WAIMĀNALO NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 32

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA OF THE WAIMĀNALO NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD #32
MONDAY, AUGUST 10, 2026, at 7:00 P.M.

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

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MEETING INFORMATION
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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 – #23 Aia a kau ka iʻa i ka waʻa, manaʻo ke ola. One can think of life after the fish is in the canoe. Before one feels elated and makes plans, he should first secure his “fish”.
e) Lohe i ke Kūpuna/ʻŌpio

2) FILLING ONE AT LARGE VACANCY
3) 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, District 2 Lieutenant Aka Tamashiro
d) Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) – Preston Kamauʻu, preston.k.kamauu@hawaii.gov

4) 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
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 Groups / Community Services Reports
i) Waimānalo Health Center – Jasmine Lefiti, JLefiti@waimanalohealth.org
ii) Waimānalo Hawaiian Homestead Association – Kenneth Ho, kianiani@gmail.com
iii) Pono ʻOluʻolu – Mialisa Otis, ponooluolu@gmail.com
c) Military Reports
i) Bellows Air Force Station – Major Eric Johnson, eric.johnson.138@us.af.mil
ii) Marine Corps Base Hawaii – 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) Global Preservation Initiative Inc. – Aaron Magee Founder, Executive Director Aaron.Magee@GlobalPreservationInitaitive.org, (808) 366-8364 (5 minutes)
b) 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) Congress Jill Tokuda, https://tokuda.house.gov/

8) BOARD BUSINESS
a) Approval of Monday, July 13, 2026 Regular Waimānalo Neighborhood Board #32 Meeting Minutes
b) Response to Section 106 RE: SUBJECT: INITIATION OF CONSULTATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 106 OF THE NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACT FOR THE WAIMANALO PUBLIC LIBRARY SOLAR CHARGING STATION PROJECT, WAIMANALO AHUPUA‘A, KOʻOLAUPOKO DISTRICT, ISLAND OF O‘AHU (TMK: (1) 4-1-009:012)
c) Request the Department of Parks and Recreation to add native trees to the Waimānalo Beach Park along Kalanianaʻole Highway.
d) Request the Department of Parks and Recreation to remove non-native Iron Wood trees and replace them with native trees along the tree line at Waimānalo Beach Park.
e) Request the Department of Parks and Recreation to identify with signage, delineate and place necessary protection measures to preserve Puʻu a Kahaʻi at Kaupō Beach Park.
f) Send a letter of invitation to the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority (NELHA) nelha@nelha.hawaii.gov regarding restoring public access to Mākai Research Pier.
g) Submitting a letter to the Department of Facilities Maintenance, or other(s) who are responsible for clearing rock from channelized canals in Waimānalo, to ensure it is offered back to the community.
h) Submitting a letter to appropriate representatives, departments, offices, or other, regarding a review of the following bridges/culverts to ensure safety of the public.
i) Hīhīmanu Street- One lane bridge near the Waimānalo Transfer Station
ii) Hīhīmanu Street- Culvert at the south end of Waimānalo District Park
iii) Hīhīmanu Street- Culvert north of Hui Mālama O Ke Kai
iv) Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi, Bellows Air Force Base

9) MEETING ANNOUNCEMENTS – Chair Kimeona Kane (Five (5) minutes)
a) Neighborhood Commission Office Announcements – Neighborhood Board Assistant Melissa Urubio
i) REVISED Neighborhood Board Member Guidebook comments due by Monday, August 17, 2026.
b) The next Waimānalo Neighborhood Board No. 32 Regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 14, 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.
d) Upcoming meetings
i) Oʻahu Historic Preservation Commission
ii) Honolulu Charter Commission
iii) Board of Land and Natural Resources

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

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
MONDAY, JULY 13, 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=2XAteeih3Mc

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

CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:50]: A resident offered the opening pule in Hawaiian. Chair Pro Tem Kane called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. He welcomed attendees and reviewed the Rules for Engagement, Sunshine Law reminders, aloha expectations, and emergency exit information.

Roll Call – [0:04:45]: Neighborhood Board Assistant Melissa Urubio conducted roll call. Seven members were present at the start of the meeting and quorum WAS ESTABLISHED. Note: This 13-member Board requires seven members to establish a quorum and to take official action.

Members Present: Hōkū Akana, Kukui Akana, Kimeona Kane, Jehnna McKeague, Kapiʻolani Nee, Karin O’Mahony, Ted Ralston, Kūʻike Kamakea-ʻŌhelo (7:10 p.m.), Lillie Makaila (7:12 p.m.), and Lourdes Millan (7:15 p.m.).

Members Absent: Moeʻata Mokulehua and Brenda Wong.

Guests: Captain David Schubert (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Drew Akagi and Captain Michael Campbell (Honolulu Police Department); Lieutenant Aka Tamashiro (City and County of Honolulu Ocean Safety Department); Danielle Ornellas (Board of Water Supply); Director Laura Thielen (Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative); Casey Abe (Hawaiʻi State Department of Transportation); Ilima Ho-Lastimosa (University of Hawaiʻi, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources); Julie Dugan (Hawaiʻi Job Corps); Jasmine Lefiti (Waimānalo Health Center); Meagan Ostrem, Colonel Steve DeTrinis, and Sergeant Major Adan Moreno (Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi); Amber Unabia (City and County of Honolulu Refuse Division, G.R.O.W. program); Chris Salas (Hawaiʻi Bicycling League); Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina; Director Dawn Apuna (Department of Planning and Permitting); Director Anton Krucky (Department of Community Services); Seiji Ogawa and Barry Cheung (State Department of Land and Natural Resources, Land Division); Jun Yang (Statewide Office on Homelessness and Housing Solutions); Duane Kurisu, Mel Kaneshiro, Dexter Kubota, and Lloyd Sueda (Mahiʻai Development LLC and Project Team); Kanela Kamahalohanuilai, Mialisa Otis, Cindy Parker, Tracey Parker, Hiwa Rodenhurst, Pookela Rodenhurst, and Joshua Fuller (Pono ʻOluʻolu); State Senator Chris Lee; State Representative Lisa Marten; Randi Jeung (Governor Josh Green’s Office); Tolua Samifua (Office of Congresswoman Jill Tokuda); Bobby Silva, Steve Haumschild, Michael Kama, and Lauren Kapoliahiiaka Shim, Johnnie-Mae L. Perry, Gloria Gaines, Gloria Palma, Iza Sampaga, Jayna Perry, Josh Nagashima, Kathy Conner, Kaʻipo Maikai-Kahanaoi, Duchess Maikai, Chelsea Smith, Scotty Wong, Vikki Samson, Von Galdeira, Taylor Campbell, Deborah Smith, Keelan Miyamoto, Pearl Powell, Sherri and Paul Vega, Michele Kaeo, Micah Kalama, Kalia McKeague, Mahe Kaleohano, Rocky Raquedan, Rosemary Kaleleiki-Rollins, Keith Rollins, Kalani K., and Maggie B. (Residents and Community Members); ʻŌlelo Virtual; Melissa Urubio (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Names were not included if not legible or did not participate in the discussion. There were approximately 94 participants.

ʻŌlelo Noʻeau o ka Mahina – [0:06:18]: Chair Pro Tem Kane shared ʻŌlelo Noʻeau o ka Mahina #22 – Ahuwale nā pali kahakai o Kamilo. Exposed are the sea cliffs at Kamilo Beach; said of a woman who sits carelessly and exposes herself. Kamilo Beach is in Kaʻū.

Lohe i ke Kūpuna/ʻŌpio – [0:06:39]: Chair Pro Tem Kane invited any kūpuna or ʻōpio present or online to share a message. No volunteers.

FILLING ONE AT-LARGE VACANCY – [0:07:52]: Chair Pro Tem Kane called for nominations to fill one at-large vacancy on the Board. Hearing no nominations from those present or online, the item was deferred to a future meeting.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS TO SERVE JULY 2026 TO JUNE 30, 2027 – [0:08:27]: Chair Pro Tem Kane explained that the officers to be elected are the Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer.

Member Kamakea-ʻŌhelo joined the meeting at 7:10 p.m. – 8 members present.

Chair – [0:08:54]: Member Hōkū Akana nominated Chair Pro Tem Kane. Hearing no other nominations, Chair Pro Tem Kane accepted the nomination. Chair Pro Tem Kane was ELECTED Chair, 8-0-0 (Aye: H. Akana, K. Akana, Kamakea-ʻŌhelo, Kane, McKeague, Nee, O’Mahony, Ralston; Nay: none; Abstain: none) – [0:11:50]

Member Makaila joined the meeting at 7:12 p.m. – 9 members present.

Vice Chair – [0:11:56]: Member Hōkū Akana nominated Member Kamakea-ʻŌhelo, who accepted. Hearing no other nominations, Member Kamakea-ʻŌhelo was ELECTED Vice Chair, 9-0-0 (Aye: H. Akana, K. Akana, Kamakea-ʻŌhelo, Kane, Makaila, McKeague, Nee, O’Mahony, Ralston; Nay: none; Abstain: none) – [0:13:44]
Member Millan joined the meeting at 7:15 p.m. – 10 members present.
Secretary – [0:13:47]: Member McKeague nominated Member Mokulehua but was not present to accept. Kukui Akana was also nominated and accepted. Kukui Akana was ELECTED Secretary, 10-0-0 (Aye: H. Akana, K. Akana, Kamakea-ʻŌhelo, Kane, Makaila, McKeague, Millan, Nee, O’Mahony, Ralston; Nay: none; Abstain: none) – [0:18:13]

Treasurer – [0:18:21]: Member Makaila nominated Member O’Mahony, who accepted. O’Mahony was ELECTED Treasurer, 10-0-0 (Aye: H. Akana, K. Akana, Kamakea-ʻŌhelo, Kane, Makaila, McKeague, Millan, Nee, O’Mahony, Ralston; Nay: none; Abstain: none) – [0:20:40]
Note: The video recording announces 11 votes, but the actual vote count was 10.

EMERGENCY PROVIDERS REPORT – [0:20:45]

Honolulu Fire Department – [0:20:53]: Captain David Schubert reported June 2026 statistics: 39 medical calls, 3 nuisance fires, and 2 brush fires. He shared a hiking safety tip for the summer season, encouraging residents to plan ahead, check trail conditions and weather, stay on marked trails, and hike with a buddy.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15rFX0uS7SCmIptRpQFGSDPNt2gmB-2rz/view?usp=drive_link

Honolulu Police Department – [0:22:10]: Lieutenant Drew Akagi reported June 2026 statistics: 2 motor vehicle thefts (up from 0), 1 burglary (same as prior month), 5 thefts (same as prior month), 0 car break-ins (down from 2), 0 robberies (same as prior month), and 526 calls for service (up from 462). He noted increased enforcement during the summer, historically one of the deadliest periods for traffic fatalities.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:23:23]
1. Honolulu Police Department Response: Member Millan thanked the Honolulu Police Department for a fast, effective response to an incident on her farm late at night.
2. Community and Public Safety Priorities: Resident Kanela Kamahalohanuilai asked how important community and public safety are to HPD and whether officers are prepared for a potential increase in the houseless population. Lieutenant Akagi affirmed that community safety is top priority and the department would work with the community to better prepare as needs are identified.
3. District 4 Commander: Lieutenant Akagi introduced Captain Michael Campbell, District 4 Commander, who greeted the community and thanked residents for their engagement.

City and County of Honolulu Ocean Safety Department – [0:27:08]: Lieutenant Aka Tamashiro reported that June 2026 saw back-to-back south swells keeping China Walls and Sandy Beach active, with a jet ski rescuing several people and an extensive multi-day search that failed to locate a missing father and son off Hanauma Bay, though no fatalities or serious injuries occurred. He noted improving communication with the canoe club and cited June 2026 totals of nearly 700 calls for service involving 17,854 people, about 15,000 preventive actions, over 2,000 minor medical aids, 145 rescues, 10 major medical aids,14 vessel-related calls and a few missing people shoreline searches.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:32:37]
1. Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR)/Commercial Kayak Operator Responsibility: Member Ralston asked whether the Department of Land and Natural Resources or the commercial kayak operator near the Mokulua Islands bears any heightened safety responsibility beyond an individual citizen. Lieutenant Tamashiro said commercial operators generally cooperate by halting rentals during high surf but was uncertain of their exact legal obligations, suggesting the question may be better directed to the Department of Land and Natural Resources.
2. Missing Father and Son Search Route: Resident Johnnie-Mae Perry asked whether search efforts extended toward Yokohama Bay. Lieutenant Tamashiro confirmed searches covered both directions, including a C-130 grid search and continuous helicopter coverage with Honolulu Fire Department and the Coast Guard.

Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) – [0:36:35]: No representative present.

PUBLIC AGENCIES’ REPORT – [0:36:42]: Chair Kane asked that, due to a full agenda and limited time, questions for Public Agencies and Community Organization Reports be submitted in writing so answers could be provided afterward.

Board of Water Supply – [0:37:35]: Danielle Ornellas (808-748-5335/808-748-5041) reported three May 2026 water main breaks (a 20-inch main and two 8-inch mains installed in 1960, 1973 and 2016). She noted the Board’s biannual water quality testing reports (mailed each July and December, also available at boardofwater.com) and announced the annual Xeriscape Plant Sale on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Hālawa Xeriscape Garden.

Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [0:40:19]: Director Laura Thielen reported that the Honolulu Emergency Services Department’s third annual mass casualty incident preparedness conference drew roughly 300 attendees, and that the Department of Transportation Services is working to lower school-zone speed limits from 25 to 20 mph citywide during school hours. She also shared ongoing coordination with Ocean Safety on a proposed equipment storage facility at Hūnānāniho Beach Park.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Q1fgvSl9izYSr2gg1t4DpKOihdz8WZAt/view?usp=drive_link

Hawaiʻi State Department of Transportation – [0:43:31]: Casey Abe reported that maintenance crews trimmed overgrowth blocking the pedestrian sidewalk near Inoaole Street on Kalanianaʻole Highway, addressed graffiti and missing signage, and coordinated with a resident who had secured a fallen pedestrian crossing sign for reinstallation. He also noted ongoing efforts with the homeless coordinator to keep bicycles clear of the paved shoulder for safety.

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS REPORTS – [0:44:56]

Education Reports – [0:45:03]

Waimānalo Elementary and Intermediate School – [0:45:04]: Chair Kane read a written report on behalf of the school highlighting learning-target and feedback initiatives, a new-teacher orientation, an emphasis on reading, an upcoming Hawaiian-language Kaiapuni pathway, and a “meet and greet” event scheduled for Friday, July 31, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Blanche Pope Elementary School, Kula Kaiapuni o Waimānalo – [0:47:23]: No representative present.

Mālama Honua Public Charter School – [0:47:30]: No representative present.

Kula Kaiapuni o Kailua – [0:47:39]: Member H. Akana noted the school is not expecting a new freshman (kindergarten) class for two more years and is currently focused on building out its 7th-grade cohort.

Hui Mālama O Ke Kai – [0:48:30]: No representative present.

Windward Community College – [0:48:35]: No representative present.

University of Hawaiʻi, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources – [0:48:57]: Ilima Ho-Lastimosa reported a busy summer with numerous site visits including summer research institute students.
Hawaiʻi Job Corps – [0:49:51]: Julie Dugan reported the program is at about 85% capacity with strong funding for next year and several current job openings, including residential advisor, maintenance, and food service positions.

Community Services Reports – [0:50:30]

Waimānalo Health Center – [0:50:36]: Jasmine Lefiti followed up on a prior month’s question, clarifying that career-position applicants must have a high school diploma or GED.

Waimānalo Hawaiian Homestead Association – [0:50:58]: No representative present.

Military Reports – [0:51:06]

Bellows Air Force Station – [0:51:07]: No representative present. Chair Kane read a written update announcing a Restoration Advisory Board meeting on Wednesday July 29, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the Bellows Reservation Building conference room, for which registration is required.

Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi – [0:52:14]: Meagan Ostrem introduced new Commanding Officer Colonel Steve DeTrinis and Sergeant Major Adan Moreno. Colonel DeTrinis described the base’s core missions of readiness, protection of families and infrastructure, and integration with joint and community partners. Sergeant Major Moreno shared that he is on his second tour in Hawaiʻi and expressed his love for Hawaiʻi. Lastly, Meagan Ostrem noted announcements including a Bellows Beach July 2026 closure for the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) training, recent vandalism and fence-cutting at the Bellows training area, and community participation in the recent canoe regatta at Kāneʻohe Bay.

Hawaiʻi Army National Guard – [0:57:04]: No representative present.

RESIDENT/COMMUNITY CONCERNS & ANNOUNCEMENTS/PUBLIC REPORTS – [0:57:09]

G.R.O.W. (Green Recycling Organic Waste) Presentation – [0:57:52]: Amber Unabia, City and County of Honolulu Refuse Division, presented on the G.R.O.W. food-waste and green-waste collection program, explaining household sorting tips, self-drop options at Hawaiian Earth Recycling in Wahiawā, and the composting process at Hawaiian Earth Recycling. She noted that island-wide rollout is planned for Thursday, October 1, 2026, with educational materials available at honolulu.gov/env/grow.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1U4rsw8jpcWek3K1ZqdX9XKDKqe3-alU-/view?usp=drive_link

Honolulu Century Ride – [1:04:20]: Christopher Salas, Hawaiʻi Bicycling League, announced the 43rd annual Honolulu Century Ride on Sunday, September 27, 2026, and the 14th annual Waimānalo Backroads Cleanup on Saturday, August 15, 2026, meeting at Waimānalo District Park.

Dick Evans Memorial Road Race – [1:04:54]: No representative present. Chair Kane read an announcement of the Dick Evans Memorial Road Race, a 112-mile bicycle race circling Oʻahu on Sunday, August 23, 2026.

Community Announcements – [1:06:29]: Resident Kalani announced the 11th annual Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea event on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., featuring vendors, speakers, and entertainment. Member McKeague, on behalf of the Waimānalo Warriors, announced that the program is recruiting boys for its 8U/10U tackle football team, with practices Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Waimānalo Beach Park.

Hui Mahiʻai ʻĀina Project Update – [1:09:08]: Chair Kane explained the segment was organized, with the assistance of Councilmember Kiaʻāina, to have relevant department heads clarify facts about the Hui Mahiʻai ʻĀina project given significant community confusion and misinformation.
• Councilmember Kiaʻāina explained that Hui Mahiʻai ʻĀina is the non-profit, led by Auntie Blanche, which originally sought an agricultural lease with the Department of Land and Natural Resources beginning around 2013. She noted that the project pivoted during COVID-19 toward addressing houselessness, with management of the state land subsequently transferred to the Department of Human Services’ Statewide Office on Homelessness and Housing Solutions, which leases the parcel to the project developer, Mahiʻai Development LLC. She stated she had spoken with the Governor’s chief of staff, who confirmed awareness of community concerns.
• Director Dawn Takeuchi Apuna (Department of Planning and Permitting) explained that while the project proceeds under the Governor’s Emergency Proclamation (EP), which allows certain requirements to be expedited—her department continues to oversee compliance in several areas. These include the retaining wall (built without a permit but reportedly within the property line), flood-zone compliance, grading and grubbing (also done without a permit but monitored), and historic preservation review, which requires State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) archaeological monitoring.
• Director Anton Krucky (Department of Community Services) said the City considers this a state-led project but has budgeted up to $2 million toward homeless services in the area, to be awarded through a public solicitation later this summer, citing 192 individuals experiencing homelessness counted in the Waimānalo-to-Kāneʻohe area in the most recent point-in-time count.
• Seiji Ogawa (Department of Land and Natural Resources, Land Division) explained that the Department of Land and Natural Resources retains title to the land as public trust land, transferred management via executive order to Department of Human Services in February 2026, which in turn leases the site to the developer.
• Jun Yang, Statewide Office on Homelessness and Housing Solutions, explained that the property is managed through the Department of Human Services under the Governor’s executive order, with developer Mahiʻai Development LLC using emergency provisions to expedite—not waive—items like historic preservation review and flood mitigation. He emphasized that this is a joint state, city, and nonprofit effort to serve the Windward community that has been presented to the community and board for several years.
• Duane Kurisu and Lloyd Sueda (architect) of Mahiʻai Development LLC described the project, Hui Mahiʻai Village, as 116 homes plus a library, clinic, live-in nurse, multi-purpose room, classroom building, kitchen, dining room, and laundry facility to ultimately be gifted to Hui Mahiʻai ʻĀina upon completion. They stated the project still requires a building permit and certificate of occupancy despite the emergency proclamation, that all applicable building, mechanical, and electrical codes will be followed, and that a drainage line is planned to address flooding concerns raised after recent Kona storms. Mel Kaneshiro, part of the development group, explained that under the Emergency Proclamation, State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) requirements work differently—allowing the project to proceed while continuing the process with State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) and ultimately submitting a report on everything done, which they are currently in the process of completing. Dexter Kubota clarified that a recent one-foot elevation increase (from 11.8 feet to 12.8 feet) reflects a new citywide flood-freeboard requirement (Bill 34) rather than an error in the original design, and that the building site itself was surveyed and found to sit outside the flood zone. Architect Lloyd Sueda emphasized that health and safety will not be compromised.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:32:56]
1. Clarifying the Purpose of the Update: Chair Kane clarified that the meeting was not intended as a town hall on the project but rather a chance to hear directly from decision-makers, and while not every question can be addressed, there will still be an opportunity for some.
2. Community Meeting Invitation: Resident Kanela invited the project team to attend the Pono ʻOluʻolu Waimānalo community informational meeting on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the Waimānalo Hawaiian Homestead Association.
3. Request for Independent Audit: Resident Kanela asked whether the Department of Human Services would authorize an independent comprehensive audit of the Mahiʻai Development LLC/AIO Foundation/Hui Mahiʻai ʻĀina contract given public reporting involving former state officials associated with the original lease. Jun Yang clarified that the lease was created between the Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Department of Human Services, not due to any specific action by the individual referenced, and said the matter would be brought back to their attorneys for review. Duane Kurisu shared that the project uses both public and private funds and expects to be, and welcomes being, audited.
4. Emergency Proclamation Scope and Homelessness Progress: Resident Sherry Vega questioned why the project remains incomplete after multiple 60-day Emergency Proclamation extensions and questioned the pace of progress on houselessness. Director Apuna clarified that the Emergency Proclamation allows the developer to expedite certain permitting requirements, and that the Department of Planning and Permitting continues to monitor compliance. She also responded that the project is one effort aimed at addressing the homelessness crisis by providing housing.
5. Fill Depth and Retaining Wall: Residents pressed the project team on discrepancies regarding the amount of fill placed on site and the purpose of the retaining wall. Dexter Kubota clarified the additional one foot of fill was required by a new City flood-freeboard code (Bill 34), not an increase to the original design. Duane Kurisu reiterated that a topographical survey found the building area to be outside the mapped flood zone.
6. Land Title Transfer: A resident argued that neither a proclamation nor an executive order transfers title, and insisted that beneficiaries under the crown must not be displaced by the project. Duane Kurisu responded by confirming that the property title did not transfer—only a lease was created.
7. Beneficiary Status of Future Residents: A resident asked whether all future residents of the project would be Native Hawaiian beneficiaries. Aunty Blanche stated that 98.9% would be. Jun Yang clarified that the parcel is not a Department of Hawaiian Home Lands parcel, but is instead under the management and executive responsibility of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.
8. Beneficiary and Agricultural Lands: Mialisa Otis stated that there has been encroachment on beneficiaries and agricultural lands, and accused officials of overstepping their roles.
9. Retaining Wall Breach of Contract: Mialisa Otis asked whether construction of the retaining wall has been determined to be a breach of contract, and if so, what corrective action is required. Director Apuna stated there is no City or State contract that the wall could breach, though a permit is still required. Dexter Kubota added that the retaining wall was constructed within the property line.
10. Future Town Hall: Chair Kane acknowledged the project has caused significant community chaos despite good intentions, and announced that the Governor’s office will take the lead in organizing a future town hall (with at least a month’s notice) while committing to collect and respond to community questions in the meantime.

Statements of Candidacy – [1:57:51]: As a courtesy, the Chair Kane invited several individuals running for elected office to briefly address the community: Bobby Silva (State Senate District 25); Steve Haumschild (State House District 51); Michael Kalama (Waimānalo resident and candidate); and Lauren Kapoliahiiaka Shim (Democratic candidate for Governor), each of whom spoke briefly about their platforms and connection to the Waimānalo community.

ELECTED OFFICIALS’ REPORTS – [2:05:39]

Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina – [2:05:55]: Councilmember Kiaʻāina announced two zoning committee resolutions before the City Council on Thursday, July 16, 2026 (Resolutions 26-159 and 26-160) urging the state Board of Land and Natural Resources and the Legislature, respectively, to prohibit commercial aquarium harvesting of aquatic life in State waters, with a full Council hearing set for Wednesday, August 12, 2026. She also announced a Land Conservation Workshop for non-profits on Monday, August 17, 2026, at Hale ʻĀkoakoa Windward Community College, and a Windward wildfire preparedness town hall on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Kailua Intermediate School.

State Senator Chris Lee – [2:09:17]: Senator Lee reported passing a record 27 bills and resolutions this session for the community, including measures to address ticket-resale price gouging and to reduce energy and transportations costs. He also shared new community-event funding, new conservation sanctuaries for native species, solar and battery storage for Waimānalo Health Center (projected to save about $35,000/month), funding for a new Mālama Honua administrative building, consolidation of Department of Land and Natural Resources invasive-species operations on a newly acquired Windward campus, $1.5 million for school cooling/tree programs, and a first-in-Hawaiʻi bill canceling medical debt for roughly 50,000 families statewide (about 2,000 locally).

State Representative Lisa Marten – [2:13:55]: Representative Marten highlighted recent community beach cleanups supported by State debris-removal funding, congratulated Chair Kane on recognition by the Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Council, and detailed free Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle prevention supplies available at crbhawaii.org/community. As chair of the House Human Services Committee, she cited legislative wins including shoring up Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid funding. She also noted a new ban on flavored and disposable vapes, expanded kūpuna care and dementia research funding, a newly permanent kūpuna rent subsidy (about $500/month), and continued flooding-mitigation work including a newly approved Phase 2 Army Corps of Engineers study and a new House flood-prevention working group.

Governor Josh Green’s Office – [2:22:28]: Randi Jeung reported on Operation Hoʻopauahi to expand wildfire response capability, expanded trauma-informed care training for State workers, and the opening of the State’s 100th public preschool, with a goal of universal public preschool access by 2032. She also confirmed that the Hui Mahiʻai ʻĀina town hall request would be relayed to and coordinated by the Governor’s office.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TrF3vZ49hwyVYshkbOh6XVkvHAunY8q4/view?usp=drive_link

Congresswoman Jill Tokuda’s Office – [2:24:58]: Tolua Samifua was present online but did not come off mute to report.

BOARD BUSINESS – [2:25:44]

Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes for Monday, April 13, 2026; Monday, May 11, 2026; and Monday, June 8, 2026 – [2:25:56]: Hearing no corrections, all three sets of minutes were APPROVED as drafted; 10-0-0 (Aye: H. Akana, K. Akana, Kamakea-ʻŌhelo, Kane, Makaila, McKeague, Millan, Nee, O’Mahony, Ralston; Nay: none; Abstain: none) – [2:26:38]

Letter to Glenn Okamoto (State Department of Agriculture and Biodiversity), Anson Murayama, and Jolyn Ohta (Community Planning and Engineering, Inc.) regarding the Waimānalo Reservoir Miscellaneous Improvements Declaration of Exemption (DOASW16-A) – [2:26:40]: The Board voted to approve and submit a letter to Glenn Okamoto (State Department of Agriculture) opposing the proposed declaration of exemption for the Waimānalo Reservoir improvements project and instead urging that a full environmental assessment be conducted.

[2:28:11] Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo MOVED and Member Makaila SECONDED to submit a letter urging the requirement of a full Environmental Assessment rather than a Declaration of Exemption. The motion was ADOPTED; 10-0-0 (Aye: H. Akana, K. Akana, Kamakea-ʻŌhelo, Kane, Makaila, McKeague, Millan, Nee, O’Mahony, Ralston; Nay: none; Abstain: none) – [2:28:51]

Community Climate Mandate for East Oʻahu (CCM-EO) – [2:28:58]: Aloha McGuffie provided an update that the initiative has completed presentations to all 6 East Oʻahu Neighborhood Boards and is transitioning into an implementation phase, retitled EO CAN (East Oʻahu Community Action Network), incorporating an ʻĀina Aloha Economic Futures scorecard. No board position was taken. Hearing no objections, the Board agreed to review and submit written comments once a revised framework document is circulated.

Update Previous Position on Aquarium Collection of Native Reef Fish – [2:34:56]: Chair Kane raised the question of whether the Board wanted to update its prior position opposing commercial aquarium collection of native fish in light of newer developments, including 15 permits currently being processed.

[2:36:01] Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo MOVED and Member Makaila SECONDED to reaffirm the Board’s existing position opposing commercial aquarium collection of native reef fish, in light of a pending permit request for 15 collection permits, and to direct the Chair or a representative to submit testimony as necessary.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:36:36]
1. Board Support on Aquarium Fish Collection Legislation: Senator Chris Lee, who chairs the Water and Land Committee, thanked the Board for its support and emphasized that community and Board backing—especially from Homestead communities and on cultural grounds—was crucial to nearly passing related legislation this year and remains important moving forward.

[2:37:15] Chair Kane called for the vote. The motion was ADOPTED; 10-0-0 (Aye: H. Akana, K. Akana, Kamakea-ʻŌhelo, Kane, Makaila, McKeague, Millan, Nee, O’Mahony, Ralston; Nay: none; Abstain: none) – [2:37:32]

[2:37:52] Hearing no objections, Chair Kane noted that items regarding native tree planting and ironwood removal at Waimānalo Beach Park, protection of Puʻu a Kahaʻi at Kaupō Beach Park, a letter of invitation to Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaiʻi Authority (NELHA) regarding Mākai Research Pier access, a letter to the Department of Facilities Maintenance regarding canal debris, and a letter regarding bridge/culvert safety reviews were DEFERRED to a future meeting due to time constraints.

Pono ʻOluʻolu Community Update – [2:38:28]: Resident Kanela reported that Pono ʻOluʻolu will hold a Waimānalo community informational meeting on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the Waimānalo Hawaiian Homestead Association. She also noted the group’s ongoing coordination with Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) on a complaint process for beneficiaries affected by flooding, encroachment, or the retaining wall, and that its petition to protect beneficiary and agricultural lands has surpassed 500 signatures.

MEETING ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:42:15]

Neighborhood Commission Office Announcements – [2:42:17]: Chair Pro Tem Kane asked members to collect outstanding materials and addressed concerns about inappropriate personal remarks made in the public WebEx chat during the meeting, reminding participants of their responsibility for their words.

Next Regular Meeting – [2:43:18]: Chair Kane announced that the next Waimānalo Neighborhood Board No. 32 Regular Meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 10, 2026.

2026 ʻŌlelo Broadcast Schedule – [2:43:25]: Chair Kane announced that the Waimānalo Neighborhood Board No. 32 meetings are broadcast on ʻŌlelo Channel 49 on the fourth Monday of the month at 9:00 p.m. and on the first and third Saturdays of the month at 3:00 p.m.

Accessibility Request – [2:43:44]: Chair Kane asked the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) to look into securing sign language interpretation for Board meetings—noting a willing resident volunteer—in order to ensure accessibility for blind and deaf community members.

ADJOURNMENT, CLOSING REMARKS, & PULE – [2:44:35]: Vice Chair Kamakea-ʻŌhelo closed the meeting with pule. Chair Kane adjourned the meeting at 9:45 p.m.

Submitted by: Melissa Urubio, Neighborhood Assistant, Neighborhood Commission Office
Reviewed by: Rachel Cristobal, Neighborhood Assistant, Neighborhood Commission Office
Finalized by: [To be completed]

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.