MAKIKI – LOWER PUNCHBOWL – TANTALUS NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 10
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2025 AT 6:00 P.M.
MAKIKI DISTRICT PARK (OLD MAKIKI COMMUNITY LIBRARY, 2ND FLOOR)
1527 KE’EAUMOKU STREET, HONOLULU, HI 96822 (https://maps.app.goo.gl/tn2vhKmnhhBafkJy5)
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX
Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=mf66d21b6ef825a3d0e117ed0856d527b
Meeting Number / Access Code: 2500 575 4786
Password: NB10 (6210 from phones and video systems)
Join by Phone: +1-408-418-9388 (United States Toll)
Meeting Recordings: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfqRwVpRrookChkQxjZlnB_r8en78zV4Q
Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1su4uYFuTVRMZYxBlR8WnaR0cDMcjbHjE
Purpose: §2-13-101 [Neighborhood Plan of 2008, City Charter] “Purpose. The purpose of this neighborhood plan and the neighborhood boards is to increase and assure effective citizen participation in the decisions of government.”
Community Vision Statement: “A safe and healthy community with a lei of parks connected by roads, sidewalks, and public transportation; where daily life is not interrupted by loud vehicles and other obnoxious noises; where all community members are valued, including the least fortunate; and where residents are proud to live.”
Rules of Speaking and Notes: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to raise their hand. When recognized by the Chair, address comments to the Chair. Speakers are encouraged to keep their comments under 3 minutes, and those giving reports are urged to keep their reports under 3 minutes. Please silence all electronic devices. 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. A two-thirds (2/3) vote of this 17-member Board is needed to add an item to the agenda. No item shall be added to the agenda if it is of reasonably major importance and action thereon by the board will affect a significant number of persons.
Description of Board Boundaries: https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/boards-and-sub-district-boundary-descriptions
Neighborhood Plan §2-14-116 Disclosure. (a) Any board member who knows he or she has a personal or private interest, direct or indirect, in any proposal before the board shall disclose the interest either orally or in writing to the board. The disclosure shall also be made a matter of public record before the board takes any action on the proposal.
(b) A member who makes any disclosure shall not be disqualified from participation in the discussion or vote on the matter. A member may choose to be recused. A recused member shall not participate in the discussion or vote.
1. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Nathan Char (nathanielchar@gmail.com)
2. ROLL CALL – Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi (curtis.hayashi@honolulu.gov)
3. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) (HFDNHB@honolulu.gov)
4. HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) (https://www.honolulupd.org/contact-us)
A. HPD Presentation on Protecting Kupuna (Seniors) from Scams
B. Requesting Focused HPD Parking and Traffic Enforcement at Chick-fil-A Makiki
5. CITY REPORTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
A. Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Michele Harman (contactus@hbws.org)
B. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative (https://www8.honolulu.gov/mayor/newsletter) – Megan Johnson (https://www8.honolulu.gov/mayor/contact-the-mayor)
C. District 5: Councilmember Scott Nishimoto
(https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district-5-scott-nishimoto) – Taylor Date (scott.nishimoto@honolulu.gov)
D. District 6: Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam
(https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district-6-dos-santos-tam) – Robin Henski (tdossantos-tam@honolulu.gov)
6. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS (Limited to 2 minutes each)
Residents, not board members, can share comments and concerns that are not listed on the agenda. Per the “Sunshine Law” (HRS 92), concerns not on the agenda may be presented, but the Board cannot take action.
7. STATE OFFICIAL REPORTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
A. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – Russell Pang (russell.wk.pang@hawaii.gov)
B. State Senator Carol Fukunaga (District 11) (senfukunaga@capitol.hawaii.gov)
C. State Representative Della Au Belatti (District 26) (repbelatti@capitol.hawaii.gov)
D. State Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto (District 25) (repiwamoto@capitol.hawaii.gov)
E. State Representative Ikaika Olds (District 23) (repolds@capitol.hawaii.gov)
F. State Representative Andrew Garrett (District 22) (repgarrett@capitol.hawaii.gov)
8. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS
A. Approval of Written Summary for Video Record: Thursday, September 18, 2025
(Draft Written Summaries: https://www4.honolulu.gov/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-11258)
B. Presentation on Hawaii’s Exceptional Tree Program – Myles Ritchie, PhD
C. Adopt a Resolution Urging the Department of Parks and Recreation to Prioritize and Expedite the Makiki Community Garden Fence Project
D. Adopt a Resolution to Encourage the State Legislature to Prioritize Comprehensive Pesticide Reform – Yvonne Yoro (State Representative Amy Perruso’s office)
Resolution: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yINpjQyYMm_lvgevKy4WO3PSrKhUPlSx/edit
E. Discussion on Honolulu’s Bill 7 (Ordinance 19-8 Relating to Affordable Rental Housing) – Gavin Thornton (City’s Director of Housing Policy)
Ordinance 19-8: https://www.honolulu.gov/dpp/wp-content/uploads/sites/56/2024/07/ORD19-8.pdf
F. Discussion and Report on the September 2025 Special Meeting on Traffic Safety
a. Consideration of Scheduling a Special Meeting on Traffic Safety
G. Discussion and Recognition of Thomas Square Park’s History – Robert Peters
9. BOARD/COMMUNITY REPORTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
A. Nice Neighborhoods Committee – Harris Nakamoto (junfour@gmail.com)
Committee Agendas: https://www4.honolulu.gov/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-15372
B. O‘ahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) – John Steelquist (john@steelquist.com)
Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC): https://oahumpo.org/citizen-advisory-committee
C. TUKAH (The United Korean Association of Hawaii) Kimchi Day on Saturday, November 22, 2025 from 10 AM to 7 PM and Movie Night Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 5:30 PM – Joyce Yang
10. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
Next Regular Meeting: Neighborhood Board No. 10 is scheduled to meet on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. at Makiki District Park (Old Makiki Community Library, 2nd Floor) and online via Webex.
Broadcast, Social Media, and Board Info: The meetings can be viewed on ʻŌlelo FOCUS 49 on the first Friday at 9:00 p.m. and third Sunday at 3:00 p.m. (https://olelo.org/tune-in). Follow us at http://www.facebook.com/MakikiNB and visit https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/nb10 for Makiki Neighborhood Board info.
11. ADJOURNMENT
A mailing list is maintained for interested persons and agencies to receive this board’s agenda and minutes. Additions, corrections, and deletions to the mailing list may be directed to the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) at Kapālama Hale, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817, by telephone on (808) 768-3710, fax (808) 768-3711, or emailing nco@honolulu.gov. Agenda documents and minutes are also available online at https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards.
All written testimony must be received in the Neighborhood Commission Office 48 hours prior to the meeting. If within 48 hours of the meeting, written and/or oral testimony may be submitted directly to the Board at the meeting. If submitting written testimony, please note the Board and agenda item(s) your testimony concerns. Send to: Neighborhood Commission Office, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817, fax (808) 768-3711, email nbtestimony@honolulu.gov, or complete the form on https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/testimony.
If you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability or an interpreter for a language other than English, please call the Neighborhood Commission Office at (808) 768-3710 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. or email nco@honolulu.gov at least 3 business days before the scheduled meeting. It may not be possible to fulfill requests received after this date.
DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2025 AT 6:00 P.M.
MAKIKI DISTRICT PARK (OLD MAKIKI COMMUNITY LIBRARY, 2ND FLOOR) – 1527 KE’EAUMOKU STREET, HONOLULU, HI 96822 AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX
Meeting Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NgieSCz_sS0&list=PLfqRwVpRrookChkQxjZlnB_r8en78zV4Q
Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1su4uYFuTVRMZYxBlR8WnaR0cDMcjbHjE
1. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:09]: Chair Nathan Char called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL – [0:00:13]: Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi conducted a roll call. Quorum was established with 11 members present. Note: This 17-member Board requires nine (9) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.
Members Present: Nathaniel Char, Eric Salassa (joined at 6:35 p.m.), Arthur Eberhardt, Bronson Silva (joined at 6:01 p.m.), Harris Nakamoto (joined at 6:01 p.m.), John Steelquist, Sam Mitchell, Chuck Lee, Kahanu Chan, Richard Kawano, Robert Peters, Janvier Witham, Adam Kirchmann, Kimberley Gallant, Linda Dela Cruz (joined at 6:01 p.m.), Nancy Depicolzuane (joined at 7:23 p.m.), and Amanda Kirby (appointed at 6:28 p.m.).
Members Absent: None.
Guests: Sergeant Lyle Wakabayashi and Lieutenant Lane Nogawa (Honolulu Police Department); Taylor Date (Councilmember Nishimoto); Robin Henski (Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam); Russell Pang (Governor Josh Green); Senator Carol Fukunaga; Representative Andrew Garrett; Yvonne Yoro, Lindsay Chambers, Richard Ching and Tom Heinrich (Residents/Guests); Curtis Hayashi (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name not included if not legible or stated for the record. About 36 participants joined the meeting.
3. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) – [0:01:13]: No representative was present at this time.
Secretary Silva, Member Nakamoto, and Member Dela Cruz joined the meeting at 6:01 p.m.; 14 members present.
4. HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) – [0:01:25]: Sergeant Wakabayashi provided the report:
• August 2025 Statistics: There were ten (10) motor vehicle thefts (previous month: 9), eight (8) burglaries (previous month: 6), 26 thefts (previous month: 44), seven (7) unauthorized entry into motor vehicles (UEMV) (same as previous month), nine (9) assaults (previous month: 11), zero (0) sexual assaults (previous month: 3), zero graffiti cases (same as previous month), three (3) drug cases (previous month: 4), and 83 motor vehicle collisions (previous month: 79).
• Ward Avenue/Lunalilo Street Intersection: In response to a previous request, HPD reported 16 motor vehicle collisions at the Ward Avenue and Lunalilo Street intersection since July 1, 2024.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [0:03:04]:
• Homeless Concerns: Member Lee asked about the procedure for “homeless sweeps.” Sergeant Wakabayashi explained that HPD works with the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) to enforce the City’s Stored Property Ordinance (SPO), offering services including housing and medical assistance before taking action.
• Homeless Services Acceptance: Member Kirchmann asked how often homeless individuals accept services. Sergeant Wakabayashi stated that many accept housing services through the HONU (Homeless Outreach and Navigation for Unsheltered Persons) program (https://www.honolulu.gov/dcs/honu) currently operating at the Old Stadium Park.
• Sidewalk Obstruction: Member Eberhardt reported residents’ concerns about a van parked on Young and Victoria Street where occupants spread out over the sidewalk, forcing pedestrians to walk in the street. Sergeant Wakabayashi advised calling 911 when sidewalks are blocked, creating dangerous conditions.
• Illegal Parking: Resident Richard Ching reported ongoing issues with a black Nissan truck illegally parking at 1427 Ernest Street. Sergeant Wakabayashi confirmed two tickets had been issued and promised to address the situation.
• Abandoned Vehicles: Member Kirchmann asked about vehicles parked long-term on Davenport Street with grass growing underneath them. Sergeant Wakabayashi explained the process of marking tires and allowing 24 hours before taking action, noting that abandoned vehicle fines are $160.
• Private Street Jurisdiction: Member Kirchmann mentioned confusion about whether Davenport is a private street, affecting responsibility for signage, sidewalks, and enforcement. Sergeant Wakabayashi suggested checking for city stickers on the back of signs to determine jurisdiction.
• Nehoa Street Property: Resident June asked for updates on 1525 Nehoa Street. Sergeant Wakabayashi reported the property was recently sold to a new realtor, and the previous caretaker (Henry) is no longer maintaining the property.
• Ward/Lunalilo Intersection Safety: Resident Claire Santos asked about next steps for improving safety at the Ward Avenue and Lunalilo Street intersection. Sergeant Wakabayashi explained that the Department of Transportation (DOT) would need to conduct an assessment and potentially add signs or speed bumps.
3. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) – [0:01:11]: Captain Go provided the report:
• August 2025 Statistics: There were two (2) structure fires, 129 medical incidents, and eight (8) motor vehicle crashes and collisions.
• Fire Safety Tip: The fire safety tip for September focused on lithium-ion battery safety. The National Fire Protection Association’s Fire Prevention Week campaign educates the public about using these batteries safely. Lithium-ion batteries store a lot of energy in a small space and can overheat, start a fire, or explode if they overcharge or are damaged. Safety recommendations include: buying only listed products with safety certification marks (UL, ETL, or CSA); charging devices safely using manufacturer-approved cords and chargers on hard surfaces; not overcharging devices; and recycling batteries responsibly at designated locations.
• Upcoming Event: HFD Fire Prevention Family Day on October 4, 2025, at Honolulu Zoo from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y2QHTi2_Vv5x_cbkdS3eXgunB0P9usOc/view
Secretary Silva, Member Nakamoto, and Member Dela Cruz joined the meeting at 6:01 p.m.; 14 members present.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [0:18:09]:
• Structure Fire Details: Member Kawano asked for more information about the two structure fires. Captain Go did not have the specific addresses or details but offered to provide that information at the next meeting.
• Lithium-Ion Battery Fires: Member Kawano asked how HFD handles lithium-ion battery fires. Captain Go explained they initially try using water, but larger batteries like those in electric vehicles are more difficult to extinguish and require special procedures. HFD is testing new fire blankets and large containers for these situations.
• Electric Vehicle Shipping: Member Peters asked if Pasha stopped shipping electric vehicles due to battery concerns. Captain Go confirmed this is a safety concern during transport.
• Condominium Battery Safety: Member Eberhardt asked if HFD would issue directives for lithium-ion battery safety in condominiums similar to Christmas tree safety guidelines. Captain Go stated there are currently no specific fire codes for this, but condominium associations might establish their own rules.
• Charging Station Guidelines: Member Kirchmann inquired about guidelines for installing charging stations for electric vehicles and scooters in residential buildings. Captain Go noted that while specific guidelines are still being developed, he recommended plugging devices directly into wall outlets rather than extension cords, not leaving charging devices unattended, and contacting Hawaiian Electric for more information.
• Homeless Encampment Fire: Resident Richard Ching asked about a fire in a water canal near Makiki Street. Captain Go confirmed there was a fire at a homeless encampment in that area a few weeks ago.
5. FILLING ONE VACANT AT-LARGE SEAT – [0:26:51]: Resident Amanda Kirby introduced herself as a candidate for the vacant at-large seat. She has been a Makiki resident for five years, works in social services, and serves as vice president of the Makiki Community Garden and on the garden council for the entire program.
Chair Char MOVED and Vice Chair Steelquist SECONDED to nominate Amanda Kirby to fill the vacant at-large seat. Amanda Kirby was APPOINTED to fill the vacant at-large seat; 14-0-0 (Aye: Char, Eberhardt, Silva, Nakamoto, Steelquist, Mitchell, Lee, Chan, Kawano, Peters, Witham, Kirchmann, Dela Cruz, and Gallant; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [0:28:37].
Chair Char called a recess at 6:29 p.m. Kirby took the oath of office at 6:29 p.m.; 15 members present.
Chair Char called the meeting back to order at 6:30 p.m.
6. CITY REPORTS – [0:29:50]
Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [0:29:57]: Michelle Harman invited everyone to the annual “Imagine a Day Without Water” event at Windward Mall on Saturday. The event starts with a recycling drive at 8:00 a.m. in the parking lot next to Leonard’s Malasadas, followed by activities in the center court from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. featuring over 20 agencies, keiki events, giveaways including rain barrels, and interactive activities.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [0:30:40]:
• Event Notifications: Member Kirchmann requested that future events be added to email notifications so board members can add them to their calendars. Michelle agreed to email event information to Curtis for distribution and noted that BWS also posts events on Instagram and Facebook at @BWSHonolulu.
• Desalination Project: Member Kawano asked about an unofficial university desalination project in the Leeward area. Michelle was not familiar with it but offered to provide information at the next meeting.
Member Salassa joined the meeting at 6:35 p.m.; 16 members present.
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [0:38:22]: Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi shared the Mayor’s report:
• Charter Commission: The Honolulu Charter Commission is conducting its once-a-decade review of the Honolulu City Charter. Community members can submit proposals by November 7, 2025, and the commission will hold community meetings in October. More information is available at honolulucitycouncil.org/charter-commission.
• Traffic Safety Statistics: From January 1, 2022, to August 25, 2025, there were five motor vehicle collisions at the five-way intersection at Iolani Avenue, Prospect Street, and Alapai Street. From August 24, 2024, to August 25, 2025, there were 13 motor vehicle collisions at Ward Avenue and Lunalilo Street.
• Makiki Street Enforcement: From August 26 to September 8, 2025, officers cited three vehicles for parking out of stall in the area of Makiki Street and Heulu Street.
• Department of Transportation Services (DTS) Investigations: DTS is investigating traffic safety concerns, including the five-way intersection, the Ward Avenue and Lunalilo Street intersection, adding a second right-turn optional lane on Kinau Street and Pensacola Street, and restriping crosswalks on Wilder Avenue. Results are expected by April 2026.
• Newsletter: https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/newsletter
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [0:36:53]:
• Intersection Safety Timeline: Member Kirchmann asked how long the board has been requesting action on the five-way intersection. Resident Claire Santos responded that she has been addressing the intersection for over a decade, and someone else began in the 1990s. She noted that despite DTS’s claim of improved safety, she observed with HPD that no one stops at the intersection.
• PenseMetro Issues: Member Lee reported problems with the PenseMetro affordable housing complex at Lunalilo and Pensacola. The building has not been occupied despite being completed months ago and is attracting homeless individuals. Contact information for property management is unavailable.
District 5: Councilmember Scott Nishimoto – [0:41:25]: Heath Williams reported that funding for the Makiki Community Garden fence has been released as of September 15, 2025.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [0:42:22]:
• PenseMetro: Chuck asked for help contacting someone regarding the PenseMetro affordable housing complex. Heath offered to work on this issue.
• Dog Park Fencing: Member Kirchmann suggested combining the community garden fencing project with fencing for a dog park to potentially save money. Heath agreed to discuss this possibility with the Department of Design and Construction (DDC).
• Punahou Square Dog Park: Chair Char noted that the Punahou Square dog park fencing is now up but is very small, which may lead to future complaints.
• Traffic Safety Concerns: Member Eberhardt expressed frustration about the decade-long delay in addressing the Ward/Lunalilo intersection and the postponement to April 2026. He also asked about permitting issues.
• Makiki Community Garden Fence Project Timeline: Member Kawano asked how long it might take to install the community garden fence now that funding has been released. Heath did not have a timeline but offered to follow up.
District 6: Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam – [0:49:21]: Robin Henski reported on a little fire ant survey conducted on September 6 in Papakōlea. She shared a website with information specific to different areas, including Makiki, showing locations of little fire ant infestations. She noted that the Ward Avenue/Lunalilo Street intersection falls under the Hawaii Department of Transportation’s jurisdiction, and she will work with Heath Williams on the Pence Metro project.
7. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS – [0:52:01]
Tantalus 10-Miler Race – [0:52:02]: Steve Davidson from Mid Pacific Road Runner Club announced their annual Tantalus 10-Miler race on Sunday, October 5, 2025, early morning, going up Tantalus and down Round Top. He noted the race has been held for over ten years and registration is still open.
8. STATE OFFICIAL REPORTS – [0:53:15]
Governor Josh Green’s Representative – [1:35:26]: No representative was present at this time.
Senate District 11: Senator Carol Fukunaga – [1:11:04]: Senator Fukunaga reported on little fire ant infestations in the neighborhood. She shared that the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity and the Hawaii Ant Lab are focusing on specific areas, and the Department of Agriculture can help cover treatment costs for single-family properties with infestations this year. She noted that Makiki/Tantalus is the second-highest area for little fire ant infestations on Oahu, and the infestations are spreading from Pauoa to Nu‘uanu.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [0:55:58]:
• Agricultural Education: Arthur asked if the Department of Agriculture is educating companies that provide soil and plants about eradicating fire ants. Senator Fukunaga explained that the ants are not typically found in soil preparations but recommended segregating and testing new plants before integrating them into properties. She added that the Department of Agriculture has trained landscape companies to provide treatments.
• Ward/Lunalilo Intersection: Chair Char asked Senator Fukunaga to note the issue with the Hawaii Department of Transportation regarding the Ward/Lunalilo intersection. She agreed to follow up from the state side.
• Fire Ant Species: John asked about large fire ants that were present ten years ago. Senator Fukunaga clarified that the current concern is with very tiny fire ants.
• Fire Ant Contact Information: Member Kirchmann asked for a phone number to report fire ants. Senator Fukunaga directed him to the email address on the flyer, which provides contact information.
• Ward/Lunalilo Traffic Speed: Member Peters, who lives at the corner of Lunalilo and Ward, described traffic coming down at 40+ miles per hour and creating dangerous conditions. Senator Fukunaga acknowledged the roadway is a heavily trafficked corridor and offered to follow up with the Department of Transportation.
House District 26: Representative Della Au Belatti – [1:01:55]: No representative was present at this time.
House District 25: Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto – [1:02:02]: Kate Ozawa shared a link to Representative Iwamoto’s monthly newsletter. She reported that Representative Iwamoto and Representative Belatti held a “Legislators Listen” event at McKinley High School the previous night. She noted that representatives’ offices are beginning to draft bills, with most offices limited to drafting ten bills this year, and invited suggestions for legislation.
House District 23: Representative Ikaika Olds – [1:03:24]: Representative Olds reported that they held a “Lawmakers Listen” event on September 2, 2025. He encouraged those who haven’t submitted their survey to do so.
House District 22: Representative Andrew Garrett – [1:04:12]: Representative Garrett invited the community to attend a Disaster Preparedness Fair at Manoa Marketplace on Saturday, September 20, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The event, sponsored by Alexander & Baldwin, Bank of Hawaii, and City Mill, will feature city, state, and federal partners providing information on disaster preparation, including vertical evacuation in high-rise condo areas like Makiki.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [1:05:10]:
• Higher Education Funding: Chuck asked for updates on education initiatives. Representative Garrett, who chairs the House Higher Education Committee, explained that higher education is facing significant funding cuts, including $350 million in cuts from the federal Department of Education targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. This follows cuts to scientific grants, but the state remains committed to education investments.
• School Air Conditioning: Arthur expressed concern about expensive air conditioning systems in schools that have broken down and suggested installing portable units instead. Representative Garrett shared his disappointment with the audit findings regarding the $100 million solar-based air conditioning system and promised to monitor the situation.
• Educator Pay: Adam noted the disparity between administrative pay increases and teacher compensation. He shared that a family member who moved from Chicago to Hawaii experienced a one-third reduction in pay despite Hawaii’s higher cost of living. Representative Garrett agreed that teachers are underpaid and noted that the teachers’ contract negotiations will be led by the governor’s office next year.
• Classroom Heat: Member Peters, a substitute teacher, described extremely hot classroom conditions that force him to take classes outside to shaded areas. Representative Garrett thanked him for his service.
House District 26: Representative Della Au Belatti (CONTINUED) – [1:11:30]: Representative Belatti reported that there will not be a special legislative session in September or October, but November remains a possibility. She has been monitoring federal developments and believes a special session is needed to address civil rights issues and other matters.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [1:12:36]:
• Ward/Lunalilo Intersection: Chair Char asked if Representative Belatti could encourage the Hawaii Department of Transportation to attend next week’s special meeting. She agreed to make the request.
• School Air Conditioning: Member Eberhardt asked about air conditioning issues in public schools, noting that expensive systems were installed but many aren’t working. Representative Belatti agreed this is an egregious situation and promised to follow up, noting that even schools like McKinley High School have buildings that are difficult to rewire.
9. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS – [1:15:00]
Approval of Written Summary for Video Record: Thursday, August 21, 2025 – [1:15:03]: Nakamoto MOVED and Eberhardt SECONDED to adopt the August 21, 2025, meeting written summary. Without objection, the written summary was APPROVED; 16-0-0 (Aye: Char, Eberhardt, Silva, Nakamoto, Steelquist, Mitchell, Lee, Chan, Kawano, Peters, Witham, Kirchmann, Gallant, Dela Cruz, Salassa, and Kirby; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [1:15:18].
Pesticides Presentation – Representative Amy Perruso – [1:15:22]: Yvonne from Representative Amy Perruso’s office presented on pesticides, which are substances designed to kill or deter pests and can cause health issues, including cancer, hormone disruption, reproductive harm, nervous system damage, and kidney and liver problems. They also have environmental impacts, reducing microbial life in soil. She discussed Act 45 (2018), which established a 100-foot buffer zone around schools for restricted use pesticides during normal school hours and required annual reporting to the Hawaii Department of Agriculture. However, she noted that this protection is insufficient, as some pesticides like metam sodium can drift up to a mile. Yvonne presented a map showing higher concentrations of pesticide use in northern and central Oahu, with fewer applications in the southern and eastern regions. She advocated for better reporting systems, increased buffer zones, larger fines for illegal use, classification of neonicotinoids as restricted use pesticides, and mandated soil and water testing. She shared that Representative Perruso’s office is circulating a resolution among neighborhood boards and encouraged the board to consider it at a future meeting.
• Slideshow: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_NbjOB6eciRtOuvZJO1boLsncdNyhnPT/view
Member Depicolzuane joined the meeting at 6:35 p.m.; 17 members present.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [1:23:03]:
• Future Consideration: Richard expressed interest in taking up the resolution at the next meeting.
• Water Contamination: Adam asked about filtration of pesticides through water supply systems. Ivonne did not have specific data but offered to work with the Department of Agriculture and other departments to gather information on soil contaminants and water testing.
Walk Bike Drive Presentation – Hawaiʻi Bicycle League – [1:24:45]: Paula Bender from Hawaii Bicycle League presented a video on road safety, focusing on the “vulnerable road users” law. The presentation highlighted that traffic fatalities in 2025 have more than doubled compared to 2024. The presentation provided tips for sharing the road with cyclists, including respecting green bike boxes, allowing three feet when passing cyclists, and understanding cyclist hand signals. Bicycles can be valuable during emergency weather events when power outages occur and roads are blocked to motor vehicles.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [1:31:31]:
• Bicycle Safety Equipment: Arthur expressed concern that over 50% of bicycles he sees on King Street lack proper lighting. Paula acknowledged the importance of self-preservation and noted that Hawaii Bicycle League provides educational resources, but enforcement falls to HPD.
• Traffic Fatalities: Richard commented on the doubling of traffic fatalities with three months still remaining in the year and emphasized the need for everyone to be careful and patient on the roads.
Adopting a Resolution Urging the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) to Prioritize and Expedite the Makiki Community Garden Fence Project – [1:34:57]: Amanda Kirby questioned whether the resolution was still needed given the recent release of funding and positive communication with Councilmember Nishimoto’s office. Chair Char presented the draft resolution urging DPR to prioritize and expedite the Makiki Community Garden fence project. [1:36:30] – Chair Char MOVED and Vice Chair Steelquist SECONDED to adopt the resolution.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [1:38:25]:
• Resolution Amendments: Tom Heinrich suggested several amendments: adding the full citation to ordinance 25-039 (page 32), acknowledging that Mayor Blangiardi released the funding on September 15, 2025, and noting that the Makiki Community Garden, organized in 1974, is the first community garden in the system. He also suggested sending the resolution to both Councilmembers Nishimoto (District 5) and Dos Santos-Tam (District 6).
• Postponement of Resolution Consideration: The Board agreed to amend the resolution to include Councilmember Nishimoto as a recipient. Member Kirby agreed to revise the resolution with the suggested amendments and bring it back at the next meeting.
Discussion on Updates to Radioactive Material at Makiki District Park – [1:42:28]: Member Kirby provided information about cesium-137 buried at Makiki District Park in the 1970s. She explained that a report from the 1980s, based on verbal accounts from workers, confirmed that five pits of cesium-137 were buried in the park. Four smaller pits under the tennis courts were checked, but the largest pit in the open field between the community garden and the meeting building was never examined.
Kirby noted that cesium-137 can travel via water, raising concerns for the community garden, which is at a lower elevation than the former “rat house” (now restrooms) where radioactive materials were handled. She has requested information from the National Radiation Committee and plans to contact the Department of Health. She emphasized that while the half-life of cesium-137 is about 80 years and health risks may be limited, monitoring would be a reasonable precaution.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [1:48:09]:
• State Involvement: Representative Belatti offered to look into the issue and requested a copy of the report, suggesting this would be a joint county-state concern.
• Health Concerns: Member Kirchmann asked about potential health impacts and liability if contamination were linked to the community garden. Member Kirby explained that while health concerns might include stomach problems, the garden has operated since 1975 without apparent health issues among gardeners. She noted that the radiation might explain why the garden was never allowed to expand into the adjacent field.
Motion Requesting a Second Right-Hand Turn Lane (that is also a thru lane) from Kinau Street onto Pensacola Street – [1:51:50]: Chair Char deferred this agenda item to the special meeting scheduled for Thursday, September 25, 2025.
Establishing a Walk the District Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) – [1:52:14]: Chair Char proposed establishing a Permitted Interaction Group to walk the district and observe firsthand the locations frequently discussed at meetings. He explained that the PIG could meet as needed with up to eight board members, would generate a report to be presented at a regular board meeting, and would require board approval at a subsequent meeting. Chair Char MOVED and Witham SECONDED to form a Walk the District PIG with the following members: Chair Char, Amanda Kirby, John Steelquist, Kimberley Gallant, Linda Dela Cruz, Adam Kirchmann, and Bronson Silva. Without objection, the motion was APPROVED; 17-0-0 (Aye: Char, Eberhardt, Silva, Nakamoto, Steelquist, Mitchell, Lee, Chan, Kawano, Peters, Witham, Kirchmann, Gallant, Dela Cruz, Salassa, Depicolzuane, and Kirby; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [1:55:58].
10. BOARD/COMMUNITY REPORTS – [1:56:06]
Makiki/Lower Punchbowl Neighborhood Security Watch – [1:56:14]: Committee Chair Nakamoto announced that the next committee meeting will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. He noted that the agenda includes several good topics and invited interested individuals to attend.
O’ahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) – [1:56:43]: Chair Char noted that Steelquist had been marked absent from several OMPO meetings. Steelquist confirmed his interest in continuing as the representative and committed to attending future meetings.
11. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS – [1:57:34]
Next Regular Meeting: The Makiki/Lower Punchbowl/Tantalus Neighborhood Board No. 10 is scheduled to meet on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. at Makiki District Park (Old Makiki Community Library, 2nd Floor) and online via Webex.
Special Meeting: A special meeting focused on traffic safety issues will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Makiki District Park. The meeting will be in-person only and will include representatives from the Department of Transportation Services.
Broadcast, Social Media, and Board Info: The meetings can be viewed on ʻŌlelo FOCUS 49 on the first Friday at 9:00 p.m. and third Sunday at 3:00 p.m. (https://olelo.org/tune-in). Follow us at http://www.facebook.com/MakikiNB and visit https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/nb10 for Makiki Neighborhood Board info.
12. ADJOURNMENT – [1:58:55]: Member Peters objected to adjourning the meeting and wanted to share remarks about Thomas Square and recognizing Admiral Thomas. Chair Char stated that Member Peters’ report was not on the meeting agenda and it would be added to the October 2025 meeting agenda. [2:03:07] – Eberhardt MOVED and Steelquist SECONDED to adjourn the meeting. Without objection, Chair Char adjourned the meeting at 8:03 p.m.
Submitted by: Curtis Hayashi, Neighborhood Assistant, Neighborhood Commission Office
Reviewed by: Dylan Whitsell, Deputy, Neighborhood Commission Office
Finalized by:
To view agenda and minutes, visit our board website.
Event shows physical location; however, other options of participation may also include WebEx and phone. If available, instructions for WebEx and phone can be found at the top of the agenda.
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