WAI‘ANAE COAST NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 24

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 6:30 P.M.
Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=maeed5df2e50a092fa1c71b930428e094
Meeting Number / Access Code: 2492 938 7667
Password: NB24 (6224 from phones and video systems)
Join by phone: +1-408-418-9388 United States Toll
*New Physical Location: Wai’anae Public Library (meeting room) 85-625 Farrington Hwy, Wai’anae, HI 96792
Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15Jr_oT5HYGh5APaB2jHRsetQtIb71X0N
Neighborhood Commission Office YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice

Rules of Speaking: Anyone intending to speak, we will ask that in-person attendees’ line up at the microphone.
Attendees joining us virtually, please raise your virtual hand. When recognized by the Chair, state your name clearly
for the minutes. Comments must be kept under two (2) minutes. Official’s monthly reports must be kept under three
(3) minutes. Presentations are asked to stay under ten (10) minutes. Sergeant-At-Arms will be keeping time, please
conclude your comments when the timer goes off or asked to end by the Chair. When making comments, please
address your remarks to the Chair. Silence all electronic devices.

Working Agreements: Please be respectful while others are speaking, let’s agree to disagree and please refrain from making any comments and gestures towards fellow community members on any topic. While addressing concern please stay within the 2 minutes or yield the remaining of your time if less and try to stay on topic one concern at a time. No more than two concerns shall be heard in one single meeting any more than the allotted amount please feel free to fill out our concern sheets in writing or speak to me after our meeting is adjourned.

Ground Rules: We have a tight schedule. To finish on time, community concerns and questions for presenters will be limited. Subcommittees are created to provide further discussion and address concerns. The Board agenda is to bring to the floor so that the community may be aware of the events and interact unrestricted at subcommittees.

Order of Decorum – The Neighborhood Plan states: §2-13-104 Standards of conduct. (a) Board members, in the
performance of their duties, shall demonstrate by their example the highest standards of ethical conduct, to the end
that the public may justifiably have trust and confidence in the integrity of the neighborhood board system. Board
members shall hold their offices or positions for the benefit of the public, shall recognize that the public’s interest is
their primary concern and shall faithfully discharge the duties of their offices regardless of personal considerations.

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. A two-thirds vote (5) of this 9-member Board is needed to add an
item to the agenda. Items may not be added if they are of major importance and will affect a significant number of people.

1. Call to Order: Chair Savaiinaea
1.1 Pu / Blowing of Conch Shell: Kaukaohu Wahilani
1.2 Oli: Nani Peterson

2. Pule Wehe: Calvin Endo

3. Declaration Of Any Conflicts by Board Members: Board members to state if they hold any conflicts regarding any issue under board business, per Section 2-14-116 and Section 2-13-105 of the Neighborhood Plan, that would require disclosure or recusal.

4. City Emergency & First Responder Report: (Limited to three (3) minutes each)
4.1 Honolulu Fire Department (HFD)
i. Fire Response Search Tool-HFD website: Fire.Honolulu.gov
4.2 Honolulu Police Department (HPD)
i. Crime Stats / Crime Mapping website: HonoluluPD.org
4.3 Honolulu Ocean Safety Department
4.4 Board of Water Supply (BWS)

5. Military Official Report: (Limited to three (3) minutes each)
7.1 Army Representative- Lt. Colonel Sean Stroh

6. Presentations: (Limited to ten (10) minutes)
6.1 E-Bikes/ Dirt Bikes Makaha Valley BWS land-Kathleen Pahinui/ Ernie Lau
6.2 Honolulu Charter Commission-Layla Kilolu & Cedric Duarte

7. Community Concerns: Limited to two (2) minutes

8. Elected Officials & State Department Reports: (Limited to three (3) minutes each)
8.1 Mayor Rick Blangiardi Representative-Dawn Apuna
8.2 Council Member District 1- Andria Tupola
8.3 State Senator Samantha DeCorte, Senate District 22
8.4 State Representative Chris Muraoka, House District 45
8.5 State Representative Darius Kila, House District 44
8.6 Congresswoman Jill Tokuda District 2
8.7 Governor Green’s Representative-Diamond Badajos
8.8 Department of Hawaiian Homelands (DHHL)-Diamond Badajos

9. Board Business
9.1 Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes: Tuesday, October 7, 2025
9.2 Re-appointment of Business Economic Development Committee Chair & Vice-Chair
9.3 Board Member Attendance at Community Meetings/Public Hearings (August/ Sept/ Oct.)
9.4 Consideration for Board to participate in the Kapolei City Lights Parade Saturday, December 6, 2025
9.5 Consideration for Board to participate in the Waiʻanae Christmas Parade Saturday, December 13, 2025
9.6 Consideration for new Regular Board Meeting Procedures: Board to consider doing oli, Pu and Pledge of Allegiance at every meeting or for special occasions.

10. Committee Reports: (Limited to (3) minutes each
10.1 Education/ Health & Public Safety-Chair Calvin Endo: 2nd Tuesday November 11, 2025 at 6:30pm at Waiʻanae Assembly of God Church-84-123 Mākaha Valley Rd., Waiʻanae, HI 96792
11. Announcements
11.1 Parks & Recreation/ Ocean Safety-Chair Jo Jordan: 2nd Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 6:30pm at Waiʻanae District Park-Craft Room: 85-601 Farrington Hwy., Waiʻanae, HI
11.2 Transportation 4th Tuesday @ 6-7pm @ Waiʻanae Public Library (meeting room)
11.3 Business Economic Development 4th Tuesday at 7:30-8:30pm at Waiʻanae Public Library (meeting room)
11.4 House Representative Chris Muraoka-Townhall (Date, Time & Location TBA)
11.5 Hunting/ Archery-.BWS report (Kathleen Pahinui/ Ernie Lau) next WCNB meeting Tuesday, December 2, 2025
11.6 Next regular board meeting -Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at 6:30pm at
Waiʻanae Public Library (meeting room) 85-625 Farrington Hwy, Wai’anae, HI 96792
12. Adjournment
A mailing list is maintained for interested persons and agencies to receive Neighborhood Commission agendas and minutes. Additions, deletions, and corrections to the list may be directed to the Neighborhood Commission Office, Kapālama Hale, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817; 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, or fax 768-3705 to be added to the mailing list or visit https://www.honolulu.gov/esub/email-subscribe-nco.

If you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability or an interpreter for a language other than English, please call the Neighborhood Commission Office at (808) 768-3710 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. or send an email to nco@honolulu.gov at least three (3) business days before the scheduled meeting. It may not be possible to fulfill requests received after this date.

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, Hawaiʻi 96817. Fax: (808) 768-3711. Email: nbtestimony@honolulu.gov.

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2025 at 6:30 P.M.
WAI’ANAE PUBLIC LIBRARY (MEETING ROOM) – 85-625 FARRINGTON HWY, WAI’ANAE, HI 96792
AND VIA WEBEX TELECONFERENCING
Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06TlWzTHCbU
Reports & other meeting materials can be found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15Jr_oT5HYGh5APaB2jHRsetQtIb71X0N
I. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:04]: 6:31 p.m.
Chair Savaiinaea called the Wai’anae Coast Neighborhood Board No. 24 meeting to order at 6:31 p.m. Quorum was established with 8 members present. Note: This 9-member Board requires 5 members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.
Members Present: Cross Crabbe (virtual), Calvin Endo, Jo Jordan (virtual), Richard Landford (virtual), Dana Newman (virtual), Nani Peterson (virtual), Kaukaohu Wahilani (virtual), and Teri Savaiinaea.
Members Absent: None.
Guests: Firefighter Ah Soon (Honolulu Fire Department); Sergeant Fumi Muraoka (Honolulu Police Department); Lieutenant Blake Coppers (Ocean Safety); Kaui Hilo, Kathleen Pahinui (Board of Water Supply); Dawn Apuna (Mayor Rick Blangiardi); Kika Tapeni (Councilmember Andria Tupola); Senator Samantha DeCorte (Senate District 22); Representative Chris Muraoka (House District 45); Lieutenant Colonel Sean Stroh (Army); Kathleen Pahinui (Board of Water Supply); Kimberly Haupu (Board Nominee); George Timotele (Board Nominee); Blessing Star Dela Cruz (Resident); Kalisto (Resident); Valerie Manoa (Resident); James Coohl (Resident); Michael William Kalino Eli (Resident); Pikachu Shelby (Resident); Lena (Resident); and Jeffrey (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible.
PULE WEHE – [0:00:14]: Calvin Endo offered a prayer for the community, including a family who recently lost their home to a fire, and asked for blessings for the meeting.
II. CITY EMERGENCY & FIRST RESPONDER MONTHLY REPORT – [0:02:31]
Honolulu Fire Department – [0:02:34]: Firefighter Ah Soon provided the incident statistics for September 2025.
• September 2025 Statistics: There was 1 structure fire, 3 wildland and brush fires, 17 nuisance fires, 1 cooking fire, 1 activated alarm (no fire), 102 medical emergencies, 1 motor vehicle collision with a pedestrian, 6 motor vehicle collisions, 0 mountain rescues, 0 ocean rescues, 1 hazardous material incident.
• Safety Tip: With the holiday season approaching, consider fire-resistant, non-combustible decorations. Choose only Underwriters Laboratory approved electrical decorations and follow manufacturers’ instructions for installation and load. Use lights that are in good repair, turn off lights before leaving home or going to bed, do not overload power strips, surge protectors, and extension cords, never leave candles unattended, and secure lighters and matches out of reach from children.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KW7EFkLDrAjHT2OMksflL2RTDMDc89pi/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments and concerns followed – [0:04:03]
1. Brush Fire: Member Wahilani asked about the cause of a brush fire behind the homestead in Wai’anae Valley last month. Firefighter Ah Soon responded that investigators are still looking into it and will provide information when available.
2. House Fire: Member Endo asked about the recent house fire where a family lost everything. Firefighter Ah Soon responded that investigators are still looking into it.
3. Dryer Safety: Member Endo shared a fire safety tip about cleaning lint traps in dryers to prevent house fires.
Honolulu Police Department – [0:06:10]: Sergeant Fumi Muraoka provided the crime statistics for September 2025.
• September 2025 Statistics: There were 14 motor vehicle thefts for the district with 3 in Wai’anae; 12 burglaries for the district with 6 in Wai’anae; 103 thefts in the district with 32 in Wai’anae; 23 car break-ins for the district with 5 in Wai’anae; 31 speeding citations issued; 1,409 total citations including other moving violations and parking; 7,770 total calls for service in the district; and 2,346 calls in Wai’anae.
• Follow-up Information: 21 total homicides reported in Wai’anae between 2022 and 2025. Regarding school bus stop signs, when a school bus puts out the red stop sign, both sides of traffic must stop unless there is a clearly marked division in the middle like a median or turn lane, in which case only the side that the bus is on needs to stop.

Questions, comments and concerns followed – [0:09:00]
1. Stored Property Ordinance (SPO): Resident Austin Salcedo asked about the scheduled SPO at the Keaʻau district. Sergeant Muraoka responded that notifications would be on Thursday with cleanup on Friday of that week.
2. E-Bikes: Resident James Cowles asked if owners would get back their confiscated e-bikes from ʻEwa Beach. Sergeant Muraoka responded that they would get them back after showing proof of ownership or purchase.
3. Coffee with a Cop: Johnnie-Mae Perry thanked HPD for coming to Wai’anae McDonald’s to speak with the community.
4. Motorized Vehicles on Heiau: Member Peterson raised concerns about police officers riding quads on top of the heiau at 9:00 a.m. in the Mākaha area. Sergeant Muraoka said he would bring this up to the command in their district and have it addressed at their commander meeting.
5. Citations at Coastline: Member Peterson expressed concern about citations given to people on the coastline at 9:00 a.m. for litter control, failure to comply with signs, and storing popup tents on public property. She felt this was suppression of local people. Sergeant Muraoka responded that officers cite violations they observe regardless of race and that those cited have their day in court to defend themselves.
6. Community Relations: Resident Shelby Billionaire suggested reinforcing the relationship between HPD and the Wai’anae community through events like barbecues and acknowledged the challenges of human trafficking, drug smuggling, and other issues in the area.

Honolulu Ocean Safety Department – [0:19:21]: Lieutenant Blake Carporoz provided the ocean safety statistics for September 2025.
• September 2025 Statistics: 132,891 beach attendees during September. The busier beaches were Pokai Bay, Mā’ili, and Kalanianaʻole Beach Park. There were 15,689 preventative actions, 18,510 public contacts, 8 rescues, 0 drownings, and 14 total emergencies.
• Notable Incidents: These included a swimmer swept out at Paradise Cove, a swimmer swept out at Kahe Point who was brought in by Ocean Safety, an overdue diver who was later found by Ocean Safety, a swimmer in a rip at Mākaha, a shark at Depot’s Beach Park in Nānākuli, a heat exhaustion case involving a 52-year-old male at Kahe Point, and a 14-year-old male with a forehead laceration at Mākaha Beach.

Questions, comments and concerns followed – [0:21:10]
1. Recognition: Resident Shelby Billionaire expressed appreciation for Ocean Safety and suggested organizing a barbecue at Pokai Bay to recognize their work, noting the high number of incidents they handle.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [0:21:58]: Kaui Hilo and Kathleen Pahinui provided the report and highlighted the following: there was 1 main break on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 86-360 Ohiomaka Street (off of Halona); BWS is asking residents to reduce water usage by 20% due to lower-than-normal rainfall and higher water demand; and BWS is following up on previous issues.
• Water Conservation Tips: Turn off the tap while brushing teeth, washing hands, or shaving; shorten showers by a few minutes; use a garden hose with a nozzle; irrigate early in the morning to reduce evaporation.
• Follow-up Information: Wai’anae Valley Road falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Facility Maintenance division, and BWS has reached out to them regarding the condition of the road. After the Oahu Sugar Mill closed in the mid-1990s, much of the water was redirected to diversified agriculture, the Waipahu soccer park, and various golf courses. Older wells that were too deep and slightly brackish for drinking water are no longer in active use. BWS developed new wells to provide water services to Waipahu, Waipahu, Waikele, Kunia, ʻEwa, and Wai’anae.
• Additional Updates: The manager of the Wai’anae Valley 2 Wells will not replace the spigot that was previously propped open, as it drained the hydro-pneumatic system and could have left many people without water. BWS will be presenting about e-bikes at the November 4th Wai’anae Neighborhood Board meeting. Garen Hamasaki from the service department contacted Muriel Ioane regarding a meter for her property to help keep down brush. BWS has prepared a draft feral ungulate control plan for Mākaha Valley, which was distributed to the board for review before next month’s meeting.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y-U0Pyz_hq0JhPMmj6erWXvNvibcUfCa/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments and concerns followed – [0:27:29]
1. Water Discount: Resident Shelby Billionaire asked about a possible 10% discount for water conservation efforts.
2. Water Program: Resident Blessing Star Dela Cruz asked for an update on a program created by Ernie for lower water bill payments for kupunas and low-income families in Wai’anae. Pahinui was not aware of the program but said she would look into it.
3. Water Meter Repair: A community member thanked Kathleen for helping with a water meter repair after a truck driver broke the concrete boxes around it.
4. Feral Ungulate Control Plan: Representative Muraoka suggested holding a separate meeting about the feral ungulate control plan due to its importance to hunters in the community. Austin Kelly requested that the State Department of Law Enforcement also be included in the meeting about the ungulate control plan.
5. Water Waste: Several community members expressed concerns about water waste at homeless encampments and public showers, with Kalisto noting that the city should either maintain the undeveloped side of Keaʻau Beach Park or return it to the state.
III. FILLING OF VACANT BOARD SEAT – [0:40:30]
Chair Savaiinaea announced there was 1 At-large vacancy for the Wai’anae Neighborhood Board. Adter asking for nominations and volunteers, Member Peterson nominated resident Kimberly Haupu and resident George “Boy” Timoteo volunteered; Endo Nominated Timoteo.
[0:42:30] Chair Savaiinaea called a recess at 7:14 p.m. to verify resident’s addresses.
[0:42:38] Chair Savaiinaea called the meeting back to order at 7:19 p.m.
Nominee Introductions: Residents Kimberly Haupu and George Timoteo shared about themselves and explained why they wanted to be a part of the Neighborhood Board.
[0:46:15] A roll call vote was conducted with the following results: Haupu received 5 votes (Jordan, Crabbe, Peterson, Newman, Savaiinaea) and Timoteo received three (3) votes (Landford, Wahilani, Endo) – [0:47:20] With five votes, Kimberly Haupu was appointed to the board and will serve as a Board member for the remainder of the Board Term.
IV. DECLARATION OF ANY CONFLICTS BY BOARD MEMBERS – [0:48:46]: Board members were asked to declare any conflicts regarding board business.
• Member Landford Jr. reported that he attended the transportation meeting at Nānākuli as well as their houseless meeting.
V. PRESENTATIONS – [0:49:35]
North Shore Neighborhood Board Chair/Vice-Chair “Objection & Protest” against Waialua Gondola Development – [0:49:48]: Kathleen Pahinui, Chair of the North Shore Neighborhood Board, and Vice Chair Racquel Achiu presented their opposition to the Kaukonahua Ranch LLC’s Kamananui gondola project on the slopes of Mount Ka’ala. The developer rescinded their first modification on September 4th but submitted a second modification later in September. The North Shore Neighborhood Board is working to get the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) to revoke the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) minor for the project.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cOSgkbQfeoYx8Lr56sz52TLBFQSfo4ha/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments and concerns followed – [1:01:37]
1. Traffic Concerns: Resident James Cowles shared his experience driving down Kaukonahua Road, noting it is dangerous and not a minor road as the developer claims. He expressed concern about tour buses navigating the road daily.
2. Zoning Issues: A community member asked if the zoning was changing from agriculture to commercial. The presenters clarified that while the zoning would remain agricultural, the project would effectively change the character of the area from agricultural to commercial use.
3. Land Ownership: Resident Johnnie-Mae Perry asked about the land ownership and if the presenters had support from Kualoa Ranch. Pahinui explained that the land was purchased from Dole and sold to a Canadian developer. She noted that the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) may own some land at the top of Mount Ka’ala, and that Kualoa Ranch was not directly involved but likely would not support the project.
4. Water Concerns: Resident Michael Eli raised concerns about water resources if drilling occurs on the mountain, noting that it could affect water availability on the Wai’anae side.
5. Reforestation: Resident Valerie Manoa asked if the developer had an agroforestry specialist, noting that the project would reduce agroforestry from 933 acres to 51.5 acres, potentially affecting rainfall. Pahinui confirmed they had a specialist at one point but reduced the reforestation plans because it was “too hard.”
6. Endangered Species: Dana Newman asked if endangered species had been identified in the area. Pahinui confirmed that both endangered flora and fauna are present, and the developer was supposed to conduct studies, including on the pueo (Hawaiian owl), but they haven’t been able to find these studies.
Board Resolution – [1:20:15]: Chair Savaiinaea read the resolution asking the City & County of Honolulu to deny and revoke conditional use permits of Kaukonahua Ranch LLC’s Kamananui project on the slopes of Mount Ka’ala in the moku of Waialua.
[1:22:55] – Jordan MOVED and Wahilani SECONDED to support the resolution. Hearing no discussion, a voice vote was conducted and ADOPTED with a vote count of 9-0-0 (Aye: Haupu, Endo, Jordan, Wahilani, Crabbe, Newman, Peterson, Landford Jr., Savaiinaea; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [1:22:12]
• Resolution: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGZntwr0BnHAyzapN4BClqWA03_jfsXC/view?usp=drive_link

[1:23:38] Endo MOVED and Haupu SECONDED to take the agenda out of order, having “Officials’ Reports” before “Community Concerns.” Hearing no objections, the motion was ADOPTED.
VI. OFFICIALS’ REPORTS – [1:25:28]
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [1:25:30]: Dawn Apuna provided a follow-up on the Mākaha Valley Development issue. A civil engineering branch inspector conducted a site visit on August 26, 2025, which revealed grading work without a permit at TMK 842, parcel 51 and 75. A verbal stop work order was given to the contractor, and a written notice of violation will be issued to the owners.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [1:26:25]
1. Gondola Project: Resident Shelby Billionaire asked to deny the conditional use permit for the gondola project based on the presentation. Apuna responded that Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) has a 45-day window to process the request, will consider public input including the board’s resolution, and will render a decision by mid-November.
2. Permit Requirements: Resident Johnnie-Mae Perry asked about permit requirements for kitchen and bathroom remodels. Apuna explained that permits are required if moving electrical and plumbing, but not for simple cabinet replacements.
3. Property Zoning: Resident Gary Shinsato asked about P1 preservation restricted zoning and whether it could be changed to agricultural or P2 zoning, and if subdividing would affect the zoning. Apuna explained that P1 might allow some agricultural uses, but rezoning would be needed for other purposes, and she offered to look at his specific property.
4. SPO Enforcement: Resident Austin Saledo requested that other entities besides HPD be present at the upcoming SPO at Keaʻau Beach Park, including the Humane Society, and asked for measures to address water misuse and vandalism in the area.
5. Park Maintenance: Resident Kalei Salcedo suggested that if the city cannot maintain the undeveloped part of Keaʻau Beach Park, it should be returned to the state to address safety concerns related to drug use and trash.
6. Traditional Practices: Member Newman asked about the definition of camping and the city’s responsibility to allow traditional practices by Native Hawaiian beneficiaries in public spaces. Apuna said she would take the question back to the city departments involved.
Council Member District 1 – Andria Tupola – [1:36:05]: Kika Tapeni reported on three ordinances that passed in committee: a CORE audit ordinance to audit the CORE department’s funding; Resolution 2522 urging the police commission to improve the selection process for the police chief; and Bill 62 changing registration fees for veterans 65 and older.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [1:37:24]
1. RYSE Appeal: Resident Austin Salcedo expressed frustration about the lack of response to a Tuesday, June 3, 2025, letter regarding RYSE’s status under the governor’s emergency proclamation. He stated that the proclamation was not done appropriately by the state and that he would be reaching out to state legislators for assistance.
2. Foundation Concerns: Resident Shelby Billionaire raised concerns about the Tupola Foundation and Empower Hawaii, suggesting potential conflicts of interest. He also shared information about $15,000 in funding available from Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) for Lahui events with 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.
3. Board Procedures: Resident Johnnie-Mae Perry congratulated Kimberly Haupu on joining the board and expressed concern about a presentation from Kathleen Pahinui being “intercepted,” emphasizing that the neighborhood board should focus on city issues.
4. Incomplete Resolutions: Resident Kalei Salcedo asked when Councilmember Tupola would complete resolutions that were incomplete, stating that the 96792 area from Kahe Point to Kaʻena Point needs to be heard.
5. Illegal Vehicles: Resident Johnnie-Mae Perry requested a resolution to remove illegal vehicles parked on public streets and thanked the councilmember.
Governor Green’s Representative – [1:44:39]: No representative present.
State Senator Samantha DeCorte, Senate District 22 – [1:44:50]: Senator DeCorte provided updates on emergency sirens, noting that two of three inoperable sirens have been repaired: one across from Princess Kahanu and one at Mākua. The siren in front of Leihōkū will be repaired the following Monday. She reminded everyone that Hakimo Road is now open, providing traffic relief. She also announced that on Thursday, November 27th, residents at Pu’uhonua will be moving from the boat harbor up to Mākaha, with cleanup efforts already starting at the boat harbor.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [1:46:53]
1. Hostage Situation: Resident Shelby Billionaire asked about efforts to rescue Jasmine Eketta, a Hawaii-born hostage held in Israel. Senator DeCorte stated that they want all hostages released and shared that her recent trip to Israel was productive, noting Israel’s leadership in agricultural innovations like drip irrigation and desalinization that could benefit Wai’anae.
2. RYSE Project: Resident Austin Salcedo raised concerns about the RYSE project on Noholio Road, stating that the governor’s emergency proclamation was not properly implemented. Senator DeCorte affirmed her opposition to the RYSE building in a residential area without community input and offered to put her position in writing.
3. SNAP Benefits: Resident Austin Salcedo asked about the impact of SNAP, Medicaid, and Medicare cutbacks on the 96792 area. Senator DeCorte explained that SNAP benefits would be reduced by approximately $11 per month for individuals and $34 per month for families.
4. Department of Education Land Acquisition: Member Newman questioned plans for the Department of Education to acquire parcels at the boat harbor, expressing concern about taking land away from the Hawaiian community. Senator DeCorte explained that DOE acquisition would prevent trespassing and allow for educational programs like aquaponics and forestry, while also restoring areas that have been occupied for decades.
5. Boat Harbor Transition: Resident Kalei Salcedo asked about the timeline for the property transition and whether the Department of Law Enforcement would be involved. Senator DeCorte confirmed that both the Department of Law Enforcement and DOCARE are involved, but said it would take time after the residents move before they can determine next steps.
6. Access Road: Resident James Cowles thanked the senator for helping open the access road, which had been in development for many years, and expressed hope that speed limits would be monitored.
State Representative Chris Muraoka, House District 45 – [2:01:47]: Representative Muraoka noted positive community engagement with increased meeting attendance. He acknowledged Senator DeCorte’s work on getting the Haima sirens fixed. He reported progress on firebreaks, with the Department of Hawaiian Homelands (DHHL) finding a contractor for areas behind Leihōkū Elementary and homes. He clarified that the owners of the Mākaha Golf Course do not own the land bordering the elementary school; it belongs to MMM88 LLC, whose representative is working on clearing the area. He mentioned ongoing work on the Ulu Wehi deal and an upcoming joint Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) meeting. He is working with DLNR on identifying an area where iwi (bones) were found. He attended a Kupuna Council meeting and shared his mission to improve Wai’anae through collaboration without concern for who gets credit.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [2:05:45]
1. Homeless Youth: Resident Steph Osato expressed concern about homeless children in Wai’anae, noting that without support, they might join gangs. She asked about solutions if the RYSE project on Noholio Road doesn’t proceed.
2. RYSE Location: Representative Muraoka clarified that he supports RYSE’s mission but not its location on Noholio Road due to concerns about the elderly population, lack of sidewalks, and lighting. He added that RYSE cannot guarantee services exclusively for Wai’anae residents due to federal funding requirements.
3. Community Benefits Package: Representative Muraoka mentioned he recently learned about a Community Benefits Package from the dump that has disappeared and is looking into reviving it, noting that Wai’anae bears the burden of the island’s waste.
4. School Facilities: Resident Johnnie-Mae Perry reported that Wai’anae Elementary School’s air conditioning is failing despite the state spending $120 million on school AC systems. Representative Muraoka found this concerning and questioned where the money went.
5. RYSE Approach: Resident Kalei Salcedo criticized RYSE’s approach to the community, stating they divided residents rather than working with them respectfully. He mentioned disrespect shown to a kupuna who opened her home for meetings and questioned the federal grant process.
6. School Improvements: Member Endo requested help with creating a safer drop-off area at Wai’anae Elementary School and additional parking space, possibly using adjacent DHHL land. Representative Muraoka offered to help and suggested the principal contact him directly.
VII. COMMUNITY CONCERNS – [2:17:33]
Future Department of Education (DOE) Presentation – [2:17:39]: A resident who oversees the Department of Education’s Homeless Concerns Liaison’s team explained how the team gets their demographic information. She offered to present at a future Board Meeting.
Helping the Community – [2:19:30]: Resident Shelby Billionaire asked how the Board intends to help the Native Hawaiian community rise up.
Thanking Individuals and Board Issue – [2:21:16]: Resident Johnnie-Mae Perry thanked many individuals at the meeting and shared City issues should remain in the Board’s hands and not transition to the State side.
RYSE Concern – [2:22:12]: Resident Blessing Star De La Cruz shared the troubles she faced when she learned her son was a part of the RYSE program.
No Solution to Ongoing Problem – [2:24:21]: Resident Kalei Salcedo shared her frustrations with receiving no answers to ongoing problems shared at Neighborhood Board meetings.
Canal Cleaning – [2:27:11]: Resident Lena Suzuki asked if residents could begin receiving updates when canals are cleaned so residents can be aware if anything harmful was found (drug paraphernalia, petroleum, etc.).
Member Jordan left the meeting at 8:30 p.m.; 8 members present.
VIII. MILITARY OFFICIAL REPORT – [2:30:02]
Army Representative – [2:30:04]: Lieutenant Colonel Sean Stroh provided updates on three questions from previous meetings:
1. Land Ownership: The Army owns about 170 acres in Mākua Military Reservation (MMR) that will not be returned in 2029 as part of the formal land swap plan, though a land transfer remains possible.
2. Cultural Artifacts: The US Army Garrison Hawaii differentiates collections based on location and applicable federal law. Only artifacts subject to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act can be repatriated, and the Army currently has none from MMR. The State Department of Land and Natural Resources has about a dozen artifacts collected from state-owned land at Mākua that will be returned in 2029.
3. Water Line Use: The Army will not use the existing Board of Water Supply water line to Makua Military Reservation to supplement agricultural needs of private or nonprofit entities, based on a historical declination letter from BWS in February 2023. Interested parties should direct requests to BWS.
Questions, comments and concerns followed – [2:33:09]
1. Community Event: Resident Shelby Billionaire suggested a community event in partnership with MWR and the Army between April and June next year, potentially funded by OHA for $15,000, to build unity in the community.
2. Military Treatment: Resident Johnnie-Mae Perru expressed disappointment about how the military is being treated, referencing an article about high-ranking military officers being ridiculed by a television personality. She thanked the Lieutenant Colonel for his service.
IX. BOARD BUSINESS – [2:34:50]
Approval of Board Meeting Minutes – [2:34:53]: Chair Savaiinaea entertained a motion to approve the minutes for Tuesday, July 1, 2025, and Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
[2:34:59] – Endo MOVED and Haupu SECONDED to adopt the minutes for Tuesday, July 1, 2025, and Tuesday, September 2, 2025. Hearing no discussion, a voice vote was conducted and ADOPTED with a vote count of 8-0-0 (Aye: Endo, Haupu, Newman, Crabbe, Wahilani, Landford Jr., Peterson, Savaiinaea; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [2:35:30]
[2:35:32] – Chair Savaiinaea announced that agenda items B (Consideration for new Regular Board Meeting Procedures), C (Consideration for Board to Participate in Wai’anae Christmas Parade), and D (Board Member Attendance at Community Meetings/Public Hearings) would be deferred to next month.
X. COMMITTEE REPORTS – [2:35:41]
Transportation – [2:35:44]: No report given.
Hawaiian Affairs – [2:35:53]: Member Wahilani reported that he and Member Newman are still working on finding a day and time for the meeting, considering morning options instead of evening. Member Newman noted difficulties in securing meeting spaces, but Chair Savaiinaea confirmed that paperwork has been submitted and they are waiting for approval.
Parks & Recreation/Ocean Safety – [2:36:41]: Chair Savaiinaea reported that Jordan held her committee meeting with good attendance and productive discussions. There will be no meeting this month as Jordan is traveling, but the regular meeting will resume in November.
Housing/Homelessness – [2:37:11]: Member Peterson reported that the meeting was held on September 5th at Ina behind HCAP with a potluck provided by Uncle Abe. The next meeting will be Friday, October 17th at 6:00 p.m. in the same location, with another potluck planned. At the last meeting, Charles Hulen presented on a development behind Number One area, but Peterson has not received updates on whether they plan to move forward.
Education/Health & Public Safety – [2:38:38]: Endo reported that the next meeting will be Tuesday, October 14th at 6:30 p.m. at Wai’anae Assembly of God Church behind 7-Eleven on Mākaha Valley Road. Issues being addressed include school traffic safety, particularly for elementary schools, and homeless camps, with concerns about infectious disease in the soil after encampments are cleared.
Business Economic Development – [2:40:08]: Newman reported that he is working on the agenda and location, which will be determined within the next week.
Natural Resources: Water, Land – [2:40:25]: Newman noted challenges in finding meeting spaces, with the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) helping to secure locations. The Satellite City Hall cannot be used due to bathroom and plumbing issues.
XI. ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:41:05]
1. Representative Chris Muraoka and Representative Darius Kila will hold a town hall on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Kamaile Academy from 7:00-9:00 p.m. (85-180 Ala Akau St., Wai’anae, HI 96792).
2. The next Education/Health & Public Safety Committee meeting (Chair Calvin Endo) will be Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Wai’anae Assembly of God Church (84-123 Mākaha Valley Rd., Wai’anae, HI 96792).
3. The next Housing/Homelessness Committee meeting (Chair Nani Peterson) will be October 17, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. behind HCAP.
4. The next regular board meeting will be Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at Wai’anae Public Library (meeting room) 85-625 Farrington Hwy, Wai’anae, HI 96792.
XII. ADJOURNMENT – [2:41:53]: The meeting was adjourned at 9:19 p.m.
Submitted by: Jeffrey Jones, Neighborhood Assistant, Neighborhood Commission Office
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, Neighborhood Commission Office
Finalized by:

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.