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DRAFT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
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CALL TO ORDER: Chair Kathy Bryant-Hunter called the meeting to order at
MEMBERS PRESENT: Larry Bartley, Kalana Best,
MEMBERS ABSENT: Joe Harding and Charles Prentiss.
GUESTS: Mark Nierode, Tim Roberts, Representative Cynthia Thielen, Senator Jill Tokuda and Kamakana Kaimuloa (office staff), Maria Gorak (Homeless Animals), Senator Fred Hemmings and Barbara Krasniewski (office staff), Capt. Dale Mosher (Honolulu Fire Department), Brian Canevari, Joe Gillman, Bob Watts,
Board member Wong arrived at
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Board member Lindgard arrived 7:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: While the PZ&E Chair Wong set up, the agenda was taken out of order to item 3B, Executive Committee; there were no objections.
Executive Committee – Bryant-Hunter offered the committee motion. The KNB establish a standing Committee on “sustainability” to include issues relating to density limits, infrastructure capacity, growth policy, tourism, etc. Bryant-Hunter explained that this is in response to a question from the November Board meeting requesting that the Board look more closely at broader sustainability issues that the B&B and TVU Permitted Interaction Group could not. Many issues in the Draft Oahu Tourism Plan that could not be addressed and some issues were not able to be addressed without a specific standing committee. A standing committee is one that meets regularly, on a monthly basis, and has a published agenda.
Discussion followed: 1) Glanstein said that under etcetera (etc.), it is unclear what will be put in there; and asked that the phrase “social impact” be added for a better fit in all capacities of infrastructure, growth policy and tourism. 2) Bartley spoke in favor of the motion. There is a need to look at population impacts and infrastructure and growth usage. The committees are trying to address the issues but not having the handle on it - not knowing where the new people are coming from, who they are, why they’re here, how long they’re staying, etc. It’s not only about B&B’s or TVU’s - it’s about tourism and the population increase. He suggested gathering information on related issues of population increase, infrastructure usage and growth, and the only way to approach it is to form a Committee on Sustainability. Chair Bryant-Hunter read the modified motion The KNB establish a standing Committee on “sustainability” to include issues relating to density limits, infrastructure capacity, growth policy, tourism, and social impacts.. The motion carried by unanimous consent, 17-0-0. Aye: Bartley, Best, Brown, Bryant-Hunter, Chinen, Corcoran, Correa, Dowsett,
Board members wishing to participate on the committee included: Brown, Ure, Wong, Wisch, Glanstein, Bartley, and Porter. Chair Bryant-Hunter will (in January) establish, by email, a consensus of the members on the logistics (establishment of date, time, and location) and report in February that information; no other discussion will initiate.
Planning, Zoning and Environmental Committee – Chair Bryant-Hunter clarified with Committee Chair Wong and announced the published motion to request funding from the legislature for Total Maximum Daily Load, as it relates to the State Department of Health, is not up for discussion or action at this time.
AGE
· 10 structure, 7 brush, 1 rubbish, 5 vehicle fires; and 74 medical, 5 search/rescue and 41 miscellaneous emergencies.
· One major incident – December 20,
· Fire Safety Tip: Fire, building, and U.S. postal codes, along with City ordinances, state that all property owners shall place their road, house or property number so it is legible and visible from the street, or road, fronting the property. This will assist the
Questions and answers followed:
1. Glanstein thanked Mosher for coming tonight and asked the status of the medical helicopter service. According to the newspaper, Mosher noted that money is being put aside and the possibly using a private agency; also that a mainland agency that does this type of service submitted two proposals - $3.5 million for 12 hours of service per day; and $5 million for 24-hour service. Oahu’s Black Hawk unit is currently in
2. Referring to the visibility of identification numbers on resident/building addresses, Bartley noticed in the business districts of
3. Evans was in contact with the Fire Prevention Bureau regarding the shooting in December at Zippy’s
4. Lindgard shared pictures of the propane tank with the bullet hole in the dumpster and stated ongoing problems with gun control and people driving crazy. He stated the police collected 13 bullet casings (and he, being a weapons expert for many years), the angle of the trajectory was a matter of incredible luck. There needs to be protection for the people in the buildings nearby because that scenario could happen again. There should not be a propane tank there, regardless of the current regulations. There is a gas line in the middle of
Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – Lt. Richard Robinson, assigned from the Kaneohe Station, gave the following statistics for December 2006:
· 21 burglaries – increase of 2; 50 thefts – increase of 10; 33 theft from autos (UEMV) – increase of 11; 2 robberies – increase of 1; and 20 auto/motorcycle thefts – increase of 11.
· 14 new graffiti cases in the Kailua/Waimanalo area, an arrest of two juvenile males for graffiti at Oneawa and Mokapu; and 34 DUI arrest in December; and no Narcotics Vice report.
· Traffic enforcement – 130 speeding citations, 180 moving violations, and 16 miscellaneous.
· Parking complaints – 102 parking citations in
· Skate boards in the roadway complaint in Maunawili – the area in question does not have sidewalks, is that correct? Ure responded that the Maunawili area does have sidewalks.
Questions and answers followed:
1. On behalf of the Maunawili community, Corcoran phrased HPD for their quick, timely and professional response to calls relating to fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
2. Evans asked where on the statistic report the problems, or arrests, at
3.
4. In response to Bartley, Lt. Robinson was verifying information having to do with the skate board complaints and whether there are sidewalks in Maunawili; and that changes whether it is a violation or not.
5. Wong asked if the community does not have sidewalks and kids are skate boarding in the streets, isn’t that a violation. Skate boarders are considered to be pedestrians, so if there are sidewalks then you need to be on the sidewalks; if not then you need to walk on the left side, or shoulder, of the road. Wong questioned if the skate boarder is on the road and not in the setback, can they not be cited? Lt. Robinson read if sidewalks are not provided, any pedestrian walking along or on the highway (which means any roadway), shall, when practical walk only on the left side of the roadway or its shoulder facing the traffic which maybe approaching from the opposite direction.
6. Regarding the shooting at Zippy’s, Lindgard understands that HPD has an off-duty officer every night now. Robinson believes that all the Zippy’s locations hire special duty officers from midnight to 4 or 5 a.m. Lindgard believes there are many people that feel, as he does, that the propane tank is a public danger and asked HPD’s support, in light of the recent shooting, to come up re-enforcing enclosure of the propane tank. Not knowing what the Board’s procedures are, Lt. Robinson would take that question back to his command.
7. Evans was troubled by the category of beat 459, where
Marine Corps Base
Events: 5 January – Navy League will award six military spouses in Mayor Hannemann’s office tomorrow for their tireless support of their military spouse and unit. Mrs. Faith Cowart is the wife of a Marine currently deployed to
Issues: Noise Advisory - Several flights of F-18 aircraft will com through the Marine Corps Air Facility as part of a
Transatlantic movement. This may result in an increased noise level on several days throughout the month.
Public Scoping Meeting – the Department of the Navy plans to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement regarding the feasibility of replacing the P-3C aircraft at Marine Corp Base Hawaii with P-8A aircraft. The Navy is looking to that replacement either at Kaneohe Marine Corp Station or Hickam Air Force Base in 2011. No decisions have been made, and a detailed study will be conducted. A Public Scope meeting will be held January 18 at
Chair Bryant-Hunter noted receiving information about that particular handout from a community member.
Questions and answers followed:
1. Best referred to the noise advisory and about specific time schedules. Maj. Perrine knows there are specific times, but is unable to announce that information for protection reasons.
2. Polly Pool initially wondered how she would be able to get the information out to the community because the Scoping meeting is the same night at the Kaneohe Neighborhood Board meeting. She pointed out the following things: a) the P-8A is designed to carry torpedoes, missiles and naval mines; and b) thinking of using them for surveillance, anti submarine warfare, anti surface warfare and reconnaissance. Pool really doesn’t know what these things mean but feels it’s a good idea to find out in advance; and they’ll be looking to see how the communities feel about this; and she would just like to get the information out to the public and possibly the only chance to response to the information. Maj. Perrine said that community response is very important and what the military wants is certainly for the community to be involved and giving feed back; also, as far as ordinances and missions, and is a replacement and strictly for aircraft training; and the military would like for the community to be involved with the process.
3. Wong wanted to verify that this aircraft will be doing the same operations, except that it is more modern and larger. Perrine did not know if it’s larger but know that it’s newer and would have to defer to the Navy on the specifics; and could not response on the noise level impacts, which Wong felt the noise level would be a real concern; Bryant-Hunter said Pool mentioned noise as a potential issue and that the article infers that; Wong asked how do we find out if there is a great increase in noise level in time to respond. Bryant-Hunter suggested attending the scoping meeting and raising the issue. She stated that attendance at the scoping meeting is a valuable thing if it is a concern to the community.
4. Corcoran thanked Maj. Perrine for picking up on this and asked for clarification that the situation now is that C17 aircraft do their touch and goes at Kaneohe Marine Corp Air Base.
Chair Bryant-Hunter reminded everyone that the Scoping Meeting will be held on Thursday, January 18,
Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Devon Nekoba dropped off the annual BWS conservation calendar; there was no report, however, if there is anything in particular that the Board would like for them to address, they would come and make a presentation, otherwise, they would continue to provide reports.
Comments followed:
1. Wong would like to hear from BWS about how much water is left in light of all the upcoming developments.
2. Lindgard mentioned that BWS wants to demolish Dams No. 1, 2, 3 and 4 in Nuuanu because it is not safe and to reinstate the natural flow in the valley; but what’s being looked at is several years of neglect. Chair Bryant-Hunter said a presentation regarding the dams is noted.
3. Glanstein said a committee on sustainability has been established and one of those areas included infrastructure capacity; and it would wise for BWS to come and speak on those specific issues, as well as costs.
Bryant-Hunter will try to get BWS to come next month and respond to those questions. There were no representatives or reports from Emergency Services Department (EMS) and Honolulu Liquor Commission (HLC).
COMMUNITY ISSUES & ANNOU
American Cancer Society “Relay for Life” – Briggs Christie, Chairperson and Facilitator for the Kailua Relay for Life event is coming back to Kailua on Saturday, July 14 at Kailua Beach Park; a week later than normal due to a scheduling conflict. The signature fund raising event is not only to raise funds for breast cancer but about the community coming together to raise awareness and what’s being done with those funds. The Kailua Relay for Life is one of the more successful events in the state, and is trying to develop it into a more involved community event. For example, 16 years ago, a male’s chance of dying from testicular cancer was 100%. With testing, like the PSA test, and treatment, a male is only 3% likely to die from testicular cancer. Christie would like the Board and community to be more aware of what’s going on and get involved. There was additional information at the sign-in table or log onto: www.cancer.org or call 262-5124.
Corcoran pointed out there are serious questions about the PSA and mammograms and something we should all be aware of. Christie agreed and noted the PSA score of 38 is considered normal.
I Love
A motion was entertained to add an agenda item for discussion/action. Chair Bryant-Hunter noted a two thirds vote would be necessary. Ure moved,
Evans moved, Chinen seconded that the KNB support I Love Kailua Block Party request for street closure permit to City agencies, Department of Transportation (DTS), and Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP), for April 29, 2007. Discussion followed: 1) Evans said it is a no-brainer. 2) Best would like to know if there are alternate sites. Ress noted the 21-year event held in the parking lot eventually got too large with more and more people attending. The group looked at a number of other sites. 3) There were concerns whether the event is advertised and parking impacts. Ress said a press release went out in the Advertiser; and regarding parking impacts, she noted receiving no parking complaints. 4) Glanstein supports the motion and has favored the event each year since it began – it is a great event and the Board participates in it. The event will be held Sunday, April 29th.
Homeless Animals – Maria Gorak said the Legislature will soon begin and asks for help from the community and the Board in for bills important to homeless and abandoned animals. She suggested using community service as a means for additional staffing for private sanctuaries, which are struggling to save abandoned pets. Friendly abandoned cats do not fare well in feral colonies because they are kept from feeding areas and leaving the animals on the street is equal to a death sentence. She suggested fines from animal cruelties violations should be donated to shelters and sanctuaries. The Lani Huli management is killing birds and their chicks and that should be a crime. Some tenants don’t clean up their lanais for years birds are nesting in the rubbish. Hallways currently have foul smelling areas where irresponsible tenants do not clean up after their pets.
Homeless Sites in Kailua: VII a.1 and 5 - Jim Wood commented both motions, Kaleheo Hillside and the Municipal Parking Lot on Alike Street should have been opposed last month by the Board. He wonders why they are on the agenda for this month if they were decided last month. Bryant-Hunter stated the Committee wanted to address other specifics on these issues at following board meetings. Additional suggestions could be developed to address to the City. Wood felt the opposition to the sites was a NIMBY position and cannot see the Board as likely to change its position by having it on the agenda again. He therefore felt he would be wasting his time to speak on the issue. Wood felt that both motions should be opposed as the information is incomplete as the slope is unsuitable when, in fact the entire island is unstable and it is just a mater of technology as to what can be built where. The other motion should address parking, not address a particular structure being built on it. Wood felt that would be much more appropriate.
ELECTED OFFICIALS:
Councilmember
Mayor’s Representative – No representative was present.
Governor’s Representative – Mark Recktenwald reported with follow-up responses from last month:
· Potholes in the Pali tunnel,
· Closing of
·
· Rock Slide Mitigation – the project is scheduled to be finished in May 2007 and an additional two months to restore the roadway. Other related concern – DOT is aware of the water ponding during the heavy rains and it is being monitored; should it occur again, contact Gerald Pang, DOT or Recktenwald.
· Trees on the hillside – Wong’s concern: in talking with DOT most the trees will have to be removed before the mesh netting can be installed on the hillside; their hope is that the vegetation will re-grow. He did express the concern and structurally most of the trees will have to be removed.
Questions and answers followed:
1. Corcoran asked to clarify the confusion regarding the media’s announcement from Governor Lingle that Mr. Rod Haraga was leaving his position to go somewhere else, and a second media announcement from Mr. Haraga that when he got back from vacation he was surprised that his services were no longer required; Corcoran was wondering which way that story went. Recktenwald did not know and was not a participant in that discussion, but he did hear the Governor say that Mr. Haraga was leaving to pursue other interest. Barry Fukunaga, replacing Rod Haraga, is a very sensible hard working person sensitive to the community. Recktenwald had the opportunity to work with Fukunaga over the pass few months and feels he would make an excellent director and will convey the concerns of the Board to him.
2. Bartley stated that it seems, in all likelihood, that mass transit will come to Governor for more taxes above the current half percent. He asked whether the Governor would sign into law allowing more than the half percent to fund the rail system. He’s also hearing from neighbor island people who have to buy from retail on
3. Glanstein also understands that the Executive Officer of the Youth Services Department is leaving or has already left and do you know of her replacement; Recktenwald will try to find out.
4. Wong said one of the good things about Director Haraga was that he was very accessible, came out to the neighborhood board to answer their questions; and was very refreshing. She hopes that the new director and Governor take that into consideration and is as open and willing to dialogue with the public. As he mentioned earlier, Recktenwald had the opportunity of working with Director. Fukunaga on an issue last summer and got to know him very well; hard working, diligent and sensitive to the community. Recktenwald will let him know how much this Board valued Mr. Haraga coming out to talk directly to the Board.
5. Chair Bryant-Hunter said that she and Evans, Transportation Chair, will be sending a letter to Mr. Haraga thanking him for his services and letting him know what a difference it made to have him come out to talk directly to the Board and how much the Board appreciated his service.
6. Evans wanted to say one thing--that for whatever reason, there should have been a survey taken on how the people felt; and she knows that his relationship with the Legislature wasn’t the greatest, but believes that if a survey had been taken of the people that he helped it would have been overwhelming. To email him and getting immediate responses and it was very refreshing. Recktenwald will let Director Fukunaga know that he has some high expectations to meet.
Representative Thielen’s report was circulated.
Senator Fred Hemmings – Senator Hemmings distributed his report and followed up on: 1) The EA (environmental assessment) for the
Questions and answers followed:
1. Bartley asked several questions: a) regarding the excise tax increase – he knows that the Governor didn’t pass the tax increase, but did she authorize one level of ½% or is it the county that sets that level. Hemmings said the law he voted against was by constitution the City & County of Honolulu, unless otherwise stated by law, is unable to raise taxes unless those taxes are property taxes; and what legislature did is pass a law to allow them to raise the excise tax for the County for an explicit purpose, such as a rail transit system initiative. Bartley asked is that law limited to ½ %; Hemmings replied yes. And also that your tax at the County level is more likely to go up in the extreme because of the property tax increases and assessment evaluations going up and the city will not adjust the rate to any great extent so that will result in another windfall of tax increase to County. b) Is Hemmings expected to see any legislation coming down the pike for mass legalization of transient vacation rentals or bed and breakfast at the State wide level? Hemmings said there is current legislation at the County level, but he will be introducing legislation that will establish a statewide stabilization with figures for visitor accommodations because there are a lot of loop holes in the process. He believes strongly about the carrying capacity. When market forces the supply and demand ironically, capping the number of hotel rooms will have a very positive affect on hotel industry.
2. Regarding the KHS Access Road issue, Glanstein said every single legislator on the windward side and both sides of
3. Wong asked: a) where the money goes of the fines collected from the cruelty to animals put into shelters to take care of animals; and whether it could be earmarked. Hemmings was not sure but thought it went into the general fund; also those monies could be earmarked at the City/County level and could take some legislation to create a special fund for the organization to collect the monies. b) In Hemmings report, the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has a task force that’s looking at maintaining maximum commercial activity at
4. Evans said she read, with a lot of concern, the letter by the school principal and there were so many erroneous statements; do you know where she got her information or has anyone met with her to discuss this. It is very disconcerting. Hemmings agreed it was extremely disconcerting because one of the results ofthe misrepresentation was that someone from
5. Chair Bryant-Hunter believed she read that Peter Young and DLNR’s budget that coming before the Legislature includes substantial resources for enforcement staff and asked if that’s correct. Hemmings said yes; Peter Young’s budget includes more enforcement capabilities so he can administer his duties. Hemmings firmly believes in establishing ocean zoning. We have land zoning, we need ocean zoning.
Representative
Questions and answers:
1. Corcoran suggested examining the
2. Bartley stated he had no problem with returning traffic violation fines to the Police Department, however, he thinks it undermines the credibility of the Police Department when people know the Police are getting paid for citing them. In his opinion, speed limits on
3. Glanstein stated that one issue coming before the legislature, such as amending Chapter 92, the “Sunshine Law” as the Office of Information Practices (OIP) submitted several pieces of legislation last year and none of them were supported. While we do not have the language, yet, it is hoped that Waters will hear any such legislation in his committee as the discussion needs to be heard. Waters stated he was open to that.
4. Evans commented on the disconcerting letter from the KHS principal stating some members of the board think the principle is trying to divert attention from the audit of the High School to Access Road. Evans asked for the current position of members of the legislature. Waters noted that the legislature worked at getting the money for the Access Road and is not backing off from that. The argument presented got him thinking that something needed to be done. It had become a public safety issue from
5. Wong reminded that the proposal was to get traffic out of the community; therefore there is a solution for the issue; as was the major purpose.
Senator Jill Tokuda – Senator Jill Tokuda introduced her community liaison, Kamakana Kaimuloa. Senator Tokuda reported on: 1) Committee assignments: Vice Chair to the Education, K-university; Water, Land, Agriculture; Hawaiian Affairs ; Ways and Means; and assigned to the Hawaii 2050 Sustainability Taskforce and will serve as Co-Chair of the Women’s Legislative Caucus. 2) Launching of her Legislative Internship Program. This will give high school students from Windward Oahu the opportunity to learn about the legislative process first hand; and assisting them with tracking bills from start to finish. Letters will be going out looking for outstanding students from Olomana, Kalaheo,
Questions and answers followed:
1. Corcoran thanked Senator Tokuda coming and verified that her community liaison likes to be called
2. Responding to Evans, Senator Tokuda is in favor of the Kailua High School Access Road.
Representative Cynthia Thielen – Representative Thielen was present earlier and distributed her report.
There was no representative for U.S. Congresswoman Mazie Hirono; no report was available.
BOARD ACTIONS:
Planning, Zoning and Environmental Committee – Committee Chair Wong stated that counter to what Jim Wood stated earlier, this motion is different from the position the Board took at the last meeting; the motion reads:
The Kailua Neighborhood Board supports that the Planning Zoning and Environment Committee send a Draft Letter requesting Department of Planning and Permitting change the land use designation from Urban to Conservation and corresponding County zoning from Residential (R-7.5) to Preservation (P-2) to reflect that the Kaleheo Hillside, TMK: 044033018, soil is unstable and not suitable for development. Wong asked to change the motion so that the letter comes from the Board, instead of the Board supporting a draft letter from the Committee; and to change the wording – requesting the Department of Planning and Permitting change the Land Use Designation. Although DPP cannot change the State designation; they can initiate an application to start the process to the Land Use Commission so that the zoning be changed from Urban to Conservation, which then would reflect that the corresponding zoning of P2 (preservation).
Chair Bryant-Hunter repeated the modified motion to state that the Kailua Neighborhood Board request that the Department of Planning and Permitting initiate the process to change the land use designation and the County zoning from Urban to Conservation and corresponding County zoning from Residential (R-7.5) to Preservation (P-2) to reflect that Kaleheo Hillside, TMK: 044033018, soil is unstable and not suitable for development. For the reasons heard at the last meeting relating to the instability of the soil and unless the designation and the zoning are changed this issue will continue to come before the Board. Without further discussion, the motion carried by unanimous consent, 17-0-0. Aye: Bartley, Best, Brown, Bryant-Hunter, Chinen, Corcoran, Correa, Dowsett,
The
Discussion followed: 1) Glanstein voted for this motion in committee and also knows there had been a suggestion at that time about the Development Plan in Kailua precluding the widening; she felt that it maybe best to withdraw the motion with regard to further investigation. Glanstein suggested it was not a good idea to amend the Development Plan. 2) Bryant-Hunter agreed with Glanstein and recommended withdrawing the motion; the need for additional information and to support Evans’ comments that there was discussion of a joint review of the issue. While Bryant-Hunter understands the City DPP is waiting, the Board could let them know that specific action will be taken in February. 3) Wong agreed to withdraw the motion.
Wong read the following City Council resolutions, in brief, as supporting information for the motion: Resolution 06-355 – relating to Indoor Amusement and Recreation Facilities: Proposing an amendment to Chapter 21, Revised Ordinances of Honolulu 1990 (The Land Use Ordinance), as amended, relating to indoor amusement and recreational facilities, and Resolution 06-356 – relating to Vacation Cabins: Proposing an amendment to Chapter 21, Revised Ordinances of Honolulu 1990 (The Land Use Ordinance), as amended, relating to vacation cabins. Wong explained that when an applicant applies for vacation cabins or amusement and recreation facilities on P-2 (preservation) land that a public hearing would be required and be declared a Conditional Use Permit – Major, instead of a Conditional Use Permit - Minor where a public hearing isn’t currently required on issues concerning preservation land.
Wong read the motion as relates to resolutions 06-355 and 06-356: The Kailua Neighborhood Board supports the intention of City Council Resolution 06-355 and Resolution 06-356 to require public hearings when recreational cabins are proposed and indoor amusement and recreation facilities on land zoned P-2 preservation. There was no further discussion. The motion carried by unanimous consent, 17-0-0. Aye: Bartley, Best, Brown, Bryant-Hunter, Chinen, Corcoran, Correa, Dowsett,
Wong explained that the motion was on a Draft Environmental Assessment for an after-the-fact Shoreline Management Area Permit (SMAP): In keeping with the Kailua Neighborhood Board’s policy to oppose hardening of the shoreline, the Kailua Neighborhood Board opposes granting an after-the-fact approval for a shoreline setback variance and seawall revetment at 1586-B Mokulua Drive, TMK: 4-3-001:013 and TMK 4-3-001:012. (Comments due
Bryant-Hunter explained that the Public Hearing is January 18, 2006, Therefore, a time sensitive issue for an after the fact shoreline setback variance with a fence exceeding the maximum 6-foot height at
Wong commented that having a motion added to close a whole street was supported and it affected a lot of people, meanwhile, not adding a motion on just one property that affects few people. If we do not follow the procedures set before the board, we end up with these inconsistencies.
Government and Community Services Committee – Committee Chair Chinen offered the Committee’s motion: The
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Civilian-Military Council – Corcoran supports Major Perrine’s earlier report.
Permitted Interaction Groups:
Enforcement of B&B and TVUs – Chair Wisch reported that a letter (on file) dated November 2, 2006 was sent to DPP requesting a meeting, that someone from DPP come and address the Board; and have received no response. He was told to contact Mike Fridel (who was on vacation); hopefully, a meeting can be arranged and DPP can come to the next Board meeting.
Property Tax Reform – No report.
Neighborhood Plan – Chair Chinen reported the Neighborhood Plan is still under review by Corporation Counsel and we are still waiting for their comments on the document to come back to the Neighborhood Commission. The Plan will be referred to as Neighborhood Plan 2007; and he would hope that it would not have to be referred to as Neighborhood Plan 2008.
Questions followed:
1. Bartley would like the Government and Community Services Committee to look at the deadline requirements on issues/requests coming before the Board for approval; a heads up, or previous notice of what’s coming up before the Board so that it can be processed appropriately.
2. Corcoran commented that it seems this is an issue to be looked into by the Executive Committee;
3. Chair Bryant-Hunter felt starting with the Government and Communities Committee was appropriate so that the Board can better understand which issues require Board approval and the timeliness of those items.
4. Ure commented that the earlier Mokulua address in Lanikai that was attempted to be put on the agenda tonight was not received by the Board until the 16th of December which was too late to be put on the PZ&E Committee, therefore having to come before the Board as an addition to the agenda, not a committee recommendation (as it has not been noticed for the committee). The problem was the same with Kailua Cool Nights and the I Love Kailua Town Party. The Board is not getting the necessary information early enough.
5. Bryant-Hunter said time sensitivity of an issue can be discussed in the Executive Committee for what can go on the agenda and the timeless of those issues. The Government and Community Services Committee can discuss the timeliness in genera, for process. Any late notifications can still be added to the agenda as a non-committee motion as has been done in other instances.
Government & Community Services Committee – Jon Chinen, Chair
Legislative Liaison Update – Glanstein reported the Draft EA report is with Parsons Brinkerhoff. Two presentations were requested on the Draft EA (environmental assessment), one to the Committee and one to the Board.
City Council Task Force review of Neighborhood Board System Update – Glanstein reported the Task Force progress has perhaps been interfered with by the holidays and any progress intended; she will keep in touch with the liaison on the progress of that Task Force. Chair Bryant-Hunter informed Jim Wood, Taskforce member would be available in February to give an update to the Board.
Charter Commission Update – Glanstein reported the Charter Commission is over; will have to wait to see how some of those Charter Amendments are implemented.
Comments: 1) Wong felt the comment by the
Mass Transit costs to
Questions followed:
- Bryant-Hunter asked to review in total what was received and the five questions. Ure said there were 24 responses to the questionnaires for a number of months.
- Question 1: On
- Question 2: Do you currently ride a bus; the response was 50/50 for yes and no.
- Questions 3: How frequently do you travel to
- Question 4: What is a fair rate of fare – for one-way only, round trip, monthly pass, zone fare, or free; and everybody liked the idea of free for seniors and disabled, but otherwise similar to rates that we have currently and one respondent who expressed a much higher fee should it be Rail. $1-3 for one-way; $2 for round trip, and anywhere from $20 to $120 for monthly pass; and one interesting comment – “It’s about time us taxpayers get a break.” referring to FREE.
- Question 5: Would you support an eventual spur linking
- Wisch questioned the number of people the surveys were sent to; Ure noted the survey was sent to the mailing list of the Board’s minutes and agendas for four months running and available on the Board’s website. One problem you have with surveys is that until people are financially impacted (by the increase in tax) folks sometimes don’t realize they needed to fill out the survey; and surveys are not only way to find out what folks think, however, surveys are a very good way to illicit comments. Ure provided at least 20 to 30 surveys each month and the mail list is about 170, plus being available on the web; so there was opportunity to respond. Now that the Holidays are over we anticipate folks will continue to respond.
- Glanstein thanked Ure for compiling the data. We recognize that a survey is limited to those who actually respond to it and she thinks it’s fair; however, to say that there’s a good deal of opposition. Importantly: People still need to understand, and we need to repeat, that the H-3 was not built to benefit the Windward side; and it needs to repeat again, and again, that it is a military highway, and built to connect the military bases; and there has been a tangential benefit to Windward, however that was not its purpose. .
- Corcoran, as a member of the Maunawili Community Association , and representing the will of that community, why should they pin themselves down to 4 to 6, or more, billion dollar fixed rail system when the other alternatives do not tie us down like a fixed rail would; and the other alternatives wouldn’t cost as much. He admitted, as a board member, he did not fill out all of the survey questions and turn them in himself.
- Bartley spoke with Cliff Slader who has analyzed rail systems around the world for the last twenty years and asked him how we are to pay for this, and what numbers should the people know. While the ½ % tax increase is already in place, the State would probably not entertain any further increases because of the implications that would have for the neighbor islands. If everything else the City/County does is paid for in Property Taxes, the operation (less the fares) plus debt retirement, and maintenance and operation, how much will it cost us. Slader suggested our property tax will increase 40% over this year’s assessment just for the train. Should some of that come from gasoline taxes, then gasoline taxes will also increase. If your property tax is currently $2,500 then expect an additional $1,000 in property tax to pay for rail.
- Corcoran requested a point of inquiry. Does the Board wish to address the resolution that has come before it?
- Chair Bryant-Hunter stated the resolution offered to the Board is concerning an express bus guide way and Chair asked if anyone wanted to offer a motion and no one did.
- Wong moved and Corcoran second to offer the resolution text for discussion and action. Chair asked Wong to read the resolution.
RESOLUTION: Strong Support for the Express Bus Guideway
WHEREAS the multi-billion-dollar capital debt and operations subsidies for fixed rail transit are projected to carry forth for decades as a heavy financial burden borne by
WHEREAS this heavy taxpayer burden is as undefined as a) the purchase, operations and maintenance costs of the system yet to be proposed, b) the costs of the private properties yet to be determined to be taken by eminent domain, and c) the annual property taxes to escalate based on mass development and redevelopment along a fixed rail route alignment; and
WHEREAS a fixed rail guideway is inflexible and inconvenient with limited stops, and requires supplemental transportation at destination points; and
WHEREAS nationwide fixed rail data generally shows decreasing per capita ridership and escalating construction costs and operation subsidies; and
WHEREAS reversible expressways for upgraded express buses and high-occupancy community/corporate van pools is a mass transportation incentive proving increasingly successful throughout the country; and
WHEREAS an express bus guideway provides faster and more efficient and effective traffic congestion relief at less cost, and allows for far greater off-guideway flexibility and convenience using the same vehicles; now therefore
BE IT RESOLVED that the _______________________ Neighborhood Board strongly urges the City Council’s full consideration and approval of the express bus guideway as the transportation solution for communities from Kapolei to Manoa; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that copies of this Resolution be delivered to the Honolulu City Council; the Mayor of Honolulu; the Director of the Department of Transportation Services; the Director of the State Department of Transportation; the Hawaii State Legislature; the Governor of Hawaii; the Federal Highways Administration; the Federal Transit Administration; and all interested and affected community groups and individuals.
Discussion followed:
- Chinen asked the source of the resolution. Chair Bryant-Hunter stated the resolution was given to the Board by Michelle Matson, she has delivered this resolution to all neighborhood boards asking for their support. Michelle Matson is a Diamondhead Neighborhood Board member.
- Chinen asked if any other neighborhood boards have adopted this resolution. Chair Bryant-Hunter confirmed the KNB is the first Board to address it.
- Evans objected to the manner in which the resolution has been offered. As the impact will be to a lot of people, it should have been in the motion to adopt the resolution. Just because someone bring it to the board tonight does not mean the Board has to address it tonight. It is nearing
- Wisch agreed with Evans.
- Glanstein stated that this was brought to the KNB by Michelle Matson, a member of Neighborhood Board # 5. We have no indication whether or not her neighborhood board is in support of the resolution; or her neighboring neighborhood boards, or our neighboring neighborhood boards. There is no reason why we have to put it on the agenda or why we have to support this. Glanstein was concerned because it is attached to bill 92 and says nothing about bill 92. Glanstein opposed the motion.
- Chair Bryant-Hunter stated the issue is on the agenda and does not need a 2/3 vote to place it on the agenda. The motion being discussed is the resolution itself.
- Corcoran stated the subject was presented by the City last month and there was great discussion contained in that meeting’s minutes, so it is not as if it was the first time this subject has appeared before the board. Corcoran suggested it was appropriate to offer the motion, or a resolution on this subject and it has been spoken to by a community member before this board. Corcoran supports the resolution.
- Bartley suggested he agreed with the first four Whereas, however, the last two he knew nothing about. It would be difficult to support the bus system without the cost or other information. Who would ride it, where it would go, the cost. Further, resolution and motions like this go through all the neighborhood boards and get very little review. Unless a neighborhood board drafts its own resolution and does its own research (such as the B&B TVU issue) you don’t get the impact. Even if 10 neighborhood boards pass this it will still be much less effective than if 10 neighborhood boards come up with their own resolutions or motions. And, if it fails, it will appear that this board supports the Rail system. The resolution should be withdrawn.
Ure requested the resolution and motion be withdrawn and committed to committee. Ure moved to commit, seconded by Wong.
- Chair Bryant-Hunter stated the appropriate committee would be Transportation and Public Safety and the motion is not debatable.
- Ure requested a point of order. Will the Committee hear this issue after one year of not hearing this issue?
- Evans said yes, she would hear the issue.
- Chair Bryant-Hunter repeated the motion to commit the Resolution for Strong Support for the Express Bus Guideway to the Transportation and Public Safety Committee. Without debate the motion carried unanimously. 17-0-0. Aye: Bartley, Best, Brown, Bryant-Hunter, Chinen, Corcoran, Correa, Dowsett,
Chinen stated all other items for Government and Community Services will continue to be addressed in committee.
The next Committee Meeting is the Third Saturday,
Parks and Recreation Committee – Chair Bryant-Hunter reported Enforcement Issues as relates to
Next Committee Meeting is the third Tuesday, January 16, 2007, 7-9:00 p.m.
Planning, Zoning and Environmental Committee – Chair Wong made the following announcements:
Presentation: Verizon Conservation District Use Application (CDUA) for stealth antenna in Lanikai;
Presentation: Mid Pacific Country Club Special Management Area Permit (SMA) re: maintenance buildings demolition and construction and presents to the board
Waimanalo Gulch
Response - Lead Pellets on
Draft Environmental Assessment (EA)
Transportation & Public Safety Committee – Faith Evans, Chair reported:
Traffic plans for sewer projects on
Ad-Hoc Committee on parking on unimproved sidewalk areas – Evans stated the issue will be discussed further in committee in an effort to bring motions to the Board in February to allow parking on unimproved sidewalk areas with specifics such as no parking when an unimproved side walk is next to a bike lane. .
Rockfall Mitigation Project Evans supported Recktenwald’s report.
Resolution for Strong Support for the Express Bus Guideway will be added to the January Committee Agenda from this evening. Evans stated if the Chair of a committee does not bring something to the Committee, a member or an outside member can bring something to the committee. Evans does not recall this issue having been brought to the committee. Various committees were working on the issue from a number of perspectives, however, nothing this specific.
Next Committee Meeting, Third Wednesday, January 17, 2007, 7-9 p.m. K lama
Executive Committee – Board Chair, Vice Chair, & Secretary/Treasurer
Status of Complaints – No update
Treasurers Report – Deferred.
BOARD ANNOU
1) Correspondence received at Board members homes are to be transmitted to the Board Chair and Secretary to assure it is placed in the correspondence file.
2) February Board and/or Committee Agenda items to Chair by Monday January 22, 2007.
Next committee meeting, Tuesday, January 23, 2007, 8:30 a.m. at Agnes’ Bakery-Kailua
ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business of the Board, Ure moved, Corcoran seconded to adjourn the meeting. The motion carried 17-0-0. Aye: Bartley, Best, Brown, Bryant-Hunter, Chinen, Corcoran, Correa, Dowsett,
Submitted by
Marie Richardson, Neighborhood Assistant
And Linda Ure, Board Secretary