WAIKĪKĪ NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 9

REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 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. 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) on main break report and BWS announcements – Dominic Dias

III. CITIZENS CONCERNS NOT COVERED IN REGULAR AGENDA

IV. 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. Sunday, March 15, 2026 7:15 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Honolulu Rainbow Ekiden Race (mostly in Kapiʻolani Park area)
b. Sunday March 15, 2026 3:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Honolulu Festival Parade
c. Tuesday, March 17, 2026 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Annual Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
d. Annual Prince Kūhiō Day Parade
e. Annual National Vietnam Veterans Day Parade

V. APPLICATIONS FOR LIQUOR LICENSE
a. Special liquor license, Tuesday, February 26, 2026 to Tuesday, February 26, 2027, Allegrini, 403 Kaiʻolu St, Beer and Wine.

VI. ELECTED OFFICIALS OR OFFICIALS’ REPRESENTATIVES
Officials will provide a briefing on current events that impact the Waikīkī 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/)

VII. 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

VIII. NEW BOARD BUSINESS: For Neighbors and Board Members Discussion and vote by Board Members.
a. Review and formalize proposed Bills to be considered by the 2026 Legislature.
The body of the following bills is available at the State Legislature Official Web Site.
The Motion for each bill shall be “The Waikīkī Neighborhood Board Supports or Opposes the intention of Senate or House Bill ________”
Bill Number Title
SB2732/HB1516 Relating to Pretrial Release
SB2557 Relating to Homelessness
SB2288 Relating to Mental Illness
SB2445 Relating to Pedestrians
SB2762 Relating to Bail
SB2308/HB2413 Relating to Pre Trial Reform
HB1626 Relating to Youth Penalties
HB2197 Relating to Property
HB2390 Relating to Penalties
HB2002 Relating to Neighborhood Safety
HB2043 Relating to Criminal Mischief
SB2037 Relating to Condominiums
SB2561/HB1679 Relating to Condominiums
SB2810/HB1940 Relating to Condominium Associations
SB2838 Relating to Condominiums
SB3181 Relating to Condominiums
HB1806 Relating to Condominium Governance
HB1834 Relating to Common Interest Communities
HB2239 Relating to Condominium Associations
HB2440 Relating to Insurance
SB3309/HB2453 Relating to Condominiums
SB2591 Relating to Noise
SB2353/HB2569 Relating to Outdoor Signage
SB2367/HB1936 Relating to State Boating Facilities
SB2997/HB1650 Relating to Environmental Assessments
HB1588 Relating to Department of Transportation
HB1609 Relating to State Facilities.
SB3241 Relating to Fire Risk Mitigation
SB3291 Relating to the Waikiki War Memorial Complex
HB2375 Relating to Towing Practices
HB1652 Relating to Storm Water Management
SB2866 Relating to Kupuna Housing
SB2867 Relating to Dementia
SB2815 Relating to Firearms
SB2812 Relating to Transportation Safety
HB1938 Relating to Fireworks
HB1590 Relating to Vacation Rentals
HB1759 Relating to Theft

b. Appointment of delegates to represent WNB at legislature. Delegate shall only testify on bills supported or opposed by WNB. Proposed delegates Anderson and Erteschik. Neighborhood Plan Section 2-14-125.
c. Letter to DNLR about parking at the Ala Wai Boat Harbor – Kate Thompson

IX. 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, February 10, 2026 meeting.
a. Tuesday, January 13, 2026 meeting

X. 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

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

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, JANUARY 13, 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=UwjL487AEsI

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

I. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:02]: Chair Robert Finley called the Waikīkī Neighborhood Board No. 9 regular meeting to order at 6:00 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, Lisa Cabanero, Cory D’Orazio, Louis Erteschik, Melissa Filek, Robert Finley, Kathryn Henski, Tim Huycke, Daniel Jacob (via WebEx), Ken Jacob (via WebEx), Jeff Merz, Rolf Nordahl, Shannon Smith, Sarah Worth (6:05 p.m. via WebEx), and Nate Serota (6:08 p.m. via WebEx).

Board Members Absent: Shotaro Dabbs.

Guests: Captain Shiroma (Honolulu Fire Department); Major Paul Okamoto, Acting Lieutenant Jared Spiker (Honolulu Police Department); Managing Director Mike Formby; Director Nola Miyasaki (Mayor’s Representative); Tasha Luke (Office of Council Chair Tommy Waters, via WebEx); Senator Sharon Moriwaki; Representative Adrian Tam; Ivonne Hunter (Governor’s Representative); Rick Egged (Waikīkī Improvement Association); Sophia Somers (Hawaiʻi Energy); Isaiah Sato and Julia (R.M. Towill Corporation and Architecture Group); Rom Walker, Denise Boisvert, David Tanouz, David Chung, Wes Frysetaeki, Chis Coggin, Nancy Coggin, Moe Elsayed, Sophia Somers, Justin Mendahall, Arleen Velasco, Caroline Brimblecombe, John Deutzman, Tim Garry, Kate Thompson, Amy Ammen, Tina (via WebEx), Mike Buck (via WebEx), Raymond Young (via WebEx), Jacob Wiencek (via WebEx), Greg Misakian (via WebEx), Margaret Murchie (via WebEx), Gloria G. Steiner (via WebEx), and Chris Curry (via WebEx) (Resident); and Anson Wu (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible. There were approximately 55 total participants.

II. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS – [0:02:30]

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – [0:02:49]: Captain Shiroma reported the December 2025 statistics. There was 1 structure fire, 1 nuisance fire, 1 cooking fire, 14 activated alarms with no fire, 229 medical incidents, 8 motor vehicle collisions, and 2 ocean rescues. The January 2026 safety tip focused on electrical safety: plug one appliance per wall receptacle; major appliances should be plugged directly into walls without extension cords or power strips; check cords regularly for fraying, breaks, or cracks that could cause fire hazards.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13dLh22lX2pgs69rxd_yJ_tftexMc1QJI/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:04:14]
1. Extension Cord Safety: Member Merz asked why extension cords should not be used with major appliances. Captain Shiroma explained wire gauges in extension cords can cause electrical shorts and fires when connecting main lines to appliances.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – [0:05:46]: Major Paul Okamoto introduced himself as the new Waikīkī district major and outlined his proactive approach. Acting Lieutenant Jared Spiker reported December 2025 statistics: 6 robberies, 16 burglaries, 85 thefts, 7 Unauthorized Entrance Motor Vehicle (UEMV), 37 assaults, 3 sex assaults, 0 skateboard/sidewalk device violations, 24 speeding citations, 1,584 parking citations, 3 loud muffler/prohibited noise citations, 69 park closure citations with 16 arrests, 4,357 total calls for service, and 25 Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JcaAmoyZfb1IXddjEss0MMqi2-EuRLjK/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:09:32]
1. Zoo Parking Lot Issues: Member Henski reported party noise, noise makers, and engine revving returned to the zoo parking lot near New Year’s Eve. Major Okamoto committed to dedicated officer time periods and increased blue light presence to address the issue.
2. Motorized Scooters on Sidewalks: Resident Wiencek requested proactive enforcement against reckless motorized scooters and bikes on Ala Wai Canal Promenade sidewalks.
3. New Year’s Beach Clearing: A resident questioned the strict beach clearing 21 minutes after midnight on New Year’s Eve at Outrigger Waikīkī Beach. Lieutenant Spiker explained this was a preventative approach to avoid potential crimes or altercations after fireworks.
4. Cartwright Road Encampment: Member Filek reported three people camping nightly on Cartwright Road on both private and public property despite calling HPD six times. Lieutenant Spiker explained that HPD can issue a trespass warning on a private property if a resident, building manager, or security guard is present. Member Filek questioned how to get the form. Lieutenant Spiker clarified that HPD officers should have the form on hand, he will speak to the officer and make sure its address.
5. Bus Concern: Resident Garry raised concerns regarding the TheBus blocking the crosswalks on Monsarrat Avenue near the shell and suggested HPD to cite the bus drivers. Lieutenant Spiker will speak with the Department of Transportation Services (DTS).
6. Surf Rack Blocking No Parking Zone: Resident Ammen reported Star Beach Boys surf shop places a surf rack in the no parking zone on Koa Avenue daily for 12 hours. Major Okamoto committed to sending officers to ensure the area is cleared.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [0:22:50]: No representative, a report was provided.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QN0s1u79ov3yAW9uO_JIu5X1xyzrg8Ch/view?usp=drive_link

Honolulu Managing Director Formby, regarding Kapiʻolani Park Land Swap – [0:23:57]: Managing Director Mike Formby presented a proposal to exchange 0.35 acres on Leahi Street for 2.21 acres at the Kapiʻolani Park entrance on Kalākaua Avenue. The city proposes putting more acreage (2.21) into the trust than removing (0.35), and when Ocean Safety relocates to a new facility, the 0.35 acres will return to the Kapiʻolani trust. The proposal requires City Council and court approval.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:31:57]
1. Property Status and Walking Access: Member Rolph asked about current ownership and whether walking access would continue. Managing Director Formby confirmed the city owns the 2.21 acres but it’s not currently in the trust; putting it in trust adds restrictions but doesn’t change current use or public access.
2. Trust Restrictions and Biki Stations: Member Merz asked about maintenance and Biki bike stations under trust restrictions. Managing Director Formby confirmed the Department of Parks of Recreation still maintains all Kapiʻolani property equally; the parcel behind the cafe with the Biki bike stations would remain non-trust to avoid restriction issues.
3. Ocean Safety Facility Need: Vice Chair Erteschik recommended board support since Ocean Safety needs adequate staging facilities and the current facility is insufficient. Managing Director Formby invited board members to tour the inadequate current facility with Chief Logger.
4. Support: Member Henski voiced her support for the new location and recommend all the board members to support the proposal. Managing Director Formby invites the board members to look at the current facility.
5. Permanent Facility above Tsunami Zone: Resident Garry urged to immediately relocate the South Shore captain from the deteriorating natatorium, and build a permanent hurricane-proof facility above the tsunami zone near Kapʻiolani Community College (KCC) on city-owned property. Managing Director Formby responded that Ocean Safety first responders will make location decisions, and he confirmed they’re working to move the natatorium district office.
6. Landscaping: Resident Margaret requested landscaping around facilities to camouflage equipment, noting current visibility issues along Leahi.
7. Additional Suggestions and More Information: Member Worth suggested remodeling the natatorium, possibly moving the police department more inland, and read the court decision and guide lines.
8. Voting Concerns: Members Worth questioned Office of Information Practices (OIP) answer on voting procedure, noting it contradicts Secretary Lloyd’s answer regarding voting procedure, would like to see OIP answer before voting, and wants more information before voting. Member Henski suggest the board to support the presentation at tonight’s meeting. Member Serota agrees with Member Worth suggesting not voting at tonight’s meeting without prior access to handout materials. Chair Finley withdrew the motion, agreeing to place it on a future agenda after conferring with Diamond Head Kapaʻhulu St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board 5.

III. CITIZENS’ CONCERNS NOT COVERED IN REGULAR AGENDA – [0:48:00]

Ala Wai Harbor Parking and Towing – [0:48:10]: Multiple residents and board members raised concerns regarding the excessive car towing at the Ala Wai Harbor Parking. Resident Thompson requested the board to write a letter asking the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) for a parking ticket phase-in stage before towing, and either deputize someone or allow the parking company Secure Parking to issue citations like at Honolulu Zoo per Act 163. Member Merz suggested having Hawaiʻi Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR) and DLNR attend the meeting. Chair Finley committing to invite them to February’s 2026 meeting.

Federal Spending and Economic Reform – [0:00:00]: Resident Wiencek urged no tax hikes without real spending cuts and structural reforms given federal fiscal recklessness and budget uncertainty. He emphasized Hawaiʻi must meaningfully cut spending and reform business practices to improve economic competitiveness and affordability.

Hilton Parking and Tower Proposal – [0:00:00]: Resident Morgan raised concerns about Hilton proposing a new tower on a tiny lot near Kobe Steakhouse while misusing free harbor parking and having no guest/employee parking solutions.

Kūhiō Bus Lane – [0:00:00]: Member Huycke asked about plans to remove the Kūhiō bus lane. Chair Finley noted DTS will attend February’s 2026 meeting to discuss all bus and Kūhiō Avenue matters.

Waste, Fraud, and Abuse Audits – [0:00:00]: Member Huycke urged elected officials to audit welfare programs for waste, fraud, and abuse rather than only discussing lack of federal funding. He expressed disbelief Hawaiʻi is the only state without such problems.

Ala Wai Speed Limit – [0:00:00]: Resident Ammen asked if DTS is in charge of determining the speed limit and requested lowering Ala Wai Boulevard’s 35 mph speed limit to 25 mph for consistency with Waikīkī. Chair Finley agreed to ask DTS about jurisdiction over speed limits.

IV. OʻAHU SCHEDULE OF MAJOR PARADES AND STREET EVENTS – [1:07:40]
• Monday, January 19, 2026, 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade

V. APPLICATIONS FOR LIQUOR LICENSE – [1:08:05]
• Thursday, January 29, 2026, Poke Bar Waikīkī, 2520 Kalākaua, Cat 1.
• Special License, The Capitol Grill, 2380 Kūhiō, Cat 1

VI. ELECTED OFFICIALS OR OFFICIALS’ REPRESENTATIVES – [1:08:43]

Mayor’s Representative – [1:09:04]: Director Nola Miyasaki read Mayor Blangiardi’s New Year message emphasizing 2025’s momentum and 2026’s unlimited expectations for better service. She announced BWS doubled rebates for water-saving appliances (Energy Star washers $75 to $150, WaterSense toilets $100 to $200, smart water monitors $200 to $400), Kurt Logger was sworn in as Ocean Safety Chief, new flood risk maps take effect June 10, 2026, and DIT rolled out an improved 311 app with demonstration by Tina. Director Nola provided responses to questions asked in the previous meeting regarding

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:30:20]
1. City Website Improvements: Resident Wiencek praised NCO’s website as the gold standard but noted Planning Commission, Police/Fire Commissions, and city events websites are outdated and difficult to navigate. He requested improved websites for civic participation with easy access to meeting information, agendas, minutes, and recordings.
2. Amplified Street Music: Resident Murchie raised concerns about amplified music and disruptive entertainers returned to Kalākaua Avenue. Chair Finley deferred to Council Chair Waters who is working on street music legislation.
3. Ambulance Response Times: Resident Steiner reported concerning ambulance wait times of 30 minutes to 1.5 hours for two recent calls, with one patient having a stroke during the wait. Chair Finley agreed to address this at the next meeting.

Council Chair Tommy Waters – [1:35:33]: Tasha Luke reported Bill 76 requiring searchable online database of city revenues/expenditures, was introduced by Chair Waters and Budget Chair Okimoto and is out for second reading. Resolution 25-316 accepting $1 million community benefit from Hilton Grand Vacations in partnership with Waikīkī Business Improvement District (WBID) to support Kūhiō Beach Park restoration will be heard at the Wednesday, January 28, 2026 full council meeting; and noted that Chair Waters is working on measures regarding street performers and will bring take back the concern.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ayv5EGzq1AZQRgyR3Z_45DaOJhp-bNuo/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:36:58]
1. Bills 71, 72, 76, 77: Resident Wiencek testified in support of Bills 76 and 77, and urged passage of Bills 71 and 72 which provides parking and zoning reform to address affordability concerns. He requested Chair Waters ensure these bills don’t get stuck in the legislative process.
2. Vacant Property at Seaside/Kūhiō: Member Merz asked for updates on the vacant and boarded up bar located on Seaside and Kūhiō. Chair Finley noted Paul Kosasa has been waiting 5-6 years for a city permit demolition.
3. Speed Limit Jurisdiction: Chair Finley asked who sets Speed Limits City Council or DTS for the Ala Wai Boulevard request. Luke agreed to ask Chair Waters about jurisdiction.

Senator Sharon Moriwaki – [1:40:51]: Senator Moriwaki reported the legislature opens Wednesday, January 21, 2026 and noted her membership on the ways and means committee. She’s introducing approximately 40 bills including the Kūpuna Caucus package which is limited to 5 bills regarding: caregiver tax credit, state plan for hearing loss, making permanent direct supplement programs for elderly/disabled and those on fixed incomes, requiring dementia training for first responders, and in-home health care support services for those not qualifying for Medicare/Medicaid. She emphasized avoiding taking back 2025 tax cuts by making department cuts and finding sustainable income generation, addressing major issues like biosecurity, coconut rhinoceros beetles, affordable housing, homelessness, and mental health services. She urged public testimony on bills of interest since lack of testimony causes bills to be passed over.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GH9vXLdttBSjTWaqFMNm0gaRySqc49Ov/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:46:12]
1. Boating Facility Management Lease Program Bill: Member Merz requested that the bill be kept on the radar and asked for further information about it. Senator Moriwaki committed to having interim director Ryan Kanaka and DOBOR administrator Megan Stats attend February’s meeting to discuss the towing company.
2. Vehicle Hood Height Registration Fee: Member Merz asked about the nexus between hood height and helping kūpuna. Senator Moriwaki explained Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organizationʻs (MPO) transportation conference showed 40-foot-high vehicles have poor visibility of children in front, and the fee deters extremely tall vehicles
3. Professional Harbor Management: Member Henski urged immediate professional harbor management rather than continued delays, citing deplorable docks, broken pump out stations, and fenced water access. Senator Moriwaki confirmed the bill proposes hiring management companies with expertise and possibly returning small boat harbors to Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT).
4. Garbage Truck Early Trash Collection: Member Ertischek voiced his support for the garbage truck early trash collection bill.
5. $35,000 Bribery Investigation: Resident Misakian asked if the Attorney Generalʻs (AG) office should investigate or have a legislative committee convened to investigate the alleged $35,000 bribery. Senator Moriwaki explained limited resources and time during the four-month session preclude investigation; noted that the Senate President asked if the senators knew anything; and both federal authorities and AG are cooperating with FBI. Resident Misakian noted that the legislators knew months ago and had time in 2025 to look into this.
6. Economic Competitiveness and Reform Bills: Resident Wiencek urged to focus on real spending cuts and structural reforms instead of tax hikes and suggested advancing stuck bills: Senate Bill (SB) 375 commission on government restructuring, SB 418 mandatory 5-year regulatory reviews, SB 1081 independent legislative budget office, and House Bill (HB) 141 elections commission reform.
7. Corruption and Legislative Transparency: Member Worth criticized the AG’s approach of just asking senators if they took $35,000 in a paper bag as inadequate. She emphasized corruption investigations should be a priority and questioned the sincerity of addressing Hawaiʻi’s corruption.

Representative Adrian Tam – [1:59:42]: Representative Tam invited everyone to opening day Wednesday, January 21, 2026 and announced he chairs the House Tourism Committee. He reported on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., the Green Fee Council will present recommendations via webinar, with part of the funding will go to the Waikīkī beach replenishment projects. He noted his 10 House Bills and 10-bills for the tourism committee regarding making noise camera pilot program permanent with citations, dementia-friendly business database for Alzheimer’s, revamping overseas offices to grow Hawaiʻiʻs manufacturing exports, eliminating online condo doc fees, green fee, and an illegal vacation rental enforcement bill. He urged sending survey responses or emailing revtam@capitol.hawaii.gov

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:02:59]
1. Condo Document Fees and Ombudsman: Resident Misakian asked about condo doc fees legislation and urged support for the condo ombudsman bill to address corruption, backdoor deals, kickbacks, and contractor issues following Act 43’s Legislative Reference Bureau report costing $300,000+ showing Florida and Nevada have ombudsman offices. Representative Tam clarified his bill codifies a lawsuit requiring free electronic access to three documents, and noted being open to the condo ombudsman bill if jury trial rights are preserved.
2. Economic Competitiveness and Digital ID: Resident Wiencek urged focus on economic competitiveness given Hawaiʻi’s forecasted mild recession and federal headwinds, and implementing Business Revitalization Task Force and Small Business Regulatory Review Board recommendations to grow the private sector. He also encouraged the adoption of HDOT’s digital driver’s license and state ID program for business and government agencies. Representative Tam agrees with Resident Wiencek.

Governor’s Representative – [2:09:18]: Ivonne Hunter stated the Wednesday, January 21, 2026 legislative session which would include intense talks about economic growth, program funding, and energy, transportation, and healthcare affordability.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:10:22]
1. Ala Wai Pedestrian Bridge Federal Funding: Member Merz asked about federal HDOT funding status for the proposed Ala Wai pedestrian bridge and whether funds expire. Hunter did not have a clear answer but she will look into it.
2. Gender Sanctuary State and DCR Reforms: Resident Wiencek strongly opposed the LGBTQ commission’s petition for Hawaiʻi to become a gender sanctuary state via executive order, stating it should come from the legislative branch and Hawaiʻi shouldn’t dive into mainland culture wars due to the sensitivity of the issue. He also opposed Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) repealing Act 292 which limits solitary confinement reforms noting as counterproductive.

VII. WAIKĪKĪ IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (WIA) – [2:14:10]

Rick Egged provided a response to the concern regarding HPD clearing the beach immediately after the fireworks show. He participated at the public safety conference earlier this month and talked about issues petraining to Waikīkī such as emergency declarations and sending out information during tsunami emergancy. He also noted the Sony Open occurs this weekend.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:15:39]
1. Emergency Evacuation Procedures: Chair Finley emphasized emergency evacuation procedures as a major takeaway from the conference, noting too many people in buildings higher than four stories evacuated and immediately clogged traffic and will set up a presentation with the Honolulu Emergency Services (EMS). Rick Egged responded that the key message is people in buildings 4 or more stories should shelter in place stay rather than evacuate and causing traffic.

VIII. NEW BOARD BUSINESS – [2:17:50]

Prepare for the 2026 Legislative Plan – [2:18:15]: Chair Finley explained Office of Informational Practice (OIP) advised against forming a Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) because by the time the PIG could present recommendations it would be too late in the session. He requested board members send legislative priorities by Friday, January 30, 2026 for placement on the February 2026 agenda, with Members Anderson and Erteschik spearheading review. The board will support bill intent/concept rather than specific wording since language changes through the legislative process. Chair Finley suggested the board will consider forming a PIG earlier in October 2026 to start work before the session.

Hawaiʻi Energy Presentation – [2:20:12]: Sophia Somers from Hawaiʻi Energy presented on two programs for small businesses, nonprofits, restaurants, and mom-and-pop shops: Empower Grant – tier-based reimbursement system for Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, and building envelope upgrades; Energy Advantage Lighting Retrofit – free assessment by certified clean energy allies’ contractors with up to 100% subsidized for basic lighting replacement however co-pay would be needed for advanced controls. To be qualified for the programs they must be on a Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) rate schedule G account, using under 30 kilowatts per month. Restaurants and Non-profit are atomically qualified for the programs. Businesses on the island of Kauaʻi, entities that are completely off-grid, and businesses with a residential schedule R are not qualified.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1G7JgBxsQ4DamHg5q8g6UAFZKnyXXTXrg/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:27:41]
1. Administration: Member Merz asked about Hawaiʻi Energy’s relationship to the state energy office. Somers explained Leidos won the Public Utility Commission (PUC) contract renewed every 3 years to administer Hawaiʻi Energy program; they’ve been the incumbent for 15 years, now going on 18 years.

Gachon University Residences, 2022 Kalākaua – [2:29:46]: Isaiah Sato from R.M. Towill Corporation presented a proposed 9 story, 33 unit student housing building for Gachon University on an 18,218 sq ft parking lot site at 2002 Kalākaua between Keoniana and Kuamoʻo Street. The Resort Mixed-Use Precinct zoning allows 130 ft height; project is outside Special Management Area (SMA) but within Waikīkī Special District. The proposed ingress and egress will be located on Kuamoʻo Street. The building includes approximately 25,000 sq ft floor area: 33 total units, 21 bicycle stalls, 9 vehicle parking stalls, recreation space, outdoor lawn, shared kitchen and office. Julia from Architecture Group noted an open area park for residents with the parking is located in the back of the building. The ground floor is mainly for administrative offices, with public space and utility. Julia described the building as Hawaiian modernist-inspired design with neutral color palette to fit in with the neighborhood. Required entitlements: Environmental Assessment (EA) and Waikīkī Special District Permit (WSDP). Timeline: currently in pre-submittal; draft EA submittal followed by 30-day comment period; final EA; then WSDP submittal, Design Advisory Committee review, and public hearing.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JqV3JzsTUgN4V5uDuSqI08R9c_GKQ6oA/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:39:35]
1. EA Publication Timeline: Member Merz asked when the EA will appear in the environmental notice. Sato estimated 1-2 months after city back-and-forth review, likely not early February 2026.
2. Parking Strategy: Member Henski noticed the 9 parking spaces and questioned if the students are expected to buses or bikes. Sato explained they expect students to use buses and Biki given Waikīkī’s excellent multi-modal transit system; not all students anticipated to have vehicles.
3. Building Location Clarification: Member Henski questioned if the building is located where Tony Roma is. Chair Finley and Sato clarified the building will be built next to the ABC store.
4. Student Capacity: Member Serota asked about total student count. Sato clarified approximately 65 students since some units have two beds.
5. Ground Floor and Sea Level Rise: Chair Finley asked about ground floor use given sea level rise concerns. Julia confirmed no residential units on ground floor, only administrative offices, communal kitchen/public space, and utilities in back.
6. Unit Size: Member D’Orazio asked about studio size. The team confirmed studios under 300 sq ft, intended for student housing with bathroom and small kitchen.
7. Community Support and Engagement: Resident Wiencek expressed excitement about the productive use of an underutilized eyesore space and support for student housing investment Waikīkī needs. Chair noted that the board would not need to vote at tonight’s meeting as they haven’t received a draft EA.
8. Notifications: Resident Misakian noted living 150-200 feet away on Keoniana Street and serving as condo association director, requested inclusion in all future notifications and comment periods. Sato provided his email for the consultation list and noted materials are on the Google Drive.
9. View Impacts and Construction Timeline: Resident Misakian noted potential view impacts for his building’s residents and asked about buildout timeline. Chair Finley noted the buildout timeline has not been settled yet.

Adjust Park Closure Hours for Duke Kahanamoku Beach Park – [2:49:18]: Chair Finley noted a request from Member Serota on a proposed adjusting Duke Kahanamoku Beach Park closure hours from 2:00 a.m.-5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.-5:00 a.m. to match the rest of Waikīkī shoreline from Kūhiō Beach to Kapiʻolani Park. Hilton Hawaiian Village chief of security supports the change, the business district favors consistency, and it allows HPD to conduct park closure enforcement all at the same time. Member Serota noted the beach jurisdiction remains murky since the park itself is only the comfort station bathroom buildings at the end of Paoa Place while the beach is under the Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement (DOCARE). Consistent Park closure hours will help enforcement despite jurisdictional issues in regards to the houseless issue in Fort DeRussy.

[2:51:35] – Merz MOVED and Henski SECONDED to support adjusting park closure hours for Duke Kahanamoku Beach Park from 2:00 a.m. – 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. – 5:00 a.m. Hearing no further discussion, the board conducted a roll call vote. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 15-0-1 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, D. Jacob, K. Jacob, Merz, Smith, and Worth; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: Serota) – [2:51:50]

IX. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – [2:53:02]

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 meeting – [2:53:03]: Chair Finley noted Member Worth sent administrative corrections.

[2:53:16] – Hearing no other corrections or objections. The Tuesday, November 4, 2025 drafted regular meeting minutes WAS ADOPTED as corrected; 16-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, Cabanero, D’Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, D. Jacob, K. Jacob, Serota, Merz, Smith, and Worth; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:53:22]

X. REPORTS – [2:53:50]

Sub district 1 Report – Merz – [2:53:54]: Member Merz reported the main issues are the Ala Wai Harbor situation and traffic concerns at Lipeepee and Hobron.

Sub district 2 Report – Anderson – [2:54:13]: No report.

Sub district 3 Report – Henski – [2:54:19]: Member Henski reiterated concerns about zoo parking lot noise issues and buses blocking crosswalks.

Chair Report – [2:54:33]: Chair Finley reported attending the visitor industry safety, noting hotel managers and HPD attended the meeting. He also noted safety projects are moving ahead which includes license plate readers and drones, which the board previously supported.

XI. ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:55:21]

Next Meeting – [2:55:22]: The next regular meeting will be on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Waikīkī Community Center, 310 Paoakalani Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815.

XII. ADJOURNMENT – [2:55:30] – 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:

To view agenda and minutes, visit our board website.

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