WAIKĪKĪ NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 9

REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 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) – Residents interested must provide current proof of residency or contact Neighborhood Assistant Anson Wu (anson.wu@honolulu.gov) in advance.

III.CITY MONTHLY REPORTS
a.Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) on incidents/statistics and safety tips (HFDNHB@honolulu.gov) – Waikiki 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)

IV.CITIZENS CONCERNS NOT COVERED IN REGULAR AGENDA

V. OAHU SCHEDULE OF MAJOR PARADES AND STREET EVENTS
Times reflect official street closure times from the Honolulu Department of Transportation for closure of Kalakaua Avenue or areas around Kapiolani Park. HPD and others may start road closures about 30 minutes prior
a. Wednesday, April 8, 2026 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Salute to Youth Parade
b. Saturday, April 25, 2026 1:30 p.m. – Midnight, Waikiki Spam Jam Street Festival
c. Saturday, May 2, 2026 6:00 a.m. – Noon, 46th Annual Visitor Industry Charity Walk
d. Saturday, May 23, 2026 1:30 p.m. – Midnight, Kanikapila Festival

VI. APPLICATIONS FOR LIQUOR LICENSE
a. Hearing on Thursday, April 2, 2026 Bacchus Waikīkī, 408 Lewers Street, Cat 3

VII. 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/)

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

IX.NEW BOARD BUSINESS: For Community and Board Members Discussion and vote by Board Members.
a.Bus Lane and related Kūhiō Avenue Traffic Issues – City Department of Transportation
b. Legislature Update
Board Members should review status of the following at the Legislature Web Site prior to the March Meeting

HB1650Relating to Environmental Assessments
HB1588Relating to Department of Transportation
HB2375 Relating to Towing Practices
HB1652 Relating to Storm Water Management
SB2714 Relating to Cellular Towers – Update
HB1797 Relating to Autonomous Vehicle Operation
HB2413 Relating to Pre Trial Reform
HB2197 Relating to Property – Update
HB2002 Relating to Neighborhood Safety – Update
SB2591 Relating to Noise – Update
HB1588 Relating to Department of Transportation
HB1679 Relating to Condominiums
SB2838 Relating to Condominiums
SB2367 Relating to State Boat Harbors
HB1650 Relating to Environmental Assessments
SB2557 Relating to Homelessness – Update
HB1626 Relating to Youth Penalties – Update
SB2540 Relating to Youth Penalties – Update

c. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Plans for future Airspace usage – Chad Wasden

X. 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, March 10, 2026 meeting.
a. Tuesday January 13, 2026 Meeting
b.Tuesday, February 10, 2026 meeting

XI.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

XII.ANNOUNCEMENTS
The next regular meeting will be on Tuesday April 14, 2026, 6:00p.m. at Waikīkī Community Center 310 Paoakalani Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815

XIII.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, FEBRUARY 10, 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=tvRRrlnqd08

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

I. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:01]: Chair Robert Finley called the Waikīkī Neighborhood Board No. 9 regular meeting to order at 6:02 p.m.

Quorum was established with 13 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, Cory D’Orazio, Louis Erteschik, Melissa Filek, Robert Finley, Tim Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Shannon Smith, Nate Serota (via WebEx), Sarah Worth (WebEx), Kathryn Henski (6:04 p.m. via WebEx), and Jeff Merz (6:34 p.m. via WebEx).

Board Members Absent: Shotaro Dabbs and Ken Jacob.

Guests: Captain K. Abaya (Honolulu Fire Department); Acting Lieutenant Jared Spiker and Major Paul Okamoto (Honolulu Police Department); Dominic Dias (Board of Water Supply); Director Nola Miyasaki (Mayor’s Representative); Adam Doo (Office of Council Chair Tommy Waters, via WebEx); Senator Sharon Moriwaki Representative (via WebEx); Representative Adrian Tam; Ivonne Hunter (Governor’s Representative); Rick Egged (Waikīkī Improvement Association); Leny Chavez and Paola Machan (Carollo Engineers); Kate Thompson; Linda Dewey, Geisa Asachi, Bulla Eastman, John Chang, Denise Boisvert, David Chung, Caroline Brimblecombe, Ryan Mayalla, Nicole Ancheta, Amy Fuller, Dale Vanderbrink, Della Au Belatti, Linda West, Vincent Yeu, Jacob Wiencek, John Deutzman, Tim Garry, Julia (via WebEx), Mike Buck (via WebEx), Kyra A. (via WebEx), Valerie Haney (via WebEx), Greg Misakian (via WebEx), Corey K. (via WebEx), Shelley Oates-Wilding (via WebEx), Ruzetter Mei Sobrevinas (via WebEx), Chad Wasden, Ariana Pacleb (via WebEx), and Ikechi Nnawuba (via WebEx) (Resident); and Anson Wu (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible. There were approximately 58 total participants.

II. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS – [0:01:58]

Henski arrived to the meeting at (6:04 p.m.); 14 members present.

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – [0:02:09]: Captain K. Abaya reported January 2026 statistics: 3 structure fires, 2 nuisance calls, 1 cooking fire, 11 activated alarms (no fire), 186 medical incidents, 1 motor vehicle collision, and 3 hazardous material incidents. The February safety tip: Call 911 first in an emergency; do not drive to the nearest fire station as the company may be out responding to another call. When calling 911, provide your initial need (police, fire, or EMS) and an accurate description of your need and location. HFD can also receive 911 text messages when voice communication is not available. Contact: hfdnhb@honolulu.gov.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – [0:04:24]: Acting Lieutenant Jared Spiker reported January 2026 statistics compared to December 2025: 3 robberies, 11 burglaries, 115 thefts, 9 motor vehicle break-ins, 31 assault cases, 6 sexual assault cases, 6 bicycle/skateboard sidewalk citations, 23 speeding citations, 1,975 parking citations, 9 loud muffler citations, 81 park closure citations and 32 arrests for park closures, 4,472 total calls for service, and 23 Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests. Major Paul Okamoto noted that recent operations included a loud muffler enforcement effort, a peddling operation, and upcoming UTV/golf cart patrols along Kalākaua Avenue to engage with the community and address homelessness.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:07:14]
1. E-Bikes and Mopeds in Zoo-Area Park: Member Nordahl reported mopeds and e-bikes regularly riding through the triangular park in front of the zoo, typically 3:00 a.m. in the morning or around 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Major Okamoto committed to having officers check the area and acknowledged the challenge of pursuing e-bike riders who may crash if chased.
2. DUI Statistics as Dedicated Line Item: Member Huycke requested that DUI statistics be included as a dedicated line item on the monthly stat sheet. Major Okamoto agreed to explore this formatting change.
3. HPD Crime Analysis Unit and Public Dashboard: Member Huycke asked about HPD’s crime analysis unit and how it informs resource deployment. Major Okamoto confirmed HPD has a dedicated crime analysis unit that generates reports for district commanders and noted the public HPD crime dashboard at honolulu.org for community use; reports are generated at least monthly.
4. HPD Ride-Along Process and Forms: Member Huycke asked about the HPD ride-along process, noting they were told forms could be picked up but were later told they must go to the main station in person. Major Okamoto and Lieutenant Spiker agreed to follow up and directed inquiries to the community affairs division. Member Worth noted one form is available online and a second requires going to the main precinct and requested for the second form
5. Loud Muffler Fines: Member Daniel Jacob raised the ongoing issue of loud muffler enforcement and noted that Senator Sharon Moriwaki passed Act 172 in 2025 raising the first-time offense fine to $150, but Waikīkī signage still shows the old $79 fine and has not been updated. Major Okamoto acknowledged noise is a top complaint, referenced a previous noise working group with city and state partners, and discussed the possibility of strengthening the disorderly conduct statute to better address nighttime noise violations.
6. Officer Safety Concerns Involving Homeless Individuals: Resident Deutzman raised the issue of officer safety, noting eight officers attacked since June 2025 with many defendants being homeless individuals with mental illness. Major Okamoto acknowledged the concern and noted that increasing proactive interactions with homeless individuals increases the risk of violent encounters.
7. Request for Foot Patrols: Resident Wiencek requested increased foot patrols in pairs or small groups throughout Waikīkī, not only on the beach. Major Okamoto noted a recent conversation about foot patrols and confirmed that fourth-watch rookie officers are now being assigned to foot or bicycle patrol.
8. Need for Dedicated Homelessness Agency: Resident Dewey suggested a specialized agency dedicated to homelessness management would help reduce the burden on HPD.
9. Early Morning Trash Pickup Noise Impacting Residents: Resident Misakian (via WebEx) raised the issue of early morning trash pickup noise, occurring between approximately 3:30 a.m.– 6:00 a.m. as an ongoing quality-of-life concern, particularly for kūpuna. He asked HPD to engage with Managing Director Formby’s working group on this issue. Major Okamoto acknowledged awareness of the concern but noted that current legislative tools are insufficient to address it criminally and offered to participate in any working group.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [0:26:05]: Dominic Dias reported no main breaks in January 2026. He announced the BWS Poster (grades K–6) and Poetry (grades 7–12) contests at boardwatersupply.com/wccontest. He noted BWS is in the final stages of its six-year Capital Improvement Program.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:27:15]
1. Monthly Written Report in Lieu of In-Person Attendance: Member Huycke raised the question of whether BWS needed to appear in person each month. Chair Finley explained that there was no vote on it.

[0:27:41] – Huycke MOVED and Worth SECONDED that a monthly written report be sufficient, with in-person attendance only on request. Discussion followed. The board conducted a voice vote, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 14-0-1 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Merz, Serota, Smith, and Worth; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: Finley) – [0:30:05]

Questions, comments, and concerns followed (Continued) – [0:31:19]
1. West Side Desalination Plant Timeline and Funding: Member Huycke asked for an update on the desalination plant on the West Side. Dias confirmed pilot testing successfully matched desalinated water to existing system water quality; permitting is underway with multiple agencies; federal funding is being pursued to offset ratepayer costs; and the operational timeline targets late 2028 to early 2029. He offered to return with more project details as it progresses.
2. McCully Bridge Water Lines and Bike/Pedestrian Path Request: Resident Ruby (via WebEx) asked about the structural issue at McCully Bridge where two water lines cross into Waikīkī and inquired whether DTS could incorporate a bike and pedestrian path over the structure. Dias noted the 100% waterline replacement design was complete but structural issues sent it back to the design phase; he would follow up and noted BWS plans to bring the contractor in April 2026.

Merz arrived to the meeting at (6:34 p.m.); 15 members present.

III. CITIZENS’ CONCERNS NOT COVERED IN REGULAR AGENDA – [0:34:52]

FAA Airspace Restructuring Feedback: Resident Fuller reported that the FAA is restructuring Hawaiʻi’s airspace and seeking public feedback by March 15, requesting that inter-island plane and helicopter routes be pushed further offshore to reduce noise. The Kapahulu, Diamond Head, and Kaimuki boards have already passed resolutions; she offered a flyer and draft resolution for WNB consideration. Member Worth requested the materials be uploaded to the Google Drive.

Beach Shower Improvement Project: Project representative announced a shower improvement initiative covering six beach areas from the Waikīkī Police Station to Kapahulu, focused on eliminating soap and shampoo runoff into the ocean. A community engagement pop-up was planned for the following day at the Hula Mound, with a QR code survey available for resident input.

Broken Bathrooms Near Duke Statue: Resident Ancheta reported that bathrooms near the Duke Kahanamoku statue have been largely closed for three years despite repeated outreach, with a September 2025 repair timeline still unmet. Member Serota acknowledged the frustration and committed to following up, while Resident Garry characterized the situation as an absolute failure of government.

Homelessness and Addiction: Resident Deutzman noted that only 6% of homeless individuals accept help and identified crystal meth addiction as the root cause. He cautioned that increased spending without addressing addiction will not solve the problem.

Worth left the meeting at (6:49 p.m.); 14 members present

Ala Wai Boat Harbor: A resident urged the board to send a letter to Acting DLNR Chair Ryan Kanaka Ole requesting citation-first enforcement and transparent reporting at the Ala Wai Boat Harbor.

Government Inaction on Foot Patrols, Facilities, and Homelessness: Resident Wiencek expressed broad frustration with government inaction on foot patrols, public facility maintenance, and homelessness. He called on officials and stakeholders to take bolder, more proactive action.

Missing Tree Grates and Lighting Hazard at Former King’s Village Site: A resident reported missing tree grates creating tripping hazards and expressed concern about lighting from an open stairwell at the former King’s Village construction site. Member Serota recommended using the 311 app with geotagging to report specific locations to the appropriate city departments.

Illegal Parking on Prince Edward Street Near New Food Court: Resident Adachi reported chronic illegal parking on both sides of Prince Edward Street near a recently opened food court, blocking access to her parking garage at all hours. She urged better enforcement and suggested surveillance cameras and vendor permit conditions addressing no-parking requirements.

Ala Wai Canal Bridge, Setback Enforcement, and Sea Level Rise Concerns: Resident Ruby (via WebEx) raised concerns about the Ala Wai Canal bridge proposal’s impact on parkland, zero build setback enforcement, and overlapping special improvement districts. She also called for buildings to be retrofitted 7 feet above current elevation to address sea level rise.

Urgent Beach Safety Hazards Near Sheraton: Resident Misakian (via WebEx) reported two urgent safety hazards near the Sheraton: exposed large jagged black rocks near the main groin and a sinking walkway in front of the hotel. He requested the board and DLNR address both concerns immediately.

IV. OʻAHU SCHEDULE OF MAJOR PARADES AND STREET EVENTS – [1:01:30]

· Sunday, March 13, 2026: Honolulu Rainbow Ekiden Race (Kapiʻolani Park area), 7:15 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
· Sunday, March 15, 2026: Honolulu Festival Grand Parade, 3:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m. (with fireworks at the end). John Chang, on behalf of the Honolulu Festival (coordinated by Events Extraordinaire), confirmed the parade begins at approximately 4:00 p.m. with road closures starting at 3:30 p.m.
· Tuesday, March 17, 2026: Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.Annual Prince Kūhiō Day Parade
· Saturday, March 1, 2026: King’s Runner 10K – roads close at 5:00 a.m., reopen at 9:00 a.m.
· Saturday, March 28, 2026: Annual National Vietnam Veterans Day Parade, 5:30 p.m.– 8:00 p.m.

V. APPLICATIONS FOR LIQUOR LICENSE – [1:03:22]

· Special liquor license, Tuesday, February 26, 2026 to Thursday, February 26, 2027: Allegrini, 403 Kaʻiolu Street, Beer and Wine.

VI. ELECTED OFFICIALS OR OFFICIALS’ REPRESENTATIVES – [1:04:05]

Honolulu Festival Grand Parade – [1:05:11]: John Chang attended the meeting on behalf of the Honolulu Festival and from Events Extraordinaire is willing to take questions regarding the Honolulu Festival Grand Parade. He noted road closure starts at 3:30 p.m., the event starts at 4:00 p.m., and the event will have fireworks.

Mayor’s Representative – [1:05:56]: Director Nola Miyasaki announced Black History Month and the 175th anniversary of the Honolulu Fire Department. She introduced Jimmy Baros as the new Ocean Safety Deputy Chief, completing the department’s leadership under Chief Kurt Logger. She announced that Summer Fun program applications are open with jobs starting at $17 per hour. She provided responses to questions raised at the January meeting regarding vehicles using Kūhiō Bus Lane; loud street performance; HPD, HFD, and Planning Commission website dissatisfaction; speed limit change on Ala Wai Boulevard; and long wait time for Ambulance services.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:14:22]
1. Kūhiō Bus Lane and Left Turn Arrows: Member Smith asked about the status of a study to install turn signals at intersections along Kūhiō Avenue to address the bus lane problem. Director Miyasaki noted the study is still being process and Chair Finley noted that the Department of Transportation Services is planning to attend March 2026 meeting and he provided DTS with a full list of problem intersections.
2. Bus Lane Issue: Member Huycke clarified that the bus lane concern is not about issuing more citations but about eliminating conditions that force drivers to use the lane. Member Ah Moo asked about the patrol dates. Director Miyasaki confirmed the bus lane patrol dates from Saturday, January 24, 2026 to Friday, January 31, 2026. Member Ah Moo agreed with Member Jacob’s assessment about the purpose of raising the bus lane concern.
3. Urgent Beach Safety Near Sheraton Escalated: Resident Misakian (via WebEx) directed Director Miyasaki’s attention to the two urgent beach safety concerns near the Sheraton (exposed jagged rocks and a sinking walkway) and asked her to follow up with the appropriate agencies.

Council Chair Tommy Waters – [1:21:50]: Adam Du (Council Chair Waters’ office, via WebEx) announced that Chair Waters will announce the following morning a $1 million donation from Hilton Grand Vacations to the Waikīkī Business Improvement District (WBID) to fund revitalization of Kūhiō Beach Park. The announcement will be at 10:30 a.m. in front of the Prince Kūhiō statue and is open to all. He also reported that Bills 64 and 65, sponsored by Chair Waters and signed by the mayor, now require the Budget and Fiscal Services to report on lapsed funds, improving budget transparency and helping the council identify departments leaving money on the table.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:24:49]
1. Bill Support and Oposition: Resident Wiencek expressed strong support for Bills 5 and 6 (affordable housing) and strong opposition to Bill 17 (which he said would gut Bill 7 affordable housing programs), urging Council Chair Waters to not support Bill 17. He also urged the council to allocate budget funding for maintenance of parks, beaches, and public facilities in the upcoming budget cycle.
2. Derelict Property at Kūhiō and Seaside Status Requested: Resident Vanderbrink asked Chair Waters’ office to follow up with DPP on what permits are pending for the derelict property at the corner of Kūhiō and Seaside Avenue. Adam Du agreed to provide a more thorough report.

Senator Sharon Moriwaki’s Representative – [1:27:41]: No representative present, was revisited later in the agenda.

Representative Adrian Tam – [1:28:16]: Representative Tam announced a town hall on Monday, March 2, 2026 at Jefferson School Elementary Library at 6:00 p.m. with Senator Moriwaki, where residents can ask questions about bills and flag additional legislation. He offered to track all bills voted on by the board and provide updates on their progress. He encouraged continued emails to his office regarding legislation.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:29:49]
1. Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) Restructuring: Resident Vanderbrink asked about two bills relating to HTA, one of which would eliminate it and divide functions between DBED and DLNR. Representative Tam explained the bill was amended to remove the DLNR destination management component; the current effort focuses on embedding the tourism function into DBED with a new Office of Tourism Liaison headed by the DBED director to improve coordination with the governor’s cabinet.
2. Support for HB 1612 and HB 1650 Amid Economic Pressures: Resident Wiencek spoke in support of HB 1612 and HB 1650 and urged Representative Tam to continue supporting both bills as Hawaiʻi faces economic pressures and federal uncertainty.
3. Lieutenant Governor Ethics: Resident Garry asked Representative Tam to comment on the ethics of the Lieutenant Governor given recent news reports. Representative Tam acknowledged the reports and expressed support for the ongoing AG investigation, and stated he would support a legislative committee investigation if the AG investigation proves inconclusive.
4. Good Government Caucus: Resident Misakian (via WebEx) raised the Good Government Caucus’s two pending House resolutions regarding a legislative committee investigation and asked Representative Tam’s position. Representative Tam confirmed he would support such a committee investigation if it is warranted.
5. Safe Roads App: Member Filek asked about the ‘Safe Roads’ driving app mentioned in Representative Tam’s newsletter. Representative Tam explained it is a DOT initiative to reduce road fatalities; the app scores driving behavior (phone use, speeding, braking, acceleration) and offers weekly chances to win gift cards for scores above 70.

Senator Sharon Moriwaki’s Representative – [1:40:021]: Senator Moriwaki’s office representative (via WebEx) noted that the session is underway, major bill deadlines are approaching, and Senator Moriwaki was recently on Hawaiʻi News Now discussing session priorities.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:40:53]
1. Lieutenant Governor Bribery Allegations: Resident Misakian (via WebEx) requested the representative convey to Senator Moriwaki his question about whether she supports convening an internal legislative committee investigation into the $35,000 bribery allegations involving the Lieutenant Governor. The representative agreed to ask Senator Moriwaki if her position has changed given the new developments.

Governor’s Representative – [1:43:43]: Ivonne Hunter circulated the governor’s newsletter, noting a strong focus on affordability. She reported that from the $42 million sustainable tourism Green Fee fund, Waikīkī is allocated $7 million, with a potential additional $7 million for Ala Moana Beach Park restoration.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:45:21]
1. Community Calls for Resignation and Investigation: Resident Garry asked Hunter to convey the community’s displeasure with the Lieutenant Governor’s actions, calling for her resignation and an investigation into the Campaign Spending Commission’s failure to detect violations.
2. Slow Investigation Pace Criticized: Resident Deutzman, citing 30 years in television news and 15 years as an investigator, expressed frustration at the slow pace of the investigation and stated the matter should be resolved within a day given available evidence.
3. Acknowledged Campaign Finance Violations: Resident Vanderbrink stated displacement of Lieutenant Governor’s actions and noted the core issue is the Lieutenant Governor’s acknowledged campaign finance violations — accepting two $5,000 checks not disclosed in campaign spending reports.
4. Broader Legislative Ethics Concerns and Campaign Finance Reform: Resident Misakian (via WebEx) broadened concerns to overall legislative ethics, noting attorneys and lobbyists donating to committee chairs who control bill advancement. He urged the governor’s office to support good government and campaign finance reform legislation and asked that the community’s serious concerns be conveyed.

VII. WAIKĪKĪ IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (WIA) – [1:52:50]

Rick Egged reported that Waikīkī commercial property values declined this year — one of the first times he has seen this occur — reflecting the broader economic situation with empty storefronts and the recent closure of DFS. Visitor numbers are down and spending is lower, particularly on shopping. He noted the Waikīkī Business Improvement District won a national award for its homelessness outreach program, which deploys a police officer, social worker, and doctor from Waikīkī Health Center three nights a week. He mentioned plans for another sand replenishment project at Kūhiō Beach and noted the governor’s Green Fee allocation for Waikīkī Beach improvements.

VIII. NEW BOARD BUSINESS – [1:56:47]

A. Review and Formalize Proposed Bills to be considered by the 2026 Legislature – [1:56:51]: Chair Finley acknowledged Members Anderson and Erteschik for preparing the bill list with inputs from Representative Tam, Senator Moriwaki, and Allison Schaefer. The process: Member Anderson would make a motion to support each bill; raising a hand indicates opposition.

Bill 1 – SB 2732/HB 1516 (Relating to Pretrial Release) – [1:59:21]: Withdrawn from consideration. Member Anderson noted it would only change factors relating to income for bail affordability and would not significantly impact Waikīkī.

Bill 2 – Senate Bill (SB) 2557 (Relating to Homelessness) – [1:59:58]:
[2:00:00] – Anderson MOVED and Erteschik SECONDED to support SB 2557. Hearing no discussion and objections, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 14-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:00:48]

Bill 3 – SB 2288 (Relating to Mental Illness) – [2:01:19]:
[2:01:21] – Anderson MOVED Erteschik SECONDED to support SB 2288. Discussion followed. Hearing no objections, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 14-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:04:07]

Bill 4 – SB 2445 (Relating to Pedestrians) – [2:04:27]:
[2:04:29] – Anderson MOVED Erteschik SECONDED to support SB 2445. Hearing no discussion, the board conducted a voice vote. The motion WAS NOT ADOPTED; 3-10-1 (AYE: Erteschik, Daniel Jacob, and Serota; NAY: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, and Smith; ABSTAIN: Merz) – [2:06:29]

Bill 5 – SB 2762 (Relating to Bail) – [2:08:06]:
[2:08:15] – Anderson MOVED Erteschik SECONDED to not take a stance on SB 2762. Hearing no discussion and objections, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 14-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:09:12]

Bill 6 – SB 3208/HB 2413 (Relating to Pre-Trial Reform) – [2:09:24]:
[2:09:26] – Anderson MOVED Erteschik SECONDED to support SB 3208/HB 2413. Discussion followed. The board conducted a roll call vote, the motion WAS NOT ADOPTED; 1-13-0 (AYE: Erteschik; NAY: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:18:23]

Bill 7 – HB 1626 (Relating to Youth Penalties) – [2:19:34]:
[2:19:36] – Anderson MOVED Erteschik SECONDED to support HB 1626. Hearing no discussion, the board conducted a show of hands. The motion WAS NOT ADOPTED; 2-12-0 (AYE: Huycke, and Daniel Jacob; NAY: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Merz, Serota, and Smith; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:20:23]

Bill 8 – HB 2197 (Relating to Property/Squatters) – [2:21:13]:
[2:21:14] – Anderson MOVED Erteschik SECONDED to support HB 2197. Hearing no discussion, the board conducted a show of hands. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 14-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:21:55]

Bill 9 – HB 2390 (Relating to Penalties/Habitual Property Crime) – [2:22:11]:
[2:22:12] – Anderson MOVED Erteschik SECONDED to support HB 2390. Hearing no discussion, the board conducted a show of hands, The motion WAS ADOPTED; 14-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:23:00]

Bill 10 – HB 2002 (Relating to Neighborhood Safety) – [2:23:11]:
[2:23:12] – Anderson MOVED Erteschik SECONDED to support HB 2002. Discussion followed. The board conducted a show of hands, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 13-1-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Daniel Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: Huycke; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:25:41]

Bill 11 – HB 2043 (Relating to Criminal Mischief) – [2:26:00]:
[2:26:01] – Anderson MOVED Erteschik SECONDED to support HB 2043. Hearing no discussion, the board conducted a show of hands. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 14-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:26:51]

Bills 12 – SB 2037 (Relating to Criminal Mischief) – [2:27:09]: Member Anderson suggested to skip SB 2037. Member Smith discussed the problem of attorney fees sometimes equaling or exceeding the underlying delinquent maintenance fees in condo disputes.

[2:29:16] – Anderson MOVED Ah Moo SECONDED to support SB 2037. Discussion followed. The board conducted a show of hands. Chair Finley suggested to skip all the condominium bills. Discussion followed.

[2:37:10] – Finley MOVED and Erteschik SECONDED to skip all the condominium bills and move on to SB 2591. Hearing no discussion, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 13-1-0 (AYE: Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: Ah Moo; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:38:30]

Bill 22 – SB 2591 (Relating to Noise) – [2:39:37]:
[2:39:40] – Anderson MOVED and Erteschik SECONDED to support SB 2591. Discussion followed. The board conducted a roll call vote, the motion WAS NOT ADOPTED; 4-4-5 (AYE: Anderson, D’Orazio, Daniel Jacob, and Serota; NAY: Nordahl, Cabanero, Huycke, and Smith; ABSTAIN: Ah Moo, Filek, Finley, Henski, and Merz) – [2:41:28]

Bill 23 – SB 2353/HB 2569 (Relating to Outdoor Signage) – [2:42:45]:
[2:42:47] – Anderson MOVED and Erteschik SECONDED to support SB 2353/HB 2569. Discussion followed. The board conducted a roll call vote, the motion WAS NOT ADOPTED; 0-13-1 (AYE: None; NAY: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Merz, Serota, and Smith; ABSTAIN: Daniel Jacob) – [2:43:43]

Bill 24 – SB 2367/HB1936 – [2:44:58]: Member Anderson suggested moving up item 8C regarding the letter to the Department of Land and Natural Resources up the agenda. Discussion followed.

[2:48:10] – Hearing no objections item 8C regarding Letter to DLNR About Parking at the Ala Wai Boat Harbor was moved up to the agenda.

Letter to DLNR about Parking at the Ala Wai Boat Harbor – [2:48:20]: Kate Thompson reported that in the past year, 2,585 cars were towed while only 25 tickets were issued; the year prior, only 4 tickets were issued despite over 2,000 cars towed annually. She requested the board send a letter to Don Chang and Acting DLNR Chair Ryan Kanaka Ole.
· Letter:

[2:50:07] – Merz MOVED and Henski SECONDED to support the letter regarding the Ala Wai Boat Harbor. Discussion followed. The board conducted a show of hands, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 14-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, D. Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:53:07]

Bill 24 – SB 2367/HB1936 (Continued) – [2:54:48]: Member Erteschik voiced his opposition with the bill.
[2:56:19] – Nordhal MOVED and Filek SECONDED defer remaining bills to the next agenda. Discussion followed. The board conducted a roll call vote, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 13-1-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: Daniel Jacob; ABSTAIN: None) – [3:00:12]

Appointment of Legislative Delegates to Represent WNB at the Legislature – [3:01:09]: Char Finley sited that Neighborhood Plan Section 2-14-125 the neighborhood board can appoint delegates to act for the board at the legislature.

[3:01:10] – Chair Finley MOVED and Henski SECONDED to nominate Members Anderson and Erteschik as legislative delegates to testify on behalf of the board on bills supported or opposed by the Waikīkī Neighborhood Board. Hearing no discussion and objections, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 14-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’ Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, D. Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [3:01:52]

IX. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 meeting: Due to time this item was postponed to the next agenda.

X. REPORTS

Sub district 1 Report – Merz: Due to time this item was postponed to the next agenda.

Sub district 2 Report – Anderson: Due to time this item was postponed to the next agenda.

Sub district 3 Report – Henski: Due to time this item was postponed to the next agenda.

Chair Report: Due to time this item was postponed to the next agenda.

XI. ANNOUNCEMENTS

Next Meeting: The next regular meeting will be on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Waikīkī Community Center, 310 Paoakalani Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815.

XII. ADJOURNMENT – [3:02:25]: Chair Finley adjourned the meeting at 9:06 p.m.

Submitted by: Anson Wu, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Dylan Whitsell, Deputy, NCO
Finalized by: Melissa Filek, Secretary Waikiki Neighborhood Board