MAKIKI-LOWER PUNCHBOWL-TANTALUS NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 10

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2026 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)

View Reports and Presentations: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1su4uYFuTVRMZYxBlR8WnaR0cDMcjbHjE
View Board Meeting Recordings: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfqRwVpRrookChkQxjZlnB_r8en78zV4Q

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)

5. STATE OFFICIAL REPORTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
A. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – Russell Pang (russell.wk.pang@hawaii.gov)
B. State Representative Andrew Garrett (District 22) (repgarrett@capitol.hawaii.gov)
C. Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) – Micah Kahiwa

6. 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. Councilmember Scott Nishimoto (District 5)
(https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district-5-scott-nishimoto) – Taylor Date (scott.nishimoto@honolulu.gov)
D. Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam (District 6)
(https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district-6-dos-santos-tam) – Robin Henski (tdossantos-tam@honolulu.gov)
E. Neighborhood Commission Report – Neighborhood Commission Chair Patrick Smith (https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/commission)

7. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS (Limited to 2 minutes each)
Questions for HFD, HPD, BWS, city officials, and state officials should be asked after their respective reports. 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.

New HNL 311 System: Use the HNL 311 website (HNL311.com) and mobile app to report city issues. The HNL 311 mobile app lets users report issues, manage service requests and receive notifications.

8. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS
A. Approval of Written Summary for Video Record: Thursday, January 15, 2026
Draft Written Summaries: https://www4.honolulu.gov/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-16607
B. Discussion of Fake ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) Flyers Posted near Punchbowl
C. Discussion of Honolulu City Council Bill 7, Amending Bill 53(2025), Bill 72(2025), and Legislation Related to Affordable Housing
Bill 7/Ordinance 19-8 (relating to affordable rental housing):
https://www.honolulu.gov/dpp/wp-content/uploads/sites/56/2024/07/ORD19-8.pdf
Bill 53 (2025) relating to affordable housing: https://hnldoc.ehawaii.gov/hnldoc/measure/3420
Bill 72 (2025) relating to affordable rental housing: https://hnldoc.ehawaii.gov/hnldoc/measure/3539

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-16680
B. O‘ahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) – Adam Kirchmann (adamkirchmann@gmail.com)
Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC): https://oahumpo.org/citizen-advisory-committee

10. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
Next Meeting: The Makiki/Lower Punchbowl/Tantalus Neighborhood Board No. 10 is scheduled to meet on Thursday, March 19, 2026 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 Channel 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 http://www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards.

All written testimony must be received in the Neighborhood Commission Office 48 hours prior to the meeting. If within 48 hours of the meeting, written and/or oral testimony may be submitted directly to the Board at the meeting. If submitting written testimony, please note the Board and agenda item(s) your testimony concerns. Send to: Neighborhood Commission Office, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817, fax (808) 768-3711, 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 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
THURSDAY, JANUARY 15, 2026 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=Wmn8DKac3b8&list=PLfqRwVpRrookChkQxjZlnB_r8en78zV4Q

Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1su4uYFuTVRMZYxBlR8WnaR0cDMcjbHjE

1. CALL TO ORDER [0:00:00]: Chair Char called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M.

2. ROLL CALL [0:00:12]: Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi conducted roll call. Quorum was established with 12 members present. This 17-member Board requires nine members to establish quorum and to take Board action.

Members Present: Eric Salassa (late), Nathaniel Char (Chair), Arthur Eberhardt, John Steelquist (Vice Chair), Harris Nakamoto, Samuel Mitchell, Chuck Lee, Richard Kawano, Janvier Witham (Treasurer), Adam Kirchmann, Kimberley Gallant, Nancy Depicolzuane, Amanda Kirby, and Janel Fujinaka (appointed).

Members Absent: Kahanu Chan, Linda Dela Cruz, and Bronson Silva (Secretary).

Guests: Fire Captain Daniel Goh and Firefighter Keola Hanohano-Hong (Honolulu Fire Department); Sergeant Wakabayashi (Honolulu Police Department); Russell Pang (Governor Green); Hector Venegas (Senator Fukunaga); Kailiahi Morala (Representative Au Belatti); Janel Fujinaka (Representative Iwamoto); Representative Ikaika Olds; Takemi Nakasone (Representative Garrett); Megan Johnson (Mayor Blangiardi); Heath Williams (Councilmember Nishimoto); Robin Henski and Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam (Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam); Myles Ritchie (The Outdoor Circle); Tom Heinrich, Richard Ching, Claire, Ian Ross, Selena, Adam, and Michele Luke; Curtis Hayashi (Neighborhood Commission Office). Names were not included if not legible or stated for the record.

3. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) [0:01:19]: HFD was not present at this time.

4. HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) [0:02:08]: Sergeant Wakabayashi presented December 2025 crime statistics compared to November: motor vehicle thefts 7 (down from 11), burglaries 16 (same), thefts 36 (up from 33), UEMV (unauthorized entry into motor vehicle) 7 (same), assaults 6 (down from 9), sex assaults 2 (up from 0), graffiti 0 (down from 2), drugs 1 (down from 2), motor vehicle collisions 98 (up from 92).
• Updates: Department of Transportation notified (Ward/Lunalilo lights); abandoned vehicles (3-4 week processing); Lunalilo boats/trailers removed; Lunalilo enforcement (50-70 citations/deployment); Prospect/Alapaʻi five-way stop monitored (no violations observed).
• Event: Coffee with a Cop on Tuesday, January 27 from 8 AM-10AM at the Ala Moana Starbucks
• New Year’s Eve: Better controlled fireworks; Department of Law Enforcement drone operations; injuries but no fatalities; 4 Oahu traffic deaths year-to-date (1 occupant, 3 pedestrians).

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:02:17]:
1. Five-Way Intersection Safety: Claire raised concerns about drivers not stopping at the five-way intersection.
2. New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Punchbowl: Ian noted HPD’s strong early presence in Punchbowl suppressed fireworks until officers left around 12:15 A.M., when they suddenly started. It worked initially but not long enough.
3. 1158 Lunalilo Street Issues: Nancy reported marijuana smoking at Tipsy Pig and King St. dealing. Sgt. Wakabayashi will request more checks but noted officers need eyewitness violations.

3. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) (CONTINUED) [0:16:55]: Captain Goh and Firefighter Hanohano-Hong presented December 2025 stats: couple rubbish fires, couple cooking fires, 15 motor vehicle collisions.
• Electrical safety tips: Plug heat-producing appliance (coffee makers/toasters) into wall outlet one at a time. Major appliances (refrigerators/dryers/stoves) direct to wall. No extension cords/power strips for major appliances. Check cords aren’t across doorways/under carpets.
• Fireworks and Celebrations: No significant Makiki firework incidents reported. Possible Alexander Cartwright (1st HFD chief) celebrations at Makiki District Park/baseball field.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/105t7kwf-kD6TYR0Vekw2r0V9RWsC2gTK/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:18:41]:
1. New Year’s Eve Activity: Member Kawano asked about fire activity on New Year’s Eve. Captain Go stated their shift was off duty, but he did not believe there were any firework-related incidents in Makiki, though that does not mean incidents did not happen in other neighborhoods.
2. Surge Protector Replacement: Claire noted surge suppressors should be replaced every five years. She found discoloration on hers indicating internal heating. Captain Go confirmed regular inspections for melting/discoloration. HFD advises against piggybacking surge protectors or plugging heating/cooling devices into them.
3. Condo Incidents: Claire thanked HFD for responding to incidents at her condo, including a trespasser sleeping by the elevator and an intruder who tore down their Christmas tree.

5. CHAIR’S REPORT [0:11:48]: Chair Char welcomed members for the new year. The meeting addresses elected officials’ priorities alongside Bill 7 (affordable housing program agenda item 9D). February will focus on Bill 7 if needed. As an election year, candidate forums are traditional. Bill 7 projects are active in the district.

6. STATE OFFICIAL REPORTS [0:13:36]

A. Governor Josh Green’s Representative — Russell Pang [0:13:36]: Russell Pang wished everyone Happy New Year and confirmed four Oahu traffic fatalities so far this year (one motor vehicle occupant, three pedestrians). The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) implemented Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside parking fees: $7 per vehicle for visitors, $0 for residents, $15-$50 dollars for commercial vehicles (reinvested in improvements). Governor Green’s State of the State address will be on Monday, January 26, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. (Facebook and local news). Pang had no Ward and Keeaumoku overpasses or Lunalilo Street repaving update (contract pending).

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:25:25]:
1. Pu’u Ualaka’a State Wayside Parking Concerns: Member Salassa asked about non-resident park fees creating street parking hazards on Roundtop Drive. He foresees tourist vans parking outside the gate to avoid fees. Russell will check with DLNR. He agreed they must prevent vehicles lining up outside as seen elsewhere.
2. Insurance Commission Meeting: Member Eberhardt noted there was an insurance commission hearing about a week ago, but no one from the insurance commission was there. Gordon Ito, who is the director, he thought should have been present. This is regarding not only condo insurance but homeowners’ insurance and the rate of increase that these insurance companies are charging now. Russell stated he will check on that.
3. Tantalus Drive Repaving: Richard Ching asked about Tantalus Drive and whether there are plans to pave that road, which he described as awful. Russell noted that Tantalus Drive is a city road. He can check with counterparts in the city Department of Transportation and Department of Facility Management and will pass that question along to them.
4. Jurisdictional Issues on Tantalus Drive: John noted that even though it is a city road, the trees overhanging and the valleys are state property, so it is a complex thing. He asked if there is a jurisdictional problem between the city and state on Tantalus Drive.

B. State Senator Carol Fukunaga [0:29:19]: Hector Venegas reported that Senator Fukunaga is involved in putting out a lot of last-minute legislation with deadlines coming, so tonight she could not be here. For information, the Department of Law Enforcement, through Mike Vincent, gave a report that according to estimations, the fireworks problem dropped 30%.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12WqP2ykYPUYL1NbZW5m3WRoRw5YAEpM_/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:03:05]:
1. Kupuna and Condo Issues: Member Lee commended Senator Fukunaga as a champion for kupuna (seniors). He highlighted her newsletter’s call for input to protect fixed-income condo owners. She invites owners, board members, managers, and residents to share ideas for fair solutions to Hawaii’s condo community challenges.

C. State Representative Della Au Belatti [0:03:25]: Kailiahi (legislative aide) reported Good Governance Day where legislators met with HAPA, Common Cause Hawaii, and Our Hawaii to improve elections and reduce corruption. Representative Au Belatti plans bills against corporate money (Citizens United) and for bribery investigation transparency. Representative Au Belatti discussed immigration on KITV and HPR, sharing updates via Instagram/newsletters. As Public Safety chair, she co-convenes the restrictive housing group with Senator Fukunaga, following up on solitary confinement legislation.
• Slideshow: https://drive.google.com/file/d/18CSTh_-OFjrx6y7tTgswc1_X7yR7AQEk/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:03:61]:
1. Radioactive Material at Makiki District Park: Member Kirby noted September’s discussion about decades-old radioactive material at Makiki District Park. She contacted Representative Au Belatti’s office during their transition. Kailiahi will ensure they have her email and follow up on the pits.
2. Bribery Investigation: Member Lee asked why the Attorney General investigation continues slowly. Kailiahi said it has lasted four years. They seek only the name, not a parallel investigation.
3. Urgency of Investigation: Member Salassa urged swift resolution of the bribery investigation. He said public confidence in legislators requires knowing who took the money and holding them accountable.
4. ICE Enforcement: Richard Ching urged people not to impede federal officers executing warrants. Kailiahi noted Representative Au Belatti supports the Oahu Rapid Response Coalition, which trains volunteers to legally observe ICE operations while ensuring officer safety.
5. ICE Oversight: Michele Luke asked who monitors ICE compliance in Hawaii. Kailiahi cited the Oahu Rapid Response Coalition, which films operations. They seek anti-masking legislation and will follow up with more details via email.
6. ICE Accountability: Member Kirchmann noted Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was created post-9/11 with minimal oversight. He urged the public to better understand agency accountability.
7. State Legislature Opening Day: Opening Day is Tuesday, January 21, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. Kailiahi reminded everyone to come up for Opening Day and meet their legislators. The office will be in Office 420.

D. State Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto’s Office [0:45:02]: Janel Fujinaka (legislative assistant) shared the Kailua Neighborhood Board’s House Resolution 38 urging immediate action on the bribery investigation. Representative Iwamoto plans four bills: (1) misdemeanor for failure to report bribery; (2) millionaire surtax on high earners; (3) law enforcement identification requirements to prevent Immigration and Customs Enforcement overreach; (4) condominium education trust funds recognizing owners as primary stakeholders. She collaborates with Representative Au Belatti’s and Senator Fukunaga’s offices on Consumer Protection, Good Governance Caucus, and Public Safety Committees.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:48:08]:
1. Condo Governance Concerns: Claire noted she has a 21% increase in her mortgage and 18% increase in her HOA fees. Janel responded that Representative Iwamoto encourages residents to testify at bill hearings. Their voices are strong, and legislators want to hear from the community. The Capitol website has been upgraded with notification features for hearings.
2. Board Resolution Process: Member Adam Kirchmann inquired about the process for the board to draft a resolution similar to the Kailua Neighborhood Board. Janel explained it can be introduced per Neighborhood Board rules.

E. State Representative Ikaika Olds [0:51:55]: Representative Olds joined the meeting remotely from a nearby event. He presented on several homeless-related bills:
• The Safe Entryway Bill creates a 10-foot radius bubble in front of commercial businesses and residences preventing domiciling or storing property in public space.
• The Safe Bus Stop Bill prevents domiciling within 20 feet of a bus stop.\
• The Safe Waterway Bill prevents domiciling on or directly around fresh waterways leading to the ocean. This addresses waterways feeding into the Ala Wai, where two of three have active homeless encampments.
Regarding condo issues, Representative Olds agrees condominiums are “little governments” and need regulation, as bad condo boards can make or break everything.

F. State Representative Andrew Garrett’s Office [0:54:41]: Takemi reported that Representative Garrett is out of town. A newsletter will be sent about a week after Opening Day detailing bills to be introduced. He requested an opportunity at the February meeting to introduce the bills.

G. Office of Hawaiian Affairs: No report.

7. CITY REPORTS [0:56:30]

A. Board of Water Supply (BWS) [0:56:30]: No report.

B. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative [0:56:43]: Deputy Director Megan Johnson submitted a written report with responses to questions from the November meeting. The new HNL 311 system launched December 1, 2025 (note: likely should be 2025). It is more intuitive and easier to navigate. Residents can submit requests via mobile app (Apple or Android) or website at HNL311.com. Regarding 1158 Lunalilo Street, the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) reported that an adequate determination for an affordable rental project was mailed. No plans have been uploaded, and no approved demolition permit has been issued. HPD will continue to monitor the location. Regarding 1617 Alakea Street, DPP reported that building permits for demolition of front and rear structures were issued April 15, 2025. As of January 7, 2026, building and stormwater inspections are pending.
Questions were raised about a permit possibly issued in August allowing work to proceed while the building permit was under review, public access to DPP records being difficult (conflicting information about in-person vs. email requests, 10-day response time), and whether the demolition permit is contingent on the building permit for new construction. A question was raised about the PenseMetro project regarding an empty project with a water sprinkler system issue.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gIlTaZ4Pa64s1nEAWcw5n7lY4RMwCuJw/view?usp=drive_link

C. Councilmember Scott Nishimoto [1:05:38]: Heath Williams announced that the off-leash dog park at Punahou Square opened at the corner of Punahou and Wilder. It is closed Tuesday mornings for routine maintenance. Thanks to the city, mayor, and Department of Parks and Recreation.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Landscaping Concerns at Dog Park: Member Salassa requested landscaping improvements including tree removal (smaller trees, not the large historic tree) for more light to help grass growth. Currently it is dirt, roots, and leaves.

D. Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam [1:08:33]: Robin Henski noted that Bill 72 (Bill 7) allows affordable rental projects in business zoning districts, updates loading requirements, and simplifies development standards. Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam will attend to answer questions. Bill 73 relates to traffic code modernization to update traffic and vehicle regulations and make roadways better serve all users.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aosPIb6-KT65OC1I7j7WFo1MQ6kksa5N/view?usp=drive_link

8. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS [1:10:47]:
1. Five-Way Intersection: Claire Santos reported that flashing lights on stop signs at the Prospect/Alapaʻi five-way intersection are to be installed by March per the City’s DTS (Department of Transportation Services).
2. Bill 7 Projects: Claire expressed concerns about irresponsible building. Structures are being built too close together, blocking garden lanais and preventing solar panel charging.

9. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS [1:13:25]

A. Filling One Vacant At-Large Seat [1:13:28]: [1:15:16] Member Lee nominated Richard Ching. [1:15:35] Member Kirchmann nominated Fujinaka. The two candidates introduced themselves.
• Richard Ching: Richard Ching lives on Green Street near the problem property at 1427 Ernest. He is Scoutmaster for Troop 10 Makiki and Cubmaster for Pack 10. He started a girl troop. The feeder school is Aliiolani Elementary. Ching is active in the community.
• Janel Fujinaka: Janel Fujinaka is a former board member who resigned due to out-of-island training and emergency services. She is now back on island and available. She is with the Civil Air Patrol (US Air Force Auxiliary), is an MBA student at Grand Canyon University, has a background in public administration, worked with the Navy Closure Task Force Red Hill, and is currently a legislative assistant for Representative Iwamoto (session ends approximately May 5). She lives on Pensacola Street and has lived in Makiki for 6 years, is originally from Hawaii, and is a Kaiser High School graduate. Member Eberhardt asked if there are any Neighborhood Board rules prohibiting a City or State representative’s staff member from becoming a Neighborhood Board member. There are no rules prohibiting staff members of an elected official from becoming a Neighborhood Board member.

[1:19:15] Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi conducted a roll call vote and Janel Fujinaka was appointed as a board member; 11-2 (Fujinaka: Depicolzuane, Eberhardt, Gallant, Kawano, Kirby, Kirchmann, Mitchell, Nakamoto, Steelquist, Witham, and Char; Ching: Lee and Salassa). Janel Fujinaka took the oath of office; 13 members present.

B. Approval of Written Summaries for Video Record: Thursday, October 16, 2025 and Thursday, November 20, 2025: Minutes for Thursday, October 16, 2025 and Thursday, November 20, 2025 were approved as amended. Members requested removing Richard Kawano’s name from the October 16, 2025 minutes (page 3, Board Business section and page 4, Hurt 100 Trail Run vote) as he was absent.

C. Exceptional Tree Program Presentation: Myles Ritchie, Chair of the Arborist Advisory Committee for City and County of Honolulu and Program Director for The Outdoor Circle, presented on Hawaii’s Exceptional Tree Program.
• The program began in 1975 (50th anniversary in May 2025) and was enacted by the state legislature to recognize and conserve Hawaii’s most iconic tree specimens. It is implemented by four counties through a mayor-appointed arborist advisory committee. The primary role is to receive nominations and determine if trees should be protected.
• Selection Criteria (must meet one or more): historical/cultural value, age, rarity, location, size, aesthetic quality, and endemic status.
• Protections: Trees cannot be removed unless threatened to public safety or die at the end of their natural lifespan. In 2004, a $3,000 tax deduction every three years per exceptional tree for maintenance on private property was established.
• Nomination Process: Anyone can nominate. Property owners must sign off on the nomination form. Nomination forms are available at the City and County of Honolulu website and Outdoor Circle website. Many trees are on military property. More trees on public and private land need to be nominated. Many original trees are aging out and need to replenish the pipeline. Development pressures require protecting existing trees and planning the next generation.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Nomination Process: Member Fujinaka asked about the nomination process. Myles explained the public can nominate trees on their property or others’ property. For private property, the nominator should ideally talk to the homeowner first. The committee works with parties involved.
2. Tree Removal: Member Mitchell asked about a tree cut down at Pensacola and Wilder that was partially on state and county land. Myles explained that if on private property, the owner is entitled to remove it if not on the exceptional list. There needs to be discussion on community input requirements.
3. Tree Species Guidance: Claire requested guidance on tree species for an empty space at her property after 40-year-old trees were removed.

D. Discussion on Honolulu City Council Legislation: Bill 7 (Ordinance 19-8 Relating to Affordable Rental Housing), Bill 53 (2025) Relating to Affordable Housing, and Bill 72 (2025) Relating to Affordable Rental Housing: Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam presented the following information:
• Housing Challenge Context: The island needs more housing for local families. For example, there are 400 seniors at Roosevelt High School and 400 at McKinley. If all married in 10 years, that would require 400 new units just for those students. The annual housing need continues with each graduating class.
• Current Zoning (A-2 Apartment Zone in Makiki): Setbacks are 10 feet front and 5-10 feet side. Height is 150 feet in much of Makiki (varies: 40, 60, 90 feet in other areas). Off-street parking is NOT required (as of 2020). Existing zoning is very restrictive, leading developers to seek alternative pathways.
• Bill 7 Program: Bill 7 created an alternative pathway for affordable rental projects. About 1,000 new units have been created around the island, which is nowhere near what is needed. Issues identified include projects sometimes not near bus routes, setback concerns, and parking concerns.
• Bill 53 (not introduced by Councilman Dos Santos-Tam): Bill 53 would require 1 off-street parking space per 2 units (above the current zoning requirement of zero) and would require a resident manager (above the current zoning requirement). Both are expensive requirements creating concern.
• Bill 72 (introduced by Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam): Bill 72 creates incentives for projects near major bus lines (buses every 16 minutes). There is a bonus if within 1,250 feet of a major bus line (e.g., #1 and #2 buses on McCully, Kalihi/Palama). It eliminates duplicate/meaningless regulations and simplifies tables and standards.
• Technical Details Discussed: Maximum lot coverage was originally 80%, but setbacks effectively limit it to 76.5% for a standard lot. Maximum lot size was originally 20,000 square feet, but zero apartment-zoned undeveloped lots that large exist in urban Honolulu. Regarding permitting challenges, an alternative inspection pathway allows construction while DPP catches up. Some Bill 7 projects finished building (6-9 months) before DPP finished permitting.
• 201H Process (State): This is a separate process allowing developers to negotiate directly with state/county. It is less preferred than clear rules like Bill 7. The Alexander Street project and Ward/Pensacola projects used this process.
• Affordability Calculations: The federal standard is that housing costs should not exceed 30% of income. A couple making $100,000 per year would spend $30,000 per year on housing, which equals $2,500 per month. Area Median Income (AMI) percentages determine affordability levels. People want “affordable for people in neighborhood,” but federal programs (Section 8) face resident manager requirements and neighborhood resistance.

Community Concerns Raised:
1. Member Kirchmann (resident manager on Pensacola Street) noted two Bill 7 buildings nearby are not finished/occupied, with two more coming. His concerns include economic predators, lack of oversight, residents deserving dignity/equity (resident managers), parking (bike lane removed street parking, 200 residents with no parking), children’s safety, local economy benefit, rent money leaving the community, enforcement of restrictions, and timeframe of restrictions.
2. Member Kirby raised concerns about lot coverage reduction due to heavy rain. She wants permeable surface mitigation bonuses (green roofs, water features).
3. Member Eberhardt cited an example where low-rent housing was replaced with towers (only 20% affordable). He raised concerns about air rights sales allowing building beyond height limits and high density impacts (outflow vs. inflow population).
4. Claire described a neighbor building on Ward/Lunalilo where setback reductions allowed fires between buildings. There are no lanais, solar panels are blocked, and there is high density in a small area.
5. Member Salassa stated there is a need for transparency on what existing structures were replaced, what was actually gained vs. lost in the community, and noted these are not apples-to-apples comparisons.
6. Richard Ching stated he is not against affordable housing but wants it affordable for neighborhood people. He suggests Section 8 housing with resident managers instead of developer profits.
7. Michele Luke stated Bill 7 relaxed building codes (setbacks) meant for life safety. The fire department and first responders are concerned. There is no neighborhood board input requirement. There is a 15-year property tax exemption and 15-year infrastructure cost exemption (taxpayers pay). There is no financial accountability. Developers like Mr. Lam can hold for 15 years then convert to market rate. Foreign investment is invited. Bill 7 needs fixing before expanding.

Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam Responses:
• Regarding parking, even without Bill 7, A-2 zoning has zero off-street parking requirement. Parking is expensive to build. This is a bigger question than Bill 7.
• Regarding resident managers, it is a challenge to require for Bill 7 when not required under regular zoning. Federal affordable housing programs have different requirements.
• Regarding permitting, DPP issues need fixing. The mayor’s electronic system has been criticized. Alternative pathways were created due to underlying restrictive zoning.
• Regarding affordability, it is based on federal AMI calculations, not arbitrary standards. The 30% of income standard is used. There is a need to keep creating housing or rents will increase.
• Economic realities involve carrots and sticks. Carrots work when housing is being built.
• Next Steps: Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam will return to the February 2026 Neighborhood Board meeting for continued discussion. Members were asked to send questions to the Chair, who will compile and forward them to Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam.

10. BOARD/COMMUNITY REPORTS

A. Nice Neighborhoods Committee: The next meeting is Monday, January 26, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. at the Representative Iwamoto’s office. There is a hub event on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at the Honolulu Museum of Art for the start of discussion and planning for the Resilience Hub Plan.

B. Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) Citizen Advisory Committee: Members Adam Kirchmann, Harris Nakamoto, and John Steelquist attended the last meeting. The Chair will compile a thorough report for the March meeting, as February is dedicated to Bill 7 discussion.

11. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS: The Makiki/Lower Punchbowl/Tantalus Neighborhood Board No. 10 is scheduled to meet next on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 6:00 P.M. at Makiki District Park (Old Community Library Building, 2nd Floor) and online via WebEx.
Meetings can be viewed on Olelo FOCUS Channel 49 on the first Friday at 9:00 P.M. and the third Sunday at 3:00 P.M.
Follow the Board at www.facebook.com/MakikiNB and visit www8.honolulu.gov/nco/nb10 for Makiki Neighborhood Board information.

12. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:00 P.M.

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