PEARL CITY NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 21

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2025 at 7:00 P.M.
MOMILANI COMMUNITY CENTER,
715 HOʻOMOANA ST, PEARL CITY, HI 96782
AND VIA WEBEX

This meeting location is open to public participation.
Other available options including WebEx and phone-in instructions are as follows:

WEBEX Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=mbdb01f17b499a89cdb59bf83086d38ec
Meeting Number/Access Code: 2498 533 4017
Password: NB21 (6221 from phones and video systems)
Join By Phone: 1-408-418-9388
PCNB Documents posted on Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1V5AlaHjrMVo42KclDDH1qS-pc2oJVF9l

MEETING POLICY – Adopted July 22, 2025
Rules of Speaking:
Virtual: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to open the list of participants and click the “raise hand” icon by their name. When recognized by the Chair, address comments to the Chair. Remarks should not exceed 3 minutes. (Please cancel the “raise hand” icon after speaking. Presentations must be kept under 5 minutes. Please silence your cell phones. The “chat” box can also be used to ask simple questions. Board Members are required to keep their video active during the board meeting.

Recordings of Board Meetings can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice

Note: The Board may take action on any agenda item. As required by the State Sunshine Law (HRS 92), specific issues not noted on this agenda cannot be voted on, unless added to the agenda. Board actions such as draft resolutions and outgoing letters will be posted for the public on Google Drive.

Board Agenda Items: The Board is requesting that all written reports presented at the board meeting be soft copy emailed to the Board Chair and Website Manager: lveray@hawaii.rr.com and info@pearlcitynb.com. All written testimony must be received in the Neighborhood Commission Office 48 hours prior to the meeting. If within 48 hours, written and/or oral testimony may be submitted directly to the board at the meeting. If submitting written testimony, please note the board and agenda item(s) your testimony concerns. Send to: Neighborhood Commission Office, 925 Dillingham Blvd, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817. Fax: (808) 768-3711. Email: nbtestimony@honolulu.gov

I. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Larry Veray
A. Pledge of Allegiance – Cub Scout Pack 75 – Cubmaster Scott Ogasawara
B. Time Limit Policy and Procedures from previous board term
C. All participants are to sign in for in-person and virtual identify yourself to NCO Assistant on WEBEX
D. Introduction of the Neighborhood Board Team (All board members must have their video turned on)

II. CERTIFICATES OF RECOGNITION: Police Officer Tiare Perry, Vice Chair Charmaine Doran, Board Member Guy Inouye, and Pearl City Little League

III. PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS
A. Honolulu Fire Department
B. Honolulu Police Department

IV. PUBLIC TESTIMONY – Limited to 3 minutes each (Resident/Community Concerns) to include confidential and public safety concerns from residents who wanted to remain anonymous requesting board member to present their issue at the board

V. PRESENTATIONS – Limited to 5 minutes each
A. Pesticide Use in Hawaii and Concerns on the Environment and our Food – Ella Alexander
B. Pearl City – Waipahu Trunk Sewer System Update – Patrick Watson Honua Consulting
C. Walk Bike Drive Presentation – Paula Bender

VI. BOARD BUSINESS
A. Approval of Committee Members
B. Resolution – Legislative Priorities for 2025-2026 that details our requirements for Pearl City and residents
C. PCNB Letter – Request the U.S. National Park Service Recognize our Local Shipyard Workers by Adding a Special Exhibit for their Heroic Actions Coming to the Rescue of Hundreds of Burning and Trapped Sailors and Marines on Sunken Navy Warships During the Attack on Pearl Harbor on Sunday, December 7, 1941
D. Resolution – Establishing a Permitted Interaction Group to Consider Matters Related to Emergency Preparedness
E. Committee Report – Pearl City High School Architecture Class Update on Planned Dog Park at Neil S. Blaisdell Park

VII. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU
1. Office of the Mayor – Director & Chief Engineer Gene Albano, Director Facility Maintenance
2. Councilmember Val Okimoto

VIII. GOVERNOR’S OFFICE
1. Governor Josh Green’s Office – Mr. Jeff Hickman, Public Affairs
2. Hawaii Department of Transportation – Mr. Casey Abe, HDOT State Highways Division

A. STATE LEGISLATURE
1. Senator Glenn Wakai (D15)
2. Senator Brandon Elefante (D16)
3. Senator Henry Aquino (D19)
4. Representative Gregg Takayama (D34)
5. Representative Cory Chun (D35)
6. Representative Trish La Chica (D37)

B. CONGRESSIONAL OFFICIALS
1. Congressman Ed Case – Mr. Nestor Garcia, Director of Communications

C. OTHER AGENCIES
1. Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam – Ms. Kris Tanahara
2. Leeward Community College – Chancellor Carlos Penaloza
3. Pearl City Library – Ms. Vicky Bowie, Branch Manager
4. Board of Water Supply – Mr. Arlen Ledward, Civil Engineer

D. ASSOCIATIONS
1. Pearl City Community Events – Mr. Tony Velasco

IX. BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS
1. Regular Board Meeting Minutes Approval – Tuesday, August 26, 2025 minutes

X. CHAIR & BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 next board meeting will be both Hybrid Virtual and In-Person facilitated on WEBEX virtually and facilitated at Momilani Community Center 715 Hoʻomoana St, Pearl City. The next board meeting will be on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. The Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 meetings are broadcasted on Focus Channel 49 and air 2nd Saturday at 6:00 PM and 1st and 3rd Friday at 1:00 PM.

XI. 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, Suite 160, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi 96817; Telephone (808) 768-3710 Fax (808) 768-3711. Agendas and minutes are also available on the internet at www.honolulu.gov/nco.

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 at least three (3) business days before the scheduled meeting. It may not be possible to fulfill requests received after this date.

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2025 at 7:00 P.M.
Momilani Community Center, 715 Hoʻomoana St, Pearl City, HI 96782
ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Video Recording of Meeting Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMRXy23PuXI

Google Drive Link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1V5AlaHjrMVo42KclDDH1qS-pc2oJVF9l

I. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:02]: Chair Larry Veray called the Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 meeting to order at 7:04 p.m.

Pledge of Allegiance – [0:01:25]: The Cub Scout Pack 75 administered the Pledge of Allegiance. Cubmaster Scott Ogasawara announced that their Cub Scout season 2025-2026 has just started. Interested families can reach out to cubpack75@outlook.com or visit bsascout.org. In September 2025, they will be doing citizenship month with service projects, including painting over graffiti at Pacheco Park.

Quorum was established with eleven (11) members present. Note: This eleven-member Board requires six (6) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.

Members Present: Michael C. Taylor, Rodney Awong, Charmaine Doran, Guy Inouye, Gaius Dupio, Heide Weber, Ryan Yamato, Daniel Smith, Nathan Takeuchi, Tony Velasco, and Larry Veray.

Members Absent: None.

Guests: Firefighter Thomas Hong (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant K. Hong (Honolulu Police Department); Scott Ogasawara (Cub Scout Pack 75); Director & Chief Engineer Gene Albano (Mayor Blangiardi); Aaron Wilson (Councilmember Val Okimoto); Jeff Hickman (Governor Josh Green’s Office); Casey Abe (Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation); Senator Brandon Elefante and Janice Salcedo; Nathaniel Ise (Senator Henry Aquino); Representative Gregg Takayama; Representative Cory Chun; Tosa Lobendahn (Representative Trish La Chica’s Office); Nestor Garcia (Congressman Ed Case); Kris Tanahara (Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam); Lieutenant JoAnna Delfin (Navy Closure Task Force Red Hill); Chancellor Carlos Peñaloza (Leeward Community College); Vicky Bowie (Pearl City Library); Arlen Ledward (Board of Water Supply); Steve Russo (Sandwich Isle Pest Solutions); Greg Cerino (Pearl City Storage Project); Tara Sutton (Red Hill Registry); Fred Brummer; Collette Chang Hasegawa, Judy Hearty, Jim Yim, Karen Yim, Jonathan Toma, Kikuko Rees, Brittany Rosario, Nicole Toma, Alyce Hong, Colin Kanemoto, Michelle Kim, Audry Uto, Kelvin Uto, Nyles Toguchi, Sierra Martin, Amy Billiamosa, Steve Russo, Donald Sakamoto, Johnnie-Mae L. Perry, Britt, Sato, and Dyne Peich (residents); and Anson Wu (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name not included if not legible or stated for the record. There were approximately 39 total participants.

II. PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS – [0:03:57]

Honolulu Fire Department – [0:04:11]: Firefighter Thomas Hong provided a response to a question asked in the previous meeting, the incident statistics for July 2025, and safety tips for August 2025.
• Information on Invasive Grass: There are no alternate crops that can displace current invasive fast-burning and growing grasses. The best defense is to ensure proper fuel breaks and establish well-maintained agricultural crops. Native Hawaiian drought-tolerant plants that are less fire-prone can be planted. A list of these plants is available in the Hawaiian Action Guide on fire.honolulu.gov.
• July 2025 Statistics: There were zero (0) structure fire, zero (0) brush fire, zero (0) cooking fires, two (2) nuisance fires, seven (7) activated alarms, 120 medical emergencies, two (2) motor vehicle collisions with pedestrians, nine (9) motor vehicle crash/collisions, one (1) mountain rescue, zero (0) ocean rescues, and one (1) hazardous material incident.
• Safety Tip: Emergency Notifications and Resources – Understanding how you’ll be alerted during emergencies and knowing where to find accurate official information is key to being prepared. Alert methods include opt-in alerts (HNL Alert) and public alert and warning systems (Emergency Alert System, Wireless Emergency Alert, and outdoor warning sirens).

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:06:40]

1. New Town Gulch Fires: Chair Veray expressed concern about multiple fires in the New Town Gulch area near the driving range, which threatened the Hillside Terrace apartments. Aaron Wilson responded that he had already submitted a request to address the homeless issue before the fire occurred, noting that HPD was seeking permission to clear the area within the next month since it’s on private golf course property.

Honolulu Police Department – [0:09:19]: Lieutenant K. Hong provided the crime statistics for July 2025 and shared safety tips.
• July 2025 Statistics: There were four (4) motor vehicle thefts, 15 burglaries, 31 thefts, seven (7) unauthorized entries into motor vehicles, 1,520 calls, and 61 total citations were issued in various requested areas.
• Safety Campaign: Lieutenant Hong announced the “Safer Roads Together” campaign that started the previous day, emphasizing that safety is everyone’s responsibility. The campaign will include sign-waving and weekly video messages rather than focusing solely on enforcement.
• Safety Tips: For drivers – buckle up, put phones down, slow down in neighborhoods and near schools, drive sober, and look out for others. For pedestrians – use crosswalks, wait for walk signals, make eye contact with drivers, avoid distractions, and wear bright clothing at night. For motorcyclists – wear helmets and protective gear, stay visible, ride defensively, and obey speed limits.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:11:55]
1. School Area Traffic Safety: Member Weber raised concerns of drivers doing donuts at intersections at Waimano Home Road, and speeding on Kamehameha and Farrington intersection. Lieutenant Hong responded that he would pass on the message.
2. Palisades Enforcement: Vice Chair Doran thanked HPD for enforcement in Palisades.
3. Call Service Breakdown: Member Smith requested a breakdown of the 1,500 calls for service. Lieutenant Hong provided categories: miscellaneous calls (188), parking violations (86), alarm calls (51), motor vehicle collisions (62), and nuisance complaints (40).
4. Manana Break-ins: Resident Peich reported a rash of break-ins east of Kuahaka in the Manana area, with similar methods of entry through jalousies. Lieutenant Hong confirmed they’re investigating and encouraged neighborhood watch efforts.
5. Noelani/Hoʻolauleʻa Intersection: Resident Colette described dangerous traffic situations at the Noelani and Hoʻolauleʻa intersection where she nearly had collisions. Lieutenant Hong explained that passing on the right is illegal and promised to address these areas.
6. Komo Mai/Hoʻolauleʻa Intersection: Resident Colette reported dangerous conditions at Komo Mai and Hoʻolauleʻa intersection. Lieutenant Hong noted the issue and reminded residents to be careful on the road.
7. Red Light Running: Resident Judy reported ongoing issues with red light running at the Moanalua and Hoʻomalu intersection. Lieutenant Hong acknowledged the concern.
8. Puuponi Street Speeding: Resident Judy requested speed humps on Puu Poni Street to address speeding, including commercial vehicles and city buses. Lieutenant Hong noted the request.
9. Pedestrian Safety: Resident Rosario reported witnessing blind residents attempting to cross at Moanalua and Hoʻomalu without audible signals.
10. Commercial Vehicles: Resident Rosario mentioned issues with commercial vehicles using their residential street especially Puu Poni Street. Member Awong suggested installing speed signs.
11. Motorcycle Speeding: Resident Sakamoto reported ongoing issues with high-speed motorcycles traveling between Hālawa/Pearl City and the Windward side late at night. Lieutenant Hong said he would look into the issue.
12. Hit-and-Run Incidents: Resident Jim reported his house on Puu Poni Street being hit twice by vehicles at the corner, with hit-and-run drivers. Chair Veray took note of the concern and plans to take action.

III. PUBLIC TESTIMONY – [0:37:48]
Red Hill Registry – [0:37:53]: Tara Sutton, Director of Community Engagement for the Red Hill Registry, announced that the registry is open and fully launched for enrollment at redhillregistry.org for anyone who experienced water contamination and health impacts from the 2021 water crisis.

IV. PRESENTATION – [0:39:01]

Pearl City Storage Project Update – [0:39:08]: Greg Cerino provided an update on the 1080 Kuala Street project and highlighted the following:
• The project received special district major approval from the TOD district in January 2025.
• Community benefits include a dog park, community garden, walking path connecting Kuala to Acacia, public plaza with over 50 bicycle parking stalls, and commercial ground floor retail.
• The facility will have 18 car parking.
• Security will include 24/7 camera monitoring and staff on-site seven days a week from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Construction is expected to begin with site grading in November 2025, with foundations starting in January 2026.
• The project team had to revise connectivity plans due to restrictions on building stairwells in the right-of-way.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:52:17]
1. Community Benefits: Vice Chair Doran asked for clarification on community benefits and suggested aesthetic improvements to fencing. Cerino responded with details about the community dog park, community garden, walking path, public plaza, bicycle parking, and commercial space.
2. Public Parking: Member Dupio asked about public parking availability. Cerino clarified that there would be public bicycle parking but limited car parking (18 spaces including two rentable zip cars).
3. Security Measures: Member Awong asked about security for the property. Cerino explained they would have 24/7 camera monitoring throughout the facility and staff on-site seven days a week from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
4. Garden Access and Traffic Management: A resident expressed concerns about accessing the community garden without adequate parking. The same resident asked about traffic management during construction. Cerino explained that storage units would be available for garden supplies and there would be water access on site. Cerino noted they would work with traffic authorities to minimize disruption.
5. Various Concerns: Member Weber questioned regarding the right-turn-only exit and what types of commercial space they plan. Cerino explained that traffic studies determined this was the safest option due to the busy intersection. Cerino explained that sidewalks weren’t possible due to grade changes and right-of-way limitations. Cerino indicated the commercial space would likely be a bicycle repair shop or shipping service however it has not yet been decided.

V. BOARD BUSINESS – [1:06:39]

[1:07:09] – Doran MOVED and Weber SECONDED to postponed the recognition of Board Member, the approval of Committee Members, and resolution revitalizing Manana Kai Park to the next agenda. Hearing no objections, the motion was adopted; 11-0-0 (AYE: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Weber, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; NAY: None; Abstain: None) – [1:07:30]

Recognition of Board Members – [1:07:30]: Postponed to the next agenda.

Approval of Committee Members – [1:07:30]: Postponed to the next agenda.

Resolution Requesting the City Explore Revitalizing Manana Kai Park as an Urban Open Space Park – [1:07:30]: Postponed to the next agenda.

[1:07:53] – Hearing no objections Chair Veray added a presentation regarding Feral Chickens to the agenda.

Feral Chickens Control Program – [1:08:06]: Steve Russo from the Sandwich Isle Pest Solutions provided a brief explanation of what their program offers. The program offers three options: free removal from public property, full-service private property trapping for $375/week, or a DIY option with trap rentals at $50/week plus $25 per chicken for euthanasia.

Resolution Requesting the State and City Initiate Collaborative Transportation Planning for all Pearl City Schools – [1:13:07]: Vice Chair Doran presented a resolution noting that Pearl City continues to face challenges with congestion, speeding, and public safety risks surrounding schools. Since 2019, the Board has adopted seven resolutions, identified 25 priority projects, and extensively discussed student safety in 20 monthly meetings. The resolution requests city and state collaboration on finding solutions for Pearl City hot zones for each school.

[1:13:59] – Doran MOVED and Awong SECONDED to approve the Resolution Requesting the State and City Initiate Collaborative Transportation Planning for all Pearl City Schools as written. Hearing no discussion, the board conducted a roll call vote. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 11-0-0 (AYE: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Weber, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [1:14:14]

[1:16:04] – Doran MOVED and Dupio SECONDED to postpone the Review of 2025-2026 Legislative Priorities to the next agenda. Hearing no discussion and objections. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 11-0-0 (AYE: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Weber, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [1:16:20]

PCNB Letter to City Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) and the Department of Health (DOH) – [1:16:27]: [1:16:49] – Doran MOVED and Yamato SECONDED to send a letter to DPP and DOH expressing concerns about an illegal care home, noting this is part of a larger pattern of behavior dating back to 2019. Hearing no discussion and objections. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 11-0-0 (AYE: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Weber, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [1:17:43]

Update on Resident Request to Eliminate Parking on Mauka Side of Kumano Street – [1:18:13]: Resident Fred Brummer presented his request to designate one side of Kumano Street as no parking to ensure emergency vehicle access. He cited examples of water main breaks requiring bus rerouting and potential difficulties for emergency vehicles during incidents. He also mentioned issues with abandoned vehicles, litter, and the need for clear access as he is disabled.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:22:27]
1. Director Albano Provided DTS’s response: Kumano Street is a typical 28-foot wide residential roadway that allows vehicles to park on both sides while still providing a 10-foot through lane sufficient for emergency vehicles and handy vans. DTS’s three-year review found no traffic collisions in the area and does not recommend establishing parking restrictions.
2. Alternative Solutions: Vice Chair Doran advised to meet with resident Brummer to look into different ways to resolve the situation.
3. No Parking Signage: Chair Veray asked Director Albano if a sign can be added to remind residents not park within 30 feet of the stop sign. Director Albano suggested to have a discussion with DTS.
4. Letter to DTS: Chair Veray committed to drafting a letter to DTS on behalf of the chair.

Approving a Letter of Support for the Renaming of the Pearl City District Park Pool to Honor Ken Suenaga – [1:30:50]:
[1:31:19] – Doran MOVED and Dupio SECONDED to approve sending a letter supporting the council resolution to rename the pool. Discussion followed.

Several community members provided testimony in support – [1:31:51]:
• Resident Kaneoto read testimony from a former swimmer who described Coach Ken as making the team into a family and touching many lives over many years.
• Resident Otaka, a former assistant coach, described Ken’s dedication over half a century and his status as an icon in youth sports.
• Ken’s daughter expressed appreciation for the recognition of her father’s 50+ years of service, noting that Ken recently celebrated his 94th birthday.
• Resident Peich, a longtime resident who started swimming with Coach Ken at age 9, described how he made her not just a better swimmer but a better person and inspired generations of swimmers.
• Resident Nicole Toma, who initiated the renaming request, called the recognition long overdue for a man who shared his passion with generations of swimmers.

[1:38:13] – Hearing no objections. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 11-0-0 (AYE: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Weber, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [1:38:13]

Working with the Makakilo-Kapolei-Honokai Hale Neighborhood Board – [1:38:26]: Chair Veray announced he was invited to a hurricane preparedness meeting hosted by the Makakilo Neighborhood Board, bringing together seven neighborhood board chairs from West and Central Oʻahu. After this initial meeting, he plans to recommend establishing a Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) to document recommendations for public review.

VI. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU – [1:39:00]

Office of the Mayor – [1:39:12]: Director Gene Albano provided updates from the mayor’s newsletter and addressed questions from previous meetings.
• Mayor’s Newsletter Highlights: The City acquired land on South Beretania for future HPD operations; Mayor Blangiardi announced additions to the City leadership team; demolition began at 1615 Ala Wai Boulevard for a new affordable housing complex; a new solar canopy is coming to the Ala Wai Golf Course parking lot; and Members of the Honolulu Youth Commission discussing wide range of topics with the Mayor.
• Responses to Previous Questions:
o Signage for Waimano Home Road near Our Lady of Good Counsel: DTS completed their study and will issue a work order to DFM.
o Crosswalk Removal at Waimano Home Road/Nānākai Street: DTS is designing a new crosswalk at Moanalua Road/Kuala Street/Waimano Home Road. When completed, the Nānākai Street crosswalk will be removed.
o Traffic Lights Monitored by Joint Traffic Management Center (JTMC): Approximately 40% of traffic signals on Oʻahu have cameras, with more intersections viewable due to pan and zoom capabilities.
o Recouping Costs for Guardrail/fence Damage in Palisades: BFS has a contractor reviewing HPD collision reports, but DFM prioritizes public safety over cost recovery and would not take an aggressive approach to recoup the cost.
o Invasive Grass Collection at Palisades Community Park: DPR’s maintenance section collected and removed the bags and plants on Thursday, July 31, 2025.
o Speed Management on Maiha Circle: DTS found most motorists traveling near the 20 mph speed limit and does not recommend traffic calming measures.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:46:01]
1. Hoʻokiʻekiʻe Street Cleanup: Member Weber asked about cleaning up illegal dumping on Hoʻokiʻekiʻe Street. Director Albano noted this was being addressed.
2. Palisades Debris: Member Dupio requested attention to debris coming down from the mountain into Palisades after the traffic light. Director Albano said they would work on clearing the debris.
3. Dead Trees: Member Dupio mentioned dead trees above power lines near where vehicles crashed into the fence. Director Albano explained that trees fall under the Department of Parks and Recreation’s Division of Urban Forestry. To send concerns regarding roads contact DFM: DFMroads@honolulu.gov
4. Traffic Light Improvements: Member Smith expressed disappointment that the city hasn’t fixed the traffic lights at Waimano Home Road and Komo Mai Drive. Director Albano suggested having DTS attend a future meeting to discuss the issue directly.
5. DTS Attendance: Vice Chair Doran requested DTS attend a future meeting to discuss ongoing traffic issues.

Councilmember Val Okimoto – [1:51:49]: Aaron Wilson provided updates on behalf of Councilmember Val Okimoto.
• Bills 49 and 50 were introduced by the Council Chair and councilmember Okimoto to raise homeowner exemptions for property taxes by $20,000 (from $160,000 to $180,000 for those 65 and over, and from $120,000 to $140,000 for those under 65).
• The pool renaming resolution and the Housing, Homeless, and Parks Committee and will go to full Council for a vote.
• An officer investigated a complaint about multiple dogs and ongoing barking on Lumikula Street, generating a cruelty to animal’s case and notifying the Humane Society.
• Parks will be making improvements at Blaisdell Park and Palisades Community Park, including re-roofing buildings and repaving lots.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:54:42]
1. Palisades: Member Weber asked when the repairs will be taking place. Aaron W. will get back to her.
2. Various Concerns: Member Smith asked if Councilmember Okimoto can support the traffic light change and if the Bus 54 can be rerouted to stop at the Nakason Performing Arts Center. Aaron will take his request to Councilmember Okimoto and DTS Director Roger Morton.
3. Legislative Priorities: Vice Chair Doran noted that many issues discussed repeatedly have been on the Board’s legislative priorities for years.
4. Pool Renaming: Vice Chair Doran thanked Aaron for his help with the pool renaming resolution and asked for the date of the council meeting. Aaron W. said the next council meeting will be on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.
5. Rail Transit Area Homelessness: Member Awong reported a growing homeless problem in the Pearl Highlands rail transit area, including a residential blue bus parked there for weeks. Aaron W. responded that he would request DTS address the issue.

VII. GOVERNOR’S OFFICE – [2:00:35]

A. GOVERNOR’S OFFICE – [2:00:38]
Governor Josh Green’s Office – [2:00:46]: Jeff Hickman addressed questions from the previous meeting and provided updates.
• Fixed-wing support for fire suppression: Currently no state plans exist.
• Wildfire fighting team: The new Fire Marshal is still setting up her staff, with priorities based on Maui wildfire findings.
• The Governor signed an executive order to keep one Hawaiʻi Army National Guard helicopter crew activated during wildfire season, reducing response time from 2-3 hours to 45 minutes.
• Hickman reminded everyone that tsunamis can happen any day and recommended reading a recent Advertiser article about tsunami preparedness.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:03:36]
1. C-130 Aircraft for Firefighting: Member Inouye emphasized that C-130 aircraft would be more effective for fighting large wildfires than helicopters, noting that the recent fire and helicopter water drops are inadequate. Jeff Hickman acknowledged the concern and said he would pass it along.
2. Wilfe Fire Prevention: Member Taylor commented on the Governor’s wilfire prevention measures.
3. Rail Noise: Resident Yam reported that rail noise has increased noticeably since it began operating. Chair Veray noted this is a City issue and that early concerns about steel-on-steel technology were raised before construction.

Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) – [2:08:55]: Casey Abe provided updates on various transportation projects.
• HDOT proposes installing two additional merge signs on the H2 Freeway northbound merging from Kamehameha Highway.
• Pothole Patching on the Moanalua Freeway eastbound going Red Hill.
• HDOT proposes installing four pavement right lane drop arrows rather than merge signs to avoid confusing motorists using the shoulder lane during rush hour.
• After DAGS and DOE denied ownership of the street, HDOT’s homeless coordinator had contractors clean up the Illegal dumping on Hoʻokiʻekiʻe Street.
• Abe informs residents Kuleana Road and Kaʻahumanu Street belongs to the City and will defer residents Goose concerns regarding the diffculties of making a left turn into Kaʻahumanu Street to the City.
• HDOT is investigating the concern regarding the left turn onto Kuleana Street from Kamehameha Highway traveling eastward and will report back at a later meeting.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:11:36]
1. Post Office Turn Lane: Member Awong asked HDOT to reconsider the turn lane configuration by the post office, suggesting that using the third lane for turning would provide a wider radius. Casey Abe agreed to take another look at it.
2. U-turn Request Status: Vice Chair Doran asked about the status of the U-turn request on Kamehameha Avenue. Casey Abe confirmed that Hawaiian Electric has been installed, so U-turns can be made.
3. Hoʻokiʻekiʻe Street Ownership: Vice Chair Doran asked for clarification on Hoʻokiʻekiʻe Street ownership. Casey Abe confirmed that the street is owned by the state.

B. STATE LEGISLATURE – [2:17:44]
Senator Glenn Wakai (D15) – [2:17:44]: No representative present.

Senator Brandon Elefante (D16) – [2:17:50]: Senator Brandon Elefante provided updates and presented certificates to new board members.
• Senator Elefante had mailed out their end of session newsletter to 23,000 households, but only received 24 survey responses. The top district concerns from his end-of-session survey were: 1) homelessness, 2) public safety and law enforcement, and 3) transportation/speeding issues and insurance costs.
• The Senator presented certificates to Board Members Dupio, Yamato, and Taylor.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:22:11]
1. Meetings: Member Smith asked Senator Elefante to start moving in the direction of meeting thought the year. Senator Elefante will see what happens.

Senator Henry Aquino (D19) – [2:22:45]: Nathaniel Ise provided a brief report on behalf of Senator Aquino and stood by his written report.

Representative Gregg Takayama (D34) – [2:23:07]: Representative Gregg Takayama reported that Hawaiʻi Emergency Management (HIEMA) has installed a new siren near Palisades Elementary School that will supposed to be online for next week’s siren testing.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:23:44]
1. Sirens: Member Dupio asked if it’s a new siren or an old siren. Representative Takayama said that nothing was done to the old siren and the new siren is located on the same street but closer to the school’s tennis court. Member Awong asked if the siren is tall enough for a camera to be mounted. Representative Takayama stated the siren is not located in a wooded area like the old siren. Member Guy confirmed Representative Takayama on the location of the new siren.

Representative Cory Chun (D35) – [2:25:30]: Representative Cory Chun announced that Jodi Katayama from Manana Elementary is the 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year for the Pearl City-Waipahu Complex.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:26:13]
1. Silver Alert: Chair Veray commented on silver alert not being implemented. Representative Chun noted that due to multiple factors and uncertainties it has delayed the implementation.
2. School Meal Program: Member Awong asked about the DOE’s initiative to establish centralized cooking kitchens for farm-to-table school meals. Representative Chun confirmed this is happening, with Pearl City High School already providing meals for many area schools.
3. Agricultural Self-Sustainability: Member Awong suggested more incentives for local farmers to improve Hawaii’s self-sustainability.

Representative Trish La Chica (D37) – [2:29:59]: Tosa Lobendahn provided updates on behalf of Representative Trish La Chica.
• District 37 survey will help guide work for the 2026 legislative session. Residents can complete it online or through the paper version arriving in mailboxes.
• A tour of the Hawaiʻi Agrivoltaic Research Site at Clearway’s Mililani solar farm is scheduled for Wednesday, October 1, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Space is limited to 20 participants; call 808-586-6150 to reserve a spot.

C. CONGRESSIONAL OFFICIALS – [2:32:08]
Congressman Ed Case – [2:32:08]: Nestor Garcia provided updates on behalf of Congressman Ed Case.
• Applications for the congressional nominations to service academies (West Point, Annapolis, Air Force Academy, and Merchant Marine Academy) are due by October 10, 2025. For information, call 808-650-6688 or visit case.house.gov.
• Tele-Town Hall is rescheduled for October 2, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. Hawaiʻi Standard time after being canceled due to the tsunami warning.
• Garcia acknowledged Member Inouye’s concerns about fixed-wing aircraft for firefighting and will keep this issue in mind.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:35:39]
1. Federal-State Partnership: Chair Veray suggested a federal-state partnership for C-130 firefighting aircraft, noting that maintenance costs could be minimized by using existing facilities at Barbers Point. Nestor Garcia suggested that the upcoming hurricane preparedness meeting with neighborhood boards could also address wildfire response.
2. C-130 Firefighting Aircraft: Member Inouye reiterated concerns about the inadequacy of helicopter water drops for large wildfires. Nestor Garcia acknowledged the concern and promised to keep it in mind.

D. OTHER AGENCIES – [2:40:10]
Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam – [2:40:18]: Kris Tanahara provided updates on Navy Region Hawaiʻi activities.
• Events will be held over the weekend at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum and Battleship Missouri Memorial to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. All events are free but require pre-registration
• Admiral Brad Collins is the new commander of Navy Region Hawaiʻi, replacing Rear Admiral Stephen Barnett.
• Monthly Saturday ship tours will resume in September 2025 at 9:00 a.m.
• The next community white boat tour is scheduled for Friday, October 3, 2025 focusing on stewardship and heritage.
• Oyster Project: In response to Member Inouye’s question from last month, a 2019 pilot study found a 71% survival rate for oysters living in Pearl Harbor with active maintenance. The team is looking at future projects for the oysters.

Lieutenant JoAnna Delfin provided the Navy Closure Task Force Red Hill update:
• Teams are working to clean pipes to prepare them for cutting and removal later this year.
• An informational webinar is planned for September 2025.

Leeward Community College (LCC) – [2:44:50]: Chancellor Carlos Peñaloza provided updates on college activities.
• The semester started with nearly 6,400 students.
• The finalization of the Fascia Replacement Project.
• LCC had 15 entrepreneurs at the Made in Hawaii festival, plus another 12.
• “My Monumental Summer” exhibition opening at the Hō‘ikeākea art gallery on Saturday, August 30, 2025 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. with refreshments and entertainment.
• LCC will be hosting the Megabon event on Saturday, September 13, 2025.
LCC will be hosting the Accreditation Commission for Junior and Community Colleges on Monday, September 22, 2025.
• The Pearl restaurant reopened on Friday, September 5, 2025.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:47:25]
1. Value Added Product Development: Member Taylor commented on LCC’s work with the Wahiawā Value Added Product Development Center, supporting local entrepreneurs, farmers, and community.

Pearl City Library – [2:48:14]: Vicky Bowie provided updates on library activities.
• Closures: The library will be closed on Sunday and Monday in observance of Labor Day.
• For renovation updates they are still waiting on permit approval and are scouting for a pop-up location.
• September 2025 is Library Card Sign-up Month. New cardholders will receive a free tote bag or drawstring bag.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:49:16]
1. 3D Printing Class: Member Smith thanked the library for the 3D printing class and the ability to do 3D printing at the library. Vicky Bowie acknowledged the thanks.

Board of Water Supply – [2:49:38]: Arlen Ledward provided updates on water main breaks and upcoming events.
• Six 8-inch water main breaks that occurred in Pearl City last month, with three on Kawelōka Street.
• Imagine a Day without Water event. This free family-friendly event will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Windward Mall’s Center Court, featuring interactive displays, hands on activities, and giveaways including a 45-gallon rain barrel.

E. ASSOCIATIONS – [2:50:53]
Pearl City Community Events – [2:50:55]: Member Velasco announced the Mark Takai Family Fun Day on Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Momilani Recreation Center.

VIII. BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS – [2:51:10]

Regular Board Meeting Minutes Approval – Tuesday, July 22, 2025 minutes – [2:51:10]: Chair Veray received corrections to the minutes from Senator Elefante regarding his intern being present at the meeting and Member Smith’s comment regarding the traffic signal lights on Waimano Home Road and Komo Mai Drive.

[2:51:39] – Smith MOVED and Guy SECONDED to approve the July 22, 2025 minutes with amendments. Hearing no objections, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 11-0-0 (AYE: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Weber, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [2:51:47]

IX. CHAIR & BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:51:52]

Meeting Date and Time [2:51:52]: The next Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 meeting will be on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at Momilani Community Center and via WebEx. Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 meetings are broadcast on Focus Channel 49 on the second Saturday at 6:00 p.m. and the first and third Fridays at 1:00 p.m.

X. ADJOURNMENT – [2:52:35]: The meeting was adjourned at 9:57 p.m.

Submitted by: Anson Wu, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Lindon Valenciano, Public Relations Assistant, NCO
Finalized by: Tony Velasco, Secretary

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.