When
Where
67-020 Waialua Beach Road, Waialua, Hawaiʻi, 96791
Events
NORTH SHORE NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 27
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 2026
WAIALUA ELEMENTARY CAFETERIA
67-020 WAIALUA BEACH ROAD, WAIALUA, HI 96791
7:00 P.M.
Meeting Materials: Find an archive of handouts and referenced materials concerning to North Shore Neighborhood Board No. 27 at:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1IHC_YHAUoI_2hPauiSJ1nbvIiMu5giyt.
Rules of 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 two (2) minutes, and those giving reports are urged to keep their reports less than three (3) minutes. Please silence all electronic devices.
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 (2/3) vote (10) of this 15-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.
I. CALL TO ORDER: Chair Kathleen Pahinui
II. 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.
III. FILLING OF VACANT BOARD SEAT: There is one (1) vacancy in Sub District 4 (Kawailoa). Residents interested in filling the vacant board seat must bring current proof of residency and present themselves to the Neighborhood Assistant BEFORE the Board meeting starting at 7 pm. Term commencing June 23, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027. Proof of residency will consist of a current Driver’s License or State ID with a current address or a utility bill in resident’s name with current address
IV. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS (Limited to three (3) Minutes Each)
A. Honolulu Fire Department
B. Honolulu Police Department
C. Honolulu Ocean Safety
D. Board of Water Supply
V. RESIDENTS’/COMMUNITY CONCERNS: (Limited to two (2) Minutes Each)
VI. BOARD BUSINESS (Limited to maximum 10 Minute Presentation)
A. Haleʻiwa Beach Park (including Puaʻena Beach) Proposed Park Closure Hours, 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. – Representatives of the Honolulu Police Dept and Dept of Parks and Recreation
B. Motion in support of Updating the Kaiaka Bay Watershed Study to include Flood Issues and Solutions – Vice Chair Racquel Achiu
C. Discussion and Vote Regarding the North Shore Neighborhood Board’s Proposed In-Person with Remote Access Meeting Format
VII. CITY ELECTED OFFICIALS (Limited to three (3) Minutes Each)
A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi Representative – Dr. Kealoha Fox
B. Council Member Matt Weyer
VIII. STATE ELECTED OFFICIALS: (Limited to three (3) Minutes Each)
A. State Senator Brenton Awa
B. State Representatives: Sean Quinlan and Amy Perruso
IX. U.S. ARMY 8TH MILITARY POLICE BRIGADE and 25TH COMBAT AVIATION BRIGADE
X. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. May 26, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes
XI. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Water and Land Committee – Chair Racquel Achiu
B. Cesspool Committee – Chair Kathleen Pahinui
C. Parks Committee – Chair Denise Antolini
D. Health and Emergency Prep Committee – Chair Kathleen Pahinui
E. Transportation Committee – Chair Carol Philips
XII. BOARD MEMBER ATTENDANCE AT COMMUNITY MEETINGS / PUBLIC HEARINGS
XIII. ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. Chair’s Correspondence – correspondence is emailed to board members.
B. Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting: Tuesday, July 28, 2026
C. Board Member Announcements
XIV. 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, 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.
WAIALUA ELEMENTARY CAFETERIA
Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYdXW4Io3jI
Reports and other meeting materials can be found at:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1IHC_YHAUoI_2hPauiSJ1nbvIiMu5giyt
CALL TO ORDER – [0:01:00]: Chair Kathleen Pahinui called the North Shore Neighborhood Board No. 27 meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Quorum was established with 11 members present. Note: This 15-member Board requires eight (8) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.
Members Present: Dave Burlew (arrived at 7:05 p.m.), Amy Denzer, Sharryl Matsumoto, Kristina Zazueta, SharLyn Foo, Bob Leinau, Kathleen Pahinui, Carol Philips, Leif Andersen, Racquel Achiu, George Atkins, and Denise Antolini
Members Absent: Andrew Wycklendt and Blake McElheny
Guests: Mayor Rick Blangiardi; Warren Mamizuka (Deputy Director, Department of Facility Maintenance – DFM); Scott Humber (Director of Communications); Managing Director Krishna Jayaram, Andy Sugg (Chief of Staff); Dr. Kealoha Fox (Mayor Blangiardi’s Representative, Office of Climate Change Sustainability and Resiliency); Kelly Anaya (Councilmember Matt Weyer’s Office); Representative Amy Perruso; Mark Taliai (Senator Brenton Awa’s Office); Jason Wool, Dori Amano-Mitsui (Department of Parks and Recreation – DPR); Jim Hayes (Planning Solutions, Inc.); Dan Nellis (Dole Food Company Hawaii); Manu Anana (Waialua Community Association); John Storm and Jamie Ubongin (North Shore Swim Series); Anna Sumpter, Jeremy Sumpter, Karen Gallagher, Larry McElheny, Cora Sanchez, Sophie Moser, Dave Fuga, Derek Gamiao, Frank Tramontano, Grace, Ed Subia, Milton Nahinu, Gloria Nahinu, Kamanu, Raphael Maldonado, Barb Luke-Boe, Alan, Christian Adams, Rex D-Shanahan, Jo Farrens, Berni Paik-Apau, Cy Yamamoto, Terry Yamamoto, Lieve Mosier, Evelyn Kaneshige, Lynell DaMate, Erendira Aldana, Crystal Dombron, Makanani Rivera, Bill Andersen, Becca Hueckel, Jacqueline Leinau, Joshua Leinau, Andrew Woods (Guests/Residents); Lloyd Yonenaka, Zhoydell Magaoay (NCO). Note: The names of any attendees who were illegible were not included. There were approximately 88 attendees.
DECLARATION OF ANY CONFLICTS BY BOARD MEMBERS – [0:02:58]: No conflicts were declared by board members.
RESIDENTS’ / COMMUNITY CONCERNS – [0:03:05]
1. Dole Puuiki Park Gift to Waialua Community Association: Dole Food Company Hawaiʻi’s Dan Nellis and Waialua Community Association’s Manu Anana announced that Dole has donated the Puuiki Park shoreline park on Waialua Beach Road to the Waialua Community Association. The first phase of the transition will focus on stabilizing the park and ensuring it is safe and accessible for public use. Interested volunteers are encouraged to reach out to the association office.
2. North Shore Swim Series Summer Events: John Storm and Jamie Ubongin from the North Shore Swim Series announced their upcoming summer series consisting of five events starting June 13, 2026 through August 1, 2026 running every other Saturday at 9:00 a.m. This marks the series’ 37th year.
3. Community-Supported Playground Initiative: Resident Ana Sumpter shared a proposal to improve playgrounds for North Shore keiki, supported by over 100 Waialua families. She proposed a community-funded model modeled after the ʻĀnuenue Playground on Hawaiʻi Island, and requested board support to begin a feasibility discussion with DPR, the mayor’s representative, and the council member’s office. Chair Pahinui directed her to work with the Parks Committee Chair Denise Antolini.
• Info: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ffl1JVagMzZD0zRBzDvm4ytlHoH1mlGc/view?usp=drive_link
4. North Shore Transportation Alternatives – Clarification on Land Purchase: Karen Gallagher, president of North Shore Transportation Alternatives, corrected a Star-Advertiser article that incorrectly reported her organization was in the process of purchasing a seven-acre parcel near Weed Circle. She clarified that the organization has no plans to purchase any property and emphasized that no action will be taken without thorough community input and discussion.
5. Haleʻiwa Beach Park Mauka Canoe Hālau Update: Larry McElheny and Cora Sanchez thanked the mayor, city staff — particularly parks employee Denny Higa — and community volunteers for their efforts on the project. They expressed hope that the City will continue working closely with community stakeholders as the project moves into its next phase.
6. Agriculture Stewardship Hawaii – Kaiaka Bay Watershed Project: Sophie Moser of Agriculture Stewardship Hawaii announced the Kaiaka Bay Watershed Project, a three-year initiative offering farmers in the Wahiawa to Waialua area free conservation plans and up to $90,000 in financial assistance for erosion-reduction practices. Applications open at the end of next month, and interested farmers are encouraged to contact her directly. Chair Pahinui referred her to Vice Chair Achiu, who heads the Water and Land Committee.
Member Burlew arrived at 7:05 p.m. There were 12 members present.
BOARD BUSINESS – [0:15:29]
Kona Low 2 Update from City – [0:15:39]: Mayor Rick Blangiardi and Deputy Director of Facilities and Maintenance Warren Mamizuka provided an update on the City’s recovery from the Kona Low 2 storm of March 20–22, 2026 — described as a 500-year storm that dropped two trillion gallons of water statewide, peaking at seven inches of rainfall per hour. Beginning March 24, 2026 DFM dredged Kaukonahua Stream seven days a week, removing approximately 5,400 truckloads of material from both the Otake Camp and Haona Street sides, while also addressing storm drain infrastructure and installing a temporary equipment crossing. Weed Circle was used as a staging site and will be restored within three months; preliminary soil testing showed contaminants below concern levels, with formal Department of Health testing still to come. Mayor Blangiardi thanked the community for their patience and praised the State DOT, National Guard, Army, Navy, and volunteers, emphasizing the City’s continued commitment to listening and responding to community concerns throughout the long road to recovery.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:31:06].
1. Restoration of Farm Access Roads: Frank Tramontano asked whether Road A, one of two access roads off Farrington Avenue past Pioneer Road (used by approximately 36 small-acreage farmers), will be restored. He noted it has been in place for over 40 years and is critical for fire and safety. Deputy Director Mamizuka confirmed familiarity with Roads A and B and stated that Road A was pulled out due to a non-functional pipe culvert that was reset, and the team will address Road A’s restoration as part of the cleanup.
2. Emergency Proclamation Extension and Emergency Siren Usage: Barb Luke-Boe asked whether the emergency proclamation could be extended beyond June 7, 2026, and how flood-related emergency sirens would be activated. Managing Director Krishna Jayaram confirmed that proclamations are nearly always extended in natural disaster situations and that the Governor’s office has indicated an extension is forthcoming. Mayor Blangiardi acknowledged that the decision not to activate sirens during the Kona Low events was controversial, explaining that first responders had advised residents to shelter in place. He added that the City will review siren protocols, including a possible voice retrofit, and noted that several North Shore sirens are currently non-functional — a matter under state jurisdiction to repair.
3. Road Runoff Flooding on Haona Street: Ed Subia raised concern that his property flooded in all three flood events not only from the stream but from road runoff — water flows by gravity into his yard as it is the lowest point on the road. He noted existing storm drains do not adequately capture the runoff. Mayor Blangiardi acknowledged the concern and asked Subia to provide his contact information to DFM for follow-up on storm drain issues.
4. BWS Reservoir Discharge Warning and Investigation Request: Otake resident Grace, who has lived along the river for years, shared that her home has flooded three times and that she raised concerns about the river’s deteriorating condition two years ago with no response. She noted that no warning system was in place during any of the three flood events and called for an investigation into BWS reservoir discharge below the dam. She urged officials to prioritize community safety and called for greater empathy and accountability.
5. Farrington Highway Ditch Capacity and Plantation Road Drainage: Milton Ahinu thanked the City for dredging and noted that during a prior storm the State pumped the drain on the day of the event but water overflowed within 30 minutes. He expressed concern that the ditch, which used to be wider and deeper when he worked on the plantation, has been compromised — and that old plantation ditches feeding into the area have been buried and flattened. He asked whether there are plans to restore that drainage infrastructure along Farrington Highway just across Waialua United Church of Christ. Deputy Director Mamizuka committed to following up and getting his contact information.
6. Rebuild Case Management and Road Repair: A community member thanked the City and DPP Director Apuna for the Rebuild Oʻahu events, then asked who is leading case management for the rebuild and whether road damage from cleanup efforts will be addressed. Mayor Blangiardi said he would follow up on case management and confirmed ongoing road recovery discussions with state DOT. Deputy Director Mamizuka noted that island-wide pothole patching has fallen behind due to resources being concentrated in Waialua.
7. Drain Clearance at Waialua Beach Park and Distribution Center Appreciation: Manu Anana thanked Deputy Director Mamizuka and DFM for clearing the drain near Aliʻi Beach Park after a prior town hall request, noting that the cleared drain made a meaningful difference during the flood — even though her home still flooded with 20 inches of water. She also commended the City for staffing the Waialua distribution center with navigators who walked flood victims through available services, specifically citing Maka and Napua Casson-Fisher for their coordination.
8. Haleʻiwa Beach Park Mauka Canoe Hālau – Next Steps: Dave Fuga of Manu O Ke Kai Canoe Club expressed enthusiasm for the proposed canoe hālau at the mauka side of Haleʻiwa Beach Park, noting the club hosts over 200 kids and is growing. He asked what the next steps are. Chair Pahinui noted the next presentation by Jason Wool would address this item directly.
9. Extent of Stream Dredging at Long Bridge: Derek Gamiao asked how far downstream the dredging will proceed, expressing concern that if the work stops while the stream is still obstructed downstream, flooding will continue. Deputy Director Mamizuka stated the extent depends on the emergency proclamation, and Mayor Blangiardi stated his confidence the proclamation will be extended. DOT Director Sniffen has also publicly stated plans to dredge Kaiaka Bay.
10. Streambank Softening at Haona Street Bend: Raphael Maldonado asked whether the bend in the stream near the temporary crossing — where water backed up into Otake — would be dredged and softened, and whether the opposite bank (Agricultural land side) running to the ocean will be addressed. Deputy Director Mamizuka confirmed plans to soften the bend and add large boulders to protect agricultural property owned by Paul Lindo. Work on the Agricultural land side of the river to the ocean is not currently in the plan but may follow.
11. Debris in Bay Near Mano O Ke Kai Canoe Club: Member Andersen raised concern about trees and debris washed into the bay in front of Manu O Ke Kai Canoe Club, asking whether removal is planned. Mayor Blangiardi committed to following up.
12. Weed Circle Trees & Agricultural Community Case Management: Member Philips urged the City to immediately address dirt buried around trees in Weed Circle, warning that four months of bark and cambium coverage could kill them. Mayor Blangiardi committed to looking into it. Member Philips also raised concerns about case management access for elderly farmers facing barriers including undocumented status, language, and limited technology access. Mayor Blangiardi acknowledged the City is actively working across sectors to improve outreach to that community.
13. Storm Drain Redesign Near Waimea Bay: Member Foo asked whether storm drains near Waimea Bay could be redirected or redesigned, noting they appear to predate the surrounding residential development and their current configuration channeled floodwater directly into the Foodland area. Mayor Blangiardi indicated the City will look into it.
14. Appreciation for DFM Team Efforts and Disaster Preparedness: Rachel Achiu thanked Deputy Director Mamizuka and the DFM team for their tireless, dedicated work, acknowledged the need for future improvements and better preparedness, but noted that 60 inches of rain in 10 days is something nearly impossible to prepare for — sometimes you just get hit, and she prays it never happens again.
15. Kaiaka Watershed Long-Term Planning & Community Engagement: Member Antolini thanked Deputy Director Mamizuka and the DFM team for their tireless efforts and asked about long-term planning for the Kaiaka watershed, specifically referencing the 2018 watershed study and a proposed City, State, Army Corps cooperation plan. She also requested that the community be included in the after-action review process. Mayor Blangiardi and staff acknowledged her concerns and committed to keeping the community engaged.
16. Emergency Proclamation Renewal & Assistance Center: Member Matsumoto thanked the City for the assistance center at the gym, noting two of her family members were among those affected. She asked about the process for renewing the emergency proclamation to ensure dredging efforts continue. Managing Director Jayaram confirmed the proclamation will be renewed before it lapses.
17. Contraflow & Chain Barrier Maintenance: Secretary Denzer asked for an update on the contraflow at Waimea and the maintenance status of the chain barrier near the mountain. The chain barrier concern was redirected as a state/DOT issue.
18. Support for Farming Community: Member Burlew expressed appreciation for Member Philips advocacy on behalf of farmers and asked for assurance that the farming community will not be left behind. Mayor Blangiardi confirmed it remains a priority, with a multi-sector group of over 30 advocates actively working on the issue.
19. Soil & Sediment Orign Investigation: Member Zazueta questioned whether an investigation has been initiated into the origin of the soil and sediment, specifically regarding possible grading on land where a gondola project is proposed. Mayor Blangiardi stated he is unfamiliar with the status of any such investigation and committed to following up.
20. Siren Retrofitting & Dole Property Staging Site: Treasurer Leinau asked about adding voice capability to emergency sirens and whether there’s a plan for the dirt pile deposited on the Dole property. Deputy Director Mamizuka explained the site was used as overflow staging and that the material will be tested and redistributed.
Haleʻiwa Beach Park Mauka Canoe Hālau Update – [1:14:19]
Jason Wool, District 4 Supervisor, Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) presented an update on the proposed Haleʻiwa Canoe Hālau at the Mauka side of Haleʻiwa Beach Park. The project is a Department of Design and Construction (DDC) capital improvement project on DPR property, with Group 70 as consultant. The project, originally conceived approximately 20 years ago, is currently in design and planning. An Environmental Assessment (EA) is in process, which requires presenting two alternatives (A and B). Alternative A is the preferred option, featuring two access routes, more parking, and proximity to existing canoe club locations. Construction bid is targeted for 2029, with the facility expected to last 80–100 years despite projected sea level rise. A 30-day public comment period will be announced once the EA is posted, and the board will be notified.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hSaQbXdcI591lUXwlLAokfjydFhlCCLL/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:18:31].
1. Canoe Club Parking Use: Chair Pahinui asked how parking would be reserved for the canoe club versus general park users. Wool explained that parking is open to all park users, with three (3) truck-and-trailer stalls designated for canoe and kayak transport, noting the Department lacks the staffing to enforce further restrictions.
2. Community Input and Canoe Club Vetting: Treasurer Leinau asked if canoe clubs had been consulted and whether community labor could speed up the project. Wool confirmed he had met with club representatives and their input was shared with the design team, and while individual donations or volunteer help are welcome, community construction of a project this size isn’t feasible at this stage.
3. Community Involvement in Canoe Facility Construction: Treasurer Leinau asked whether the canoe community could help build the facility to speed things up, pointing to past community efforts like Pūpūkea Beach Park as an example. Wool acknowledged the idea but noted the project is already underway with a consultant and project manager, and while donations or volunteer help would be welcome, building a full facility from the ground up is far more complex than court repairs and restructuring it as a community-led project isn’t feasible at this stage, with groundbreaking hoped for in about three years.
4. Environmental Assessment Comment Period and Signage: Member Antolini asked that the board be notified of the EA comment period so community concerns can be formally submitted. She also encouraged the inclusion of meaningful signage to celebrate the purpose of the space and noted a long-standing concern about commercial spillover from nearby restaurants. Dori Amano-Mitsui confirmed the Board will be notified and that these concerns can be raised during the EA comment period.
5. Crosswalk Access: Secretary Denzer asked whether one crosswalk will be sufficient for safety at the facility. Wool indicated that DDC is potentially exploring an additional crosswalk and that a traffic study will inform the decision.
Special Management Area Permit for 61-759 Papaʻiloa Road – [1:31:18]: Jim Hayes of Planning Solutions, Inc. presented a proposed Special Management Area (SMA) Major Permit application for property at 61-759 Papaʻiloa Road. The current dwelling was built in 1961. The proposal involves: replacing an existing open carport with a garage; adding approximately 400 square feet of living space above the garage; and enclosing approximately 200 square feet of existing deck. No development is proposed within the sea level rise exposure area or shoreline setback area. The 17,000-square-foot parcel easily complies with the Land Use Ordinance. The applicant will submit for an SMA permit, followed by a DPP hearing at Honolulu Hale and City Council zoning committee review. The property owner was present at the meeting.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g-vI2D875DjV_on_iHjxzjNJ9hs1_coV/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:34:40]
1. Archaeological and Cultural Assessments: Vice Chair Achiu asked about archaeological/cultural assessments and wastewater management. Hayes stated the garage is sited at the existing disturbed carport location to minimize ground disturbance, and that the State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) will require an archaeological inventory survey (AIS) with subsurface testing and monitoring during excavation as standard SMA permit conditions.
2. Proposed Improvement Value and Shoreline Certification: Member Antolini asked about the value of improvements and shoreline survey recertification. Hayes indicated the value is conceptual but assumed to exceed $500,000 (triggering an SMA major permit) and will be presented formally in the SMA application. The waiver line – 15 feet beyond the shoreline setback – applies, so no new shoreline certification is required.
3. Long-term Development Intent: Member Antolini noted the purchase price of $6.5 million and that the proposed improvements appear modest, asking whether this is Phase 1 of a larger future build. Hayes stated he is not aware of any plans beyond what was presented.
4. Shoreline Erosion Rate: Treasurer Leinau asked about shoreline erosion rates in that area. Hayes indicated that the nearest transect shows minimal erosion — approximately negative 0.4 feet per year — and that the applicable study is used as required by the shoreline setback ordinance.
5. Archaeological Sensitivity of the Site: Member Andersen noted that based on prior work experience in the area, nearly every excavation uncovered something of cultural or historical significance and urged the applicant to have an archaeologist on-site during any ground disturbance. Hayes confirmed SHPD protocols will be followed.
6. Revised SMA Presentation Protocol: Chair Pahinui proposed that for this and future SMA presentations, the Board acknowledge the presentation rather than vote to support or oppose it, and notify DPP and the City Council that any final permit application deviating from what was presented should be returned to the neighborhood board for explanation.
7. Second-Level Living Space Use: Secretary Denzer asked about the intended use of the second-level living area above the garage (whether it would be a rental or vacation rental). Hayes stated it is not a separate unit — just additional room for the 1,300-square-foot home — with only a wet bar, no kitchen.
[1:45:43] – Treasurer Leinau MOVED and Vice Chair Achiu SECONDED to send a letter to DPP and the City Council acknowledging the presentation of the SMA permit application and requesting that, if the final proposal deviates from what was presented to the board, the applicant be required to return to the board to explain any changes. Discussions followed. Vice Chair Achiu noted the property is located between two currently non-compliant construction projects and emphasized the importance of the presented plan matching what is ultimately built. Hearing no further discussions, the Board conducted a roll call vote; 12-0-0 (Aye: Burlew, Denzer, Matsumoto, Atkins, Achiu, Zazueta, Philips, Antolini, Foo, Leinau, Pahinui, Andersen; Nay: None; Abstain: None.) – [1:48:33]. The motion was ADOPTED.
FILLING OF VACANT BOARD SEAT – [1:49:08]
Chair Pahinui announced the vacant board seat in Sub District 4 (Kawailoa). No residents came forward to fill the vacancy. The item will remain on the agenda until filled.
CITY MONTHLY REPORTS – [1:49:24]
Chair Pahinui noted that due to the Mayor’s attendance and adjusted agenda, written reports only were provided for the May 2026 meeting.
Honolulu Fire Department:
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BuISq7T6paFcDJ0P0FSpVZ4al1Bk0Al5/view?usp=drive_link
Honolulu Police Department:
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/17U9_gVhkyTI6aYVIzwRSTg6lmFyUkQkF/view?usp=drive_link
Honolulu Ocean Safety: No report received. Ocean Safety will be present next month.
Board of Water Supply:
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aw0v3ATZRB_sFsGXTQisoy1XFiput1Dx/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:49:51].
1. BWS and Recent Earthquake: Treasurer Leinau asked how the Board of Water Supply fared during the recent earthquake. BWS representative Pahinui reported no issues for the agency.
CITY ELECTED OFFICIALS – [1:50:22]
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [1:50:37]: Dr. Kealoha Fox thanked the board and provided an update. She noted a memo dated May 26, 2026 was sent summarizing departmental responses to questions from the previous board meeting, using a summary format given the volume and overlap of flood-related concerns. Dr. Fox also announced the City’s first-ever Oʻahu Food Systems Plan is open for public comment through June 30, 2026. The plan is accessible at www.resilientoahu.org/foodsystemsplan. Handouts with a QR code were distributed.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/11S5irSdDw3ShMDKFPkLx-tiNRagKMK7j/view?usp=drive_link
• Responses to previously requested questions:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kB3FJF9Mj5QzbJV2a6ZxQXKwfjCbZlut/view?usp=drive_link
• Food Systems Plan:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1No9wRZO-P3mUZT4ekik4O5P7sG1-n3hD/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:53:31]
1. North Shore Sustainable Communities Plan Rollout Update: Member Antolini asked for an update on the North Shore Sustainable Communities Plan rollout. Dr. Fox indicated the council process stalled due to the storms, and that DPP must advance this plan before moving on to the next plan. Chair Pahinui noted that the DPP team will present at the September 2026 board meeting, and that the agenda will likely be organized similarly to tonight’s to allow adequate time for discussion.
Councilmember Matt Weyer – [1:56:10]: Kelly Anaya highlighted key updates including a $1.5M budget amendment for the Kaiaka Bay watershed study, $1M for kūpuna food access, and a FEMA/SBA disaster loan deadline of June 14, 2026. She also noted real property tax remission information at www.oneoahu.org (deadline June 30, 2026) and Board of Water Supply bill credits for March–April storm-related property damage at wecare@hbws.org. On transportation, DTS does not recommend a marked crosswalk at the Haleʻiwa/Paalaa Road intersection, though a raised crosswalk near Haleʻiwa Elementary is being explored as part of the multi-use path project.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1auT9a7si3-SmDgiheyf0GpxxeIYeGcAE/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:59:52].
1. Legal Status of Raised Crosswalks: Treasurer Leinau asked whether raised crosswalks have been thoroughly legally vetted given prior litigation. Anaya indicated she would follow up and confirmed the raised crosswalk is part of the DOT Haleʻiwa multi-use path project in coordination with DTS Director Sniffen’s school zone priorities.
STATE ELECTED OFFICIALS – [2:00:47]
State Representative Amy Perruso – [2:01:13]: Representative Perruso reported that the 2026 legislative session has closed, with the House pushing for a special session to fix an omitted safe harbor provision in SB 3125 that puts $400M in solar projects and hundreds of jobs at risk. Flood repair funding for Waialua High and Intermediate School is confirmed through the State DOE. Her office will canvass the community on reforming stream maintenance law, which currently burdens adjacent private property owners, and plans are underway to strengthen Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM) staffing. She also announced legislation to criminalize medical fraud following a case in which an OB/GYN substituted his own genetic material during fertility treatments — not currently covered by state law — and urged affected families to contact her office confidentially.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/19rNGZY66DQbL7CzKPtKF7bQlwH5bZSPk/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:06:02].
1. Stream Maintenance Law Reform and CWRM Capacity: Chair Pahinui cautioned against simply shifting stream responsibility to the government given existing management problems and CWRM’s lack of staff, asking for assurance of real follow-through. Representative Perruso acknowledged the complexity, noted DOT has stated it will take over responsibility, and said legislation formalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between federal, state, and city governments is being pursued, with a commitment to strengthening CWRM if positions can be filled.
2. Education on Current Stream Law and Real Estate Disclosure: Member Antolini asked for an educational briefing at a future meeting about the current stream maintenance law — including why it was passed and how it is or isn’t working — and raised the need for a real estate disclosure component. Representative Perruso enthusiastically agreed.
3. Multi-Level Coordination for Flood Resilience: Treasurer Leinau asked how to create the multi-agency collaborative committee (Federal, State, City, and community) that Vice Chair Achiu previously called for. Representative Perruso noted the purpose of the legislative info briefing was to start that conversation and emphasized that the board’s disaster and resilience committee is the ideal community anchor for that coordination.
Senator Brenton Awa – [2:12:33]: Mark Taliai reported that the 2026 legislative session concluded with 267 bills passed to the Governor. Notable outcomes include campaign finance reform prohibiting corporate political spending and four bills supporting working families through tax relief, SNAP and healthcare protections, expanded opportunities for younger commercial drivers, and improved port oversight. FEMA assistance runs through June 14, and OHA’s Kona Low Disaster Assistance Program offers grants up to $15,000 for eligible Hawaiian homeowners and $7,500 for renters. Senator Awa continues community engagement through district food tree projects in Haleʻiwa and Kahaluʻu.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:14:46].
1. OHA Renter Assistance Eligibility: Member Atkins asked for clarification on OHA renter assistance. Taliai confirmed that Hawaiian ancestry is required for the OHA program.
2. Senate Return for Solar Tax Credit Fix: Community member Alan asked whether Senator Awa will support a special session to fix the solar tax credit safe harbor issue. Taliai nodded in the affirmative.
State Legislative Update – HB 1881 (Gondola/Ropeway/Tramway Ban) – [2:16:02]: Chair Pahinui announced that HB 1881, prohibiting ropeways, gondolas, and tramways on Hawaiʻi’s mountains, has passed the legislature and awaits the Governor’s signature. Despite opposition from mainland ski lift industry interests, most respondents pushed back on social media. Chair Pahinui has contacted the Governor’s office and will send a formal letter urging signature. She also noted that DPP is conducting a rigorous review of the original Gondola conditional use permit and may be awaiting the Governor’s action before issuing a position; the Board hopes DPP will rescind the permit and will continue to follow up.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES – [2:19:10]
March 24, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes: Treasurer Leinau provided a correction to the date of when the dam was built. Member Philips MOVED and Member Foo SECONDED to approve the March 24, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes as amended. The motion was ADOPTED by voice vote; 12-0-0 (Aye: Burlew, Denzer, Matsumoto, Atkins, Achiu, Zazueta, Philips, Antolini, Foo, Leinau, Pahinui, Andersen; Nay: None; Abstain: None.) – [2:19:33]
ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:19:43]
Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting: Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
ADJOURNMENT – [2:19:49]
Chair Pahinui adjourned the meeting at approximately 9:18 p.m.
Submitted by: Zhoydell Magaoay, Neighborhood Assistant
Reviewed by: Dylan Whitsell, Deputy
Finalized By: Chair Kathleen Pahinui
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