KAILUA NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 31

RESCHEDULED REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2026, 7:00 pm
IN-PERSON AT THE KAILUA DISTRICT PARK MULTIPURPOSE ROOM,
21 SOUTH KAINALU DRIVE, KAILUA
AND ALSO VIA VIDEO TELECONFERENCE (WEBEX)

NOTE: The Kailua District Park closes at 10 pm and the meeting must end not later than 9:55 pm.
Remote Access Information:
Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=m48bb4312a7cdd4ab5a22e9a7242b1fc2
Meeting number (access code): 2493 665 6544
Meeting password: NB31 (6231 from phones and video systems)
Join by Video System: Dial 24926967184@cchnl.webex.com and enter meeting number.
Join by Phone: (408) 418-9388 (long distance call) and enter meeting number.
If anyone has any problems connecting to this WEBEX link, please contact our Neighborhood Assistant, Melissa Urubio, for assistance at: melissa.urubio@honolulu.gov

Rules of Speaking: Anyone wishing to speak remotely should click the “raise hand” icon. When recognized by the Chair, address comments to the Chair. Remarks should not exceed 3 minutes. The “chat” box can also be used to ask simple questions.

Olelo delayed Broadcasts: OLELO Channel 49 on the 3rd Saturday of the month at 6 pm and the 4th Sunday of the month at 12 noon (Subject to change).
Visit: www.honolulu.gov/nco and www.facebook.com/KailuaNeighborhoodBoard for more information from the Kailua Neighborhood Board

Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1t7pXEx-Xn6l_ZVmmmoTvqF84EifuBbGn
Neighborhood Board Meeting Recordings: Typically posted the day after the meeting and can be found at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1DZJTKor6TTNYiqx5U-P2w

I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL: Chair Bill Hicks

II. ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. Committee Meetings. All Kailua NB Committee and Subcommittee Meetings will meet at the Kailua District Park until further notice due to roof repairs at the Boettcher Estate house at Kalama Beach Park. Meetings may take place at the District Meeting Room, Multipurpose Room, or Arts and Crafts Room, so if a meeting is not in the advertised room, please check with park staff as it may have been shifted to a different room. We regret any inconvenience this may cause.
B. Comments on the FAA Hawaii Airspace Modernization Project. The Federal Aviation Administration’s Hawai’i Airspace Modernization Project (HAMP) public comment period has been extended to March 15, 2026. Comments may be submitted at https://tinyurl.com/yk35hh6h and information is available at https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/community_engagement/community-engagement-hawaii

III. HPD, HFD, and OCEAN SAFETY REPORTS – Three (3) minutes each
A. Honolulu Police Department representative (usually Officer Jarret Atkins)
B. Honolulu Fire Department representative
C. Honolulu Ocean Safety Department representative (usually Lieutenant Tristian Fabro)

IV. BOARD BUSINESS: COMMITTEE MOTIONS
A. The Kailua Neighborhood Board supports extending the Kalama Beach Park parking lot hours to a 7 pm closure time year-round. This will help prevent premature car lock-ins and bring the parking lot into alignment with other beach parks across the County. Kalama Beach Park is currently the only Beach Park parking lot in the county that closes at 6 pm. (Parks and Recreation Committee motion.)
B. Motion to Support Establishing an Empty Homes Tax in Honolulu
WHEREAS, the Kailua Neighborhood Board serves as a citizens’ advisory board dedicated to enhancing effective citizen participation in government decisions, as outlined in the City and County of Honolulu’s Neighborhood Plan of 2008; and
WHEREAS, Hawaiʻi is experiencing a long-standing affordable housing crisis; and
WHEREAS, as a result of this housing crisis, Hawai‘i continues to experience out-migration, with many residents leaving Hawaiʻi due to the high cost of living and the lack of affordable housing; and
WHEREAS, despite our elected officials’ many attempts at addressing our long-standing housing crisis, most indicators suggest our housing crisis is getting worse, not better; and
WHEREAS, Governor Josh Green stated in his 2024 State of the State address that “building alone won’t solve our housing crisis – we need to find new ways to make buying or renting a home more affordable in Hawai‘i” and “a challenge of this magnitude requires multiple solutions – there is no silver bullet;” and
WHEREAS, in line with Governor Josh Green’s statements, many housing experts acknowledge that unaffordable housing/rental prices are caused by both (1) limited supply (driven by existing barriers to build) and (2) excessive demand (exacerbated by outside/global demand) and that any solution will require multiple parts that address both factors; and
WHEREAS, despite the pressing need from local residents for housing, the Hawai‘i Housing Factbook 2025 noted that demand for housing from out-of-state buyers continues to account for a significant number of housing transactions; and
WHEREAS, in addition to this significant demand from out-of-state buyers, it is further believed that thousands of existing units remain vacant on O‘ahu, with a significant portion being owned by outside investors; and
WHEREAS, Honolulu City Council Bill 46 (2024) seeks to address the impact these vacant housing units have on our unaffordable housing/rental prices (as one potential component of a multi-part solution to our housing crisis) by establishing an empty homes tax on O‘ahu; and
WHEREAS, over recent years, there has been broad public support among O‘ahu residents for the concept of establishing an empty homes tax in Honolulu; and
WHEREAS, in line with this broad public support, the City Council has made multiple attempts in the past five years to adopt an empty homes tax (suggesting continued support from City Council leadership to explore such an initiative); and
WHEREAS, an empty homes tax being proposed in Bill 46 (2024), could have the following impacts:
(1) Discouraging out-of-state demand and investor speculation on our housing units (including the practice of purchasing housing units and keeping them vacant while taking advantage of low property taxes and high appreciation potential)
(2) Returning vacant units back to the residential/rental housing market by incentivizing property owners to rent or sell to local residents
(3) Generating revenue for local governments to support the construction of affordable housing; and
WHEREAS, the current version of Bill 46 (2024) includes various exemptions to mitigate potential harm to local residents who may have a valid reason for owning additional housing units they need to leave vacant; and
WHEREAS, as of the current date, seven (7) O‘ahu Neighborhood Boards have adopted a resolution in support of Bill 46 (2024) to establish an empty homes tax in Honolulu, including:
1. Downtown-Chinatown Neighborhood Board No. 13 (September 2024)
2. Makakilo/Kapolei/Honokai Hale Neighborhood Board No. 34 (October 2024)
3. Ala Moana/Kaka‘ako Neighborhood Board No. 11 (November 2024)
4. Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 (November 2024)
5. McCully-Mōʻiliʻili Neighborhood Board No. 8 (March 2025)
6. Makiki/Lower Punchbowl/Tantalus Neighborhood Board No. 10 (April 2025)
7. Mililani Mauka/Launani Valley Neighborhood Board No. 35 (September 2025); and
WHEREAS, while Bill 46 (2024) will not, by itself, resolve the housing crisis, it represents a crucial part of a broader strategy to address our affordable housing crisis; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED that the Kailua Neighborhood Board stands in solidarity with other O‘ahu Neighborhood Boards that have adopted resolutions in support of establishing an empty homes tax in Honolulu; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Kailua Neighborhood Board supports the concepts contained within the current draft of Bill 46 (2024); and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, the Honolulu City Council Members, and all Neighborhood Boards.
(Planning, Zoning, and Environment Committee motion.)

V. PRESENTATIONS – Ten (10) minutes each
A. Kawailoa Youth and Family Wellness Center (KYFWC), previously Hawaii Youth Correctional Facility (HYCF), Campus Master Plan Brief by Ty Shiramizu, Bowers + Kubota Consulting

VI. LOCAL AGENCY REPORTS – Three (3) minutes each
A. Board of Water Supply representative (usually Dani Ornellas)
B. Marine Corps Base Hawaii representative (usually Kristi Kaluhiwa)

VII. RESIDENT AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS – Three (3) minutes each

VIII. MAYOR AND GOVERNOR REPORTS
A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s representative (usually Jim Ireland or Shayne Enright)
B. Governor Josh Green’s representative (usually Erin Conner-Jerome)

IX. ELECTED OFFICIAL REPORTS – Three (3) minutes each (The order is randomly selected.)
A. Councilmember Esther Kia’aina
B. Senator Chris Lee
C. Senator Jarrett Keohokalole
D. Representative Scot Matayoshi
E. Representative Lisa Marten
F. Representative Mike Lee
G. Tolua Samifua, on behalf of U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda

X. REPORTS FROM MEMBERS WHO ATTENDED OTHER MEETINGS

XI. BOARD BUSINESS: INDIVIDUAL MOTIONS
A. Motion requesting the Department of Transportation Services (DTS) begin implementation of the Lanikai Transportation Management Plan: At the December 4, 2026 Kailua Neighborhood Board meeting Department of Transportation Services (DTS) explained their implementation plan for the Lanikai Transportation Management Plan. Using FY27 funding (starts July 1, 2026), DTS would install “No Parking Any Time” signage on ‘A’alapapa and Mokulua Drives and make all cross streets one-way with marked parking spaces on the pavement, which would also involve widening some of the streets as necessary to achieve a minimum width of 18 feet. With the cross streets prepared, DTS would also simultaneously implement “No parking 10 am until 4 pm” signs in Lanikai; DTS will not implement no parking 10 am until 4 pm signs until parking is converted from unimproved sidewalks to on pavement. DTS offered as an alternative installing “No Parking Any Time” signage on ‘A’alapapa and Mokulua Drives as soon as possible using FY26 funding (but without no parking 10 am to 4 pm), in advance of the other measures in FY27. Support for all of the other aspects of the Lanikai Transportation Management Plan (doubling TheBus #671 frequency 10 am to 4 pm, designating a few unloading/loading spaces, installing bike racks, etc.) was reiterated. DTS asked if there is a community preference between implementing all of the major measures at once (late 2026 or early 2027) or installing the no parking signs on the loop as soon as possible while waiting for the other measures. The Kailua Neighborhood Board hereby requests that DTS install the NO PARKING ANY TIME signage on the Lanikai ”loop” streets ʻAʻalapapa and Mokulua. This is currently a dangerous roadway and a continuing safety concern for residents.
B. The Kailua Neighborhood Board shall participate in the annual Kailua Town Party on Sunday, April 26, 2026, 11 am – 4 pm. The KNB will conduct a public survey at the event, create educational materials, and utilize outreach materials including a board banner and board shirts. The total budget will be under $500.

XII. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes

XIII. THREE MEETING ABSENCES

XIV. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Executive Committee – Chair, Bill Hicks
B. Public Safety, Public Health, and Civil Defense (PSPHCD) – Chair, Jeremy Treskon
C. Kailua Water Quality PHPSCD Subcommittee – Chair, Levani Lipton
D. Homelessness in Kailua PSPHCD Subcommittee — Chair: Levani Lipton
E. Disaster Preparedness PSPHCD Subcommittee – Chair: David Laeha
F. Transportation and Public Works – Chair: Jade Lau
G. Parks and Recreation – Chair, Evan Weber
H. Planning, Zoning & Environment (PZ&E) – Chair, Donna Wong
I. Community and Government Engagement – Chair, Gary Weller

XV. COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP MOTIONS: Changes to committee membership

XVI. CHAIR’S REPORT: Committee agendas for March 2026 are due to the Chair by Sunday, February 22, 2026.

XVII. 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 email nbtestimony@honolulu.gov, 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
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2025 at 7:00 P.M.
KAILUA DISTRICT PARK MULTIPURPOSE ROOM, 21 SOUTH KAINALU DRIVE, KAILUA
AND VIA WEBEX TELECONFERENCING

Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9D9-9aulJoA

Reports & other meeting materials can be found at:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1t7pXEx-Xn6l_ZVmmmoTvqF84EifuBbGn

I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL – [0:00:28]: Chair Hicks called the Kailua Neighborhood Board No. 31 meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. Quorum was established with 14 members present. Note: This 19-member Board requires ten 10 members to establish quorum and to take official board action.

Members present: Bruce Andrews, Jennifer Barra, Bill Hicks, Anna Malia Kia, David Laeha, Jade Lau, Levani Lipton, Max Markrich, Kalama Souza, Malie Thoemmes, Jeremy Treskon, Evan Weber, Gary Weller, Donna Wong, Kate Righter (7:04 p.m), Kelli Ann Kobayashi (7:36 p.m.), and Jon White (8:52 p.m.).

Members Absent: Emily Andrade, Steven Trecker
Guests: Lieutenant Akagi, Sergeant Michael Krekel, Officer Zelinskiy (Honolulu Police Department); Captain Alan Hackbarth (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Chelsea Bizik (Honolulu Ocean Safety); Danielle Ornellas (Board of Water Supply); Jon Nouchi and Kelly Akasaki (Department of Transportation Services); Carah Kadota Ito (Bowers & Kubota); Kristi Kaluhiwa (Marine Corps Base Hawaii); Erin Conner-Jerome (Governor’s Office); Councilmember Esther Kia‘āina and Gloria Palma; Representative Lisa Marten; Senator Jarrett Keohokalole; Aria Juliet – HAPA, Bob Moeng, Navin Tagore, Joe Cooper, Ken Adams, Kina’Eha students and staff members; Jess Eballar, Andrea Kia, Thomas Roberts, Ted Grisell, Leanne Gillespie, T. Kobayashi, Harola Inouye, Thomas G., Steve Frederick, Linda Nikcevich, Eileen Hilton, L. Rossoff, C. Harms, Morgan Waterman, R. Torres, Tom Cestake, Mike Groza, Brian Isa, (Residents and Community Members); Melissa Urubio (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible. There were approximately 94 total attendees.

II. ANNOUNCEMENTS – [0:03:50]: Chair Hicks announced that all committees will recess in December 2025 and the Board will recess in January 2026. The next regular Board meeting is on Thursday, February 5, 2026.

Member Righter joined the meeting at 7:04 pm. – 15 members present

III. HPD, HFD, AND OCEAN SAFETY REPORTS – [0:04:36]

A. Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – [0:04:54]: Lieutenant Akagi reported November 2025 statistics: 3 motor vehicle thefts, 7 burglaries, 30 thefts, 5 car break-ins, and 0 robberies. Lieutenant Akagi also shared a safety tip about holiday thefts/scams. He noted that the Honolulu Police Department does not request bail via wire/gift cards and accepts payment only at stations. He also stressed basic home security after several burglaries occurred due to unlocked doors.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:06:40]
1. Burglary Statistics: Member Laeha asked about the two burglaries in the Maunawili area and an increase from two to seven burglaries, requesting details about the types of incidents occurring. Lieutenant Akagi explained that the seven burglaries were not part of an organized spree but rather sporadic incidents, with two resulting from unlocked doors, including one residence burglarized three times (leading to an arrest), while the remaining cases involved the golf course, a neighbor conflict, and a temporary restraining order situation.
2. Lanikai Traffic Counter Inquiry: A resident asked about the results of the traffic counter strips in the Lanikai area. Lieutenant Akagi clarified that the recent road tube traffic counters in Lanikai were likely installed by the Department of Transportation or Department of Transportation Services.

Member Thoemmes left the meeting at 7:07 p.m. – 14 members present
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – [0:09:54]: Captain Hackbarth reported November 2025 statistics: 0 structure fires, 1 wildland brush fire, 0 nuisance alarms, 0 cooking fires, 10 activated alarms, 80 medical calls, 7 motor vehicle collisions, 2 mountain rescues, and 1 ocean rescue. Captain Hackbarth also shared some important fire safety tips regarding Christmas trees. He noted that dried trees, wreaths, and other natural decorations are highly flammable and urged residents to remove them from their homes promptly and consider recycling their trees at a participating green waste center in their area. Regarding the New Year, Captain Hackbarth encouraged everyone to leave fireworks to trained pyrotechnic professionals. He also noted that firecrackers are legal but require a permit to purchase and use and directed residents to visit firesafehonolulu.com for permit information.

Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aWgkb3bx9spIORJ1Bfg4wIWJV7EMoykR/view?usp=drive_link

B. Honolulu Ocean Safety Department – [0:11:46]: Lieutenant Chelsea Bizik reported roughly 80,000 beach visitors in November 2025, about 5,000 preventatives, 750 first aids, about 10,000 public contacts, and 3–6 major rescues (often with jet ski assists). She also noted that there will be increased ATV patrols during the holiday break.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:13:19]
1. Shark Alert Criteria and Aggressive Behavior Indicators: Member Lau inquired about the recent shark alert and the criteria used to classify a shark as aggressive. Lieutenant Bizik clarified that an aggressive shark alert is issued based on specific behavioral indicators, including multiple reports of sharks darting close to shore and exhibiting thrashing behavior as observed and reported by members of the public.
2. Ocean Safety Center Construction Timeline: Resident Bob Moeng inquired about the expected completion date for the Ocean Safety Center located across from the boat ramp. Lieutenant Bizik was unable to provide a specific completion date but indicated that the builder is currently on-site and the project may be finished by late summer next year. Chair Hicks also announced a one-day partial road closure scheduled for sewer installation across the street from the facility.

IV. BOARD BUSINESS: COMMITTEE MOTIONS – [0:17:07]

A. Charter Commission Amendment #148 – [0:17:19]: Councilmember Esther Kia‘āina outlined leveraging the Clean Water and Natural Lands Fund surplus and annual revenues for historic preservation.

[0:20:55] The Board supports renaming the fund to Land, Natural Resources, and Historic Preservation Fund. The motion was ADOPTED; 13-0-1 (Aye: Andrews, Barra, Hicks, Kia, Lau, Lipton, Markrich, Righter, Souza, Treskon, Weber, Weller, Wong; Nay: none; Abstain: Laeha) – [0:22:29]

B. Resolution 25-268 Public Database for Discretionary Permits – [0:22:43]: The Board discussed requesting that the Department of Planning and Permitting create a publicly accessible database of all discretionary permit applications, including Conditional Use Permit (CUP)-Minor and Special Management Area (SMA)-Minor permits. Board members in favor of the motion highlighted the importance of transparency and keeping the public informed. Those who opposed raised concerns about the timing due to ongoing Department of Planning and Permitting system challenges, the undefined scope of the project, and potential privacy issues.

[0:30:42] The Board supports Resolution 25-268 that urges the Department of Planning to provide a public database of all discretionary permit applications, including Conditional Use Permit (CUP)-Minor and Special Management Area Minor Permit (SMA-Minor). The motion WAS NOT ADOPTED; 9-3-2 (Aye: Barra, Hicks, Kia, Laeha, Lau, Lipton, Righter, Weller, Wong; Nay: Andrews, Markrich, Treskon; Abstain: Souza, Weber) – [0:32:31]

C. Kaopa Silt Basin Concern – [0:32:38]: The Board expressed concern that a proposed caretaker residence on the Kaopa Silt Basin conservation property could impede the basin’s sediment-settling function before planned City restoration. The Board discussion included the property’s conservation status, complex ownership, wetland-like conditions, and the need to adhere to best management practices.

Member Kobayashi joined the meeting at 7:36 p.m. – 15 members present

[0:44:17] The Board is very concerned that the construction of a single-family house on this property may impede the Kaopa Silt Basin from fulfilling its intended function. The motion was ADOPTED; 15-0-0 (Aye: Andrews, Barra, Hicks, Kia, Kobayashi, Laeha, Lau, Lipton, Markrich, Righter, Souza, Treskon, Weber, Weller, Wong; Nay: none; Abstain: none) – [0:45:30]

V. LOCAL AGENCY REPORTS – [0:45:39]

A. Board of Water Supply – [0:45:45]: Danielle Ornellas reported that there have been four water main breaks affecting 8-inch mains dating back to the early 1960’s. She issued a caution to residents about utility scams, emphasizing that the utility company does not accept payments through gift cards, wire transfers, or payment applications, and that legitimate calls are only made during business hours between 7:45 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. She also advised residents to verify any suspicious contact by calling 748-5000 directly and to always ask utility workers for official identification and look for marked company vehicles (green and white). Additionally, Danielle Ornellas shared a water conservation tip for the holiday season including turning off the tap while prepping food or scrubbing dishes. Lastly, she informed the community that a start date has not yet been determined for the Kapa’a/Saddleback water tank project.

B. Marine Corps Base Hawai‘i – [0:48:35]: Kristi Kaluhiwa reported that operations have fully resumed following the partial federal shutdown, and the team has been actively participating in community events including a Makahiki ceremony, the Special Olympics Holiday Classic, and upcoming activities such as the Kāne’ohe Christmas Parade, commemoration of the December 7th attack on Pearl Harbor, and visitation of Buddhist monks from Japan. They are also supporting partner organizations’ events, including Paepae o He’eia’s restoration 25th anniversary and Mokapu Elementary’s opening ceremony on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:53:02]
1. Member Wong and Member Weller asked about the mangrove removal project along the H-3 side of the base. Kristi Kaluhiwa mentioned that there is a mangrove removal project on the H3 side of the Marine Corps property. She also noted that the completion is estimated for early February, with contractors cutting mangroves at the base rather than uprooting them, and she will follow up on contractor oversight and the Statement of Work.

VI. PRESENTATION – [0:56:50]

A. Lanikai Transportation Management Plan Implementation – [0:57:04]: Jon Nouchi and Kelly Akasaki presented two implementation paths to improve safety and preserve access. Both involve (1) install “No Parking Anytime” signs around Aalapapa Drive/Mokulua Drive and (2) convert connecting cross-streets to one-way with limited pavement widening to legally stripe parking stalls. They proposed either executing both together after FY27 funds become available (July 2026), taking about 12–15 months from now, or phasing by posting loop signage sooner with recognition that side-street congestion may increase until cross-street upgrades are completed. Chair Hicks referred sequencing to the Transportation & Public Works Committee and encouraged including these additional elements endorsed by the Kailua Neighborhood Board loading/drop-off and bike rack elements where feasible while reiterating support for a Pillbox Trail shuttle/reservation system.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:07:22]
1. Immediate Loop No-Parking for Safety: Multiple residents asked to immediately post “No Parking Anytime” along the Lanikai loop due to daily congestion and safety hazards, suggesting temporary signs could be removed if unworkable. Jon Nouchi and Kelly Akasaki acknowledged community division on sequencing, noting loop-first could worsen side-street crowding until cross-streets are upgraded and reiterated legal/operational considerations.
2. Interim Side-Street Restrictions: Multiple residents proposed interim “No Parking 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.” on cross-streets (like special enforcement holidays) if loop signs go up first. Jon Nouchi and Kelly Akasaki explained they cannot legally sign to allow or restrict parking on unimproved sidewalks and that legal parking requires paved and marked areas. They also noted that special enforcement weekends are administrative accommodations and not a legal template for weekday rules.
3. Bike Lane Restriping & Holiday Enforcement: Residents requested repainting the faded bike lane lines to reduce conflicts and extending special enforcement to four-day holiday weekends (e.g., Thanksgiving, July 4). Jon Nouchi and Kelly Akasaki noted and explained signage standards and resource limits, reiterating overall implementation will hinge on funded execution.
4. Equity and Public Access Beyond Lanikai: Board members and residents raised concerns that reduced loop parking and limited cross-street stalls could restrict access for families from outside Lanikai and shift parking burdens into broader Kailua. Jon Nouchi and Kelly Akasaki emphasized balancing safety with limited legal side-street parking after upgrades and noted loading zones, shuttles, and bus enhancements are beyond the current $500k scope but can be discussed with the Board and Council.

5. Legal Basis for Special Enforcement Weekends: Board members asked whether the City’s holiday barricade enforcement could be extended as an interim weekday tool. Jon Nouchi and Kelly Asaki clarified the weekends were an administrative continuation (not codified law), could be changed or ended by an administration, and that the Department of Transportation Services seeks to adhere to existing ordinances and standard signage to avoid inconsistent enforcement.

Member White joined the meeting at 8:52 p.m. – 16 members present

[1:33:36] Chair Hicks paused the discussion regarding Lanikai Transportation Management Plan Implementation to allow Resident and Community Concerns for students from Kina’Eha (they have to return to their facility by 9:00 p.m.).

VII. RESIDENT AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS – [1:34:10]

1. Youth Testimony Supporting Kinai’Eha Programs: Multiple students from Kinai’Eha provided their testimony regarding the Kawailoa Youth and Family Wellness Center Campus Master Plan. Kinai’Eha serves young adults ages 14-24 who are seeking purpose, empowerment, and direction. They offer programs such as Work Training, the Hale Ka Hana Residential Program, General Educational Development (GED), School Break Internships, and Justice System Navigation and Support. They requested to keep the current programs especially Kinai’Eha in the Master Plan. Vice Chair Lipton recommended to refer the request to the Planning, Zoning, Environment Committee for more in-depth discussion. The Board agreed to add it to the January Committee agenda.

[1:49:39] Chair Hicks continued with the discussion regarding Lanikai Transportation Management Plan Implementation. – [2:20:53]

[2:20:54] Chair Hicks continued with Resident and Community Concerns.

2. Health and Environmental Concerns Over Mangrove Removal – [2:21:15]: A resident brought up concerns regarding the mangrove removal operations at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, reporting that they were experiencing strong odors and health-related concerns from their location downwind of the work site. Kristi Kaluhiwa noted that the Lieutenant has been in communication with a resident named Paul. Chair Hicks referred the matter to the Planning, Zoning, and Environmental (PZ&E) Committee and requested that representatives from Marine Corps Base Hawaii attend the meeting in January 2026 to present the scope of work and provide details about their procedures.
3. Lanikai Triathlon – [2:31:22]: The organizer of the Lanikai Triathlon announced that the triathlon which includes a 500-meter swim, 10 miles bike and 4 miles run is scheduled for Sunday, April 19, 2026.

Member Kobayashi and Member Righter left the meeting at 9:23 p.m. – 14 members present

VIII. MAYOR AND GOVERNOR REPORTS – [2:33:58]

A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [2:34:05]: No representative present.

Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xXjAXmq_EWwYqgU85UexDdm9AwZkQt0f/view?usp=drive_link

B. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – [2:34:19]: Erin Conner-Jerome reported that H-3 signage cleaning is underway, and a new traffic signal is being installed at the Uluoa Street/Ulumanu Drive, which will require day closures. Following the signal installation, repaving work will be conducted, with the entire project estimated to be completed in January 2026. She also noted that a damaged mast arm base is currently being assessed for repairs.

Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/19zE9-iV4JjuFDMDypYN2MQ9YvmUUQs4H/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:36:36]
1. Road Upkeep and Olomana Fire Station #39 Safety Beacons: Member Weller brought up concerns on two matters: the mowing and maintenance responsibilities for state and city road segments, and the restoration of an inoperative amber light warning beacons near the Olomana Fire Station #39 on Kalanianaole Highway, which are needed to protect emergency vehicle egress. Chair Hicks asked for updated information to be provided at the next meeting.

IX. ELECTED OFFICIAL REPORTS – [2:39:12]

A. Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina – [2:39:13]: Councilmember Kia‘āina thanked the Board for supporting preservation funding, shared Ka‘elepulu Stormwater top-8 projects (kaelepulustormwater.org) and coordination with the Board subcommittee, discussed balancing contractor staging and archaeological survey at the Municipal Parking Lot, and summarized Bill 63 CD1-2025 to incentivize Residential A owners to rent long-term (≤100% Area Median Income) at a lower tax rate to expand inventory and help local families.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:45:06]
1. Bill 63 CD1: Member Wong asked about Bill 63 CD1. Councilmember Kia‘āina explained that she amended the current law and took off all the bureaucratic red tape and penalties.
2. Parking Challenges at Municipal Parking Lot: Member Weller brought up parking lot congestion issues, noting that the area is extremely busy with numerous delivery trucks serving the building and medical facility. Councilmember Kia‘āina explained that employees had been taking up parking spaces. Working with the Department of Parks and Recreation and community policing, they coordinated a solution allowing employees to park on unimproved sidewalks instead, freeing up the main parking lot for community members.

Member Souza left the meeting at 9:43 p.m. – 13 members present

B. Representative Mike Lee – [2:46:55]: No representative present.

C. Representative Scott Matayoshi – [2:47:02]: No representative present.

D. Representative Lisa Marten – [2:47:03]: Representative Lisa Marten highlighted Windward shelter expansions (Hui Mahi‘aina and Waimānalo Emergency Shelter), a completed Maui Kauhale with 64 units, and promoted www.findhelp.org for assistance and programs.

E. Senator Jarrett Keohokalole – [2:50:38]: Senator Jarrett Keohokalole congratulated Kailua High School football team (state champions), previewed a tight 2026 fiscal outlook, and discussed expanded access to hurricane insurance via the Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund with potential tweaks for townhouses and other community associations.

F. Senator Chris Lee – [2:54:23]: No representative present.

G. Tolua Samifua, on behalf of U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda – [2:54:31]: No representative present.

X. REPORTS FROM MEMBERS WHO ATTENDED OTHER MEETINGS – [2:54:37]: Deferred due to time constraints.

XI. PRESENTATIONS – [2:54:45]: The Kawailoa Youth & Family Wellness Center and Oahuʻs Exceptional Tree Program presentations were deferred due to time constraints.

XII. BOARD BUSINESS: INDIVIDUAL MOTIONS – [2:55:07]

A. Lani Huli Elderly Apartments – Reserved Resident Parking – [2:55:27]: The Board is concerned that the number of reserved resident parking spaces set aside in the Lani Huli Elderly Apartments parking structure is inadequate and a hardship exists when many senior residents must continually feed a parking meter throughout the day to simply park where they live, whereas other residents do not.

[2:57:15] Member Lau MOVED and Member Markrich SECONDED to urge the Department of Transportation Services to adjust the number of parking spaces set aside for reserved resident parking in the Lani Huli parking structure to accomodate residents on the waiting list. The motion was ADOPTED; 10-0-3 (Aye: Barra, Hicks, Kia, Lau, Lipton, Markrich, Treskon, Weber, Weller, Wong; Nay: none; Abstain: Andrews, Laeha, White) – [2:58:39]

B. Legislative Investigation of Alleged $35,000 Cash Payment – [2:58:56]: Member Wong urged the Legislature to investigate the allegation of an unknown Hawai’i Legislator accepting $35,000 in Cash.

[2:59:27] Member Wong MOVED and Member Weller SECONDED that the Board respectfully urges the Hawai‘i State Legislature – pursuant to Senate Rule 67, House Rule 46, and the authority granted under HRS §21-3 – to immediately convene an investigative committee vested with subpoena and contempt powers to (1) hold public hearings to investigate the circumstances surrounding this alleged transaction, (2) determine whether any state law or ethical rule was violated, (3) recommend appropriate legislative reforms, and (4) refer any findings to the Hawai‘i Attorney General or other relevant state entities as warranted. The motion was ADOPTED; 13-0-0 (Aye: Andrews, Barra, Hicks, Kia, Laeha, Lau, Lipton, Markrich, Treskon, Weber, Weller, White, Wong; Nay: none; Abstain: none) – [3:01:21]

XIII. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – [3:01:28]: The minutes of the Thursday, November 6, 2025, regular meeting were approved as written.

XIV. COMMITTEE REPORTS – [3:01:35]: Chair Hicks noted that the Committee reports stand as published.

XV. COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP MOTIONS – [3:01:41]: Item deferred.

XVI. CHAIR’S REPORT – [3:01:42]: Chair Hicks announced that the Committee agendas for January 2026 are due to the Chair by Sunday, December 21, 2025.

XVII. ADJOURNMENT – [3:01:50]: The meeting was adjourned at 10:03 p.m.

Submitted by: Melissa Urubio, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Robert Whitsell, Deputy
Finalized by: Bill Hicks, Chairman, Kailua Neighborhood Board

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.