KAILUA NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 31

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2025, 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.

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.
Ōlelo delayed Broadcasts: ŌLELO 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. Kaʻelepulu Stormwater Town Hall. A Town Hall will be held on Wednesday, October 22nd, at 6 p.m. at Kailua Intermediate School. Hosted by Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina and the City’s Department of Facility Maintenance, the focus will be to review selected community projects related to the Kaʻelepulu Watershed.
B. Nighttime Roadwork Near Lanikai Entrance. The City has begun nighttime sewer connection work near the entrance to Lanikai for the new Honolulu Ocean Safety Department facility. The construction is expected to begin on Monday, September 29, 2025 and will last an estimated 2-3 weeks, weather permitting and barring unforeseen conditions. Work will take place at night, Sunday through Friday, from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m., excluding holidays. The public is advised to anticipate delays and to use caution when traveling through the area. Motorists should obey all traffic controls, posted signs, and instructions from Special Duty Police Officers. A single lane closure will be in place throughout the duration of the project. Every effort will be made to complete this essential sewer work as quickly and with as little inconvenience to the community as possible. The City appreciates the patience of the community during this process. Questions and comments may be directed to the City and County of Honolulu, Department of Design and Construction, at (808) 768-8400.
C. Keolu Stream Channel Repair Near the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Keolu Drive. The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Design and Construction will begin work on a flood control improvement project in Kailua on Monday, September 22, 2025. The work will involve the construction of a 90-foot-long section of the Keolu Stream Channel wall, backfilling behind the new wall, and installation of erosion control matting as a permanent best management practice. The flood control improvements will address a section of the channel wall that collapsed and improve the stability of the channel wall and the surrounding slope. The project will last approximately 12 months, weather permitting. Work hours will be Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., excluding holidays. The contractor will work in phases to minimize the impact on homeowners, area residents, and the general public. Access to the project site near Keolu Drive and Kanapu‘u Drive will be through The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints parking lot. The public is advised to use caution when traveling through the area and is asked to follow all posted warning signs, barriers, traffic control devices, and/or personnel. Questions and comments may be directed to the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Design and Construction at (808) 768-8400.
D. City to Conduct Archaeological Survey at Kailua Municipal Parking Lot (Cinnamon’s). The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Design and Construction (DDC) will conduct an archaeological survey from Wednesday, October 15, 2025, through Friday, October 31, 2025, weather and conditions permitting. This work is being done in preparation for the upcoming Kailua Municipal Parking Lot improvement project. Should any archaeological findings be encountered, the survey period may be extended as required. The parking lot will remain open to the public during the survey. Work will be carried out in stages at multiple test pits, with each excavation requiring the temporary closure of up to eight stalls at a time. Work hours are weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., excluding weekends and holidays. One of the two vehicle entrances may need to be closed at certain times. Equipment staging will occur on Aulike Street and/or Maluniu Avenue to minimize impacts. Alternate public parking is available across the street at 25 Aulike Street (Lani Huli).

III. HPD and HFD 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 Bill 56 Relating to Special Management Areas because it encourages transparency and public involvement by requiring a presentation on a Special Management Area (SMA) minor permit before the appropriate neighborhood board or community association. The new action is necessary because the 2025 State Legislature increased the monetary criteria for a Minor SMA Permit from $500,000 to $750,000 with inflation adjustments every 5 years. This is significant because a SMA Minor does not require any public notification unlike a SMA Major which requires an applicant to present the SMA Major project to the appropriate neighborhood board or community association.
For reference: HB 732 CD1 signed by Governor Green as Act 125 (2025) and State law HRS 205A Coastal Zone Management Section 22 definitions https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/Vol04_Ch0201-0257/HRS0205A/HRS_0205A-0022.htm
(Planning, Zoning, and Environment Committee motion.)
B. The Kailua Neighborhood Board supports Bill 53 Relating to Affordable Housing because it encourages transparency and public involvement by requiring a presentation on a proposed affordable rental housing project to the appropriate neighborhood board or community association prior to submitting the application to the Department of Planning and Permitting. Public notification prior to approval of a rental housing project is critical to the community understanding of what is proposed in their community. Kailua experienced an “information void” when it was discovered that a 60 feet high affordable rental housing project was proposed at 330 Kuʻulei, the site of a closed gas station. The Koʻolaupoko Sustainable Communities Plan, which residents help create and encompasses the windward coastal and valley areas from Makapuʻu Point to Kaoio Point at the northern end of Kāneʻohe Bay, states that the business district height limit is 40 feet. This 60 feet tall building breaches the existing 40 feet height business zoning limit. Neither the Department of Planning and Permitting nor the developer notified the Kailua Neighborhood Board or adjacent neighbors of the proposed project. The community and Kailua Neighborhood Board scrambled to get information on the project and its impacts but due to lack of information Kailua residents were denied an opportunity to comment on issues such as:
• Impact on the community from future developments since the Koʻolaupoko business district height limit of 40 feet business district height limit has been breached.
• Impacts on traffic
• Adequate sewer capacity
• Adequate on street parking for customers of small businesses
• Number of parking stalls in the new development
• Where will garbage be picked up, on the street or municipal parking lot?
(Planning, Zoning, and Environment Committee motion.)

V. 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).

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

VII. MAYOR AND GOVERNOR REPORTS
A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s representative (usually Jim Ireland or Shayne Enright).
a. Includes an update on the municipal parking lot by DDC/DTS.
B. Governor Josh Green’s representative (usually Erin Conner-Jerome).

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

X. PRESENTATIONS – Ten (10) minutes each
A. Proposed Fishing Regulations from Wailea Point to Kapoho Point by John Foti, Manuiwa O Ka Malanai.
B. Oʻahu’s Exceptional Tree Program by Navin Tagore, Community Forester, Division of Urban Forestry.
C. Kailua Neighborhood Board 2025 Survey Responses by Levani Lipton.

XI. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Thursday, September 4, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes.

XII. 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

XIII. COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP MOTIONS: Changes to committee membership.

XIV. CHAIR’S REPORT: Committee agendas for November 2025 are due to the Chair by Sunday, October 26, 2025.

XV. 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, Hawai’i 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 email nbtestimony@honolulu.gov.

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

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 AT 7:00 PM
KAILUA DISTRICT PARK, MULTIPURPOSE ROOM, 21 SOUTH KAINALU DRIVE, KAILUA, HI 96734
AND VIA WEBEX

Video Recording of Meeting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTNcIwpWP0A&t=8050s

Google Drive Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1t7pXEx-Xn6l_ZVmmmoTvqF84EifuBbGn

I. CALL TO ORDER [0:00:00]: Chair Bill Hicks called the Kailua Neighborhood Board No. 31 meeting to order at 7:04 pm. Quorum was established with 12 members present. Note: this 19-member board requires a majority of 10 members to establish quorum and conduct board business.

Board Members Present: Emily Andrade, Bruce Andrews, Jennifer Barra, Bill Hicks, David Laeha, Jade, Lau, Kate Righter, Kalama Souza, Malie Thoemmes, Steve Trecker, Gary Weller, and Donna Wong, Evan Weber (joined 7:10 pm), and Kelli Ann Kobayashi (joined 7:35 pm),

Board Members Absent: Ana Malia Kia, Levani Lipton, Max Markrich, Jeremy Treskon, and Jon White

Total Guests 44: Officer Jarret Atkins (Honolulu Police Department HPD), Captain Keahi Palaualelo (Honolulu Fire Department HFD), Lieutenant Tristan Fabro (Honolulu Ocean Safety Department HOSD), Ms. Danielle Ornellas (Board of Water Supply BWS), Public Information Officer Shayne Enright (Honolulu Emergency Services Department HESD and Representative from Mayor Blangiardi’s Office), Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina and Ms. Gloria Palma (Honolulu City Council CCL), Ms. Erin Conner-Jerome (Representative from Governor Green’s Office), Office Manager Emi Horii (Representative Lisa Marten), (Representative Jill Tokuda), Doug, Kau, nik, Kahu Ricky, Carol Abe, J. Aki, Savannah Finau, Mark Howland, Christina Jutsuoe, Cindy Meiers, Gareth Rees, Ben Rowe, C. Tadaki, Taylor Urban, Glenn Uyeshiro, Joe Wat, Joe Buck, Leatrice Wolfe, Andreas Helchinger (Residents and Community Members); Brandon Tsark (Neighborhood Commission Office NCO). Note: name may not be included if illegible, inaudible, or otherwise withheld for record-keeping purposes.

II. ANNOUNCEMENTS [0:01:50]:

Kailua Beach Park Hours of Operation [0:03:15]: The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) intends to start a 3-month pilot project in September to modify the operating hours to become 4 am until 12 midnight. This is loosely consistent with recommendations from the Kailua Neighborhood Board in 2023 and 2024. Most Oahu beach parks are currently closed from 10 pm until 5 am. This trial period is intended to explore the impact of nightly closures and DPR will work with the community, Kailua Neighborhood Board, and other City agencies to determine the effectiveness of these nightly closures, and whether they should be implemented permanently. Any closed City park may be traversed at any time, particularly to access the ocean or other natural or culturally significant areas, however it is illegal to remain in a park during closure hours unless otherwise permitted by DPR.

Kailua Emergency Prepardness Fair [0:04:30]: The fair will be held on Saturday September 13, 2025, from 9:00 am until noon, at the Kailua Town Center, 609 Kailua Road (near the Ulta Beauty Store).

Kailua Fall Festival [0:04:30]: The 4th annual festival will take place on Saturday September 27th from 4 pm until 10 pm on Hahani Street. It is a night of award winning musical acts and entertainment (Kapena, Big Every Time (BET), Nesian 9, Irie Love, Lion Dance, hula, and more), 120 vendors, food, drinks, and fun for the entire family! This is a free event to attend and enjoy. Parking & trolley ride is available at Kainalu Elementary School with a presale price of $8 per vehicle or $3 per rider with funds going to Kainalu’s JPO Program. If you’re 21 and want to have a beverage at any of the participating bars, you may purchase the event wristband good for cover charges and a stein. Details at https://kailuaevents.com/

Kailua Watersports Association [0:04:30]: a local nonprofit ocean-based organization that embraces all disciplines of wind sports, is hosting a community fun day featuring a “Kailua Windsports Association Fall Classic 2025” in which up to 75 windsurfers and kiteboarders will tour Kailua Bay. In accordance with DLNR and DPR regulations, the 5-mile course will begin and end at Kailua Beach Park Area A, the area designated for wind sports near the entrance of Kailua Beach Park locally known as “Kite Beach”. The event has a safety plan, two safety escort vessels, liability insurance, and DLNR and DPR permits pending. Subject to favorable weather and wind conditions, the event is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, September 20th with back-up dates September 27th, or October 4th, 2025.

Kailua Half Marathon [0:04:30]: This 13.14 mile race will take place on Sunday September 28th. The course loops through Lanikai, then rolls down Kalaheo before doing a challenging and scenic loop going up Mokapu, and returning back via Kaneohe Bay Drive and then back along Kalaheo to the finish at Kailua Beach Park. Details at https://raceroster.com/events/2025/98198/uloha-kailua-half-marathon

Public Feedback on Climate Action [0:04:30]: The Draft City and County of Honolulu 2025-2030 Climate Action Plan at https://resilientoahu.konveio.com/2025capcommunity is now open for public comment until September 12, 2025. Additionally, the Draft State of Hawaii Climate Action Pathways (CAP) report at https://hiclimate.consider.it/?tab=Introduction is also now open for public comment until September 30, 2025.

III. HPD AND HFD REPORTS [0:07:15]:

Honolulu Police Department [0:07:15]: Officer Jarret Atkins from the District 4 Community Policing Team reported crime statistics for August: 2 motor vehicle thefts, 8 burglaries, 22 thefts, 4 car break-ins, and 0 robberies.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:08:00]

1 Moped and Bike Violations: Board Member Lau asked about best response to moped riders and dirt bikers doing wheelies on streets. Officer Atkins recommended calling 911 with detailed descriptions.

Honolulu Fire Department [0:10:10]: Captain Keahi Palaualelo reported August statistics (2 structure fires, 1 brush fire, 9 nuisance fires, 6 activated alarms, 106 medical emergencies, 17 vehicle collisions, 1 mountain rescue, and 1 ocean rescue), and provided fire-safety tips on safely charging and disposing of Lithium-Ion batteries, including buying manufacturer-approved accessories, being mindful of overcharging, and recycling batteries responsibly. Finally, HDF is hosting “Fire Prevention Family Day” at the Honolulu Zoo, October 4, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, where the whole family can meet fire-safety partners and participate in activities.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:12:40]

1 Lithium-Ion Battery Disposal: Board Member Laeha asked about lithium-ion battery disposal since Home Depot stopped accepting them. Captain Palaualelo clarified that lithium-ion batteries differ from alkaline batteries.

Honolulu Ocean Safety Department [0:13:15]: Lieutenant Tristan Fabro from District 2 reported statistics for August that detail approximately 150,000 visitors; 15,000 preventative actions; 2,500 minor first aids; 27,000 public contacts; 30 ocean rescues; 0 resuscitations; and 0 drownings.

IV. BOARD BUSINESS: COMMITTEE MOTION [0:14:20]:

Motion to Submit Kailua Neighborhood Board’s Recommendations to DFM regarding Feedback on Stormwater Infrastructure [0:14:20]:

Kailua Water Quality Subcommittee Member Righter introduced this motion to submit the following points in response to the City and County of Honolulu’s (CCH) request for stormwater infrastructure solutions from the community to help mitigate pollution in Kailua’s waterways, improve water quality and the health of Kaelepulu Watershed, the Kailua Neighborhood Board recommends consideration of the following three initiatives:
(1) Build a new berm at the Kaopa Silt Basin to restore its designed functionality
(2) Provide additional curb inlet screens and trash collection boxes in storm drains
(3) Implement a trash and sediment capture structure at Keolu Channel [14:30].

Chair opened the floor for discussion.

1 Stormwater Mitigation Services: Mr. Mark Howland offered to donate his EPA award-winning stormwater mitigation services to strengthen subcommittee proposals.

2 Water Quality Subcommittee Background: Board Member Trecker emphasized these three improvements were selected from ten possible actions after years of study by the water quality subcommittee as most urgent and feasible for city implementation, expressing strong support for the motion.

3 Water Quality Monitoring Request: Board Member Laeha supported the recommendations but requested additional monitoring of leachate from old unlined landfills entering the marsh and water quality testing in that area. Chair Hicks responded that he will follow up on landfill monitoring status, noting closed landfills require minimum 30 years of leachate monitoring.

Board Member Weber arrived at 7:10 pm, 13 members present.
Board Member Thoemmes left at 7:11 pm, 12 members present. [0:07:25],

Hearing no further comments, Chair closed discussion and called the question. A roll-call vote followed, with Chair announcing that the ayes have it and the motion to support the resolution is adopted, 12-0-0 (Aye: Andrade, Andrews, Barra, Hicks, Laeha, Lau, Righter, Souza, Trecker, Weber, Weller, and Wong, No: None, Abstain: None) [0:26:30].

V. LOCAL AGENCY REPORTS [0:28:00]:

Board of Water Supply Representative [0:28:00]: Ms. Danielle Ornellas reported zero main breaks and no projects currently scheduled in the area for August. She also announced and promoted “Imagine a Day Without Water” family event, September 20, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, at Windward Mall Center Court.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:29:05]

1 Marine Corps Base Hawaii Water Usage: Board Member Weller asked about Marine Base water usage after Civil Beat story. Ms. Ornellas will research usage amounts and report back.

2 Marine Corps Base Hawaii Wastewater Upgrade: Chair Hicks noted Marine Base briefing about wastewater upgrades reducing daily usage from 2 million to 1 million gallons through greywater reuse for golf course irrigation.

3 Potable vs. Recycled Water Clarification: Board Member Wong asked whether Civil Beat article referenced potable or recycled water usage. Chair confirmed Marine Base currently uses city potable water.

Marine Corps Base Hawaii Representative [0:31:35]: No representative present.

Board Member Kobayashi arrived at 7:35 pm, 13 members present.

VI. RESIDENT AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS [0:32:05]:

1 State Lease Descendants List: Resident Kahu Ricky requested copies of descendants lists from military and state for lease negotiations, emphasizing need for legal descendants and heirs rather than state workers in negotiations.

2 Overflights: Resident Kahu Ricky noted that planes are overflying the community without N numbers.

3 Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB): Resident Kahu Ricky also questioned state’s lack of game plan for $15 billion in federal CRB beetle funding over ten years and Governor Green’s biosecurity budget reductions.

4 Complete Streets Update Request: Resident Leatrice Wolfe followed up from June meeting and requested an update on placement of a proposed speed bump placement.

5 Military Aircraft Overflight Complaint: Resident Joe Buck reported on August 19th at 9 pm a military flight callsign Hercules 12 flew over Keolu Hills residential areas at 285 knots and 1400 feet per Flight Aware, requesting Marine Base address routing over civilian areas at that speed and altitude at night.

6 Unpermitted Construction Investigation: Resident Ben Rowe sought guidance on unpermitted construction at 1519 Uluhaku Place, noting Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) awareness since July 28th but lack of action. (Update: DPP has issued a notice of violation.)

7 Tsunami Evacuation Concerns: Resident Kahu Ricky raised concerns about evacuation confusion during tsunami warning, requesting designated areas coordination with HIEMA.

VII. MAYOR AND GOVERNOR REPORTS [0:44:00]:

Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative [0:44:10]: Public Information Officer Shayne Enright reported highlights from Mayor Blangiardi’s newsletter, including honors given Oʻahu’s Purple Heart recipients during a ceremony at Honolulu Hale, Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit (HART) breaks ground on new guideways and rail stations across the third segment of the rail project, from Kalihi to Kakaʻako, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Region IX administrator visits Honolulu Hale to discuss housing and homelessness with Hawaiʻi’s mayors, and new members of the Honolulu Youth Commission are sworn in during a ceremony at Honolulu Hale. Public Information Officer Enright also announced that Department of Design and Construction (DDC) will conduct an archaeological survey at the Kailua Municipal Parking Lot from October 15–31, 2025, in preparation for upcoming improvements. The City thanks the public for its patience as this important work is completed. More details are available in the City’s press release.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:45:00]

1 Municipal Parking Lot Project Details Request: Board Member Wong requested details on parking lot improvements, noting lack of information and current construction impact on dozen parking spaces.

2 Hurricane Preparedness Information: Board Member Weber asked about hurricane preparation guidance. Ms. Enright recommended HNL alert app and social media updates, noting City leadership meetings starting tomorrow.

3 Non-Digital Information Access: Resident Ms. Carol Abe emphasized need for non-computer-based emergency information access, noting some residents don’t use computers and need alternative communication methods.

4 Comprehensive Details on Kailua Municipal Parking Lot: Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina provided details on the $2.8 million parking lot reconstruction project, including EV charging stations, complete pavement replacement, ADA compliance upgrades, tree removal, and new lighting systems that will require trenching the entire lot eight stalls at a time. She expressed strong frustration with city departments for poor public communication, noting she had to delay the project from July to October after receiving only weekend notice, and criticized the lack of coordination with community policing despite anticipating challenges during construction. Councilmember Kiaʻāina warned of high likelihood of discovering ancestral remains during extensive excavation work, which could significantly extend project timelines and closures

5 Inadequate Public Notice: Board Member Lau criticized press release lacking project rationale. Board Member Trecker also questioned spending $2.8 million plus $10 million without community input surveys.

6 Multi-Story Parking Alternative: Board Member Weller questioned wisdom of current improvements given previous proposals for three-story parking structure with community center, noting medical facility parking shortages. Board Member Andrade supported ADA improvements but requested consideration of multiple future proposals.

7 Tree Removal and Payment System Concerns: Board Member Wong again requested tree replacement diagrams and opposed parking bay systems that would burden mobility-impaired medical patients. Chair Hicks suggested modern meter technology allowing phone-based time extensions.

8 Traffic Flow and Maintenance Issues: Ms. Carol Abe acknowledged parking lot needs repair but criticized poor drop-off area planning and traffic flow design.

9 Request for DDC and DTS Representatives in October: The Kailua Neighborhood Board and Councilmember Kiaʻāina request representatives from DDC and DTS to address this issue at the next regular meeting.

10 Kalapawai Roundabout Cost Overrun Accountability: Resident Andreas Helchinger criticized mounting costs and lack of government accountability, questioning continued taxpayer money flowing to unaccountable contractors.

Governor Josh Green’s Representative [1:07:40]: Public Information Officer Erin Conner-Jerome clarified that Windward Oahu has five designated hurricane refuge areas that serve as last resort options but do not meet official state hurricane shelter guidelines due to building age and retrofit costs. HIEMA reports that Kalaheo HS has been appropriated $1.5M for design work (only) for upgrading it for hurricane shelter use – more funding will be required for construction. She provided updates on Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) utility pole installation on state land, Department of Land and Natural Resources’ (DLNR) gravel access road construction for restoration operations and advised residents to monitor Hurricane Kiko approaching the Big Island and follow City Department of Emergency Management (DEM) for evacuation information. Ms. Conner-Jerome also shared dates and registration deadlines for Oahu residents to provide feedback to Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) on the impact of tourism on the island.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:13:30]

1 Fire Marshal Resource Concerns: Board Member Weller reported new fire marshal lacks office, phone, staff, and budget despite wildfire risks, with possible January visit to discuss local fire-prone areas. Ms. Conner-Jerome confirmed departmental meeting this week to establish positions and recruitment.

2 DLNR Access Road Details: Board Member Laeha asked about permanence of gravel road and access restrictions for Kawainui Marsh restoration operations. Ms. Conner-Jerome confirmed permanent gravel road and referenced existing master plan.

3 HECO Stream Impact Investigation: Board Member Wong questioned DLNR response to unpermitted HECO utility work and requested specific division contact. Ms. Conner-Jerome committed to identify appropriate DLNR division for stream damage assessment follow-up.

4 Military Lease Negotiation Concerns: Board Member Weber expressed concern about governor’s bilateral military lease negotiations bypassing state and kingdom laws, international consent requirements. He emphasized trust responsibilities to Native Hawaiian people and requested course correction on negotiation approach.

5 Land Rights and Sovereignty Claims: Kahu Ricky asserted Native Hawaiians as rightful land heirs, stating federal government is a corporation serving the people. He emphasized proper ownership documentation and sovereign rights requiring government accountability to Native Hawaiian descendants.

6 Hurricane Shelter Funding Report Request: Resident Claudine Tomasa requested detailed HIEMA funding report information be provided to Chair Hicks. Ms. Conner-Jerome acknowledged request for comprehensive hurricane shelter funding documentation from HIEMA sources.

VIII. ELECTED OFFICIALS REPORTS [1:24:05]:

Representative Scot Matayoshi [1:24:05]: No representative present.

Senator Chris Lee [1:24:05]: No representative present.

Representative Lisa Marten [1:24:10]: Office Manager Emi Horii announced federal clean energy tax credits are ending soon with staggered deadlines: electric vehicles September 30, 2025, solar December 31, 2025, and other services through June 30, 2026. She encouraged residents to act quickly to take advantage of tax credits for new/used electric vehicles, solar installations, and heat pumps.

Representative Mike Lee [1:26:00]: Representative Mike Lee reported 25-30 attendees at the recent legislative town hall, featuring state leadership, including the speaker, vice speaker, former agriculture head, and housing chief providing honest Q&A sessions. He attended the national conference for legislators in Boston, making connections with other states facing similar issues and learning collaborative approaches to shared challenges. Representative Lee highlighted ongoing work on paid family leave legislation and job reclassification efforts with State Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) to hire local workers more efficiently, noting Oregon’s recent implementation as a model while considering small-business impacts.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:28:40]

1 Hurricane Shelter Board Member Barra asked about shelter funding progress. Representative Lee confirmed $1.5 million secured for Kalaheo High School cafeteria retrofit design and planning, with estimated $20 million total construction cost. Board Member Barra also asked whether Department of Education (DOE) considers hurricane shelter upgrades during routine school maintenance projects like reroofing, and Representative Lee committed to following up.

Councilmember Esther Kia’āina [1:31:25]: Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina reported the agricultural development task force held its first meeting August 28th with Waimānalo Agricultural Association head representing the Windward side, and announced a Department of Facility Maintenance Town Hall Wednesday October 22nd at 6 pm at Kailua Intermediate. Councilmember Kiaʻāina also shared that she secured $750,000 in climate resiliency funds for mangrove removal to supplement DLNR’s $1 million effort, while continuing to push for monthly Kaelepulu Stream berm openings. She announced she is launching her new Instagram account @cmkiaaina. Finally, she also detailed property tax reforms, including $20,000 homeowner exemption increases and a three-tier residential A system, while attempting to close a loophole that automatically charges homeowners over $1 million the higher residential A rate if they fail to file homeowner exemptions.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:36:50]

1 Property Tax Rate Clarification: Board Member Laeha asked about the $11.40 rate application for properties over $1 million. Councilmember Kiaʻāina confirmed it applies only to the amount exceeding $1 million (e.g., $1.2M home pays $4 per thousand up to $1M, then $11.40 per thousand on the remaining $200K), noting she’s creating a measured improvement with a three-tier system.

2 Landfill Fire Safety Concerns: Board Member Weller highlighted fire risks at the closed Mokapu landfill where dried California grass covers methane pipes, warning of potential ignition and explosion hazards with no nearby fire hydrants. Councilmember Kiaʻāina acknowledged the concern and outlined her plans as Public Safety Committee vice-chair to hold hearings on tsunami lessons learned (September 25th) and city fire mitigation strategy, inviting the fire marshal and encouraging board representation.

3 Beach Sand Relocation Project Costs: Board Member Trecker asked about total costs for the current sand relocation project. Councilmember Kiaʻāina commented on the extensive restoration efforts that involved one hundred dump trucks.

4 Residential vs Residential A Tax Categories: Board Member Lau sought clarification on property tax categories and percentage of Kailua properties under $1 million. Councilmember Kiaʻāina emphasized the distinction between residential ($3.50 regardless of value with homeowner exemption) and residential A (non-owner occupied rentals), warning about the unfair loophole where homeowners over $1 million automatically get residential A rates if they fail to file homeowner exemptions

Senator Jarrett Keohokalole [1:47:10]: No representative present.

U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda [1:47:15]: No representative present.

IX. REPORTS FROM MEMBERS WHO ATTENDED OTHER MEETINGS [1:47:20]:

Dune Restoration Project Update: Chair Hicks reported the dune restoration project is progressing well with impressive results visible along areas where work has begun on the shoreline. The berm was opened earlier this week as part of Department of Facility Maintenance work supporting Department of Parks and Recreation efforts, with hundreds of residents growing seedlings at home for late September planting to establish crucial ground covering for project sustainability. The initiative represents a proactive community-involved effort showing positive outcomes in completed sections.

X. PRESENTATIONS [1:48:50]:

411 Dune Circle TMK (1) 4-3-017:053 SMA Major Permit Application [1:49:00]: Mr. Mark Howland from Whale Environmental Services presented an SMA permit application for demolishing and rebuilding a single-family dwelling, an inland lot requiring full SMA process due to underlying sands and potential for discovery of ancestral remains despite being well away from the shoreline. The project includes relocating the pool away from the 5-foot southern setback, converting the carport to a garage, and implementing enhanced foundations designed for 3.2-foot sea level rise with standard protective conditions, including wildlife protection, dark sky lighting, and clean soil provisions. Mr. Howland emphasized the property is in X flood zone with no FEMA issues and noted the 2.38 feet per year shoreline erosion rate, while confirming consultation with Board Member Wong and compliance with all Chapter 21 development standards.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:56:10]

1 Archaeological Concerns About Pool Relocation: Board Member Righter expressed concern about relocating the pool due to frequent discoveries of ancestral remains, emphasizing Native Hawaiian community requests to minimize ground disturbance and stick to existing footprints unless absolutely necessary. Mr. Howland explained the 4-5 foot relocation addresses neighbor complaints about proximity to property line and confirmed archaeological consultants are available if required.

2 SMA Process Clarification: Board Member Wong noted the usual archaeological assessment requirements on their standard SMA conditions list, which wasn’t available due to lack of quorum at the previous committee meeting. Mr. Howland confirmed adding mandatory stop-work orders for discovery and endangered species encounters, crediting board guidance for improving their 65 approved SMAs last year

Koʻolau Resilience Hub Network [2:03:15]: Coordinator Mr. Joseph Wat from KEY Project encouraged community to form a Kailua hub with the purpose of grassroots resources for disaster-preparedness, and proposed initiatives such as Telegram communications channel, youth-resilience academies and 2-day workshops, psychological first aid and CPR training, chainsaw certification for post-disaster road clearance, and acquisition of an industrial-grade freeze dryer.

Kailua Neighborhood Board 2025 Survey Responses [2:13:00]: No representative present.

XI. BOARD BUSINESS: INDIVIDUAL MOTIONS [2:13:40]:

Motion to Submit NB31’s Position in Response to DPR’s Invitation for Public Feedback in Q3 regarding Pet Regulations at Community Parks [2:13:40]:

Parks and Recreation Committee Chair Evan Weber introduced motion to responsed to the Department of Parks and Recreation’s (DPR) request for input on revised dog regulations in Kailua parks with Kailua Neighborhood Board recommendations:
1. The exploration of fenced, off-leash dog parks at Kawainui Park and Maunawili Valley Neighborhood Park.
2. The following parks retain on-leash privileges: The rest of Kawainui Park that would not be off-leash, Kaʻelepulu Mini Park, Enchanted Lake Community Park, and Pōhākupu Mini Park.
3. The following parks should be considered for new on-leash dog privileges: Kalama Beach Park, Kailua District Park, Kailua Beach Park, and Maunawili Neighborhood Park.
4. The following parks should NOT be considered for dog privileges: ‘Aikahi Community Park, Kalaheo Neighborhood Park, and Keolu Hills Neighborhood Park.

Board Member Andrews left at ??? pm, 12 members present.
Board Member Righter left at 9:20 pm, 11 members present.

Chair opened the floor for discussion. Board Member Wong asked about criteria for choosing parks with and without dog privileges, and sought clarification on surveys done. Board Member Laeha inquired about potential usage changes. Board Member Andrade asked about the underutilized back area of Kailua Hills Neighborhood Park accessible from the dead-end neighborhood. Board Member Barra asked about the stalled Kailua dog park development.

Hearing no further comments, Chair closed discussion and called the question. A roll-call vote followed, with Chair announcing that the motion was not adopted, 9-2-0 (Aye: Andrade, Barra, Hicks, Kobayashi, Laeha, Lau, Souza, Trecker, Weber, No: Weller, Wong, Abstain: None) [2:26:10].

Board Member Righter rejoined at 9:45 pm., 12 members present.

Board Member Weber motioned to amend the motion above by including only Kailua Beach Park for consideration of new, on-leash privileges [2:48:45].

Chair opened the floor for discussion. Board Member Kobayashi asked about the number of yes votes needed to pass the resolution, and Chair confirmed ten votes are required. Board Member Souza questioned removing Maunawili Park from on-leash privileges, noting it’s a large, underutilized field used occasionally for helicopter rescues but easily cleared by firefighters. Board Member Weber clarified there are two separate Maunawili parks: Maunawili Valley Neighborhood Park (the large field with tennis/basketball courts recommended for off-leash dog park) remains in the resolution, while the smaller Maunawili Neighborhood Park near Olomana Elementary School was being removed from on-leash privileges due to heavy use by school children for sports.

Hearing no further comments, Chair closed discussion and called the question. A roll-call vote followed, with Chair announcing that ayes have it, and the amendment to the motion is adopted, 10-0-2 (Aye: Andrade, Barra, Hicks, Kobayashi, Laeha, Lau, Righter, Souza, Trecker, Weber, No: None, Abstain: Weller, Wong) [2:52:10].

Following adoption of the amendment, a roll-call vote on the amended motion followed, and Chair declared that ayes have it, and the amended motion is adopted, 10-0-2 (Aye: Andrade, Barra, Hicks, Kobayashi, Laeha, Lau, Righter, Souza, Trecker, Weber, No: None, Abstain: Weller, Wong) [2:53:50].

XII. APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING MINUTES [2:55:25]: hearing no objections, Chair declared the minutes of the Thursday, August 7, 2025, regular meeting are accepted as distributed.

XIII. COMMITTEE REPORTS [2:55:40]: hearing no objections, Chair declared the reports for August 2025 are accepted as distributed.

Transportation and Public Works Update: Board Member Lau reported that they are actively investigating the no-parking request, DTS believes they may have already initiated a work order for this specific request, and are following up on the matter.

XIV. COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP MOTIONS [2:55:20]:

Motion to add the following members to committees: hearing no objections, Chair declared motion to add Board Member Righter to Parks and Recreation Committee and Board Member Andrade to Homeless in Kailua Subommittee is adopted, 12-0-0 (Aye: Andrade, Barra, Hicks, Kobayashi, Laeha, Lau, Righter, Souza, Trecker, Weber, Weller, Wong, No: None, Abstain: None) [2:56:20].

XV. CHAIRʻS REPORT [2:56:50]: Chair announced that committee agendas for October are due by Sunday, September 21, 2025.

XVI. ADJOURMENT [2:57:00]: Chair adjourned the meeting at 10:01 pm.

Respectfully submitted by: Brandon Tsark, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Dylan Whitsell, Deputy, NCO
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.