MILILANI – WAIPI‘O – MELEMANU NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 25

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2026 at 7:00 P.M.
MILILANI HIGH SCHOOL – H BUILDING
95-1200 MEHEULA PARKWAY, MILILANI, HI 96789
AND VIRTUAL VIA WEBEX

Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=m369359c4e541c9a75488c5659a6601ad
Meeting Number / Access Code: 2482 424 7186
Passcode: NB25 (6225 from phones and video systems)
Join by Phone: +1-408-418-9388 United States Toll

Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1kK0RlwlrULOHw3HFRCLnoiy8MZLoYk8D?usp=drive_link
Board Meeting Recordings: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice

Rules for Virtual Participation and Speaking: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to raise their hand, and when recognized by the Chair, to address comments to the Chair. Speakers are encouraged to keep their comments under three (3) minutes, and those giving reports are urged to keep their reports to less than three (3) minutes. Please silence all electronic devices.

Written Testimony: 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, 530 South King Street, Room 406, Honolulu, HI 96813. Fax: (808) 768-3711. Email: nbtestimony@honolulu.gov

I. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Danielle M. M. Bass
A. Pledge of Allegiance, Public Notice, Roll Call/Quorum

II. MONTHLY REPORTS (Limited to three (3) minutes each)
A. Honolulu Fire Department
(Monthly report; fire and emergency incident statistics for this community’s jurisdiction for Mar – Apr 2026, HFD safety tips reminders, and upcoming events)
B. Honolulu Police Department
(Monthly report; crime and incident statistics for this community’s jurisdiction for Mar – Apr 2026, HPD safety tips, reminders, and upcoming events)
C. U.S. Army – Combat Aviation Brigade, 25th Infantry Division
(Monthly report; updates on previous and current questions / concerns, safety tips, reminders, and upcoming events)
D. Board of Water Supply (BWS)
(Monthly report; water main break incidents and statistics for this community’s jurisdiction for Mar – Apr 2026; BWS tips, reminders, and upcoming events)
E. State of Hawaiʻi School Facilities Authority (HiSFA)
(Monthly report and status update of Mililani High School Workforce Housing project; updates on previous and current questions / concerns, reminders, and upcoming events)

III. PRESENTATIONS (Limited to ten (10) minutes each)
A. Status Update on Central Oahu Regional Park Temporary Debris Storage Site from Recent Kona Low Storms – Dr. Roger Babcok; Director, Honolulu Department of Environmental Services
B. Overview of Red Hill Registry – Tara Sutton; Director of Community Engagement, Red Hill Registry: http://redhillregistry.org/

IV. COMMUNITY CONCERNS (Limited to three (3) minutes each)
A. Report Of Any Events or Concerns Within the Community
Any community member can come forward and express any comment or concern within decorum.
Please, limit your comments to three (3) minutes each per issue for items not on the agenda.

V. BOARD BUSINESS:
A. Board Member Dennis Kim – 3 Meeting Absence

VI. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES: Wednesday, March 25, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes

VII. REPORTS OF CHAIRS AND BOARD COMMITTEES (Limited to three (3) minutes each)
A. Chair’s Report
B. Community Partnerships and Community Outreach – Kate Ozawa, Chair
C. Community Recognition and Service Awards – Josie Ka‘anehe, Chair
D. Community Maintenance and Walk Audit – Ken Inouye & Skyler Ross, Co- Chairs
1. Neighborhood Board Walk Form: https://forms.gle/3YeivtfDyT6VaAi1A
E. Planning, Zoning, Sustainable Development, and Climate Resilience – Trevor Nagamine, Chair
F. Transportation & OMPO – Ed Flores, Chair
G. Military Affairs and Emergency Management – Dennis Kim, Chair
H. Health, Houselessness, and Human Services – Darsha Lee, Chair
I. Parks and Recreation – Sabrina Gustafson, Chair
1. Mililani Town Dog-Friendly Park Survey: https://forms.gle/46eRL1k99Aff5TC19
(a) Maka‘unulau Community Park (“16 Acres”),
(b) Kama‘i‘o Community Park, and
(c) Hōlaniali‘i Neighborhood Park
J. Education – Marilyn Lee, Chair

VIII. ELECTED OFFICIALS REPORTS (Limited to three (3) minutes each)
A. Office of Hawai‘i’s 1st Congressional District, Congressman Ed Case – Nestor Garcia
B. Office of Hawai‘i State Governor Josh Green – Toni Schwartz, Governor’s Representative
C. Office of the City & County of Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi– Jocelyn Doane, Mayor’s Representative
D. Office of the City & County of Honolulu Council District 8, Councilmember Val Okimoto
E. Office of the City & County of Honolulu Council District 2, Councilmember Matthew Weyer
F. Office of State Senate District 18, Senator Michelle Kidani
G. Office of State Senate District 17, Senator Donovan Dela Cruz
H. Office of State House District 38, Representative Lauren Matsumoto
I. Office of State House District 37, Representative Trish La Chica
J. Office of State House District 46, Representative Amy Perruso

IX. ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. Next Board Meeting: The next scheduled board meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 7:00 pm. Location: Mililani High School – H Building.
B. Broadcast: Videotaping of Board meetings are scheduled to be shown on ‘Ōlelo Focus 49, Every Second Thursday at 9:00 a.m., and on ‘Ōlelo Views 54, Every First and Third Saturday at 9:00 a.m.
C. Hawaiʻi Foodbank Food Drive: City and County of Honolulu and Hawaiʻi Foodbank are Partnering up to Fight Against Hunger: Neighborhood Assistant Rachel Cristobal is collecting donated canned goods at the April 2026 Neighborhood Board Meeting.

X. ADJOURNMENT

A mailing list is maintained for interested persons and agencies to receive this board’s agenda and minutes. Additions, corrections, and deletions to the mailing list may be directed to the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) at Kapālama Hale, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160 Honolulu, Hawaiʻi 96817; Telephone (808) 768-3710 Fax (808) 768-3711; or call Neighborhood Assistant Rachel Cristobal at (808) 768-3708 or e-mail nco@honolulu.gov . Agendas and minutes are also available on the internet at www.honolulu.gov/nco.

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.

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 that 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
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2026 – 7:00 P.M.
MILILANI HIGH SCHOOL – H BUILDING
95-1200 MEHEULA PKWY, MILILANI, HI 96789 AND VIA WEBEX

Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufKaITtywCU

Reports & other meeting materials can be found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1kK0RlwlrULOHw3HFRCLnoiy8MZLoYk8D?usp=drive_link

I. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:01]
Chair Danielle Bass called the Mililani/Waipiʻo/Melemanu Neighborhood Board No. 25 meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The Board recited the Pledge of Allegiance followed by Chair Bass reciting the rules of speaking – [1:00]. Chair Bass announced that the State of Hawai’i was still under an emergency proclamation, so there will be a presentation on the Kona Low Emergency Response and Recovery presented by the Governor’s Representative – [0:02:14]. Roll call was conducted by Neighborhood Assistant Rachel Cristobal. Quorum WAS established with 19 members present – [0:04:42]. Note: This 23-member Board requires 12 members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action.

Members Present: Danielle Bass, Elise Carmody, Ann Freed, Sabrina Gustafson, Josie Kaʻanehe, Brandon Kinard, Marilyn Lee, Katherine Ozawa, Rodney Park, Skyler Ross, Martina Segura, Mary Smart, Emil Svrcina, Kurumi Kaapana-aki, Trevor Nagamine, Rudy Rana, Sharon Williams, Katherine Kupukaʻa, Ken Inouye, and Darsha Lee (joined at 7:14 p.m.).

Members Absent: Alexander Ozawa, Dennis Kim & Ed Flores.

Guests: Lieutenant Baysa (Honolulu Police Department); Captain Katie Kolb (U.S. Army); Kathleen Pahinui (Board of Water Supply); Ken Aramaki, Christy Tomas, Colton Ching, Kanani Imai (Hawaiian Electric); Toni Schwartz (Governor Green’s Office); Dita Holifield, Roger Babcock (Mayor Blangiardi’s Office); Pua Smith-Kauhane (Councilmember Okimoto’s Office); Kelly Anaya (Councilmember Weyer’s Office); Diego Ortiz (Senator Dela Cruz’s Office); Amanda Neuman (Representative Matsumoto’s Office); Tiara Tenorio (Representative La Chica’s Office); Representative Amy Perruso; Jocylen Roberts, Ken MacDowell, Keoni, Michelle C., Mike Dau, Walton Auyong, Bredan Dixon (Residents & Guests); Rachel Cristobal (Neighborhood Commission Office). There were approximately 44 total attendees.

II. MONTHLY REPORTS – [0:04:50]

Honolulu Fire Department – [0:04:50]: No representative present.
● Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1O6rJ0Ywy9g_i6cqb640nFCWOIoXPoUPs/view?usp=drive_link

Honolulu Police Department – [0:05:02]: Lieutenant Baysa reported the following:
● Monthly Statistics: From February 23 – March 23, 2026, there were zero assaults, two burglaries, zero robberies, 11 car break-ins, 761 calls for service.
● Upcoming Event: District 2 Coffee with a Cop – Friday, April 17, 2026, at Mililani Town Center Starbucks, 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [0:06:51]
1. Unauthorized Entries into a Motor Vehicle (UEMV) – Pattern and Arrest Inquiry: Member Ka’anehe asked whether any of the UMV entries occurred in a concentrated cluster or row of vehicles. Lieutenant Baysa believes that they appeared to be random and unrelated. Member Ka’anehe followed up asking whether a woman arrested earlier in the month was connected to one or multiple UMV cases. Lieutenant Baysa was unable to confirm the details.
2. Speeding on Mahinahou Street: Member Ross relayed a resident request for increased police efforts due to speeding near the district park and nearby elementary school on Mahinahou Street. Lieutenant Baysa agreed to notify day and night officers to monitor the area.
3. Parking Near School Crosswalks: Member Marilyn Lee reported persistent illegal parking in crosswalks and no-parking zones on Lehiwa Drive near a school. Lieutenant Baysa acknowledged that it was also a problem in the past, so HPD had worked with the school to send out messages to the parents. It helped to make the situation better.
4. Red Light Camera at Meheula Parkway/Kuahelani Avenue: Member Kupukaʻa asked about installing a red-light camera due to multiple close-call incidents at Meheula Parkway/Kuahelani Avenue. Lieutenant Baysa noted red light cameras fall under the Department of Transportation’s jurisdiction, requiring feasibility studies.

U.S. Army – Combat Aviation Brigade, 25th Infantry Division – [0:10:22]: Captain Katie Kolb reported that the U.S. Army Garrison Hawaiʻi will hold a hiring fair on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the Aliamanu Military Reservation gym from 8:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m., open to the public. The March 2026 Training Advisory includes ranger/jungle tactics, daytime aviation training, and artillery/mortar/demolitions at Schofield Barracks Saturday, March 28 – Saturday, April 4, 2026. Prescribed burns are scheduled Monday, April 13 – Sunday, 19, 2026, weather permitting, daytime only. The Concert on the Lawn is Thursday, March 26, 2026 at Palm Circle, Fort Shafter, 6:00–8:00 p.m.; DOD (Department of Defense) ID required. RFI (Request for Information) follow-ups: burn dates confirmed; homeless encampment referred to Department of Emergency Services with Military Police patrols ongoing; five calls received during the January 2026 Kona low noise period.

Member Darsha Lee joined at 7:14 p.m.; 20 members present.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [0:16:49]
1. Expired Out-of-State Plates on Military Vehicles: Member Kaʻanehe raised a recurring concern about military personnel driving with expired out-of-state plates beyond the 30-day allowance. Captain Kolb agreed to follow up.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [0:19:10]: Kathleen Pahinui reported that there were no water main breaks to report. She also announced that Detect-A-Leak Week is from Saturday, April 11 – Saturday, April 18, 2026 and BWS will be at Mililani Town Center on Saturday, April 11, 2026, where free dye tablets and rebate information will be available. Additionally, the Boil Water Advisory for Waialua and Haleʻiwa has been lifted as of this meeting. Finally, Kathleen noted that the Water Quality Report is available online at the BWS homepage and it is published twice yearly in accordance with federal law.
● Board of Water Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yq1H10fzIk327w42n1a_yhLzq2jvFuYh/view?usp=drive_link
● Detect-A-Leak Week: https://drive.google.com/file/d/17xcbKfOE8OFGOPC9PxC7vfvlDcO78H2F/view?usp=drive_link

State of Hawaiʻi School Facilities Authority (HiSFA) – [0:21:42]: Chair Bass announced that Cheri Nakamura was unable to attend. She will return for the April 2026 meeting.

III. COMMUNITY CONCERNS – [0:22:00]: There were no community concerns raised.

IV. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES – [0:22:31]
Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes – [0:22:31]: Member Gustafson MOVED and Member Smart SECONDED to approve the Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes as distributed – [0:22:37]. No amendments proposed. The motion was ADOPTED; 20-0-0. (Aye: Bass, Carmody, Freed, Gustafson, Kaʻanehe, Kinard, Marilyn Lee, Katherine Ozawa, Park, Ross, Segura, Smart, Svrcina, Kaʻapana-aki, Nagamine, Rana, Williams, Kupukaʻa, Inouye, Darsha Lee. Nay: None. Abstain: None.) – [0:23:00]

V. PRESENTATIONS – [0:23:14]
Hawaiian Electric Presentation on Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) Initiative – [0:23:32]: Ken Aramaki and Colton Ching presented on Hawaiian Electric’s REZ Initiative. Per a State and PUC (Public Utilities Commission) mandate, Hawaiian Electric must identify two Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) by June 2026 to support Hawaiʻi’s 100% clean energy goal by 2045. The initiative proactively plans shared grid infrastructure for co-located renewable projects. Eight zones were initially mapped island-wide, with four currently prioritized, including one in the Mililani/Central Oʻahu area. Hawaiian Electric is currently at 37% renewable energy, with targets of 40% by 2030, 70% by 2040, and 100% by 2045. A public meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 6, 2026, at Leeward Community College from 6:00–8:30 p.m., and comments are accepted via the REZ interactive map on the Hawaiian Electric website.
● Renewable Energy Zones Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jFlrmiW0NsDhaf5rh3OfVcoEn-XoCFDD/view?usp=drive_link
● Renewable Energy Zones Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CWHhmEjdB3oOkqahA3XXdqp9zn355Eq2/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [0:30:39]
1. LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) as Reliable Energy: Member Smart asked about LNG. Colton Ching responded that the State is evaluating LNG as a lower-emission fuel option; Hawaiian Electric is open to it if State policy supports it and economics benefit customers.
2. Current Renewable Energy Percentage and REZ Goals: Member Gustafson asked about Hawaiian Electric’s current renewable energy percentage and targets. Colton confirmed that Hawaiian Electric is currently at 37% renewable, with milestones of 40% by 2030, 70% by 2040, and 100% by 2045 under the State’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) law, noting the 2045 goal applies to the entire State economy — not just electricity.
3. 2045 Fossil Fuel Elimination: Member Kupukaʻa asked if by 2045 that fossil fuel would be fully eliminated. Ken stated that was correct, but there will still be other sources of renewable non-carbon emitting or on a net basis non-carboning emitting that can be used.
4. Skyline Rail Power Usage: Member Kupukaʻa asked how much electricity the rail currently uses and its impact on monthly bills. Colton noted current usage is approximately 5 megawatts, with an estimated 30 megawatts at full build-out (2030+) — relatively small compared to O’ahu’s peak demand of approximately 1,100 megawatts. The rail is billed as a standard Hawaiian Electric customer.
5. REZ Technology, Battery Storage & North Shore Infrastructure: Member Ross asked whether the REZ analysis is limited to solar or includes all energy technologies and whether battery storage can cover evening peak hours. Ken clarified that the REZ infrastructure is technology-agnostic, with solar used as a baseline, and that all recent solar plants include 4-hour batteries to serve evening peaks. Member Ross further questioned why Hawaiian Electric is not focusing solely on the North Shore (Group 8), which has the highest generation potential at approximately 1,160 megawatts. The response provided explained that adding resources north of Wahiawā requires significant time and infrastructure investment, making it less feasible for near-term prioritization, and that all zones will ultimately be needed to meet the State’s renewable energy goals.
6. REZ Plan Feasibility & Global Comparisons: Member Ka’apana-Aki asked how realistic the REZ plan is and whether there are comparable success stories elsewhere in the world. Ken responded that the REZ process is an industry-wide initiative being pursued across the U.S. and that Australia, which shares similarities with Hawaiʻi as a large island with abundant solar resources, has had success implementing a similar approach.
7. State Mandate Clarification: Chair Bass requested clarification on whether the REZ initiative and the 100% renewable energy goal by 2045 are the Stateʻs mandates directed by the Public Utilities Commission rather than Hawaiian Electric’s own initiative. Both points were confirmed, and Chair Bass reminded the Board and public that these are obligations the utility is fulfilling on behalf of the State.
8. Nuclear Energy: Member Svrcina asked about floating nuclear reactors. The response noted State law currently prohibits nuclear; a State working group evaluated the option and published a draft report.
9. Life Cycle & Decommissioning: Member Smart asked about solar/wind end-of-life disposal. It was confirmed independent power producer contracts require full decommissioning and site restoration with reserved funds.
10. Infrastructure Gap & REZ Selection: Member Gustafson questioned why Hawaiian Electric is designating REZ without existing infrastructure, suggesting it should be built where solar and wind farms don’t yet exist. Ken clarified that as existing infrastructure reaches capacity, new resources will need to be added further away, and the REZ initiative proactively plans shared infrastructure for co-located projects. Developers must commit to building in designated zones before infrastructure construction begins.
11. Rolling Blackouts & Grid Reliability: Member Ka’apana-Aki asked whether building infrastructure without reaching full capacity could worsen rolling blackouts as Hawaiian Electric approaches 100% renewable. Ken confirmed that ensuring reliable power supply is their core responsibility and that they do not intend to have reliability issues in the future.
12. Rooftop Solar, Battery Systems & Federal Tax Credits: Member Ross asked whether maximizing rooftop solar and batteries across all O’ahu homes and businesses could reduce the need for large-scale grid infrastructure. Colton confirmed they modeled this scenario and found it still would not produce sufficient electricity island-wide — a combination of distributed and grid-scale resources is required. Federal tax credits for leased systems remain available through the end of 2026.
13. H Power Output & Storm Debris: Chair Bass asked about H Power’s current output and whether storm debris would boost production. Colton noted H Power typically produces 40–60 megawatts. Director Babcock from the Department of Environmental Services clarified that most storm debris will not be burned — at least half will be recycled.
14. Mahi Solar & Kunia Solar Development: Chair Bass noted the Board’s long history of supporting solar development in Kunia and asked about Mahi Solar’s status. Hawaiian Electric confirmed Mahi Solar was selected through the RFP process and its contract is currently before the PUC for approval.
15. Total Renewable Energy Capacity Needed for O’ahu: Chair Bass asked what total renewable generation capacity O’ahu needs to meet its goals. In the response provided, it explained that O’ahu consumes approximately 7,000 gigawatt hours annually and will need 3,000–5,000 megawatts or more of solar and wind capacity — supplemented by modern conventional plants burning biofuels during the transition period.
16. Intermittent Resources & Need for Excess Capacity: Member Nagamine summarized that the difficulty in providing a “magic number” stems from the need to account for energy storage and fluctuations from intermittent resources. Colton confirmed this, noting that battery storage has significantly improved their ability to capture excess renewable energy, making solar-plus-battery systems more cost-effective for customers.

Kona Low Emergency Response & Recovery – Toni Schwartz, Governor’s Rep. – [1:25:13]: Toni Schwartz provided an update on the Kona Low emergency response and recovery, noting her information was more current than her slide presentation. Governor Green formally requested a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration with total estimated damages exceeding $1 billion, and the emergency proclamation has been extended through Monday, April 13, 2026. The boil water advisory for Waialua and Haleʻiwa has been lifted, and the Department of Environmental Services began the emergency curbside debris collection on Monday, March 23, 2026. Volunteer and donation opportunities are available through the American Red Cross, Hawaii Food Bank, and 808 Cleanups, with the Waialua Sugar Mill serving as the primary distribution point. North Shore schools are expected to reopen Friday, March 27, 2026 pending final safety clearances.
● Presentation: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1lbXdSWsY1QQ48NB6YZ1KnHMF8qVs8SDk/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=101205618811575423434&rtpof=true&sd=true

VI. REPORTS OF CHAIRS AND BOARD COMMITTEES – [1:34:17]
Chair’s Report – [1:34:25]: Chair Bass reported coordinating a Mililani community donation drive on Friday, April 3, 2026 (State holiday), 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. at Mililani High School’s lower campus gym, which included the Mililani – Waipiʻo – Melemanu Neighborhood Board, Mililani Mauka Neighborhood Board, Mililani High School, and Mililani Lions Club. Donations will be delivered to the North Shore. Volunteers needed for two shifts (8:30–10:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.). No monetary donations accepted.

Community Partnerships & Outreach – Kate Ozawa – [1:39:09]: Member Kate Ozawa shared the donation drive flyer and dog park survey on the Board’s social media.

Community Recognition & Service Awards – Josie Kaʻanehe – [1:39:35]: No report.

Community Maintenance & Walk Audit – Ken Inouye & Skyler Ross – [1:39:40]: No report.

Planning, Zoning, Sustainable Development & Climate Resilience – Trevor Nagamine – [1:39:50]: No report.

Transportation & OMPO – Ed Flores – [1:40:00]: No representative present.

Military Affairs & Emergency Management – Dennis Kim – [1:40:02]: No representative present.

Health, Houselessness & Human Services – Darsha Lee – [1:40:10]: Member Darsha Lee will await upcoming point-in-time count data before introducing a resolution. Community assistance hub opens Thursday, March 26, 2026 at Waialua District Park (permitting help, cleanup support, and resources).
● Community Assistance Center – Waialua District Park: https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/city-to-open-community-assistance-center-for-north-shore-residents-impacted-by-flooding/

Parks & Recreation – Sabrina Gustafson – [1:41:35]: Member Gustafson announced that there is a dog-friendly park survey to determine which of the three parks to designate next: Makaʻunulau Community Park (“16 Acres”), Kamaʻiʻo Neighborhood Park, and Hōlanialiʻī Neighborhood Park. Survey open through Tuesday, April 21, 2026; results presented Wednesday, April 22, 2026.
● Survey: https://forms.gle/46eRL1k99Aff5TC19

Education – Marilyn Lee – [1:43:23]: Mililani Middle School sustained no major structural damage from the storm but has ongoing roof leaks in Buildings A, E, F, and G. Member Marilyn Lee reported that Mililani Middle School will host 40 students from its Japan sister school on Friday, March 27, 2026 and will hold its annual S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Night that evening from 5:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. She raised a safety concern about vehicles parking too close to crosswalks on Kuaoa Street, nearly striking students, and suggested installing permanent parking cones similar to those at Mililani Mauka Elementary; HPD agreed to follow up. Mililani Uka Elementary reported only minor storm damage with two fallen trees and no injuries.

VII. ELECTED OFFICIALS’ REPORTS – [1:47:04]
Office of Hawai‘i’s 1st Congressional District, Congressman Ed Case – [1:47:05]: No representative present.

Office of Hawai‘i State Governor Josh Green – [1:47:20]: Toni Schwartz provided follow-up responses on the H-2 bus-only U-turn near Pearl Highlands, speed bumps at Kipapa Elementary, the lighted crosswalk at Meheula Parkway/Hikikaulia Street, Kipapa Bridge rock slides, and the exposed rebar on H-2.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [1:51:30]
1. Capital Improvement Inquiries – Kamehameha Highway, Mililani to Pearl City, and H-2 Rebar: Member Ka’anehe asked Toni to look into two capital improvement items: barriers and signage along Kamehameha Highway at Kipapa Gulch, and a reported $40,000 allocation for a project along the Mililani to Pearl City. Member Ka’anehe also noted that the exposed rebar on H-2 has been a recurring issue in the same spot for years, to which Toni Schwartz confirmed she would follow up.

Office of Mayor Rick Blangiardi – [1:53:21]: Dita Holifield reported on the newly launched HNL 311 system, available via app or HNL311.com, and highlighted key updates from the Mayor’s March 2026 newsletter, including the release of the 2026 town hall schedule, the annual food drive, and a community input opportunity for the selection of the next HPD chief of police.
● Department of Environmental Services (ENV) – FAQ: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wugsQl18nOcnbU3ept5V3XiSwDZ6Zp_W/view?usp=drive_link
● Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1biS0VLmN8BsrM3f6MftzaEjjmRLDxTHt/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [1:56:34]
1. Ground Barriers & Environmental Safety: Member Gustafson expressed concern that no ground barriers were placed before debris was deposited, citing risks of microbial contamination leaching into the ground. Director Babcock confirmed no barriers were placed due to the emergency timeline and that baseline soil samples were taken upon contractor arrival with full site remediation contractually required.
2. Debris Tonnage & Processing Timeline: Member Gustafson asked about estimated tonnage. Director Babcock confirmed approximately 4,000 tons deposited so far, with the contractor expected to process existing debris within about a week.
3. Park Restoration: Member Gustafson asked whether the contractor is responsible for full park restoration. Director Babcock confirmed complete restoration to pre-use condition — including sprinkler systems, grading, and sod — is required under the contract.
4. Contract Cost: Member Gustafson asked about the contract cost. Director Babcock confirmed a base charge of approximately $2.5 million ($1.7 million setup/operations + $800K remediation), not including per-ton processing charges, funded from the City’s emergency preparedness budget.
5. Public Access to C.O.R.P.: Member Smart asked who can drop off debris at C.O.R.P. Director Babcock clarified C.O.R.P. is not a public drop-off site; residents may use the Wahiawā Convenience Center or Kawailoa Transfer Station, open seven days a week, 7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
6. Agency Coordination, Environmental Health & Prior Board Notification: Chair Bass relayed community member Mr. MacDowell’s concerns regarding agency coordination, air quality, odor, and whether the Board was notified prior to C.O.R.P.’s activation. Director Babcock confirmed the Department of Health (DOH) has been notified and is involved with standard dust suppression practices in place. Chair Bass acknowledged the Board was not notified prior to activation but thankful that Director Babcock was in attendance to address concerns.
7. Public Assurance & DOH Oversight of Soil Quality: Chair Bass asked how the public can be assured there will be no negative environmental impact and whether DOH will provide oversight on final soil quality. Director Babcock indicated that DOH sign-off is likely part of the process and that a portion of the contractor’s payment is withheld until all restoration requirements are satisfied, though he noted he would need to confirm DOH’s specific role in the final acceptance.
8. Hazardous Materials Screening: Member Nagamine asked how ENV is ensuring hazardous materials are not being sent to the site. Director Babcock acknowledged no screening is conducted at intake given the emergency circumstances, noting debris is coming directly from residential homes. The contractor will sort through materials and a special hazardous waste collection may be held if needed.
9. Convenience Center Hours: Member Freed raised concern about the Wahiawā Convenience Center closing before posted hours and not answering phones. Director Babcock acknowledged centers temporarily close when bins are full or being switched and asked for patience.

Office of the City & County of Honolulu Council District 8, Councilmember Val Okimoto – [2:21:39]: Pua Smith-Kauhane announced Mayor Blangiardi proposed FY2027 budget of $5.09 billion ($3.97 billion operating, $1.1 billion capital). Council is reviewing line by line. Storm-related costs are being factored in.
● Newsletter: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/6098c5bb75e480679bd2fab3/t/69b0c4ab2b48f3614805c44c/1773192363075/March+NL+Pages_26.pdf
Office of the City & County of Honolulu Council District 2, Councilmember Matthew Weyer – [2:24:07]: Kelly Anaya shared that the fiscal year 2027 budget first reading was held that day. Haleiwa Distilling Company will be going back to business on Friday, March 27, 2026, as they were doing donations and pick up; Waialua Community Association (Haleʻiwa gym) serves as an alternate donation point. The city encourages monetary donations only to trusted nonprofits.

Office of State Senate District 18, Senator Michelle Kidani – [2:26:35]: Trevor Nagamine reported the following: (1) New statewide student cell phone policy effective 2026–2027 school year: no phones during school hours (elementary/middle); no phones during instruction (high school). (2) $1.5M CIP (Capitol Improvement Project) released to study H-1/Kunia interchange upgrades. (3) Kamehameha Highway mural: collaborative HDOT/DOE project with local high school students; no broader community outreach was conducted.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [2:29:00]
1. Community Consultation for Highway Mural: Member Svrcina asked if the community was consulted prior to the mural being painted. Trevor confirmed outreach was limited to participating schools and DOE; no broader community consultation occurred.

Office of State Senate District 17, Senator Donovan Dela Cruz – [2:29:47]: Diego Ortiz shared that the Senator attended the high court groundbreaking and first-ever Hawaiʻi Internship Summit. March 2026 included Education Week which recognized educators, and the session has reached a crossover. HDOT completed a traffic study for Kipapa Elementary and will install a raised crosswalk on Kuahelani Drive (currently in design phase).

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [2:31:18]
1. Whitmore Agribusiness Park – Law Enforcement Facility: Member Ka’anehe questioned whether a Department of Law Enforcement facility (about 21,000 sq. ft. and roughly $20 million) included in Senator Dela Cruz’s Whitmore Agribusiness Industrial Park CIP was intentionally embedded within the agribusiness/food hub project, drawing a parallel to the previously rejected HPD/HFD training site at Mililani Tech Park, and asked about its intended use and any future law enforcement training purposes. Diego Ortiz acknowledged the concern and agreed to follow up with more details at the next meeting.

Office of State House District 38, Representative Lauren Matsumoto – [2:34:14]: Amanda Neuman reported that there were three bills that had crossed over: HB 1756 (individual housing accounts for home savings), HB 1963 (criminalizes non-consensual sharing of intimate images), HB 2558 (out-of-state telehealth providers for Hawaiʻi patients). Legislative Town Hall recording available at repmatsumoto.com. The Mid-session survey is live online.

Office of State House District 37, Representative Trish La Chica – [2:37:04]: Tiara Tenorio reported that Representative La Chica’s office assisted at Mililani District Park (aided 21 individuals, 3 pets; mobile shower on-site). The following bills passed at crossover: SB 2695 (crosswalk/pedestrian safety) and HB 1782 (AI chatbot protections for minors). Also reported was educator recognition. The mid-session survey available on the representative’s website.
● Newsletter: https://reptrishlachica.com/assets/images/newsletters/2026-03/newsletter.pdf
● District 37 Updates: https://reptrishlachica.com/district-updates
● 2026 Session Bills: https://reptrishlachica.com/bills

Office of Rep. Amy Perruso – [2:41:28]: Representative Perruso reported spending five days in Waialua at the Haleʻiwa Distilling Company resilience hub, where a deal was reached to keep it open 7–10 more days with 90–120 volunteers serving daily in coordination with Lāhui Foundation and Aloha United Way. She expressed gratitude to the Mililani community for their continued support, calling the island-wide outpouring of help one of the most inspiring experiences she has witnessed.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [2:45:00]
1. HB 2413 – Pre-Trial Reform / No Bail: Member Kaʻanehe asked about HB 2413 status. Representative Perruso confirmed it is still moving through the Senate and agreed to follow up. Member Ka’anehe referenced a reported incident of 15 vehicles broken into in a row in Mililani and noted that under HB 2413, an individual arrested for such an offense would be automatically released, citing this as an example of her concern with the bill.
2. Wahiāwa Dam Communication & Upgrades: Member Ross asked for an update on the Wahiāwa Dam. Representative Perruso clarified that the alert for “imminent catastrophic failure” was a miscommunication—the dam simply reached its spillway level, not structural failure. DLNR (Department of Land and Natural Resources) intends to take over the dam; Sustainable Hawaiʻi is being compensated and Dole plans to donate its portion. Flooding contributed more to long-standing land and water management issues than to the dam itself.

VIII. ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:50:34]
Donation Drive: Friday, April 3, 2026, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. at Mililani High School lower campus gym. Volunteers and supply donations needed.
Next Board Meeting: Wednesday, April 22, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – Mililani High School H Building and via Webex.
Broadcasting: ʻŌlelo Channel 49 (every 2nd Thursday, 9:00 a.m.) and ʻŌlelo Channel 54 (1st and 3rd Saturday, 9:00 a.m.).

IX. ADJOURNMENT – [2:51:52]
The meeting adjourned at 9:51 p.m.

Submitted by: Rachel Cristobal, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Lindon Valenciano, Public Relations Assistant, NCO
Finalized by: Sabrina Gustafson, 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.