When

August 25, 2025

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Where

McCully District Park
831 Pumehana Street, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, 96826

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MCCULLY – MŌ‘ILI‘ILI NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 8

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2025 AT 6:00 P.M.
MCCULLY DISTRICT PARK CLASSROOM 1 (GROUND FLOOR)
831 PUMEHANA STREET, HONOLULU, HI 96826
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=mdbb0aca8ac7efed2fb4afeebdf81533b
Meeting Number / Access Code: 2495 689 2816
Password: NB08 (6208 from phones and video systems)
Join by Phone: +1-408-418-9388 (United States Toll)

View Reports and Presentations: http://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1tT9B36j02pFGAEYO6I2BzQiNKI9CRiKk
Board Meeting Recordings: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfqRwVpRroollU7X5HV_cLUq_uVAtoJCI

RULES OF PARTICIPATION: Anyone wishing to speak, please raise your hand. After recognition, address your comments to the Chair. Comments must relate to the current agenda item. If participating online, please mute yourself when not speaking and use the “raise hand” feature in the participants panel if you want to speak. Remember to unclick, or lower, your hand afterwards. By board rules, audience and board members can have up to 2 turns to speak on each topic. Those speaking should be concise and limit comments to 2 minutes per turn. Each report is limited to 3 minutes and each presentation is limited to 5 minutes. As required by the State Sunshine Law (HRS 92), specific issues not listed on this agenda cannot be voted on, unless added to the agenda by a two-thirds vote (9) of this 13-member Board.

NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN (https://www.honolulu.gov/rep/site/nco/Neighborhood_Plan_2020_Edition.pdf):
§2-14-117 Order and decorum. (a) All board members shall promote and preserve the order and decorum of the board’s proceedings. (b) The presiding officer of the board or a majority of the board may expel any individual whose conduct at the board meeting is disruptive, disorderly, contemptuous, or improper for the conduct of business at the board meeting. [Eff. 10/20/08] (Auth: RCH §14- 103(a)) (Imp: RCH §14- 104)

BOARD BOUNDARIES: https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/boards-and-sub-district-boundary-descriptions

SUBSCRIBE TO MONTHLY AGENDAS: https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/newsletter-subscription

1. CALL TO ORDER – Secretary Eréndira Aldana (ealdana@hawaii.edu)
2. ROLL CALL – Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi (curtis.hayashi@honolulu.gov)
3. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) on incidents/statistics/safety tips (HFDNHB@honolulu.gov)
4. HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) on incidents/statistics/safety tips (https://www.honolulupd.org/contact-us)
i. District 1: Central Honolulu (west of Hauʻoli Street – see map at https://www.honolulupd.org/d1)
ii. District 7: East Honolulu (east of Hauʻoli Street – see map at https://www.honolulupd.org/d7)

5. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU REPORTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
A. Board of Water Supply (BWS) (https://www.boardofwatersupply.com/contact) – Steven Norstrom
B. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – Deputy Director Daniel Brieck of the Department of Environmental Services (ENV) (https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/newsletter) (https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/contact-the-mayor)
C. Councilmember Scott Nishimoto – Taylor Date (https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district-5-scott-nishimoto)

6. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS (Limited to 5 minutes each)
A. Approval of Initial Convening Meeting Written Summary for Video Record: Monday, July 28, 2025
B. Election of Vice Chair (to serve till Tuesday, June 30, 2026)
C. Establish Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) on Neighborhood Issues and Survey – Daniela Minerbi
D. Establish Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) on Bill 53 Relating to Affordable Housing – Justin Menina
E. Department of Transportation Services: HNL Connect (https://www.honolulu.gov/completestreets/transportation-demand-management) – Bekah Stinehour
F. Resolution Supporting the Kapahulu-Mo’ili’ili Parade – Kapahulu-Mo’ili’ili Parade Lions Club: Wendell Higa (parade chair) and Glen Takamori (parade co-chair)

7. STATE OF HAWAIʻI REPORTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
A. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – Gary Yamashiroya (gary.yamashiroya@hawaii.gov)
B. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa – Elmer Kaʻai (elmerk@hawaii.edu)
C. Senate District 10: Senator Les Ihara, Jr. (senihara@capitol.hawaii.gov)
D. Senate District 11: Senator Carol Fukunaga (senfukunaga@capitol.hawaii.gov)
E. Senate District 12: Senator Sharon Moriwaki senmoriwaki@capitol.hawaii.gov)
F. House District 22: Representative Andrew Garrett (repgarrett@capitol.hawaii.gov)
G. House District 23: Representative Ikaika Olds (repolds@capitol.hawaii.gov)
H. House District 24: Representative Adrian Tam (reptam@capitol.hawaii.gov)

8. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS
Questions for HFD, HPD, BWS, city officials, and state officials should be asked after their report. Residents, not board members, can share comments and concerns that are not listed on the agenda. Per the “Sunshine Law” (HRS 92), concerns not on the agenda may be presented, but the Board cannot take action.

9. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
Next Meeting: The McCully-Mōʻiliʻili Neighborhood Board No. 8 is scheduled to hold its next regular meeting on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in person at the McCully District Park Classroom 1 (ground floor) and online via Webex. To request a meeting agenda item, please contact the Chair at least two weeks before the scheduled meeting.

‘Olelo Broadcast and Reporting Neighborhood Issues: Meetings can be viewed on Channel 49 at 9:00 p.m. on the 3rd Friday of the month and the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 3:00 p.m. Visit https://www.honolulu.gov/csd/concern or use the Honolulu 311 App (https://honoluluhi.citysourced.com) to report neighborhood issues.

10. ADJOURNMENT

A mailing list is maintained for interested persons and agencies to receive this board’s agenda and minutes. Additions, corrections, and deletions to the mailing list may be directed to the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) at Kapālama Hale, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817, by telephone on (808) 768-3710, fax (808) 768-3711, or emailing nco@honolulu.gov. Agenda documents and minutes are also available online at http://www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards.html.

All written testimony must be received in the Neighborhood Commission Office 48 hours prior to the meeting. If within 48 hours of the meeting, written and/or oral testimony may be submitted directly to the Board at the meeting. If submitting written testimony, please note the Board and agenda item(s) your testimony concerns. Send to: Neighborhood Commission Office, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817, fax (808) 768-3711, email nbtestimony@honolulu.gov, or complete the form on https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/testimony.

If you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability or an interpreter for a language other than English, please call the Neighborhood Commission Office at (808) 768-3710 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. or send an email to nco@honolulu.gov at least three (3) business days before the scheduled meeting. It may not be possible to fulfill requests received after this date.

DRAFT INITIAL CONVENING MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
MONDAY, JULY 28, 2025 AT 6:30 P.M.
McCULLY DISTRICT PARK CLASSROOM – 831 PUMEHANA STREET, HONOLULU, HI 96826
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Video Recording of Meeting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EaVc9fn-2Rk

Google Drive Folder: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1tT9B36j02pFGAEYO6I2BzQiNKI9CRiKk

1. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:22]: Chair Pro Tem Morgan Lee called the meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. This 13-member board requires 7 members to establish quorum and take official board action.

Board Members Present: Daniela Minerbi, Darryl Young, Erendira Aldana, John Johnson, Justin Menina, Michelle Katchuck, Morgan Lee, Muhammad Anwar Quadri, Paul Robotti, Susan Pope (appointed at 6:47 p.m.), and Drew Erickson (appointed at 6:47 p.m.).

Board Members Absent: Christopher Salas and Kaishu Tamura.

Guests: Fire Captain Ocean Kaowili and Fire Fighter Levi Lemisio (Honolulu Fire Department); Sergeant Daniel Cunningham (HPD District 1); Lieutenant Michael Thompson (HPD District 7); Daniel Brieck (Mayor Blangiardi); Gene Albano and Chassity Santiago (Department of Facility Maintenance); Taylor Date (Councilmember Scott Nishimoto); Paula Bender (Hawaiʻi Bicycling League); Gary Yamashiroya (Governor Green); Elmer Kaʻai (University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa); Senator Carol Fukunaga; Venus Delos Santos (Senator Moriwaki); Representative Ikaika Olds; Flora Samis (Representative Tam); Keely Thompson (Congressman Case); Betsy Kawamura, Allison Peterson, Daisy Murai, Edward Huls, and Laura Ruby (Residents/Guests); Curtis Hayashi (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name not included if not legible or stated for the record. About 26 participants joined the meeting.

2. ROLL CALL – [0:01:02]: Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi conducted a roll call. Quorum WAS established with 9 members present.

3. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) – [0:01:59]: Fire Captain Kaowili introduced Fire Fighter Lemisio who provided the incident statistics for June 2025 and fire safety tips on wildland fire awareness. Should you have questions, please email HFD’s Public Affairs & Media Liaison at HFDNHB@honolulu.gov.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1k602I9xilhNXATqnXh6noV89Y5PQIvUR/view
• Website: https://fire.honolulu.gov

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:05:30]: Lee asked about the geographic borders of the fire district. Captain Kaowili explained that their borders run from McCully to Date Street near Kamuela Avenue, up to University Avenue through Metcalf on the top side, and as far as the Ala Wai bridge on the bottom side. Allison Peterson asked about lithium battery fires and related legislation. Captain Kaowili noted that lithium batteries are a concern, and some building boards prohibit lithium batteries in elevators or upstairs units, requiring storage below.

4. HONOLULU POLICE (HPD) – [0:10:16]

District 1: Central Honolulu (west of Hauʻoli Street) – [0:10:16]: Sergeant Daniel Cunningham reported the June 2025 statistics that can be found at https://www.honolulupd.org/information. There were 5 motor vehicle thefts, 2 burglaries, 11 thefts, 3 unauthorized entry into motor vehicles, 4 assaults, and 0 sex assaults, 0 graffiti cases, 0 drug arrests, and 355 total calls for service. HPD is accepting applications for the Citizens Police Academy, an 11-week program that educates community members about HPD operations. Apply online at https://www.honolulupd.org/cpa.
• Website: https://www.honolulupd.org/information

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:11:48]: Lee asked about the geographic borders of the police district. Sergeant Cunningham responded that District 1 covers the Ala Moana area to McCully Shopping Center.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) District 7: East Honolulu (east of Hauʻoli Street) – [0:12:32]: Lieutenant Michael Thompson provided an overview of the HPD’s District 7 and reported the June 2025 statistics that can be found at https://www.honolulupd.org/information. There were 13 motor vehicle thefts, 2 burglary cases , 16 theft cases, 6 car break-ins, and 5,453 total calls for service. Lieutenant Thompson warned about warrant scams where scammers use spoofed phone numbers that appear to be from HPD or sheriff’s offices. They claim the victim failed to show for jury duty or a court case and demand immediate payment via Bitcoin or gift cards. The payment request alone should be a red flag. If unsure, hang up and consult with family or call 911 for advice.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:14:41]: Robotti asked about licensing requirements for electric bikes. Lieutenant Thompson stated HPD has been enforcing regulations for vehicles without pedals like mopeds or dirt bikes, but case law is still developing. Robotti asked about noise monitoring devices. Lieutenant Thompson said devices would be placed in Waikiki, but he was unsure about monitoring and enforcement plans. Minerbi asked for clarification about scams. Lieutenant Thompson explained there are many types, with warrant scams being most prevalent currently. Pope thanked HPD for responding to incidents at the Ala Wai Community Gardens and requested increased officer presence after a city employee was followed by a suspicious person. Ruby thanked District 7 officers for helping catch someone digging at the Mōʻiliʻili Japanese Cemetery and for their professionalism at a Waikiki Neighborhood Board meeting.

5. INITIAL CONVENING BUSINESS – [0:21:50]

Board Member Introductions – [0:21:50]: Board members introduced themselves, shared how long they have lived in the community, and what they enjoy about the neighborhood. Paul Robotti shared he is a 28-year resident of McCully-Mōʻiliʻili, living at Beretania and Punahou. Muhammad Anwar Quadri shared he is a 3-year resident who previously served on the Manoa Neighborhood Board. Justin Menina shared he is a recent resident who previously lived in Waikiki and appreciates opportunities to improve community health and wellbeing. John Johnson shared he has been in the community for about 33 years and appreciates the central location. Eréndira Aldana shared she has lived in the neighborhood for about 14 years and loves the cultural diversity. 14-year resident, appreciates cultural diversity and manu-o-Kū. Morgan Lee shared she has lived in the neighborhood since 2021, enjoys living near the canal and parks, and appreciates the central location. Daniela Minerbi shared she is a 50-year resident who appreciates cultural diversity, schools, and parks. Darryl Young shared he has lived in the neighborhood for more than 50 years, grew up attending local schools, and enjoys walking in the neighborhood. Michelle Katchuck shared she is a 12-13 year resident of McCully who is serving a second term on the board and cannot wait for the Ala Wai Bridge so that it is easier and safer to get around the neighborhood.

Election of Officers (to serve till Tuesday, June 30, 2026) – [0:30:06]:
Chair: [0:30:45] – Aldana MOVED and Robotti SECONDED to nominate Morgan Lee for Chair. Hearing no other nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. Lee was elected Chair; 9-0-0 (Lee: Minerbi, Young, Aldana, Johnson, Menina, Katchuck, Lee, Quadri, and Robotti; Abstain: None) – [0:31:50].

Vice Chair: [0:33:09] –Robotti MOVED and Quadri SECONDED to nominate Paul Robotti for Vice Chair. [0:33:32] –Lee MOVED and Katchuck SECONDED to nominate Michelle Katchuck for Vice Chair. Hearing no other nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. No candidate received enough votes to be elected Secretary; 6-3-0 (Robotti: Minerbi, Young, Johnson, Menina, Quadri, and Robotti; Katchuck: Aldana, Katchuck, and Lee; Abstain: None) – [0:34:02].

Secretary: [0:35:19] – Lee nominated Eréndira Aldana for Secretary. Hearing no other nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. Aldana was elected Secretary; 9-0-0 (Lee: Minerbi, Young, Aldana, Johnson, Menina, Katchuck, Lee, Quadri, and Robotti; Abstain: None) – [0:35:38].

Treasurer: [0:36:27] – Quadri nominated Justin Menina for Treasurer. Hearing no other nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. Aldana was elected Secretary; 9-0-0 (Lee: Minerbi, Young, Aldana, Johnson, Menina, Katchuck, Lee, Quadri, and Robotti; Abstain: None) – [0:36:59].

Filling 2 Vacant At-Large Seats – [0:38:11]: Lee asked for interested community members to approach the microphone. Susan Pope introduced herself as a resident who moved to the neighborhood in 2010. [0:39:57] – Lee MOVED and Young SECONDED to nominate Susan Pope to fill a vacant at-large seat. Hearing no other nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. Pope was APPOINTED to fill a vacant at-large board seat; 9-0-0 (Lee: Minerbi, Young, Aldana, Johnson, Menina, Katchuck, Lee, Quadri, and Robotti; Abstain: None) – [0:40:06]. Drew Erickson introduced himself as a 25-year resident who has attended McCully Neighborhood Board meetings for about 4 years and loves the location of the neighborhood. Erickson shared that his neighborhood board journey started when he used to be the videographer for board meetings where he first learned about this process. [0:42:08] – Lee MOVED and Aldana SECONDED to nominate Drew Erickson to fill a vacant at-large seat. Hearing no other nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. Erickson was APPOINTED to fill a vacant at-large board seat; 9-0-0 (Lee: Minerbi, Young, Aldana, Johnson, Menina, Katchuck, Lee, Quadri, and Robotti; Abstain: None) – [0:43:06].

[0:44:09] – Pope and Erickson took the oath of office at 6:47 p.m.; 11 members present.

Determination of Regular Meeting Date, Time, Location, and Online Webex Option – [0:45:53]: Lee shared a history of the board’s meeting date, time, and location. The July 2025 meeting date changed to the last Monday of the month when there is no karate in the classroom next door. Robotti raised concerns about the loud fan and requested air conditioning in the meeting room. Aldana, Menina, Johnson, Katchuck, and Young spoke in support of hybrid meetings in person and online via Webex. Robotti suggested having an in-person only board meeting every six months. Without objection, Neighborhood Board No. 8 will meet on the last Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in person and online via Webex.

Determination of Recess Schedule – [0:51:44]: Lee shared that the board can have up to 3 recesses between July 1 and June 30 with no consecutive recesses per Neighborhood Plan §2-14-109. Lee noted that the Monday, May 25, 2026 meeting falls on Memorial Day and will be a mandatory recess. [0:53:55] – Lee MOVED and Quadri SECONDED to approve a recess for Monday, December 29, 2025. Without objection, the motion was ADOPTED; 11-0-0 (Aye: Minerbi, Young, Aldana, Johnson, Menina, Katchuck, Lee, Quadri, Robotti, Pope, and Erickson; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [0:54:30].

Adopt Board Meeting Rules of Speaking – [0:54:39]: Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi explained the current rules of speaking for Neighborhood Board No. 8 meetings. By board rules, audience and board members can have up to 2 turns to speak on each topic. Those speaking should be concise and limit comments to 1 minute per turn. Each report is limited to 3 minutes and each presentation is limited to 5 minutes.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:55:25]: Robotti emphasized the importance of time limits to efficiently get through agenda items. Lee suggested increasing the speaking time from 1 minute to 2 minutes and Minerbi supported this suggestion. Johnson asked how doubling the speaking time would affect the meeting length. Lee responded that neighborhood board meetings are dynamic and everyone must be out of the meeting room by 8:45 p.m. Minerbi asked if the speaking time limit can be modified and Lee replied that the speaking time limit can change in the future.

[0:58:42] – Aldana MOVED and Robotti SECONDED to allow audience and board members up to 2 minutes per turn. Without objection, the motion was ADOPTED; 11-0-0 (Aye: Minerbi, Young, Aldana, Johnson, Menina, Katchuck, Lee, Quadri, Robotti, Pope, and Erickson; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [0:59:00].

6. CITY REPORTS – [0:59:10]

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [0:59:12]: No representative present.
• Website: https://www.boardofwatersupply.com

Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [1:01:07]: Department of Environmental Services (ENV) Deputy Director Dan Brieck introduced himself as the Mayor’s representative to Neighborhood Board No. 8 and has been with ENV for about 13 years. Deputy Director Brieck shared updates from the Mayor’s newsletter. The City began an 80-acre master planning effort in the Iwilei-Kapālama sub-corridor. Mayor Blangiardi signed bills to increase public safety, especially along the Leeward coast, dealing with illegal game rooms. The Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts unveiled three new art installations as part of the Wahi Pana Storied Places public art project. The City now offers online driver’s license and learner’s permit tests with no appointments needed.
Deputy Director Brieck also responded to community concerns from the previous board meeting:
• Ala Wai Bridge Project (Ala Pono): Public input can be provided on a continuous basis by contacting the project manager, Peter Garino, Department of Transportation Services (DTS) at (808) 768-6651, or via email at peter.garino@honolulu.gov. To get regular updates on the status of the DTS projects please join the Honolulu Complete Streets mailing list at https://www.honolulu.gov/completestreets, follow hnl.completestreets on social media, and visit project specific webpage at https://www.honolulu.gov/completestreets/ala-pono.
• Kuilei Place Parking Concerns: The DTS does not have any plans to modify the existing street parking in the area surrounding this development. Residents who are interested in establishing a Restricted Parking Zone (RPZ) in their neighborhood can email RPZ@honolulu.gov to request to be added to the list of neighborhoods that will receive an evaluation. The City’s RPZ internet page (https://www8.honolulu.gov/dts/rpz) contains more information on the program, as well as a link to Ordinance 23-27, which contains the requirements established by City Council for neighborhoods to apply for this designation. Please note that DTS has resources to establish one (1) new RPZ per year.
• University Avenue Complete Streets Program: The City’s planned changes to University Avenue can be found online at https://www.honolulu.gov/completestreets/university-and-mccully. The Complete Streets improvements, which include new pedestrian, bicycle and transit infrastructure, are planned as part of a future roadway rehabilitation project that has been added to the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program to be able to receive federal funds. This project has not yet begun the design phase, so improvements are still years away. In the meantime, the City is planning to upgrade the uncontrolled crosswalk at Kuilei Street and improve the bike lanes makai of King Street.
• Bumpy Roadway on University Avenue: University Avenue between Date and King Street was completed on May 20-22, 2025.
• Mayor’s Newsletter: https://www8.honolulu.gov/mayor/newsletter
• Contact the Mayor: https://www8.honolulu.gov/mayor/contact-the-mayor

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:08:07]: Robotti requested that future reports identify who asked specific questions at previous meetings. Menina asked about funding for 20 miles per hour speed limit signs within school zones. Director and Chief Engineer Gene Albano of the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) responded that the Honolulu City Council recently approved $500,000 for DTS to work with DFM on the replacement of speed limit signs for schools. Laura Ruby commended trash pickup crews at Ala Wai Park and noted that if a bridge is built, more frequent pickups would be needed. She also urged proactive parking management at Kuilei Place. Lee asked about fixing the sprinkler system in parks along the Ala Wai Canal. Elmer Kaʻai provided an update on the University Avenue Complete Streets project, noting that move-in would begin in two weeks and traffic patterns have changed from two lanes to one lane in each direction. Johnson asked about the purpose of removing a lane on Dole Street. Menina explained it was to add buffered bike lanes and calm traffic following six serious injuries and one fatality over several years.

Department of Facility Maintenance – [1:15:39]: Director and Chief Engineer Gene Albano provided updates on stream maintenance. Ala Naio Stream is being cleared manually due to limited access and the narrowness of the ditch. Work should be completed in a couple of weeks. Makiki Stream has access restrictions through a private owner on Fern Street, limiting maintenance to weekends. Manoa-Palolo stream maintenance is being prioritized after work on the west coast and Kailua area is completed.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:17:46]: Lee asked about DFM’s equipment and machinery. Director Albano shared that he presented about stream maintenance to the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 (https://hnldoc.ehawaii.gov/hnldoc/document-download?id=25595, https://www.youtube.com/live/U7VRaG8z3YQ). DFM has only one long-reach excavator, with a second one being procured and expected to arrive by November 2025. DFM’s long-reach crane is difficult to maintain due to its age and the unavailability of parts. Betsy Kawamura asked about plans for the problematic area around Jack in the Box on Kalakaua Avenue and South King Street where shopping carts and other items are dumped in the stream. Director Albano acknowledged the complexity of the situation, noting that much of the debris results from homelessness issues. Laura Ruby requested that Ala Naio and Makiki waterways be referred to as “streams” rather than “ditches” and asked about repairing chain link enclosures at Makiki Stream and Manoa Stream to reduce debris. Director Albano introduced the new DFM Public Information Officer (PIO) Chassity Santiago (chass.santiago@honolulu.gov). If there is a request for sidewalk, road, or stream maintenance, email dfmroads@honolulu.gov.

Councilmember Scott Nishimoto – [1:33:12]: Taylor Date provided updates and thanked Director Albano for discussing stream maintenance in the district. He noted that Councilmember Nishimoto would follow up separately with the director to get more information about future plans for stream maintenance.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:35:40]: Menina asked about the unmarked crosswalk at South King Street and Makahiki Way, noting it is a high-injury intersection. Date suggested inviting DTS Deputy Director Jon Nouchi to explain why crosswalk markings were removed and discuss potential remedies. Lee mentioned the crosswalk near Whole Foods in Ward Village as a potential model. Menina noted that rapid flashing beacons could be an intermediate solution, costing around $20,000-$30,000 compared to the $500,000 spent for the pedestrian refuge island on Kamakee Street. Minerbi asked for updates on the Ala Wai Watershed draft bill. Date responded that Councilmember Nishimoto has met with stakeholders but noted mixed opinions from community members.

7. BOARD BUSINESS & PRESENTATIONS – [1:44:39]

Approval of Written Summary for Video Record: Thursday, May 1, 2025 – [1:44:44]: Without objection, the written summary was APPROVED as written; 11-0-0 (Aye: Minerbi, Young, Aldana, Johnson, Menina, Katchuck, Lee, Quadri, Robotti, Pope, and Erickson; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [1:44:50].

Approval of Special Meeting Minutes: Thursday, May 29, 2025 – [1:45:11]: Without objection, the special meeting minutes was APPROVED as corrected to reflect Susan Pope’s attendance as a board member; 11-0-0 (Aye: Minerbi, Young, Aldana, Johnson, Menina, Katchuck, Lee, Quadri, Robotti, Pope, and Erickson; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [1:45:21].

Establish Board Committees and Appoint Committee Members – [1:45:30]: Lee noted that interested board members could thinking about potential committees they would like to establish or join. Lee postponed this agenda item to August 2025.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:46:59]: Minerbi asked about the maximum number of committee members. Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi explained that committees can include as many community members as desired but no more than a quorum of neighborhood board members (maximum of 7 per committee).

Resolution Urging the Repair and Restoration of the Footbridge at Ala Wai Community Park – [1:47:45]: Lee introduced the resolution and provided an overview of the footbridge at the Ala Wai Community Park. The bridge has been closed for several years, forcing park users to go to the street to cross between the parks.
• Draft Resolution: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1y7AQU_y0790S0d6ZsQsH9QuqRbGgmapEP6yGod1tSsw/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.viyf95x5zd3o

[1:49:58] – Lee MOVED and Aldana SECONDED to adopt the resolution. Laura Ruby supported the resolution, noting that a lightweight bridge could be installed easily and would benefit sports leagues and canoe paddlers who currently must carry equipment long distances. Without objection, the resolution was ADOPTED; 11-0-0 (Aye: Minerbi, Young, Aldana, Johnson, Menina, Katchuck, Lee, Quadri, Robotti, Pope, and Erickson; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [1:52:21].

Resolution Urging the Installation of Raised Crosswalks – [1:52:37]: Lee introduced a resolution to install raised crosswalks in the area near Iolani and Ala Wai Elementary Schools, particularly at the intersection of University Avenue and Hihiwai Street, where there are no stop signs and high pedestrian traffic.
• Draft Resolution: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Zr3zC6LZ3wPYl_CLaIwH4qIZ5h3xz3h8vq_t1ZybEPA/edit?tab=t.0

[1:54:11] – Aldana MOVED and Menina SECONDED to adopt the resolution. Johnson asked about the procedure to request the installation of raised crosswalks. Lee explained that the Complete Streets Director Renee Espiau advised that specific resolutions help direct City resources. Katchuck asked for clarification on the definition of raised crosswalks and Menina explained raised crosswalks increase pedestrian visibility by 42-50% and are essentially marked crosswalks on top of speed tables. Minerbi asked if raised crosswalks help slow down cars. Ruby strongly supported the resolution, noting that Iolani School parents often speed through the area and endanger pedestrians. She suggested adding raised crosswalks at Ala Wai Elementary School. [1:59:28] – Quadri MOVED and Young SECONDED to unanimously adopt the resolution. Menina expressed support of the resolution and asked about future consideration of curb extensions in school areas. Ruby raised concerns about blind corners on roadways. Without objection, the resolution calling for raised crosswalks at University Avenue, Lauiki Street, and Kamoku Street intersections with Hihiwai Street near Iolani and Ala Wai Elementary Schools to improve pedestrian safety was ADOPTED; 11-0-0 (Aye: Minerbi, Young, Aldana, Johnson, Menina, Katchuck, Lee, Quadri, Robotti, Pope, and Erickson; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [1:52:21].

Walk Bike Drive Presentation – [2:00:43]: Paula Bender from the Hawaiʻi Bicycling League (HBL) presented on improving relationships between vehicle drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, highlighting the vulnerable road user law and safety concerns with the increasing traffic fatalities on O‘ahu. Traffic deaths are increasing, with 44 traffic deaths on O‘ahu and 70 statewide so far in 2025.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/18tATTjw6inLktWIGY-CQ48XPwerRsct7/view?usp=sharing

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:05:58]: Laura Ruby urged the HBL to advocate for fixing the McCully Bridge. Daisy Murai requested more public education about bicycle lane markings and how drivers should interact with them. Allison Peterson asked if HBL was working with HPD to restrict what types of bicycles can use bike lanes, particularly concerning e-bikes that travel at higher speeds. Menina asked if HBL could collaborate with DTS and HDOT (Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation) to increase public awareness about marked versus unmarked crosswalks and pedestrian right-of-way laws.

8. STATE REPORTS – [2:13:04]

Governor Josh Green’s Representative – [2:13:04]: Gary Yamashiroya, Special Assistant to the Director of Taxation, explained that Governor Green’s veto of a bill relating to e-bikes was vetoed because it would violate the U.S. Constitution’s equal protection clause. In response to a previous question about egg prices, he reported that the Department of Agriculture found that local eggs cost more due to higher production costs, but they have a longer shelf life than mainland eggs. Egg prices have decreased since the avian flu outbreak.
• Newsletter: https://governor.hawaii.gov/newsletter

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UH Mānoa) – [2:16:58]: Elmer Kaʻai shared information about student move-in on August 19, 20, and 21, 2025, with designated time slots between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. The fall semester begins on Monday, August 25, 2025. The University Avenue Complete Streets project has reduced traffic lanes, which will impact the 10,000-15,000 people who attend events like commencement. Campus updates include completion of Bachman Hall, delayed completion of Sinclair Student Services due to construction supply issues, and ongoing renovation of McCarthy Mall area. For any questions/concerns, email elmerk@hawaii.edu.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Cv8IEJNBkS0ikjwYvPTrkSXxR5SyPsyS/view

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:19:35]: Lee asked about changes in international student enrollment. Kaʻai said he would have that information by the next meeting. Allison Peterson asked about the utilization of Andrews Amphitheater. Kaʻai explained it is an older facility with ADA compliance issues, but the amphitheater is still used for commencement and other events. Quadri asked about plans for the University Lab School. Kaʻai said they are still conducting community outreach and have hired a consultant.

Senate District 10: Senator Les Ihara, Jr. – [2:22:09]: No representative present. For any questions/concerns, call (808) 586-6250 or email senihara@capitol.hawaii.gov.

Senate District 11: Senator Carol Fukunaga – [2:22:15]: Senator Fukunaga distributed her newsletter. For any questions/concerns, call (808) 586-6460 or email senfukunaga@capitol.hawaii.gov.

Senate District 12: Senator Sharon Moriwaki – [2:22:58]: Venus Delos Santos provided the report. The legislature passed 313 bills that were signed into law and 9 bills were vetoed. Vetoed bills included those that would have added red light cameras on the North Shore and sold naming rights to the convention center. For any questions/concerns, call (808) 586-6740 or email senmoriwaki@capitol.hawaii.gov.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:23:49]: Allison Peterson asked for more information about a neighborhood watch. Venus responded that several neighborhood watches invite residents to meet in the district and identify areas of concern. The McCully area is the only one in the district without a citizens patrol and Senator Moriwaki is interested in implementing one in McCully.

House District 22: Representative Andrew Garrett – [2:26:46]:No representative present. For any questions/concerns, call (808) 586-8475 or email repgarrett@capitol.hawaii.gov.

House District 23: Representative Ikaika Olds – [2:39:56]: Representative Olds shared that his bill HB 943 was passed into law as Act 299, establishing a homeless triage center for substance abuse and mental health treatment. His 2025 interim survey will be distributed soon and Representative Olds thanked DFM for cleaning the Ala Naio Stream. For any questions/concerns, call (808) 586-8515 or email repolds@capitol.hawaii.gov. Sign up for Representative Olds’ e-newsletter at https://mailchi.mp/capitol/email-sign-up.

House District 24: Representative Adrian Tam – [2:27:38]: Flora Samis provided the report, including the installation of 10 noise cameras by the end of 2025 and a request for raised crosswalks nearby Ala Wai Elementary School. For any questions/concerns, call (808) 586-8520 or email reptam@capitol.hawaii.gov.

9. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS – [2:29:44]

Congressman Ed Case – [2:42:52]: Keely Thompson provided a report for Congressman Case. Congressman Case is hosting a tele-talk story on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. (https://case.house.gov/events). The district office provides constituent services for VA (Veterans Affairs) benefits, Social Security, immigration, and other federal issues (https://case.house.gov/contact).

Ala Wai Bridge (Ala Pono) Project – [2:30:27]: Laura Ruby requested that Roger Morton provide a clear update on the Ala Wai Canal passageway (https://www.honolulu.gov/dts/ala-pono) at a future meeting.

10. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS

Next Meeting: The McCully-Mōʻiliʻili Neighborhood Board No. 8 is scheduled to hold its next regular meeting on Monday, August 25, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in person at the McCully District Park Classroom 1 (ground floor) and online via Webex. To request a meeting agenda item, please contact the Chair at least two weeks before the scheduled meeting.

11. ADJOURNMENT – [2:30:46]: Chair Lee adjourned the meeting at 8:35 p.m.

Submitted by: Curtis Hayashi, Neighborhood Assistant, Neighborhood Commission Office
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, Neighborhood Commission Office
Finalized by:

To view agenda and minutes, visit our board website.

Event shows physical location; however, other options of participation may also include WebEx and phone. If available, instructions for WebEx and phone can be found at the top of the agenda.