NU‘UANU – PUNCHBOWL NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 12

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2026, 7:00 P.M.

Join by web conference:
Meeting link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=mc7a7040282033e0d2de2bc5b0070f6b9
Meeting number/Access code: 2497 187 9026
Password: NB12 (6212 from phones and video systems)
Join by phone: +1-408-418-9388 United States Toll
Please ensure that your computer or phone is muted unless you are speaking.
Join at the Physical location: Kapālama Hale 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Room 153, Honolulu, HI 96817
*This is an alternative meeting location open to public participation.

Meeting Materials: Find a monthly archive of handouts and referenced materials concerning to the Nuʻuanu Neighborhood Board No.12 at:
Board Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Th_r5SpEofyVf6k1XoeuiP9z_Xfa77xN
Board Meeting Recordings: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice/search?query=Nuʻuanu

Rules of Speaking: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to raise his/her hand, and when recognized by the Chair, to address comments to the Chair. Our public and elected officials giving reports are encouraged to keep their comments to less than three (3) minutes, board member’s comments limited to two minutes for each order of business, presenters are limited to 10 (ten) minutes for the presentation portion and community member input is limited to two (2) minutes per participant. Please silence all electronic devices.
Note: The Board may take action on any agenda item. As required by the State Sunshine Law (HRS Ch. 92), specific issues not noted on this agenda cannot be voted on, unless added to the agenda. A two-thirds (2/3) vote (10) of this 15-member Board is needed to add an item to the agenda. Adding an item to the agenda, however, is not permitted if (1) the item to be added is of reasonably major importance and (2) action on the item by the board will affect a significant number of persons. Determination of whether a specific matter may be added to an agenda must be done on a case-by-case basis.

I. CALL TO ORDER – Rae Gee, Chair

II. ROLL CALL – Zhoydell Magaoay, Neighborhood Assistant

III. STATUS REPORTS – Three (3) minutes maximum, questions to follow.
Reports can be found on the board’s shared drive:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Y5eCxbwTKi-vMx3VSZYqwwhbV_WumRpq
A. Honolulu Fire Department (HFD)
1. May 2026 report found on the NB#12 shared drive.
B. Honolulu Police Department (HPD)
1. District 1 Report – Central Oʻahu (Downtown Honolulu, Liliha Street (below School Street), Punahou Street (Roundtop Drive – Ala Moana Beach & Aloha Tower, & Pali Highway)
2. District 5 Report – Kalihi (Āliamanu to the Pali Highway (west to east) and from the rim of the Koʻolau Range to the central southeastern shoreline of Oʻahu.)
C. Neighborhood Security Watch/Community Policing Report – Paula Kurashige
D. Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Jimmy Yanos
1. Dowsett Avenue/Puiwa Road Water System Improvement (WSI) Project update
2. 2800 Pacific Heights Road BWS Water Tank – Update of the grass restoration.

IV. BOARD VACANCIES – Subdistricts 1 (Punchbowl) and Subdistrict 2 (Pacific Heights/Pauoa/ Papakōlea) Invitation to the public to serve and call for candidates to volunteer.
A. There are four (4) vacant positions for Subdistrict 1 (Punchbowl). Appointment is through June 2027, three minutes per candidate.
B. There is one (1) vacant position in Subdistrict 2. Appointment is through June 2027. Community update.

V. REPORTS FROM NON-BOARD EVENTS – Brief announcements by board members and the public on events, activities and general information directly relating to the Nuʻuanu Punchbowl neighborhood areas.
A. Papakōlea Community Updates – Mike Lum/Lilia Kapuniai
B. Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization Statewide Transportation Project Updates – no update.

VI. RESIDENTS’/COMMUNITY CONCERNS – Limited to three (3) minutes each.
A. Nuʻuanu Valley Park – Requests sent to the City Department of Parks and Recreation – resident Mike Ellis
(1) Park’s pathway lights change request from high-pressure sodium to LED CIP project update;
(2) Hau Tree & Monkey Pod Tree Canopy Trimming – DPR Division Urban Forestry Division
(11/10/25 request) Update; and,
(3) Map of the Park vs Queen Emma Summer Palace Properties to determine landscape and
maintenance responsibilities.
B. 2502/2424 Pacific Heights Road Sidewalk/Drainage repair update – resident Beatrice Ku
C. Pali Highway/Pacific Heights Road Highway 61 S. Kuakini Street Off-Ramp Turn Around – Rubbish Dumpster Noise Issue – residents near 1912 Pacific Heights Road
D. 3148 Alika Avenue Stream Grate Hazard to Ducks State Jurisdiction – Paula Kurashige

VII. OFFICIAL’S REPORTS – Limited to five (5) minutes each, reports should relate to issues of interest to residents of the Nuʻuanu and Punchbowl areas.
A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – Director Kim Hashiro
B. Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam – Lisa Leonardo
C. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – Kayla Setzler
D. District 13 Senator Karl Rhoads
E. District 27 Representative Jenna Takenouchi
F. Federal Elected Officers & Other Elected Officials
G. Office of Hawaiian Affairs Update

VIII. MEETING MINUTES
A. Approval of the draft meeting minutes for the following meetings: February 17, 2026; April 21, 2026; and, May 19, 2026.

IX. PROJECT INTRODUCTION – Ten (10) minutes per speaker. Questions to follow. Discussion or action as needed.
A. 2041 Pūowaina Drive Residential Project – A brief introduction of the concept of a residential project by Mike Ferry

X. BOARD BUSINESS – For discussion/action. Five (5) minutes per item.
A. Update on the Pali Highway Transportation Projects – Ryan Nakata, Department of Transportation (DOT)
1. Wood Street Crosswalk Noise Issue & Study Scheduling and Update – resident Mark Oyama
2. Pali Highway and Wood Street Crosswalk 4-inch High Curb Trip Hazard Design Team Update – resident Pat Taira
3. Pali Highway Crosswalk Flashing Pedestrian Beacons Installation Project Status – resident Pat Taira
4. DOT Traffic Delineators & the Potential Switch to a Different Material.
5. 2024 Pali Highway Resurfacing Project Update – ADA Sidewalks Compliance Assessment Report findings
6. Pali Highway Rockfall Safety – Pauoa Road/2004 Pacific Heights Road/Highway 61 On-Ramp Kailua-bound Direction request for DOT to mitigate future rockfalls
B. Punchbowl Cesspools Projects Update – Mike Lum

XI. ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. Next Regular Board Meeting- The Nuʻuanu-Punchbowl Neighborhood Board No. 12 will hold its next virtual meeting on July 21, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

XII. 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, Hawaiʻi 96817, by telephone on (808) 768-3710, fax (808) 768-3711, or e-mailing 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 or complete the form on https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/board-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.

Subdistrict 1: Starting at the Tantalus Drive Bridge (over Kanahā), north along the Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve Boundary, thence west along the Forest Reserve Boundary to its northwest corner, thence southwest in a straight line just south of Kekuanonii Street to Pauoa Stream, thence west along Pauoa Stream to the bridge at Lusitana Street, thence along Lusitana to Pauoa Road, thence northwest on Pauoa Road to Pacific Heights Road, thence southwest along Pacific Heights Road to Kuakini Street and northwest along Kuakini to Nuʻuanu Avenue, thence southwest on Nuʻuanu Avenue to the H-1 Freeway, thence southeast along the H-1 Freeway to Pele Street, thence east on Pele Street and continuing to the rim of Punchbowl Crater, thence east along the rim of Punchbowl Crater to a line connecting the rim and the southwest corner of Stevenson Intermediate School, thence southeasterly along that connecting line to Prospect Street, thence east along Prospect Street to Nehoa Street, thence east along Nehoa Street to ʻAuwaiolimu Street, thence north on ʻAuwaiolimu Street to Kahanā Stream, thence north along Kahanā Stream to the Tantalus Drive Bridge along the Forest Reserve Boundary.

Subdistrict 2: Beginning at the junction point of the Koʻolau Ridge and a ridge (Puʻu Konahuanui), south along the face of the ridge on the east side of Pauoa Flats, thence south along the Forest Reserve Boundary to Pauoa Stream, thence west along Pauoa Stream to the intersection of Pauoa Road and Pali Highway, thence north on Pali Highway to the Nuʻuanu Stream Bridge, then in a northern direction to Bluff Ridge following a path between Pacific Heights and Nuʻuanu Valley, thence north along Bluff Ridge (following a path between Pacific Heights and Nuʻuanu Valley, thence north along Bluff Ridge) to the Koʻolau Range.

Subdistrict 3: From the northern crest of the Koʻolau Range south to Kapālama-Waolani Stream Divide (ridge) to Waolani Stream, then in a straight line east to ʻAhi Place, thence east on ʻAhi Place to Nuʻuanu Avenue, thence south on Nuʻuanu Avenue to Kuakini Street, thence east on Kuakini to Pacific Heights Road, thence north along Pacific Heights Road to Pauoa Road, thence west along Pauoa Road to Pali Highway, thence north on Pali Highway to Nuʻuanu Stream Bridge, thence in a northern direction to Bluff Ridge following a path between Pacific Heights and Nuʻuanu Valley, and north along Bluff Ridge to the Koʻolau Range.

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
TUESDAY, MAY 19, 2026 at 7:00 P.M.
KAPĀLAMAʻ HALE 925 DILLINGHAM BOULEVARD, ROOM 153, HONOLULU, HI 96817 AND VIA WEBEX TELECONFERENCING

Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1Ri5EMwE9E

Reports and other meeting materials can be found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Th_r5SpEofyVf6k1XoeuiP9z_Xfa77xN

CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:40]: Chair Rae Gee called the Nuʻuanu-Punchbowl Neighborhood Board No. 12 meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Quorum was established with eight (8) members present. Note: This 15-member Board requires eight (8) members to establish quorum and to take official board action.

ROLL CALL – [0:00:55]: Neighborhood Assistant Melissa Urubio conducted roll call.

Members Present: Secretary Jill Easley Allen, Audrey Hidano, Paula Kurashige, Kaulana Lee, Chair Rae Gee, Larry Smith, Patrick Smith, Kathy Grebe

Members Absent: Vice Chair Michael Lum, Sylvia Young

Guests: Firefighter Lokahi Kanahele (Honolulu Fire Department – HFD, Nuʻuanu Station); Sergeant Richmond Casabar (Honolulu Police Department – HPD District 1); Sergeant Edward Tabanera (HPD District 5); Jimmy Yanos (Board of Water Supply – BWS); Kim Hashiro (Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Office); Lisa Leonardo (Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam’s Office); Kayla Setzler (Governor Josh Green’s Office); Representative Jenna Takenouchi; Luisa Sinipata, Mike Ellis, Jordan Kapono Nakamura, Lei Ahu Isa, Ronald Higa, Tricia Nakamatsu, Gary Kikuchi, SA (Guests/Residents); Melissa Urubio (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: The names of any attendees who were illegible were not included. There were approximately 28 total participants.

STATUS REPORTS – [0:04:16]
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – [0:04:36]: Firefighter Lokahi Kanahele reported the following April 2026 statistics.
April 2026 Statistics: There was one (1) nuisance fire, four (4) activated alarms with no fire, forty-three (43) medical emergencies, one (1) motor vehicle crash, two (2) mountain rescues, and one (1) hazardous materials incident.
Fire Safety Tip – Wildfire Prevention and Preparedness: Hawaiʻi is entering a period of increased fire risk with dry conditions, tall grass, and shifting winds. Most wildfires are human caused and preventable. Tips include: clean dry brush and vegetation around your home; never park on dry grass; avoid activities that create sparks or heat during dry, hot, and windy weather; stay aware of weather and fire conditions. For more information, visit www.fire.honolulu.gov and www.hawaiiwildfire.org.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Wpvd_KFKAxavzdqNpP2SvblEyLUiccOS/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:07:02]
1. Dry Brush/Fire Hazard on Neighboring Properties: Member Kurashige asked what can be done when neighboring properties have excessive dry debris, thick bushes, and hedges that pose a fire hazard and the neighbors refuse to address it. For private property situations without a homeowner’s association, options are limited; however, the Captain committed to researching the matter further and will follow up through community contact Melissa. Residents seeking more information may also visit Fire Station 5 directly.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – District 1 (Central) – [0:11:00]: Sergeant R. Casabar reported the following statistics. There was no criminal report at this time.
April 2026 Statistics: There were three (3) motor vehicle thefts (previous: 3), one (1) burglary (previous: 4), four (4) thefts (previous: 2), one (1) unauthorized entry into motor vehicle – UEMV (previous: 0), one (1) graffiti case (no change), One (1) drug case (no change), 14 motor vehicle collisions (previous: 23), and 579 total calls for service (previous: 585).
Safety Tip: May is graduation month and kids will be on summer break. The community is asked to slow down, pay attention to pedestrians, reduce cell phone use while driving, and designate sober drivers at graduation parties.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:12:48]
1. Scam Awareness for Seniors: Member Kurashige asked whether there is a resource list for seniors regarding current scams in the area. Sergeant Casabar advised that scam calls — including those from people impersonating law enforcement and threatening arrest over unpaid warrants — are ongoing. He advised residents to call 911 to report scams, and that officers will respond and document the complaint.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – District 5 (Kalihi/Pali Corridor) – [0:14:58]: Sergeant Tabanera reported the following statistics for the Nuʻuanu/Liliha area.
April 2026 Statistics: There were four (4) auto thefts (previous: 1), one (1) burglary (no change), two (2) robbery cases (previous: 0), three (3) simple assaults (previous: 2), 10 theft cases (previous: 8), one (1) auto theft/car break-in (previous: 3), and 855 total calls for service (previous: 779).
Safety Tip: Officers will conduct enforcement for vehicle restraints and mobile electronic device use during May. Residents are encouraged to use seatbelts and child restraints. Graduating students are reminded to celebrate safely.
District 5 Coffee with a Cop: June 12th at the Kalihi Shopping Center Starbucks, 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Board members and the public are invited to attend.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:17:31]
1. Flower Thefts: Member Kurashige reported an ongoing pattern of individuals, linked by license plate holders stamped with a crown and the word “Blessed,” stealing flowers and plants from yards in the Pelekane/Wood Street area. Four vehicles are now involved, with plate YCS-889 added to the previously reported YAB-246. She asked how to share photos with police outside of 311, and Sergeant Tabanera advised that officers will check for prior complaints on the plate numbers and noted that enforcement on private property requires a homeowner representative to sign a complaint, though all calls are documented.
2. Speeding on Pelekane Street – 15 MPH Zone: Member Kurashige reported that vehicles are speeding through the 15 MPH zone on Pelekane Street, which also has a school zone previously at 25 MPH and now changed to 20 MPH. She requested increased police presence in the area at all hours. Sergeant Tabanera stated he would verify the speed registry with the city to ensure the 15 MPH limit is properly documented before enforcement can be conducted. Officers will be sent to observe and monitor the area.
3. Speeding Enforcement and Speed Camera Status on Pali Highway: Resident Ellis asked about speeding enforcement and speed cameras on Pali Highway. Sergeant Tabanera could not provide statistics due to a system reconfiguration but will follow up next month, noting cameras fall under the Traffic Division. Representative Takenouchi confirmed the only current speed camera is a pilot near School Street, with a recently passed but unsigned bill that would allow DOT to expand the program permanently; she is advocating for Pali Highway as a future site and will verify whether a second device at Country Club Road is a speed camera or sensor. Member Smith urged proper data retention and privacy policies for any future cameras, which Representative Takenouchi confirmed would be required under the new bill.

Neighborhood Security Watch / Community Policing Report – [0:17:51]: Member Kurashige raised her report during the questions, comments, and concerns portion of the HPD District 5 Report.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [0:38:51]: Jimmy Yanos of the Board of Water Supply clarified that the Dowsett Avenue/Puiwa Road project involves a revised, not new, design — updating water service lateral fittings for better corrosion protection. No rebidding is required, and the change was not due to engineer error but rather lessons learned from other projects and input from BWS operations. Component compatibility has been confirmed with input from suppliers, manufacturers, and design consultants. Stream grate installation and maintenance falls under the City’s Department of Facility Maintenance, not BWS. Dye tablets are available at the BWS Public Service Building at 630 South Beretania Street and at City Mill. No main breaks were reported for April 2026. BWS also highlighted its Water Sensible Rebate Program, offering up to $200 per WaterSense-labeled toilet, which uses 1.28 gallons per flush or less and can save up to 13,000 gallons annually; the rebate was doubled with support from the City’s Department of Environmental Services and more information is available at www.boardofwatersupply.com/rebates.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-800a33TiDiREC7ZfAq_4yVEJg3_5QaZ/view?usp=drive_link

Member Easley Allen departed at 7:39 p.m., reducing attendance to seven (7) members and resulting in loss of quorum.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:44:05]
1. Water Pipe Noise on Wood Street: Member Kurashige reported a roaring noise occurring at approximately 12:00 a.m., 12:20 a.m., 1:20 a.m., 2:20 a.m., 3:20 a.m., and 4:20 a.m. that sounds like rushing water under and around her home on Wood Street, preventing sleep. Yanos stated he would take the concern back to BWS and follow up.
2. Grass Regrowth at Pacific Heights Water Tank: Member Grebe reported that the grass at the BWS water tank on Pacific Heights Road has become overgrown with high weeds. Yanos acknowledged the site is being monitored and in early regrowth phase. He committed to following up on the current status.
3. Dye Tablet Availability for Absent Residents: Resident Jordan Kapono Nakamura asked whether dye tablets are available to residents who were not present at the meeting. Yanos confirmed they can be picked up at the BWS Public Service Building at 630 South Beretania Street.

BOARD VACANCIES – Subdistricts 1 & 2 – [0:49:30]: Chair Gee invited the public to serve. Subdistrict 1 (Punchbowl): Four (4) vacant positions. Appointment through June 2027. No candidates came forward.
Subdistrict 2 (Pacific Heights/Pauoa/Papakōlea): One (1) vacant position. Appointment through June 2027. No candidates came forward.

Conversion of Vacant Seats from Subdistricts to At-Large Vacancies – Discussion [0:51:13]: Member Smith explained that the Board can request the Neighborhood Commission to convert vacant subdistrict seats to at-large positions, allowing any resident within the full district to run. The conversion can be temporary (through June 2027) or permanent. This is a common occurrence for boards with difficulty filling positions. Member Kurashige confirmed this Board has not previously had at-large seats. Member Grebe expressed concern that subdistrict areas may go underrepresented. No action was taken; item to remain on the agenda for continued discussion.

REPORTS FROM NON-BOARD EVENTS – [0:57:37]
Papakōlea Community Updates – [0:57:44]: Vice Chair Lum was not present. No update available. Item deferred to next meeting.

Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Updates – [0:58:05]: Chair Gee reported that the MPO did not hold a meeting this month. No report available.

RESIDENTS’/COMMUNITY CONCERNS – [0:58:13]
1. Nuʻuanu Valley Park – Tree Maintenance, Lighting, and Hau Tree Canopy: Chair Gee summarized a Department of Urban Forestry (DURF/DPR) response to a May 11 request by Resident Mike Ellis, noting no immediate safety threats were found but that maintenance pruning is expected by end of July 2026, which may also resolve a lighting issue; removal is only warranted for dead or dying trees, and DURF will coordinate with the Daughters of Hawaiʻi on hau tree ownership and maintenance. Ellis acknowledged receipt, confirmed contact with the trimming contractor, and raised concerns about a monkey pod tree on the mauka side of the parking lot with a tilting root system and ground hump suggesting structural instability, a tree that fell in the park the previous night, and hau tree growth now within three feet of the pickleball/basketball court fence — noting Queen Emma Summer Palace has begun trimming their ʻewa side and requesting the City address the park side. Chair Gee encouraged Ellis to work directly with DURF using the provided email contact.

2. Pacific Heights Road – Sidewalk/Drainage Repair Update (2502/2424 Pacific Heights Road): Chair Gee read written testimony from Resident Keala Chock, whose property below 2407 Pacific Heights Drive is threatened by an erosional gully and possible tension cracking worsened by recent Kona Low storms, posing immediate safety concerns for parked vehicles and homes, and risking retaining wall destabilization if left unaddressed; Chock requested a city inspection and corrective action. Members Grebe and Smith noted the drainage problem likely stems from a prior paving project that partially blocked drainage channels, potentially compounded by previous BWS contractor work. Chair Gee requested through the NCO that the issue be considered as a capital improvement project and noted the item has been referred to DFM, with the matter remaining on the agenda.

3. Pali Highway/Pacific Heights Road Off-Ramp – Rubbish Dumpster Noise Issue: Chair Gee reported that Department of Environmental Services (ENV) indicated private dumpster contractor noise falls outside their jurisdiction, referring the matter to the Department of Health, and noted a 2022 bill by Councilmember Calvin Say that would have restricted private dumpster operating hours to 9:00 p.m.–6:00 a.m. did not advance past committee, suggesting the current council member reintroduce it. Representative Takenouchi shared that after contacting West Oʻahu Aggregate directly, the company made internal adjustments and the resident confirmed trucks are no longer arriving daily, with pickup returning to regular morning hours. The Board agreed to remove the item from the agenda unless further concerns arise, and Representative Takenouchi offered to serve as liaison to both Honolulu Disposal and West Oʻahu Aggregate for future noise complaints.

Member Larry Smith left at 8:06 p.m. There were six (6) members present.

OFFICIALS’ REPORTS – [1:18:52]
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [1:19:07]: Director Kim Hashiro reported the City is actively responding to Kona Low storms, directing residents to oneohau.org for damage and assistance information. Cleanup continues across Oʻahu, with debris accepted at city transfer stations and convenience centers daily 7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; mayor’s town hall meetings are postponed during storm response. Newsletter highlights include the Honolulu Zoo regaining AZA accreditation, the Mayor’s 2026 State of the City address, expanded Chinatown housing, the 2026 sustainability report, and Tricia Dang’s appointment as Deputy Director of the Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency. On carryover items: Alika Avenue grate remains pending with DFM; Nuʻuanu Valley Park lighting and monkey pod tree are resolved; hau tree trimming is in progress; Pacific Heights dumpster noise is resolved; and Pacific Heights Road drainage has been reported to DFM, awaiting response.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YCljG9kf322NKuxDtU1x_FtQHba-bK6w/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:23:38]
1. Signage Facing Wrong Direction – Puupaka Drive (Upper Nuʻuanu): Member Kurashige reported that a traffic sign at 3192 and 3186 Puupaka Drive has shifted to face the wrong direction for traffic due to soil softening from the Kona Low storms. Director Hashiro confirmed it will be reported to DFM.
2. Hawaiian Brown Ducks – City Jurisdiction and Response: Member Kurashige asked what the city is doing regarding ducks being killed in the area and whether action is being taken. Director Hashiro stated DFM is checking whether ducks fall under their jurisdiction. Member Kurashige noted community members have been posting duck crossing signs due to ongoing deaths from speeding vehicles, and asked for action.
3. Nuʻuanu Valley Park – Restroom Conditions: Resident Mike Ellis reported that the park restrooms are in very poor condition — dirty, stinking, tiles cracked, flooring damaged from an experimental treatment, and often without toilet tissue due to theft by unhoused individuals. A church group that regularly uses the park for Easter picnics was deterred by the condition of the men’s restroom. Ellis stated DPR is aware but there has been no response. Director Hashiro confirmed the issue will be reported again to DPR.
4. Feral Chickens at Booth Park – Possible Virus: Member Lee reported multiple feral chickens found dead near Booth Park, possibly linked to a norovirus similar to last year’s outbreak, and asked about city resources. Director Hashiro noted the city’s mitigation program remains active — the city contracts trapping on city property, while private property owners may access the city’s vendor with a small subsidy — and committed to following up. Member Kurashige suggested posting “No Feeding” signs, as park workers appear to be feeding the chickens, and cautioned that anyone handling dead birds use gloves and plastic bags due to potential avian flu risk.

Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam – [1:33:42]: Lisa Leonardo reported that budget amendments have been submitted to hire ten additional prosecutors to reduce case backlogs and restore $2 million for the Office of Economic Revitalization to support small businesses; a free Kūpuna Preparedness Fair is scheduled for May 27, 2026 at Halewaiʻolu Senior Residences on River Street in Chinatown for kūpuna, families, and caregivers; the Pacific Heights Road rockslide mitigation project (Site 070-B) has advanced to “pending award,” with the address to be reported when available; and graffiti may be reported via HPD’s hotline, monitored by the Community Affairs Division and disseminated to district commands.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UCS5oPTIMMWgFysYGod9GeIMjWlLkEf7/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:36:29]
1. Graffiti Awareness in the Area: Member Kurashige asked whether there is current graffiti in the neighborhood so the Neighborhood Security Watch/Community Policing team can prepare. Leonardo stated she would check while driving on Pali Highway and will share information. Kurashige noted that graffiti frequently appears on telephone poles along the Kailua side of Pali Highway and that swift cleanup is important to discourage repeat tagging.

Governor Josh Green’s Representative – [1:38:15]: Kayla Setzler reported that the Governor’s newsletter details state and Hawaii National Guard storm recovery efforts including rescues, evacuations, water distribution, debris removal, road repairs, and disaster assistance, with resources covering emergency tax relief, insurance claims, disaster case management, and health and infrastructure support, all linked in the digital newsletter. Additionally, the University of Hawaiʻi and Office of Wellness and Resilience launched the 2026 Hawaiʻi Quality of Life Survey to gather community input on health, cost of living, education, and well-being to inform future policy.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VMZLkORQw6f8vYKu8hwaOcqISYQ2HQxJ/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:40:12]
1. Hawaiian Brown Ducks – DLNR Update: Member Kurashige asked again about action on the Hawaiian brown ducks. Setzler stated she had reached out to DLNR previously and was informed that efforts were focused on Kauaʻi, where the last purebred Hawaiian brown duck population resides, with reintroduction to other islands still in a pilot phase. She offered to request an update from DLNR. Member Kurashige reported the current duck population along Wood Street stream, Pelekane Drive, Kaohinani Drive and the Dowsett area appears healthy, but a black cat recently dropped off near Pelekane is threatening the ducks. She asked DLNR to inspect the area.

District 13 Senator Karl Rhoads – [1:48:34]: No representative was present at tonight’s meeting.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ryn8Nsgc4gFQhoFzN3H0tIdEteu2IM-6/view?usp=drive_link

District 27 Representative Jenna Takenouchi – [1:48:55]: Representative Takenouchi reported a Community Resource Fair with Kuakini Medical Center drew ~45 cars for shredding and ~100 residents for health and tax assistance. She secured $175,000 for DLNR tree removals near residential areas following a Kona Low storm incident, and school funding including $1.1 million for Kawananakoa Middle School security fence, $1.1 million for Nuʻuanu Elementary air conditioning and re-roofing, and $605,000 for Pauoa Elementary ceiling fans and railing maintenance. She also secured $750,000 for Kula No Na Poʻe Hawaiʻi at Papakōlea following federal DEI-related funding cuts. The DOE’s USDA Seamless Summer Option Program offers free breakfast and lunch to students 18 and under at 74 schools statewide (June 9–July 17, 2026 no enrollment required); nearby participating schools include Lincoln, Stevenson, Roosevelt, and others.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:54:18]
1. Traffic Camera: Memmber Patrick Smith urged Representative Takenouchi to ensure any traffic camera implementation includes adequate data retention and privacy policies, and strongly cautioned against Flock cameras, citing negative experiences in Washington State and concerns about the company not honoring its commitments. Representative Takenouchi acknowledged the concern, noting that legislation making the program permanent requires DOT to adopt and publicly disclose official rules, with data retention being a key issue already on the community’s radar.
2. Foreign Drivers and Licensing Requirements: Member Kurashige asked Representative Takenouchi whether a bill could be introduced requiring people coming from other countries to take a driving test before receiving a Hawaii driver’s license. Representative Takenouchi stated she would look into the current requirements for people entering the state and see where changes to the rules might be appropriate.
3. Summer Meal Program Registration: Member Kurashige asked whether children need to pre-register. Representative Takenouchi stated that children can simply show up; schools anticipate the population and have flexibility to adjust.

Federal Elected Officers & Other Elected Officials – [1:55:55]: No representatives from the congressional delegation were present.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) – [1:56:07]: No OHA representative was present at tonight’s meeting.

MEETING MINUTES – [1:56:22]: Due to loss of quorum, approval of the February 17, 2026 and April 21, 2026 meeting minutes was deferred to the June 16, 2026 meeting.

PRESENTATIONS – [1:57:28]
TMK 2-2-013:054 – 322 ʻAuwaiolimu Street – Proposed Meeting Facility – [1:57:57]: Louisa Sinipata, Esq., General Counsel for the District of the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga in America, presented the church’s interest in purchasing 322 ʻAuwaiolimu Street, adjacent to the Chinese cemetery near Punchbowl. The church currently rents three separate Honolulu facilities and originally intended to use the R-5 zoned property as a community center, but after visiting the site determined it is more suitable as a parsonage at this time. Future community center use would require a use permit, parking studies, and agreements with the cemetery, which owns the access road; no such agreements have been secured. Sinipata noted the church expects to close escrow within one month and appeared before the board as a good-neighbor outreach first step, adding that neighboring residents have not yet been notified pending a smooth transition for current tenants.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:02:20]
1. Zoning Clarification: Member Hidano raised a question about whether R-5 zoning entitles the owner to five units, noting uncertainty about that interpretation. Sinipata acknowledged she was relying on the broker’s representation and would verify with the county.
2. Support: Member Smith expressed personal support for the proposed parsonage use.
3. Parking Limitations: Member Lee noted that the property appears to have limited parking with only a single driveway, which would make it impractical as a community center without securing additional parking — likely requiring an agreement with the cemetery. Sinipata agreed and confirmed that the lack of parking is why she advised the church that the property is better suited as a parsonage for now.
4. Access Road Ownership and Cemetery History: Resident Mike Ellis asked about the access road’s legal status and whether it is a private driveway or encroachment. Sinipata confirmed the road is owned by the cemetery, which has thus far only allowed informal verbal access. Ellis noted the Chinese cemetery has historical significance and encouraged careful engagement. Sinipata agreed and stated she has already been advising the church to look at alternative sites.

BOARD BUSINESS – [2:12:37]
Update on Pali Highway Transportation Projects – [2:12:41]: DOT representative Ryan Nakata did not respond to the invitation and was not present. No updates were available. Item deferred to the June 16, 2026 meeting.

Wood Street Crosswalk Noise Issue, 4-Inch Curb Trip Hazard, Pedestrian Beacon, DOT Traffic Delineators, 2024 Pali Highway Resurfacing, Pali Highway Rockfall Safety: No updates available; all items remain on the agenda pending DOT response.

Punchbowl Cesspools Projects Update – [2:13:28]: Vice Chair Lum was not present. No update at this time.

ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:13:49]
Next Regular Board Meeting: The Nuʻuanu-Punchbowl Neighborhood Board No. 12 will hold its next meeting on June 16, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

ʻAuwai Committee Meeting – Queen Emma Summer Palace: Member Kurashige announced that the ʻAuwai committee (Hawaiʻi Stream Committee) will meet on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. at Queen Emma Summer Palace. The event is free and includes a tour of the palace. Parking is free. The committee focuses on the health and preservation of Nuʻuanu streams. Member Kurashige noted she helped found the committee 37 years ago. All community members are welcome.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 9:13 p.m.

Submitted by: Zhoydell Magaoay, Neighborhood Assistant
Reviewed by: Dylan Whitsell, Deputy
Finalized by: Jill Easley Allen, Secretary & Rae Gee, Chair

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.