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MCCULLY / MOILIILI NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2006

KING WILLIAM LUNALILO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Lockwood called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. with a quorum of 10 members present.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Elaine Akau (left from 9:36 to 9:38 p.m.), Scott Cheever (arrived at 7:09 p.m.), Linda Dela Cruz, Albert Furuto (left from 9:05 to 9:20 p.m.), Gordon Furuto (arrived at 7:04 p.m.), Les Hata (arrived at 7:45 p.m.), Serena Kyi-Yim, Betty Lou Larson, Ron Lockwood, Deepak Neupane (departed at 9:02 p.m.), Shaunna Tabor, Eliza Talbot (departed at 9:35 p.m.), Michael Taleff, Stephanie Visaya Bose (arrived at 7:56 p.m. and departed at 9:10 p.m.).

MEMBERS ABSENT: Rodney Evans, Clifton H. Takamura (excused).

GUESTS: Firefighter S. Michew, Capt. C. Vause, Jr. (Honolulu Fire Department); Sgt. A. Lee, Officer Z. Ondayog (Honolulu Police Department – District 1); Lt. A. Ahlo, Officer C. Hytry, Sgt. M. Nakada, Det. Walsh (Honolulu Police Department – District 7); Jan Yokota (University of Hawaii – Director of Capital Improvements); Danny Agsalog (Mayor's representative – Senior Advisor, City Department of Community Services); Duane Okamoto (Governor's representative – State Department of Agriculture); Keith Ishinaga (Board of Water Supply); Pat Lee (Honolulu High Capacity Transit Corridor Project Public Involvement Team); Councilmember Ann Kobayashi; Mandie Pearson (Senator Fukunaga's Office staff); Eric L. La'a (Representative Nishimoto's Office staff); Alexandra Edrich (Ala Wai K-9 Association); Mark Defley (Ala Wai Manor); Raymond A. Lalosin, Carl Novak, Lillian Novak (McCully Citizens' Patrol); Hao Nguyen (University of Hawaii student); Janet Inamine, Shirley Koczan, Daisy Murai, Dallas Rengiil, Jeff Roberts, Dennis Wakashige; Rachel M. Glanstein (Neighborhood Commission Office staff).

PUBLIC SAFETY INPUT/COMMUNITY INPUT:

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – Capt. C. Vause, Jr. reported the following:

1)       Statistics for April – There were a total of 106 alarms. There were 11 structure and 2 rubbish fires; there were 79 medical, 1 search/rescue and 13 miscellaneous emergencies (which included hazardous conditions, false alarms, assisting patients, etc.). There were no major incidents.

2)       Fire Safety Tip – Prepare a fire escape plan. Map out escape routes. Designate a location outside of the house where everyone can meet. Know where the closest phone is located to call 911.

Gordon Furuto arrived at 7:04 p.m., making 11 members present.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – District 1 – Kaheka to Hauoli Street – Sgt. A. Lee circulated a report and noted that mango theft has become a problem. He requested that people leave their name when reporting crimes, or else the criminals may not be prosecuted. The report contained the March statistics given last month.

Kyi-Yim asked what the police do with juveniles. Sgt. Lee replied that they are arrested just like adults.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – District 7 – East Honolulu – Lt. A. Ahlo distributed a handout and announced that the new commander for District 7 is Maj. Mark Nakagawa. The handout contained a map of the beats, Narcotics/Vice Division statistics, tips on safely using the Internet, and the following statistics (the format is April/March): Beat 753 (bounded by Punahou Street, the H-1 Freeway, University Avenue, and King Street) – 1/2 burglaries, 3/7 thefts, 4/5 unauthorized entries into motor vehicles (UEMVs); Beat 754 (bounded by Hauoli Street, King Street, University Avenue, and the Ala Wai Canal) – 7/3 burglaries, 7/5 thefts, 11/1 UEMVs; Beat 755 (bounded by University Avenue, the H-1 Freeway, the Manoa-Palolo Drainage Canal, and the Ala Wai Canal) – 2/6 burglaries, 10/5 thefts, 4/6 UEMVs.

University of Hawaii (UH) Representative – Jan Yokota circulated a Summer at Manoa newsletter and provided the following information:

1)       The semester is almost finished; commencement takes place on May 14, 2006. Traffic problems should ease a little after commencement. Summer session will begin soon.

2)       The negotiations with UH and the U.S. Navy regarding the University Affiliated Research Center (UARC) continue. The matter won't go to the Board of Regents until July at the earliest.

3)       UH is seeking a new chancellor, but Yokota didn't have further details.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1)       Tabor gave her congratulations to UH for their Special Needs Conference about special education children.

2)       Chair Lockwood requested the status of the Frear Hall re-development. Yokota answered that UH has submitted a rezoning request to the City, and from there the matter will go to the City Council's Zoning Committee on July 5. She will update the Board on the status before then.

Scott Cheever arrived at 7:09 p.m., making 12 members present.

Mayor’s Representative – Danny Agsalog distributed the April Mayor's newsletter and emphasized the following:

1)       He expressed his appreciation to Councilmember Kobayashi, Senators Fukunaga and Taniguchi, and Representatives Caldwell, Nishimoto and Saiki for holding the April 18 town meeting about the flooding.

2)       The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has declared that this area was a disaster area from February 20 to April 2, so they will be providing 2% rehabilitation loans.

3)       On March 31, 2006, Kalakaua Avenue was temporarily closed between South King Street and Kapiolani Boulevard because heavy flooding and debris rendered the roadway impassable. Regular traffic was diverted onto the side streets to facilitate the safe and efficient movement of traffic, emergency vehicles, and area residents seeking evacuation. This was a necessary measure taken in an emergency situation. Kalakaua Avenue was reopened within a few hours when the rain stopped and the flooding subsided.

4)       Fern Street between Hauoli Street and Kalakaua Avenue was inspected for dust and no further washing down of the street is needed at this time.

5)       The City Department of Facility Maintenance's (DFM) Road Maintenance Division has been removing debris, filling potholes, cleaning clogged drain lines and drainage ways, repairing damages to the City-owned facilities and infrastructure on a continuous basis both during and after the storms throughout the entire island of Oahu and will continue to do so.

6)       The Oahu Civil Defense Agency (OCDA) is working on the emergency warning siren in Ala Wai Park, which hasn't worked for the past three months.

7)       The City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) is currently assessing the drainage complaints in the McCully area generated by the recent storms. The Waikiki sewer problem is the number one priority – a plan for a temporary bypass is underway. Some of the issues may require budgeting of future Capital Improvement Project (CIP) funds for the planning effort, and if needed, design and construction funds to implement mitigation improvements. In the meantime, the City welcomes any input from the Board.

8)       The City Department of Environmental Services (ENV) is considering using an environmentally friendly method to clean the Ala Wai canal called phytoremediation, which uses akulikuli plants and bacterial additives to reduce contaminants in the sediment layer in the canal. There are no further details yet.

9)       Tanker trucks could not be used to haul the sewage from Waikiki during the spill, because the normal daily flow there is 540,000 gallons per hour. To keep up with this flow, 108 tanker trucks would be required. The City has less than 20 trucks, and the private sector combined with the City may match this amount. Therefore, it would have been impossible to truck this amount of flow. Furthermore, the closest discharge points would have been located on Kapiolani and Ala Moana Boulevards; both streets would have to have been closed to accommodate the trucks to expedite turn-around time.

10)   Homelessness is a complex issue, and the City is trying to work with State to offer solutions. Many of the beneficial programs rest within the capability of the State.

11)   The fire hydrant at Makaloa/Kalakaua Avenue should have been replaced before this meeting. However, the last time that Raymond A. Lalosin checked, there was a not-in-service sign on the hydrant.

12)   Regarding the key to lock the restroom gates of the McCully Recreation Center, Toni Robinson, with the City Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), contacted Raymond A. Lalosin, with the McCully Citizens' Patrol, to discuss issuing a key for the restroom gates. HPD also has a key to lock the restrooms.

13)   The Moiliili-McCully area has not received gray or blue bins because it's planned to service the area with semi-automated collection (the bins are moved manually between curbside and collection truck) due to residential density. Areas with narrow lanes, steep grades and one-way streets will also be serviced with semi-automated collection. Unfortunately, specific dates when this program will start are not yet available.

14)   Although there are rumors that another area wants to accept Oahu's waste and it can be transported there at less cost to the City, the City is aware that local residents there are objecting to the proposal. In addition, revenues generated by tip fees are used to offset costs for residential refuse collection.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1)       Shirley Koczan inquired as to who will remove the shopping carts from the Ala Wai canal. Agsalog replied that the State Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) handles the cleaning the canal.

2)       Tabor asked if any soil samples from the Ala Wai Elementary School area have been studied. Chair Lockwood clarified that the issue is one for the Governor's representative.

3)       Cheever pointed out that there was a substantial amount of rainwater runoff that added to the Waikiki sewage spill; he inquired if the City can subtract the runoff out to calculate the real spill, in the interest of public relations (so that it's not looked at as five times the amount in the Exxon spill). Agsalog will follow up.

4)       Larson asked if the City has any more plans for major closures of parks, like Ala Moana. She requested there be a planning process between the City and community groups, so that the displaced homeless have somewhere to go (they have to go somewhere). Agsalog explained that the City wants to give the local parks back to the entire community, instead of being just for a select few. There may be park closures on the Leeward side. Agsalog conveyed the Mayor's compassion for the homeless. He stated that the Governor arranged for a warehouse in Kakaako to be available for the homeless, but noted that some homeless people don't want to live there or be helped. Talbot inquired about the City coordination with the State in opening and operating the Kakaako warehouse; she requested the Mayor's plan for assistance. Agsalog responded that the City Council and City administration are very compassionate to the homeless and give funds to the Institute for Homeless Services (IHS) and other shelters in Waianae. The City sponsors the Work Hawaii program, which trains people for employment. Agsalog reiterated that some homeless people don't want the help that's offered. Neupane conveyed that some homeless people have real problems, and encouraged the City and the State to work together on solutions. He reflected that in the past 10 years, homelessness has worsened. Agsalog assented that something must be done, but added that some homeless have lived at Ala Moana park for over 10 years don't want to change their way of life. He imparted that the City has no health department and the homeless issue is very complex.

5)       Akau inquired if the City, when issuing building permits, could require developers to provide affordable housing. Agsalog indicated that the City may have that type of requirement, but he will follow up on the specifics. The standards may be set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

6)       Tabor asked if the City (or the State) has done any statistical studies on how many homeless people refuse assistance. Agsalog referenced an unofficial anecdotal study of Fort Street in which 118 people admitted their substance abuse addictions. Tabor urged the City and the State to look at possible rehabilitation services for homeless drug users, since incarceration doesn't seem to work. She revealed that the Salvation Army's rehabilitation program cost $2,500, which most homeless people can't afford. Agsalog commented that, by federal law, the City and the State can't force anyone into rehabilitation.

Les Hata arrived at 7:45 p.m., making 13 members present.

7)       Kyi-Yim commended the City for the new dedicated turn signal from Punahou Street onto King Street.

8)       G. Furuto asked about the number of homeless and how much money is put aside for them. Agsalog answered that the State takes care of the numbers.

9)       Carl Novak inquired how a homeless person qualifies for affordable housing. Agsalog reiterated that the City doesn't provide affordable housing, but that they do offer Section 8 rental assistance. However, the waiting list is very long. There are City agencies that will help them to get jobs.

10)   Carl Novak related that there are many bad potholes on Young Street, from Isenberg Street to Piikoi Street.

11)   A resident spoke of "cooperativos", which is a partnership between the City and the homeless to make the homeless responsible for their areas. She noted that many homeless people migrate here for the warmth and free meals. Agsalog acknowledged that they may drain finances, but that everyone is welcome here.

Stephanie Visaya Bose arrived at 7:56 p.m., making 14 members present.

Governor’s Representative – Duane Okamoto circulated a news release on the temporary shelter in Kakaako and the Governor's Update, and highlighted the following:

1)       The mosquito concerns have been relayed to both the State Department of Health (DOH) and DLNR.

2)       The request for soil testing around the Ala Wai Elementary School has been conveyed to DOH.

3)       Governor Lingle has established a temporary emergency housing facility in a vacant building in Kakaako near Pier 1. The facility can accommodate up to 200 people; it's intent is transition. The Housing and Community Development Corporation of Hawaii (HCDCH) has contracted with the Affordable Housing and Homeless Alliance (AHHA), Hawaii Helping the Hungry Have Hope (H5), and the Waikiki Health Center (WHC) to provide various social services as well as to ensure security. Gov. Lingle has been working on this matter for over on year, trying to address economic issues and give some tax relief.

4)       Gov. Lingle is aware of the effect of the floods on residents in the area.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1)       Kyi-Yim asked how temporary the Kakaako shelter is. Okamoto replied that there's no timeframe yet. Kyi-Yim urged that the program to not just get the homeless jobs, but teach them how to keep the jobs. She would prefer that the program teach people to be self-sufficient. Okamoto conceded that it will be a challenge, especially teaching people how to save money. However, he noted that some people have no intentions of ever working and that substance abusers need more help to maintain jobs and save money. There were two studies done (one in the early 1990's and an update at the end of the 1990's) that qualified the number of people who were one paycheck away from being homeless and looked at trying to establish the different categories of homeless; the studies were possibly done by SMS Research.

2)       Neupane inquired if the State has a strategy to deal with homelessness; Okamoto answered that the strategy is evolving, and the State is trying to involve more partners.

3)       G. Furuto encouraged the City and the State to work together on homelessness solutions; he expressed his feeling that there should be a State or City agency to coordinate these activities. Okamoto responded that the City and the State work together sometimes and they do try to communicate.

4)       Lillian Novak inquired how long the Kakaako facility would be open to the homeless. Okamoto noted that its use would not be indefinite, since the idea is to help the homeless and then rotate them out of the facility. L. Novak asked what's being spent on this facility and what’s planned for the future. Okamoto will follow up.

5)       Carl Novak suggested that the $30 million surplus from the success of the HI-5 recycling program should go back to the people, and maybe should be given to the homeless. Okamoto explained that, when a special fund is set up, the money is dedicated for a specific purpose (to run the recycling program) and may only be used for that purpose. One of the goals is to increase the convenience of recycling. C. Novak asked why they don't weigh the recycling materials anymore; Okamoto answered that, depending on the amount recycled, they will weigh items; he'll follow up.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Keith Ishinaga distributed information relating to the proposed rate increases and imparted the following information:

1)       There were no main breaks in April.

2)       BWS is proposing a system-wide rate increase of 13%, which represents a $3.23 increase in the average residential customer's monthly charge. This means the water rate will increase from $1.77 to $2.00 for 1,000 gallons of water. A public hearing will be held on Monday, May 15, at 2 p.m. or thereafter, in the Board Room of the Public Service Building on 630 South Beretania Street. Persons wishing to speak are requested to register by 1 p.m. with Lorraine Lee by fax (550-5506) or by phone (748-5064), by providing your name, phone number, and subject matter of testimony. Testimony is limited to three minutes and shall be presented by the registered speaker only. Call 748-5064 with any questions.

The written report included the following announcements: (a) Congratulations to the winners of the BWS Water Conservation Week Poster Contest! First, second and third place winners received $100, $75 and $50 U.S. Savings Bonds, respectively. The winning entries will be displayed in the Lane Gallery at Honolulu Hale from April 25 through May 5, and at Pearlridge Uptown from May 8 to May 18. (b) The average family of four uses approximately 13,000 gallons of water per month.

Honolulu High Capacity Transit Corridor Project (HHCTCP) Update – Pat Lee, part of the HHCTCP Public Involvement Team, circulated the latest newsletter and presented the following:

1)       There are two corridors planned for this area, one on South King Street and one on Kapiolani Boulevard, from the Hawaii Convention Center to Varsity Place.

2)       The four alternatives being considered in the Alternatives Analysis right now are: (a) Alternative 1 – the No Build alternative; (b) Alternative 2 – the Transportation System Management (TSM) alternative – new transit center locations were identified and an enhanced bus route network with increased bus service is planned for this alternative; (c) Alternative 3 – the Managed Lane alternative – now two options, one with traffic flowing in both directions all day and the other with both lanes reversible depending on the time of day; and (d) Alternative 4 – the Fixed Guideway alternative – a fixed rail / elevated system.

3)       In the Ala Moana/McCully/Moiliili area, four to six stations will be selected from these choices: (a) Kona Street & Keeaumoku Street; (b) Hawaii Convention Center; (c) Kapiolani Boulevard & McCully Street; (d) University Avenue & Date Street; (e) University Avenue & South King Street; (f) South King Street & Kalakaua Avenue; (g) South King Street & McCully Street; (h) South King Street & Hausten Street; and (i) UH lower campus. Only some of these will be in the Locally Preferred Alternative ultimately selected.

4)       He would like to give a full presentation to the Board soon and noted that the Public Involvement Team will also present to community groups if requested.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1)       Cheever heard that the fixed rail is not a good choice for the City, and that an elevated toll road could pay for itself quickly and reduce property/land costs (since it's built upon existing roadways); he asked what position the Public Involvement Team was taking on these points. Lee responded that the team is not taking a position and that all alternatives are being equally weighed. When the study is done, they will present the Locally Preferred Alternative to Council. The cost of ridership will be known by mid-summer.

2)       Janet Inamine requested a clarification of how the stations will work. Lee replied that they are still working on the stations, and that the locations are just proposals now, and can and will be changed with community input (some stations have already been adjusted in Waikiki due to community input).

3)       A. Furuto asked Lee what the Neighborhood Commission is doing. Lee explained that he resigned. A. Furuto followed by asking the reason for his resignation. Chair Lockwood ruled A. Furuto out of order for discussing something not pending or on the agenda.

4)       Daisy Murai inquired about how far apart these stations will be; she asked that if there will be enough room for stations on University Avenue. She requested that the transit system be made so that people who have trouble walking can still use it. Lee noted that the American Disabilities Act (ADA) must be followed completely; he added that they want as much input as possible on these stations and alternatives.

Elected Officials –

Councilmember Ann Kobayashi: Councilmember Kobayashi distributed the report and emphasized the following:

1)       Attached to her report was a form for property tax relief for those affected by the flooding.

2)       The City's final budget should be voted on June 7. The Council had hoped to lower the tax rate, but found that certain wastewater and sewer projects are necessary.

3)       Council is considering action to have the Makiki Stream dredged or cleaned on a regular basis; she noted that everyone shouldn't always depend on Chair Lockwood to organize and lead cleaning crews.

4)       The City is negotiating with the State Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) for the Stadium Bowl-O-Drome property to add to Stadium Park, which Council prefers to it being a commercial site.

5)       Council has passed an ordinance to assist a private company that is rehabilitating derelict buses to provide housing for homeless.

Questions, comments and concerns followed:

1)       Hata inquired about the elevation of the Makiki streambed. Councilmember Kobayashi answered that the elevation increased by 1.7 feet (all silt) from December 2005 to March 2006.

2)       Visaya Bose asked if an individual can file a claim with the City for car damage caused by potholes. Councilmember Kobayashi affirmed this.

3)       Cheever suggested giving the homeless who will be living in the rehabilitated buses the opportunity to get their Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL). Many expressed approval of the idea.

4)       A. Furuto shared his approval that the Council wants to give the Stadium Bowl-O-Drome property to the community. He accused the Board of not being pro-active enough on this matter. Councilmember Kobayashi explained that the process is still in the preliminary stage and she will request Board support when it's needed. Chair Lockwood added that the Board passed a resolution to that effect in 1999, but noted that another one could be passed. Larson inquired as to what kind of park the Council was considering for the Stadium Bowl-O-Drome property. Councilmember Kobayashi responded that the McCully Recreation Center is always closed because of pool repair, so the Council was considering putting a pool in the Bowl-O-Drome property; it's possible that the City could partner with the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) to install the pool, since the YMCA can do it better for less money.

5)       Lillian Novak asked when this summer the McCully Recreation Center will be open and if there will be a Summer Fun program; she clarified that most of the community doesn't care about the pool at the McCully Recreation Center – they just want the center open. Councilmember Kobayashi replied that she doesn't know when the center will be open to the public and that there will probably be no Summer Fun program there. L. Novak stated that it costs $600 for one child to attend the Boys and Girls Club for their Summer Fun program. Councilmember Kobayashi related that Central Union Church has a program, but it's full; programs may also be offered by the YMCA, the Makiki Christian Church, and Ala Wai park.

6)       Chair Lockwood expressed his appreciation of Councilmember Kobayashi's questioning of the City over the maintenance of the streams.

Senator Carol Fukunaga: Mandie Pearson circulated the report.

Senator Brian Taniguchi, Representatives Kirk Caldwell, Scott Nishimoto and Scott Saiki: Eric L. La'a distributed the reports.

Chair Lockwood noted that the State Senators and Representatives are in the final day of the legislative session; he suggested anyone with any questions/comments to email or call him.

FILLING OF VACANCIES: Chair Lockwood announced the single vacancy in Sub-district 2. No interested candidates came forward.

RESIDENTS’ CONCERNS:

1)       A. Furuto expressed concern about the running of this Board. He mentioned that the Board had a great opportunity to reach out to the community with a survey of concerns, but it was not acted on. A. Furuto conveyed his disappointment and his resolve to not sit idly by and watch it happen. He placed the blame on Chair Lockwood, declaring that he has a record of not only failing to supply a newsletter but of stopping a newsletter A. Furuto volunteered to put out. He communicated his intent to prevent anyone from bullying the community. A. Furuto volunteered to chair the next newsletter committee. Akau questioned A. Furuto's claims, noting that if he's so concerned about work not getting done, then why does he talk so much.

2)       Visaya Bose mentioned that Kaapakea Lane and Kuilei Street are flooded and have severe drainage problems, but are both privately owned, so the City has not drained them.

3)       Alexandra Edrich commented that bulky items don't seem to get picked up from Kamoku Street, near the Date Street park.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chair Lockwood and others took this opportunity to call attention to a few events happening soon in the community before all attendees departed –

1)       The Prince Kuhio School Culture Fair will take place during the daytime on Friday, May 26.

2)       There were tickets available at the back table for the Washington Middle School Ohana Hawaiian Dinner on Friday, May 19, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The tickets cost $4.50; call 973-0177 for more tickets. Pat Hamamoto, from the State Department of Education (DOE), and Gov. Lingle are scheduled to appear.

3)       There will be a pet expo over Mother's Day weekend at the Blaisdell. Admission is free; pets are welcome.

4)       Chair Lockwood requested that everyone let him know about any community events each month, so that he can put them all in the agenda, informing the community as announcements.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Lock Box – Public Storage Letter – Chair Lockwood circulated draft copies of a letter to Robert Soudan, of BRB Development Company, listing the questions and concerns, brought up by the Ala Wai Manor Association Board of Directors and community members at the last Board meeting, over the proposed new public storage building at the Kapiolani Boulevard / McCully Street intersection. Discussion ensued:

1)       A. Furuto asked what the process is for complaints. Chair Lockwood explained that this is not a letter of complaint, and indicated that the Board of Directors of the Ala Wai Manor requested that the Board assist them in getting more information, in addition to the fact that community members expressed concern over the proposed development. A. Furuto repeatedly claimed that the letter was one of complaint, even though Chair Lockwood clearly detailed the intent of the letter. A. Furuto questioned numerous times if the Board has the right to file a complaint and Chair Lockwood reiterated that the letter was not a complaint; Chair Lockwood added that a complaint may be filed by the Board as it relates to ingress/egress of the property. A. Furuto inquired if complaints could be preemptive; Chair Lockwood replied that there is no such thing as a preemptive complaint. A. Furuto then asked if the letter was redundant, since the Ala Wai Manor Board of Directors has already sent a letter listing their questions and concerns. Chair Lockwood responded that redundancy is possible, but that the Ala Wai Manor Board represents their owners, and the McCully-Moiliili Neighborhood Board represents 20,000 people living in the area.

2)       Neupane inquired where the company is in the building, planning or permitting processes. Chair Lockwood answered that one of the goals of the Board's letter is to find that out.

3)       Cheever asked if the legislators will endorse the letter of concerns about the proposed public storage building. Chair Lockwood pointed out that they will receive carbon copies of the letter when it's sent out.

4)       G. Furuto inquired if the Board has the authority to send the letter; Chair Lockwood responded that the issue is not one located inside the building (which the Manoa Neighborhood Board No. 7 had trouble with), but one outside, which is something the Board can act upon.

5)       Shirley Koczan asked if there were any restrictions on how many storage facilities can be built in one area. Chair Lockwood replied that he wasn't sure, but didn't think so.

Unanimous consent was used to send the letter to BRB Development relaying questions and concerns about the proposed new storage facility at the intersection of Kapiolani Boulevard and McCully Street.

HPD Legislation Making Crossover – Chair Lockwood noted that House Bill 2454 (HB 2454) House Draft 1 (HD1), relating to legislative vacancies, was vetoed.

Homeless / Affordable Housing Legislation Making Crossover – Larson provided the following updates:

1)       Both Senate Bill 2958 (SB 2958) and HB 2176, relating to affordable housing, passed final reading by both the Senate and the House and were transmitted to the Governor. They were amended though, leaving only $5 million left for homeless services and repair.

2)       HB 2066 HD2, relating to homelessness and temporary shelters, failed to come out of committee.

3)       SB 2687, relating to vagrancy, was not transmitted to the Governor.

4)       Charter Amendment Proposal No. 91, to set aside one-half percent of real property tax revenues for land and natural resources protection and one-half percent for affordable housing, will be on the ballot. The Board's resolution supporting the idea helped greatly in its being accepted; thanks were given to Takamura and Chair Lockwood for their efforts.

Neupane departed at 9:02 p.m., leaving 13 members present.

Chair Lockwood mentioned the handouts he distributed listing the status of the Charter Amendment Proposals and giving the background of the City Charter and the Charter Commission.

Education Legislation Making Crossover – Tabor indicated that she would have a full report next month.

A. Furuto departed at 9:05 p.m., leaving 12 members present.

Bus Stop Reconfiguration Update – Chair Lockwood has received no response to his emails requesting updates.

Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) Update – Chair Lockwood thanked Janet Inamine for being his alternate to OMPO meetings, and for attending. Inamine reported that at the March OMPO Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting, businesses, organizations and Neighborhood Boards were asked to present their concerns. She requested that the Board closely investigate the project, especially the elevated rail system.

Ala Wai Neighborhood Park Renovation Update – Chair Lockwood detailed that the Ala Wai Community Park is part on the McCully end, and the Ala Wai Neighborhood Park is the part on the University end. Eight months ago, construction began on the volleyball and basketball courts, and is now almost finished. The crews just need to complete the landscaping, installation of some lights, work on the courts, drinking fountains, and then an inspection must be done. He thanked Councilmember Kobayashi for her effort on this undertaking.

Dog Park Update – Tabor reported that she received official approval from DPR to have the City build a dog park at the proposed location by the Ala Wai Elementary School.

Visaya Bose departed at 9:10 p.m., leaving 11 members present.

Chair Lockwood added that there will now be a sewer project done at the proposed dog park location, which will include the installation of a 60-inch pipeline from the confluence of the Manoa and Palolo Streams in the Ala Wai canal, go under the canal and hook up with the Waikiki pumping station. The 60-inch pipes will be stored on the softball outfield while digging and tunneling take place in the dog park area. There are no drawings or cost estimates available yet. Construction is set to begin in June 2006 and end in December 2006. The bike path will be moved during construction. He's requested them to restore the baseball field, level out the dog park area, put up a fence between the dog park area and the school, improve the irrigation there, and restore the bike path. Chair Lockwood has asked that the DDC give a presentation on the project to the Board as soon as possible.

Sub-district Boundary Update – Chair Lockwood related that the process began 22 years ago. He just received a letter stating that the request to change boundaries will go to the Neighborhood Commission for action, with no date given. If the Neighborhood Commission approves the request, then public hearings will begin in the neighborhood.

NEW BUSINESS:

Board Member Survey – Chair Lockwood circulated copies of the survey and read the questions. A neighbor asked that this survey be given to the Board members. Chair Lockwood requested answers to be emailed or mailed to the Neighborhood Assistant or himself by May 23; he would like to present the answers at the June meeting.

Larson inquired about the purpose of the survey and asked what would be done with the results. Chair Lockwood responded that his first thought was that officer elections are coming up for the Board; the results may be published in next month's agenda, if the Board wants it.

Board Recess in June or July – Chair Lockwood asked for the other members' opinions on a possible Board recess. G. Furuto explained his preference to recess in July, since many people may have plans for July 4. Kyi-Yim moved, and G. Furuto seconded, to recess in July, which was adopted unanimously, 11-0-0.

Resolution to Support Dredging and Cleaning of Makiki Stream (attached) – Chair Lockwood read it aloud.

A. Furuto returned at 9:20 p.m., making 12 members present.

Larson moved, and Tabor seconded, to adopt the resolution to support the dredging and cleaning of Makiki Stream, which was adopted unanimously, 12-0-0.

Resolution – Assessment and Report of Property Damage Due to Flooding (attached as amended) – Discussion ensued:

1)       G. Furuto may not condone this action if property from those living next to streams could be taken away.

2)       Larson inquired if this action was within the purview of the Oahu Civil Defense Agency (OCDA). Raymond A. Lalosin, an OCDA employee, replied in the affirmative, and mentioned that the OCDA may already be trying to do some of what is provided for in the resolution; he suggested calling the office. Chair Lockwood noted that people often don't report damage (on their own initiative) to government agencies.

3)       Kyi-Yim proposed adding the Hawaii State Civil Defense, DLNR and Governor Lingle to the distribution list.

4)       A. Furuto inquired if this resolution is trying to push the City to the forefront; Chair Lockwood responded that it's a good question, and someone has to take the lead.

5)       Cheever mentioned that Makiki Stream has Hawaiian stonework along some of its sides and inquired if it will be protected or rebuilt. Chair Lockwood commented that the Hawaiian walls stay better than anything else, and hopefully many of the walls are still there.

6)       A. Furuto asked Raymond A. Lalosin and Councilmember Kobayashi if this resolution would be helpful. Lalosin and Councilmember Kobayashi affirmed this, and Councilmember Kobayashi suggested also sending a copy of the resolution to the Army Corps of Engineers.

Unanimous consent was used to amend the resolution by: (a) in the fourth paragraph, striking out "City Council's Committee on Public Works" and insert "City Council"; and (b) in the last paragraph, adding the Hawaii State Civil Defense, the State Department of Land and Natural Resources, the Army Corps of Engineers, and Governor Linda Lingle to the distribution list.

Unanimous consent was used to adopt the resolution for the assessment and report of property damage due to flooding, as amended.

Drugs (Ice) – A. Furuto expressed his desire to increase the community's awareness of the "ice" problem. The drug has more of a social impact than most other drugs, and sometimes seems to destroy humanity and compassion in its users. He implied that the government agencies should be funding more drug education. Chair Lockwood suggested that he write a resolution for the Board to consider.

Talbot departed at 9:35 p.m., leaving 11 members present. Akau left at 9:36 p.m., leaving 10 members present.

Kyi-Yim moved, and Cheever seconded, to extend the meeting to 10 p.m., which was adopted 9-1-0 (Aye: Cheever, Dela Cruz, A. Furuto, G. Furuto, Hata, Kyi-Yim, Larson, Lockwood, Taleff; No: Tabor).

Akau returned at 9:38 p.m., making 11 members present.

APPROVAL OF THE JANUARY 5, FEBRUARY 2, MARCH 2 AND APRIL 6, 2006 MINUTES: The January 5, February 2 and March 2, 2006 minutes were deferred until next month, since no one had copies.

Tabor moved, and Taleff seconded, to approve the April minutes as circulated, which was adopted unanimously, 11-0-0.

TREASURER'S REPORT: Treasurer Kyi-Yim reported that the Operating Account incurred expenses of $163.07, leaving a balance of $259.58, and the Publicity and Refreshment Accounts incurred no expenses, leaving balances of $2,539.00 and $120.00.

Kyi-Yim moved, and Cheever seconded, to have refreshments at the June meeting, at a cost not to exceed $120.00, which was adopted 10-1-0 (Aye: Akau, Cheever, Dela Cruz, A. Furuto, G. Furuto, Kyi-Yim, Larson, Lockwood, Tabor, Taleff; No: Hata).

Chair Lockwood requested that all agenda items and resolutions be submitted to him by May 18.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 9:44 p.m.

Submitted by: Rachel M. Glanstein, Neighborhood Assistant