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

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 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: https://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/nco/wp-content/uploads/sites/53/2024/03/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 – Chair Morgan Lee (mepaynl@gmail.com)
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)
A. District 1: Central Honolulu (west of Hauʻoli Street – see map at https://www.honolulupd.org/d1)
B. District 7: East Honolulu (east of Hauʻoli Street – see map at https://www.honolulupd.org/d7)

5. FILLING ONE VACANT AT-LARGE SEAT: Interested residents must bring current proof of residency to the board meeting or contact Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi (curtis.hayashi@honolulu.gov) to verify residency before the meeting.

6. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU REPORTS
A. Board of Water Supply (BWS) (https://www.boardofwatersupply.com/contact) – Steven Norstrom
B. Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) Presentation on the Maintenance of Ala Wai Community Park and Neighborhood Park – Tara Hirohata (DPR District 1 Manager)
C. Homeless Outreach and Navigation for Unsheltered Persons (HONU) Program Impact at the Old Stadium Park (https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/citys-honu-facility-to-provide-homeless-services-at-old-stadium-park), Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement (CORE) (https://emergencyservices.honolulu.gov/core), and Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) (https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/mayor-blangiardi-signs-bill-51-establishing-downtown-honolulu-business-improvement-district) – Director of Homeless Solutions Roy Miyahira
D. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative (https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/newsletter) (https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/contact-the-mayor) on crosswalks and traffic safety, Ala Wai Bridge project, Kuilei Street traffic study, McCully Street Bridge, dog park rules, HNL Build, 1026 Kemole Lane project, Mayor’s Report, and Honolulu City Charter – Department of Environmental Services (ENV) Deputy Director Daniel Brieck
E. Councilmember Scott Nishimoto (District 5) (https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district-5-scott-nishimoto) – Taylor Date

7. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS (Limited to 5 minutes each)
A. Approval of Regular Meeting Written Summary for Video Record: Monday, September 29, 2025
B. Appointment of Transportation Committee Chair and Members – Morgan Lee/Justin Menina
C. Adopting a Resolution Requesting an Amendment to Neighborhood Plan §2-14-106 to Permit Email Notification of Board Member Absences – Morgan Lee

8. 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 on events/projects/updates – 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)

9. 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.

10. ANNOUNCEMENTS/REMINDERS
Next Meeting: The McCully-Mōʻiliʻili Neighborhood Board No. 8 is scheduled to hold its next regular meeting on Monday, November 24, 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 Chair Morgan Lee 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.

11. 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 https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards.

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 email nco@honolulu.gov at least 3 business days before the scheduled meeting. It may not be possible to fulfill requests received after this date.

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2025 AT 6:30 P.M.
McCULLY DISTRICT PARK CLASSROOM – 831 PUMEHANA STREET, HONOLULU, HI 96826
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Meeting Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyB9JZE-JU0
Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1tT9B36j02pFGAEYO6I2BzQiNKI9CRiKk

1. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:04]: Chair Morgan Lee called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

2. ROLL CALL – [0:00:27]: Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi conducted a roll call. Quorum was established with seven (7) members present. This 13-member Board requires seven (7) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.

Board Members Present: Eréndira Aldana (joined at 6:03 p.m.), Drew Erickson, John Johnson (joined at 6:03 p.m.), Michelle Katchuck, Justin Menina, Daniela Minerbi, Susan Pope, Muhammad Anwar Quadri (joined at 6:01 p.m.), Paul Robotti, Darryl Young (joined at 6:01 p.m.), and Morgan Lee.

Board Members Absent: Christopher Salas.

Guests: Fire Fighter Levi Lemisio and Captain Keith Endow (Honolulu Fire Department); Sergeant Wang (HPD District 1); Lieutenant Nishimura (HPD District 7); Daniel Brieck (Mayor Blangiardi’s Representative); Taylor Date (Councilmember Scott Nishimoto); Dustin Carr, Stanford Carr, Laura Robinson, and Samson Gomes-Hoohuli (Hale Mōʻiliʻili Project); Gary Yamashiroya (Governor Green); Elmer Kaʻai (University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa); Senator Les Ihara (Senate District 10); Senator Carol Fukunaga (Senate District 11); Venus Delos Santos (Senator Sharon Moriwaki); Representative Ikaika Olds (House District 23); Representative Adrian Tam (House District 24); Tom Heinrich, Karen Lynn, Daisy Murai, Allison Peterson, Laura Ruby, and Daisy Murai, Jenny Suzuki, and Keʻalohilani Wong (Residents/Guests); Curtis Hayashi (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name not included if not legible or stated for the record. About 33 participants joined the meeting.

3. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) – [0:01:04]:
Fire Fighter Lemisio and Captain Endow provided the incident statistics for August 2025:
FIRE EMERGENCIES
Structure: 3 Medical: 105
Wildland/Bush: 0 Motor Vehicle Collision w/Pedestrian: 4
Nuisance: 2 Motor Vehicle Crash/Collision: 11
Cooking: 1 Mountain Rescues: 0
Activated Alarms (no fire): 4 Ocean Rescues: 0
Hazardous Materials: 1

• Safety Tip: The National Fire Protection Association’s Fire Prevention Week campaign educates the public on safely using Lithium Ion batteries, which can overheat, start fires, or explode if overcharged or damaged. Safety tips include: 1) When buying a battery, look for safety certifications like UL or CSA; 2) Charge devices safely using manufacturer-provided cords, follow instructions, charge on hard surfaces, and avoid overcharging; 3) Recycle batteries responsibly, do not throw away in the trash, instead dispose of at proper recycling locations (visit call2recycle.org).
• Event Announcement: HFD is hosting a Fire Prevention and Family Day event on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Honolulu Zoo from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Os5oMo4zc9FkpPbP96GFoRy572Wk8Mo-/view

Quadri and Young joined the meeting at 6:01 p.m.; 9 members present.
Aldana and Johnson joined the meeting at 6:03 p.m.; 11 members present.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:04:24]:
• Ala Wai Park Water Usage: Chair Lee asked about HFD’s water usage at Ala Wai Community Park. Captain Endow stated they were not aware of any water dumping at Ala Wai Community or Neighborhood Park but would submit the question to their Community Relations Office.
• Condo Fire Safety Guidelines: Karen Lynn asked about specific fire safety guidelines for condo dwellers regarding lithium-ion battery storage. Captain Endow offered to provide this information at the next month’s meeting.

4. HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) – [0:07:25]
District 1: Central Honolulu (west of Hauʻoli Street) – [0:07:35]: Sergeant Cunningham provided the August 2025 statistics:
• Motor Vehicle Thefts: 3 (up from 1 last month)
• Burglary Cases: 1 (same as last month)
• Theft Cases: 10 (up from 4)
• Car Break-ins: 1 (down from 2)
• Assaults: 3 (up from 1)
• Sex Assaults: 2 (up from 0)
• Graffiti Cases: 0 (same as last month)
• Drug Offense: 0 (same as last month)
• Calls for Service: 405 (down from previous month)

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:08:31]:
• Statistical Reporting Consistency: Secretary Aldana asked about inconsistencies in the categories reported each month. Sergeant Cunningham explained he reports what is provided to him.
• Traffic Fatality Reporting: Treasurer Menina requested information on traffic fatalities or serious injuries within the neighborhood board district. Sergeant Cunningham agreed to follow up and add this to regular reporting.

District 7: East Honolulu (east of Hauʻoli Street) – [0:10:28]: Lieutenant Thompson provided the August 2025 statistics.
August 2025 Statistics:
• Motor Vehicle Thefts: 8 (down from 9 last month)
• Burglary Cases: 2 (down from 5)
• Theft Cases: 21 (up from 20)
• Unauthorized Entry Motor Vehicle: 2 (down from 6)
• Total Calls for Service: 5,882
• Safety Tip: Lieutenant Thompson shared ten safe driving tips for 2025 as part of the Chief’s Drive Aloha campaign: 1) Buckle up every trip; 2) Ensure children are in the right car seat; 3) Drive sober; 4) Pay attention to the road; 5) Obey speed limits; 6) Give yourself time to react; 7) Never drive drowsy; 8) Share the road responsibly; 9) Pay attention to flashing lights; 10) Check for recalls and ensure vehicles are safe.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:11:55]:
• Mobile Phone Laws: Chair Lee asked about laws regarding phone use while driving. Lieutenant Thompson explained that drivers cannot use any mobile device in their hand while driving but can use hands-free devices.
• Pedestrian Mobile Phone Use: Paul Robotti asked about rules for pedestrians using phones while crossing streets. Lt. Thompson indicated he did not think such a law has been passed yet.
• Statistical Discrepancy: Karen Lynn asked about the large difference in call volumes between Districts 1 and 7. Lieutenant Thompson explained that District 7 covers a larger portion of the neighborhood board area than District 1.
• Appreciation: Laura Ruby thanked District 7 officers for their assistance at the Mōʻiliʻili Japanese Cemetery area.

5. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU REPORTS – [0:15:34]

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [0:15:34]: Steven Norstrom reported no main breaks for August 2025. He reminded residents to reduce water usage by about 20% due to lower than normal rainfall and high water demand. Simple conservation tips include turning off the tap while brushing teeth, taking shorter showers, using garden nozzles instead of hoses, and irrigating early morning to reduce evaporation. More tips are available at boardwatersupply.com.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:16:22]:
• Sprinkler Waste: Chair Lee asked about regulations for sprinklers watering sidewalks. Norstrom encouraged reporting such waste to 808-748-5041 or contactus@hbws.org.
• Red Hill Update: Tom Heinrich announced an informational briefing by the House Special Committee on Red Hill scheduled for Thursday at 10:00 a.m., featuring reports from the Department of Health and EPA. He noted growing concerns about litigation against the Navy and federal government to cover expenses incurred by BWS, the City and County, and the State of Hawaiʻi in response to fuel spills.

Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [0:19:22]: Deputy Director Dan Brieck of the Department of Environmental Services provided updates from the Mayor’s August 2025 newsletter. The City honored an Oʻahu Purple Heart recipient during a ceremony at Honolulu Hale. Rail project broke ground on new guideways and stations across the third segment from Kalihi to Kakaʻako. The U.S. Department of Housing’s Urban Development Region 9 administrator visited to discuss housing and homelessness. New members of Honolulu’s Youth Commission were sworn in. Oʻahu’s junior lifeguards returned from the state championship with a historic victory. Deputy Director Brieck also highlighted the Honolulu Charter Commission’s once-per-decade review of the city charter, with community proposals due by November 7, 2025. Community meetings will be held in October, with information available at www.honolulucitycouncil.org/chartercommission.
• Responses to August 2025 Concerns: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cVxPbCJifo8WDykKLacnT0c_GGASkdSt26YLZ-kRe7s/edit?tab=t.0

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:33:33]:
• Noise Complaints: Chair Lee asked for clarification about noise complaint jurisdiction. Deputy Director Brieck explained that construction noise complaints go to the State Department of Health, while music noise complaints go to HPD.
• Isenberg Street Project: Treasurer Menina asked about the Isenberg Street reconfiguration project, requesting details about the design options being explored. He also raised concerns about removed crosswalks that still have yellow crossing signs, particularly near McCully Library and on Kapi’olani Boulevard, and asked if the city would work on a process of documenting cross walk removal and would DTS work with the neighborhood board on quick-build improvements near Ala Wai Elementary.
• Speed Study Details: Secretary Aldana requested the detailed results of the speed study near Ala Wai Elementary, noting that “majority” could mean just 51% of drivers following the speed limit.
• Purple Heart Ceremony: Member Robotti asked if local Purple Heart recipients could be invited to future ceremonies.
• Ala Wai Bridge Project: Member Katchuck and Member Minerbi requested updates on the Ala Wai Bridge project timeline and design-build RFP publication date. Minerbi emphasized the importance of having DTS representatives attend in person for this significant project.
• Ala Wai Pedestrian Bridge: Karen Lynn asked about the status of the pedestrian bridge between park pieces at Ala Wai Park, which has been closed for years.
• Dogs in Parks: Allison Peterson asked about enforcement of “No Animals” signs in Kapiʻolani Park, noting many leashed and unleashed dogs in the area.
• McCully Bridge Repairs: Member Minerbi requested updates on repairs to the pedestrian areas of the McCully Bridge, which she described as dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Project Input Process: Tom Heinrich asked about the best way to provide input on upcoming roadway projects, particularly for the South King and Isenberg Street intersection near Old Stadium Park.
• Build HNL Program: Chair Lee requested a presentation on the new Build HNL permitting program.
• Response Timeframe: Member Robotti asked if responses to questions could be provided sooner than the next monthly meeting. Deputy Director Brieck acknowledged the challenge of coordinating with multiple departments and agreed to discuss options.

Councilmember Scott Nishimoto – [0:48:09]: Taylor Date reported on a successful community cleanup at Old Stadium Park with about 20 community members. She mentioned plans for additional cleanups, including one in Pālolo next month. Date noted she had requested DPR attendance at the meeting to address park concerns but had not received a response.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:51:12]:
• Park Cleanup Collaboration: Treasurer Menina thanked the councilmember’s office for organizing the park cleanup and expressed interest in collaborating on additional cleanups, particularly at Frank Judd Park. He mentioned a local resident who maintains the park daily and has worked with DPR on improvements. Date offered to connect with this individual through Denny Higa, who runs the Adopt-a-Park program.

6. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS – [0:54:40]

Approval of Special Meeting Minutes: August 25, 2025 – [0:54:42]: Without objection, the Neighborhood Board No. 8 approved the minutes for its regular meeting on Monday, August 25, 2025; 11-0-0 (Aye: Aldana, Erickson, Johnson, Katchuck, Menina, Minerbi, Pope, Quadri, Robotti, Young, and Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None).

Election of Vice Chair (to serve till Tuesday, June 30, 2026) – [0:55:02]: Chair Lee opened nominations for Vice Chair. [0:55:13] – Secretary Aldana nominated Board Member Michelle Katchuck. Katchuck accepted the nomination. [0:55:25] – Board Member Robotti nominated himself. Hearing no other nominations, Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi conducted a roll call vote. Katchuck was elected Vice Chair; 8-3-0 (Katchuck: Erickson, Johnson, Katchuck, Menina, Pope, Quadri, and Lee; Robotti: Minerbi, Young, and Robotti; Abstain: None) – [0:55:55].

Resolution Supporting the Creation of Transportation Committee – [0:57:21]: Treasurer Menina presented a resolution to create a McCully-Mōʻiliʻili Neighborhood Board Transportation Committee. He provided context on traffic safety issues, noting that Oʻahu averages 50 road fatalities annually, with many occurring in urban Honolulu. He highlighted a recent incident where a 72-year-old pedestrian was fatally struck by a vehicle and showed maps identifying high-injury intersections in the area. The proposed committee would gather public input on missing sidewalks, bus stops, street lighting, and other infrastructure needs; promote pedestrian and bike safety; improve transit services; and monitor local projects.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:03:05]:
• Traffic Terminology: Secretary Aldana asked about the term “traffic violence.” Menina explained it acknowledges that traffic crashes result from systemic design choices that prioritize vehicle flow over pedestrian safety.
• Committee Commitment: Chair Lee asked about the time commitment. Menina anticipated bi-monthly meetings through the end of 2025, then monthly meetings in 2026.
• Committee Name Suggestion: Tom Heinrich suggested naming it the “Transportation and Public Safety Committee” to emphasize the safety element and offered to help as a community member.
• Traffic Circle Concerns: Laura Ruby cautioned about traffic circles. She also expressed concerns about elevated rail extensions to Mānoa because of the risk to protect view plans, suggesting street-level or underground alternatives.
• Traffic Circle Benefits: Treasurer Menina acknowledged implementation challenges but cited a successful example at the Wiliwili-Hihiwai intersection, where speeding dropped after installation.

[1:03:08] – Member Quadri MOVED and Chair Lee SECONDED to support the creation of a Transportation Committee. The motion was ADOPTED; 10-0-0.

Resolution Requesting a Maintenance Plan for the Two Ala Wai Parks – [1:11:52]: Chair Lee presented a resolution requesting a comprehensive care plan for Ala Wai Neighborhood Park and Ala Wai Community Park. He shared photos showing poor field conditions, including eroded grass, dirt mounds, and uneven surfaces that create unsafe playing conditions for sports. He explained that sprinkler systems had been broken for several years, and maintenance had declined since pre-2020.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:15:18]:
• Historical Maintenance: Member Robotti recalled playing at the parks in the late 1970s and early 1980s when fields were well-maintained by dedicated individuals rather than city employees.
• Comprehensive Approach: Secretary Aldana asked why the resolution didn’t include all parks in the area. Chair Lee explained she had specifically visited and documented issues at these two parks but was open to additional resolutions for other parks after assessment.
• Existing Maintenance Plans: Member Erickson asked about existing maintenance plans. Chair Lee noted recent communication about an insufficient sprinkler system but lacked complete information due to the absence of parks representatives at recent meetings.

[1:18:40] – Member Quadri MOVED and Vice Chair Katchuck SECONDED to support the resolution requesting a maintenance plan for the two Ala Wai parks. The motion was ADOPTED; 10-0-0.

Hale Mōʻiliʻili project – [1:19:08]: Stanford Carr, accompanied by Laura Robinson, Samson Hoohuli from Hawaiian Dredging, and Dustin Carr, presented updates on the Hale Mōʻiliʻili project. The 278-unit rental project exclusively for Native Hawaiians is located on the makai side of Stadium Park between Citron and King Street on Isenberg. On a 1.97 acre lot the development includes a 23-story high-rise, parking structure with 290 stalls, seven townhouses overlooking the park, and 4,700 square feet of retail space for 3-4 community commercial tenants. Dustin Carr reported that construction is about three months ahead of schedule, with the tower structure completed (“topped off”) and the parking structure under construction. Major construction activities are expected to slow by summer 2026, with move-ins anticipated by fall 2026. The project includes amenities such as a barbecue area, community garden, and tot lot.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:26:39]:
• Park Access: Chair Lee asked about resident access to the park. Dustin Carr explained there will be a pedestrian gate between the parking structure and townhouses.
• Resident Amenities: Chair Lee asked about amenities. Dustin Carr explained that as an affordable project, it doesn’t include pools or rooftop decks but does feature outdoor community spaces.
• Rental Structure: Member Erickson asked about maintenance fees. Maintenance fee is a term used for owning units. Dustin Carr clarified this is entirely a rental project for residents earning 30-100% of Area Median Income (AMI), with starting rents in the low $700s. The NAHASDA program provides additional subsidies, and DHHL has committed funds to cap rents at one-third of income for tenants earning 80% AMI or below.
• Project Features: Treasurer Menina expressed excitement about DHHL’s first urban core project and asked about the “woonerf” (living street) design and coordination with DTS on Isenberg Street improvements. Dustin Carr explained the woonerf is simply an interior walkway and confirmed they had coordinated with DTS, primarily committing to install no-parking signage along their frontage.
• Stormwater Management: Member Erickson asked about runoff management. Dustin Carr described rainwater catchment in the open space area, a storm filtration system, and an oil separator in the parking structure.
• Commercial Space: Member Minerbi asked about the retail space. Dustin Carr confirmed approximately 4,700 square feet for 3-4 businesses, with plans to target small Native Hawaiian-owned businesses. Karen Lynn asked and Dustin Carr confirmed these businesses would be open to the public.
• Historical Elements: Laura Ruby asked how the project would preserve the memory of the bowling alley previously on the site. Dustin Carr mentioned that the lobby flooring will incorporate original maple bowling lanes from lanes 18-20, and they plan to repurpose some exterior components.
• Parking Adequacy: Senator Ihara asked about resident parking. Dustin Carr explained they expect most tenants to have zero or one car due to the project’s proximity to public transportation. There will be one stall per unit plus guest parking.
• Architecture & Design: Keʻalohilani Wong asked for Dustin Carr to confirm the architect of the building and what design elements will be included. Carr confirmed architect and indicated they are not prepared to share the artist to help with local design elements. Member Minerbi asked what design elements in the new building will be reminiscent of the original bowling alley. Dustin Carr shared the flooring was repurposed for the lobby and elements for outside of the building are not yet finalized.
• Building Tour: Chair Lee requested a tour when the building nears completion, which Dustin Carr agreed to arrange.

7. STATE OF HAWAIʻI REPORTS – [1:47:33]

Governor Josh Green’s Representative – [1:47:33]: Gary Yamashiroya joined the meeting online via Webex after traveling. He had no specific updates and was available to take questions.

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UH Mānoa) – [1:49:03]: Elmer Kaʻai reported that UH is monitoring the potential federal government shutdown’s impact on grant-funded projects. He provided enrollment statistics for international students: 1,061 total (487 undergraduates, 574 graduates), with 300 continuing undergraduate students and 455 continuing graduate students. This represents about 4.7% of enrollment, below the national average. Kaʻai also mentioned increased moped traffic around campus and efforts to encourage courtesy.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:51:14]:
• Hawaiʻi Anuenue Renovations: Keʻalohilani Wong asked about UH’s partnership with Bishop Estate (Kamehameha Schools) on Hawaiʻi Anuenue renovations and potential community benefits. Kaʻai offered to provide detailed information at the next meeting.
• Campus Access Suggestions: Laura Ruby recommended eliminating parking fees for evening courses and activities to encourage community participation. She also suggested maintaining open green space at the College of Education property, requiring freshmen to live in campus housing to reduce impacts on community housing, and reconsidering the partnership with Kamehameha Schools.
• Grant Impact Information: Chair Lee asked how community members could subscribe to newsletters about grant impacts. Kaʻai offered to provide this information.

Senate District 10: Senator Les Ihara, Jr. – [1:55:28]: Senator Ihara discussed the Ala Wai watershed, noting he helped form the Ala Wai Watershed Association years ago. He emphasized that addressing stormwater drainage is critical before other projects can proceed, as sea level rise combined with heavy rainfall will cause flooding unless properly managed. He explained that the Army Corps of Engineers’ study did not include stormwater runoff because they only deal with navigable waters.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:58:47]:
• Drainage System Support: Treasurer Menina thanked Senator Ihara for his perspective and agreed that better drainage systems like those in Singapore, Germany, Seoul, and Tokyo could manage stormwater while replenishing aquifers.
• Housing Market Solutions: Secretary Aldana recalled a meeting earlier in the year about creating separate housing markets to protect local residents. Senator Ihara described this as “the issue of our generation,” noting that workforce housing often becomes unaffordable because government currently subsidized for affordable hoursing to be built after subsidy periods end. He advocated for a separate local housing market for the workforce, distinct from the international market, an idea put forth by Peter Savio.
• Foreign Buyer Restrictions: Member Erickson asked about legislation to restrict international buyers. Senator Ihara mentioned a bill to ban foreign ownership of agricultural lands but noted interstate commerce considerations. He suggested consulting with congressional representatives about federal-level restrictions.
• Watershed Emergency: Member Minerbi thanked Senator Ihara for emphasizing watershed issues and indicated she would propose a resolution at the next meeting to address this “emergency issue.”
• Detention Basin Requirements: Laura Ruby raised concerns about inadequate detention basins at new developments, particularly at Kuilei Place. She requested help identifying the agency responsible for monitoring compliance with detention basin requirements. However, Senator Ihara indicated that Laura was not providing enough tangible information for him to follow up any concerns. He would be able to research if Laura would be able to provide a data point for him look into.

Senate District 11: Senator Carol Fukunaga – [2:07:58]: Senator Fukunaga highlighted the Green Fee Advisory Committee’s first meeting. The committee, headed by environmentalist Jeff Mikulina, will identify criteria for projects funded by the new green fee. She noted that McCully-Mōʻiliʻili is particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts and encouraged the board to follow the committee’s work.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:10:04]:
• Advisory Committee Presentation: Chair Lee asked if Jeff Mikulina could present to the board. Senator Fukunaga agreed to facilitate this.
• Funding Distribution Concerns: Member Minerbi expressed concern that Mōʻiliʻili residents might bear the costs of watershed protection. Senator Fukunaga clarified that the green fee is collected from visitors in resort areas like Waikīkī and Ko Olina, while a separate stormwater utility fee being considered by the city would help upgrade infrastructure.
• Transportation Infrastructure Funding: Treasurer Menina asked if the green fee could support low-carbon transportation infrastructure like bike facilities and street trees. Senator Fukunaga suggested this might be separate from the energy-focused green fee but recommended inviting a representative to provide more information.
• Project Approval Process: Keʻalohilani Wong asked about the process for proposing grassroots projects. Senator Fukunaga explained that the advisory group will develop criteria, with the legislature and executive branch reviewing the Governor’s recommendations.

Senate District 12: Senator Sharon Moriwaki – [2:15:38]: Venus Delos Santos reported on Senator Moriwaki’s recent disaster preparedness fair held September 16 at Hoʻokupu Center in Kakaako, featuring agencies like HIEMA, HPD, HFD, and Red Cross. She reminded residents to complete the senator’s survey by September 30 and announced the Leia Lea Charity Run on October 12 at Ala Moana Beach Park benefiting the Waikīkī Aquarium’s coral reef research. She also mentioned Coffee with the Cop on October 1 at Kahala Mall with District 7 officers.

House District 23: Representative Ikaika Olds – [2:19:20]: Representative Olds reported on his interim survey with about 600 responses so far, with homelessness as the clear top concern. He mentioned the Legislators Listen town hall at Washington Middle School and growing concerns about feral chickens. He explained that Lunalilo Elementary School had installed taller perimeter fencing (about six feet) due to stranger danger incidents, unauthorized park use, and illegal dumping. He also mentioned efforts to extend McCully Library hours and improve security, and noted a noise camera being installed at the Kapiʻolani Boulevard and Hoawa Street intersection as part of a pilot program to collect data.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:23:33]:
• Library Advocacy: Chair Lee thanked Representative Olds for his library advocacy.
• Noise Camera Timeline: Chair Lee asked about the timeline for the noise camera to begin issuing citations. Representative Olds explained the pilot program is just starting installation and will initially only collect data.
• Survey Participation: Karen Lynn asked if residents outside the representative’s specific district could complete the surveys. Representative Olds welcomed input from all residents since they share common concerns.
• Noise Enforcement: Karen Lynn expressed frustration about nighttime noise on Ala Wai Boulevard despite years of complaints. Representative Olds acknowledged the challenge of enforcing noise violations when the source is mobile, explaining that HPD must catch violators in the act.

8. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS – [2:27:36]

Proposed Development Concerns – [2:27:48]: Jenny Suzuki, a property owner in Mōʻiliʻili, expressed concerns about a proposed six-story, 20-unit building at the corner where a pedestrian was recently killed. She noted the plan includes only nine parking stalls and questioned the “walkable” designation given the lack of sidewalks in the area. She requested an opportunity to present more information at a future meeting.

Pride Parade Participation – [2:29:09]: Chair Lee invited board members interested in marching in the Pride Parade to speak with her for more information.

9. ADJOURNMENT – [2:29:23]: Chair Lee adjourned the meeting at 8:28 p.m.

Submitted by: Curtis Hayashi, Neighborhood Assistant, Neighborhood Commission Office
Reviewed by: Eréndira Aldana, Secretary, Neighborhood Board No. 8
Finalized by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, Neighborhood Commission Office

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.