PEARL CITY NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 21

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2026 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=m9548a7ebd3743fc3f1febe04ca334e38
Meeting Number/Access Code: 2488 368 8061
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. PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS
A. Honolulu Fire Department
B. Honolulu Police Department

III. PRESENTATIONS – Limited to 5 minutes each
A. Pearl City High School Coach and Girls Basketball Team Recognition – Mr. Tony Velasco
B. City & County Honolulu Employment of the new revised 311 App – Department of Information Technology Rep.

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. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU
A. Office of the Mayor – Mr. Gene Albano, Director Facility Maintenance
B. Councilmember Val Okimoto
VI. 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 Rachele Lamosao (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

VII. BOARD BUSINESS
A. Resolution in Response to Federal Aviation Administration Airspace Modernization Project Survey with the Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 Requesting Focus on Improving Public Safety and Health for our Residents from Aircraft Overflights of Residential, Commercial, Schools, Churches and Business Areas to Mitigate Public Safety and Noise Abatement
B. Reports from Board members on testimony provided to legislative bills
C. Committee Reports

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

IX. ASSOCIATIONS
A. Pearl City Community Events – Mr. Tony Velasco

X. BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS
A. Regular Board Meeting Minutes Approval – January 27, 2026 minutes

XI. 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 Hoomoana St, Pearl City. The next board meeting will be on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. 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.

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 email nbtestimony@honolulu.gov, 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.

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2026 at 7:00 P.M.
MOMILANI COMMUNITY CENTER, 715 HOOMOANA ST. PEARL CITY, HI 96782
ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Video Recording of Meeting Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QpfE69a0D98

Google Drive Link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1DgbY8in-eOFiMYn8SbQ4EuZSt1xRaI2A

CALL TO ORDER — [0:00:06]: Chair Veray called the Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 meeting to order at approximately 7:00 p.m. and announced meeting policy.

A. Introduction of the Neighborhood Board Team – [0:01:46]: Quorum was established with 9 members present.
Note: This 11-member Board requires 6 members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.

Members Present: Rodney Awong, Charmaine Doran, Gauis Dupio II, Daniel Smith (7:11 p.m.), Nathan Takeuchi, Michael Taylor, Tony Velasco, Larry Veray, Heide Weber, and Ryan Yamato

Members Absent: Guy Inouye

Guests: Firefighter James Diggins, Captain Lan, Firefighter John, and Firefighter Eric (Honolulu Fire Department Station 20); Lieutenant Glenn Iwasaki (Honolulu Police Department); Director Gene Albano (Mayorʻs Representative); Aaron Wilson (Councilmember Val Okimoto’s Office); Jeff Hickman (Governor Josh Green’s Office); Casey Abe (Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation); Senator Brandon Elefante, Janice Salcedo, Taylor Sayles, and Keila Okamura (Senator Brandon Elefanteʻs Office); Senator Rachele Lamosao; Representative Gregg Takayama; Representative Cory Chun; Representative Trish La Chica, Alani Santana, Tosa Lobendahn, Tiara Tenorio (Representative Trish La Chicaʻs Office); Kris Tanahara (Navy Region Hawaiʻi); JoAnna Delfin (Navy Closure Task Force Red Hill); Vicky Bowie (Pearl City Library); Arlen Ledward (Board of Water Supply); Serah Yogi, Chloe Obuhanych, Jared Kusano, Adriel Garrido, Rylan Koga, Kyle Martin, Aaron Chung (Pearl City High School); Andrea Dias-Machado, Cathy, Dominic Kihano Inocelda, Elizabeth Ahana, Fireflies.ai Notetaker Leelynn, Gordon, Kahea Faria, Kiana R., Kuʻu, Mariko Hirano, Taylor Hunt, Fred “Doc” Brummer, Jocelyn Roberts, Chad Shishido, Linda Lee, Hayami Miyasato, Olelo Videographer, Olelo Virtual (Residents and Community Members); Melissa Urubio (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Names were not included if not legible. There were approximately 56 participants.

PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS — [0:02:54]

A. Honolulu Fire Department — [0:03:09]: Firefighter James Diggins reported December 2025 statistics: 1 structure fire, 1 wildland brush fire, 1 nuisance fire, 1 cooking fire, 3 activated alarms with no fire, 133 medical emergencies, 1 motor vehicle collision with a pedestrian, 13 motor vehicle crashes involving collision, 1 mountain rescue, no ocean rescues, and no hazardous material incidents. He also shared the fire safety tip for the month focused on electrical safety in the home: plug only one heat-producing appliance (coffee maker, toaster, etc.) into a wall outlet at a time; plug major appliances (refrigerators, dryers, stoves, etc.) directly into wall outlets without extension cords or power strips; check that electrical cords are not running across doorways or under carpets as they can fray and spark; use extension cords only temporarily and have licensed electricians install additional receptacle outlets; ensure all electrical work is performed by licensed electricians; and avoid daisy-chaining power taps to reduce current load.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gXFGzMo5uk32gXnMqHnrHsJ2B90rSzal/view?usp=drive_link

B. Honolulu Police Department — [0:05:44]: No representative present. Chair Veray noted they may still be handling residual traffic issues from the accident.

PUBLIC TESTIMONY — [0:06:00]

1. Hawaiian Immersion Program Expansion at Waiau Elementary — [0:07:51]: Kuʻu, a parent from Waiau Elementary Hawaiian highlighted that students must leave their community after 6th grade to continue immersion education elsewhere, contributing to a drop in native Hawaiian enrollment from 40% to 14% at the local intermediate school. She also noted that despite repeated requests for a 7th grade pilot program—supported by over 100 petition signatures—parents have faced obstacles including claims of no funding (contradicting Act 126), prioritization of other programs over the state’s oldest immersion program, and poor communication from the Department of Education. Lastly, she asked the Board to help advocate with the Office of Hawaiian Education to establish the pilot program.
2. K-12 Hawaiian Immersion Pathway — [0:10:07]: Kahea Faria, an education professional who prepares teachers for Hawaiian immersion supported the previous testimony and requested K-12 immersion pathways in every district. She explained that dispersing students across different locations restricts their ability to actively use Hawaiian language.
3. Commitment to Hawaiian Immersion Initiative: Vice Chair Doran thanked the testifiers, confirmed Hawaiian immersion is already a Board priority with an adopted resolution. She encouraged parents to keep the Board informed so they can submit testimony. Chair Veray confirmed that the Board will track this initiative, collaborate with officials, and continue moving forward to help as much as possible.

Member Smith joined the meeting at 7:11 p.m. – 10 members present.

4. Houseless Garbage Collection Pilot Program — [0:14:33]: Resident Mariko Hirano proposed a pilot program placing a dedicated dumpster for houseless residents specifically under the Waiawa Pearl Highlands Station to apply a more humane approach than sweeps. Chair Veray acknowledged her proposal and committed to getting back to Mariko and coordinating with the City to see if there’s an opportunity for this initiative.

BOARD BUSINESS — [0:18:52]

[0:18:53] Vice Chair Doran requested moving Resolution Item D earlier in the agenda because Member Smith (the introducer) and Member Taylor might need to leave early. Chair Veray agreed to this modification with no objections from the Board.

PCNB Resolution Supporting Participatory and Community-Centered Design and Planning for Facilities Throughout Pearl City — [0:20:51]: Vice Chair Doran read the resolution supporting participatory and community-centered design and planning for facilities. The resolution acknowledges the wonderful job Pearl City High School students have done on the dog park design proposal. It requests that the students participate in designing a swimming pool for Pearl City High School. It also asks both the City and State to take steps to implement this type of participatory design program permanently, which is being done in other parts of the nation.
• Resolution: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZS82M0EtQJTEKheyURMCXAcpjSFEB1DS/view?usp=drive_link

[0:21:31] Member Doran MOVED and Member Smith SECONDED to approve the Pearl City Neighborhood Board Resolution Supporting Participatory and Community-Centered Design and Planning for Facilities Throughout Pearl City. The motion was ADOPTED; 8-0-1 (Aye: Awong, Doran, Dupio II, Takeuchi, Taylor, Velasco, Veray, Yamato; Nay: None; Abstain: Weber). — [0:22:45]

PRESENTATIONS — [0:22:51]

A. Pearl City High School Students Presentations on Potential Dog Park at Neil S. Blaisdell Park — [0:22:58]

Group 1: Pearl Canine Designers — [0:24:33]: Serah Yogi and Chloe Obuhanych presented a dog park design featuring a square fence perimeter with separate areas for big and small dogs, using turf and gravel arranged in a bone shape within a rectangular fence to save on bending costs, plus water fountains, benches, bleachers, and equipment throughout. After consulting with RMA Architects, they received operational advice and the key recommendation to make gates the same height as fencing, then created a site plan in Revit software showing 12 picnic tables, 12 fountains, and 8 benches integrated with the surrounding area. The final cost breakdown came to just under $100,000, which forced them to remove many features from their original design to stay within budget.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bn85aZr-0Un8pTmysll1j2PGmXozm86o/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [0:28:02]
1. Dog Park Partnership: Chair Veray praised the students’ work with professional architects and highlighted Blaisdell Park’s shade-providing monkey pot trees as ideal for the dog park, announcing that the Board will meet with American Kennel Club (AKC) organizers to potentially make Pearl City the island’s first location with an off-leash dog park that also hosts dog shows.

Group 2: Dog Park Project – [0:29:27]: Jared Kusano and Adriel Garrido presented a bone-shaped dog park design with concrete walkways, separate areas for big and small dogs, double gates for security, benches, water stations, bleachers, trash cans, and equipment. After consulting with RMA Architects, they refined their design to build around tree roots, move water fountains closer to the source for easier piping, add a third gated area for disabled or misbehaving dogs, include a storage shed for dog show equipment, and consider shade patterns throughout the day. Their cost analysis totaled $27,934 (including $19,497 for amenities and $8,437 for play equipment), leaving $72,066 in remaining budget, though they noted state procurement prices may be cheaper than retail.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QzFF9szC9PTxlBO8SPgDJ1-7JA_ZgnuH/view?usp=drive_link

Group 3: Project Dog Park — [0:33:42]: Rylan Koga presented a 3D model and blueprint for Blaisdell Park addressing current issues including excessive heat with limited shade, lack of pet water fountains, and insufficient engaging elements in existing dog parks. The design features an ADA-accessible double gate entrance, separate areas for big and small dogs, benches and seating in corners, artificial hedge-covered fences for a welcoming appearance, and estimated costs between $10,880 to $15,100 for dog items plus additional amenities.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1inVYr58Wug-x5S1cA8MpbloKtQq9dV_E/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [0:39:19]
1. Design Perimeter: Member Awong asked about the perimeter/dimensions of the dog park. Rylan recalled a rough estimate of 150 by 150 square feet with standard 6-foot fencing.
2. Golden Retriever Owner Appreciation: A resident and longtime golden retriever owner thanked the students for their work and emphasized the importance of shade trees for all-day usability and handicap accessibility, noting that difficult terrain often prevents people with disabilities from using dog parks.

B. Recognize Pearl City High School Students that Participated in the Dog Park Development Project — [0:41:31]: Member Velasco and Member Weber presented certificates of recognition on behalf of Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21. The certificate acknowledged all 14 Pearl City High School students for their outstanding design proposals produced for the Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 Parks and Recreation Committee and praised their innovative agricultural class team that demonstrated innovative, creative, and resourceful ideas during the design process. A certificate of recognition was also presented to teacher Kyle Martin for his outstanding leadership and mentorship in guiding his students to produce design proposals for an off-leash dog park at Neil Blaisdell Park in Pearl City, one of which may be selected for construction.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [0:46:17]
1. Cross-Department Collaboration: Member Awong asked if other Pearl City High School departments like wood shop could assist with items like benches. Teacher Kyle Martin confirmed they have Residential/Commercial Construction and Engineering Technology Programs and they do look for opportunities to cross-collaborate.
2. Support for Dog Park Project: Director Gene Albano congratulated the students on their impressive and courageous presentation, committing to advocate for the dog park project and praising their use of professional Revit software at such a young age.

CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU — [0:49:45]

A. Office of the Mayor — Director Gene Albano, Director Facility Maintenance — [0:49:59]: Director Albano shared highlights from the Mayor’s January newsletter including Kurt Lager’s swearing-in as Ocean Safety Chief, new flood risk maps taking effect on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, construction beginning at Aiea Police Station, transit-oriented housing coming to Kapolei and Kalihi, repeated vandalism at Kapiolani Community College restrooms, and the launch of an improved Honolulu 311 app for reporting community issues. He also provided follow-ups from the last meeting.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NBND1Z9r3B7ebQnCn4AjlyXxe8HGauto/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [0:52:41]
1. Houseless Garbage Collection Pilot: Chair Veray asked Director Albano to look into Mariko Hirano’s testimony about establishing a pilot program with a trash bin for the homeless encampment by the Pearl City train station. Director Albano noted that homelessness director, Roy Miyahira, would be the appropriate individual to ask for further assistance.
2. New 311 App Information: Member Dupio II asked if there’s a new 311 app. Director Albano confirmed yes, explaining it’s more user-friendly and should streamline the process within the City. Member Weber advised making a login (rather than using anonymous) so you can track if your report has been received, is in process, and when it’s been completed. Director Albano emphasized that for follow-up purposes, they need a contact number or someone to talk to, as anonymous reports make follow-up very difficult. Chair Veray provided positive feedback that residents who call him about parking problems in Pearl City notice they’re getting quick responses using the app.

Member Taylor left the meeting at 7:56 p.m. – 9 members present

B. Councilmember Val Okimoto — [0:56:30]: Aaron Wilson provided information regarding Bill 46 requiring Honolulu Police Department to release certain public information to the media and public in a timely manner. He also mentioned that the Committee on Budget met on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 to discuss a bill that would create a searchable online database for City revenues and expenditures, free and open to the public and updated at least monthly.

GOVERNOR’S OFFICE — [0:58:28]

1. Governor Josh Green’s Office – Mr. Jeff Hickman, Public Affairs — [0:58:34]: Jeff Hickman noted that the Governor gave his recent State of the State address. He also provided follow-ups from the last meeting.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CP825vlDe9l1_Xm-QBZxCmPCFX4iBi2b/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [0:59:32]
1. Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery Issue: Chair Veray requested assistance in finding a hydrology expert to address severe erosion at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery, where underground artesian wells are sucking dirt from 25 collapsed grave sites during rainstorms, rendering simple dirt refills ineffective. Jeff Hickman will follow up on this.
2. Wildfire Prevention and Homeless Encampments: Chair Veray met with Pacific Palisades Community Association about wildfire risks from homeless encampments and emailed Director Lambert proposing drone mapping to identify and coordinate removal of these sites with DLNR. Jeff Hickman confirmed the fire safety concerns, and they are awaiting a response to determine if DLNR can provide drone assistance for this proactive measure.
3. HFD Helicopter Training Noise: Chair Veray is coordinating a meeting with Honolulu Fire Department Air Operations to address noise complaints from helicopter training in Pacific Palisades and proposing they relocate training operations to minimize resident disturbance. Jeff Hickman noted that he will contact the public affairs counterpart regarding the meeting.
4. State Fire Marshall: Member Awong asked about fire breaks, noting the State has a new fire marshal. Jeff Hickman confirmed yes and will check on her staff and budget.
2. Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation — Mr. Casey Abe, HDOT State Highways Division — [1:05:04]: Casey Abe provided several updates. First, he noted that the traffic branch did not recommend installing electronic message boards at the Leeward Community College/transit station merge because existing yield signs are already in place. He also noted that he is coordinating with the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) to remove graffiti on Skyline columns 315-316 and working with maintenance crews on vegetation overgrowth, potholes, and trash removal. Regarding the request for a third left turn lane at the Acacia Road intersection, he explained the extensive technical challenges, including insufficient clearance, the need for Home Depot’s approval to eliminate one of their lanes, and widening requirements on Acacia Road. He advised that if the board wants to pursue this, elected officials must email the Deputy Director to submit funding for a future capital improvement project. He also addressed concerns about Hoʻohiki Street lights, which are now managed by the Department of Education (contact Jed Dungca at 808-255-5593). Additionally, he noted that there are currently no plans for a traffic signal at Kamehameha Highway and Waihona Street, though the board can request a traffic study. Finally, he provided updates to questions from the previous meeting.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [1:12:34]
1. Home Depot Double Lane Question: Member Awong asked if Home Depot is paying for the double lane provided by the State, and Casey Abe confirmed they are required to pay for intersection improvements as part of the approval process. Member Awong also questioned why Home Depot receives a double lane when they have far less traffic than the opposite side with only two lanes, and Casey Abe explained that Public Storage shares the parking lot with Home Depot and they accounted for storage facility traffic. Member Awong noted there’s another entrance to the storage lot next to the UH Urban Garden.

2. U-Turn Access for Semi-Trucks: Member Awong asked if semi-tractor trailers from Waimano could use the bus-only U-turn to double back instead of going through traffic signals, noting it’s a jackknife turn. Casey noted that they installed the U-turn for buses only at the City’s request to help City transit.

3. Bus U-Turn Width: Member Awong suggested the bus U-turn lane could be a little bit wider or the apex of the turn could be higher, noting buses have a hard time because it’s not easy to make a turn with a bus with the radius they gave them on that U-turn.

4. Sunset Memorial Park Fence: Chair Veray asked Casey Abe to determine who is responsible for the fence along Kamehameha Highway at the perimeter of Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery.

5. U-Turn at Hawaiian Electric Gate: Member Awong thanked Casey Abe because cars are now allowed to make U-turns across from Hawaiian Electric.

A. STATE LEGISLATURE — [1:17:45]

1. Senator Glenn Wakai (District 15) – [1:17:54]: No representative present.

2. Senator Brandon Elefante (D16) — [1:18:06]: Senator Elefante introduced his staff and outlined his new Senate committee assignments, including chairing the Labor and Technology Committee and serving as vice chair of Transportation while joining the Housing Committee. He discussed community concerns including illegal fireworks enforcement, fire prevention legislation (Act 303), and the State budget outlook, noting the Governor’s proposal to pause future tax credits amid uncertainty about federal funding for programs like Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IA1ZTmsxtObFQ_XY3lN8Uz4ofG_r3iIU/view?usp=drive_link

Member Smith left the meeting at 8:24 p.m. – 8 members present

3. Senator Rachele Lamosao (District 19) — [1:25:50]: Senator Lamosao, newly appointed to represent part of Pearl City, introduced herself and outlined her legislative priorities, including continuing wildfire prevention work under Act 303, caring for streams through partnerships with Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and leveraging federal military funds via the Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program, and providing relief for kupuna on fixed incomes. She announced plans to introduce a GET tax break for residents 60 and older to help with grocery costs, a concern she frequently heard while door-knocking in Pearl City, and encouraged constituents to contact her office for assistance.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/14AqI3O1ur9cSDBfkSDb7yWJ2z9y09nA5/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [1:30:18]
1. Pending Community issues: Chair Veray hopes Senator Aquino passed down two big issues for Pearl City: proposal to move Pearl City post office over to Navy property to open up that intersection; and the 11-acre vacant area that could be used for youth sports facility jointly with the Navy and public.
2. Mauka to Makai Stream Work: Member Weber shared her positive experience participating in a stream health survey for her daughter’s school. Senator Lamosao responded by expressing interest in connecting with community groups in District 19 who want to get involved in stream care projects based on successful community-involved efforts she’s seen statewide.

4. Representative Gregg Takayama (District 34) — [1:33:10]: Representative Takayama reported that he and Representative Chun are working with State law enforcement and the Honolulu Police Department to address dangerous speeding on Hoʻolauleʻa Street near Highlands Intermediate after a school bus was struck. He also noted that as Health Committee Chairman, he is advancing three bills: House Bill (HB) 1535, which offers tax credits for businesses installing automated external defibrillators (AED) to save lives during cardiac emergencies; House Bill (HB) 1853, which would establish Alzheimer’s care centers on each island to help Hawaiʻi residents affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia; and House Bill (HB) 1562, which would create an online mental health resource accessible anytime for young people, addressing current mental health crisis.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [1:40:15]
1. Crosswalk Safety at Highlands: Member Awong requested that when law enforcement addresses speeding on Hoʻolauleʻa Street, they also monitor the crosswalk at Noelani Street and Hoʻolauleʻa Street where Highlands Intermediate students cross without looking, creating dangerous situations with no crosswalk monitors present. Representative Takayama agreed and added that State Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen is working with the City on installing speed humps around the school area.
2. Sheriff Presence Confirmation: Vice Chair Doran noted that she saw police/sheriff cars out there on Monday afternoon.
3. Sign Waving Location: Member Weber noted that she is working with Community Policing, and Hoʻolauleʻa Street is the site they discussed for the next sign waving event. She also noted that she will be reaching out to the school to ask how they would like to be involved.

5. Representative Cory Chun (District 35) — [1:44:52]: Representative Chun shared that he will be continuing as Chair of the House Agriculture and Food Systems Committee, focusing on biosecurity and invasive species management including little fire ants, coqui frogs, and coconut rhinoceros beetles. He also introduced two (2) community-driven bills: House Bill (HB) 1600 to help law enforcement prosecute illegal gambling operations in Manana by tying violations to noise complaints; and House Bill (HB) 1826 to address Pearl City’s feral chicken problem by appropriating funds for collection and disposal of caught chickens rather than focusing solely on trapping efforts.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1evSbVVIsuVvwYQPDhnzffP5xgZ7yi_LS/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [1:48:16]
1. Testimony: Chair Veray announced he will provide testimony supporting Representative Chun’s feral chicken bills with additional solutions, and proposed exploring the feasibility of creating a centralized cat sanctuary where feral cats could be housed and fed in one location instead of throughout the City.
2. Humane Definition Reference: Member Dupio II suggested that anyone with questions about humane methods for addressing feral chickens should take the online Hunter Education program ($20), which clearly defines humane practices. He also raised concerns about banana bunchy top disease/virus as a potential next major agricultural problem, noting that infected trees cannot be salvaged by cutting and regrowing but must be completely removed, resulting in total tree loss.

6. Representative Trish La Chica (District 37) — [1:50:12]: Representative La Chica introduced her staff and highlighted key legislation focused on transportation and pedestrian safety, including House Bill (HB) 2454 to allow State and county implementation of safe routes to school infrastructure funded by the new $5 motor vehicle registration surcharge. She is also advancing House Bill (HB) 2186 to clarify crosswalk safety laws with penalties for violations causing injury, and House Bill (HB) 1782 to establish safety guardrails for minors using Artificial Intelligence (AI) chatbots after incidents of harmful interactions that led to youth suicides. Additionally, she noted that she is working with the City and State on a dedicated bus lane near the Waiawa Pearl Highlands Skyline station to provide direct access for Route 51 from Wahiawa, Mililani, Koa Ridge, and Waipiʻo.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1L4ju3jhKsV883PE5A-bo0jD9Pv182KXJ/view?usp=drive_link
• District 37 Updates: https://reptrishlachica.com/district-updates
• 2026 Session Bills: https://reptrishlachica.com/bills

Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [1:58:19]
1. School Boundary Review for Waipiʻo Peninsula Residents: Chair Veray noted that some residents on the Waiʻpio Peninsula whose children attend Pearl City High School have requested boundary changes. He wanted the group to know that this is on his radar and he will be looking at it closely.
2. Water Safety and Swim Lessons: Member Weber asked Representative La Chica to support efforts to restore water safety and swim lessons in the Department of Education (DOE) curriculum, noting that only 2% of second graders can swim or self-rescue despite living on an island. Representative La Chica confirmed the Committee supported similar legislation last year and will continue to help move it forward if reintroduced this session.

B. CONGRESSIONAL OFFICIALS — [2:00:31]

1. Congressman Ed Case – [2:00:32]: No representative was present.

BOARD BUSINESS (Continued) — [2:00:43]

A. Board letter to Hawaiʻi State Department of Law Enforcement and Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources and the City and County of Honolulu requesting to relocate homeless encampments – [2:00:44]: Item deferred.

B. Meeting is being planned between HFD Air Operations Division, PCNB members, Pacific Palisades residents – [2:00:59]: Item deferred.

C. Amend resolution 2023-01 related to senior housing finance to extend the effect date until 2028 — [2:01:13]: Vice Chair Doran explained that this resolution amends Resolution 2023-01 to extend it for two (2) years in support of improving the senior apartments in Pearl City. She noted that these projects, especially when partially funded by the State, can take a very long time. She also explained that the resolution allows the Chair and board to submit letters of support, which must be dated within 30 days of each application—a process the board completes annually.
• Resolution: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zpd6FaTQSz_VWvfY3Db0GiqhX-MwYvdW/view?usp=drive_link

[2:01:59] Member Doran MOVED and Member Dupio II SECONDED to approve the amendment to Resolution 2023-01 extending the senior housing finance support for two (2) years. The motion was ADOPTED; 7-0-1 (Aye: Awong, Doran, Dupio II, Takeuchi, Velasco, Veray, Yamato; Nay: None; Abstain: Weber). — [2:02:19]
OTHER AGENCIES — [2:03:00]

A. Joint Base Pearl Harbor – Hickam — Ms. Kris Tanahara — [2:03:07]: Kris Tanahara from Navy Region Hawaiʻi reported that they have resumed community white boat tours of Pearl Harbor (occurring every other month) and Saturday in-port ship tours (most Saturdays from 9:00 a.m to 10:30 a.m.). She also announced that the final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai will be released in August, and the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) will be held this summer with dates to be announced.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [2:05:02]
1. Navy Medical Clinic Petty Officer Association Seeks Community Volunteer Opportunities: Chair Veray reported that Navy Base Pearl Harbor’s medical clinic and Petty Officer Association contacted him seeking community volunteer opportunities, and he directed them to the abandoned cemetery project while inviting Board members to suggest additional volunteer needs.

B. Navy Closure Task Force Red Hill – [2:06:00]: JoAnna Delfin announced that Rear Admiral Lester Ortiz replaced Rear Admiral Marc Williams as the new Deputy Commander for the task force at the beginning of the month, and degassing of Tank 20 at the facility will begin by the end of this week with air quality monitoring reports available daily on their website and hourly on their mobile app.

C. Leeward Community College — Chancellor Carlos Peñaloza – [2:07:29]: No representative was present.

D. Pearl City Library — Ms. Vicky Bowie, Branch Manager — [2:07:40]: Vicky Bowie announced that the library will be closed from Sunday, February 15, 2026 to Monday, February 16, 2026 in onservance of President’s Day. She also noted that the library will offer a winter reading challenge “Read for the Gold” (grades K-12) in partnership with Kristi Yamaguchi’s Always Dream, along with introduction to 3D printing classes using donated printers. Lastly, she noted that the library is still finalizing details on their temporary pop-up location during renovation, with updates expected next month.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [2:09:42]
1. Library Location: Chair Veray asked board members to keep their ears and eyes open if they know of a suitable location for the pop-up. He noted that Pearl Ridge has opportunities, but they already have the Aiea Library at that location.
2. 3D Printing Age Requirement: Member Weber asked whether there is an age requirement for the introduction to 3D printing class. Vicky Bowie responded that while there is no set age requirement, students must be accompanied by an adult.

E. Board of Water Supply — Mr. Arlen Ledward, Civil Engineer — [2:10:36]: Arlen Ledward reported no water main breaks in December 2025 and announced that the Board of Water Supply has doubled rebate amounts for water-saving appliances and fixtures including commercial customers. He also distributed wall calendars featuring student work from last year’s poetry and water conservation poster contests.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [2:12:23]
1. Cemetery Hydrology Expert: Chair Veray requested assistance from the Board of Water Supply’s hydrologist regarding a cemetery problem where over 25 grave sites have collapsed with dirt being sucked out, possibly due to an underground stream or lava tubes. Arlen Ledward confirmed they have a hydrologist on staff and State hydrologist contacts who can help investigate the issue.
2. Desalination Plant Planning: Member Awong asked about the desalination plant on Olai Street and raised concerns about the existing old state facility near Hardware Hawaiʻi blocking a potential emergency exit from Kamehameha Industrial Park, suggesting it could be moved 300 feet to open access. He also advocated for more desalination plants on the west side of each island as a backup water source during droughts. Arlen Ledward agreed to provide an update next month.
3. Water Quality Report Sample Dates: Member Weber questioned why the semi-annual water quality report shows contaminant sample data that is two to three years old rather than recent testing results. Arlen said he believes testing is done on a cycle but will get a definitive answer next month.

ASSOCIATIONS — [2:16:14]

A. Pearl City Community Events — Mr. Tony Velasco – [2:16:23]: Member Velasco announced upcoming community events: Pearl City Craft Fair on Sunday, February 1, 2026 at Pearl City Shopping Center (9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.), Lion’s breakfast at Pearl City High School on Saturday, February 14, 2026 (6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.), and Pearl City Community Association bingo at Pearl Highlands Elementary School on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [2:17:12]
1. Legislative Testimony with Mentoring Support Available: Vice Chair Doran announced that Chair Veray will be reaching out to Board members to submit testimony at the State legislature and will offer coaching, mentoring, and writing assistance, noting that the Board has historically made a strong impact in helping legislators pass bills.

BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS — [2:17:59]

A. Regular Board Meeting Minutes Approval — October 28, 2025 minutes – [2:18:05]: No amendments were raised and the minutes were approved as drafted.

CHAIR & BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS — [2:18:17]: 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, February 24, 2026. The Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 meetings are broadcast on ʻŌlelo Channel. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:18 p.m.

Submitted by: Melissa Urubio, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Jeffrey Jones, NCO
Finalized by: Larry Veray, Chair and 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.