When

June 29, 2026

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, JUNE 29, 2026 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)

Meeting Recordings: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfqRwVpRroollU7X5HV_cLUq_uVAtoJCI
Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1tT9B36j02pFGAEYO6I2BzQiNKI9CRiKk

RULES OF PARTICIPATION
1. Anyone wishing to speak should raise their hand and, once recognized, address their comments to the Chair and stay on the current agenda item; online participants should mute themselves when not speaking, use the “raise hand” feature, and lower their hand after speaking.
2. Speakers may have up to two turns per topic, limited to two minutes per turn, while reports are limited to three minutes and presentations to five minutes.
3. In accordance with the Sunshine Law (HRS 92), items not listed on the agenda cannot be voted on unless added by a two-thirds vote of the 13-member Neighborhood Board, and members participating remotely must have their cameras on to be counted toward quorum.

Description of Board Boundaries: www8.honolulu.gov/nco/boards-and-sub-district-boundary-descriptions

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) (HFDNHB@honolulu.gov)
4. HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) (https://www.honolulupd.org/contact-us)
A. HPD District 1: Central Honolulu (west of Hauʻoli Street – see map at https://www.honolulupd.org/d1)
B. HPD District 7: East Honolulu (east of Hauʻoli Street – see map at https://www.honolulupd.org/d7)

5. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS (Limited to 5 minutes each)
A. Remembering Paul Robotti
B. Filling of 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 their residency.
C. Approval of Regular Meeting Written Summary for Video Record: Monday, February 23, 2026
D. Approval of Regular Meeting Written Summary for Video Record: Monday, April 27, 2026
E. Presentation on Affordable Rental Projects by Construction Services Group Hawai’i – John Meyers
F. Presentation on Urban Forestry by Division of Urban Forestry – Tavin Nagore
G. Vote on Establishing a Watershed and Flood Mitigation Committee – Daniela Minerbi
H. Vote on Ala Wai Gondola Resolution – Daniela Minerbi and Laura Ruby
I. Vote on Resolution Requesting the Inclusion and Prioritization of the Hausten (Ala Naio) Stream Footbridge Project in the City and County of Honolulu’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) – Morgan Lee
J. Vote on Resolution Requesting the Reinstallation of Drinking Fountains at Ala Wai Neighborhood Park and Ala Wai Community Park – Morgan Lee

6. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
Questions for HFD, HPD, BWS, city officials, and state officials should be asked after their report. Per the “Sunshine Law” (HRS 92), concerns not on the agenda may be presented, but the Board cannot take action. Use the HNL 311 website (HNL311.com) and mobile app to report city issues.

7. 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 (https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/newsletter) (https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/contact-the-mayor) – Deputy Director Daniel Brieck of the Department of Environmental Services (ENV)
C. Councilmember Scott Nishimoto (https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district-5-scott-nishimoto) – Taylor Date

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 – 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 23: Representative Ikaika Olds (repolds@capitol.hawaii.gov)
G. House District 24: Representative Adrian Tam (reptam@capitol.hawaii.gov)
H. House District 22: Representative Andrew Garrett (repgarrett@capitol.hawaii.gov)

9. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
Next Meeting: The next McCully-Mōʻiliʻili Neighborhood Board No. 8 regular meeting is scheduled on Monday, July 27, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in person at the McCully District Park Classroom 1 and online via Webex. To request a meeting agenda item, please contact the Chair at least two weeks before the scheduled meeting.

‘Olelo Broadcast: 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.

10. ADJOURNMENT

Neighborhood Board Boundaries: https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards

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.

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, or complete the form on https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/board-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 as soon as possible, preferably at least three (3) business days before the scheduled meeting. If a request is received with fewer than three (3) business days remaining before the meeting, we will try to obtain the auxiliary aid/service or accommodation, but it may not be possible to fulfill requests received after this date.

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2026 AT 6:00 P.M.
McCULLY DISTRICT PARK CLASSROOM – 831 PUMEHANA STREET, HONOLULU, HI 96826
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Meeting Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guwquwesuwo&list=PLfqRwVpRroollU7X5HV_cLUq_uVAtoJCI

Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1tT9B36j02pFGAEYO6I2BzQiNKI9CRiKk

1. CALL TO ORDER [0:00:00]: Chair Lee called the meeting to order at 6:16 p.m.

2. ROLL CALL [0:00:12]: Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi conducted a roll call. Quorum was established with 12 members present. This 13-member Board requires 7 members to establish quorum and to take Board action.

Board Members Present: Erendira Aldana (Secretary), Drew Erickson, John Johnson, Michelle Katchuck (Vice Chair left at 7:28 p.m.), Justin Menina (Treasurer), Daniela Minerbi, Susan Pope, Muhammad Anwar Quadri, Paul Robotti (joined at 6:21 p.m.), Christopher Salas, Ke’alohilani Wong, Darryl Young, and Morgan Lee (Chair).

Board Members Absent: None.

Guests: Captain Keith Endow (Honolulu Fire Department); Sergeant K. Lee, Major Paul Okamoto, Major Scott Matsumura, Lieutenant Winston Leong, Acting Lieutenant Chad Padilla, and Lieutenant Michael Thompson (Honolulu Police Department); Gary Yamashiroya (Governor Green); Brandon Hong, Sharon Gi, and Grant Chang (Kauwela Apartments Project at 2118 Citron Street); Wendell Higa and Heather (Kapahulu-Mōʻiliʻili Lions Club); Steven Norstrom (Board of Water Supply); Department of Environmental Services Deputy Director Daniel Brieck (Mayor Blangiardi); Taylor Date (Councilmember Nishimoto); Representative Ikaika Olds; Representative Adrian Tam; Charles (Senator Moriwaki); Dale Vanderbrink, Laura Ruby, Flora Samis, and Karin Lynn (Residents/Guests); Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name not included if not legible or stated for the record. About 50 participants joined the meeting.

3. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) [0:01:27]: Captain Endow of Engine 29 at the McCully Fire Station reported the March 2026 statistics: one rubbish fire, two cooking fires, 18 activated alarms with no fire, 100 medical incidents, and five motor vehicle collisions. The safety tip on evacuation planning highlighted maintaining an emergency preparedness plan, identifying at least two escape routes from home, designating a predetermined meeting place, signing up for HNL Alert (https://www.honolulu.gov/dem/hnl-alert), and preparing a go bag with essentials. For more information, visit https://fire.honolulu.gov.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/14uIwYJJoMZ4dfzsfaa6qyH0sLAJqVDCQ/view

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:03:07]:
1. Emergency Dispatch: Chair Lee asked whether it is better to request ambulance or fire when calling 911 for a medical concern. Captain Endow advised requesting ambulance and stated the HFD will co-respond.

4. HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) [0:03:57]

HPD District 1: Central Honolulu [0:04:03]: Sergeant Lee reported the March 2026 statistics for District 1: one motor vehicle theft, one burglary, eight thefts, zero UEMVs (unauthorized entries into motor vehicles), two assaults, zero sex assaults, zero graffiti, and zero drug cases. There were 381 total calls for service. The safety tip emphasized the importance of crosswalk use, noting an increase in pedestrian accidents and MVCs (motor vehicle collisions).

Member Robotti joined the meeting at 6:21 p.m.; 13 members present.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:05:10]:
1. Indecent Exposure at Ala Wai Community Garden: Member Pope reported an increase in incidents of indecent exposure at the Ala Wai Community Garden, which has approximately 160 plots. Major Okamoto advised calling 911 promptly, providing a description of the individual and location, remaining on scene to meet with the patrol officer, and being willing to write a statement and identify the suspect to support a prosecutable case.
2. Isenberg Street Parking and Construction: Member Wong asked about parking citations issued on Isenberg Street in connection with the Hale Mōʻiliʻili construction project and whether City stalls were still allocated to the developer. Lieutenant Thompson stated he was not aware of a permitting situation and asked for the specific citation information. Member Wong stated she needed to check with her neighbors regarding their parking citations. Chair Lee noted that the developer had since freed up three additional parking spaces. Member Wong asked how to request more street parking. Chair Lee suggested directing the question to Representative Olds.
3. Tire Marking and Citation Process: Member Wong asked about the process for marking tires and issuing citations to vehicles parked for extended periods. Major Okamoto explained HPD’s street parking enforcement when HPD marks tires and return within 24 hours to issue a citation if the vehicle has not moved. Residents are encouraged to call again to report vehicles that remain stationary after marking.
4. Noise Complaint: Member Pope reported early-morning noise from a gym on King Street nearby Isenberg Street. She asked how residents can report excessive noise. Major Okamoto stated that officers can respond under a disorderly conduct standard and advised calling 911 and requesting that an officer speak with the gym manager.
5. HPD Presence on University Avenue: Member Wong asked about the presence of approximately 12 to 13 officers on University Avenue the week of April 10, 2026. Lieutenant Thompson stated he did not have information available.

HPD District 7: East Honolulu [0:15:32]: Lieutenant Thompson reported March 2026 statistics for District 7: 16 motor vehicle thefts, four burglaries, 21 thefts, three unauthorized entries into motor vehicles, and 5,697 total calls for service. The safety tip focused on distracted driving: in 2024, distracted driving resulted in over 3,000 deaths and 315,000 injuries nationally. HPD advises motorists to not be distracted while driving. He advised residents to call HPD to report incidents.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:17:19]:
1. Ala Wai Community Garden: Lieutenant Thompson will pass on information to the watches and asked anyone encountering illegal activity in the garden to report incidents to HPD.
2. Noise Complaint: Lieutenant Thompson asked and Member Pope clarified her noise concern about the gym name.
3. Hale Mōʻiliʻili Street Parking: HPD does not handle street parking permits and only enforces parking violations.
4. Moped Thefts: Member Johnson asked whether mopeds are included in motor vehicle thefts, and Lieutenant Thompson confirmed that they are. Member Johnson reported repeated incidents at Kalo Place Mini Park involving individuals grinding off VIN numbers from mopeds and stated prior police responses did not result in action. He added that a University of Hawaii officer identified a discarded moped and is coordinating with HPD. Lieutenant Thompson stated that park issues include nuisances and mopeds, advised residents to call 911, and noted that registered mopeds are easier to trace.

[0:23:12] – Without objection, Chair Lee took the agenda out of order.

8. STATE OF HAWAII REPORTS [0:23:20]

Governor Josh Green’s Representative [0:23:20]: Gary Yamashiroya reported that the State extended the tax filing and payment deadline to Monday, July 20, 2026 for residents affected by the Kona low storms. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has separately extended the federal tax deadline to Wednesday, July 8, 2026, with no application required. Yamashiroya also noted a rise in fraudulent charitable solicitations following the storms and directed residents to verify organizations through the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Attorney General’s tax and charities division, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax-exempt organization search, and the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) business search. Also, the Office of Wellness and Resilience is conducting a quality of life survey available at https://www.health-study.com for residents 18 years and older.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:27:15]:
1. Isenberg Street Pronunciation: Member Pope asked for TheBus to correct the pronunciation of Isenberg Street. Chair Lee asked Member Pope to direct her question to the Mayor’s representative.

Chair Lee returned to the regular meeting agenda.

5. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS [0:27:47]

Approval of Regular Meeting Written Summary for Video Record: Monday, November 24, 2025 [0:28:01]: Secretary Aldana recommended the approval of the November 2025 written summary. Without objection, the written summary was ADOPTED; 13-0-0 (Aye: Aldana, Erickson, Johnson, Katchuck, Menina, Minerbi, Pope, Quadri, Robotti, Salas, Wong, Young, and Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None).

Approval of Regular Meeting Written Summary for Video Record: Monday, January 26, 2026 [0:28:14]: Secretary Aldana recommended the approval of the January 2026 written summary. Without objection, the written summary was ADOPTED; 13-0-0 (Aye: Aldana, Erickson, Johnson, Katchuck, Menina, Minerbi, Pope, Quadri, Robotti, Salas, Wong, Young, and Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None).

Approval of Regular Meeting Written Summary for Video Record: Monday, February 23, 2026 [0:28:20]: Secretary Aldana identified errors in the recorded votes. Approval of the written summary was postponed.

Approval of Regular Meeting Written Summary for Video Record: Monday, March 30, 2026 [0:29:37]: Secretary Aldana recommended the approval of the March 2026 written summary. Without objection, the written summary was ADOPTED; 13-0-0 (Aye: Aldana, Erickson, Johnson, Katchuck, Menina, Minerbi, Pope, Quadri, Robotti, Salas, Wong, Young, and Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None).

Resolution Urging a Tax on Vacant Lots [0:29:53]: Dale Vanderbrink shared the proposed resolution urging the Honolulu City Council to establish a vacant lot property tax surcharge. He explained the recommended provisions and provided a list of vacant parcels in the neighborhood. Vanderbrink stated that he was unable to identify the owner of one parcel on Fern Street and noted it has been in a private trust for at least 16 years.
• Draft Resolution: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13kIXLJQSfCmbVetPjiDIceX823aCDqg-/edit

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:31:45]:
1. Incentives vs. Taxation: Member Minerbi asked whether landowner incentives have been considered rather than taxes. Vanderbrink noted that the City already offers incentives, but many property owners choose not to utilize them because holding vacant land appreciates in value more than the cost of taxes. Member Minerbi also asked if Vanderbrink asked landowners why they do not develop vacant parcels. Vanderbrink stated that his attempts to contact several property owners were unsuccessful.
2. Small Parcels and Generational Buildings: Laura Ruby asked how the resolution would prevent developers from acquiring vacant land, whereas “family plots” will be used sometime in the future. Vanderbrink acknowledged the resolution does not specifically address that situation, but nothing stops this situation in the status quo.

[0:37:10] – Chair Lee MOVED and Secretary Aldana SECONDED to vote on the resolution. Following a roll call vote, the resolution was NOT ADOPTED; 2-3-8 (Aye: Salas and Lee; Nay: Aldana, Johnson, and Wong; Abstain: Erickson, Katchuck, Menina, Minerbi, Pope, Quadri, Robotti, and Young).

Kauwela Apartments Project at 2118 Citron Street [0:38:50]: Brandon Hong of Core Tech Development introduced the team for the proposed Kauwela Apartments, a 42-unit affordable rental project at 2118 Citron Street. Sharon Gi, a consultant to Core Tech Development, and architect Grant Chang of Lowney Architecture presented the project details. The proposal features a four-story building over a single level of parking, with 26 parking stalls, 16 long-term bicycle stalls, and shared amenities including a garden terrace, community room, and laundry facilities. Units would range from studios (about 477 square feet) to one-bedroom units (about 548 square feet), serving households earning between 30% and 80% of area median income (AMI). The project is seeking Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) funding through low-income housing tax credits, with construction expected to begin in early 2027 if the credits are awarded.
• Slideshow: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yXhGgyh8ouKEp97htiDgpcg9aPdiTJbu/view

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:47:25]:
1. Affordability Duration: Member Minerbi asked how long rents would remain affordable. Gi explained that rents are set annually by federal and state agencies, and may increase approximately 3% per year in line with inflation for the duration of the regulatory agreement.
2. For-Sale vs. Rental Housing: Member Minerbi asked whether the project could include for-sale units. Gi noted that Core Tech Development specializes in affordable rental housing.
3. Other Hawaii Projects: Member Wong asked whether Core Tech has other active development projects in Hawaii. Hong confirmed one military construction project at Fort Shafter and one private joint venture underway.
4. Guam Land Dispute: Secretary Aldana asked about a reported land dispute between Core Tech International Corporation and the government of Guam. Hong stated he was not familiar with Guam operations. Gi noted that if the matter is in litigation, publicly available information would likely be the only accessible source.
5. Unit Sizes and Family Housing: Member Robotti asked about apartment dimensions. Chang confirmed studios are approximately 477 square feet and one bedrooms approximately 548 square feet. No two-bedroom units are included in this project due to site constraints. Chair Lee asked about Core Tech’s two-bedroom projects and Chang referred to Core Tech’s other projects.
6. Value of Development Properties: Member Wong asked for the net value of Core Tech’s development properties. Gi replied that Core Tech develops market rate and affordable housing along with commercial centers and hotels.
7. Storm Water Management: Treasurer Menina asked about storm water management and green infrastructure features given flooding in the area. Chang stated that the City has been implementing stringent storm water management on-site retention chambers beneath the parking level are designed to handle large storm events, and planters on the amenity deck provide additional above-grade retention in compliance with City requirements.
8. Green Space and Building Name: Laura Ruby encouraged additional green plantings. Chang noted that flood zone compliance requires raising the building, which constrains ground-level green space. Gi noted the project name Kauwela means summer in Hawaiian, consistent with the developer’s naming conventions used in Guam.

Resolution Supporting the Annual Kapahulu-Mōʻiliʻili Lions Club Christmas Parade [1:01:57]: Wendell Higa introduced Heather as the Kapahulu-Mōʻiliʻili Lions Club Christmas Parade representative. Heather shared information about the 2026 Lions Club Christmas Parade scheduled on Thursday, December 10, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. She said the Royal Hawaiian Band will participate for the first time this year, and the parade is fully permitted, insured, and supported by the Mayor’s office. The parade route begins at Prince Jonah Kuhio Elementary School and goes along South King Street to South Beretania Street to Old Stadium Park. Last year’s parade included 25 marching groups and approximately 575 marchers, with participation from Neighborhood Board members, school bands, JROTC cadets, and community organizations.
• Draft Resolution: https://docs.google.com/document/d/12NkFEXI2i_mPTexkdwyNZ85EQY_rKIHn/edit

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:05:07]:
1. Affordability Duration: Chair Lee asked if the parade route could be longer and possibly go on Kapahulu. Higa shared reasons why the parade is looked at as short and mentioned a lot of children help Santa pass out candy.

[1:06:15] – Chair Lee MOVED and Secretary Aldana SECONDED to adopt the resolution. Without objection, the resolution was ADOPTED; 13-0-0 (Aye: Aldana, Erickson, Johnson, Katchuck, Menina, Minerbi, Pope, Quadri, Robotti, Salas, Wong, Young, and Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None).

Resolution Urging the City to Extend the Compliance Deadline for New Community Garden Rules [1:06:47]: Flora Samis, a gardener at the Ala Wai Community Garden, presented a resolution requesting the Department of Parks and Recreation to extend the compliance deadline for new community garden rules from Tuesday, May 12, 2026 to Thursday, December 31, 2026. She noted that new rules introduced about one year ago require updates to fencing, materials, and plot conditions. Samis shared that gardeners have had limited time due to recent storms and wet weather, and many are income-limited or elderly. She claimed the garden has more than 200 people on its waitlist and about 160 active plots.
• Slideshow: https://docs.google.com/document/d/12ep23NbXC77WhsSW2l4MAmyHD7Iid1UgVzYBHCv-d7I/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.ndh0dzg6v36u

Vice Chair Katchuck left the meeting at 7:28 p.m.; 12 members present.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:14:20]:
1. Waitlist and Fairness: Member Aldana asked if it is fair to extend the deadline further given the existing waitlist and prior notice. Samis noted that turnover in the garden is already frequent, that many on the waitlist move through quickly, and that her concern is primarily for elderly and income-limited gardeners who lack the resources or physical capacity to make required changes quickly.

[1:16:23] – Chair Lee MOVED and Treasurer Menina SECONDED to vote on the resolution. Following a roll call vote, the resolution was ADOPTED; 9-0-3 (Aye: Erickson, Johnson, Menina, Minerbi, Quadri, Robotti, Wong, Young, and Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: Aldana, Pope, and Salas).

Resolution Urging a Street Light on Kuilei Street and University Avenue [1:18:53]: Member Minerbi presented a resolution requesting improved street lighting, crosswalk markings, and sidewalk conditions at the intersection of Kuilei Street and University Avenue. She described inadequate lighting, faded pavement markings, and obstructed sightlines due to illegally parked vehicles. Deputy Director Brieck reported that City staff from the DDC (Department of Design and Construction) investigated and found that a street tree in the median on University Avenue was blocking adjacent light fixtures. DDC is coordinating with the DPR (Department of Parks and Recreation) to trim the tree branches. Member Minerbi agreed to amend the resolution to include enforcement of the existing no-parking sign, repainting of crosswalk markings, and monthly inspection of the tree to determine whether trimming is needed.
• Draft Resolution: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yqDaSPW2fuHCnwTE-qewh4cM9xAGl7en/edit

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:23:45]:
1. Tree Trimming and Ongoing Maintenance: Member Robotti shared his experience at the intersection of Beretania and Punahou Street, and tree trimming provides only temporary relief and may need to be repeated regularly. Board members agreed to include a provision in the resolution for monthly monitoring.

[1:28:57] – Chair Lee MOVED and Secretary Aldana SECONDED to adopt the resolution with amendments. Following a roll call vote, the resolution was ADOPTED as amended; 12-0-0 (Aye: Aldana, Erickson, Johnson, Menina, Minerbi, Pope, Quadri, Robotti, Salas, Wong, Young, and Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None).

6. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS [1:30:20]

Ala Wai Canal Ferry Proposal [1:30:25]: Laura Ruby asked for support of a passenger ferry across the Ala Wai Canal.

7. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU REPORTS [1:32:42]

Board of Water Supply (BWS) [1:32:46]: Steven Norstrom reported one main break in March 2026: a 6-inch break on March 16 near the Burger King at 2570 South Beretania Street. He noted that despite recent rainfall from the Kona low storms, water conservation remains important throughout the year, particularly during warmer months.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/146rr3XdoK1ks7M77xHUf38g5WL2NWO50/view

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:33:38]:
1. Water Conservation: Laura Ruby asked whether new developments are incorporating water conservation measures. Norstrom noted the Hale Mōʻiliʻili project includes greywater systems and exceeds standard conservation requirements. He encouraged conservation efforts across all residents.

Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative [1:35:26]: Daniel Brieck, Deputy Director of the Department of Environmental Services (ENV), provided the following updates from the Mayor’s newsletter (https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/newsletter).

Brieck provided written responses to prior Neighborhood Board inquiries:
• Varsity Place/Circle Cleaning: Illegal dumping along the fence line has been addressed; debris remaining in Varsity Place/Circle is on State property. Residents can call the Hawaii Department of Transportation at 808-587-2160.
• Kalakaua Avenue Bus Stop: Replacement trash bins will not prevent illegal dumping of bulky items. The City has limited resources for increased servicing. Residents may report issues through HNL 311 or by emailing DFMroads@honolulu.gov. The City has resources for power washing of concrete bus stop areas.
• Kalo Place Mini Park Lights: A City crew inspected the mini park on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, but was unable to verify all walkway lights were functioning. A night crew inspection is scheduled for verification.
• City Staffing: DFM (Department of Facility Maintenance), DTS (Department of Transportation Services), and HPD vacancy rates are 25.2%, 13.2%, and 22.6% for civil service positions. Open positions are advertised on City websites. HPD’s effective vacancy rate may fall to 16.5% as personnel in training transition to civil service status.
• University Avenue and Kuilei Street: DDC is coordinating with DPR to trim a median tree that is blocking street light beams. Long-term improvements under a federal Safe Streets grant include quick-build crosswalk upgrades at this and other high-injury locations. A complete streets plan for University Avenue and McCully is available at https://www.honolulu.gov/completestreets/university-and-mccully.
• Bus and Skyline Rail Integration: DTS will release a plan of proposed improvements this summer for public comment, in coordination with the planned opening of Skyline Segment 3 (Middle Street to Downtown, anticipated 2031). More information is available at https://www.honolulu.gov/DTS/skyline/bus-connections.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:44:11]:
1. Isenberg Street Pronunciation: Member Pope asked for TheBus to correct the pronunciation of Isenberg Street. Deputy Director Brieck advised submitting a report through HNL 311.
2. Mayor’s China Trip: Chair Lee asked about the Mayor’s trip to China and bringing pandas to Honolulu. Deputy Director Brieck confirmed the City is trying to acquire pandas for the Honolulu Zoo.
3. Tour de Trash: Deputy Director Brieck announced a Tour de Trash event scheduled for Thursday, June 25, 2026 from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., offering a free tour of the City’s refuse facilities including H-Power and the landfill.
4. Speeding Concerns: Laura Ruby requested the City to address speeding on Kuilei Street and Waiaka Road.
5. G.R.O.W. Program Feedback: Karin Lynn asked about the progress of the G.R.O.W. composting program. Brieck confirmed the program is in a pilot phase and that no complaints have been received. Results are being monitored.
6. Ala Wai Promenade Lighting: Chair Lee and Member Young reported several lights along the Ala Wai Promenade and the adjacent parking lot have been non-functional for about one month, with at least one light strobing per Karin Lynn. Chair Lee stated that an HNL 311 request had been submitted and asked for urgency in the response.

Councilmember Scott Nishimoto (District 5) [1:54:11]: Taylor Date thanked participants of a recent cleanup at Mōʻiliʻili Field who removed trash and debris from houseless encampments and parkgoers. Painting of bathrooms and benches was not completed due to the presence of individuals at the park. Future cleanups of this type will include HPD. Councilmember Nishimoto is focused on finalizing the City’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget and advocating for community projects.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:55:30]:
1. Park Cleanup: Member Pope and Chair Lee shared comments about the park painting and cleanup.

8. STATE OF HAWAII REPORTS (CONTINUED) [1:57:33]

House District 23: Representative Ikaika Olds [1:57:35]: Representative Olds reported that all five bills he discussed at the prior meeting did not pass the Senate. The safe enclosure bill was heard in committee, but deferred by the chair. HB 2167 (Vulnerable Youth Housing Stability Program) did not receive a Senate hearing; however, the funding may still be included as a line item in the budget. Representative Olds announced that Waiaka Road resurfacing will begin on Saturday, June 6, 2026, under a contract awarded to Nan Inc. He apologized for delays in his April 2026 newsletter delivery and invited the board to a Resiliency Hub town hall with Della Au Belatti on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
• Newsletter: https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/MemberFiles/House/Olds/Newsletters/2026AprNewsletter.pdf
• Sign Up for Newsletters: https://mailchi.mp/capitol/email-sign-up

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:00:31]:
1. Legislative Priorities: Chair Lee asked about Representative Olds’ legislative focus. Olds shared it is an election year, so legislators have to come to a consensus.

House District 24: Representative Adrian Tam [2:01:41]: Representative Tam reported that the House and Senate remain in disagreement over the state budget. He also met with Ala Wai Elementary School and City departments to discuss pedestrian and traffic safety around the school. Data from the City’s DTS does not indicate excess speeding at the relevant crosswalk; alternatives under discussion include a median refuge, yellow placards, and crossing flags. Representative Tam is working with Chair Lee to identify grant funding for traffic safety improvements.
• Newsletter: https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/memberfiles/House/Tam/Newsletters/2026AprNewsletter.pdf

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:05:12]:
1. Traffic Calming Standards: Treasurer Menina commented that DTS’ reliance on the 85th-percentile speed standard is considered an outdated metric by the Federal Highway Administration, and that best practice standards for traffic calming should be applied. Representative Tam stated he would request the relevant data from his office and offered to meet with Treasurer Menina and Chair Lee.

House District 22: Representative Andrew Garrett [2:06:49]: No report.

Senate District 10: Senator Les Ihara, Jr. [2:06:56]: No report.

Senate District 11: Senator Carol Fukunaga [2:07:03]: No report.

Senate District 12: Senator Sharon Moriwaki [2:07:07]: Charles reported on Senator Moriwaki’s focus on the capital improvement program (CIP) budget and shared the newsletter.
• Newsletter: https://hicapitol-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/c_izumoto_capitol_hawaii_gov1/IQBJ29T7adbhSqTmqfxyKBHuAZrS1VKNaoFHPcI8B3W0RBo?e=u9aZeQ

9. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS [2:08:35]

Next Meeting: The McCully-Mōʻiliʻili Neighborhood Board No. 8 will recess its May 2026 meeting and hold its next regular meeting on Monday, June 29, 2026 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: 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.

10. ADJOURNMENT [2:08:46]: Chair Lee adjourned the meeting at 8:24 p.m.

Submitted by: Curtis Hayashi, Neighborhood Assistant, Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO)
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO)
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.