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WAIMANALO NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

MONDAY, MAY 8, 2006

HAWAI’I ARMY NATIONAL GUARD AUDITORIUM

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Wilson Kekoa Ho called the meeting to order at 7:34 p.m. with a quorum present.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Nani Akeo, Peter “Kahana” Albinio, Jr., Kevin Andrews, David Bettencourt, Joe Birtles, Michael Buck, Phillip Ellsworth, Wilson Kekoa Ho, Andrew Jamila, Jr., Mabel Spencer, Solomon Spencer.

MEMBERS ABSENT: Joe Birtles, Bobbie Kahalewai, Blanche McMillan.

GUESTS: Cyndy Aylett (Mayor’s Representative), J. Ikaika Anderson (Councilmember Barbara Marshall’s office), Steve Cayetano (Congressman Ed Case’s office), General Robert Lee (State Civil Defense/Hawai’i National Guard), Senator Fred Hemmings, Heather Bankston and Kate Bepko (Senator Hemmings’ Office), Representative Tommy Waters, Captain Job Harris (HFD), Maj. Janna Mizuo, Capt. Michael Moses and Lt. John Cheong (HPD), Su Shin (BWS), Sandra Kunimoto (Department of Agricultural), Lt. Col. Patricia Johnson (MCBH Kaneohe), Capt. David Talafuse (USAF Bellows), Todd Lanning (Bellows), Chuck Braden (Waimanalo Health Center), Fred Welch (Hope Chapel Waimanalo), Roxanne Hanawahine and Paul Richards (WHHA), Bob and Yvonne Farrell (video producers), Kehaulani Padilla (96795 News), Shannon Wood (Windward Ahupua’a Alliance), Keoki Fraser (CHAMP), Keoni Fox (T-Mobile), Kimo and Tayshea Aiwohi (TAF), McKenzie St. Lawrence (HCAP), Kathy Morris (Hui Malama O Ke Kai), Priscilla Ho, Kim Kalama, Sui Lan Kepa, William Rodrigues, Joe Ryan, Steve J. Rodrigues (Neighborhood Commission Office staff).

ANNOUNCEMENT: Chair Ho announced: 1) He asked everyone to sign-in on the sign-in sheet and if you want to receive the minutes/agendas to check the appropriate box. 2) Handouts from tonight’s speakers are available on the sign-in table. 3) He introduced General Robert Lee of the State Civil Defense/Hawai’i National Guard, Sandra Kunimoto of the Department of Agricultural; Maj. Janna Mizuo of HPD, and Capt. Michael Moses also of HPD. 4) He extended his appreciation to Gen. Lee for allowing the Board to meet at the Hawai’i Army National Guard Auditorium. He also thanked those residents who have followed the Board during the past three months at its various meeting locations (i.e. Waimanalo District Park and Waimanalo Public and School Library).

PULE: Chair Ho said if prayer offends anyone, now is the time to leave the room. Ellsworth offered the pule.

EMERGENCY PUBLIC INPUT (Part I)

Honolulu Fire Department – Captain Job Harris reported: 1) For the month of April, the Waimanalo Fire Station responded to 8 fires, 48 medical emergencies and 4 miscellaneous calls. 2) Fire Safety Tip: “Prepare a fire escape plan. Map out your escape routes with at least two ways out of each room. Designate a location outside of the house where everyone can meet. Know where the closest phone is and call 911.”

Honolulu Police Department – Lt. John Cheong reported: 1) For the month of April in the Waimanalo area, there were 1 burglary, 8 other property thefts, 6 thefts from auto, 0 robberies, 3 auto/motorcycle thefts, for a total of 18 incidents. 2) He circulated Hawai’i Revised Statutes (HRS) moped laws 3) He introduced Maj. Mizuo and Capt. Moses. Maj. Mizuo said she’s been in the department for the past 20 years, 10 of those years in patrol and the majority in town. She is honored and looking forward in serving this district. Capt. Moses stated he’s been in the department for the past 27 years and this is his fourth assignment. He’s pleased to be back in the community – he is a Kailua resident.

Concerns and comments followed:

1) A resident asked if there are any specific areas where the crimes are committed. Lt. Cheong answered most of the break-ins are occurring in the Makapu’u area.

2) Andrews inquired about the possibility of getting a police substation for Waimanalo. Capt. Moses stated they would have to put in the request in the fiscal year 2007 budget. Andrews asked if the community could either donate a trailer or the money for the substation. Capt. Moses answered it would need to be approved by the Chief. Also, before a substation is approved, they would have to address the problem with staffing. There are four beats, but only three are filled. Councilmember Marshall is working on acquiring more funding. Chair Ho asked Lt. Cheong to follow-up.

3) Jamila mentioned a couple of weeks ago a pack of youths (about 10 sixth to eight graders) were in front of him on Kalanianaole Highway, Makapu’u-bound, driving slow and zig-zagging. Behind him, were 20 vehicles. He suggested having Capt. Frank Fujii do a PSA (public service announcement) that it is against the law to ride a moped Kalanianaole Highway or any highway. Parents and grandparents need to be educated. Most of the moped riders are underage and wear no helmet. Also, the dealers need to be educated because they don’t inform the parents the rules and regulations. He doesn’t want police to chase the youths and an accident occurs. Approximately two weeks ago, there was a fatality in Waimanalo involving a youth on a moped. He knew the family. Capt. Moses said HPD could do a C-TAP (Community Transportation Awareness Program). Officers have stepped-up enforcement. He agreed that they don’t want to pursue these individuals and cause an accident. They are trying to get the word out. Bettencourt stated he called 911 a number of times on this issue. His concern is insurance on these vehicles. The only way to solve this problem is to seize the mopeds. Capt. Moses noted if anyone has any problems with getting through 911 or you don’t receive a response, call the police station and ask to speak to a supervisor. Chair Ho indicated because residents of Waimanalo tolerate it, the problem is getting worse. Pocket bikes are also a problem. There is a saturating point.

(Albinio arrived at this time)

Mayor’s Representative – Cyndy Aylett reported on follow-up items: 1) All refuse convenience centers have 24-hour security guard service. Night security is necessary to preclude illegal dumping, theft and vandalism. According to the coroner’s preliminary report, the security guard at the Waimanalo Convenience Center apparently died of natural causes. The security company indicates the lighting was sufficient. 2) An update on the Waimanalo District Park improvements was circulated. 3) She gave Mabel Spencer contact information for consultant Paul Louie. Per Department of Design and Construction (DDC), Louie has no open activity with the City at this time, however, his contract remains open until his construction projects are completed. 4) Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) does not divulge information about who made a complaint, which is considered confidential.

APPROVAL OF APRIL 10, 2006 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES: Buck moved and Ellsworth seconded that the Waimanalo Neighborhood Board No. 32 approve the minutes as submitted. The motion carried unanimously.

RESIDENTS’ CONCERNS:

Vote on June Meeting – Second Monday is a Holiday – Chair Ho noted since the second Monday in June is Kamehameha Day holiday, the Board has three options – recess, meet on the first Monday or meet on the third Monday. Ellsworth moved and Bettencourt seconded that the Waimanalo Neighborhood Board reschedule its meeting in June to the first Monday. The motion carried unanimously.

Videotaping on Olelo for Fiscal Year 2007 – Chair Ho said the Board needs to make a motion to authorize its Publicity Account funds to pay Bob Farrell for videotaping the Board meetings on Olelo. Ellsworth moved and Jamila seconded that the Waimanalo Neighborhood Board authorize its Publicity Account funds to pay Bob Farrell to videotape on Olelo. The motion carried unanimously.

State Department of Agricultural – General Robert Lee, speaking as the head of the State Civil Defense, stated the recent heavy rains affect Kaua’i, Windward O’ahu, Mau’i, etc. He asked for the community’s kokua. When there are heavy rains, they need to get the rainwater to the ocean as soon as possible. The stream is owned by the City, State, and a private owner. They asked the private owner to cut the brush, clean the ditch, and don’t throw the trash in the stream. In case of an emergency (i.e. it’s raining heavy and the stream is blocked), call 211. We need to make sure the water goes straight into the ocean. President Bush appropriated federal funding for flooding victims. U.S. Senator Inouye also got funding. A state/federal Disaster Recovery Center will open

tomorrow through Friday, Kualoa Ranch, 12:00 noon to 8:00 p.m. He encouraged residents to file their claims. They had to evacuate a couple of families who reside near the Kailua Reservoir. The drain line was plugged because a tree fell and blocked the drain line pipe. The spillway near the Kalama’s residence was overflowing. Because of the failure of the dam on Kaua’i, the Department of Defense has the authority to condemn any reservoir. They had to do an emergency break to the Kailua Reservoir. The existing Kailua Reservoir is not safe. They are trying to have a natural drainage of water. Anti-erosion mats will be installed. The plan is not to evacuate any more people. He asked for everyone’s kokua in keeping their portion of the stream clean.

(Mabel Spencer arrived at this time)

There was lengthy discussion on this issue. Concerns and comments included: 1) General Lee answered: a) Kailua Reservoir holds four million gallons of water; b) The reservoir will have enough volume to handle the next flood (i.e. they installed anti-erosion mats, fixed the drain pipe in the ditch, and restored the dirt on the berm); c) At this stage, the dirt will stay in the reservoir; d) The reservoir was built in the 1930’s for irrigation; e) The key point from people in the community is that it’s about flood retention; f) There will be stream maintenance from the federal, state, and city, but there may be a problem with the privately-owned portion. They need the homeowners assistance. If you can’t do it, call 211; g) The State can monitor the reservoir. 2) Resident Kim Kalama thanked Gen. Lee and Army Corps of Engineers for taking out six tons of debris out of the reservoir. She appreciated the pipes being fixed. The last rains could have been catastrophic. The reservoir did drain. She raised a number of concerns. Kalama commended Gen. Lee for being a man of your word and coming out to the community. She also thanked Sandra Kunimoto, Department of Agricultural for coming out. Gen. Lee said it’s okay for the reservoir to be restored, but it’s up to the Waimanalo residents. The berm will be twice the thickness. Kalama said the community has to make a decision. 3) A resident said, at the very least, get the dirt and the silt out of the reservoir. Gen. Lee stated he would take a look at it. 4) Jamila had concerns that even though the trees are on land, the water will penetrate the roots. Gen. Lee said Kunimoto will follow-up. 5) Gen. Lee thanked the community for their kokua.

Board of Water Supply Increase in Fees – Su Shin stated BWS’ mission is Water for Life. Their goals are to sustain the island’s water resources, maintain a healthy organization, and provide their employees the tools and skills they need to serve their customers. BWS provides a great value to customers – rates are among the lowest for communities of similar size, and they haven’t risen in nearly 11 years. At the same time, the costs of providing service have grown steeply (i.e. electrical power, construction materials, fuel and labor costs continue to rise). Their aging system also needs continued investment to keep it in operation. The bulk of the pipelines are between 30 and 50 years old, and many are nearing the end of their expected service life. BWS has worked hard over the years to control costs and has been able defer scheduled rate increases since 1995. However, they can no longer postpone rate increases. To reduce impact on customers, BWS is proposing a multi-year rate schedule. In the first year of this program, they are proposing a system-wide rate increase of 13 percent, which represents a $3.23 increase in the average residential customer’s monthly charge. This means the water rate will go from $1.77 to $2.00 for 1,000 gallons of water. If approved, it would take effect on October 1, 2006. For more information, visit www.boardofwatersupply.com. A public hearing will be held on May 15, 2006, BWS Board Room, 2:00 p.m.

Concerns and comments followed:

1) Mabel Spencer asked how much did the new BWS billing format cost. Shin will follow-up. In order to separate from the sewer bill, they redesigned the billing statement. Spencer said she thought BWS had a surplus. Shin explained that BWS is not a for-profit utility company, but a public utility company. They will need to spend millions of dollars in infrastructure improvements.

2) In response to Buck, Shin stated after the initial 13% increase, the increases will be 12%, 10%, 8%, and 5% on July 1 of the succeeding years. After the first five years, BWS will seek modest cost-of-living increases based on the Honolulu Consumer Price Index.

Mabel Spencer moved and Andrews seconded that the Waimanalo Neighborhood Board opposed BWS’ rate increase. The motion failed 4-6 (note – a quorum of 7 votes is needed for a motion to pass).

Privatization of Bellows Housing and Long-Term Lease Concerns – Chair Ho announced a meeting to address this issue will be held on May 23, Ala Moana Hotel, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

T-Mobile Wireless – Keoni Fox was available for questions. Bettencourt moved and Ellsworth seconded that the Waimanalo Neighborhood Board No. 32 support T-Mobile Wireless proposal to install an 80-foot pole at 41-253 Lupe Street. Discussion ensued. Bettencourt indicated he did some investigation into this issue. If T-Mobile is approved for this project, other wireless companies will put their antennas on the pole. Improvement in services is needed because wireless service in Waimanalo is terrible. Jamila agreed that better coverage is needed, but he had concerns regarding changing the height variance in Waimanalo. He asked to defer this matter until he does some research. The motion failed, 2-8-0. Fox stated the height variance is a non-concern because the Land Use Ordinance addresses that issue. The property is zoned agricultural. T-Mobile is still in negotiations with the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL).

Community Resolution – Chari Ho circulated Bettencourt’s proposed resolution regarding illegal transient vacation unit rental businesses operating in Waimanalo. He also circulated a letter from Councilmember Marshall addressing Bettencourt’s resolution. Bettencourt noted there are five houses in the Beach Lot area that are operating as an illegal bed and breakfast. The public should have access to anyone who is operating these types of businesses. These B&B’s are advertised on the Internet. He said Councilmember Marshall has six cabinets full of information regarding these businesses. Bettencourt moved to support his resolution regarding illegal transient vacation units. Due to a lack of a second, the motion died.

Kailua Reservoir – Chair Ho announced the Office of Environmental Quality Control (OEQC) will consider the Kailua Reservoir issue on Wednesday, Queen Liliuokalani Children’s Center (QLCC), 1:30 p.m.

PUBLIC INPUT (Part II):

Community Announcements:

Sea Life Park – No representative was available.

Honolulu Community Action Program (HCAP) – McKenzie St. Lawrence stated the HCAP Community Food and Agricultural Office is located on the grounds of the Waimanalo Health Center. HCAP is new to Waimanalo. The program has been in O’ahu for the past 40 years. Their program helps low-income people; they help 2,000 families a year; help feed the homeless; participate in Weed & Seed, etc. If anyone has any ideas or wants to volunteer, please contact her at 259-7399.

Lei Day Queen – Albinio announced that his sister – Sharla Kuualohapumehana Kaeo, a Waimanalo resident, was recently crowned Lei Day Queen at Kapiolani Park. (A round of applause was given at this time).

Hui Malama O Ke Kai – Kathy Morris said Hui Malama O Ke Kai is new to the community, Their organization helps children, families and the community. The program is funded through two educational grants. She encouraged the community to visit their organization at 41-1537 Kalanianaole Highway, Suite 201B or contact them at 259-2602. (A round of applause was given at this time). Chair Ho welcomed Morris to Waimanalo.

CHAMP After School Care – Keoni Fraser stated CHAMP stands for Comprehensive Health, Academic, Mentoring Program. Their mission statement for this cultural sensitive youth development program is to provide health education, promotes physical activity, offers academic support, and exposes children to community enrichment opportunities designed to; foster healthy lifestyles, academic success and develop responsible individuals. Special attention focused on Native Hawaiian youth who are underachieving in school, and who are experiencing less than ideal health situations. The program is community based. He is trying to create awareness and gather input. For more information, he can be reached at 256-3056 or email at keokifraser@yahoo.com.

Concerns and comments followed:

1) Chair Ho suggested contacting the Waimanalo Public and School Library, the PCNC at Waimanalo and Pope Elementary Schools, and QLCC. The Board supports you.

2) Mabel Spencer was impressed with Fraser, a Waimanalo resident, coming back to the community and serving. She suggested contacting Al Lewis of Friends of Waimanalo and Paul Richard of Hawaiian Home Lands. Spencer offered her help. She encouraged the community to give (financially).

(A round of applause was given at this time).

Windward Ahupua’a Alliance (WAA) – Shannon Wood stated WAA has started a campaign to address illegal dumping. Over 700.000 pounds of illegal dumping have been collected at Kapaa Quarry Road. A cleanup for Waimanalo is scheduled for October 28.

Chair Ho asked if WAA has formed a committee. Wood answered no, but she would be willing to organize it. Chair Ho then asked if there are any volunteers on the Board willing to sit on the committee. Buck volunteered.

(Albinio departed at this time).

OTHER GROUPS/ORGANIZATIONS:

Oceanic Institute – No report or representative was available.

U.S. Marines – Lt. Colonel Patricia Johnson reported: 1) Roughly 100 Marines returned from Afghanistan today. The remainder will return later this month. 2) MCBH participated in many Hawai’i Chamber of Commerce Military Appreciation Month events. 3) The next Windward Civilian-Military Council meeting will be held on May 16, Officers Club, 11:30 a.m. 4) RIMPAC exercises will be held in mid-June to mid-July. She will provide more detailed information at next month’s meeting.

Chair Ho asked if a Waimanalo resident sits on the Windward Civilian-Military Council. Lt. Col. Johnson answered no.

Bellows – Capt. David Talafuse stated.with the busy summer season approaching, Bellows has job opportunities available. For more information, visit www.bellowsafs.com or call 259-4128.

Akeo, Bettencourt and Mabel Spencer had concerns regarding helicopters flying over the community at night and the noise it’s creating. Capt. Talafuse will follow-up.

Restoration Advisory Board (RAB) - Bellows Air Force Station – No report or representative was available.

Hawai’i Job Corps – No report or representative was available.

Waimanalo Health Center – Chuck Braden reported the Waimanalo Health Center is doing clinic redesign. It’s a process that utilizes all available resources (i.e. manpower, equipment, technology, etc.) to create the most efficient visit for the patient (without having to change the building). They include minimal stops for the patient; decrease in waiting time; and increase in staff efficiency. The goals are to decrease patient visit time; increase provider productivity; and increase patient satisfactory. Redesign Team include Melissa Ahlo (Team Leader), Dr. Hatakeyama, Chuck Braden, Anita Nakamura, Linda Lani, Kevin Throckmorton, and Dave Kula.

In response to a resident, Braden stated when you call the Waimanalo Health Center to make an appointment you will know the name of your physician. The resident refuted the statement as she was told otherwise. Braden said he would need specific information to follow-up.

ELECTED OFFICIALS:

Senator Fred Hemmings – Senator Hemmings circulated his monthly report and highlighted the following: 1) This year’s Legislative session was productive and started addressing problems that have for too long been neglected. There is $10 million for the Waimanalo Wastewater Treatment Plant and $5 million for the Kailua High School second access road. 2) He hopes the Board looks at the bigger picture of B&B’s. It’s a problem in Kailua. He will address it during next year’s session. 3) It’s a pleasure serving the community.

Concerns and comments followed:

1) Chair Ho thanked Senator Hemmings and Representative Waters for their efforts in getting funding for the sewage treatment plant. Jamila thanked the Senator and Representative for their efforts in getting funding for the access road.

2) Bettencourt had concerns about HB 1719, relating to the Salary Commission approving a raise for the Legislators. The last raise was only two years ago. Senator Hemmings noted he voted against the bill.

Governor’s Representative – No report or representative was available.

Councilmember Barbara Marshall – Ikaika Anderson circulated Councilmember Marshall’s monthly report and reported: 1) Councilmember Marshall sends her regrets. 2) The next series of “3 Talk” sessions will be held on June 20, 7:00 p.m., in Kaneohe; July 31, 7:00 p.m., in Kailua; and in August, date to determined, in Waimanalo.

Concerns and comments followed:

1) A resident asked the status of a drivers’ license bureau on the Windward side. Anderson will follow-up.

2) Bettencourt inquired if there are any plans to increase enforcement of Ohana dwellings. Anderson asked Bettencourt to put the question in writing.

Representative Tommy Waters – Representative Waters circulated his monthly report and highlighted the following: 1) Waimanalo received close to $20 million in projects this Legislative session (i.e. Waimanalo Wastewater Treatment Plant, Kailua High School access road, Pope Elementary School, etc). He thanked the community for writing letters, sending emails and making telephone calls. 2) Speeding has been a concern in the community. HB 862 was passed this session which makes excessive speeding a petty misdemeanor. Penalties include hefty fines, license suspension and community service. 3) As Chair of the Higher Education Committee, he was able to get money for Windward Community College. 4) If anyone has any questions, please contact his office at 586-9450. 5) He will help CHAMPS to get funding. (A round of applause was given at this time).

A resident asked that the name of Kailua Reservoir be changed since it is located in Waimanalo. Representative Waters said he would introduce a resolution at next year’s session.

Congressman Ed Case – Steve Cayetano circulated Congressman Case’s monthly newsletter and reported that a comprehensive bill approved by the U.S. House provides long-overdue tightening of security at the nation’s ports and authorizes $7.4 billion in federal funding. The bill is especially vital to Hawai’i.

EDUCATION:

Blanche Pope Elementary – No report or representative was available.

OTHER GROUPS/ORGANIZATIONS

Waimanalo Hawaiian Homestead Association – Paul Richards stated: 1) Contrary to belief, WHHA does not have a lot of money. They will meet with Fraser. 2) WHHA has a halau and the community can use it. The costs is $1,000, but $250 will be returned back to the user. The halau will be available 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. 3) They held a Easter Egg Hunt and breakfast, which was free to the community.