PEARL CITY NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 21

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, MAY 26, 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 complete the form on https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/board-testimony.

I. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Larry Veray
A. Pledge of Allegiance followed by Cubmaster Update – Cub Scout Pack 75 – Cubmaster Scott Ogasawara
B. Time Limit Policy and Procedures
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. PUBLIC TESTIMONY (Resident/Community Concerns) – Limited to 3 minutes each for items not on the agenda.

IV. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU OFFICIALS
A. Office of the Mayor – Mr. Gene Albano, Director Facility Maintenance
B. Councilmember Val Okimoto

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

B. 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)

C. STATE EDUCATION
1. University of Hawaiʻi – Leeward Community College – Chancellor Carlos Penaloza

D. CONGRESSIONAL OFFICIALS
1. Congressman Ed Case – Ms. Tristen Fujimoto

VI. PRESENTATIONS
A. Wild Fire Mitigation Employing Goats to reduce foliage – Oahu Grazers – Ms. Raia Olsen
B. Proposed Solar PV Integration Project for Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery and Hale Mohalu I Senior Living Center – Friends for Sunset Memorial Cemetery Nonprofit – Larry Veray

VII. BOARD BUSINESS
A. PCNB Letter to Senator Glenn Wakai asking for his support to influence a special session by the legislature to continue Hawai’i Solar Tax Credits for businesses, nonprofits, schools and community organizations
B. PCNB Letter to Director Transportation Services requesting additional speed humps on Ho’olehua St. or Ho’olana St.
C. Discussion on recent flooding of Pearl City areas and ideas to mitigate blocked streams and culverts
D. Committee Reports

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

IX. BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS
A. Regular Board Meeting Minutes Approval – April 28, 2026 minutes

X. CHAIR & BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. The Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 will be in recess for the month of June. The next board meeting will be on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at Momilani Community Center, 715 Hoomoana St, Pearl City and virtually via WebEx. 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 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, APRIL 28, 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=XNANKVVMHtM

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

I. CALL TO ORDER – [0:02:28]: Chair Veray called the Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 meeting to order at approximately 7:00 p.m. and announced the meeting policy, rules of speaking, and Board procedures.

Pledge of Allegiance and Cubmaster Update – [0:04:02]: Cub Scout Pack 75, led by Cubmaster Scott Ogasawara, opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and shared that the pack recently wrapped up their camp card fundraising in March, extending thanks to the sponsors. Cubmaster Ogasawara also noted that next month, Pack 75 and other packs and troops will place flags and leis at Punchbowl Memorial.

Introduction of the Neighborhood Board Team – [0:08:09]: Quorum was established with 10 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, Guy Inouye, Daniel Smith, Nathan Takeuchi, Michael Taylor, Tony Velasco, Larry Veray, Heidi Weber, and Ryan Yamato.

Members Absent: Gauis Dupio II.

Guests: Cubmaster Scott Ogasawara (Cub Scout Pack 75); Firefighter Routt (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Glenn Iwasaki (Honolulu Police Department, District 3); Mr. Colby Pacupac and Isabelle Myers (Pearl City High School); Director Gene Albano (Mayor’s Representative); Aaron Wilson (Councilmember Val Okimoto’s Office); Jeff Hickman (Governor Josh Green’s Office); Keila Okamura (Senator Brandon Elefante’s Office, D16); Representative Gregg Takayama (D34); Kianna (Representative Cory Chun’s Office, D35); Alani Santana (Representative Trish La Chica’s Office, D37); Chancellor Carlos Penaloza (Leeward Community College / West Oʻahu); Tristen Fujimoto (Congressman Ed Case’s Office); Lei Mahi, Henry Gabriel, Amber Unabia, and Ian K. (Department of Environmental Services); Dennis Hida (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – Hawaiʻi Chapter); Kris Tanahara (Navy Region Hawaiʻi); Michelle Tiemeyer (Navy Closure Task Force Red Hill); Arlen Ledward (Board of Water Supply); Vicky Bowie (Pearl City Library); Tara Sutton (Red Hill Registry); Makanani Rivera (KWO Outreach); Sierra Martin (KWO District 2&3); Fireflies.ai Notetaker Leelynn, Linda Lee, Fred “Doc” Brummer, L. Kida, Tina Myers, Kianna Techesa, Olivia, Myers, Gwen Jacks, Clark Jacks, Jocelyn Roberts, Collette Chang Hasegawa, Sheron Toyomura (Residents/Community Members); Richard (Videographer); ʻŌlelo Virtual; Melissa Urubio (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Names were not included if not legible. There were approximately 51 participants.

II. PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS – [0:09:06]
A. Honolulu Fire Department [0:09:23]: Firefighter Routt presented the March 2026 statistics for Pearl City: zero structure fires, zero wildland/brush fires, zero nuisance fires, one cooking fire, 11 activated alarms with no fire, 134 medical emergencies, zero motor vehicle collisions with pedestrians, five motor vehicle crashes, two mountain rescues, zero ocean rescues, and zero hazardous material incidents. He shared the monthly safety tip on evacuation planning, advising residents to ensure an emergency preparedness plan is in place for environmental emergencies, fires, or natural disasters, to familiarize themselves with at least two escape routes from home, plan an evacuation path, establish a predetermined meeting place, and stay informed by signing up for notifications at HNLalert.gov.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lgGjH9MCtqPVQXyH2_caRvXLGHPdTFQ1/view?usp=drive_link

B. Honolulu Police Department – [0:12:16]: Lieutenant Glenn Iwasaki presented a comparison of February and March 2026 reported incidents: motor vehicle thefts increased from five to eight; burglaries remained at zero; thefts increased from 20 to 22; car break-ins increased from four to seven; total calls for service in the Pearl City area increased from 1,401 to 1,420; and total District 3 calls increased from 4,738 to 4,996. He also shared the monthly safety tip to stay alert and be aware of surroundings, and provided an announcement regarding safety concerns at Pearl City Gateway, where large gatherings of youths have resulted in incidents including a recent armed robbery and an assault rifle brandishing.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:15:23]
1. Neighborhood Crime and Safety Concerns: Chair Veray noted that several of the recently reported stolen vehicles occurred within approximately 1,000 feet of his neighborhood, identifying Noelani Street near a small community park as a current hotspot due to its easy access and tree cover that absorbs noise from break-ins, and added that Pearl City in general remains a high-activity area on Friday and Saturday nights, with gatherings at the gateway near Foodland, Petco, and Walmart often leading to street racing on the H-1 freeway.
2. Pearl City Gateway Safety Concerns: Vice Chair Doran expressed concern about the lack of accountability among Pearl City Gateway businesses for crowd management and safety, noting that incidents including an assault rifle brandishing have occurred repeatedly. Lieutenant Iwasaki explained that the Honolulu Police Department cannot remove individuals from private property without the property owner’s cooperation and encouraged the shopping center’s management to hire off-duty or special duty officers. Vice Chair Doran committed to working with Chair Veray and the Public Safety Committee to draft a letter of support urging businesses to take additional security steps.
3. Surveillance Cameras and Speed Signs: Member Awong suggested installing blue light security camera stations at Pearl City Gateway as a deterrent, similar to those at Walmart, and asked the Honolulu Police Department to consider deploying speed feedback trailer signs at two locations: between Waimano Home Road and Hoʻomoana Street on Komo Mai Drive, and on 880 Hoʻomoana Street near the recreation center. Lieutenant Iwasaki agreed to follow up via email and confirmed speed trailers could be deployed at those locations.

III. RECOGNITION AND PRESENTATIONS – [0:26:07]
A. Pearl City High School Student Ambassadors – Korea Visit [0:26:26]: Member Taylor and Member Weber presented certificates of recognition to Mr. Colby Pacupac, Pearl City High School, for his dedicated service as a chaperone on the Pacific and Asian Affairs Council (PAAC) 2026 Sister State Study Tour to Jeju Island, Republic of Korea, honoring his guidance, professionalism, and leadership in helping students engage with Korean culture, history, and communities. A certificate was also presented to Isabelle Myers, Pearl City High School, for her outstanding service as a student ambassador, recognizing her leadership, curiosity, and spirit of Aloha. As one of only 42 students selected statewide, Isabelle Myers shared that the delegation was the first to visit Jeju island, engaging in cultural exchange with local high school students on issues such as over tourism and pollution.

IV. PUBLIC TESTIMONY – [0:32:40]
1. Red Hill Registry: Tara Sutton, Director of Community Engagement for the Red Hill Registry, reported that the registry is co-designed with the community and focuses on three pillars: tracking health outcomes from fuel-contaminated water exposure, developing educational materials, and connecting residents with local resources. She invited community members to enroll at redhillregistry.org and join the Community Advisory Work Group at redhillregistry.org/caw, and noted that registry team members recently participated in a cleanup along the Pearl Harbor bike path.
2. After-School Traffic Concerns: A community member, Collette, raised concerns about after-school pickup congestion near Pearl Highlands Elementary School and Highlands Intermediate School, noting that children have nearly been struck while crossing the street during the 2:00–2:30 p.m. pickup window. She suggested making Waimano Home Road one-way toward the intermediate school during that window. She also raised concerns about pedestrian safety at crosswalks along Waimano Home Road, requesting that all traffic signals turn red when a walk button is pressed. Chair Veray acknowledged a related bill in the Legislature and requested that Member Smith, as Transportation Committee lead, connect with the community member.
3. Kealahou West Oʻahu (KWO) Homeless Outreach Update: Makanani Rivera from Kealahou West Oʻahu, a nonprofit serving unsheltered, sheltered, and at-risk homeless populations on the Leeward, Central, and North coasts of Oʻahu, reported on outreach for March through April 2026: eight community concern reports received, 62 people encountered of whom 54 were service resistant, and 20 people newly joined the program and are awaiting placement in shelter or housing. She also shared that Kealahou West Oʻahu is hiring full-time street outreach positions (contact Valerie at v.kupiheatuiloma@kwohawaii.org) and is seeking to connect individuals displaced by the Kona low storm with shelter and housing resources (call/text Sierra at 808-728-5034 or Makanani at 808-745-7880).

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:42:47]
1. Inquiry on Encampments and Outreach Efforts: Vice Chair Doran inquired about a new encampment near Public Storage in Pearl City adjacent to a vacant lot, and asked about outreach for individuals living in culverts and streams. Makanani Rivera noted the team visits the Pearl City area on Thursdays and would follow up.
2. Inquiry on Outreach Efforts at the Skyline Lot: Member Awong inquired whether the outreach team had visited the Skyline lot, known as the old banana patch, located near Sam’s Club and the rail towers. Makanani Rivera responded that the team has been visiting the area, noting that while one side was cleaned out and individuals relocated behind the old Lee Trucking black fence, most encounters involve service-resistant individuals, though a few have accepted services.

[0:47:39] Hearing no objections, Chair Veray designated Member Taylor as Chair Pro Tem to preside over the City & County and Officials sections of the meeting, with Chair Veray resuming at the start of Board Business.

V. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU – [0:48:38]
A. Office of the Mayor – [0:48:52]: Director Gene Albano noted that the Mayor’s newsletter is available online. As follow-ups from the March 2026 meeting, he reported: (1) On the HandiVan fleet, Department of Transportation Services (DTS) confirmed as of February 2026, the fleet totaled 218 vehicles with 169 available for service and 49 undergoing maintenance—retired vans are no longer counted in availability calculations, and Department of Transportation Services encouraged riders with concerns to call HandiVan customer service at (808) 456-5555 (press 3) or DTS at (808) 768-8300; (2) In response to Mr. Brummer’s question about off-duty conduct, the Honolulu Fire Department noted it does not have a formal off-duty standard of conduct but reminds personnel to be mindful of their actions at all times as they are under public scrutiny.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:52:21]
1. Roundabout Signage: Member Awong raised concerns about drivers not yielding properly at the roundabout by Manager’s Drive and requested improved signage or conversion to a four-way stop. Director Albano acknowledged the concern.
2. Kona Low Debris Removal at Central Oʻahu Regional Park (CORP): Member Weber inquired about the status of debris at the field used as a staging area after the Kona Low storms. Director Albano confirmed the debris was completely removed and moved to the landfill. He also noted that the contractor is conducting contamination testing, and once cleared, maintenance will be done to restore the field before reopening to the public.
3. Traffic Measurement Update Request: Member Smith noted that he had observed traffic counters in the area and requested an update on the findings from the measurements. Director Albano responded that the presence of those counters was a direct result of community feedback being acted upon.
4. Breene Harimoto Mānana Community Park Crosswalk Removal: Member Awong raised concerns about the removal of a crosswalk near Breene Harimoto Mānana Community Park, noting that bus stops remain in the area without a nearby crosswalk. Director Albano committed to providing a report from the Department of Transportation Services next month.

B. Councilmember Val Okimoto – [0:59:25]: Aaron Wilson from Councilmember Okimoto’s office provided a legislative update: (1) Bill 34 proposes amendments to the flood hazard area ordinance to align with the Federal Emergency Manangement Agency (FEMA) requirements and maintain participation in the National Flood Insurance Program; (2) Resolution 2026-074 authorized roughly $17 million in COVID-19 hazard pay for Teamsters and Allied Workers Union members; (3) Resolution 2026-075 would urge the city to implement weekly soil testing at Central Oʻahu Regional Park and provide results to the public within 24 hours; (4) Speed humps requested near Pine Knoll Villas were not warranted per Honolulu Police Department, but a speed feedback trailer would be considered and the Department of Transportation Services will address signs needing maintenance; and (5) The city requested Honolulu Police Department assistance to continue monitoring the Hoʻomaʻemaʻe area while coordinating with the State for interim speed humps.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:01:21]
1. Pearl City District Park Baseball Field Lighting: Member Smith raised the need for lighting improvements at the lower baseball field at Pearl City District Park. Aaron Wilson confirmed the Councilmember’s office has the Capitol Impovement Programs (CIP) worksheet recommendations and is aware of the targeted areas.
2. Komo Mai Drive / Waimano Home Road Traffic Signal: Member Smith requested that Aaron Wilson coordinate with Department of Transportation Services regarding the ongoing traffic light issue at the intersection of Komo Mai Drive and Waimano Home Road. Aaron Wilson asked Member Smith to email the intersections for a follow-up letter from the Councilmember’s office to the Department of Transportation Services.
3. Stream Jurisdiction on Komo Mai Drive/Children’s House Area: Member Inouye raised concerns about stream levels and a small waterfall near the bridge on Komo Mai Drive adjacent to Children’s House during the Kona Low storms, in the context of Bill 34 and flood insurance. He noted the bridge area, if compromised, could impact approximately 5,000 homes in Palisades. Aaron Wilson agreed to investigate jurisdiction and report back.

VI. GOVERNOR’S OFFICE – [1:06:38]
A. Governor Josh Green’s Office – [1:06:37]: Jeff Hickman reported that approximately 900 applicants have sought disaster relief assistance following the Kona Low flooding and encouraged those who sustained damage to submit their requests as soon as possible. He noted Federal Emergency Manangement Agency and state emergency management teams are actively on-site assisting.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:07:50]
1. Flood Response Jurisdiction and Preemptive Action Concerns: Member Awong expressed concern about the need for preemptive action before future storms, particularly in areas like Waimalu Industrial Park, citing jurisdictional confusion between the City and State regarding stream and culvert responsibility. Jeff Hickman noted that the City and County is responsible for approximately 10 feet on each side of bridges, with the rest under the State. He described emergency protocols requiring responders to wait until weather conditions are safe before deployment and acknowledged criticism received during the storms.
2. Zipper Lane Closure Decision Authority: Member Awong questioned why the zipper lane was shut down during Kona Low 1 storm, given that it is operated by a private contractor rather than State employees, noting it caused significant traffic backup. Jeff Hickman indicated he would look into it.
3. Veto Request for House Bill 961 House Draft 2 Senate Draft 1: Sharon, a member of the public, expressed concern about House Bill 961 House Draft 2 Senate Draft 1, which is currently on the governor’s desk, and requested that the governor veto the bill.

B. Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation – [1:15:06]: No representative present.

VII. STATE LEGISLATURE – [1:15:13]
A. Senator Glenn Wakai (D15) – [1:15:14]: No representative was present.

B. Senator Brandon Elefante (D16) – [1:15:30]: Keila Okamura reported that the legislative session ends on Friday, May 8, 2026. She also provided updates on five items, including a long-term mitigation solution for Komo Mai Drive, Palisades emergency access road funding, e-bike reflector concerns, and noise camera legislation. Keila Okamura also announced that this would be her final meeting, thanking the Board and community for their collaboration.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FD0pGb2U3QJnw7OSLDnsQB8ZdTQlZmLH/view?usp=drive_link

C. Senator Rachele Lamosao (D19) – [1:17:49]: No representative was present.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XxXvCHzNlkf_40DhgKzlUHRQRYG0W7Cx/view?usp=drive_link

D. Representative Gregg Takayama (D34) – [1:18:08]: Representative Takayama reported that with only two weeks left in the session, key bills still alive include: (1) e-bike safety measures requiring helmets for youth under a certain age, prohibiting stunts and wheelies on public roads, and holding parents responsible for minor riders; and (2) e-cigarette restriction bills aimed at curbing youth access to vapes by enforcing existing laws prohibiting sales to those under 21 and targeting flavored products marketed to youth. He noted this is the busiest time of year for legislators, particularly Committee Chairs.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OewUKzfWR_-VRvJCX0i-qaZm5PRWNdGo/view?usp=drive_link

E. Representative Cory Chun (D35) – [1:21:04]: Kianna relayed that Representative Chun sends his apologies for being unable to attend due to the busy legislative session and offered to take questions on his behalf.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yZK9MmrvHTebdexFyUsOuis2V6VNQ-IN/view?usp=drive_link

F. Representative Trish La Chica (D37) – [1:21:37]: Alani Santana reported that Representative La Chica has five bills and four resolutions still alive, with key highlights including Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 162 urging the Department of Education to establish a K–12 Hawaiian immersion school in Kapolei, Capitol Impovement Programs (CIP) projects for the Mililani Public Library and a potential Koa Ridge Elementary School, and additional funding for educator housing and kitchen upgrades across several complexes. Lastly, she shared community highlights including an alcohol awareness rally and recognition of Naomi Koga from Mililani Middle School for winning the Earth Day art contest displayed at the Capitol.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15Sq-4Z8agYzUiZAtQ53HDuNRJ2EnNDE2/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:24:29]
1. Appreciation for Legislative Support: Vice Chair Doran expressed gratitude to the Representative and her office for their hard work and indicated she would continue tracking both versions of the bill.

VIII. STATE EDUCATION – [1:25:00]
A. University of Hawaiʻi – Leeward Community College / West Oʻahu – [1:25:12]: Chancellor Penaloza highlighted several achievements, including Leeward’s fourth consecutive American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Dale Parnell Outstanding Faculty Award presented to automotive instructor Nolan Miyahara, the completion of the 7th ʻĀina to Mākeke food innovation cohort, and the nomination of Kumu Hula Robert Cazimero for an honorary doctorate at fall commencement. He also shared upcoming commencement ceremonies including Waiʻanae Education Center on Friday, May 8, 2026, Leeward Community College on Friday, May 15, 2026 and University of Hawaiʻi West Oʻahu on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Stan Sheriff Center. Chancellor Penaloza also emphasized his focus on building a seamless pipeline between Leeward and University of Hawaiʻi West Oʻahu through a joint advisory group and articulation improvements.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:30:53]
1. Culinary Arts Events and Workforce Training Programs Update: Member Inouye asked about the culinary arts program events and the automotive/Commercial Driver’s License program, recalling past food festivals and workforce training efforts. Chancellor Penaloza explained that culinary enrollment declined after the pandemic, making large events more difficult to host, and noted that while the Commercial Driver’s License program is booming, the bus driving program is still seeking more students.
2. Increasing Community Presence and Outreach: Member Smith suggested that University of Hawaiʻi West Oʻahu consider participating in next year’s Micronesia Fest at Bishop Museum. Chancellor Penaloza agreed, acknowledging the need for a stronger community presence and shared that many long-time neighbors have never visited campus, expressing a commitment to changing that narrative through greater outreach and participation in community events.
3. Expanding Programs on the West Side: Member Awong highlighted the need for more degree programs on the west side to reduce lengthy commutes, and asked whether any programs from Honolulu Community College might relocate to Leeward due to the Dillingham construction. Chancellor Penaloza responded that rather than duplicating existing programs, the focus is on bringing programs to the west side through partnerships, citing Emergency Medical Technician courses now offered at the Kapolei learning center and ongoing efforts to expand offerings, including a new agriculture degree at University of Hawaiʻi West Oʻahu supported by the legislature.

IX. CONGRESSIONAL OFFICIALS – [1:40:19]
A. Congressman Ed Case – [1:40:32]: Tristen Fujimoto reported that a major disaster declaration was approved for the Kona Low storms, with affected residents urged to file insurance claims first and then apply through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) by Sunday, June 7, 2026. She also added that Congressman Case co-sponsored resolutions on United States forces in Iran, submitted over 600 fiscal year (FY) 2027 funding requests including for Native Hawaiian housing and Violence Against Women Act programs, and that student art from the Congressional Art Competition is being displayed at Bishop Museum from Friday, May 1, 2026 to Thursday, May 7, 2026.

[1:42:33] Hearing no objections, Chair Pro Tem Taylor was given permission by Chair Veray to proceed with Presentations.

X. PRESENTATIONS – [1:42:34]
A. City & County of Honolulu, Environmental Services (ENV) – Green Recycling Organic Waste (GROW) New Pilot Program [1:42:45]: Lei Mahi presented the program, a pilot launched on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 in select communities including Waipāhu, Nānākuli, and Mililani, which allows residents to add food scraps such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, meats, and grains to their green compost carts, with an island-wide rollout beginning on Thursday, October 1, 2026. She reminded residents that liquids, plastics, fats/oils/grease, compostable packaging, and pet waste are not accepted, and can direct questions to opala@honolulu.gov or attend available workshops and facility tours.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/14nLokzKCYSoAqspLD1DEHc_IauuajC0G/view?usp=drive_link

B. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) – Hawaiʻi Chapter – [1:51:33]: Dennis Hida reported deeply concerning statistics, noting that four people die by suicide every week in Hawaiʻi, it is the leading cause of death for ages 15–29, and nine youths have died by suicide in the past 40 days. He also shared that the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Hawaiʻi offers free education and training programs for communities, schools, and workplaces, is currently focusing outreach on the construction industry, and has upcoming events including a Construction Hike for Hope at Aiea Loop Trail and an annual fundraising walk in September 2026.
• Presentation: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1Wx3EECPQpGOwxK8AQUAF5RKhOQFgghvb/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=108394441840200395116&rtpof=true&sd=true

[1:58:09] Chair Pro Tem Taylor concluded his role and Chair Veray resumed presiding.

XI. BOARD BUSINESS – [1:58:41]
A. Resolution Supporting Responsible State Action to Expand Housing Opportunities for Local Residents While Protecting Community Character – [1:58:42]: Member Taylor presented a resolution highlighting that only about 20% of Hawaiʻi households can afford the median-priced home, with Pearl City’s median home value in the low $900,000s and a declining proportion of younger residents. He noted that the resolution urges the State and City & County of Honolulu to pursue policies that make first-time homeownership accessible to young residents while balancing affordability with community character, so the next generation can live and thrive in Pearl City.
• Draft Resolution: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BBUjGlsOcOemeCNgip33IWjNeaN9YVOY/view?usp=drive_link

[2:01:07] Member Taylor MOVED and Member Smith SECONDED to adopt the Resolution Supporting Responsible State Action to Expand Housing Opportunities for Local Residents While Protecting Community Character. The motion was ADOPTED; 10-0-0. (Aye: Awong, Doran, Inouye, Smith, Takeuchi, Taylor, Velasco, Veray, Weber, Yamato; Nay: None; Abstain: None.) – [2:01:59]

B. Resolution Calling for Immediate State and City Action to Clear Obstructions and Increase Capacity of Streams, Culverts and Drainage Outlets to Prevent Flooding and Protect Lives and Property – [2:02:13]: Member Yamato presented a resolution responding to three major flooding events in early 2026 that caused over $1 billion in damage, calling for nine specific actions including regular channel maintenance, priority attention to high-risk waterways, vegetation and sediment removal, dedicated flood mitigation funding, and fast-tracking emergency access road planning. The Board also requested the City establish a volunteer adopt-the-drain program and a public education campaign on safe runoff management, while discussion raised concerns about impervious lot paving overwhelming aging infrastructure, illegal private culverts, and the need for aerial drone surveys to identify blockages.
• Draft Resolution: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LeWEkuyE7gmkilpUST5P-V02XUltNxb2/view?usp=drive_link

[2:05:34] Member Yamato MOVED and Member Taylor SECONDED to adopt the Resolution Calling for Immediate State and City Action to Clear Obstructions and Increase Capacity of Streams, Culverts and Drainage Outlets to Prevent Flooding and Protect Lives and Property. Discussion included broad support for the resolution, with members noting that increased development and paving of green spaces has overwhelmed aging drainage infrastructure, citing local examples such as flooding in Palisades, Pearl City Highlands Elementary School, and Noelani Street, and suggesting additional measures including public education on illegal culverts, removal of encampments under bridges, and use of aerial or drone technology to identify drainage blockages throughout the community.

[2:10:12] Chair Veray called for the vote. The motion was ADOPTED; 10-0-0. (Aye: Awong, Doran, Inouye, Smith, Takeuchi, Taylor, Velasco, Veray, Weber, Yamato; Nay: None; Abstain: None.) – [2:10:37]

C. Pearl City Neighborhood Board Letter to the Police Commission Recommending Mike Lambert to be the Next Honolulu Police Chief – [2:10:47]: Chair Veray noted that the Honolulu Police Commission’s interviews are still in progress with five candidates under consideration. He stated it would not be appropriate to draft a letter until it is confirmed that Mr. Lambert is among the finalists. Hearing no objections, the item was deferred to a future meeting.

D. Reports from Board Members on Legislative Testimony – [2:11:47]: Chair Veray thanked all Board members for providing testimony throughout the legislative session.

E. Committee Reports – [2:12:03]: No reports were presented.

XII. OTHER AGENCIES – [2:12:04]
A. Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam – [2:12:21]: Kris Tanahara reported that The Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026, the 30th exercise, is scheduled from Wednesday, June 24, 2026 through Friday, July 31, 2026, featuring approximately 40 surface ships, five submarines, 140 aircraft, and more than 25,000 personnel from multiple nations under the theme “Partners: Integrated and Prepared.” She also noted that approximately 35 sailors, civilians, and Air Force personnel participated in the biannual Pearl City bike path cleanup as part of the ongoing Laulima Navy community service program.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KvBA08Jtq7XVRfpJne6rJm8RGAAgMek6/view?usp=drive_link

Navy Closure Task Force Red Hill – [2:14:02]: Michelle Tiemeyer reported that the Navy Closure Task Force Red Hill began degassing Tank 11 on Monday, April 27, 2026, with hourly updates available on the app and daily updates on their website. She also noted that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently posted its final drinking water assessment report confirming no fuel contamination remains in the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam or ʻAliamanu Military Reservation public water systems, allowing a return to normal drinking water compliance monitoring.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DZopetxzvT9xM6BFeTa7ii4N05TBnU0B/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:15:25]
1. Community Cleanup: Chair Veray noted a community cleanup scheduled at Pearl City Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery for Saturday, May 9, 2026 from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and asked Kris Tanahara to spread the word to military commands interested in participating.

[2:16:06] Chair Veray accidentally deviated from the agenda order, skipping Pearl City Library and proceeding to Board of Water Supply.

C. Board of Water Supply – [2:16:34]: Arlen Ledward of the Board of Water Supply reported a 12-inch water main break near Waimano Home Road and Hoʻomalu Street on Monday, March 9, 2026, and emphasized the importance of summer water conservation despite recent rains, encouraging residents to use shorter showers, check for leaks, and utilize Board of Water Supply rebates at boardofwatersupply.com/7ways. He also shared that the Board of Water Supply parcel near Costco will be retained for a future base yard with the project deferred indefinitely, and clarified that Customer Confidence Reports reflect prior-year test results due to required sampling and Environmental Protection Agency reporting timelines.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uuHAvtqcYR_9BvSADrBRIrtLAMFO0_3U/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:19:21]
1. Toilet Tabs: Member Weber requested for leak-testing toilet tabs and shared a personal experience where a silent toilet leak caused water usage to spike from 4,000–5,000 gallons to 14,000 gallons per month, urging everyone to check their toilets even if no leak is audible.

[2:20:16] Hearing no objections, Chair Veray returned to Item XII-B Pearl City Library.

C. Pearl City Library – [2:20:21]: Vicky Bowie reported that plans for the Pearl City Library pop-up location near the former Fantastic Kid Zone at Pearl Ridge are progressing, with an architect advancing toward the construction phase, and that a closure and opening date is expected to be announced at the next meeting.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:20:55]
1. Shadow Box Display Request: Chair Veray asked Ms. Bowie to consider reserving wall space in the renovated library for two shadow box displays—one for the Pearl City Neighborhood Board and one for the Pearl City Lions Club—as part of the long-term renovation plans.
2. Pop-Up Location: Member Awong asked about the location of the library pop-up, inquiring whether it would be at the former Sears location. Vicky Bowie clarified that it will be near that area, specifically at the former Fantastic Kid Zone next to the golf, bowling, and games area, across from Auntie Anne’s near the restrooms.

D. Pearl City Community Events – [2:23:18]: Member Velasco announced the following upcoming community events: Pearl City Craft Fair on Sunday, May 3, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; and Pearl City High School Graduation on Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

XIII. BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS – [2:23:39]
A. Regular Board Meeting Minutes Approval – March 24, 2026 – [2:23:40]: With no corrections offered, the minutes were APPROVED as written.

XIV. CHAIR & BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:23:53]: Chair Veray announced that the next Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 meeting will be held hybrid – virtual via WebEx and in-person at Momilani Community Center, 715 Hoʻomana St., Pearl City, on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. He also noted that there will be no meeting in June 2026 (recess). Lastly, he shared that meetings are broadcast on Focus Channel 49: 2nd Saturday at 6:00 p.m., and 1st and 3rd Friday at 1:00 p.m. Lastly, he also reminded members to submit donations to the Hawaiʻi Food Bank, noting that Melissa was also available to collect contributions. The meeting was adjourned at 9:25 p.m.

Submitted by: Melissa Urubio, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Robert Whitsell, Deputy, 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.