WAIMĀNALO NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 32

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA OF THE WAIMĀNALO NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD #32
MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2026, at 7:00 P.M.

IN PERSON
Waimānalo Public Library Meeting Room, 41-1320 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Waimānalo, HI 96795

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BOARD MEETING RECORDINGS: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice
GOOGLE DRIVE: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/12YXyGq4fcxrkfzlLmf4saaylQ9Os5f9z

Purpose: The purpose of Neighborhood Boards and the Neighborhood Plan is to increase and assure effective citizen participation in the decisions of government.

Rules for Engaging: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to click the “raise hand” icon, and when recognized by the Chair, to address comments to the Chair. Remarks should not exceed three (3) minutes. Please ensure your microphone is muted unless you are speaking. You can mute and unmute for those dialing in on the phone by pressing * 6. Please state your first and last name for the record, before moving into your comment/question etc. Written testimony may also be submitted via email using the contact information listed on the Neighborhood Commission Office website. ALOHA, “Akahai”, meaning kindness to be expressed with tenderness; “Lōkahi”, meaning unity, to be expressed with harmony; “ʻOluʻolu” meaning agreeable, to be expressed with pleasantness; “Haʻahaʻa”, meaning humility, to be expressed with modesty; “Ahonui”, meaning patience, to be expressed with perseverance, in accordance with Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes Chapter § 5-7.5.

Notes: The Board may take action on any agenda item. As required by the State Sunshine Law (HRS 92), specific issues not noted on this agenda cannot be voted on unless added to the agenda. A two-thirds (2/3) vote, nine (9) of this 13-member Board, is needed to add an item to the agenda. Adding an item to the agenda, however, is not permitted if 1. The item to be added is of reasonably major importance and 2. Action on the item by the Board will affect a significant number of persons. Determination of whether a specific matter may be added to an agenda must be done on a case-by-case basis. Please silence all electronic devices. This meeting is being recorded.

1) CALL TO ORDER – Chair Kimeona Kane
a) Opening Pule/Oli – Volunteer participant
b) Welcoming Remarks, Rules of the meeting and announcements – Chair Kimeona Kane
c) Roll Call – Neighborhood Board Assistant Melissa Urubio
d) ʻŌlelo Noʻeau o ka Mahina – #19 Ahu lau ka Piʻipiʻi i Kakanilua. A slaughter of Piʻipiʻi at Kakanilua. In the battle between Kahekili of Maui and Kalaniʻōpuʻu of Hawaiʻi, on the sand dunes of Wailuku, Maui, there was a great slaughter of Hawaiʻi warriors who were called the Piʻipiʻi. Any great slaughter might be compared to the slaughter of the Piʻipiʻi.
e) Lohe i ke Kūpuna

2) EMERGENCY PROVIDERS REPORT (Limited to three (3) minutes)
a) Honolulu Fire Department, email the Honolulu Fire Department’s Public Information Office at hfdnhb@honolulu.gov
b) Honolulu Police Department, https://www.honolulupd.org/information/
c) City and County of Honolulu Ocean Safety Department, Lieutenant Aka Tamashiro
3) PUBLIC AGENCIES’ REPORT (Three (3) minutes each)
a) Board of Water Supply – Danielle Ornelas, https://www.boardofwatersupply.com/
b) Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – Director Laura Thielen, laura.thielen@honolulu.gov (Five (5) minutes)
c) Hawaiʻi State Department of Transportation – Casey Abe, casey.abe@hawaii.gov

4) FILLING OF TWO (2) VACANCIES ON THE BOARD (Proof of Residency and Oath of Office as needed)
a) One (1) AT-LARGE vacancy
b) One (1) AT-LARGE vacancy

5) COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS REPORTS (Three (3) minutes each)
a) Education Reports
i) Waimānalo Elementary and Intermediate School – Principal Jamie Dela Cruz, jaime.delacruz@k12.hi.us
ii) Blanche Pope Elementary School, Kula Kaiapuni o Waimānalo – Principal Heidi Rezentes, heidi.rezentes@k12.hi.us
iii) Mālama Honua Public Charter School – Principal Denise Espania, despania@malamahonuapcs.org
iv) Kula Kaiapuni o Kailua – Hōkū Akana
v) Hui Mālama O Ke Kai – Maile Ahsam, info@huimalamaokekai.org
vi) Windward Community College – Ardis Eschenberg, ardise@hawaii.edu
vii) University of Hawaiʻi, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources – Ilima Ho-Lastimosa, lipuupuu@hawaii.edu
viii) Hawaiʻi Job Corps – Julie Dugan, Dugan.Julie@jobcorps.org
b) Community Services Reports
i) Waimānalo Health Center – Jasmine Lefiti, JLefiti@waimanalohealth.org
ii) Waimānalo Hawaiian Homestead Association – Kenneth Ho, kianiani@gmail.com
c) Military Reports
i) Bellows Air Force Station – Major Eric Johnson, eric.johnson.138@us.af.mil
ii) Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Colonel Jeremy W. Beaven, Kristi Kaluhiwa, Kristi.kaluhiwa@usmc.mil
iii) Hawaiʻi Army National Guard – Colonel Ronald Hogsten, ronald.d.hogsten.mil@army.mil, 808-672-1828
6) RESIDENT/COMMUNITY CONCERNS & ANNOUNCEMENTS/PUBLIC REPORTS (Three (3) minutes) For Community Concerns please review the NOTE section in the box at the top of the page regarding adding items to the agenda.
a) Office of Hawaiian Affairs Legislative Package Presentation – Micah Kahiwa (15 minutes)
b) Department of Hawaiian Home Lands update on the Wong Farm Homestead Project – Trevor Vagay, P.E., The Limtiaco Group Trevor@tlcghawaii.com, Office (808) 687-8740 (15 minutes)
c) Mialisa O. – Flood and Water Quality Concerns
d) Makua of Blanche Pope, Ke Kula Kaiapuni o Waimānalo Class of 2032, Maile Nuʻuhiwa-Santos
e) Other

7) ELECTED OFFICIALS’ REPORTS (Five (5) minutes)
a) City Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina, ekiaaina@honolulu.gov, (808) 768-5003
b) State Senator Chris Lee, senlee@capitol.hawaii.gov, (808) 587-8388
c) State Representative Lisa Marten, repmarten@capitol.hawaii.gov, (808) 586-9450
d) Governor Josh Green, https://governor.hawaii.gov/, (808) 586-0034, Randi Jeung, randi.s.jeung@hawaii.gov
e) Congressmember Jill Tokuda, https://tokuda.house.gov/

8) BOARD BUSINESS
a) Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes, Monday, March 09, 2026.
b) Makua of Blanche Pope, Ke Kula Kaiapuni o Waimānalo Class of 2032, Maile Nuʻuhiwa-Santos –Supporting a letter identifying critical pathways and needs, sending it to the Board of Education, State Representatives and other appropriate persons or offices.
c) Dog Friendly Parks Proposal Consideration and Discussion, pending proposals and consultation with Department of Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries and the Native Hawaiian community where applicable.
d) Position on RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE IMPROVEMENT OF WAIMANALO AFFORDABLE APARTMENTS drafted by Taylor Hunt.

9) MEETING ANNOUNCEMENTS – Chair Kimeona Kane (Five (5) minutes)
a) Neighborhood Commission Office Announcements – Neighborhood Board Assistant Melissa Urubio
b) The next Waimānalo Neighborhood Board No. 32 Regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 11, 2026.
c) 2026 ʻŌlelo Broadcast Schedule – The Waimānalo Neighborhood Board No. 32 meetings are broadcast on ʻŌlelo Channel 49 on the fourth (4th) Monday of the month at 9:00 p.m. and on the first (1st) and third (3rd) Saturdays of the month at 3:00 p.m.

10) ADJOURNMENT, CLOSING REMARKS, & PULE – Chair Kimeona Kane (Two (2) Minutes)

All 13 seats are At Large
Hōkū Akana
Kukui Akana
Kanela Kamahalonuilai, Treasurer
Kūʻikeokalani Kamakea-ʻŌhelo, Vice Chair
Kimeona Kane, Chair
Lillie Makaila
Jehnna McKeague
Moeʻata Mokulehua, Secretary
Kapiʻolani Nee
Ted Ralston
Brenda Wong
Vacant
Vacant

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2026, AT 7:00 P.M.
WAIMĀNALO PUBLIC LIBRARY, 41-1320 KALANIANA’OLE HIGHWAY, WAIMĀNALO, HI 96795
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Video recording of this meeting is found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ycNscBwHVQ

Meeting materials are found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/12YXyGq4fcxrkfzlLmf4saaylQ9Os5f9z

1) CALL TO ORDER – [0:01:30]: Vice Chair Kūʻike Kamakea-ʻŌhelo called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.

a) Opening Pule/Oli – [0:01:42]: A community member volunteered and offered the opening pule.

b) Welcoming Remarks, Rules of the Meeting and Announcements – [0:02:51]: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo welcomed attendees, announced the Rules for Engagement, Sunshine Law reminders, and aloha expectations.

c) Roll Call – [0:05:53]: Quorum was established with seven (7) members present at roll call. Note: This 13-member Board requires seven (7) members to establish a quorum and to take official action.

d) ʻŌlelo Noʻeau o ka Mahina – [0:07:14]: #18 – Ahu kupanaha ka lā i Mānā. Peculiar is the action of the sun in Mānā. Said of a delusion. Mānā, Kauaʻi, is a place where mirages were often seen.

e) Lohe i ke Kūpuna – [0:07:52]: A community member shared a memory of Waimānalo, recalling a time when there was a boat and swimming area near what she described as the Anderson’s house area at the beach. She noted with aloha that the community has grown and changed over the years.

Members Present: Hōkū Akana, Kukui Akana, Kanela Kamahalohanuilai, Kūʻike Kamakea-ʻŌhelo, Jehnna McKeague, Moeʻata Mokulehua, and Brenda Wong.

Members Absent: Kimeona Kane, Lillie Makaila, Kapiʻolani Nee, and Ted Ralston.

Guests: Captain Schubert (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Villaflor, Sergeant Dowkin, and Officer Casey Melvin (Honolulu Police Department); Lieutenant Aka Tamashiro (Department of Ocean Safety); Danielle Ornellas (Board of Water Supply); Director Laura Thielen (Mayor’s Representative); Casey Abe (Hawaiʻi State Department of Transportation); Kumu Hōkū Akana and Principal Jill Spry (Kula Kaiapuni o Kailua); Chancellor Ardis Eschenberg (Windward Community College); Julie Dugan (Hawaiʻi Job Corps); Jasmine Lefiti (Waimānalo Health Center); Kristi Kaluhiwa (Marine Corps Base Hawaii); Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina; Representative Lisa Marten; Wayne Tanaka (Sierra Club of Hawaiʻi); Dalene Kamakea, Benny Labaya, Kawai Moku, Wanda Awo Arvin, Maile Nuʻuhiwa-Santos, Esther M P Lafaele, Mike Buck (C.O.R.E.), Kaʻu Kalama-Ohelo, Taylor Campbell (WAA), Pilialoha Callahan, Nevaeh Rivera, Jessie (Residents and Community Members); Melissa Urubio (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Names were not included if not legible. There were approximately 39 total participants online.

2) EMERGENCY PROVIDERS REPORT – [0:09:42]

a) Honolulu Fire Department – [0:09:47]: Captain Schubert reported February 2026 statistics: 44 medical calls, 3 motor vehicle incidents, 3 activated alarms, and 1 brush fire. He also shared the monthly safety tip on smoke alarms, covering proper installation in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home, as well as the importance of testing them monthly and replacing any alarms that are 10 years old or no longer respond to testing.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lBGoJLo-s6ymkyfVwABdKKTduP2_k4yn/view?usp=drive_link

b) Honolulu Police Department – [0:11:24]: Lieutenant Villaflor introduced himself as one of three lieutenants operating District 4, accompanied by Sergeant Dowkin and Officer Casey Melvin. Officer Melvin reported February 2026 statistics: 0 motor vehicle thefts, 0 burglaries, 4 thefts, 1 unlawful entry into motor vehicle, and 2 robberies.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:12:40]
1. Appreciation for Increased Police Presence at Hūnānāniho: Member Wong thanked the Honolulu Police Department for increased presence at Hūnānāniho Beach, noting that groundskeepers confirmed it has been helpful. She gave a shoutout to Officers Ventura and Bonilla for reducing problematic behavior in the area and also reported regular occurrences of underage drinking in the right parking lot.

a) Department of Ocean Safety – [0:13:55]: Lieutenant Aka Tamashiro reported February 2026 statistics for District 2 (Sandy Beach to Kalama Beach Park), including 102,300 in attendance, nearly 14,000 preventative actions, nearly 1,200 first aids, nearly 22,000 public contacts, and 101 rescues, with notable incidents involving near-drownings at Halona Blowhole Lookout, paddle boarders swept past the Mokulua Islands, a boat mistaken for a distressed paddleboarder near Makapuʻu Trail, and a vessel near Castle Point with mechanical and medical issues — all handled successfully. He also shared that the Honolulu Police Department and the City conducted a sweep at Hūnānāniho addressing homeless incidents in the bathrooms, credited park keeper Dwayne for his outstanding work, and reported a honu (turtle) found deceased on the beach entangled in fishing line with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) notified. Additionally, Lieutenant Tamashiro shared that Ocean Safety received a new 20-foot storage container at Hūnānāniho to replace a rusted 40-foot unit.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:21:08]
1. Data on Residents vs. Visitor Rescues: Member Hōkū Akana asked if data distinguishes between kamaʻāina (residents) and malihini (visitors) in rescue reports. Lieutenant Tamashiro noted that current log sheets do not separate locals from visitors, but acknowledged the value of such data for addressing tourism authority funding responsibilities. He shared that Ocean Safety has been working with the Hawaii Tourism Authority on safety education videos.
2. Kona Wind Response and Technology Update: Representative Marten asked whether the major incidents occurred during the Kona wind event, and Lieutenant Tamashiro confirmed they did, adding that Ocean Safety plans to increase personnel for anticipated similar conditions and may temporarily close towers for lifeguard safety while still maintaining a beach presence. He also shared that mobile responders recently began using iPads for real-time data reporting, which he hopes will eventually allow him to provide the Board with live statistics ahead of meetings.
3. Deceased Honu (Turtle) Protocol and Cultural Considerations: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo asked whether notifying National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) upon finding a deceased honu (turtle) is official protocol or common practice. Lieutenant Tamashiro explained that notifying National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to perform necropsies has been standard practice throughout his 20 years of service, and he agreed to confirm whether this is officially codified and to work with the community on culturally appropriate protocols.

3) PUBLIC AGENCIES’ REPORT – [0:28:43]

a) Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [0:28:54]: Danielle Ornellas reported one recorded water main break in February 2026, involving a 4-inch pipe installed in 1957. She highlighted World Water Day on Sunday, March 22, 2026, with the United Nations theme “Where Water Flows, Equality Grows,” and encouraged the community to visit boardofwatersupply.com and social media pages for stories and videos about the global water crisis. She also shared that Manager Ernie Lau is available and willing to attend a future meeting to address community questions.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:31:03]
1. Red Hill Water Contamination Participation: Member Kamahalohanuilai asked whether the Board of Water Supply is still part of conversations regarding Red Hill pollution. Danielle shared that Board of Water Supply continues to attend meetings, but the Navy has recently declined to participate. She recommended directing specific questions to Manager Ernie Lau when he attends a Board meeting.
2. Sewer Back Charges: Resident Esther Lafaele described receiving a large three-year back charge from the Department of Environmental Services (ENV) for sewer fees with no response despite repeated outreach, and Danielle clarified that while Department of Environmental Services (ENV) billing is included in water bills, all questions and adjustments must go directly to the Department of Environmental Services (ENV). Councilmember Kiaʻāina noted that the Department of Environmental Services (ENV) is offering long-term repayment plans, and Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo committed to adding the issue to the Mayor’s Report for an expedited response. Lastly, Member Hōkū Akana emphasized that residents should not bear the burden of billing errors and that accountability should rest with the department.
3. Director Lau Availability: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo asked about lead time needed to invite Director Lau to a future meeting. Danielle confirmed that Director Lau is flexible and eager to attend, suggesting the next monthly meeting would work with minimal coordination.

b) Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [0:45:46]: Director Laura Thielen provided updates on several pending questions from prior meetings. She reported that the City joined the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Community Rating System, qualifying Honolulu residents for a 10% reduction in flood insurance premiums. Regarding fireworks, she noted that while the City does not host fireworks shows, it supports permitted community events. On park field use, Director Thielen shared that the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) has conducted meetings with athletic leagues and established a process prioritizing youth activities, with Waimānalo’s field-user meeting expected in May or early June. She also shared storm preparedness reminders encouraging residents to use the Honolulu HNL 311 mobile app to report hazards and noted that city crews will prioritize roadway clearance during the approaching storm.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vGpl_DumeB4t5ijFSEOWQxGuYM8H_H57/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:54:39]
1. Waimānalo Park Signage Update: Member Wong asked about the status of the park signage request submitted by the Board. Director Thielen confirmed that she forwarded the request to District Manager Jason Woll, who indicated most signs would not be an issue. She committed to a full update at the next meeting.
2. District Park Pavilion Construction Timeline: Member Hōkū Akana requested a visual update and timeline for the pavilion construction at the district park. Director Thielen shared that construction is ongoing and the pavilion should be completed by summer 2026, with bathroom design also in progress. She committed to returning with specific dates at the next meeting.
3. Flashing Blue Camera Lights at Makapuʻu and Sandy Beach Lookouts: Member Kamahalohanuilai raised a community concern about the flashing blue standalone Honolulu Police Department camera lights near Makapuʻu and Sandy Beach potentially causing medical issues, including a near-seizure incident for a Kāneʻohe resident. She requested the lights be changed to solid blue. Director Thielen committed to follow up. Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo also requested an update on the timeline for removing the structures, if temporary, and asked whether wildlife/feral animal population data captured by the cameras could be shared with the community for conservation purposes.
4. Flood Insurance Premium Basis and Additional Subsidies: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo asked whether the 10% flood premium reduction is based on national or local averages and whether the mayor could offer an additional local subsidy to match the federal reduction, given the high cost of living in Waimānalo. Director Thielen acknowledged the concern and committed to reporting back.
5. Native Hawaiian Cultural Rights and Park Permitting: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo asked how permitting practices acknowledge Native Hawaiian cultural rights and celebrations, protected under Article 12, Section 7 of the Hawaiʻi State Constitution. Director Thielen acknowledged the concerns and apologized that incorrect information had been given previously about permit requirements, confirming that non-profit status is not required. She committed to a fuller response at the next meeting.
6. Camping Fees for Native Hawaiian Beneficiaries: Member Kamahalohanuilai requested that the City consider discounting or deferring camping permit fees for beneficiaries of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act at Waimānalo Beach Park, noting that permits allowing only 10 people per site would cost over $5,200 for a typical large family gathering. Director Thielen committed to looking into it.

c) Hawaiʻi State Department of Transportation (HDOT) – [1:16:03]: Casey Abe reported several field inspection updates: overgrowth at the Nalu Street drain inlet was cleared on Wednesday, January 5th; white delineator posts were installed near Nalu Street at the Kalanianaʻole Highway intersection; a sidewalk tripping hazard near Kumuhau Street was repaired; a new rectangular rapid flashing beacon was installed on Nakini Street westbound on Kalanianaʻole Highway. He identified ongoing concerns including electrical wires hanging from a utility pole near Nalu Street, a homeless encampment near the guardrail by 41-692 Kalanianaʻole Highway, trash from another encampment at 41-706 Kalanianaʻole Highway, and a damaged pedestrian crossing beacon at Moole Street. He also shared a sketch of a proposed temporary fix for the shoreline erosion problem on Nalu Street and noted plans to request legislative funding for a midterm fix addressing shoreline erosion and sea level rise from Waimānalo to Makapuʻu Beach Park. Additionally, he presented a request from a homeowner to close a beach access point at her property due to unauthorized four-wheel bike access and invited board feedback by email or at the next meeting.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:22:44]
1. Tree Setback Along Highway Follow-Up: Representative Lisa Marten thanked Casey Abe for the report and requested that the conversation regarding trees along the 50-foot highway setback be restarted. Mr. Abe confirmed he would follow up with the Deputy Director.
2. Appreciation and Hawaiʻi State Department of Transportation Attention to Waimānalo: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo commended Mr. Abe and Director Sniffen for the special attention given to Waimānalo compared to other neighborhood boards.
3. Low Communication Lines at Huli Street and Kalanianaʻole Highway Intersection: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo noted low-hanging power or communication lines at the corner lot on the Kailua side of Huli Street and Kalanianaʻole Highway intersection and requested attention be placed to begin mitigation measures.
4. Cultural Monitors in Coastal Road Work: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo requested that cultural monitors be included in any road work along the Waimānalo coastline, as the roadway is built on historically significant sand dunes that are known to house iwi kupuna (ancestral remains of Native Hawaiians). He asked that Chair Kane be contacted if appropriate monitors cannot be identified.

4) FILLING OF TWO (2) VACANCIES ON THE BOARD – [1:26:36]: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo announced two At-Large vacancies on the Board and invited interested community members to reach out. No individuals came forward.

5) COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS REPORTS – [1:27:24]

a) Education Reports – [1:27:32]
i. Waimānalo Elementary and Intermediate School – [1:27:33]: No representative present.

ii. Blanche Pope Elementary School, Kula Kaiapuni o Waimānalo – [1:27:41]: No representative present.

iii. Mālama Honua Public Charter School – [1:27:53]: No representative present.

iv. Kula Kaiapuni o Kailua – [1:28:08]: Kumu Hōkū Akana shared that Kula Kaiapuni o Kailua is actively working to encourage the pipeline from Blanche Pope Kula Kaiapuni o Waimānalo and improving communication regarding transitions for students. She noted this is the second sixth-grade class in the program, emphasizing the need for a clear pathway into intermediate school so no more students are lost. Principal Jill Spry also introduced herself as a Kailua alum with 18 years of teaching experience, expressing strong support for Kumu Hōkū Akanaʻs vision and commitment to exploring creative solutions for student transitions in collaboration with the Complex Area Superintendent.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:35:05]
1. Waimānalo Intermediate Seventh and Eighth Grade Program Planning: Representative Marten asked whether the original plan to establish a seventh and eighth grade program at Waimānalo Intermediate had been set aside, noting that it fell apart the previous year due to a small class size and some students enrolling at Kamehameha Schools, and inquired why Kailua Intermediate or direct enrollment to Kailua High School were now being considered instead. Principal Jill Spry clarified that Waimānalo Intermediate is still the primary plan, but that they want to be better prepared this year by having a backup plan in place in case a kumu cannot be found, so students are not left without options at the last minute.
2. Meeting with Complex Area Superintendent: Resident Maile shared that they would like to arrange a meeting with the Department of Education Complex Area Superintendent for their community. Representative Lisa Marten committed to assist.

v. Hui Mālama O Ke Kai – [1:37:03]: No representative present.

vi. Windward Community College – [1:37:12]: Chancellor Ardis Eschenberg announced that midterms are this week followed by spring break, with summer school registration opening on Friday, April 10, 2026, and fall registration opening on Monday, April 27, 2026. She highlighted the Hālau Hekili middle college program for rising 9th graders to earn a Hawaiian Knowledge Innovation Certificate.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:38:55]
1. Hoʻolei Scholarship Funding: Member Hōkū Akana asked about the funding for Hoʻolei scholarship for students transitioning to Windward Community College. Chancellor Eschenberg confirmed funding has been set aside through Castle Foundation and institutional funds to cover remaining tuition for any student graduating from a public or charter school on the Windward side who applies for financial aid. She also added that parents can visit windward.hawaii.edu for applications and more information.
2. Windward Community College Career Expo: Chancellor Eschenberg announced the Windward Community College Career Expo on Monday, March 31, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in Hale Ākoakoa (Campus Center), with approximately 40 employers offering higher-wage jobs, and noted community members can upload resumes even if they cannot attend in person.
3. Career Pathways for Kaiapuni Students and Hawaiian Studies Outcomes: Member Hōkū Akana highlighted the need to develop career pathways and internship opportunities for Kaiapuni students on the Windward side, emphasizing that for ʻŌlelo to be viable, it must connect to economic opportunities, and expressed interest in collaborating with Windward Community College. Chancellor Eschenberg welcomed the idea, sharing that post-graduation data shows Hawaiian Studies AA graduates actually out-earn Liberal Arts AA graduates four to five years after graduation, likely due to their cultural and language skills, and noted that the college is also exploring certification programs within Hawaiian Studies to further increase earning potential.

vii. University of Hawaiʻi, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources – [1:44:08]: No representative present.

viii. Hawaiʻi Job Corps – [1:44:21]: Julie Dugan reported that enrollment at Job Corps has grown to approximately 70% capacity following last year’s threatened shutdown, with 30 students recently graduating with their high school diplomas and Representative Lisa Marten serving as keynote speaker. She also shared that students and staff attended a national Job Corps conference in Washington D.C. where they met with congressional members, and announced that Job Corps will be represented at the Windward Community College Career Expo, with staff openings available for residential advisors, security officers, an academic instructor, a career counselor, and a registered nurse — several with sign-on bonuses of $1,000–$1,500 (contact: 808-259-6051). Additionally, she noted that Job Corps continues to support the food drive at Waimānalo District Park twice a month and that Marshallese students and staff hosted a booth at Waimānalo School’s cultural night to educate attendees about their culture. Lastly, she assured the community that an emergency plan is in place to keep students and staff safe during the upcoming adverse weather conditions.

b) Community Services Reports – [1:48:05]

i. Waimānalo Health Center – [1:48:10]: Jasmine Lefiti highlighted March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, noting it is the deadliest cancer in people under 50 and second deadliest overall. She encouraged cancer screenings for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers, which help detect disease early when treatment is most effective (call 808-259-7948). She also announced hiring openings in medical community services, cultural health, and dental – including dental assistants with on-the-job training available (waimanalohealth.org/careers).

ii. Waimānalo Hawaiian Homestead Association – [1:50:36]: No representative present.

c) Military Reports – [1:50:45]
i. Bellows Air Force Station – [1:50:57]: No representative present.

ii. Marine Corps Base Hawaii – [1:51:02]: Kristi Kaluhiwa reported that community members from Kāneʻohe and Heʻeia were hosted for a Makahiki celebration on Saturday, February 14, 2026, which included a tour of Nuʻupia Pond with a visiting Commanding General from Okinawa, and that monthly open 5K races continue to be available to the community. She also announced that a new section director has come on board following the retirement of the previous director in August 2025, and a change of command is anticipated in May 2026 when Colonel Beaven transitions to Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM). Additionally, she noted that plans are underway to welcome Kānehūnāmoku students sailing into Mōkapu as part of a Kāneʻohe Bay sail, weather permitting.

iii. Hawaiʻi Army National Guard – [1:55:33]: No representative present.

6) RESIDENT/COMMUNITY CONCERNS & ANNOUNCEMENTS/PUBLIC REPORTS – [1:55:43]

a) Office of Hawaiian Affairs Legislative Package Presentation – [1:56:02]: No representative present.

b) Department of Hawaiian Home Lands – Wong Farm Homestead Project Update – [1:56:46]: No representative present.

c) Makua of Blanche Pope, Ke Kula Kaiapuni o Waimānalo – [1:57:13]: Maile Nuʻuhiwa-Santos addressed the board on behalf of families with students in the sixth grade at Kula Kaiapuni o Waimānalo at Blanche Pope, expressing deep concern about the lack of a clear pathway into intermediate school for their children who will transition in the coming months. She noted that last year’s cohort experienced disruption due to no clear pipeline. They asked for kokua (assistance) in securing a plan for the upcoming class before registration and teacher line assignments close.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:59:08]
1. Pathway Resolution Support and Tracking: Member Hōkū Akana supported pursuing a resolution in favor of the pathway and tracking it through the Board and with State Representatives.
2. Kaiapuni Program Funding, Facility Plans, and Transition Discussion: Member Kamahalohanuilai shared her experience as a mother of a Kaiapuni student and asked about the status of $3 million in funding, a possible bridge to Kailua High School, and what can be accomplished within five months. Representative Marten clarified that $5 million in legislative funding was secured for facility construction at Blanche Pope – enough for infrastructure and two initial classrooms – and that design work is nearly complete. She noted that it was never the intent to keep students at Blanche Pope through 8th grade, but rather to have them transition to Waimānalo Intermediate with their peers within a Kaiapuni classroom. She deferred to the parents on what they feel is best and committed to continued advocacy.
3. Support for Resolution and Land Rights Emphasis: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo expressed support for the resolution idea and committed to keeping the item on the next agenda and ensuring Chair Kane receives the memo. He also emphasized that the land is Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) property belonging to beneficiaries of the 1920 Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, and that any Department of Education license agreement obligates the state to act in accordance with the law for the betterment of Native Hawaiians — who alone have the right to determine what is best for themselves and their ʻāina (land).

7) ELECTED OFFICIALS’ REPORTS – [2:16:13]

a) Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina – [2:16:20]: Councilmember Kiaʻāina highlighted the federal Native Hawaiian Education Act (in existence since 1988 and funded at approximately $46 million), encouraging all eligible schools and community organizations to apply and advocate for equitable funding. She provided updates on several Waimānalo projects in the Mayor’s budget: Hihimanu Street flood control for the fire station and wastewater facilities plan; Hihimanu Street speed mitigation bidding is expected to go out before the end of April 2026; Laumilo Street speed mitigation mapping is underway and a community petition will follow; and the Waimānalo Beach Park pump track planning is moving forward with support from Chuck Mitsui of the Association of Skateboarders and Ahonui Works, with a revised location under consideration.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:22:13]
1. Pump Track Community Petition and Next Steps: Member Kamahalohanuilai asked whether a petition was circulated for the pump track. Councilmember Kiaʻāina clarified that no petition is required for the pump track – the petition process applies to speed mitigation measures requiring 90% resident sign-off. She confirmed that the pump track planning is moving forward with a revised location and community advocates, with funding strategy still being developed.
2. Pump Track Status Clarification: Member Kamahalohanuilai asked Councilmember Kiaʻāina to define what “moving forward” means for the pump track. Councilmember Kiaʻāina clarified that the planning process is progressing, that the location at the district park has been revised, and that funding sources are being finalized with the help of experienced advocates familiar with similar projects on Oʻahu.

b) State Senator Chris Lee – [2:28:01]: No representative present.

c) State Representative Lisa Marten – [2:28:12]: Representative Marten announced a Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) community event at the Waimānalo Public Library on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. She noted that the University of Hawaiʻi Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Response Team will provide free traps and palm tree netting and offer education on biocontrol research underway to suppress the beetle using a targeted virus. She encouraged palm tree owners to attend and share with neighbors. Lastly, she noted the Legislature is at crossover and invited community members to engage on Human Services and homelessness matters.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:31:49]
1. Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Threat to Native Hawaiian Cultural Identity: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo expressed deep concern that the state’s inadequate response to the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) threatens not just the coconut tree but the broader erasure of Native Hawaiian cultural identity, ceremonial practices, and food sovereignty, warning that if canoe crops continue to be lost one by one, the constitutional and statutory protections afforded to Native Hawaiians become meaningless. He called on the community to show up, get educated, and organize in support of continued advocacy.

d) Governor Josh Green’s Office – [2:34:50]: No representative present.

e) Congressmember Jill Tokuda – [2:35:02]: No representative present.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QNc_nD9MSTeVbn5QLR-xvXLP5gwaslFo/view?usp=drive_link

8) BOARD BUSINESS – [2:35:45]

a) Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes, Monday, January 12, 2026 – [2:35:46]: No amendments were presented. The minutes were approved as distributed.

b) Dog Friendly Parks Proposal Consideration and Discussion – [2:36:07]: The item was deferred with no opposition.

c) Position on RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE IMPROVEMENT OF WAIMĀNALO AFFORDABLE APARTMENTS – [2:36:27]: Member Hōkū Akana noted that she submitted amendments to ensure the resolution reflects the board’s commitment to income-appropriate rents and protects current residents from potential displacement following improvements. The item was deferred to the next meeting with no opposition.

d) Update on Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Interim Rules – [2:37:29]: Wayne Tanaka, Sierra Club of Hawaiʻi, provided a brief update on coconut rhinoceros beetle spread across Oʻahu since initial larval findings in Waikoloa in 2023. He also noted that despite a voluntary movement restriction order, coconut rhinoceros beetle has spread to Pālamanui, Kīholo, and near the airport and a petition for interim rules was submitted to the Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity requesting compliance agreements for moving coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) host material. Lastly, he shared that the anticipated final approval date for the interim rules is Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:40:13]
1. Enforcement Concerns and Cultural Impact: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo expressed concern that compliance agreements without enforcement will be ineffective, emphasizing that the spread of coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) represents a cultural and existential threat to Native Hawaiian identity, traditions, and food sources tied to the coconut and other canoe crops.

[2:43:04] Member Mokulehua MOVED and Member Kamahalohanuilai SECONDED to approve the recommendation for the Chair of the Waimānalo Neighborhood Board, or assigned designee, to provide testimony regarding invasive species and management as they arise. The motion was ADOPTED; 7-0-0. (Aye: H. Akana, K. Akana, Kamahalohanuilai, Kamakea-ʻŌhelo, McKeague, Mokulehua, Wong; Nay: none; Abstain: none) – [2:45:38]

9) MEETING ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:46:22]

a) Neighborhood Commission Office Announcements – [2:46:42]: Neighborhood Assistant Melissa Urubio announced that the City and County of Honolulu and the Hawaiʻi Foodbank are partnering to fight hunger and donated canned goods will be collected at the next Neighborhood Board meeting on Monday, April 13, 2026.

b) Next Regular Meeting Announcement – [2:47:15]: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo announced that the next Waimānalo Neighborhood Board No. 32 Regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 13, 2026.

c) 2026 ʻŌlelo Broadcast Schedule – [2:47:26]: The Waimānalo Neighborhood Board No. 32 meetings are broadcast on ʻŌlelo Channel 49 on the fourth (4th) Monday of the month at 9:00 p.m. and on the first (1st) and third (3rd) Saturdays of the month at 3:00 p.m.

10) ADJOURNMENT, CLOSING REMARKS, & PULE – [2:47:48]: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo called for the closing pule. Member Wong volunteered and offered the closing pule. The meeting was adjourned at 9:47 p.m.

Submitted by: Melissa Urubio, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, NCO
Finalized by: Kimeona Kane, Chair

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.