WAIKĪKĪ NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 9

REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M.
WAIKĪKĪ COMMUNITY CENTER
310 PAOAKALANI AVENUE, HONOLULU, HI 96815
HYBRID MEETING
PRESENTERS USING PROJECTION MUST BRING EQUIPMENT ONLY AGENDA PRESENTERS MAY SCREEN SHARE DURING MEETING

Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=m2138b1440f1f29820d7c892b39201129
Meeting Number / Access Code: 2492 497 4001
Password: NB09 (6209 from phones and video systems)
Join by Phone: +1-408-418-9388 United States Toll

Meeting Materials: Find an archive of handouts and referenced materials for Neighborhood Board No.9 at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U5LqhO7cjTWUAsZeSiesn99MJa87ouZE

Recordings of Board Meetings can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice

Rules of Speaking: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to raise their hand, and when recognized by the Chair, to address comments to the Chair. Speakers are allowed two (2) minutes, and those giving reports are urged to keep their reports under three (3) minutes. Please silence all electronic devices.

Note: The Board may take action on any agenda item. As required by the State Sunshine Law (HRS 92), specific issues not noted on this agenda cannot be voted on, unless added to the agenda.

Privacy: This meeting is being recorded for future telecast. Comments made will be part of the video presentation.

I. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Robert Finley

II. VOTE TO FILL VACANCY IN SUB DISTRICT 2 (DABBS RESIGNATION)

III. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS
a. Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) on incidents/statistics and safety tips (HFDNHB@honolulu.gov) – Waikīkī Captain
b. Honolulu Police Department (HPD) on incidents/statistics and safety tips (https://www.honolulupd.org/contact-us/) – Duty Officer
c. Board of Water Supply (BWS) written report if necessary – Dominic Dias

IV. CITIZENS CONCERNS NOT COVERED IN REGULAR AGENDA

V. UNFINISHED BUSINESS. FINAL LEGISLATIVE REPORT
a. 2026 Legislative Report Update
b. Leadership reorganization of the Public Safety and Civil Defense Committee
c. Formation of the 2027 State and City Legislation Engagement Committee

VI. OAHU SCHEDULE OF MAJOR PARADES AND STREET EVENTS
Times reflect official street closure times from the Honolulu Department of Transportation for closure of Kalākaua Avenue or areas around Kapiʻolani Park. HPD and others may start road closures about 30 minutes prior
a. Saturday, May 23, 2026 1:30 p.m. – Midnight, Kanikapila Festival
b. Friday, June 5, 2026 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run
c. Friday, June 12, 2026 5:30 p.m. – Midnight, 43rd Annual Pan Pacific Hoolaulea
d. Saturday, June 13, 2026 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., King Kamehameha Floral Parade
e. Sunday, June 14, 2026 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. 43rd Annual Pan Pacific Parade

VII. APPLICATIONS FOR LIQUOR LICENSE

VIII. ELECTED OFFICIALS OR OFFICIALS’ REPRESENTATIVES
Officials will provide a briefing on current events that impact the Waikiki Neighborhood, Board will not vote on any presentation.
a. Mayor’s Representative on constituent concerns and highlights from Mayor’s newsletter – Director of Human Resources Nola Miyasaki on constituent concerns and highlights from Mayor’s Newsletter (https://www8.honolulu.gov/mayor/contact-the-mayor/)
b. Council Member Tommy Waters on constituent concerns, highlights from newsletter, and other activities. (tommy.waters@honolulu.gov, https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district4)
c. Senator Sharon Moriwaki on constituent concerns and highlights from newsletter (senmoriwaki@capitol.hawaii.gov, https://www.sharonmoriwaki.com/)
d. Representative Adrian Tam on constituent concerns and highlights from newsletter
(reptam@capitol.hawaii.gov, https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/legislature/memberpage.aspx?member=132&year=2026)
e. Governors Representative Yvonne Hunter on constituent concerns and highlights from newsletter (https://governor.hawaii.gov/)

IX. WAIKĪKĪ IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION
Presentation to update Waikīkī Neighborhood on Commercial Events that impact the community. The board will not vote on the presentation – Rick Egged

X. NEW BOARD BUSINESS: For Neighbors and Board Members Discussion and vote by Board Members.
a. Waikīkī Business District Association/Safe and Sound update. – Trevor Abarza

XI. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Board Members to vote on corrections and final Minutes.
Corrections to Draft Minutes (unless minor spelling) need to be sent to board members 48 hours prior to the Tuesday, May 12, 2026 meeting.
a. Tuesday May 12, 2026 drafted meeting minutes.

XII. REPORTS (Limited to three (3) minutes each)
a. Sub district 1 Report – Merz
b. Sub district 2 Report – Anderson
c. Sub district 3 Report – Henski
d. Chair Report

XIII. ANNOUNCEMENTS
The next regular meeting will be on Tuesday, June 9 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Waikīkī Community Center 310 Paoakalani Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815

XIV. ADJOURNMENT

View this meeting on Olelo Channel 49 at 9:00 p.m. on the 4th Tuesday each month, and at 6:00 a.m. on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month. View on line at:

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, Hawaiʻi 96817; Telephone (808) 768-3710 Fax (808) 768-3711; or call (808) 768-3710 or e-mail nco@honolulu.gov . Agendas and minutes are also available on the internet at www.honolulu.gov/nco.

All written testimony must be received in the Neighborhood Commission Office 48 hours prior to the meeting. If within 48 hours, 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, Hawaiʻi 96817. Fax: (808) 768-3711. Email: nbtestimony@honolulu.gov.

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
TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2026 at 6:00 P.M.
WAIKĪKĪ COMMUNITY CENTER – 310 PAOAKALANI AVENUE, HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI, 96815
AND VIA WEBEX TELECONFERENCING

Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bznHDDCpv9Q

Reports and other meeting materials can be found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U5LqhO7cjTWUAsZeSiesn99MJa87ouZE

I. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:10]: Chair Robert Finley called the Waikīkī Neighborhood Board No. 9 regular meeting to order at 6:02 p.m.

Quorum was established with 14 members present. Note – This 17-member Board requires 9 members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action. Board members must be in-person or have video access.

Board Members Present: Reine Ah Moo, Jillian Anderson, Rolf Nordahl, Lisa Cabanero, Louis Erteschik, Melissa Filek, Robert Finley, Kathryn Henski, Tim Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, Jeff Merz, Nate Serota, and Shannon Smith.

Board Members Absent: Cory D’ Orazio and Sarah Worth.

Guests: Captain K. Abaya (Honolulu Fire Department); Major Paul Okamoto (Honolulu Police Department); Patrick Smith, Chair of the Neighborhood Commission; Director Nola Miyasaki (Mayor’s Representative); Office of Council Chair Tommy Waters; Alex Ozawa (Senator Sharon Moriwaki); Representative Adrian Tam; Rick Egged (Waikīkī Improvement Association); Gregory Misakian (via WebEx), Midori Trent (via WebEx) Kevin Lye (via WebEx), Wesley Frysztacki (via WebEx), Alexander Ozawa (via WebEx), Geisa (via WebEx); Anna Paige Bruner, Caroline Brimblecombe, Jacob Wiencek, Eric Cunningham, John Deutzman, Tim Garry, Richard Byron, Tara Malia Gregory, Nathaniel Li, David Chung, Dave Willard, and Benjamin Sadoski (Residents); and Anson Wu (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible. There were approximately 31 total participants.

[00:00:15] – Chair Finley noted that the presentation Saratoga Tower Project has been postponed.

[00:02:33] – Chair Finley moved up City Monthly Report.

II. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS – [0:02:41]

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – [0:02:55]: Captain K. Abaya provided the March 2026 statistics and April 2026 safety tip and highlighted the following:
· March 2026 statistics: 1 structure fire, 1 nuisance call, 3 cooking fires, 32 activated alarms with no fire, 175 medical alarms, 1 motor vehicle crash/collision, 1 ocean rescue, and 2 hazardous materials incidents.
· April 2026 safety tip: Evacuation planning. Residents should have an emergency preparedness plan in place, know at least two escape routes from their home, sign up for notifications at hnlert.gov, and prepare a go-bag with essential items.
· Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IE-NP0q36bs9Fp_-VvXqWmgZkAgXWmZv/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:03:16]
1. Elevator Rescues/Condominium Issues: Resident Misakian asked whether elevator rescues are included in the statistics and raised concerns about an improperly installed fire alarm panel at his condominium at 430 Keoniāna Street, which frequently shows trouble alerts during high humidity or rain due to weatherproofing deficiencies, and about elevator permit issues at the same building. Captain Abaya confirmed elevator rescues are not included in the published statistics and agreed to schedule a visit to the building to assess the alarm system.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – [0:10:20]: Major Paul Okamoto provided the March 2026 statistics and highlighted the following:
· March 2026 Statistics: 3 robberies; 5 burglaries; 166 thefts; 13 unauthorized entry motor vehicles; 43 assaults; 7 sex crimes; 3 bike/skateboard on sidewalk citations; 11 speeding citations; 2,520 parking citations (previous: 1,968); 16 loud muffler citations; 65 park closure citations, 15 arrests; 4,356 total calls for service; and 10 Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:11:51]
1. Homeless Encampment Update: Filek asked about updates on the Fort DeRussy homeless encampment. Major Okamoto reported the area is primarily state-owned with a possible federal component. HPD is working to obtain a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to allow enforcement of revised ordinances. A state cleanup was conducted last week and HPD followed up with enforcement, but tents returned. He noted they are close to a solution and that addressing peddling near the Friday night Hilton Village fireworks is also contingent on the MOA.
2. Updates from Last Month: Major Okamoto issued several dozen citations for food trucks on Liliʻaokalani and Prince Edward Street. Amplified music operations along Kalākaua resulted in approximately 8–12 citations and a felony drug arrest. A separate peddling operation yielded multiple citations and a felony drug arrest. Regarding the encampment near the Kapahulu Library/Ala Wai, HPD is coordinating with District 7 and will deploy ATV teams shortly.
3. Statistical Report Copy: Henski asked whether the written statistical report distributed to board members would resume. Major Okamoto apologized and committed to emailing it.
4. Skate Board Laws: Bruner asked what the specific law governing skateboards, noting four staff members had been cited in different locations—the Ala Wai bicycle lane, the roadway, and sidewalks—with officers giving conflicting information. Major Okamoto committed to providing a definitive skateboard code update at the next meeting.
5. Homeless Issue: Bruner asked what resources a small business can contact for homeless individuals in crisis rather than calling police. She shared an example where she helped a homeless woman obtain an ID and purchased a plane ticket home. He noted that during sweeps, service referrals are always offered, but most individuals refuse shelter.
6. Surveillance and Safety Camera Concern: Bruner expressed concerns on the police camera program for businesses, which allows HPD to have access to cameras feed from business in case of emergencies. Major Okamoto clarified the camera access program is entirely voluntary.
7. Bus Blocking Sidewalk: Garry raised concern about buses parking right up to the crosswalk on Kapahulu Avenue near the Honolulu Zoo, blocking pedestrian sight lines and posing a safety hazard for families with children. Major Okamoto committed to contacting the bus operators.
8. Skate Board and Bicycle Laws: Merz echoed the concerns about skateboard law and alternative transportation, noting he was once incorrectly told to ride his bicycle on the sidewalk in Waikīkī. He asked Major Okamoto to provide the specific traffic code citation at the next meeting.
9. CORE (Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement): Seorta noted to the board and community to the CORE program and will provide Bruner CORE contact information.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [0:28:57]: Chair Finely noted he did not received a report from BWS.

III. MESSAGE FROM THE NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION – [0:29:05]

Patrick Smith, Chair of the Neighborhood Commission, introduced himself along with Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) Executive Secretary Lloyd Yonenaka and briefly described the commission’s role as a volunteer body working in partnership with the NCO. He reported that the commission has nearly completed its island-wide review of board geographical boundaries, with most boards satisfied with their current configurations. The commission has also fully rewritten its complaints procedure to provide more options and a more streamlined process for addressing concerns, with the revised procedure nearly ready to go out to public hearings pending review. Additionally, the commission is undertaking a broader review of the plan governing how boards are run, including whether a treasurer position should remain a requirement, with Vice Chair Larry Veray leading that effort. Smith reminded the board that the NCO can assist with difficult-to-fill subdistrict vacancies by making seats at-large, and can help facilitate joint meetings or town halls between boards on shared issues.

IV. VOTE TO FILL VACANCY IN SUB DISTRICT 2 – [0:33:00]

Chair Finley recalled that at the last meeting two candidates had sought to fill the Sub District 2 vacancy. He reported that one candidate, Bulla Eastman, had contacted him and confirmed he was withdrawing. Anna Bruner and Jacob Wiencek volunteered to fill the vacancy for subdistrict 2.

[0:39:06] – Henski nominated Anna Bruner.

[0:39:36] – Chair Finley called a brief recess. Chair Finley clarified the procedure of filling of the vacancy.

[0:40:14] – Anderson NOMINATED Jacob Wiencek. Both candidates were given time to provide information about themselves. Hearing no further nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote; 6-8 (Bruner: Ah Moo, Nordahl, Cabanero, Filek, Henski, and Smith; Wiencek: Anderson, Erteschik, Finley, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, Merz, and Serota) – [0:44:46]

[0:46:41] – Chair Finley deferred to the May 2026 meeting, due to quorum vote not being met.

V. CITIZENS CONCERNS NOT COVERED IN REGULAR AGENDA – [0:47:20]

Bail Reform Defeat: Deutzman reported that House Bill 2413 (bail reform/pre-trial release) was defeated in the Senate earlier that day in a vote of 16–9, which he described as highly unusual. He credited the board’s advocacy and the work of Senator Moriwaki and Representative Tam in opposing the bill.

Vacant Lot Tax Resolution: Vanderbrink asked Chair Finley to consider placing on a future agenda a resolution supporting a tax surcharge on vacant or abandoned lots to encourage developers to build or sell, referencing the well-known vacant property at Seaside and Kūhiō. He noted such lots exist in multiple Honolulu neighborhoods.

Non-Working Bathrooms: Garry briefly noted to Council Chair Waters that the bathrooms near the meeting location are still not functioning.

Legislative Advocacy / Blight Laws: Misakian reported he has been testifying extensively at the state legislature this session and will host a legislative recap event at the State Capitol on May 27, 2026 through the Kokua Council. He expressed support for Vanderbrink’s request but noted that what Waikīkī more urgently needs is effective blight legislation. He also requested that the Sub District 2 roll call vote be read back for the record, as it was difficult to hear remotely. Chair Finley noted the results would appear in the minutes.

Large Development Projects Displacing Local Businesses: Bruner echoed Vanderbrinks remarks and described how large development projects approved in Waikīkī are replacing buildings that once housed small, affordable spaces for local businesses with structures only mainland corporations can afford to rent—contrary to the Waikīkī Special District bylaws requiring a Hawaiian sense of place. She urged the board to require new projects to include smaller commercial spaces accessible to local businesses and requested for moped parking

Worker Transportation Infrastructure Inequities: Cunningham noted that while working-class people are being cited for riding skateboards, construction workers from across the island are parking at Kapi’olani Park and riding scooters on Kalākaua to reach job sites. He characterized this as a misalignment of community priorities.

VI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS – [0:57:20]

Senate Bill (SB) 2367 Relating to State Boating Facilities – [0:58:04]: Anderson reported that SB 2367 passed third reading in the House today and is headed to conference. In its current form, the bill requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to hold open public meetings before and during development of a master plan for state small boat harbors, including the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor, and to finalize that plan. The primary introducer is Senator Sharon Moriwaki which will ensure public access to the shoreline for residents and visitors and encouraging DLNR to consider a report done by the University of Hawaii’s Design Center Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor Vision Report. Anderson noted the public input period for testimony has ended so a vote is not needed.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:59:39]
1. Support with Reservations: Erteschik expressed support for the bill as its current form. He acknowledged his prior opposition to privatizing the Ala Wai but noted the current form—requiring a master plan and community input before further action—is non-controversial and worth supporting, even though he is skeptical another master plan will produce results without teeth for implementation. He noted that there is some time left to write to the conferees.
2. Support SB 2367: Merz in inclined in supporting the bill but is worried about a master plan and questioned if a master plan has been finalized or is underway. Erteschik is also unsure a master plan has been made.

[1:03:29] – Merz MOVED and Nordahl SECONDED to support SB 2367 relating to State Boating Facilities.
Discussion followed

1. Need for Community Engagement: Ah Moo suggested the board should form a committee and invite public input rather than voting alone
2. Support SB 2367: Henski noted that given the longstanding community interest in the Ala Wai harbor, which had previously drawn 50–60 attendees to board meetings, she expressed strong support for moving forward.
3. Comments from Misakian: Misakian agreed Ah Moo’s comments, noted the difficulty of participating remotely in legislative advocacy, and suggested to send input to legislators. He commented on SB 2591 (garbage truck noise), noting it did not proceed to the House Judiciary Committee, died in session, and was improperly drafted by omitting scout trucks—a major source of early-morning noise.
4. Meeting Materials Link: Misakian noted that the regular meeting materials link was returning no content.

[1:07:50] – Hearing no further discussion. The board conducted a roll call vote, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 11-0-3 (AYE: Anderson, Nordahl, Carbanero, Erteschik, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, Merz, and Serota; NAY: None ABSTAIN: Ah Moo, Filek, and Smith).

House Bill (HB)1588 Relating to Department of Transportation – [1:09:03]: Anderson reported that this bill—previously voted to support by the board—passed third reading in the Senate today by a vote of 20–5. The primary introducer is Representative Adrian Tam. Some concern was raised during Senate deliberation regarding Fourth Amendment and privacy issues. The board is already on record supporting this bill; no further vote was taken.

HB 2375 – Relating to Towing Practices – [1:09:50]: Anderson reported that HB 2375 was deferred in the Senate Committee on Ways and Means on Thursday April 9, 2026 and is no longer moving. This bill would have established a working group to review towing practices, particularly at the Ala Wai Harbor (citation vs. tow-first policies). The board never took an official position. Erteschik noted a related Senate Concurrent Resolution 58 that requests DLNR adopt a citation-first policy at the Ala Wai, and suggested Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs (DCCA) opposition to the working group approach may have contributed to the deferral. Erteschik also questioned why SB 2591 was not heard by the House of Judiciary but hopes that the City will find a solution.

HB 1797 – Relating to Autonomous Vehicle Operation – [1:12:42]: Anderson noted this bill was placed on the agenda in error as it does not relate to Waikīkī. The bill was halted in the legislative process in February.

HB 2413 – Relating to Pre-Trial Reform – [1:12:56]: Anderson reported that HB 2413 failed in a vote on the Senate floor today and is no longer moving this session. The bill would have required release on recognizance for a series of crimes. The board voted in February to oppose the bill and provided written testimony in opposition.

SB 2591 – Relating to Noise (Garbage Truck Restrictions) – [1:13:14]: Anderson confirmed SB 2591 is no longer moving this session. The bill would have restricted the use of garbage trucks in Waikīkī before 6:00 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m. It made it through three committees but was not heard in House Judiciary.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:13:32]
1. HB 1588 and SB 2591 Comments: Misakian noted support for HB 1588 and reiterated that SB 2591 was improperly drafted because it omitted scout/service trucks which is the primary source of early-morning noise disruption in his neighborhood.
2. Legislative Committee: Chair Finley noted he will propose to form a committee early on in preparation for the next session. Huycke suggested that by the next meeting, the board discuss forming a committee of approximately five people to monitor legislative issues year-round—before session begins—and transition to a bill position-taking function once session starts. Chair Finley will look into it.

VII. OAHʻU SCHEDULE OF MAJOR PARADES AND STREET EVENTS – [1:17:15]

Chair Finley noted that all times reflect official street closure times; actual setup and teardown may occur approximately 30 minutes before and after. The following events are scheduled:
· Saturday, April 25, 2026, 1:30 p.m. – Midnight: Waikīkī Spam Jam Street Festival
· Saturday, May 2, 2026, 6:00 a.m. – Noon: 46th Annual Visitor Industry Charity Walk
· Saturday, May 23, 2026, 1:30 p.m. – Midnight: Kanikapila Festival
· Monday, May 25, 2026 (Memorial Day), Evening: Shinnyo Lantern Floating, Ala Moana Beach Park (not in Waikīkī, but expected to impact Waikīkī traffic)
· Friday, June 5, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.: Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run

VIII. APPLICATIONS FOR LIQUOR LICENSE – [1:19:20]

Chair Finley noted the following liquor license applications:
· Bacchus Waikīkī, 1682 Kalākaua Avenue, Suite 101 – Special License, Wednesday, March 25, 2026 – Thursday, April 2, 2026
· Davy’s Evolution, 444 Kanekapolei Street – Special License, Friday, May 1, 2026 – Saturday, October 31, 2026
· Capitol Grille, 2380 Kūhiō Avenue, Suite 105 – Special License, Friday, May 1, 2026 – Monday, November 30, 2026
· Tuesday, May 12, 2026 Hearing: Aloha Amigo Island Mexican Cantina / Peppermint Café, 2200 Kūhiō Avenue – Category 2 License

IX. ELECTED OFFICIALS OR OFFICIALS’ REPRESENTATIVES – [1:20:51]

Mayor’s Representative – [1:21:08]: Nola Miyasaki provided the report and highlighted the following: the city is continuing cleanup and recovery efforts following the Kona Low storms, with a recovery website launched at www.oneoahu.org and the Mayor’s town hall meetings indefinitely postponed while the administration focuses on storm response. From the Mayor’s newsletter, she noted that the Honolulu Police Commission is inviting public input to guide selection of the next Honolulu Police Chief, and Bill 60, designed to extend rail service further into the city. Providing follow-up responses from the March 2026 meeting, Miyasaki reported that the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) has migrated active projects to HNL Build and asks Misakian to supply a permit application number for follow-up; that Department of Transportation Services (DTS) has instructed Oahu Transit Services to remind bus operators to park legally at the Kapahulu Avenue terminus, with violations reportable to thebusstopp@honolulu.gov; and that the Mayor has funded Complete Streets to the extent possible, though the budget may change significantly given the Kona Low storms. Emergency Management Services (EMS) asked that Steiner provide the date, time, and location of the ambulance wait time incident so that EMS can conduct a specific review.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:28:46]
1. Bus App Changes: Erteschik asked about the new city transit app, which appears to have removed the ability to search by a specific bus stop number. He had received emails from others experiencing the same confusion.
2. DPP Phone Access / Permit Issues: Misakian reported continued inability to reach DPP by phone and offered to demonstrate the issue. He raised concerns about projects at his condominium proceeding without proper permits and with unlicensed workers. He also raised concerns about the Biki Bikes program, reporting that a news segment indicated approximately a 50% reduction in available bikes and the potential of the program failing. He raised the ongoing issue of early-morning noise from scout/service trucks. He also raised concerns about not dredging waterways in preparation of a storm
3. Bus App Clarification: Vanderbrink clarified that the Transit app’s paid subscription (which DTS had been covering) is being retired, but the free version remains available. The website hea.thebus.org will remain available for bus stop lookups.
4. Flooding and Flood Plains: Garry questioned whether residents in known flood areas should be permitted to rebuild in the same flood plains

Council Chair Tommy Waters – [1:39:22]: Council Chair Tommy Waters provided his report and highlighted the following: he presented two commendations to Solomon Kaimimoku and Chair Robert Finley. Waters reported that he recently spent over an hour with Major Okamoto, noting his openness to proactive enforcement measures, and discussed the ongoing need for peddling enforcement, the proposal to activate dormant Waikīkī cameras, repair broken ones, deploy mobile camera trailers from the police warehouse, and the success of a similar mobile camera trailer at Makapu’u Point that reduced smash-and-grabs from approximately 200 incidents over six months to zero. Waters proposed placing a high-quality portable restroom on Waikīkī Beach funded through the parks budget, noting the nearest known public restroom is at the police station and is too far for most beachgoers. He concluded by noting that the Kona Low storms are expected to cost the city between $50 and $100 million in emergency repairs and overtime, that the current budget will likely change substantially, and that he is exploring redirecting approximately $400,000 in lapsed unspent city funds toward storm preparedness, mitigation, and stream cleaning island wide.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:53:27]
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration and Road Maintenance: Wiencek suggested that integrating AI technology into city government processes could reduce staffing redundancies and improve efficiency, particularly given current budget pressures and storm recovery demands. He also noted the severe pothole conditions on city roads following the Kona Low storms, commending the budget’s focus on infrastructure maintenance and urging that road repair remain a priority.
2. Portable Restroom Support: Huycke expressed enthusiastic support for the portable restroom proposal, calling it embarrassing that one of the world’s top tourist destinations lacks adequate public restrooms.
3. Spider-Man / Character Costume Scams: Deutzman described scams by individuals dressed as Marvel and Disney characters who charge tourists (particularly Japanese visitors) for photos. He suggested contacting Disney’s legal team, as the characters are trademarked. Waters confirmed Major Okamoto is aware and plans a sting operation, noting it constitutes to peddling and copy-right infringement.
4. Monster Home / Permit Irregularities: Patrick Smith raised a concern about a revoked building permit in Pacific Heights that inexplicably appeared reissued under a new number without a formal board of appeals hearing. Waters confirmed he has encountered similar DPP irregularities and invited Smith to share his address and contact information.
5. SB 2423 – Minimum Lot Size: Waters noted he had written to all neighborhood boards about SB 2423, which would have allowed homeowners by right to subdivide lots to a minimum of 2,500 sq. ft. Neighborhood boards spoke up, the introducer was contacted, and the bill was pulled.
6. Beauty Lotion / Skincare Scams: Filek described businesses near the Marriott that solicit tourists on sidewalks, bring them inside, and charge their credit cards far beyond agreed amounts. Waters stated he would ask Major Okamoto to conduct a sting operation.
7. Camera Quality: Vanderbrink reported from a prior HPD ride-along that many cameras in Waikīkī are non-functional and those that do work have resolution too low to identify license plates. He requested funding for camera quality upgrades.
8. Lifeguard Safety and Legal Protections: Gregory raised concerns about a lifeguard who was wrongly detained by police during an incident. She asked about protections for lifeguards. Waters noted discussions with head lifeguard Kurt about legislation to elevate assault on a lifeguard to a felony (currently a misdemeanor), and efforts to restore immunity protections for lifeguards acting in the line of duty—a bill Waters had previously passed that expired.
9. Emergency Preparedness for Kona Low Storms: Gregory asked about the emergency preparedness plan given an emergency proclamation was issued four days before the storms hit. Waters described the Department of Emergency Management’s Comprehensive and Local Hazard Mitigation Plans and referenced an executive management committee hearing he chaired that scrutinized why the emergency operations center was not activated until 11:00 p.m. on the night of flooding, when the area was already known to be at risk.
10. Moped Parking and Permanent Public Restroom: Bruner urged the council not to ticket moped riders without first providing alternatives, proposing that chevron-marked spaces at the ends of metered parking stalls could create approximately 214 unmetered moped spots across Waikīkī. She further suggested the city consider renting small permanent commercial spaces along Kalākaua and Kūhiō as staffed, properly maintained public restrooms rather than relying on porta-potties.
11. Resilience Hubs / Emergency Infrastructure: Garry restated his concern whether residents in known flood areas should be permitted to rebuild in the same flood plains and agrees with Water’s idea of having a secure site with emergency provisions. Council Chair Waters discussed the need for designated resilience hubs in every district island wide, noting that schools often used as emergency shelters are structurally inadequate for hurricane conditions. Waters noted he will be reviewing post-event reports and prior disaster response plans, including the tsunami warning response, to identify improvements.
12. DPP Issues and Biki Bikes: Misakian reiterated concerns about DPP misconduct and permit irregularities and raised concerns about Biki Bikes potentially failing (citing a 50% reduction in available bikes and a news report suggesting a 50% chance of program failure), suggested converting some Biki docking stations to accommodate mopeds and private bicycles with a small metered charge.

Senator Sharon Moriwaki’s Representative – [2:20:04]: Alex Ozawa provided the report and highlighted the following: noted that the legislature is entering conference season following a busy morning in which the Senate passed its budget along with over 100 other bills on third reading. The senator’s office is advocating at conference for grant funding for local nonprofits in the district and is hard at work preparing for the conference committee process. Ozawa invited any questions or concerns for him to relay to the senator.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:20:52]
1. SB 2591 Concerns: Misakian expressed concern that SB 2591 (garbage truck noise bill) was improperly drafted from the outset, noting the original version contained a blank for the gross weight threshold and excluded scout trucks. He requested Ozawa convey to Senator Moriwaki the need to address all vehicles causing early-morning noise disruption. Ozawa acknowledged the concerns, explained the blank weight number was left intentionally to invite expert input, and noted the HHS Senate committee amended the bill’s scope to Waikīkī only (from the city and county).

Representative Adrian Tam – [2:27:21]: Representative Adrian Tam announced a Town Hall for Urban Honolulu to be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Washington Middle School, featuring himself, Senator Moriwaki, Council Members Scott Nishimoto and Tyler Dos Santos Tam, Representative Ikaika Olds, and Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto. He highlighted House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) 43, a concurrent resolution urging the Department of Transportation Services to install raised crosswalks near Ala Wai Elementary School to improve pedestrian safety for children and families.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:29:46]
1. Teacher Housing/Affordable: Henski asked Representative Tam to investigate whether housing—possibly teacher or affordable housing—is planned for Jefferson Elementary School property, which is within the district. Filek asked if Tam can look into who did the presentation as well.
2. SB 2591 and Blight Legislation: Misakian reiterated that SB 2591 was a bad bill for failing to address scout trucks and formally requested Representative Tam introduce blight legislation, legislation addressing storm water runoff infrastructure, and ensure a public-input legislative committee process before the next session begins.

Governor’s Representative – [2:34:07]: No representative present.

X. WAIKĪKĪ IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (WIA) – [2:34:17]

Rick Egged of the Waikīkī Improvement Association provided his report and highlighted the following he announced that he will retire as President of the Waikīkī Improvement Association effective Tuesday, June 30, 2026, after 27 years of service beginning in 1999. He invited the community to the WIA’s annual Earth Day beach cleanup this Saturday, April 19, 2026 starting at 7:00 a.m., noting that refreshments and equipment are provided and that trolleys transport volunteers to both ends of the beach to work their way back picking up trash. Egged noted that while he appreciates the positive attention to the Waikīkī Business Improvement District (WBID), credit belongs to the Waikīkī business community, which created and funds the WBID through their own tax contributions. He concluded by noting that Waikīkī was the first business improvement district in the state, made possible because the businesses saw similar districts working well in other cities and pushed for the enabling legislation at both the state and city levels.

XI. NEW BOARD BUSINESS

Saratoga Tower Project, a Condo-Hotel/Commercial building to be built between Saratoga, Kalakaua and Beachwalk: This item was postponed.

XII. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – [2:36:28]

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 Meeting Minutes – [2:36:38]: Smith proposed corrections to the minutes.
[2:37:38] – Hearing no further corrections or objections, the Tuesday, January 13, 2026 meeting minutes WERE ADOPTED with amendments; 14-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Carbanero, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).

Tuesday, February 10, 2026 Meeting Minutes – [2:38:30]:
[2:38:34] – Hearing no corrections or objections, the board conducted a show of hands. The Tuesday, February 10, 2026 meeting minutes WERE ADOPTED as written; 14-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Carbanero, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:38:47]

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Meeting Minutes – [2:38:52]:
[2:38:57] – Hearing no corrections and objections, the board conducted a show of hands. The Tuesday, March 10, 2026 meeting minutes WERE ADOPTED as written; 14-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Carbanero, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:39:04]

XIII. REPORTS

Sub District 1 Report – Merz: This item was skipped.

Sub District 2 Report – Anderson: This item was skipped.

Sub District 3 Report – Henski: This item was skipped.

Chair Report: This item was skipped.

XIV. ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:39:34]

Next Meeting – [2:39:36]: The next regular meeting will be on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Waikīkī Community Center, 310 Paoakalani Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815.

XV. ADJOURNMENT – [2:59:40]: Chair Finley adjourned the meeting at 8:57 p.m.

Submitted by: Anson Wu, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, NCO
Finalized by: Melissa Filek, Waikiki Neighborhood Board Secretary

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.