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KAHALU'U NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2006

KEY PROJECT 

CALL TO ORDER: Treasurer Daniel Bender called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. At 7:03 p.m. Vice Chair Amy Luersen arrived and resumed the meeting. Luersen announced that board election candidate forms were available at the back of the room. Everyone interested was encouraged to fill out a form. Deadline for board election candidacy is Tuesday, January 16, 2007 by 4:30 p.m.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Robert Cappella, Emil Wolfgramm, Morris Graham, Jean Paul Renoir, Rocky Kaluhiwa, Arthur Machado, Jr., Kurt Mench, Wayne Panoke, Kenneth LeVasseur, Daniel Bender, Amy Luersen, Gregory Geboski.

MEMBERS ABSENT: George Okuda, John Piper, and Rich Vermeesch.

GUESTS: Wayne Thompson, Dr. Morgan Barrett (Governor’s Representative/Department of Health), D. Keala Naluai (MOKM), Jerry Kaluhiwa, Captain R. Libed (Honolulu Fire Department – Kahalu’u), Albert Badigo, Jr. (WWCA), Richard Shipp, Roosevelt Freeman and Leslie Chow (Representative Colleen Meyer’s Office), Barry Usagawa (Board of Water Supply), Richard Garcia (WWCA), Doug Goodman (HCHP), Bernie Lum Ho (WWCA), Lum Ward Prunre II (WWCA), Patrick Elisary, Shannon Wood (Windward Homeless Coalition), David Henkin, Rick and Crystal Towill, Daniel Bishop, Paul Reppun (Kalopa’a), Joe and Pat Rojos (WWCA), Calvin Hoe, Chris Lopez, Charlie Reppun, Valerie Hashimoto, Lucy Salas, Pat Salas, Craig Nishimura (Mayor’s Representative/Department of Design and Construction),  Mr. & Mrs. Goodin, Nola J. Frank (Neighborhood Commission Office staff).

ITEMS OF CONCERNS NOT ON THE AGENDA:

1.         Abandoned Vehicles – Richard Shipp reported abandoned vehicles before the long bridge near Heeia Kea Pier in the wetlands. He mentioned a land swap of the property was done with the State. Kaluhiwa mentioned that part of that property is owned by the McCabe family and is out of the Board’s jurisdiction. Chair Luersen added although right out of the board’s boundary line, the Kaneohe Neighborhood Board and the Kahaluu Neighborhood Board have both expressed continuing interest in the wetlands and the State park. This issue will be referred to the Governor’s representative.

2. Resident Complaint to Neighborhood Commission on Residency– Naluai said the board’s November 2006 agenda had the complaint issue and she was not afforded the opportunity to speak. Chair Luerson asked for clarification with Naluai saying the Board’s response letter to the Commission that was read at the November 2006 meeting about the complaint that a board member does not reside in his Subdistrict. Naluai said she gave a letter to the board member asking for his response and she asked the board to write a letter to the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) relative to this long-standing fraud. Chair Luersen explained the letter and that it is Naluai’s right to raise the issue regarding a board’s member is not legitimately living in the community. As volunteers, the board relies on the NCO elections staff to determine the eligibility of residents. The response letter to the NCO read by Luersen in November 2006, was in response to the NCO asking the staff to certify the election results and to tell the board whether or not this person resides in the community. There is no way for board members to make that determination. Chair Luersen reiterated that the issue has been raised numerous times. As a board member, Luersen stated the issue should be resolved and the letter of response was to the NCO asking for help in understanding what the issue is, and it is the job of the NCO to do that. The board does not verify election results. Chair Luersen offered to put the issue on February agenda.

7:05 p.m. Renoir arrived (12 members present).

3.         Celebrate Kaneohe – Rocky Kaluhiwa distributed a flyer from the Koolaupoko Hawaiian Civic Club with information relative to “Celebrate Kaneohe”. The purpose is to plan and implement a celebration of Kaneohe, recognizing the people, important places, and the magnificent history by bringing together the entire community in a series of events and activities between May and December 2007.

INFORMATIONAL SESSION:

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD): Captain Libed reported statistics for the month of December 2006 included 4 fire related emergencies, 28 medical and 6 miscellaneous response calls. Fire Safety Tip – Fire, building, and U.S. postal codes, along with City ordinances, state that all property owners shall place their house number so it is legible and visible from the street or road fronting your property. This will assist the Honolulu Fire Department and other first responders in locating your home quickly in the event of an emergency.

Captain R. Libed was thanked for attending the meeting.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD): Lt. Robinson reported an arrest was made yesterday at Kualoa Beach Park. Seven more charges have been added against the suspect. Statistics for burglary, auto theft, and UEMV (unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle) should show an increase in next month’s statistics. For the month of December statistics include 4 graffiti, 114 speeding, 7 abandoned vehicles, 332 moving violations, 9 citations for park closure, 8 DUI, and 160 parking violations. Narcotic/Vice closed 4 of its 15 cases. More abandoned vehicles have been removed, but the towing companies have a shortage of storage for the cars.

Questions, answers and comments:

The City does not tow abandoned vehicles from private property. If the vehicle is stolen HPD can recover it from private property. 2) Machado raised concern regarding marked abandoned vehicles at Heeia Kea Park, in which the cars have been destroyed with the windows smashed, and is unsightly to look at. Lt. Robinson replied there is at least a two-week time frame for removal. Per a new ordinance, HPD could tow parked vehicles with expired tags. Private towing companies are yet to be reimbursed for services by the City. The City has one towing company under contract for Oahu, but there is no plan of where to store the towed vehicles. 3) With reference to abandoned vehicles, Kaluhiwa said she witnessed tires being removed and called 911 twice with no one responding. Lt. Robinson explained that calls are prioritized and in this area there are no officers available waiting for calls to come in, they are responding to calls  all the time. The owner of the abandoned vehicle must be contacted before an arrest can be made relative to the removal of the cars parts. 4) Cappella reported a chop shop in Waikane Valley and asked why there is no moratorium tow zone. The response was that the City marks abandoned cars, and reiterated that storage of these vehicles is a problem. Lt. Robinson was thanked for attending the meeting.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Barry Usagawa reported no water main breaks for the month of December. The BWS 2007 Water Conservation Calendars were distributed. This year’s theme is Xeriscaping, a method of using certain plants and design to minimize the amount of water the garden will require to continue to look fresh and green. The calendars are available to the public at the Beretania location or could be found on the website at www.boardofwatersupply.com/cssweb/display.cfm?sid=1430. Water Saving Tip: Your tap can release up to three gallons per minute depending on your fixture, don’t let it run! Low flow toilets use only 1.6 gallons per flush, as compared to the older ones that use 3.5 to 7 gallons. Switch your old toilet today and take advantage of the low flow toilet rebate. For more information check out the website at www.boardofwatersupply.com and use the conservation pull down menu to get to the special programs and rebates sections.

Barry Usagawa was thanked for attending the meeting.

Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH): No representative was present, but the monthly report was available for interested persons to review.

Kaneohe Bay Regional Council (KBRC) – Art Machado will be attending his first meeting representing the Kahalu’u neighborhood Board is April 4, 2007. He missed this month’s meeting because he did not receive an agenda, but has since been put on the mailing list to receive them.

Question and comments: Kaluhiwa mentioned she attended the last meeting and DOCARE officers made a presentation regarding staging officers at Heeia State Park. . She requested this item be placed on the February agenda and that the presentation by DOCARE be made to the board. Chair Luersen reiterated that at the October 4th KBRC meeting, DOCARE presented a package requesting to be located at Heeia State Park. She added that the board took action in the past.

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

• Page 8, item 11 should read, “...Geboski asked Mr. Young if Mr. Young was truly contending, as seemed to be the case, that the state had no legitimate authority to address health or safety issues if the possible threat to health or safety originated on private property. Young acknowledged that the state could have such authority, depending on the law and the case. Young noted that no determination of health or safety hazard had been determined in the case under discussion...”

• Page 8, item 13 should read”...6. Geboski said that there were two separate answers needed from government authorities a) Information on how to determine if this particular case constituted a health or safety hazard that could be referred to a government authority; b) General information on the state’s and the county’s power to intervene in possible health or safety issues originating on private property...”

• Page 9,  Board Complaint Action add, “...The concern is a current board member not residing in his subdistrict...”

Bender moved and seconded by Machado to accept the November 2006 Regular Meeting Minutes as corrected. The motion carried unanimously, 12-0-0.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Treasurer Bender reported expenditures in the Operation/Publicity Account was $139.56 leaving a balance of $1,996.22; no expenditures in the Refreshment Account leaving the balance at $120.00. The treasurer’s report was accepted subject to audit.

Videotaping of Board Meetings by Olelo – This item was tabled.

 UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Kahalu’u Neighborhood Board Recognition Program – Bender suggested that the board recognize community members who conserve energy such as using Phillips light bulbs, etc. The idea is to recognize neighbors that save energy. Ideas could be brought to the board to be placed on the agenda.

Questions and comments: 1) Luersen said the item could be put on future agendas under announcements. 2) Panoke commented the idea is a good project to take to the community. He suggested utilizing the Publicity fund by doing a 96744 newsletter and incorporate the project with the Celebrate Kaneohe events. Chair Luersen added there might be a question as to how the Publicity funds can be spent.

Pulama Road Closure Update – Mayor’s representative Craig Nishimura reported Corporation Counsel has no jurisdiction over a private road and it is up to the owners whether they want to open the road. If they want to make it into an emergency road they may need to take the matter up with emergency response agencies. If allowed, the road could possibly be a Capital Improvement Project (CIP).

Discussion followed:  LeVasseur commented the last major accident near the Hygienic Store caused a major traffic jam. He would like expanded use of Pulama Road as a bypass going from Ahaolelo, down Waihe’e Road, to Wailehua to the other side of Pulama Road. When the last major accident occurred, privately owned buses and trucks were detoured through the back road. In the event of future major accidents a bypass could reroute traffic or large vehicles through a back road. Chair Luersen said it is a good thing to look for alternative bypass roads. However, the issue is something that cannot be resolved at a board meeting. She recommended that the Safety/Transportation/Environment Committee look at the issues, and when ready come back to the board with recommendations for the board to work with the City to try to implement solutions. Panoke agreed to meet as a committee, hold community meetings, do a board presentation, back to the community for input and report the results of the community meeting to the board. He stated this is a major public safety issue.  2) Panoke noting this is a public safety issues asked Nishimura what the next step would be for the City would intervene. Nishimura said he was not sure. Panoke asked that legal counsel be approached with the question. Nishimura added he thinks the next step of the process would be discussion of condemnation, which they would want to avoid. Wolfgramm said one example is an alternative land swap not condemnation. Panoke stated he was not advocating for condemnation, but used it as an example. Nishimura said basically Kahalu’u is looking for a bypass road like the one created on the Leeward Coast to get traffic around the accident. Panoke added he thinks the memorandum of agreement was worked out between the private owners. Chair noted that is what she hopes the committee could look into. 3) An audience member suggested it would make sense to contact the City’s Department of Transportation Services to establish some kind of dialogue to see what they have to say. Chair said that the issue is not a City road, but a private road and explained that is why the conversation is at the board first. Given that it is a private road, the board would like to look at options to provide and alternative bypass in emergencies. Folasa added just because Corporation Counsel does not agree on something does not mean that it cannot be changed. 4) Wolfgramm said condemnation is not the only legal recourse, but an alternative land swap could be done. Panoke stated he was not advocating for condemnation, but used it as an example.

Iuiu Street Run-off Update – Art Machado reported to date no report has been received from Governor’s Representative Peter Young, Director for DLNR or Mr. Kawamoto. Machado expressed concern because he had received phone calls from Kahala area people relating to Kawamoto because of the Iuiu Street issues. He said Iuiu Street residents are supposed to be meeting with TV station reporters. This issue was referred to the Governor’s representative present. LeVasseur commented that the City allowed itself to go through a lien process to solve an issue and asked Barrett if the state does the same. Follow up will be done. Nishimura said the City’s Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) is willing to send inspectors out to Kawamoto’s property. Machado stated the issue has been on the agenda since March 2006. An audience member commented that the courts ruled on an issue saying an adjoining owner could cut trees abutting his/her property. Chair Luersen responded the trees in question are on conservation land and that a permit from the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is needed to cut trees of that size.

NEW BUSINESS:

“Smoke Free Workplace Law” – Valerie Hashimoto sought definitions relating to Act 295, relating to the smoke free workplace law. She raised a concern about a transitional living arrangement through Mental Health Kokua where residents both live and receive treatment. The Department of Health smoke-free pamphlets provided define other living conditions, but do not address this particular situation. Since the law went into effect, a few changes were to the transitional house made such as adding curtains around the lanai area facing her property. According to the act, if it is a place of employment, “no smoking” signs should be put up for employees. A room designated for smoking should be provided. She added that because the residents have a mental health condition they smoke in public. Hashimoto asked who then inspects the house to say what things need to be changed and work with the household to solve these problems. If the problems are unsolved, who then comes to do enforcement and inform them that if not solved a fine could be imposed for violations. Governor’s representative Barrett will follow up.

Waiahole Valley Lot #79 – Mench said that he requested this agenda item because of an article in the Honolulu Advertiser and to give the community a chance to address the matter. He called the State for information and was told the matter comes under the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) an agency with the Department of Business Economic Development and Tourism. The State is looking for proposals from responsible parties for the maintaining of the lo’i (about 2.5 acres) that would be public noticed sometime this month. A non-exclusive revocable permit would be issued to maintain the lo’i, the watershed, and Hawaiian cultural practices.

Discussion followed: Richard Garcia (President, Waiahole/Waikane Community Association) – There are no issues other than the fact mentioned by Mench regarding the revocable permit to be issued to a responsible organization chosen by a committee appointed by the HHFDC. The process will start on January 15, 2007 when applications will be available to organizations. WWCA’s position has been consistent throughout the history regarding Lot 79 where there has been illegal occupation and three cease and desist orders. At two previous State board meetings it was specified that there was to be only maintenance of the lo’i and no planting. The State’s stipulation has been disregarded. At the December 14, 2006 meeting it was again reiterated that no visitors are allowed at the lo’i, only maintenance (weeding, etc.) An inspection of the lo’i by the WWCA last Saturday found planting going on. That has been a continuous violation throughout the tenure of the organization using Lot 79. WWCA raised the issue with the HHFDC because the position of the organization is still that no one should be in that particular lot because of the declarations that runs with every lessee in the valley. The declarations specifically states (including lot 79) that the lot be left as open space for the people who have leases and their families including the common areas. Due to some legal ramifications, HCDCH recognizes WWCA request for an attorney general opinion regarding the matter. Danny Bishop (President, Kalopa’a Organization) – Kalopa’a is a non-profit organization practicing stewardship on Lot 79 for approximately 10 years. His opinion is that part of the problem is the interpretation of the convenance and what the term trespassing means. A brief history of the lot was given noting that it was purchased by the State with tax dollars, and the State supports the lo’i that has been restored on Lot 79, also known as Kualele. He said he would welcome a vote from the board in support of the State’s action seeing the lo’i as a valuable resource and recognizing the accomplishment.

Discussion followed: Robert Cappella asked Bishop about statements regarding Hawaiian ditches, reporting that Bishop had made different presentations at the prior meetings. After gaveling several times, Chair Luersen reminded people about order and decorum requirements for the conduct of public meetings, stressing the need for civility. Cappella asked Luersen if she had a conflict of interest on the issue. Chair Luersen replied no and that it would be discussed later in the meeting. Her job at the moment as Chair of the board is to maintain order and decorum and that is the job she is doing. Chair Luersen explained that she would allow community members to speak first with a three-minute time limit, and then the board members. Wayne Panoke – Panoke deferred as a Native Hawaiian. Patrick Elisary – Regarding the lease, asked the purpose of Lot 79. Wayne Thompson commented he individuals working together at the lo’i doing are a good job. Pat Rojos asked if Vice Chair Luersen had a conflict of interest on the matter. In response, Chair Luersen said she is a board member of Hui Ulu Mea Ai. In the past, Kalopa’a had asked the organization to get insurance for them, which they did. She stated it is not a conflict and will relinquish the gavel and explain after all comments from the community are heard. Crystal Rose suggested ho’oponopono for both groups. Pat Salas commented the issue for her is other people coming into the valley, there is a cease and desist order, but no respect for the residents. She stated the area belongs to every legal tenant. Calvin Hoe thanked the board for the opportunity to clear up misunderstandings and disagreements. The disagreement of legality of what Kalopa’a is doing. Consultation was done with the Attorney General’s office several years ago that opined he is not doing anything illegal because he is a lessee. However, there is no written statement from the Attorney General’s Office relative to legalities. At the State’s suggestion mediation attempts were made, but the issue was not resolved. He would agree to ho’oponopono. In summary, from the start it has been an education program with Waiahole Elementary School students. The program should continue as the results are good and developing taro farmers. L. Garcia asked who holds the liability insurance. Albert Badigo, Jr. said residents should be shown respect. Bernie Lum Hoe gave a brief history of the area and lot and said now the area needs to have an Environmental Impact Statement ((EIS) done due to contamination. Relative to Kalopa’a he commented they have been on the empty lot for ten years. Lucy Salas noted that Hoe did receive documentation from the State. Mediation was offered through the State, and the community willing to work with Kalopa’a; they said no. Chris Lopez said to leave the lot as open space. Paul Reppun commented there is two sides to every story. The land was bought with taxpayer money, and no one has ever been told they are not allowed up the valley. Joe Rojas questioned through the judiciary system, what agency is in charge of enforcement. Charlie Reppun commented he is a former WWCA member and was told not to attend meetings because of the water issue. Regarding legal or not, who says what is or isn’t. There has always been a project open for everyone, and have always wanted to work together.

Panoke called a point of order for a five-minute recess. Machado moved and seconded by Kaluhiwa that the Board recess for five-minutes.

Discussion followed: Chair Luersen said that it would be a bad situation holding off comments from the board to address the issue. Mench suggested if already said, that the comments not be repeated. The motion failed 7-5-0. Aye: Wolfgramm, Kaluhiwa, Machado, Mench, LeVasseur, Panoke, Geboski. Nay: Cappella, Graham, Renoir, Bender, Luersen. A vote of 8 is needed for a motion to pass.

Lot 79 discussion continued: Pat Rojos said ho’oponono did not work because neither side wanted to give in. Ho added that the misunderstandings regarding opportunities should be discussed.

Geboski called a point of order relative to the vote on the motion. It was explained that a vote of 8 would be needed in order for a motion to pass (Half plus one of board seats). Bishop apologized to the board for getting upset. Richard Garcia said at the December 14, 2006 HCDCH meeting a vote to grant a revocable process was taken; all members voted no. Charlie Reppun asked the status quo of the cease and desist order. He offered to collaborate.

Board discussion: Chair Luersen relinquished the gavel to Treasurer Bender. Wayne Panoke asked what is the outcome or action the groups are seeking. In response to Wolfgramm, Mench noted he spoke with the department agency who did not say it had to be a non-profit organization. The board pushed for Hawaiian place names. He reiterated the name for Lot 79 is Kualele. Geboski asked if both organizations accept legitimacy of the State and follow what decision is made whatever the outcome. Bishop replied he is in support of the State’s decision. Mr. Garcia responded if the decision to the declaration were contrary a lawsuit would be filed. Amy Luersen explained as a member of Hui Ulu Mea Ai, she has attended several meetings at the Waiahole Poi Factory on the issue. The State’s decision in December was to try to resolve the issues once and for all. Her prospective is to move forward. Selecting one group over the other is the State’s role. What we feel is important in our community.

Luersen moved and seconded by Panoke to accept the following resolution:

• The Community taro Lo’i located in Waiahole Valley is located on a portion of Lot 79, Kualele; a lot designated as Open Space within the Waiahole Agriculture Park.
• Whereas, the State of Hawaii, Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) has recognized the “importance of preserving these lo’i from a cultural and watershed restoration perspective”; and
• Whereas, the HHFDC intends to issue a competitive Request for Proposals that will result in a revocable permit in order to provide proper stewardship of this site; and
• Therefore Kahalu’u Neighborhood Board No. 29 is excited about this opportunity because the restoration of lo’i is critically important to many sites within our community; and
• Kahalu’u Neighborhood Board No. 29 supports the HHFDC intent to issue a permit to provide stewardship of the site and urges the State to do this as expeditiously as possible; and
• Further, Kahalu’u Neighborhood Board No. 29 urges the HHFDC Board to ensure that a Stewardship Agreement for use of the property be conducted in a manner that is culturally and environmentally sustained by requiring organic agriculture practices and management of the watershed and
• Kahalu’u Neighborhood Board No. 29 further urges the HHFDC Board to ensure that a Stewardship Agreement for use of the property include non-exclusive use and opportunities for education work groups to learn about taro cultivation and watershed stewardship.

Discussion followed. The resolution carried 10-1-1. Aye: Wolfgramm, Graham, Renoir, Machado, Mench, LeVasseur, Panoke, Bender, Luersen, Geboski. Nay: Cappella. Abstention: Kaluhiwa.

9:05 p.m. – Five-minute recess. 9:10 p.m. – The agenda order resumed.

Windward Homeless Coalition – Shannon Wood, President of the Windward Homeless Coalition reported this non-profit organization has been doing work in Waimanalo at the beach parks. Twenty to thirty-five services are provided to the homeless. The organization is in the strategic planning process to formally organize, develop by-laws, etc. The group is looking to increase outreach. Doug Goodman of the Honolulu Community Action Program (HCAP) was introduced. The coalition is currently sharing office space with HCAP, located at 47-232 Waihee Road. Shannon Wood was thanked for attending the meeting.

REPORTS BY PUBLIC OFFICIALS:

Mayor’s Representative – Craig Nishimura reported candidates are needed for the Neighborhood Board Elections and candidate forms were available on the back counter. Regarding the Hui Iwa/Hui Kelu Streets bus stop/speeding, at meeting with the Department of Transportation Services, currently traffic counts are being done and follow up will be done. Chair Luersen said the bus stop area will be monitored and concerns addressed as they arise. Panoke asked how wanted to know how the issue was resolved. Luersen replied the issue was raised at the meeting. Due to rain as a concern, DTS looked at warranted bus stops, counted bus riders, and felt that this particular bus stop had sufficient ridership. Elisary commented that the City made it clear and worked with the neighbors, who made daily calls to DTS for updates. Luersen noted comments suppose to come before the board before anything work occurs, by that time the bus stop would be put in. A meeting with the contractor for the Kahalu’u Regional Park is scheduled for next month and would like two board members to attend. Chair Luersen asked that the Kahalu’u Master Plan board be included at the meeting. It was suggested he board form a Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) so that more than two members (7), but less than a quorum (8) may attend the meeting. According to the current schedule the work should be completed in about a year.

Panoke moved and seconded by Renoir to form a PIG group regarding the Kahalu’u Regional Park meeting. The motion carried unanimously, 12-0-0 (Cappella, Wolfgramm, Graham, Mench, Renoir, Kaluhiwa, Machado, LeVasseur, Panoke Bender, Luersen, Geboski). Chair will select members to the PIG group at the next meeting.

Questions and comments: 1) Panoke asked when would the sporting teams be informed. Nishimura replied, if the plan is feasible at the meeting. It was suggested that John Reppun (KEY Project) be contacted relative to the meeting. 2) Kaluhiwa requested 24-hour bus service for the Windward side. 3) Regarding Iuiu Street, Mench reiterated that the run-off is from State conservation land that runs into City pipes that are not sufficient to accommodate the water. Folasa said it is taking the State a while to respond and a RISER would be sent from Councilmember Dela Cruz’s office. 4) LeVasseur raised concern for constituents regarding a pig farm (47-445 Waihee Place) burning swill (cooking pig slop) and the smoke creating health issues to surrounding neighbors. A notice of violation was issued to the property owner, but the burning continues. Wayne Thomson said a complaint was filed with the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) that informed him the pig farm permit has a grandfather clause. Thomson added that the owner started sub-leasing to other tenants to operate the pig farm. An audience member added the burning occurs four to five times weekly. Mrs. Goodin said a call to the Department of Health (DOH) was referred to the Clean Air branch that informed her there are no regulations regarding open burning pertaining to pig farms. This concern will be put on the February agenda. Craig Nishimura was thanked for attending the meeting. Craig Nishihara was thanked for attending the meeting.

Governor’s Representative – New Governor’s Representative Dr. Morgan Barrett of the Department of Health, circulated the Weekly news and was available for questions. Vice Chair Luersen reiterated the issues raised tonight for follow up: a) smoke free workplace; b) Heeia Kea pier junk car s (located mauka side on the Kahalu’u end of the long bridge) – clarification of State’s boundaries; c) Iuiu Street issue regarding drainage and trees on conservation land from a neighbors property; d) DOCARE – request representative present the package to the board regarding an office at Heeia State Park.

Questions and comments: 1) Cappella asked the duties of DLNR because there are off-road bike riders destroying the land and riding across the stream in Waiahole Valley (riding in the mountains). The off-road bike riders have a website. Regarding the website, LeVasseur noted a rally (2002) announced on My Space and emailed it to Bob Masuda. 2) Cappella wanted to know about the wetlands at the end of Waihee Road and asked for protection of the birds and ducks (endangered species) that live there. This issue would be placed on the February agenda. Dr. Morgan Barrett was thanked for attending the meeting.

U.S. Congress-elect Mazie Hirono – No representative was present.

Councilmember Donovan Dela Cruz – Katherine Folasa distributed the monthly report. She announced that this would be her last board meeting and would be working in the City’s Elections department. The mass transit plans have been put in motion. Councilmember Dela Cruz is chair of the Public, Health, Safety, and Welfare Committee. The Kaneohe Department of Motor Vehicles offices opened on December 21, 2006 at the Koolau Shopping Center. Resolution 06-346 (2006) relating to the park has been deferred until the next meeting. Request for investigation, services and report (RISERS) have been submitted for the Kahalu’u baseball field and tree watering at Kahalu’u Regional Park. The office is waiting for the rules and regulations for maintenance of streams. Under investigation is illegal parking at King Intermediate School. Katherine Folasa was thanked for attending the meeting.

Senator Clayton Hee – No representative was present.

Representative Colleen Meyer – Roosevelt Freeman distributed the written report and noted: The Representative is accepting proposed legislation from constituents. Kahekili Highway Beautification has finally gone out to bid. The total cost of the project is $4.12million, with eighty percent funded with federal funds. The job will include landscaping, irrigation systems, and new aesthetic treatments to the walls along Kahekili Highway.

Questions and comments: 1) Cappella asked what happened to the proposed project near the Hygienic Store with the road widening and staggering lanes.  Machado wanted to know what would be done with the project now that Mr. Haraga is no longer with the State Department of Transportation. He mentioned that the project should have started in November 2006. Vice Chair Luersen added that the project was approved in the 2000 budget. The community wanted the intersection (Kahelili/Kamehameha Highways) modified, but no roundabout or stoplight. Roosevelt Freeman was thanked for attending the meeting.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Water Conservation and Allocation – No report.

Safety/Transportation/Environment – LeVasseur reported the committee would work on the Pulama Road issue.

Parks and Recreation – No report.

Planning – Mench reported he would check with the Kahalu’u Town Planning.

Preservation of Hawaiian Heritage – Panoke reported the committee is working on the correct name of the Kahalu’u Regional Park.

Legislation – Bender reported he asked how to submit a Capital Improvement Project (CIP) for the City’s budget.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: 1) Neighborhood Board Elections deadline for candidate filling is Tuesday, January 16, 2007 by 4:30 p.m., Neighborhood Commission office or postmarked January 16, 2007. 2) Next Board Meeting will be Wednesday, February 14, 2007, KEY Project, 47-400 Waihee Road, at 7:00 p.m. 2) 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.

ADJOURNMENT – Without objections the meeting adjourned at 10:05 p.m.

Submitted by:                                                               

Nola Frank                                                       

Neighborhood Assistant