwa.

GUESTS: Alec Lambert, Linda Debo, Peg Debo, Rudy Remhard, Judy Fu, Marlene Fu, Jeanette Fu, Patrick Elisary, Ethel Yoshimura, Lambert Fu, Captain William Ralston (Honolulu Fire Department – Kahalu’u Station), David Henkin, Craig Nishimura Mayor’s Office/Deputy Director for the Department of Design and Construction), D.K. Naluai, S.L. Adams, Gerry White, Ronalene White, Carlos Lugtu, Alice Malick, Greg Malick, Shannon Wood (WAA), John Isabelo (Office of the State Attorney General Drug Abatement Investigation Division), Katherine Folasa (Council Chair Donovan Dela Cruz’s Office), Aimee Takahashi, Ed Underwood (Governor’s Office/DOBAR), Chuck Narikiyo (Charter Commission), Yvonne Kearns (U.S. Congressman Ed Case’s Office), Elaine Tadaki, Patti Borsch, Lt. Robert Robinson (Honolulu Police Department – District 4, Kaneohe) Elwin Spray (Neighborhood Commission Office), Nola J. Frank (Neighborhood Commission Office staff)

Panoke and Wolfgramm arrived (12 members present).

FILLING OF VACANCY (one seat) Subdistrict 2 (Kaalaea – Kahalu’u): Chair Okuda announced that a vacancy existed in Subdistrict 2 and invited interested persons to volunteer or to be nominated.  Morris nominated Jean Paul Renoir and seconded by Bender to fill the vacancy. David Henkin expressed interest in filling the vacancy and was nominated. Keala Naluai also expressed interest in filling the vacancy. The candidates introduced themselves.

Panoke disclosed that Mr. Henkin represents his company on legal matters and would refrain from voting.

Panoke moved and seconded by Machado to close the nominations. The motions carried unanimously 12-0-0.

Chair Okuda announced the motion failed to carry 5-1-5– Henkin-5 (Wolfgramm, Machado, Bender, Vermeesch, Geboski; Naluai-1 (Cappellla), Renoir-5 (Graham, Okuda, Mench, LeVasseur, Piper).

The continuation of filling of vacancies was deferred until later in the agenda.

Panoke and Wolfgramm arrived during the above portion of the meeting (12 members present

INFORMATIONAL SESSION:

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – Captain William Ralston gave the following report:

1)       Statistics for the month of September included a total of 8 fires (1 structure, 1 brush, 3 rubbish-unauthorized burning, 1 vehicle) and 26 emergency responses (22 medical, 1 search/rescue, 3 miscellaneous).

2)       Fire Safety Tip: When selecting Halloween costumes, ensure that they are flame-resistant, made of lightweight fabric, brightly colored, and clearly visible to motorists. Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape. 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.

3)       The Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) would like to remind the community that the HFD provides assistance to the Honolulu Emergency Services Department (HESD) by responding cooperatively when the need for emergency care arises. Due to the HFD’s 42 fire stations, and the HESD’s ambulance units, we are able to respond expeditiously in a very short amount of time to provide quality patient care and protect the citizens of the City and County of Honolulu.

4)       Fire Prevention Week is from October 8 to 14, 2006.

5)       The manpower crew at the station tonight is four. In response to Panoke, the maximum crew per shift is five. The station runs three shifts; there is one vacancy, and shift C was filled with two new recruits.

Captain William Ralston was thanked for attending the meeting.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – Lt. Robert Robinson and reported the following:

The monthly statistics were read highlighting that there was an increase in citations (100) for hazardous driving.

Received a call from the banyan tree property owner (next to the Hygienic Store) requesting, “no trespassing” signage due to illegal activity. Alternate plans for the banyan tree by the owner is to have it removed. Lt. Robinson told the owner signage can be posted but enforcement is difficult because the surrounding property owners include private owners, the City and the State.

Questions, answers and comments:

1)       In response to surrounding the tree with a fence, the property would be clearly marked. But specific signage, a notarized letter from the property owner would be need-allowing HPD to enter the private property for enforcement, which is very difficult when it comes to private properties.

2)       Regarding the proposed Hui Iwa Street bus stop and noise, trespassing, trash on neighboring private properties, and concerns of criminal elements hanging out, officers can enforce illegal drinking but cannot cite anyone for trespassing at a public bus stop. If illegal acts are done on private property and a report is made follow up will be done. Chair Okuda reiterated, “If a property owner complains about people at a bus stop trespassing on private property what can be done relative to the trespassing?” Lt. Robinson responded signs must be posted and the boundary visible. If an officer witnesses the activity he may approach the person with a warning, however no arrest can be made without a complaint.

3)       Vermeesch commented it is absurd to consider the removal of the banyan tree, which is a landmark due to illegal activity in the area. He suggested having an undercover officer in the area across the street to witness the activities; more police presence.

4)       Bender mentioned that the Board is beyond the time limits on issues.

5)       It was reported that 29 moving citations were issued on Hui Iwa Street in the last two weeks (all hours of the day).

6)       A resident reported illegal drug activity on private side of Ahuimanu Road. Steps are being taken with Mr. Isabelo to remove the drug dealer. In retaliation, a neighboring dog was killed and thrown into the stream. It was noted that the Sylvester Foundation removed the carcass a few days later. In response to issues between the caller and dispatch, it was advised to call the Narcotics Vice Division or the Drug Abatement Unit to report illegal drug activity.

7)       Illegal drug activity was also reported in Waiahole Valley.  This has been ongoing for the past eight years, and is possibly a drug laboratory.

8)       A question was posed as to ownership of the property on the side of Ahumanu Road (Kahekili Highway, Okana Road/Ahuimanu Road, makai of Lulani Street) where the unlicensed motorcross bikers congregate on the weekends. Follow up will be done.

9)       Panoke commended the resident for coming forth about the illegal activity issues. He added that the Board is advisory and sometime the expectation from the community is greater.

10)   A comment made was that Sgt. Chong of the Narcotics Vice Division would not take reports over the phone when a call was made regarding Malumalu Place and Ahuimanu Loop.

11)   Isabelo stated if one calls 911 or the police station to report illegal drug activity no records are kept. It was advised to call Narco/Vice at 529-3101 or Mark Miyahira of the Drug Abatement office at 586-1328, or the Kaneohe Crime Reduction Unit.

12)   Panoke expressed concern relative to HPD’s vacancies, 24 in District 4, Kaneohe. Sixteen officers are on duty covering the areas from Makapu’u to Kahuku. There is currently a shortage of eight officers per shift not counting those out on vacation, injuries, sick or training. He asked if recruitment and training is ongoing. Lt. Robinson answered the patrol division was evaluated in an audit by a private company. Chief of Police Correa has asked the City Council for 330 new officers. Panoke added if only 40 officers can be produced in a year, how many are assigned to District 4 and where does District 4 fall in the puzzle. Chair Okuda asked if HPD has gone to the mainland to recruit.  Machado pointed out that the Board has brought up this important issue for the past four years, but the vacancies have not been filled. Panoke inquired what is the Board going to do to assist in filling the vacancies. Lt. Robinson relayed that he did not know how many officers are assigned per district. District 4 has picked up two new officers with the assistance of Council Chair Dela Cruz and Councilmember Marshall. Panoke recommended that the Board assist Chair Dela Cruz on this issue by attending hearings and to lobby the Mayor.

Mench and Graham left the meeting room at this time (10 members present)

13)   Woods summarized that this discussion is brought up at other area Boards (Waimanalo, Kaneohe, Koolaulo, Kailua) and suggested all the boards get together to help resolve the issue.

Lt. Robinson and John Isabelo were thanked for attending the meeting.

Mench and Graham returned to the meeting (12 members present).

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Barry Usagawa was unable to attend tonight’s meeting. Chair Okuda gave the following report:

• There was one mainbreak for the month of September on Okana Road to a six-inch cast iron pipe.

• O’ahu water production for the week ending August 30, 2006 was 168 million gallons per day.

• Ko’olauloa Watershed Management Plan: The Public Review Draft is available for review and comment at www.hbws.org or www.boardofwatersupply.com Water Resources Tab, Watershed management plans the comment deadline is November 9, 2006. For further information contact Barry Usagawa at 748-5900.

• Safety and Security at BWS facilities – With the recent concerns about national security, and the increasing problem of theft and vandalism of public property, the Board of Water Supply has been proactive in their efforts to protect the safety of our water supply. However, having the community as a partner to help keep an eye on various properties, especially the remote ones, is something that is very important. BWS would like to remind you that should you see anything that looks out of the ordinary or suspicious occurring at one of the sites, your first call should be to the police. They appreciate receiving calls from the general public alerting them to incidents, but calling enforcement first allows them to respond faster to the situation, instead of relying on second hand information for BWS. If after contacting the police, you would like to give BWS a follow up call, please dial 748-5000.

• Water Conservation Tip: Use a broom to clean up your driveway. Eliminating even a weekly five- minute pavement hose down can save you between 625 and2500 gallons per year depending on the flow rate and frequency of use.

Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) – Sarah Fry was unable to stay for the meeting. The monthly report was available for interested persons to review.

Kaneohe Bay Regional Council (KBRC) – Mench pointed out that it has been overlooked replacement of Board representative to the Kaneohe Bay Regional Council (replacing Robin Makapagal). This item will be placed on the November 2006 agenda.

APPROVAL OF THE REGULAR MEETING MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 2006 – The following corrections/additions were made:

• Page 3 of 9, Honolulu Police Department, item 5 line 4 should read, “...LeVasseur announced that Usagawa had been in attendance at a recent general community planning session for the year Conference Hawaii 2005, a futurist conference; as an attendee, he congratulated Usagawa for also attending.

• Page 4 of 9, Marine Corps Base Hawaii should read, “...Sarah Fry reported two separate “TRANSPACS” of F/A-18 jet aircraft during September, that will stop in Hawaii at the Marine Corps Air Facility at Kaneohe as they transit between duty stations on the U.S. Mainland and Japan. The monthly MCBH awards ceremony on 15 September will also mark the fifth anniversary of Patriots’ Day and include the annual Missing in Action/Prisoner of War commemoration. She also noted the recent return of approximately 100 Marines and Sailors assigned to ground and air units at MCBH, Kaneohe Bay, after their deployments to the Middle East. Fry also noted that Marines would participate in the Aloha Festival floral parade on 16 September, and that the 19 September meeting of Windward Civilian-Military Council is replaced this month by a reception for Council members at the Commanding General’s residence that afternoon. Responding to Machado’s question regarding a possible use of MCBH for a canoe regatta, Fry suggested a group meeting of those interested, and a subsequent meeting with the base officials. Panoke asked about the request process; Fry said the canoe regatta request letter should be sent to the Commanding General, MCBH (Attn: PAO). Panoke asked if Congressional endorsements would be of value in seeking such use; Fry said the initial discussions and request letter should be the first steps taken, and that any written Congressional endorsements of the requested action should also be forwarded to the Commanding General MCBH. Chair Okuda suggested Panoke and Machado meet and Machado report back to the Board...”

• Page 5 of 9, Maintenance and Clearing of Streams should read, “... LeVasseur presented a presented a slide show...” Line 7 should read, “...LeVasseur said the current method of forcing the maintenance of streams involves the courts because of fairness issues, which can take years and does not immediately improve safety. LeVasseur said the government should take over the streambed, and by creating or using an existing multi-government agency maintain streams in a safe manner...”

• Page 8 of 9, Mayor’s Representative, line 20 should read, “... LeVasseur asked about availability of video projectors that Spray will answer at the next meeting.

• Page 9 of 9, Committee Presentation, Safety, Transportation, and Environment should read, “...LeVasseur reported that there was a breakthrough with the smell problem with Waihe’e Marsh Makai. The Waihe’e marsh area (near the canoe halau) has filled with fresh water and as a result there was a very strong smell only in that area. He will report back on mitigation plans for strong smells from the marsh...”

Bender moved and seconded by Machado to accept the September 2006 minutes as corrected. The motion carried unanimously.

TREASURER’S REPORT – Treasurer Bender reported the Publicity Account has been increased, allowing enough funding to do videotaping with Olelo.  Current expenditures in the Operating Account were $81.25 leaving a balance of $1,221.16; no expenditures in the Publicity Account leaving a balance of $993.00; and no expenditures in the Refreshment Account leaving the balance at $120. The Treasurer’s report was accepted subject to audit.

Discussion followed: 1) Cappella suggested using the high school to videotape. 2) Chair Okuda asked Treasurer Bender to get further details and report back to the Board. Panoke moved and seconded by Wolfgramm to place Board videotaping on the November agenda. The motion carried 11-1-0, with Piper voting no.

It was noted videotaping of Board meetings would be put on the November agenda for action.

PRESENTATION:         

CHARTER AMENDMENTS - Chuck Narikiyo presented the following: Honolulu City Charter, the “constitution” of our City was first adopted in 1959, with major revisions since 1973, amendments must be approved by a majority of voters in the general election. The current Charter Commission is the fourth Charter Commission since 1973, has 13 Commissioners received more than 100 formal proposals, held 35 public meetings in 2005-06, and 12 the questions were selected for the ballot are:

1. Change term limits, staggering of terms for City Council be replaced by alternative A or B; and separately to address concerns relating to election of City Council members caused by reappointment every ten years, should staggered terms be replaced by Alternative A or B?

2. Alternatives for term limits, staggering if question one is approved should A (term limits for Councilmembers and the staggering of Councilmembers’ terms shall be eliminated) or B (Councilmembers shall be limited to serving a maximum of three consecutive four-year terms, and the staggering of Councilmember terms shall be eliminated) are adopted.

3. Land Conservation and affordable housing – Should one percent of annual property tax revenues be appropriated to funds for land conservation and affordable housing.

4. Curbside Recycling – Should the powers, duties, and functions of the Director of Environmental Services include comprehensive curbside recycling?

5. Civil fines for ethics violations – should the Ethics Commission have the authority to impose civil fines on elected officials for ethics violations?

6. Races with two candidates in General Election – Should races with only two candidates be held in the General Election instead of the Primary Election?

7. No Council rejection of Salary Commission – Should the city Council’s power to reject Salary Commission recommendations be eliminated?

8. Pedestrian- & Bike Friendly Honolulu – Should one of the priorities of the Department of Transportation Services be to make Honolulu a pedestrian-and-bicycle- friendly city, and should the powers, duties, and function of the Director of Transportation Services include bikeway systems?

9. Liquor Administrator exempt from civil service – Should the Liquor Administrator, Deputy Administrator, and secretary be exempt from civil service provisions?

10. Emergency Services Director and Fire Chief – Should the Charter be amended to state the additional services currently being provided by the Director of Emergency Services and by the Fire Chief?

11. Extended time for capital funds – Should capital budget appropriations lapse 12 months after the fiscal year, instead of the current 6 months?

12. Additional electronic notice; housekeeping – Should the Charter be amended to provide public notice by electronic medium and for housekeeping amendments (i) to conform to current functions and operation, (ii) to conform to legal requirements, (iii) to correct an inadvertent omission, and (iv) for clarity?

Questions and comments followed:

1. Relative to question 2, Panoke inquired if there are no staggered or term limits would Councilmembers qualify for civil service retirement benefits. He stated that would cause a financial impact on the taxpayers. The question is unfair without giving information to the public and should be eliminated from the ballot. Graham added that it is an economic issue.

2. Regarding question 3, a question was posed as what kind of program for affordable homes does the City currently have. In response to who makes the decision, City Council, the Mayor, and public to establish regulations and ordinances. Who would be the beneficiary of the affordable housing fund?

3. As to what constitutes acceptance of votes, Narikiyo answered that blank votes are not considered.

Panoke moved and seconded by Wolfgramm that the Kahalu’u Neighborhood Board No. 29 send a letter to the Charter Commission recommending adding the Hawaiian Language to their list of foreign languages for voters.

Discussion followed: 1) Panoke pointed out that the State Constitution of Hawaii lists the Hawaiian language as the official langue He stated that every other language is printed except Hawaiian. Chair Okuda announced the motion carried 10-1-0, with Cappella voting no.

Narikiyo added that there are no pros and cons in the handout. A decision was made that the Charter Commission remain fairly neutral on the subject, thus less information to the public.

Chuck Narikiyo was thanked for attending the meeting.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: All items listed under unfinished business were tabled.

NEW BUSINESS:

Hui Iwa Street Bus Stop (makai of Hui Kelu Street at the intersection of Hui Iwa Street): Chair Okuda relayed that receipt of guideline for the bus stops. In response to Panoke, the request for no installation of a bus stop at the above mentioned intersection was in April 2006.

Discussion followed:

1)       Resident Elaine Tadaki relayed she spoke with a Sandra Aban of the Department of Transportation Services (DTS) who informed her that a representative from DTS would attend tonight’s meeting. Folasa from Chair Dela Cruz’s office confirmed in a call made to DTS that the Director is out of town and the information would be given to the Mayor’s representative who would be able to answer questions on the issue.

2)       Chair Okuda stated that this issue would not be resolved this evening and allowed the guests to give their testimonies for and against the bus stop. Everyone was reminded that each had two minutes to speak.

3)       Patrick Ellis spoke in favor of the bus stop and said there are ways to mitigate the problem.

4)       Judith Foo was against the installation of the bus stop because it directly affects her residence. Previously her dog was abused, people loitering on her property and in her garage, and leaving trash 24/7. A call to DTS resulted with them telling her to call the police. She also fears retaliation.

5)       Other residents stated that the request for no installation of the bus stop was made in April 2006. Chair Okuda said he sees the need for a bus stop, but there are issues to neighboring properties such as trespassing, etc. Panoke stated this is a critical issue and a representative from DTS should be present.

6)       Geboski and Machado both agreed that the issue would not be resolved this evening and suggested pressure is put on the DTS director to solve the problem. Chair Okuda reiterated that opinions might be voiced this evening due to concerns and safety issues.

7)       A comment was made that the announcement that no representative from DTS would be present should have been made at the start of the meeting.

8)       Mayor’s representative Craig Nishimura offered to take all written testimonies and request that the DTS Director attend the Board’s November meeting.

Questions and comments followed:

1)       Linda Debo questioned what happens if the bus stop is installed before the next Board meeting. Panoke recommended asking the Mayor’s representative to go to DTS requesting a hold on the project until after the Board’s November meeting.

2)       LeVasseur inquired if there is a possibility of making it an express bus stop only, which would take pressure off the community.

By unanimous consent the Board will ask Mayor’s representative Craig Nishimura to ask the Department of Transportation Services to put a hold on the bus stop installation at the intersection of Hui Kelu and Hui Iwa Streets until after the Neighborhood Board 29 November 8, 2006 meeting.

REPORTS BY PUBLIC OFFICIALS:

Governor’s Representative – Ed Underwood of the Governor’s office reported the Kaneohe Regional Council rules for Kaneohe Bay have been amended (HCR 173). He was available for questions.

Questions, answers and comments:

1)       LeVasseur inquired as to why a boat last registered in 2004, gone through three owners, is on private property is considered abandoned and the new owner unable to have the boat registered. Underwood responded the issue is that the paperwork must go back to the original registered owner that may be responsible for back fees.

2)       With regards to the amended rules, Mench explained that the new Kaneohe Bay rules were never adopted and put into effect. At one time rules statewide were put in a packet. A recently installed placard at Heeia Kea fronting the boat ramp indicated thrill crafts allowed. According to the KBRC the area is found to be in conflict as what kind of activities are allowed there. New changes to the rules are in direct conflict with divers, fishermen, etc. He pointed out that the rules are not legal and no public hearing has been held. Underwood relayed that they are following the master plan and will follow up on the new rule changes and possible removal of the thrill craft placard.

3)       A comment was made that there is no need for a designated Jet Ski area in Kaneohe Bay.

4)       Mench questioned why the aquatics division has no say on the issues.

Ed Underwood was thanked for attending the meeting.

Mayor’s Representative – Craig Nishimura representing Mayor Hannemann gave the following report:

v      A new drivers’ licensing office is being constructed at the Koolau Shopping Center to accommodate Windward residents. Panoke asked if the Board could be involved in planning of the opening ceremonies.

v      A call was made to Chief of Police Correa requesting more police presence on Hui Iwa Street due to speeding. Also, spoke with DTS director relative to a possible traffic-calming device in the area. Panoke noted no traffic-calming devices are wanted. According to Debbie Franco from the City, traffic-calming devices are no longer being installed.

v      Relative to Kahalu’u District Park, a revised plan is in the process for a new drainage system and awaiting a response from the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) regarding the park. Iida was the original contractor for the district park.

Questions and comments followed:

1)       In response to Panoke relative to the start of the project for the Kahalu’u District Park, to date no answer has been received from DPR. Approval is still need for the revised plan. Panoke stated that nothing was mentioned at last month’s meeting about a revised plan. The reply was that the City is trying to expedite the schedule as soon as possible. Nishimura will follow up with Director Les Chang of DPR. Panoke commented with the new information given tonight, the community is at the mercy of DPR because it could take another 90-120 days for the approval of the revised plan, which was not in the agreement, that sets the project back six months.

2)       Cappella reported that Island Landscape contractor for the Regional Park landscaping is not completing the job and returns to do plant maintenance approximately every two weeks, and asked for their work schedule.

3)       Chair relayed that the park is still with the City’s Department of Design and Construction (DDC) and questioned what is the maintenance contract with Iida and who will the contractor be under the revised plan.

4)       Machado wanted to new the completion date for the entire Kahalu’u Regional Park project. Panoke remarked that a meeting he attended in August with the City’s Managing and Deputy Director, DPR representative and the DDC team, the main concern was the soil and agreed upon to delay the project until the proper soil and irrigation system could be installed. He stated that the Board was not informed that the process must be repeated with the revised plan. Nishimura will follow up with the DPR director.

5)       LeVasseur acknowledge receipt of the stream clean up, but noted the notice is late. If property owners do not clean up the streams he suggested first a warning followed by a timeline and then a fine.

6)       A comment was expressed that it is unfair to ask private owners to clean streams from other people (rubbish, etc.)

Craig Nishimura was thanked for attending the meeting.

U.S. Congressman Ed Case – Yvonne Kearns noted that U.S. House passed Resolution 2529 for a memorial for Kalaupapa on Molokai (residence for Hansen disease patients). A Pupukea Pamalu grant has been awarded for the State park across from Sunset Beach.

Mench thanked the Congressman for his services.

Yvonne Kearns was thanked for attending the meeting.

Council Chair Donovan Dela Cruz – Katherine Folasa distributed the monthly written report and noted:

1)       Why term limits need to be revisited and its repeal considered. The problem – The Federal Government conducts the census every ten years, two-years after that, the Reapportionment Commission reapportions the City Council Districts in an attempt to keep each district equal in population. The potential problem is that some residents may find themselves represented by a Councilmember they did not have the opportunity to vote for in an election. The solution is to vote yes on Charter Amendment 1.

2)       Requests for investigation and services report (RISERS): a) regarding speeding on Hui Iwa Street requesting traffic calming. b) Lights at Kahalu’u ball field. c) Tree watering at Kahalu’u Regional Park. d) Department of Parks and Recreation for the Kahalu’u Regional Park plans relative to the contractor to initiate a meeting with the Board chair and City directors.

3)       Awaiting responses pertaining to stream and drainage channels.

Questions, answers and comments:

1)       Vermeesch asked what will be done with the diving boards at Kaneohe District Park and added the boards were installed many years ago for public use to promote diving There is no one there to regulate use, so diving is not allowed. He asked if the boards would be relocated. Follow up will be done. Geboski inquired as to the status of the children’s wading pool, because there is no lifeguard on duty.

2)       Chair Okuda thanked Folas for all her assistance with the property tax workshop. Machado relayed that the property tax workshop went well and the Board should have another one next year. Folasa will initiate with Council Chair Dela Cruz regarding property tax incorporated it in their newsletter.

3)       Panoke thanked Council Chair Dela Cruz and his staff for their help with the Sunset at Kualoa at Kualoa Ranch. He announced that the first day 4,000 were in attendance and 6,000 on Sunday.

4)       Folasa announced the next High-Capacity Transit Corridor meeting is scheduled for October 24, 2006 at He’eia Elementary School. This is the only meeting scheduled on the Windward side between He’eia and Laie.

Katherine Folasa was thanked for attending the meeting.

Senator Clayton Hee – No representative was present.

Representative Colleen Meyer – No representative was present.

COMMITTEE REPORTS: There were no committee reports.

The agenda was taken out of order to Filling of Vacancy, Subdistrict 2 (one seat), which was earlier deferred.

Filling of Vacancy, Subdistrict 2 (one seat) Continued – Chair Okuda repeated that Morris nominated Jean Paul Renoir and seconded by Bender to fill the vacancy. David Henkin expressed interest in filling the vacancy and was nominated. Keala Naluai also expressed interest in filling the vacancy. Discussion followed. Panoke called for the question and seconded by Piper. Chair Okuda announced the motion carried 10-1-0, with LeVasseur voting no.

Chair Okuda asked the nominees if they not mind stepping outside of the meeting room while the vote was taken.

Vote 2: Chair Okuda announced that the motion failed to carry 6-1-1, Naluai 1 (Cappella), Renoir 6 (Graham, Okuda, Mench, LeVasseur, Panoke, Piper), Henken 4 (Machado, Bender, Vermeesch, Geboski). A majority vote of 8 is needed for a motion to pass.

Vote 3: Chair Okuda announced that the motion carried 8-3-0; Renoir 8 Cappella, Graham, Okuda, Mench, Panoke, Bender, Piper, Vermeesch); Henken 3 (Machado, Bender, Geboski); Naluai 0. The neighborhood assistant administered the oath of office newly appointed Board member Jean Paul Renoir.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Ř       Next Board meeting will be on Wednesday, November 8, 2006, KEY Project, at 7:00 p.m.

Ř       Agenda item requests must be directed to the neighborhood assistant two weeks prior to the Board’s meeting. The neighborhood assistant will then send the draft agenda to Chair Okuda for finalization.

 As Chair Okuda asked if there were any other community announcements, an audience member noted that she had asked for a personal written response from the Neighborhood Commission on a board representation issue; Spray reported that the issue was mentioned in the September 13, 2006 Regular Meeting Minutes by Luersen where Luersen has explained to the requester that because the issue was asked at a public meeting it had been answered at a public meeting and could therefore be found in the public minutes. Spray said he remembered that the issue had been discussed by phone calls between the Neighborhood Commission Executive Secretary Joan Manke and the requester, with the requester replying that Manke hasn’t talked to her. Spray said he would report the request for a written response to Manke. 

ADJOURNMENT – The meeting adjourned at 10:00 p.m.

Submitted by Nola J. Frank, Neighborhood Assistant