PEARL CITY NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 21

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, JULY 28, 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 Boulevard, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817, fax (808) 768-3711, or complete the form on https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/board-testimony.

I. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Pro-Tem 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. Roll Call (All board members must have their video turned on)

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

III. COMMUNITY RECOGNTION
A. Recognize Honolulu Police Officer Sgt. Jonathan Frye
B. Pearl City welcomes our new Chief of Police for Honolulu Police Department – Chief David Lazar

IV. ELECTION OF OFFICERS – To serve from July 2026 to June 30, 2027: Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, and any other officer the board determines it needs to conduct its business.

V. PUBLIC TESTIMONY (Resident/Community Concerns) – Limited to 3 minutes each for items not on the agenda.
VI. PRESENTATIONS
A. Child Exploitation Prevention Education – Ms. Ashley Flick from Hoaloha Project

VII. BOARD BUSINESS
A. Board decision of meeting location, time, place, recess month(s)
B. Adoption of Oral Testimony Rules
C. Board Decision for Committees and respective Chairs: Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization Citizen Advisory Committee (OMPO CAC), Restoration Advisory Board (RAB)
D. Committee Reports
E. Letter to Department of Transportation Services (DTS) stating PCNB approval for Pearl City Shopping Center to host Christmas Parade – Board Action

VIII. BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS
A. Regular Board Meeting Minutes Approval – May 26, 2026 minutes

IX. CHAIR & BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. The next Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 board meeting will be on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at Momilani Community Center, 715 Hoʻomoana 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 WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
TUESDAY, MAY 26, 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=O_YFIGWPvts

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

CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:21]: Chair Veray called the Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 meeting to order at approximately 7:12 p.m. and introduced the meeting policy, rules of speaking, and Board procedures.

Pledge of Allegiance and Cubmaster Update – [0:02:09]: Cub Scout Pack 75, led by Cubmaster Scott Ogasawara, opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. Chair Veray acknowledged Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, and Girl Scouts who placed leis on veterans’ graves over the Memorial Day weekend.

Introduction of the Neighborhood Board Team – [0:03:05]: Quorum was established with nine 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, Gaius Dupio II, Guy Inouye, Daniel Smith, Tony Velasco, Larry Veray, Heidi Weber, and Ryan Yamato.

Members Absent: Nathan Takeuchi and Michael Taylor.

Guests: John Paulo (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Keoni Hong (Honolulu Police Department); Honolulu Police Department District 3; Director Gene Albano (Mayor’s Representative); Aaron Wilson (Councilmember Val Okimoto’s Office); Casey Abe (Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation); Senator Brandon Elefante (D16); Taylor Sayles (Senator Elefante’s Office); Senator Rachele Lamosao (D19); Representative Cory Chun (D35); Tosa Lobendahn (Representative Trish La Chica’s Office, D37); Raia Olsen (Oʻahu Grazers); 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); Piper Weber, Fireflies.ai Notetaker Leelynn, Hayami Miyazato, Johnnie-Mae L. Perry, Keith Hui, Doc Brummer, Karen Davis, Collette Chang Hasegawa, Dominic Inocelda (Residents and Community Members); ʻOlelo Virtual; Melissa Urubio (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Names were not included if not legible. There were approximately 46 participants.

[0:04:01] Hearing no objections, Chair Veray announced that the wildfire mitigation presentation by Raia Olsen would be moved up on the agenda after community concerns.

PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS – [0:04:23]

Honolulu Fire Department – [0:04:33]: Firefighter John Paulo presented the April 2026 statistics for the Pearl City area: one nuisance call, two structure fires, zero wildland/brush fires, one cooking fire, 12 activated alarms with no fire, 117 medical emergencies, two motor vehicle collisions with pedestrians, three motor vehicle crashes, one mountain rescue, zero ocean rescues, and one hazardous materials call. He shared the monthly fire safety tip, warning residents that Hawaiʻi is entering a period of heightened wildfire risk and encouraging them to clear dry brush, avoid spark-creating activities, and stay informed through fire.honolulu.gov and hawaiiwildfire.org.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JJb8Mvbc2zWkjGsRYz-ihSS4ttWYCj76/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:06:18]
1. Coverage Area Clarification: Member Weber asked whether the report covered both the Waiau and Pearl City fire stations. Firefighter Paulo confirmed that the statistics reflect the entire service area.

Honolulu Police Department – [0:07:07]: Lieutenant Keoni Hong presented a comparison of March and April 2026 statistics: motor vehicle thefts increased from eight to 14; burglaries increased from zero to two; thefts increased from 22 to 27; car break-ins decreased from seven to five; and total calls for service increased from 1,420 to 1,453. He also provided two updates from the previous meeting: (1) the speed feedback trailer is currently deployed near Pearl City District Park on Hoʻomaʻemaʻe Street as of Friday, May 22, 2026 and will remain for approximately two weeks; and (2) Pearl City Gateway security has been more proactive in dispersing groups without business at the shopping center, and management was encouraged to increase parking lot lighting to deter gatherings in darker areas.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:08:41]
1. Speed Trailer Data Collection: Member Smith asked whether the speed trailer collects data. Lieutenant Hong clarified that the current unit is a deterrent device and does not collect running data.
2. Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery Security: Chair Veray reported suspicious activity at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery, including a broken crypt/vault that was resealed by a community member, and raised ongoing concerns about a repeat offender who has stolen over 100 bronze plaques and continues to return despite being trespassed and jailed. He requested that Lieutenant Hong increase patrols at the cemetery after 7:00 p.m., also noting that the adjacent Pearl City Business Plaza has generated 153 police reports since January. Lieutenant Hong agreed to assist.

PUBLIC TESTIMONY (Resident/Community Concerns) – [0:12:19]

Faded Crosswalk at Pearl City Highlands Elementary – [0:12:48]: Piper Weber reported that the crosswalk at the intersection of Hoʻomaʻemaʻe Street and Waimano Home Road is entirely faded and nearly invisible, posing a safety risk for children walking to school. Chair Veray commended her as the youngest resident to present to the Board and requested that she submit her concern in writing so the Board could formally endorse it and forward it to the Department of Transportation Services and Director Albano for action.

[0:14:51] Hearing no objections, Chair Veray took the agenda out of order to hear Item VI-A: Wildfire Mitigation Employing Goats to Reduce Foliage – Oʻahu Grazers; however, due to the presenter’s technical difficulties, Chair Veray proceeded to the next agenda item.

CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU OFFICIALS – [0:18:51]

Office of the Mayor – [0:19:07]: Director Albano highlighted two items from the Mayor’s newsletter: the Oʻahu Food Systems Draft Plan is open for public comment through Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at resilientoahu.org/foodsystemsplan, and the City continues Kona Low storm recovery efforts with resources available at oneoahu.org. Director Albano reported that a four-way stop near Manager’s Drive was not warranted but that the Department of Transportation Services will investigate signage improvements while a full concrete roundabout is in design, and that the removed crosswalk near Mānana Community Park at Wahinani Street was consolidated with the Nānākai Street crosswalk, which will be relocated to the Moanalua Road signalized intersection with a paved path to be installed along Waimano Home Road.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iuJW2h67ULtgIaHI_N0zuYOLIahUp6H_/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:25:38]
1. Stream and Culvert Flooding Near Children’s House: Member Inouye raised concerns about high water levels and a small waterfall near the river on Komo Mai Drive adjacent to Children’s House and Leeward Community Church during the second Kona Low storm. Director Albano explained that the increased flow was likely due to ground saturation from the first storm and committed to addressing vegetation under the bridge, noting it is now a priority as a potential wildfire fuel source during the dry season.
2. Overgrowth, Fallen Tree and Raised Crosswalk Request: Vice Chair Doran followed up on an email from two months prior regarding overgrown culverts, trees, and a tree that partially fell on Akepa Street near Palisades Elementary School. She also requested a response regarding a longstanding sidewalk request in the Mānana neighborhood. Director Albano committed to correspond with the Director of Parks and Recreation to prioritize the Akepa maintenance.
3. Proactive Seasonal Planning for Wildfire and Flooding: Member Awong asked whether the City plans to take a proactive approach for both wildfire and upcoming flooding seasons.
4. Skyline Crosswalk Signage: Member Awong raised concerns about poor signage at the crosswalk on Kamehameha Highway near the Skyline station, noting that pedestrians frequently fail to press the activation button. Chair Veray also added that the audible tone for visually impaired pedestrians at that location was reported as nonfunctional.
5. Street Restriping: Member Inouye commended City workers for restriping Auhuu Street near Akepa Street.
6. Waiawa Stream Cleanup: Chair Veray asked Director Albano to help coordinate a volunteer stream cleanup at the Waiawa stream bridge area along the bike trail, offering to involve Navy personnel and community volunteers. Director Albano expressed willingness to work together and acknowledged the urgency of the flooding risk in that area.

Councilmember Val Okimoto – [0:33:34]: Aaron Wilson reported that Bill 8, addressing animal-related disturbances and responsible pet ownership, was advanced for third reading, while Bill 34, relating to flood hazard construction standards, remains under review; departmental budgets are also being reviewed ahead of the full Council meeting on Wednesday, June 3, 2026. He additionally noted that the Department of Transportation Services will install a “No Parking Here to Corner” sign on the mauka side of Kumoana Street approaching Kaweloka Street to improve traffic operations. Lastly, Aaron Wilson confirmed that he forwarded a Board member’s signal pattern inquiry to the Department of Transportation Services and is awaiting their response.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:35:46]
1. Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery Trash Removal: Chair Veray requested assistance from Councilmember Okimoto’s office in coordinating with Environmental Services to pick up approximately 120–130 trash bags collected at the Saturday, May 9, 2026 community cleanup of Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery. Aaron Wilson agreed to follow up the next day.
2. Traffic Signal at Komo Mai Drive and Waimano Home Road: Member Smith raised concerns about the traffic signals at Komo Mai Drive and Waimano Home Road, requesting action to have them fixed. Aaron Wilson confirmed he had already contacted the traffic signals department, asking for a thorough technical explanation of whether the adjustment is feasible and the specific reasons if it is not.

STATE OFFICIALS – [0:37:30]

Governor’s Office – [0:37:31]: No representative present.

Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation – [0:37:55]: Casey Abe presented his final report as the Board’s representative, noting that graffiti has been addressed but recurs, a damaged security fence and missing utility cover under the H-1 viaduct pose pedestrian hazards, and Kamehameha Highway resurfacing is tentatively scheduled for fall 2027 with a separate project to replace asphalt with concrete on the H-2 northbound slab. He also reported that a new rolling gate and increased overnight private security patrols have been installed at the Commercial Driver Licensing base yard near 1st Street in response to constituent complaints, and that he will follow up on Waiawa stream flooding at a future meeting. Lastly, Casey Abe announced his transition to the Highways Materials Testing and Research Branch and introduced Mr. Maaza Mekuria as his replacement starting at the July meeting.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:42:41]
1. Appreciation and Cemetery Fence Repair: Chair Veray and Board members expressed gratitude to Casey Abe for his responsiveness and service, noting that every concern brought to him had been addressed. Chair Veray specifically thanked him for having the cemetery fence repaired.
2. Recurring Pothole at Kamehameha Highway and Waimano Home Road: Member Weber noted a recurring pothole in the westbound lane of Kamehameha Highway at the right turn onto Waimano Home Road, suggesting a possible sinkhole. Casey Abe agreed to look into it and refer the matter to his replacement.
3. Steel Plate Hazard on Moana Road H-1 On-Ramp: Chair Veray reported a large steel plate protruding vertically from the westbound H-1 on-ramp at Moanalua Road, creating a dangerous road hazard. Casey Abe acknowledged the concern.

STATE LEGISLATURE – [0:46:09]

Senator Glenn Wakai (D15) – [0:46:15]: No representative was present.

Senator Brandon Elefante (D16) – [0:46:21]: Senator Elefante reported highlights from the 2026 legislative session, noting five bills passed including Senate Bill 2140 relating to county labor standards and Senate Bill 3157 relating to transportation, which expands red light and speed cameras by up to two per senatorial district annually. He highlighted Capital Improvement Plan funding including $1 million for health and safety code construction at the Waimano Hale Complex, $3.7 million for building renovation, and $1.6 million for roof replacement. He also announced $8 million for continued Red Hill monitoring in partnership with the Navy.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/116zdTjGHJHgR6imuEIsi3QZr1oQMSr9r/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:50:30]
1. Wildfire Funding and State Fire Marshal: Member Awong asked whether the failed wildfire funding bill would affect the State Fire Marshal’s office. Senator Elefante clarified that the State Fire Marshal office remains funded with positions reclassified, and that firebreak setback legislation with associated funding passed last session and remains active. He committed to checking on specific wildfire mitigation funding with Senator Lamosao. He also noted that while the county owns many streams and surrounding areas, state-controlled portions fall under the Department of Land and Natural Resources jurisdiction, and the Pearl City delegation is actively working with State and partners to clear those areas.
2. Red Hill Monitoring Well Near St. Elizabeth Church: Member Inouye, representing Pearl City on the Restoration Advisory Board, raised concerns about a closed monitoring well near St. Elizabeth Church where the Red Hill plume may be flowing, requesting the well be reopened. Senator Elefante acknowledged he had previously advocated for this well and committed to look into the matter with federal partners.
3. Palisades Emergency Ingress/Egress Funding: Member Velasco asked about the $1 million Capital Improvement Plan for emergency ingress/egress. Senator Elefante confirmed the funding is still active for three years and that he and Representative Takayama are working with Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation to encumber those funds for the initial phases.
4. Dashcam Legislation Inquiry: Member Dupio II relayed a constituent’s question about whether legislation had outlawed dashcams on vehicles. Senator Elefante indicated he would check on the specific law. Member Weber clarified that the restriction relates to camera placement blocking the front windshield’s field of vision rather than a total ban.
5. Cemetery Grant Funding: Chair Veray thanked Senator Elefante and Representative Takayama for supporting a $150,000 grant from the Governor for the next phase of Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery recovery. Senator Elefante expressed appreciation for Chair Veray’s leadership as president of the Friends of Sunset Memorial Cemetery.

Senator Rachele Lamosao (D19) – [0:59:16]: Senator Lamosao recognized the Pearl City Interact Club’s community service and third anniversary, and reported securing $800,000 for shoreline and stream mitigation in Senate District 19 as seed money for federal matching funds. She also noted a $50,000 appropriation for humane feral chicken disposal. Additionally, she highlighted Act 24, a tax relief bill projected to save the average Pearl City household $1,239 annually by 2031, with cumulative savings of $7,326 between 2027 and 2031.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:03:26]
1. Scope of Stream Mitigation Funding: Member Inouye asked whether the $800,000 covers all streams. Senator Lamosao confirmed it covers all streams in Senate District 19, noting a joint meeting with Senator Elefante and Representative Takayama is planned to discuss land management approaches, including water retention systems, to reduce water pulse downstream.
2. Island-Wide Drone Mapping of Streams: Member Awong and Member Inouye urged a proactive, island-wide drone survey of streams to identify maintenance needs before flooding season, noting that Pearl City has three streams converging and that acting reactively after disasters causes greater damage. Senator Lamosao agreed, emphasizing the importance of community-wide collaboration and all-hands efforts to protect the island state’s limited resources.

Representative Gregg Takayama (D34) – [1:08:41]: No representative present.

Representative Cory Chun (D35) – [1:08:53]: Representative Chun highlighted three bills from the 2026 session: Senate Bill 2892 addressing humane feral chicken disposal, House Bill 2498 creating a pilot program to harden care homes and foster facilities for hurricane sheltering in place, and House Bill 1969 expanding colorectal cancer screening for uninsured and underinsured individuals. He also updated the Board on Waiawa stream, noting jurisdictional challenges among multiple property owners, a Department of Land and Natural Resources bid awarded to clear debris near the pedestrian bridge, and the need for a comprehensive watershed management plan.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JsnNSVw-B9Jx1GuVfsI0hB6dzaujMbRw/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:15:03]
1. Stream Debris, Fire Mitigation, and Feral Animal Concerns: Chair Veray noted that stream debris is worsened by Albizia trees snapping upstream and homeless individuals dumping bicycles, shopping carts, and other debris off bridges, causing dangerous jams. He also raised fire mitigation concerns related to homeless encampments near the driving ranges, and mentioned that 35 feral cats will soon be removed from Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery, though their placement remains unresolved.
2. Senior Care Home Spending Bill: Member Awong asked for an update on last year’s bill that increased the personal needs allowance by $50 for seniors in care homes. Representative Chun confirmed the bill was implemented and noted he had not received any complaints, suggesting the additional allowance is being successfully utilized.
3. Use of Military and Prison Resources for Stream Mitigation: Member Awong asked whether the State could enlist military or prison labor for stream mitigation. Representative Chun indicated all options are being explored, but noted jurisdictional complexities with private property and the distinction between emergency and non-emergency access.

Representative Trish La Chica (D37) – [1:19:50]: Tosa Lobendahn reported two major bills: Senate Bill 3001, establishing Artificial Intelligence (AI) protections for minors, passed in collaboration with Senator Keohokalole; and House Bill 1785, addressing school bus contracting to improve transportation procurement and service reliability for students. She also announced that their office helped secure $18.6 million for Kamehameha Highway repaving from Ka Uka Boulevard to Waipahu Street, and acknowledged Vice Chair Doran for her support of Senate Concurrent Resolution 162, which urges the Department of Education to develop a K–12 Hawaiian language immersion school in Kapolei and was successfully adopted this session. Lastly, she congratulated all 2026 graduates and expressed gratitude to the Board for their continued advocacy and legislative partnership.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zLslQ0C9zH4Efabjpg-zSANPES4oWSBF/view?usp=drive_link

STATE EDUCATION – [1:23:51]

Chancellor Carlos Penaloza (University of Hawaiʻi – Leeward Community College) – [1:23:52]: No representative present.

CONGRESSIONAL OFFICIALS – [1:23:58]

Congressman Ed Case – [1:23:59]: No representative present.

PRESENTATIONS – [1:24:06]

Wildfire Mitigation Employing Goats to Reduce Foliage – Oʻahu Grazers – [1:24:24]: Raia Olsen of Oʻahu Grazers presented on prescribed grazing as a wildfire mitigation strategy, explaining that it uses livestock — particularly sheep and goats — to reduce invasive grass fuel loads that carry fire rapidly, utilizing temporary electric fencing, portable water troughs, daily monitoring, and livestock guardian dogs. She also recommended that communities pursue Firewise certification through the Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization (HWMO) to access grant funding, with coordinators available to assist.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vU-1tmXzuRV0vsVIcSfitRMhMs0vzNd2/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:34:35]
1. Funding Sources: Chair Veray asked about funding. Raia Olsen explained that projects are funded by private landowners, neighborhoods with Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization grant funding, or City/State fire-related grants. She recommended first confirming Firewise certification eligibility and working directly with Oʻahu Grazers on site-specific proposals.
2. Potential Sites in Pacific Palisades: Vice Chair Doran noted making Palisades a Firewise community, given significant surrounding State property, and committed to following up if the effort moves forward.
3. Prescribed Grazing Costs: Member Dupio II expressed enthusiasm for prescribed grazing, drawing a parallel to tech companies like Google and Microsoft using goats and sheep for eco-friendly vegetation management, and asked about the cost. Raia Olsen explained that pricing is highly site-specific, ranging from $800 to $5,000 per acre, and depends on factors such as terrain, existing fencing, site accessibility, security risks, and proximity to roads or neighborhoods — with smaller or more remote and high-risk sites generally costing more.
4. Handling Tall Grass: Member Weber asked whether goats and sheep can handle seven to eight foot invasive grasses. Raia Olsen noted that sheep and goats work together to target different vegetation types, and while most effective on younger grass, they can also thin mature stands to make follow-up mowing or weed-whacking easier and safer.
5. Waiʻalae Iki Experience: Member Awong asked about the Waiʻalae Iki neighborhood board’s experience. Raia Olsen explained they hired Oʻahu Grazers through Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization grant funding as a Firewise community to manage a City-owned underdeveloped park behind Kalani High School that was prone to fires.
6. Call to Action on Firewise Certification and Fire Risk Prioritization: Chair Veray called on the Board to pursue Firewise certification for Pearl City and begin developing a prioritized list of areas where prescribed grazing could be used to reduce fire risk. Raia Olsen noted that Firewise has community coordinators who will attend meetings and guide communities through the certification process.

Proposed Solar PV Integration Project for Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery – [1:44:54]: Chair Veray announced that the solar project for Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery is progressing and deferred a detailed update to the July meeting.

BOARD BUSINESS – [1:45:07]

PCNB Letter to Senator Glenn Wakai – Hawaii Solar Tax Credits – [1:45:08]: Chair Veray noted that discussions with the Governor are ongoing and deferred the letter to a future meeting pending those developments.

PCNB Letter to Director of Transportation Services – [1:45:30]: Member Weber summarized a draft letter drafted by the Board supporting traffic calming on Hoʻomaʻemaʻe Street, which connects Waimano Home Road to Hoʻolauleʻa Street. She noted that Director Roger Morton proposed two speed bumps between Hoolehua Street and Hoʻolauleʻa Street near Pearl City Highlands Elementary School, Pearl City District Park, and Highlands Intermediate School. She added that the Board supports traffic calming but wishes to request reconsideration of one speed bump’s location to better align with midblock crosswalks serving the elementary and intermediate schools. Chair Veray deferred the letter pending a meeting to negotiate placement with the Department of Transportation Services, to be finalized by the July meeting if needed.

Discussion on Recent Flooding of Pearl City Areas – [1:49:23]: Chair Veray noted the flooding discussion was addressed throughout the meeting. He expressed optimism about forming a coordinated plan with the Navy, legislators, and City agencies to address stream and culvert blockages.

Committee Reports – [1:49:44]: Member Inouye reported on the Red Hill Restoration Advisory Board, noting collaboration with Board of Water Supply (BWS), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Department of Health, with approximately 12 board members working to hold agencies accountable. Member Smith reported attending the Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Citizens Advisory Committee and noted plans to raise questions about efficient bus connections to Pearl City Highlands rail station and a proposed bus depot at Pearl Ridge.

OTHER AGENCIES – [1:51:55]

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam – [1:52:08]: Kris Tanahara reported that Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026 is scheduled from Wednesday, June 24, 2026 through Friday, July 31, 2026, involving 31 nations, approximately 40 surface ships, five submarines, 140 aircrafts, and more than 25,000 personnel. She noted that they are looking for community service opportunities for visiting sailors and encouraged the Board to reach out. She also announced a Community Legacy Tour of Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona on Friday, June 5, 2026, with seats still available, and month ship tours on Saturdays at 9:00 a.m. with capacity for up to 20 participants. Lastly, she reported that on Monday, May 18, 2026, a crew of 10 sailors cleaned up illegally dumped bulky items including carpet, mattresses, and furniture on Lehua Avenue on Navy property.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uj3wgP-I5XJlEC5XtzDo8w-UEh6H20MD/view?usp=drive_link

Navy Closure Task Force Red Hill – [1:56:39]: Michelle Tiemeyer reported that degassing of Tank 11 continues, after which the tank will move into the cleaning phase of decommissioning. She clarified there has been no evidence of pool migration from the Red Hill facility, and that all groundwater monitoring data is publicly available at the Joint Base Pearl Harbor Safe Waters website.
• Highlights: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cA8M18gimygdx4_LqK-VS9T1mHfDT3Wy/view?usp=drive_link

Pearl City Library – [1:58:08]: Vicky Bowie reported that the library will be closed on Thursday, June 11, 2026 for Kamehameha Day. She announced that the lease for the library’s pop-up location at Pearl Ridge is pending Attorney General approval, with closure and reopening dates to be announced once finalized. She also highlighted the Summer Reading Program running from Monday, June 1, 2026 through Friday, July 31, 2026, open to all ages with prizes including roundtrip Alaska Airlines tickets, with registration available at www.librarieshawaii.org.

Board of Water Supply – [2:00:06]: Arlen Ledward reported three water main breaks in April 2026: a 12-inch main at Waimano Home Road and Hoʻomalu Street on Thursday, April 2, 2026; an 8-inch main at 2368 ʻAnini Place on Monday, April 20, 2026; and a 12-inch main at 1080 Kuala Street on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. He also shared the monthly announcement highlighting rebates of up to $200 per toilet for Water Sense-labeled toilets (1.28 gallons per flush or less), which can reduce water use by 20–60%, available for purchases made on or after Thursday, January 1, 2026, through the Water Sensible Rebate Program at boardofwatersupply.com/rebates.

Pearl City Community Events – [2:02:12]: Member Velasco announced that the Pearl City Shopping Center Craft Fair will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Chair Veray also added that the Pearl City Community Association is seeking new members.

BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS – [2:02:37]

Regular Board Meeting Minutes Approval – April 28, 2026 – [2:02:47]: With no corrections offered, the minutes were APPROVED as written; 9-0-0. (Aye: Awong, Doran, Dupio II, Inouye, Smith, Velasco, Veray, Weber, Yamato; Nay: None; Abstain: None.) – [2:02:47]

[2:02:56] Hearing no objections, Chair Veray allowed Tara Sutton to make an announcement regarding Red Hill Registry.

Red Hill Registry Update – [2:03:06]: Tara Sutton from the Red Hill Registry provided an update on the registry’s three focus areas: tracking long-term health outcomes among those at risk of fuel-contaminated water exposure, developing educational materials for both community members and healthcare providers, and connecting residents with local resources through a nationwide directory. She announced the launch of a second round of community surveys and focus groups seeking feedback on enrollment questionnaires, educational materials, and support resources, available as a 15-minute online survey or a 2-hour focus group.

CHAIR & BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:06:46]: Chair Veray announced that the previously planned emergency disaster preparedness special meeting will be rescheduled for July, with legislators invited to facilitate, emphasizing the urgency of helping Pearl City residents fortify their homes ahead of hurricane season. He also announced that the Board will be in recess for June 2026, with the next meeting on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at Momilani Community Center and virtually via WebEx, and that meetings are broadcast on Focus Channel 49 on the 2nd Saturday at 6:00 p.m. and 1st and 3rd Fridays at 1:00 p.m. Lastly, he noted that as the current Board term concludes, executive positions – Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer – will be reviewed at the July meeting, and interested members were encouraged to notify the Chair and Vice Chair. The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 p.m.

Submitted by: Melissa Urubio, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, 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.