KĀNE‘OHE NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 30

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2026 AT 6:30 P.M.
WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE – HALE’AKOAKOA 101-105
45-720 KEA‘AHALA ROAD, KĀNEʻOHE, HI 96744
AND VIA WEBEX ONLINE PLATFORM

Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=m289f3083da584caabf8dad1d531b1ad6
Meeting Number: 2488 928 6851
Password: NB30 (6230 when dialing from a phone or video system)
Join By Phone: +1-408-418-9388 United States Toll
Access Code: 2488 928 6851
YouTube Recordings: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1DZJTKor6TTNYiqx5U-P2w
Material: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1bP-j4YYw0YCi4sBV5QEZ8TwVGavf7v_K?usp=sharing
Rules of Speaking: To ensure the maximum opportunity for all attendees to be heard, the following guidelines apply: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to type their question in the chat box or raise their hand using the “raise hand” function in the online Zoom platform – which is indicated by a hand. If accessing the meeting using your phone and you have a comment, indicate this by pressing the symbols *3 – this will show the moderator that the person calling from that number wishes to speak. To mute/unmute your phone, press *6. Please wait until recognized by the chair to begin comments and address those comments to the chair. Please preface your comments by identifying yourself and your affiliation, if any. All official reports, comments or concerns shall be three (3) minutes or less.
Please Kōkua: To help all attendees the opportunity to hear presentations & comments, please place your device on mute until you would like to speak. When you are recognized, unmute yourself and make your comments. The Board may act 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 (12) of this 17-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 Mo Radke 6:30 – 6:31

II. FILLING OF VACANCIES ON THE BOARD: 6:31 – 6:36
Interested residents must bring current proof of residency to the board meeting or contact Neighborhood Assistant Chelsea Smith (chelsea.smith@honolulu.gov) to verify residency before the meeting.
Subdistrict 2 – Crown Terrace
Subdistrict 13 – Kokokahi,
Subdistrict 14 – Yacht Club Terrace

III. CITY/STATE/COMMUNITY REPORTS AND DISCUSSION (3 minutes each) 6:36 – 6:54
A. Honolulu Fire Department
B. Honolulu Police Department
C. Marine Corps Base Hawaii
D. Windward Community College
E. Office of Hawaiian Affairs
F. Castle High School

IV. BOARD BRIEFS & DISCUSSION (10 minutes each) 6:54 – 6:55
A. No Briefs Scheduled

V. RESIDENT/ COMMUNITY CONCERNS (3 minutes each) 6:55 — 7:15

VI. ELECTED OFFICIALS (2 minutes each for formal comments) 7:15 – 7:45
Note: The two minutes does not to include community Q & A
A. US Representative Jill Tokuda
B. Governor Green’s Representative
C. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative
D. Council Member Esther Kia’aina
Congressional, Governor, Mayor & City and County Q&A
E. Senator Jarrett Keohokalole
F. Senator Brenton Awa
G. Representative Lisa Kitagawa
H. Representative Scot Matayoshi
I. Representative Mike Lee
State Officials: Q&A

VII. BOARD BUSINESS 7:45 – 7:50
A. Approval of May 2025 meeting minutes

VIII. COMMITTEE REPORTS / ASSIGNMENTS 7:50 – 8:00
A. Attended Meeting Reports
B. Community Engagement Committee – Toma, Lam
C. Emergency Preparedness Committee – Carstensen, Fleitell, Quitevis, Sakamoto
D. Education Committee – VACANT
E. Transportation – Lam, Sakamoto
F. Military Affairs – Radke, Sakamoto
G. Haiku Stairs – VACANT
H. State Legislative – VACANT
B. Environmental – VACANT
I. HPD Liaison – Carstensen, Sakamoto
J. Planning – Lam
K. Homeless/Kauhale – Burbage, Bryant, Fleitell, Hewitt

IX. ANNOUNCEMENTS 8:10 – 8:15
Next Regular Board Meeting: Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. at WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE – HALE’AKOAKOA 101-105 – or using the virtual login credentials listed at the top of page 1 of this document.

X. ADJOURNMENT 8:15

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 http://www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards.html
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 http://www.honolulu.gov/nco/board-tesimony
If you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accomodation 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 adi/service or accomodation, but if may not be possible to fulfull requests received after this date.

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026 at 6:30 P.M.
WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE – HALE AʻO – 101-102, 45-720 KEA‘AHALA ROAD, KĀNEʻOHE, HI 96744
AND VIA WEBEX

Video Recording of Meeting Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7u6IwAvIkRk
Google Drive Link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1bP-j4YYw0YCi4sBV5QEZ8TwVGavf7v_K

I. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:00]

Chair Radke called the Kāne’ohe Neighborhood Board No. 30 meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Quorum was established with 9 members present. Note: This 17-member Board requires nine (9) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.

Members Present: Donald Sakamoto, Greg (Maka) Quitevis,), Neil Fleitell, Dale Cartensen, Elena Bryant, Abe Toma, Zachary Pilien, Mo Radke, Adriel Lam, John Hewett (joined at 6:35 p.m.), and Patty Yamashiro (joined at 7:07 p.m.).

Members Absent: Lora Burbage and David (Keoni) Shizuma.

Guests: Captain B. Vierra (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Sanford Yu, Captain Campbell, Seagant Nakagawa (Honolulu Police Department), Kristi Kaluhiwa (Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi); Diane Ako (Governor Green’s Representative); Andy Kawano (Mayor Blangiardi’s Representative); Tolua Samifua (Representative Tokuda’s Representative); Elizabeth Tavake (Senator Awaʻs Office); Councilmember Esther Kia’āina, Irene Limos (Councilmember Kia’āina’s Representative); Representative Lisa Kitagawa; Representative Scott Matayoshi; Lisa Uyesato (Windward Neighborhood Security Watch Coordinators Group); Kaleoaloha Biven, Joseph Ooi, Cameron Pierce (Castle High School); Mike Elhoff, Taylor Caster, Janice Lai, Patrick Chandler, Sean Oʻconnor, Cherie Oʻconnor, Hoku Gilbert, Annette Tashiro and Celeste Andres (Residents & Guests). Chelsea Smith and Rachel Cristobal (Neighborhood Commission Office). There were approximately 51 total participants.

II. FILLING OF VACANCIES ON THE BOARD – [0:00:01]

Subdistrict 2 – Crown Terrace: No volunteers.

Subdistrict 9 – Keapuka: No volunteers.

Subdistrict 13 – Kokokahi: No volunteers.

Subdistrict 14 – Yacht Club Terrace: No volunteers.

III. CITY/STATE/COMMUNITY MONTHLY REPORTS AND DISCUSSION – [0:00:46]

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – [0:03:06]: Captain B. Vierra reported the following:
● April 2026 Statistics: One structure fire, nine activated alarms, 120 medicals, one motor vehicle collision with a pedestrian, and five motor vehicle crashes/collisions.
● Fire Safety Tip – Evacuation Planning: Wildfire Prevention and Preparedness – Hawaii is entering a high-risk wildfire season due to dry conditions. Community is encourgaed to take preventative measures
● Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JZ21zy4wHhgISiFj9poc4Dg5UZvwS4hA/view?usp=sharing

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [0:02:10]:
1. Wildfire Presentation Acknowledgment: Member Cartensen thanked HFD for their collaboration in a presentation for Hawaii Wildfires.
2. Wildfire Reignition: Member Sakamoto asked for clarification about extinguised wildfires where root systems from certain vegetation may reignite. Captain Vierra explained surface fuel may not be the only things burning, so in their fire suppression efforts, they will dig into root systems to ensure everything is cooled down and saturated to avoid and rekindling.
3. Kapaʻa Quarry Utility Pole: Chair Radke asked for more information regarding a pole that had falled on Kapaʻa Quarry Road. Captain Vierra did not have any details to report but HFD was following the situation.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – [0:03:30]: Lt. Sanford Yu, Capt Campbell and Sgt. Nakagawa reported the following:
• April 2026 Statistics: No motor vehicle thefts compared to four the previous month, one burglary compared to five the previous month, 15 thefts compared to 10 the previous month, five motor vehicle break ins compared to three the previous month, and zero robberies. HPD responded to 1,690 calls for service.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [0:04:23]
1. H3 Speeding/Noise Control: Member Sakamoto thanked HPD for their continued efforts to control speeding and noisy cars on the H3.

Member John Hewett joined at 6:35 p.m.; 10 members present.

Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi – [0:05:06]: Kristi Kaluhiwa reported the following: Colonel Beaven relinquished command to Colonel DeTrinis. RIMPAC Year anticipate more air traffic, expecting most of the foreign countries to be mobilizing at the ending of June. Training will continue through July ending the first week of August. There will be less closures of the City & County portion of Bellows Beach this year, MCBH plans to keep the beach open as long as there is no turtle nesting. There are three weekends that will affect public access to the beach and they will be forwarded to Chair Radke. In addition to RIMPAC, MCBH will be supporting the Kaupiko Canoe Regatta in July. More details to follow as the event gets closer.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [0:07:28]
1. Opening of the Officer’s Club: Member Sakamoto inquired about the efforts of reopening the Officer’s Club. Kaluhiwa reported that it remains a conversation piece and the biggest question is funding.

Windward Community College – [0:08:34]: No representative present.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) – [0:08:47]: No representative present.

Castle High School (CHS) – [0:08:57]: Cameron Pierce reported the following: Castle High School wrapped up graduation and in the process of planning for future events.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [0:09:28]
1. Future Events Inquiry: Member Lam asked what events are planned for the summer and fall. Cameron Pierce mentioned the High-Five Recycling events that serve as fundraisers for each class’s graduation.
2. Graduation Season Safety: Chair Radke raised awareness about dangerous behavior observed near graduation season, including trucks with smoking tires and e-bike riders doing wheelies. Pierce acknowledged some teachers discuss safety but it has not been addressed school-wide.
3. Current CTE Course Offerings: Member Sakamoto, a 1980 Castle High School alumnus, asked about current career and technical education courses. Karen Pierce confirmed automotive and FFA (Future Farmers of America) are still offered; carpentry has been discontinued; electronics may have been dropped as well. Member Sakamoto expressed hope that carpentry could be restored.

IV. BOARD BRIEFS & DISCUSSION – [0:11:57]

Presentation/possible vote – Kāneʻohe NB Emergency Preparedness Committee – [0:12:07]: Member Carstensen presented on behalf of the Emergency Preparedness Committee, acknowledging National EMS Week and the committee’s work with constituents in the Kāneʻohe area, including John Perkins from emergency management at Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi. He presented a PowerPoint titled “Pre-Disaster Planning and Mitigation” covering:
• Definition: Pre-disaster planning and mitigation refers to proactive measures taken before disaster strikes to minimize loss of life, property damage, and reliance on emergency aid — distinct from emergency management.
• Four Key Aspects: (1) Structural hardening and retrofitting of critical infrastructure against earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires; (2) upgrading utilities, installing microgrids, redundant communications, and burying power cables; (3) improved drainage and stormwater management systems; (4) proactive zoning and building code updates incorporating hazard mitigation requirements. Noted that only one Windward-side elementary school currently meets hurricane preparedness standards, and nearly 50% of Hawaiʻi homes lack hurricane straps.
• FEMA Cost-Effectiveness: A National Institute of Building Sciences/FEMA study found that federal grants save $6 for every $1 spent on pre-disaster planning. Member Carstensen stated the Kona Low storm damage locally was minimal compared to what it could have been.
Member Carstensen read the full text of the Resolution Urging Greater Focus on Pre-Disaster Planning and Mitigation and Community Resiliency Planning in Hawaiʻi. Key whereas clauses addressed: ongoing disaster risks; importance of pre-disaster preparedness distinct from emergency management; community concerns regarding evacuation planning, backup communications, flood mitigation, and supply staging; FEMA’s recognition of mitigation cost savings. Resolved clauses called for: increased attention to visible and community-informed mitigation; collaboration among agencies and community organizations; exploration of pre-disaster working groups; future government buildings built to shelter specifications; redundant communications; flood/storm drainage maintenance; care of kūpuna and disabled persons; and distribution of the resolution to the Governor, HIEMA, Honolulu DEM, Mayor, State Legislature, City Council, congressional delegation, and all Oʻahu Neighborhood Boards. Member Sakamoto MOVED and Member Fleitell SECONDED to adopt the resolution [0:24:30].
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/107mN1A6imSE4OeWHKomC1yWUytv0JR6w/view?usp=drive_link
• Draft Resolution: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sI4u4kIyyTqABrVeAUBMsO33Yo0lw6LU/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [0:24:30]
1. Addition of “Disabled” Language: Member Sakamoto, as a board member, Emergency Response Committee member, and blind individual, requested that “disabled” be added to the resolution alongside “kūpuna” to ensure individuals with disabilities are not overlooked. The committee agreed to add this language.
2. Maintenance and Alternate Access Routes: Member Lam praised the resolution’s depth and highlighted the importance of regular maintenance not merely for beautification but to minimize debris, increase safety, and improve emergency access. He noted that the recent Kailua Road closure lacked pre-planned alternate access routes and urged maintaining all available roadways. He also raised the issue of above-ground power lines, noting federal funding is available to assist in underground conversion, and that the resolution can help direct government and HECO to those resources.
3. Community Voice – Petition Reference: Member Carstensen noted that approximately 50 community members signed a petition during the Windward emergency preparedness fair calling for a better community voice in emergency preparedness — many of whom were senior citizens. He suggested language referencing this community input be added to the resolution to make the case more concrete. The committee agreed to include this language.
4. Acknowledgments and Purpose: Member Carstensen acknowledged Councilmember Kiaʻāina’s budget efforts and Representative Matayoshi and his team for meeting with the committee. He reiterated the resolution’s primary goal is to educate government officials and neighborhood boards, with the hope of fostering workshops and/or a dedicated government forum for community input on pre-disaster planning.
Member Lam called the question [0:31:05] Member Fleitell MOVED and Member Carstenten SECONDED the motion to end discussion [0:33:06]. Hearing no objections the motion was ADOPTED; 10-0-0 (Aye: Radke, Sakamoto, Quitevas, Fleitell, Hewett, Carstensen, Bryant, Toma, Pilien, and Lam; Nay: None; Abstain: None) Member Lam MOVED and Member Sakamoto SECONDED to adopt the resolution as ammendmeded. The motion was ADOPTED; 10-0-0 (Aye: Radke, Sakamoto, Quitevas, Fleitell, Hewett, Carstensen, Bryant, Toma, Pilien, and Lam; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [0:33:36].

Discussion – 45-221 Ka Hanahou Circle – Mike Elhoff, Rob Walker & Taylor Caster – [0:33:44]: Taylor Caster (Integral Consulting) and Mike Elhoff (property owner and applicant) presented regarding a proposed private boat dock at 45-221 Ka Hanahou Circle. Caster noted that the Environmental Assessment (EA) was revised in response to board comments, with a summary letter sent to the board prior to the meeting. Elhoff introduced himself as a 40-year Oʻahu resident and 10-year Kāneʻohe resident, marine engineer, and longtime advocate for removing marine plastics. He described the five-year permitting process and his commitment to proceeding legally and respectfully, having resolved prior property encroachments. He read a letter of support from neighbor Richard Nishida praising the project’s environmental sensitivity and the dock’s potential benefit in reducing reef anchoring. Elhoff stated submerged lands remain public trust lands and the dock will in no way impede public access or navigation.

Member Yamashiro joined at 7:07 p.m.; 11 members present.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [0:40:02]
1. Board’s Standing Concerns and Referral to Kāneʻohe Bay Regional Council: Chair Radke confirmed the board’s prior record stands and concerns remain regarding alignment of the project with three plans protecting Kāneʻohe Bay: the Oʻahu General Plan, the Kāneʻohe Bay Regional Master Plan, and the Koʻolaupoko Sustainable Communities Plan. He directed Elhoff to present to the Kāneʻohe Bay Regional Council (chair: Brian Nielsen), noting the council’s next meeting may be in June or July. Elhoff confirmed outreach to Member Bryant, HIMB, and DLNR, and that OCCL feedback has been generally positive.
2. Council Meeting Notification: Member Bryant confirmed she had already informed Brian Nielsen of Elhoff’s likely outreach and urged Elhoff to contact him immediately, as the June meeting is being considered and agendas must be posted approximately one week in advance.
3. Plan Compliance Clarification: Taylor Caster addressed the board’s concerns regarding the three plans protecting Kāneʻohe Bay, arguing the plans do not specifically preclude private docks and that nothing in the plan conflicts with the proposal. He noted the Kāneʻohe Bay Regional Master Plan’s recommendation regarding mooring availability actually suggests not requiring unnecessary regulatory burdens on private facilities, and that the moratorium on commercial activities does not apply to this private dock.
4. Historical Precedents – Nearby Properties: Member Carstensen shared two relevant cases: (1) a nearby property at 45-277 A was denied a fixed dock and required to use a portable dock, pay the state monthly for 99 years, and maintain a special insurance policy; and (2) a property near Ka Hanahou Circle received fines approaching $200,000 in 2022 for unpermitted dock repair. Elhoff confirmed his awareness of these precedents and his commitment to full compliance, noting he has resolved the boat ramp encroachment and carries public liability insurance.
5. Water Access and Mooring Culture: Member Lam commended the applicant for pursuing this process correctly and noted that Hawaiʻi has among the lowest per-capita docking/mooring space of any state. He expressed appreciation for the effort to increase responsible water access while acknowledging the board’s concerns stem from past abuses.

Motion to support banning aquarium fishing – Elena Bryant – [0:49:21]: Member Bryant provided the following background on commercial aquarium collection:
• History of Commercial Aquarium Collection: Commercial collection of reef fish for the pet trade began during the territorial period based on the misconception that herbivores had no ecological or subsistence value. Current DAR data indicates 99% of reef wildlife collected in Hawaiʻi is sold on mainland pet markets; less than 1% remains in the state; most fish die within the first year of capture.
• Legal Actions and EIS History: In the 2010s, community organizations brought legal action to close the trade. Courts held collection must be closed until environmental review is completed. Between 2018–2020, following a collapse in West Oʻahu herbivore populations, collection was redirected to Kāneʻohe Bay — yellow tang catch alone tripled. The 2021 board became the first Windward community organization to pass a resolution calling for a legislative ban, followed by numerous other organizations (Kahaluʻu NB, Kailua NB, Waimānalo, Kāneʻohe Bay Regional Council, Koʻolaupoko and Kōloa Hawaiian Civic Clubs, and others).
• Current Status: A legislative bill banning collection passed both the House and Senate this session but died in conference. A court recently ruled BLNR does have authority to ban commercial collection. Collectors have published an EIS Preparation Notice (EISPN). A public scoping meeting is scheduled for May 26, 2026, 5:00–7:00 p.m. at the BLNR meeting room. The public comment period closes June 8, 2026 — before the next board meeting.
Chair Radke read the following new sections of the draft comment letter into the record:
• Oʻahu’s Herbivore Population: Oʻahu’s herbivore population is in peril. Given the degraded state of Oʻahu’s reefs and declining herbivore populations, BLNR can and should prohibit commercial aquarium collection statewide rather than prolonging the EIS process for a practice targeting herbivorous fish essential to reef health. During the 2026 legislative session, DNR itself acknowledged significant stressors on Oʻahu’s herbivore populations and proposed temporarily banning spear fishing of uhu and kala to help rebuild populations. The applicant should evaluate less harmful alternatives such as collecting only non-native species or limited take for captive-bred aquaculture operations, as is currently done successfully in Waimānalo.
• Permittee Identification: The Hawaii Fishers Association seeks approval for up to 15 permittees on Oʻahu to harvest reef wildlife for the commercial aquarium pet trade; however, the permittees are not identified in the EISPN. BLNR has an affirmative duty to evaluate each applicant’s qualifications, compliance history, collection practices, geographic scope, and potential impacts on public trust resources and native rights. Without disclosure of collector identities, the agency and public cannot meaningfully assess whether the permits serve the public interest or whether cumulative impacts have been adequately considered.

Member Fleitell MOVED and Member Pilien SECONDED to adopt the comment letter as the boardʻs input to the EIS Preliminary Notice to DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources and Hawaii Fishers Association [1:02:25]. The motion was ADOPTED; 10-0-1 (Aye: Radke, Quitevas, Fleitell, Hewett, Carstensen, Bryant, Toma, Pilien, Yamashiro and Lam; Nay: None; Abstain: Sakamoto) – [1:02:58].

V. RESIDENT/COMMUNITY CONCERNS – [1:03:03]

Sidewalk Hazard near Castle High School – [1:03:27]: Castle High School student reported that since the first major storm, telephone poles on Kāneʻohe Bay Drive outside Castle High School were replaced, but noticeably large holes remain along the adjacent sidewalk, posing a fall risk for community members.

Storm Debris – Punawai St. – [1:04:05]: Castle High School student reported a tree on Punawai Street across from Heʻeia Elementary fell during the storm. Although the tree was removed, the stump and roots remain, the sidewalk is lifted and a large hole has formed beneath it creating a danger to children, pets, and kupuna. Chair Radke acknowledged the concerns of both students and thanked the students for providing specific addresses.

Watermain Break and Aging Infrastructure – Ikeanani Drive [1:05:10]: Resident Sean Oʻconnor described a water main break on April 27th on Ikeanani Drive that flooded five properties, including his own. This was the second break at that location in his tenure there. He raised concerns about: (1) aging infrastructure with no budget for upgrades under the Koʻolaupoko Sustainable Communities Plan (which limits growth projections); (2) temporary city fixes that are not being permanently resolved; (3) clogged city storm drains in the area; and (4) an ongoing landslide at a blind corner on Kāneʻohe Bay Drive near the Mōkapu intersection, ongoing for nearly two months. Chair Radke directed him to submit written testimony through the Neighborhood Commission website for routing to the appropriate government entities. Oʻconnor requested a maintenance schedule for city- and state-owned drainage infrastructure, with reference to a similar request made in Kailua.

Kāneʻohe Christmas Parade – [1:12:14]: Janice Lai requested that the board’s approval of the Kāneʻohe Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 5, 2026 be formally documented in the printed meeting minutes, as required by the City for a road closure permit. Chair Radke confirmed the board has previously blessed the parade on multiple occasions. Separately, Lai raised concerns about receiving a notice that banners at Grace Mortuary could not be displayed for more than one week under the sign ordinance. Representative Matayoshi cited Revised Ordinance of Honolulu Chapter 21-7.20: special events banners are limited to seven consecutive days, but non-commercial banners on non-commercial property have no limit. The consensus was that a non-commercial parade banner on private residential or nonprofit-affiliated property is likely constitutionally protected speech, though Grace Mortuary may have different considerations as a business.
Nā Mele Koʻolaupoko Announcement – [1:17:00]: Chair Radke announced a biannual song competition to be held on September 5, 2026 at Windward Mall Center Court. Five categories: professional, amateur, ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi adult, Hawaiʻi youth, and English youth. Recording and entry deadline: August 5, 2026. Sponsored by Kamehameha Schools, Windward Mall, Kola Foundation, Koʻolaupoko Hawaiian Civic Club, and others. Flyers were left at the registration table.
• Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nrLcQ2m0ylrIUBw0zoci8eMKF19ys-R2/view?usp=drive_link
• Entry Form: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-SIeMtaXGqVinEN2o8o6mTBJ03FZBSqv/view?usp=drive_link

Coffee With a Cop – [1:10:49]: Windward Neighborhood Security Watch Coordinator Lisa Uyesato announced a “Coffee With a Cop” event on Thursday June 18, 2026, 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Starbucks Enchanted Lakes. This is an opportunity for community members to meet local officers, share concerns, or simply chat.
• Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RkOWLX_acCYn_ykNJtqH05-zY5hQ0lsy/view?usp=drive_link

VI. ELECTED OFFICIALS – [1:18:31]

U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda – [1:18:37]: Tolua Samifua for Representative Tokudaʻs office was present online but had to leave before the elected officials section. Chair Radke noted that at written update was submitted to the board.

Governor Green’s Representative – [1:19:02]: Diane Ako reported the following: Governor’s Monthly Newsletter: Ke Ala Hou, A New Path Forward is available online; sign-up link shared with the board. Public Land Maintenance (Follow-up for Member Lam): No single government entity owns all public lands — ownership varies between city, state, federal government, and private owners. Stream banks are maintained by the owner or under a joint maintenance agreement. Contact information for reporting public right-of-way and roadside maintenance issues will be posted on the Kāneʻohe Neighborhood Board website. Kāneʻohe Public Library Update (Follow-up for Member Sakamoto): The library reopened for limited services starting Sunday, May 17, 2026, with hours returning to the previous schedule. Outstanding issues: (1) funding is in process for steel plates over a drainage swell in the parking lot, with construction completion estimated by end of July if funding is approved by June; (2) an odor in the lower-level meeting room has not yet been identified by DAGS’s construction team; the rest of the library is odor-free. Kiʻonaʻole Road Update (Follow-up for Chair Radke): HDOT issued a press release on May 21, 2026 noting continued full closure and detour for culvert and drainage repairs. Unforeseen utilities discovered in the work area have caused delays. Utility relocation is pending approval and expected to begin the week of May 26, 2026 (note: Memorial Day falls on May 25th). Work hours: 6:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. daytime; 5:00 p.m.–3:30 a.m. nighttime, Monday through Sunday. Further details and web links available on the neighborhood board’s website.

Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [1:22:45]: Andy Kawano appearing online, recovering from outpatient surgery reported the following: Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Gardens Detour: Handy van services must continue using the back road for pickup and drop-off due to ongoing storm repair work from the Kona Low damage. This echoed the update from the Governor’s representative. City Budget: Third reading of the operating and CIP budget scheduled for Wednesday, June 3, 2026. Community members are invited to participate. Agenda to be posted by May 28, 2026. Honolulu Zoo AZA Accreditation: The Honolulu Zoo received its AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) accreditation — a distinction achieved by only approximately 10% of licensed animal exhibitors. The Mayor and staff are very proud of this achievement.

Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina – [1:26:07]: Councilmember Kiaʻāina reported that the Department of Emergency Management is critically understaffed at roughly 15 employees; eight positions were added in the first budget round, and she is working to add five more at the June 3rd hearing, acknowledging the need for the city and state to strengthen community support amid a changing federal funding landscape. She expressed support for exploring an Oʻahu-specific aquarium collection ban following the failure of the state bill, and noted ongoing discussions with Member Bryant on the matter. Legislation authorized by Senator Chris Lee will reduce the speed limit from 30 to 20 mph near King Intermediate School — the first such school zone reduction on the Windward side — and Bill 34 updating the City’s National Flood Insurance Program ordinance is on track for final passage on June 3rd. Following a public safety committee meeting, Councilmember Kiaʻāina met with the Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization and the Kailua Neighborhood Board Disaster Preparedness Subcommittee, with an ARC town hall planned for August 2026, and she invited the Kāneʻohe NB Emergency Preparedness Committee to collaborate on wildfire protection planning and FireWise programs. The city’s climate change office has released a draft Oʻahu Food Systems Plan, with community feedback welcome through June 30, 2026, and the plan will be shared in the board’s Google Drive.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [1:29:49]:
1. Pre-Disaster vs. Emergency Management Distinction: Member Fleitell clarified that pre-disaster planning and mitigation is not the same as emergency management, and that DEM has explicitly stated that pre-disaster work is outside their mission. He urged the need for an additional entity or function to address this gap. Councilmember Kiaʻāina acknowledged the capacity problem at DEM and stated her focus is on bolstering resources and community connectivity — not excusing DEM’s limitations but improving their interface with communities.
2. Neighborhood Board Authority in Maintenance Coordination: Member Lam questioned what authority neighborhood boards have to direct government agencies on maintenance tasks and get responses. He asked whether a statutory mechanism is needed to give boards a meaningful voice in infrastructure maintenance and coordination between agencies. Councilmember Kiaʻāina acknowledged this as an important challenge and engaged in further discussion.
3. ADA and Accessibility Legislation: Member Sakamoto raised multiple accessibility concerns: (1) urged the Governor to sign HB 1894 (Braille Literacy Bill) and SB 2852 (Title 380 bill for website and self-serve checkout accessibility); (2) expressed disappointment that the DOJ extended the Title II compliance deadline for counties and states to April 2027 rather than April 24, 2026; (3) flagged a dangerous deteriorated pedestrian bridge on Keneke Street raised with Councilmember Kiaʻāina’s office since August 2024 that has not been repaired; (4) reported that a blind woman was forced to walk in the street along Kamehameha Highway on a Tuesday when the sidewalk was closed for construction without ADA accommodations or assistance; and (5) noted the City’s 311 app is not accessible to blind users, confirmed by a technology professional who was unable to navigate it.
4. Clean Water and Natural Lands Fund: Member Pilien asked how the community and board can support getting more projects funded through the City’s Clean Water and Natural Lands Fund in Kāneʻohe. Councilmember Kiaʻāina explained the program receives approximately $9 million per year from a percentage of real property tax and works through nonprofit facilitators such as the Trust for Public Land and Hawaiʻi Islands Land Trust. She cited a current $21 million, 170-acre North Shore agricultural land project as an example of the complexity involved, with multiple stakeholders including DOD, DLNR, and OHA. Councilmember Kiaʻāina pledged to improve outreach and offered to connect Member Pilien with administrators and facilitators. She suggested hosting a dedicated workshop at the community college for nonprofit organizations interested in accessing the approximately $50 million available for land acquisition.

Senator Jarrett Keohokalole – [1:44:20]: No representative present.

Senator Brenton Awa – [1:44:33]: Elizabeth Tavake reported the following: 2026 Legislative Session Summary: The session concluded with 268 bills passed and sent to the Governor. As of tonight, 24 have been signed into law. Bills Signed Today: Governor Green signed four new bills: (1) tax relief for low- and middle-income families while protecting SNAP and healthcare; (2) emergency food and health coverage for residents impacted by federal funding changes; (3) lowering the minimum age for inter-island commercial drivers from 19 to 18 with training safeguards; (4) improving oversight of Hawaiʻi’s port pilot system. SB 2471 – Campaign Finance Reform: A major bill prohibiting corporate political spending in Hawaiʻi, strongly supported by Senator Awa. SB 3025 – Medical Debt Forgiveness Program: Would establish a Hawaiʻi medical debt forgiveness program for qualifying residents. Currently awaiting Governor action; July 15, 2026 deadline for signature, lapse, or veto. Community Initiatives: Senator Awa propagated 67 ulu trees in Kahaluʻu through air layering for distribution to community members interested in growing food at home and increasing local food sustainability.

Representative Lisa Kitagawa – [1:47:22]: Representative Kitagawa reported the following: HB 2361 – Kāneʻohe Bay Regional Council: The bill passed. DLNR is now required to provide administrative support to the council. DLNR will no longer serve as chairperson; the chair will be elected from among the board members, a change supported by the community. CIP Funding for Windward Schools: Schools receiving funding include: Castle High School (deferred maintenance plus over $6 million for Title IX softball field improvements); Ben Parker, Haʻikū, King Intermediate, ʻĀhuimanu, Kahaluʻu, and others. GIA (Grant-in-Aid) Funding for Community Organizations: Pacific American Foundation (wāhūloa/local eels program), Hina Malu, I’m a Bright Kid Foundation (community theater by Castle alumni), and others. End-of-Year Legislative Mailer: Constituents will receive an annual session update mailer in the coming weeks. Available at repkitagawa.com for others. Emergency Preparedness Working Group: Representative Kitagawa shared that she met with Members Carstensen and Fleitell at the Emergency Preparedness Fair and discussed a working group bringing together the state, city, community organizations, and others to advance emergency preparedness legislation. She encouraged the board to reach out if interested, noting that community testimony and presence at the legislature is essential for bills to pass.

Representative Scot Matayoshi – [1:50:47]: Rep. Matayoshi reported that Kāneʻohe Public Library has largely reopened following a soft opening, with all services available except the lower-level meeting room due to an unknown odor; after two years of closure and delays involving electrical issues, off-gassing, and ADA parking, HPD authorized two temporary ADA stalls from their adjacent property, enabling the reopening, with the library’s own stalls expected to be restored by July 2026. Regarding utility poles on Kāneʻohe Bay Drive flagged by Castle High School students, Rep. Matayoshi contacted HECO and learned the poles belong to Hawaiian Telecom, and immediately texted their government relations representative to expedite repairs. Legislative highlights include three workers’ compensation bills to speed up medical care, a landmark dark money ban making Hawaiʻi the first state to prohibit unlimited corporate campaign donations, a mail fraud disclaimer bill, and a cryptocurrency kiosk purchase ban making Hawaiʻi second in the nation after Indiana. SB 2553, improving disability access to state and county public websites, also passed with strong advocacy from Member Sakamoto. Rep. Matayoshi reminded all interested participants to submit their Kāneʻohe Christmas Parade applications on time. An E-Waste Recycle Drive is scheduled for June 20, 2026, from 9:00–11:00 a.m. at Castle High School, accepting flat-screen TVs, computers, cell phones, laptops, and lead-acid batteries, with junk car tow service available by calling 808-291-6151 in advance, and Hi-Five collections accepted for Castle High School clubs.

Representative Mike Lee – [1:57:10]: Rep. Matayoshi reported: Invasive Majano Anemone Removal Funding: Next week, an additional round of funding will be released to remove invasive Majano anemone from Kāneʻohe Bay. Representative Lee sends his apologies for not attending due to a school event for his children.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – [1:57:48]:
1. E-Waste Tow Service – Tire Requirement: Member Bryant asked whether vehicles being towed need to have their tires intact. Representative Matayoshi was unsure about flatbed availability and directed her to call 808-291-6151 for details.
2. Long-Term Care Legislation: Member Sakamoto referenced a May 18 Star Advertiser article on long-term care and asked about HB 1808 and HB 1852 (Executive Office on Aging studies for dementia and Alzheimer’s). Representative Matayoshi noted he believed a working group may be formed during the interim and offered to have his office follow up. Representative Kitagawa added that HB 1853 (Hanai Memory Network) did pass, providing $3 million to open centers for dementia diagnosis, treatment, and family referral services.
3. E-Bike Legislation: Member Sakamoto asked about the e-bike bill. Representative Matayoshi confirmed that the concept from his bill was incorporated into Representative Kila’s e-bike bill, which passed. Level 3 e-bikes are now illegal on public roads. Member Sakamoto also requested future legislation requiring audible signals on electric vehicles at low speeds for the safety of blind pedestrians. Representative Matayoshi expressed support.
4. Kāneʻohe Bay Drive Repaving: Chair Radke asked about the deteriorated condition of Kāneʻohe Bay Drive. Representative Matayoshi noted the area is likely City jurisdiction and said he would look into it. He mentioned that Keaʻahala Road is among the first Kāneʻohe town repaving projects under a newly selected contractor, with work expected throughout 2026–2027. Sidewalk repaving currently only includes Kailua.
5. HB 1875 – Gender-Affirming Care: Member Sakamoto asked about HB 1875. Representative Kitagawa clarified the bill passed and is a shield bill protecting healthcare providers from out-of-state attorney general lawsuits for providing gender-affirming care with parental consent — it does not override parental consent. Member Sakamoto confirmed this aligned with his understanding.
6. SB 2151 – Governor’s Emergency Order Authority: Member Sakamoto asked about SB 2151. Representative Kitagawa confirmed the bill did not pass, noting a notice of disagreement from the Senate.
7. Handicapped Parking Stall Access: Member Sakamoto raised the concern of insufficient driver-side clearance in handicapped parking stalls. Representative Matayoshi confirmed he is already looking into the issue and noted his literal next-door neighbor has been advocating for the same. He posted a bill concept this session that did not advance but plans to continue pursuing it.

VII. BOARD BUSINESS – [2:07:47]
Approval of April 2026 Meeting Minutes – [2:07:54]: Member Sakamoto MOVED and Member Pilien SECONDED to approve the April 2026 meeting minutes as written – [2:08:07]. The motion was ADOPTED; 11-0-0. (Aye: Radke, Sakamoto, Quitevas, Fleitell, Hewett, Carstensen, Bryant, Toma, Pilien, Lam, and Yamashiro; Nay: None; Abstain: None.) – [2:08:18].

VIII. COMMITTEE REPORTS/ASSIGNMENTS – [2:08:20] – Chair Radke defferred these items to the next meeting due to time constraints. There were no objections.

IX. ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:08:35]
Next Regular Board Meeting: Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. at WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE – HALE ʻĀKOAKOA – or using the virtual login credentials listed at the top of page 1 of this document.

X. ADJOURNMENT – [2:08:50]
The meeting was adjourned at 8:39 p.m.

Submitted by: Chelsea Smith, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, NCO
Finalized by:

To view agenda and minutes, visit our board website.

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