MAKAKILO – KAPOLEI – HONOKAI HALE NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 34

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2026 AT 7:00 P.M.
KAPOLEI HALE – CONFERENCE ROOMS A & B
1000 ULUʻŌHIʻA STREET, KAPOLEI, HI 96707
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=mf0b7927dbd4f6a05349de9ab6992f058
Meeting Number / Access Code: 2488 618 7925
Password: NB34 (6234 when dialing from a phone or video system)
Join by Phone: +1-408-418-9388 United States Toll

Google Drive Link: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1GE3KMhGmxV2jxDLUnSvRUvThmykz8vGn
Neighborhood Board Meeting Recordings: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice

MEETING RULES AND GUIDELINES
1. Order and Decorum: Meetings are conducted with fairness, order, and in compliance with the Neighborhood Plan 2008 (NP). Participants must treat each other with respect and share aloha, stay focused on the agenda, and adhere to time limits. Please silence electronic devices and keep yourself on mute if on WebEx until you are recognized by the Chair. Disruptive behavior or violations may result in removal (NP §2-14-117).
2. Requesting to Speak: To speak, raise your hand in person or online via WebEx. Once recognized by the Chair, direct comments to the Chair and stay on the agenda topic (NP §2-14-118(a)).
3. Reports and Presentations: Reports and presentations should be limited to 10 minutes unless otherwise specified. The Chair may allow public questions (Auth: NP §2-14-123(2)). Neighborhood Board members are allowed to discuss, ask questions, and receive information as outlined in the agenda, as well as receive additional information without providing comments (Agenda Guidance for Neighborhood Boards, CORR 2024-0718-01, p. 3-5). Speakers online on WebEx are encouraged to either have their cameras turned on, share their slides during their presentations, or both (adopted September 24, 2025).
4. Public Input: The public may present community concerns to the board. Neighborhood board members may discuss, ask questions, and receive information on these matters under the limited notice exemption under HRS §92-81; however, no action may be taken on issues raised by the public (Agenda Guidance for Neighborhood Boards, CORR 2024-0718-01, p. 7)
5. Oral Testimony: Public testimony will be allowed on agenda items, with the Chair setting reasonable procedures (NP §2-14-118(c) and (d); HRS §92-3). Testimony is limited to 3 minutes (adopted August 24, 2022; Auth: NP §2-14-118(d)).
6. Written Testimony: Participants may submit written comments on agenda items. To submit testimony, visit https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/board-testimony (NP §2-14-118(b); HRS §92-3).
7. Board Packet: Written reports, presentations, flyers, handouts, and documents distributed to the Board are available on Google Drive (HRS §92-7.5).
8. Agenda Items and Voting: Under the Hawaii State Sunshine Law (HRS §92), matters not listed on the agenda cannot be voted on unless added during the meeting. The Board may add items if (1) the matter is not major, (2) it doesn’t affect many people, and (3) two-thirds of the full membership approves (HRS §92-7(d)). Items may also be added if an unanticipated event requires timely action for public health, welfare, or safety (HRS §92-8).
9. Board Boundaries: https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/boards-and-sub-district-boundary-descriptions

1. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Anthony Makana Paris (makana.paris@gmail.com)

2. ROLL CALL – Neighborhood Board Melissa Urubio (melissa.urubio@honolulu.gov)

3. REPORTS (Limited to 10 minutes each)
a. Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) on incidents/statistics/safety tips (HFDNHB@honolulu.gov)
b. Honolulu Police Department (HPD) on incidents/statistics/safety tips (https://www.honolulupd.org/contact-us)
c. Board of Water Supply (BWS) regarding incidents/statistics/projects/tips, Red Hill-related water concerns, and other water concerns – Nicole Rodwell (https://www.boardofwatersupply.com/contact)
d. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative on constituent concerns (including Makakilo Drive and other transportation updates), city projects, town halls (https://www8.honolulu.gov/mayor/townhall), and newsletter updates (https://www8.honolulu.gov/mayor/newsletter) – Deputy Director Deborah Zysman of the Office of Economic Revitalization (https://www8.honolulu.gov/mayor/contact-the-mayor)
HNL 311: Request a City service or report a City issue at HNL311.com or use the new HNL 311 mobile app
e. Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) regarding airports, harbors, highway incidents and statistics, traffic, and existing and planned projects related to District 34 (https://hidot.hawaii.gov/contact)
f. Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) regarding programming and planned projects related to District 34, and statewide efforts on cultural protection, investment in education, economic sustainability, health, quality health, annual event, sponsorship support, and advocacy and legislative efforts (info@oha.org)
g. O‘ahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) regarding OMPO Policy Board, Citizens’ Advisory Board, Technical Advisory Committee, OMPO events, and the status of Makakilo Drive completion on the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) – Board Delegate Frank Genadio (https://oahumpo.org) (genadiof001@hawaii.rr.com)

4. PRESENTATIONS (Limited to 45 minutes)
a. PIM Revision Application for Makaiwa Hills Landfill – Roger Babcock, Jr. Ph.D., Director and Josh Nagashima, Program Administrator, Department of Environmental Services (ENV) – ENV is developing a new landfill to replace the existing Waimānalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill (WGSL). The new landfill will accept MSW, C&D waste, and ash and residue byproducts. The WGSL must close no later than March 2, 2028, in accordance with the requirements its Special Use Permit (SUP) SP09-403, issued by the State of Hawai’i Land Use Commission. The disposal area for the proposed new municipal solid waste (MSW), ash, and construction and demolition (C&D) landfill boundary is anticipated to be approximately 150 acres. An estimated 350 additional acres may be required to accommodate other solid waste management infrastructure, such as weigh scales, a construction and demolition debris processing facility, leachate and landfill gas management facilities, refuse baseyard and maintenance facility, community recycling drop-off and reuse centers, staff offices and community education center, roadways, vegetated screening and development buffers, and a stormwater management system. The direct acquisition or condemnation of the Agricultural-zoned parcels needed for the development of the New O’ahu Landfill will begin in March 2026 and is expected to take up to three years to complete (assuming condemnation is the required approach). There are two TMK’s both owned by Makaiwa Hills LLC with assessed values: 92050030000 (576 ac, $18.2M), 920500010000 (1053 ac, $25.7M). The land acquisition budget is $55M in FY27-28. For questions, comments, or concerns: (josh.nagashima@honolulu.gov) (env@honolulu.gov) For the PIM Application: (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1D_MZvIyvgZsZuiXfz-ow9ID2gIYgoDaH/view?usp=drive_link)

5. PUBLIC INPUT (Limited to 3 minutes per member of the public in totality)
Elected officials and their community liaisons should raise their hand to be recognized during this agenda item.
Contact Information for District Elected Officials and their Community Liaisons to the Board:
a. Councilmember Andria Tupola (atupola@honolulu.gov)
b. U.S. Congressman Ed Case (https://case.house.gov/contact)
c. U.S. Congresswoman Jill Tokuda (https://tokuda.house.gov/contact)
d. Governor Josh Green (https://governor.hawaii.gov/contact-us) – HHFDC Housing Information Officer Gordon Pang (gordon.pang@hawaii.gov)
e. State Senator Mike Gabbard (District 21) (sengabbard@capitol.hawaii.gov) – Melanie June (m.june@capitol.hawaii.gov)
f. State Senator Samantha DeCorte (District 22) (sendecorte@capitol.hawaii.gov)
g. State Representative Diamond Garcia (District 42) (repgarcia@capitol.hawaii.gov)
h. State Representative Kanani Souza (District 43) (repsouza@capitol.hawaii.gov)
i. State Representative Darius Kila (District 44) (repkila@capitol.hawaii.gov)

6. BOARD BUSINESS
a. Approval of Meeting Minutes: Thursday, February 19, 2026 (Special Meeting); Wednesday, February 25, 2026; Wednesday, March 25, 2026
b. Resolution – Calling on the Mayor to Keep His Promise: No New Landfills in West Oʻahu
c. Resolution – Supporting the Installation of Secure Motorcycle, E-Bike, and Bicycle Shelters at Keoneʻae and Honouliuli Stations
f. Committee Reports:
• Transportation – Michael Ferreira
• Parks & Recreation – Mikiala Lidstone
• Environmental Justice – Dr. Kioni Dudley
• Beautification and Holiday – Carol England
• Community Outreach and Education – Sheila Medeiros

7. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
a. Next Scheduled Meeting: The next scheduled Neighborhood Board No. 34 meeting is May 27, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at Kapolei Hale – Conference Rooms A & B and online via Webex (https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/nb34). Sign up for meeting agendas/notices via email at https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/newsletter-subscription.
b. Meeting Recordings: Visit https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice to watch all Neighborhood Board meeting recordings. Neighborhood Board No. 34 meetings are televised on OLELO Channel 49 on the second Friday at 9:00 p.m. and the third Saturday at 12:00 p.m. (https://olelo.org/tv-schedule).
8. 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, HI 96817, by telephone on (808) 768-3710, fax (808) 768-3711, or emailing nco@honolulu.gov. Agenda, documents, minutes are also available online: https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards.

All written testimony must be received in the Neighborhood Commission Office 48 hours prior to the meeting. If within 48 hours of the meeting, written and/or oral testimony may be submitted directly to the Board at the meeting. If submitting written testimony, please note the Board and agenda item(s) your testimony concerns. Send to: Neighborhood Commission Office, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817, fax (808) 768-3711, email nbtestimony@honolulu.gov, or complete the form on https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/board-testimony.

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

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2026 at 7:00 P.M.
KAPOLEI HALE — CONFERENCE ROOM A & B — 1000 ULUʻŌHIʻA STREET, KAPOLEI, HI 96707
AND VIA WEBEX TELECONFERENCING

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

Reports & other meeting materials can be found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1GE3KMhGmxV2jxDLUnSvRUvThmykz8vGn

1. CALL TO ORDER — [0:00:07]: Chair Anthony Makana Paris called the Makakilo/Kapolei/Honokai Hale Neighborhood Board No. 34 meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Chair Anthony Makana Paris arrived later in the meeting. Quorum WAS established with 8 members present. Note: This 9-member Board requires 5 members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.

Members Present: Kioni Dudley, Carol England, Sheila Medeiros, Tiare Taala, Michael Ferreira, Amy Bosler and Anthony Makana Paris.

Members Absent: Mikiala Lidstone, Moon Kahele.

Guests: Firefirghter Sonia Duplassis (Honolulu Fire Department); Sergeant Fumi Moroka, Corporal Roland Pagan, (Honolulu Police Department); Deborah Zysman, Deputy Director, Office of Economic Revitalization (Mayor Rick Blangiardiʿs Office); Heather McMillen, Ph.D. (Urban & Community Forester, Mayorʿs Arborist Advisory Committee); Josh Nagashima and Dr. Roger Babcock (Department of Environmental Services); Mike Plowman (ʻEwa Neighborhood Board Military Affairs Chair); Katie Kaanapu (Kapolei Commons); Frank Genadio (OMPO Board Delegate); Melanie June (Senator Mike Gabbardʿs Office); Hunter Harris (Representative Diamond Garciaʿs Office); Kika Tepenny (Councilmember Andria Tupolaʿs Office); Representative David Alcos; Leslie Keating, Mike (Residents); Jeffrey Jones (Neighborhood Commission Office). There were 34 total participants. Name not included if not legible on sign-in sheet, not signed in and/or not participated in discussion.

2. ROLL CALL – [0:02:18]: Neighborhood Board Assistant Jeffrey Jones conducted a roll call to identify all Board Members present.

3. REPORTS – [0:03:26]

Honolulu Fire Department – [0:03:41]: Firefighter 3 Sonia Duplassis from the Makakilo Fire Station provided the following report:
• February 2026 Incident Statistics: 1 structure fire, 3 brush fires, 11 nuisance fires, 3 cooking fires, 27 activated alarms, 184 medical emergencies, 4 motor vehicle collisions, and 1 ocean rescue.
• Safety Tip – Smoke Alarms: Smoke alarms save lives and are an important part of the home fire escape plan. Properly installed and maintained smoke alarms give occupants early warning. Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on each level of the home. Test smoke alarms at least once a month and replace all smoke alarms that are at least 10 years old or stop responding when tested.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1masv2Xhh13mASAJuejiVAsSBwsBkMTQe/view?usp=drive_link

Honolulu Police Department – [0:05:18]: Sergeant Fumi Muraoka with the Honolulu Police Department, District 8, was joined online by Corporal Roland Pagan.
• February 2026 Crime Statistics: Motor vehicle thefts: 23 district-wide, 10 in Kapolei; Burglaries: 12 district-wide, 3 in Kapolei; Thefts: 103 district-wide, 47 in Kapolei; Motor vehicle break-ins: 27 district-wide, 9 in Kapolei; Total citations issued: 1,133; Total calls for service: 7,950 district-wide, 2,613 in Kapolei.
• Traffic Enforcement on Kalaeloa Boulevard: In response to a concern raised at the previous meeting, Sergeant Muraoka reported that 165 citations were issued in that area from the last board meeting through the current date, including speeding and other moving violations. HPD will continue traffic enforcement to ensure traffic awareness and public safety.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:06:55]
1. Traffic Violations in Campbell Industrial Area: Reis expressed concern that traffic violations in the Campbell Industrial area, near Costco gas station and Hawaii Hardware, have not improved. He described a near-accident that morning involving a driver who cut in front of him within 10 feet at over 50 mph and cited frequent illegal turns through red lights. Corporal Pagan acknowledged the concern, noting that officers do patrol the area but that drivers tend to obey traffic laws when they see an officer present and resume speeding once the officer leaves.

Board of Water Supply – [0:09:48]: The Board of Water Supply did not have a representative present this evening.

Mayor Rick Blangiardiʿs Representative – [0:10:08]: Deputy Director Deborah Zysman of the Office of Economic Revitalization appeared online via WebEx and provided the following report and follow-up responses to questions from the previous meeting:
• Town Hall Meetings: Mayor Blangiardiʿs 2026 town hall meetings will begin in April around the island, including several on the west side. The public is encouraged to attend. The town hall most relevant to this boardʿs area is April 16 at West Oahu – 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Multi-Purpose Ballroom C208 in the Campus Center Ballroom.
• HNL 311 System: The 311 system remains up and running. Residents are encouraged to use the HNL 311 app or website (HNL311.com) to report issues such as potholes and storm-related debris, with photos and location information, so city departments can begin repairs.
• Food Recycling Program: The cityʿs new food recycling program is launching on April 1, 2026. Information is available at honolulu.gov.
• Storm Recovery Update (Kona Low): The city is continuing extensive cleanup and recovery efforts island-wide in partnership with state and federal agencies. Recovery information is updated daily at honolulu.gov. Cleanup is currently focused on the North Shore where the most impact occurred, though communities island-wide are affected. Storm-related debris may be placed at the curb for regular collection if minimal; more extensive debris can be taken to city stations. H-Power is accepting commercial and municipal waste. Waiʿanae Gulch is also accepting residential construction debris such as dirt, concrete, and rocks. City parks are supporting storm recovery through food distribution and emergency shelters.
• Makakilo Bluffs Development: The Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) acknowledged receiving a grading permit application for the Makakilo Bluffs development. However, a grading permit application does not indicate forward movement of the project; construction plan review and approval is required before a grading permit can be issued, and that review has not yet begun. If information related to land use changes or public hearings becomes available, it will be shared with the board.
• Utility Box Beautification (Mural Program): In response to a question from Board Member Carol England from a prior meeting, the Mayorʿs Office on Culture in the Arts (MOCA) confirmed that community members can submit applications to initiate a mural painting process. Applications should be submitted to moca-info@honolulu.gov. Applicants must present their design concept to the Commission on Culture and the Arts for approval. The MOCA office number is (808) 768-6622. This applies to boxes along Makakilo Drive and the main highway. Deputy Director Zysman confirmed MOCA is the correct department for utility boxes on city property.
• Makakilo Drive Environmental Assessment: The 2009 Final Environmental Assessment for the Makakilo Drive extension is available online at the State of Hawaii Office of Planning website and was previously sent to board staff for inclusion in last monthʿs meeting minutes. An updated environmental assessment was not completed, and there are currently no plans or funding commitments to advance the Makakilo Drive extension beyond initial conceptual planning.
• Makakilo Drive Road Diet: DTS shared that the proposed road diet on Makakilo Drive, north of Palaheia Street, would convert the existing four-lane undivided roadway to a three-lane segment with two through lanes on both sides and a center two-way left-turn lane. This type of road diet has been used on other Oʻahu roadways with similar traffic volumes, including Noʻe Street in ʻIewa and a road in Kālihi, with minimal impacts on congestion. Other measures being considered along this section include raised crosswalks or speed tables, curb extensions, and median islands at marked crossings. Conceptual plans will be presented to the community once finalized.
• East and West Kapolei Rail Stations (Skyline): HART is responsible for the design and construction of the rail system, guideway, and stations, including core transit elements. Additional development at and around future stations – such as retail space, schools, and community facilities – falls outside HARTʿs scope and is typically led by city agencies and the state through transit-oriented development (TOD). Deputy Director Zysman encouraged early community conversations about visioning for the stations while in the pre-planning phase.
• Political Signs: DPP is responsible for sign regulations. Political signs are generally not regulated but are not permitted on city-owned properties or roadways. If signs are illegally posted on public property, residents should report them through HNL 311 with a photo and location; DPP will inspect and remove them. Signs posted on private property with permission are legal. If signs are posted on private property without permission, the property owner may remove them or call HPD if they feel unsafe. Corporal Pagan clarified that if a property owner needs assistance, HPD can make contact and have the sign removed.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:24:34]
1. Traffic Calming Timelines and Environmental Study for Makakilo Drive Extension: Medeiros asked for specific timelines on Makakilo Drive calming measures (including the ADA sidewalk) and sought clarification on whether the 2009 environmental study for the Makakilo Drive extension is still valid and what is needed to move the project forward. Deputy Director Zysman committed to seeking a timeline for both the calming measures and the ADA pedestrian access improvements, and to clarifying whether the 2009 environmental assessment is sufficient or needs to be updated for the project to advance.
2. Pickleball Decision Appeal: Medeiros asked where the community could go to appeal the cityʿs decision denying permanent pickleball striping on the tennis court at Makakilo Community Park. Zysman indicated the appeal process would likely go through the Parks and Recreation Department and committed to finding out how to submit a formal appeal.
3. Racetrack Area Conditions: Medeiros raised concerns about dump-like conditions at the racetrack area, citing reports of furniture, tires, and homeless individuals living in a hangar on city and county property. Corporal Pagan responded that the property recently came under the Department of Parks and Recreation. He has spoken with the DPR supervisor and is working to schedule a cleanup date in April. HPD and DPR have attempted to secure the area with barriers, but people continue to find ways in. Medeiros offered community volunteers to assist, and Pagan welcomed that support, stating that once a date is confirmed, the community is welcome to participate.
4. Utility Box Contact Confirmation: Board Member Carol England confirmed with Deputy Director Zysman that MOCA is the correct department for utility box beautification on Makakilo Drive, and that the MOCA director is Jennifer Santos.
5. Storm Cleanup – West Side and PA Street: Dr. Amy Bosler noted that community members have been volunteering in storm-affected areas but are not seeing city officials present in large numbers. She requested an update on PA Street, where families have reportedly been stranded since Thursday due to flooding. She also raised concerns about residents on the west side unable to pump water because it sits on military land. Zysman acknowledged the report and took note of PA Street specifically, committing to follow up on the issue.
6. Dying Trees on Makakilo Drive: Dr. Dudley followed up on his earlier request for the mayor to send someone to assess the dying trees on Makakilo Drive. He noted that despite a special presenter last month who promised to follow up, he has not heard back. Zysman committed to following up with the Division of Urban Forestry to inquire about the status of the tree assessment, noting that the cityʿs professional arborists are the appropriate party to assess the trees.
7. Mayor Town Hall Information: Frank Genadio noted that the mayorʿs town hall most relevant to this area is April 16 at West Oahu, from 6:30–8:30 p.m., in the Multi-Purpose Ballroom C208 at the campus center. He also followed up on the 2009 environmental assessment, suggesting that since the draft indicated no significant impact and Managing Director Formby stated a project cannot be placed on the TIP without an EA, the 2009 EA may be sufficient to put the Makakilo Drive completion back on the TIP. Chair Paris posed the clarifying question to Deputy Director Zysman: Is the 2009 environmental assessment sufficient to meet the criteria necessary to put the project back on the TIP?
8. Political Signs Comment: Community member Thad Spreg commented on the proliferation of campaign signs along Makakilo Drive, expressing that it was too early for candidates to post signs and jokingly promised to vote for whichever candidate removed their signs first.
9. Storm Acknowledgment and Lessons Learned: Community member Johnnie-Mae L. Perry thanked the mayor for responding to the North Shore early, and noted that while HFD, HPD, and EMT workers are available 24/7, departments such as DPR, DFD, and DFM are Monday–Friday workers. She acknowledged that communities acted appropriately by entering survival mode, and encouraged fire and HPD chiefs to establish earlier presence during future disasters.
10. Storm Debris on Farrington Highway: Community member Mike raised concerns about debris and falling leaves on Farrington Highway from the golf course to Walmart, noting that storm drains may become clogged and cause flooding. Zysman noted that crews were clearing drains in advance of the storm and encouraged residents to report problem areas through the HNL 311 app to alert sweeper crews.
11. Hurricane Preparedness: Dr. Dudley expressed deep concern about hurricane preparedness, noting that in the Atlantic, three out of five recent hurricanes were Category 5. He noted that ten related bills last year and three this year were all killed by the legislature. He asked Deputy Director Zysman to speak with the mayor about what the city can do to prepare. Chair Paris echoed these concerns, emphasizing that if two consecutive kona lows caused over a billion dollars in property damage, the community must start preparing for hurricanes. Zysman noted the cityʿs new Climate Resilience Fund and the state-level green fee program currently before the legislature as potential mechanisms for climate funding, and encouraged the community to keep the conversation going across legislative, council, and administrative channels.
12. Hurricane Preparedness – Military Leases: Dr. Dudley noted as a follow-up that military lease revenues, which the governor has discussed at approximately $10 billion, could be a significant funding source for hurricane preparedness, which he estimated would require approximately $4 billion.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs – [0:52:48]: No representative was present.

Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) – [0:52:52]: Board Delegate Frank Genadio provided the following report on the March meeting of OMPOʿs Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC):
• ORTP 2050 Update: The Policy Board received the Oʻahu Regional Transportation Plan (ORTP) for 2050. Dallas Ige of OMPO briefed on the final ORTP, which is updated every five years and is available on the OMPO website. There were 63 public and agency comments, including: the Hawaii Bicycle League requesting greater emphasis on cultural trails and historic rail corridors; busway improvements should follow Complete Streets principles; the Department of Planning and Permitting seeking stronger alignment with transit-oriented development; and the Hawaii Department of Transportation emphasizing coordination with HDOT on city projects adjacent to HDOT facilities.
• Makakilo Drive Second Access: In response to Genadioʿs earlier complaint about the removal of the Makakilo Drive project, Mr. Ige stated it has been restored as an illustrative project – listed but unfunded. The CAC voted 11–4–2 to approve the ORTP for forwarding to the Policy Board. Genadio confirmed that the project is listed as OC-31-02 – Makakilo Drive Second Access, with an estimated cost of $126 million+.
• Fort Barrette Road Widening: Genadio also noted that project OS-41-04, the state HDOT Fort Barrette Road widening to four lanes from Farrington Highway to the Barbers Point Gate (estimated $95 million+), is now on the “not recommended” list in the ORTP.
• Other Public Comments: CAC member John Rogers from Neighborhood Board 23 (Ewa) noted that Leeward bikeways are poorly maintained. Guest Laura Ruby stated that the bicycle-pedestrian bridge over the Ala Wai Canal is not needed, and that the community should be heard regarding the extension of Skyline to the University of Hawaii Mānoa campus.
• Maglev Technology: Genadio expressed the view that any extensions of Skyline past South Street or to the west should be developed with modern magnetic levitation (maglev) technology, which he believes would be operationally superior and more cost-effective than steel wheels on steel rails, saving local taxpayers billions in long-term operations and maintenance costs.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:56:30]
1. Makakilo Drive Extension – Environmental Study and TIP: Medeiros asked for clarification on what is needed to get the Makakilo Drive extension on the TIP. Genadio stated that the 2009 plan was drafted with community input and may be reconsidered given DTSʿs proposed road diet. He noted that the $126 million cost estimate cited by DTS Director Morton never accounts for the Federal Highway Administration potentially covering 80–100% of costs for congestion management and safety projects. He indicated he intends to raise this point at the mayorʿs town hall meeting.
2. Chairʿs Clarification: Chair Paris clarified the boardʿs longstanding position that the Makakilo Drive project should be referred to as a “completion” project, not an extension, since it was part of the original design – promised to connect back to H-1 on both ends.

Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation – [1:00:26]: No representative was present.

4. PRESENTATIONS – [1:00:36]

USTA Hawaii Pacific Campus – [1:00:44]: This presentation was rescheduled to the April 2026 meeting.

Evaluating the Impacts of the LNG Strategic Partnering Agreement: Environmental and Public Health Concerns for Central and West Oʻahu – [1:01:05]: Wayne Chung Tanaka, Executive Director of Sierra Club Hawaii, along with energy organizer Lauren Watanabe, presented on the proposed Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Strategic Partnering Agreement. The following topics were covered:
• Background/Vision: The proposal involves investing approximately $1.4 billion to bring a Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU) – a 300-meter tanker – to be moored approximately 3 miles off Campbell Industrial. LNG would be piped onshore through new pipelines to connect to existing oil-burning power plants scheduled for retrofitting. In October 2025, the governor signed a Strategic Partnering Agreement (SPA) with Jera, a Japanese LNG supplier, outlining a roadmap for rolling out the project. The agreement envisions Hawaii creating a coalition of stakeholders and developing a curriculum on energy for other Pacific nations, with Jera serving as the expert.
• Public Safety Concerns: LNG is extremely volatile and flammable. Unlike oil, gas explodes when ignited. Multiple large natural gas pipeline explosions have occurred on the continent in 2025 and 2024, and Jera itself has a troubled safety record, including a 2022 explosion at its Freeport facility costing nearly $1 billion in damages, as well as facility fires in Japan in 2022, 2023, and 2025.
• Public Health Concerns: LNG infrastructure continuously leaks methane, either intentionally vented or through leakage. Methane creates ground-level ozone (smog), causing respiratory issues. Other components of LNG, including benzene, ammonia, and toluene, can cause respiratory illness and organ damage. Heavy metal contamination such as lead has been documented near LNG facilities in other jurisdictions, posing serious developmental risks to children.
• Cost and Math Error: The Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) model used to promote the LNG proposal contained a major spreadsheet error: the $900 million cost of the LNG fuel itself was omitted. What appeared to be a $800 million benefit now looks like a $400 million loss. Both the Hawaii Natural Energy Institute and the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization have independently confirmed the error. The updated HSEO projection shows $1.4 billion in spending with approximately $150 million in projected benefits – not accounting for potential cost overruns, which have historically doubled or more on similar infrastructure projects.
• Reliability Concerns: LNG is promoted as providing “firm power,” but FSRUs are vulnerable to fire, earthquakes, tsunamis, and extreme weather events and can go offline for months to years. Greece and Italy have experienced such outages. China and Japan have rejected FSRUs as too expensive and unreliable. Puerto Rico, which relies on LNG, experienced grid instability visible nationally during the Super Bowl. If infrastructure is disrupted, Hawaii could be severely impacted.
• Environmental Concerns: LNG tankers discharging ballast water risk introducing invasive species. Chlorine discharges can harm marine ecosystems; Australia rejected a similar proposal for this reason. Whale strikes are statistically likely with increased LNG traffic. Physical infrastructure on ocean floors and reefs would cause direct habitat damage.
• Climate Concerns: Methane is 80 times more potent than CO₂ as a greenhouse gas and leaks throughout the entire LNG supply chain. Comparing LNG to Hawaiiʿs aging oil plants is a false comparison and does not account for what renewable buildout could achieve. The agreement envisions Hawaii serving as a gateway for LNG across the Pacific, which could lock multiple jurisdictions into fossil fuels for decades.
• Economic Dependency and No Exit: The premise that LNG will transition to green hydrogen by 2045 has already been abandoned; green hydrogen is not yet commercially viable. Without a viable exit strategy, Hawaii risks being locked into LNG – and a foreign fossil fuel corporation – indefinitely. Countries such as Germany that pivoted to LNG are now paying significantly higher costs due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Iran-related price increases. LNG prices are tied to oil prices, and nothing in the fossil fuel space is getting cheaper.
• Alternatives: Tanaka proposed reducing energy demand through passive cooling and technology, investing in battery storage technologies such as sodium-ion and iron-air batteries, pursuing distributed and decentralized energy (rooftop solar, parking lot solar, micro-grids), and building out renewable energy zones equitably. Lauren Watanabe noted Sierra Clubʿs involvement in an energy equity initiative and a HECO community working group focused on grid planning without LNG. She also referenced a University of Hawaii professorʿs February 2026 presentation to the Honolulu Climate Commission demonstrating pathways to meet energy demand using current solar and agrivoltaic technology.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:24:07]
1. Expressing Opposition: England read a prepared statement identifying three reasons for the board to oppose the LNG deal: (1) A major math error in the report that convinced the state – the contractor forgot to include the cost of the fuel, turning an alleged $1.2 billion savings into a $300–$400 million cost; (2) The January 2025 study was published and signed without any public meetings, community input, or outreach to Kapolei or Makakilo residents; and (3) No formal health impact study has been done for West Oʻahu families. She also noted that four previous governors reversed course on LNG, and that Hawaiian Electric already spent four years and millions of dollars on a previous LNG attempt that was canceled. She argued that building a massive gas facility takes 8–15 years and would jeopardize the 2045 renewable energy goal.
2. Environmental Impact Study and Reef Concerns: Bosler asked where the environmental impact study is for this proposal. Drawing on her experience as a former scuba instructor and participant in the Eyes of the Reef project, she noted significant coral bleaching and reef degradation she has personally witnessed in the past decade, including the loss of corals at Mākua Crater. She asked Tanaka to explain what arguments LNG proponents are making beyond the energy goal. Tanaka responded that the governorʿs primary framing is addressing infrastructure financing challenges facing HECO, combined with the vision of using the infrastructure later for green hydrogen, though that transition fuel vision is largely illusory.
3. Outreach and Petition: Taala asked whether Sierra Club has a public campaign underway and what the board can do to help. Tanaka invited board members and community members to connect with him individually or in groups. He shared a petition at bit.ly/nolng4hi, noting that Sierra Club will push out action alerts as needed. He stated Jera is currently in a socialization phase, meeting individually with potential supporters, and requested help reaching groups that may be concerned.
4. Solar on Farmland, Rooftop Solar, and Sierra Clubʿs Priorities: Dudley expressed 100% support for Sierra Clubʿs position but raised concern about solar farms covering agricultural land. He asked whether Sierra Club has worked to promote rooftop solar as an alternative. Tanaka confirmed Sierra Club advocates for distributed energy sources, and Lauren Watanabe described her involvement in a HECO community working group on five-year grid planning that emphasizes renewable energy zones and equitable siting. She also noted HECOʿs online portal for community input on rooftop solar siting.
5. Dying Trees and Hurricane Preparedness: Dudley asked whether Sierra Club is aware of the tree die-off problem in the district and whether the organization could do more to help advance hurricane preparedness legislation at the state level. Tanaka acknowledged the broad challenges facing Hawaii and offered to connect with Dudley offline.
6. Legislation to Track: Perry asked whether there are any relevant bills in the legislature to follow. Tanaka noted HB 1568 (a bill to ban LNG) was amended but missed its House hearing deadline, and SB 3326 (originally aimed at decoupling energy generation and distribution) was amended in the House to become a study bill on energy pathways.
7. Request for Pros and Energy Alternatives: Kahele asked for a balanced perspective, noting that he advocates for energy diversity and is not ready to rely solely on solar. Tanaka reviewed the state energy officeʿs stated pros for LNG: compact transport, grid reliability through firm power, replacement of aging oil plants, and the $340/year household savings claim (since debunked). He acknowledged that energy storage (battery technology) is the key challenge for renewable energy and highlighted sodium-ion and iron-air batteries as promising alternatives. Lauren Watanabe discussed the importance of decentralization, micro-grids (citing Molokaʻi), and community-driven grid planning as alternatives that would be impeded if LNG proceeds.
8. Explosion Location: England asked whether explosions from LNG occur at sea or at onshore facilities. Tanaka explained that most explosions shown in his presentation resulted from pipeline leaks, where gas hits a spark or flame source. Venting methane from LNG facilities can also create smog in surrounding areas. In low-wind conditions or leeward areas, methane and other LNG components would concentrate and cause health impacts.
9. Who Pays, Who Owns, Best Alternatives: Chair Paris asked who is paying for the infrastructure versus Jera, who owns and maintains it, and about startup costs. Tanaka explained that Jeraʿs $2 billion is essentially a loan that will be repaid through HECO ratepayersʿ bills, with recoupment taking years. He noted that Jeraʿs financing structure has not been publicly disclosed and that cost overruns are likely to be borne by the public. He also summarized the state energy officeʿs stated pros and compared LNG to better alternatives such as agrivoltaics, micro-grids, and distributed solar. Tanaka referenced a University of Hawaii professorʿs February 2026 Climate Commission presentation as a credible alternative plan and noted that HSEO staff reportedly said the governor instructed them to “make it work” with inflated demand projections.

Hearing no objections, Chair Paris took the agenda out of order to consider the resolution for the presentation,

Resolution – Opposition to Lng in Hawaiʻi and Infrastructure Development at Campbell Industrial Park: Advocating for Transparent and Reliable Energy Solutions – [2:05:43]: Chair Paris brought Resolution 2025-3E, a draft opposing LNG imports or infrastructure in Hawaii until an independent review and safeguards are completed, out of order for discussion and action. The chair noted the resolution does not permanently oppose LNG but calls for the proponents to fulfill specific conditions before the board would lend its support. The chair proposed amending the resolution to add provisions reflecting Members Boslerʿs and Englandʿs concerns regarding public health study verification and community engagement for affected neighborhoods, including this board, prior to any approval.

[2:06:51] England MOVED and Bosler SECONDED to adopt the resolution as amended. Following discussion, a voice vote was conducted and ADOPTED with a vote count of 7-0-1 (Aye: England, Bosler, Ferreira, Kahele, Taala, Dudley, Paris; Nay: None; Abstain: Medeiros) – [2:16:21]

5. PUBLIC INPUT – [2:17:25]

Board Boundary Resolution – [2:17:43]: Malia Agustin, representing the Nānākuli-Māʻili Neighborhood Board, introduced a resolution adopted by their board on March 17th requesting that the Neighborhood Board boundaries be amended to include Koʻolina within the Nānākuli-Māʻili Neighborhood Board district. She explained that Koʻolina is heavily impacted by developments in both the Koʻolina area and Waiʿanae Gulch, and that the request does not remove Koʻolina from the Kapolei board but seeks to allow both boards to share jurisdiction. The Neighborhood Commission Office is holding a meeting in April regarding board boundaries.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:22:20]
1. Board Jurisdiction: Taala asked whether other boards share jurisdiction over areas; the presenter confirmed some boards still have overlapping boundaries and that the NCO has been working to clarify board boundaries island-wide.
2. Potential for Joint Meetings: Dudley expressed concern about whether joint meetings would be required. The presenter clarified the resolution only specifies board boundaries and does not mandate joint meetings; meeting decisions remain with each chair.
3. Support for Resolution: Medeiros expressed support, noting that Waiʿanae Gulch is a major shared concern and that two boards sharing jurisdiction would strengthen their collective position.
4. Future Agenda Item: Chair Paris noted the board would support the action, with no opposition to joint custody of Koʻolina, and committed to putting a corresponding item on the April agenda.

Villages of Kapolei Concerns – [2:28:37]: Leticia Hernandez, a resident of Villages of Kapolei, raised three concerns: (1) Uncertainty about upcoming electronic voting in the VOCA homeownersʿ association and insufficient information from VOCA leadership; (2) The elimination of public comment periods at VOCA board of directors meetings; and (3) Seven months of unsuccessful attempts to obtain VOCAʿs financial statements.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:31:00]
1. Potential Board Action: Chair Paris responded by offering three potential board actions: drafting a resolution recommending best practices for homeowner associations within the boardʿs jurisdiction (including a homeowner forum); facilitating a public record of VOCA residentsʿ concerns through the neighborhood board; and assisting with requests for homeownersʿ association financials. He asked Hernandez to follow up offline to schedule these items for the April agenda.
2. Suggested Action for Resident: Perry suggested that Hernandez contact DCCA (Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs) at oah.dcca@hawaii.gov as a resource.

Representative Diamond Garcia – [2:34:16]: Representative Garcia provided the report and highlighted the following:
• Legislative Session Update: The session has passed the mid-session point; out of approximately 3,000 bills introduced, roughly 400–500 remain active. The public is encouraged to take Representative Garciaʿs mid-session survey via QR code on his newsletter or at www.repgarcia.com.
• Storm Damage Data Collection: A QR code on the newsletter links to a form for residents to report storm damage to inform state and city data collection efforts.
• Prince Kūhiō Parade: March 28th – community is encouraged to attend and show support.
• 2024 Tax Cut Repeal: Garcia expressed firm opposition to the governorʿs and legislative majorityʿs push to repeal 2024 tax cuts that were promised over 7 years. A QR code links to the floor debate recording. A Hawaii News Now interview recap is also available via QR code.
• House Resolution (HR) 69 – West Oʻahu Hawaiian Immersion Campus: This resolution calls on DOE to establish a working group to propose ideas for a West Oʻahu K–12 Hawaiian immersion campus. West Oʻahu, including Ewa and Kapolei, has the largest concentration of Hawaiians in the world; once Kapolei homesteads are fully built out, that distinction will fall within this district.
• HR 150 – Prince Kūhiō Portrait: This resolution urges any business operating on Hawaiian homelands (such as Hamakua Marketplace and others) to display a portrait of Prince Kūhiō in a prominent position.
• Missing Street Signs in VOKA/Malanai Aloa: Street signs that had been missing for years were recently addressed. However, the state initially ordered signs without the Hawaiian Okina and Kahakō diacritical marks, violating state law, and had to reorder them.
• VOKA Update: Over the past two months, high vegetation growth in VOKA was an issue. As of the meeting date, all VOCA areas under state jurisdiction have been trimmed.
• VOKA Town Hall – May 6: A town hall will be held on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, 5:30–7:30 p.m. at the VOKA Recreation Center, hosted by Representative Garcia, Senator Gabbard, and Council Member Tupola. Topics will include: (1) Senate Bill 662 – granting HPD and local law enforcement jurisdiction to enforce the traffic code on VOKA roads; (2) City MOU transferring road jurisdiction from the state to the city and county after 30 years; and (3) The future of VOKA, including sidewalk and tree maintenance plans.
• HR 149 – Makakilo Drive Extension: This resolution urges the city and county of Honolulu to take necessary steps to finalize, prioritize, and advance the Makakilo Drive extension project. Garcia introduced the House companion; Senator Gabbard introduced the Senate version. Medeiros praised Garcia for doing “legislation right” by working with a Senate counterpart to advance a bipartisan bill through both chambers and informing the neighborhood board to mobilize constituent support.
• HR 67 – Domestic Violence Resources: This resolution urges the courts and judiciary to link with nonprofits and organizations to assist domestic violence victims with adequate resources throughout the legal process, based on a constituent’s experience from this district.
• HR 68 – Education Freedom Tax Credits: This resolution urges Governor Green to opt Hawaii into the federal Education Freedom Tax Credit program established by Congress. The program gives federal tax credits to donors to scholarship programs for private education at no fiscal cost to the state. Hawaii has not opted in, meaning residents would lose access to federal dollars going to other states. Garcia introduced the House companion; Senator Brenton Awa introduced the Senate version.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:38:46]
1. Clarifying HR 149: Medeiros asked for clarification regarding HR 149. Representative Garcia clarified the resolution verbiage and the intentions towards the City and County of Honolulu.
2. Clarifying VOKA Townhall: Dudley wanted to clarify if the townhall was tailored strictly to VOKA or if other issues would be discussed. Representative Garcia confirmed it would be centered around VOKA and legislation that will positively impact the VOKA community.
3. Appreciation for Update: Hernandez thanked Garcia for the VOCA street sign update and confirmed that HHFDC has agreed to monthly grass cutting. She also asked whether the May 6 town hall would address the five-year strategic plan and the Kapolei Middle School potable water issue. Garcia confirmed all VOCA-related topics are welcome and committed to following up with the DOE regarding the school, noting his office was not officially invited to any related meeting.

Senator Mike Gabbardʿs Office – [2:51:57]: Melanie June, Senator Gabbardʿs community liaison, provided the following:
• March Newsletter: https://conta.cc/4sGOIBH
• Next “Listen Story” community meeting: Saturday, May 16, 2026, 9:00–10:00 a.m., Kapolei High School Teachers Lounge. This special meeting will provide a full legislative session wrap-up after the session concludes on May 8. Zoom option available; email the office to RSVP.

6. BOARD BUSINESS – [2:53:20]: Chair Paris announced that all Board Business items (including approval of February meeting minutes, committee reports, and resolutions) are deferred to the April meeting, with the exception of the LNG resolution addressed under presentations. Public testimony on board business items was opened; no members of the public came forward.

7. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:54:05]

Committee Reports – [2:54:07]:
• Transportation – Michael Ferreira: Ferreira reported that since the Kalahi Transit Center opened and the rail now runs all the way there, he commutes to the Capitol daily: express bus from Makakilo Heights to the rail station, train to downtown, then a one-block walk to his office – total commute approximately one hour. Return trip is one hour and five minutes. He noted a spectacular increase in ridership and stated people can be confident that public transit to downtown is now viable.
• Beautification and Holiday – Carol England: England reported that with contact information now received from the mayorʿs office (MOCA), the committee has begun sketching concepts for the ten utility boxes along Kapoleiʿs main highway, ending at Costco. The vision is to tell the story of Kapolei across each of the ten boxes.
• Community Outreach and Education – Sheila Medeiros: The board is participating in the Prince Kūhiō Parade. Community members are invited to walk with the board. Participants must arrive at the Kapolei State Office Building parking lot no later than 3:00 p.m. The board will have a banner and will include bubbles again this year. A trolley is available for those unable to walk; contact Medeiros to arrange.

Next Scheduled Meeting: The next meeting for Makakilo/Kapolei/Honokai Hale Neighborhood Board No. 34 is scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at Kapolei Hale – Conference Rooms A & B and online via WebEx (https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/nb34/).

Meeting Recordings: Visit https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice to watch all Neighborhood Board meeting recordings. Neighborhood Board No. 34 meetings are televised on OLELO Channel 49 on the second Friday at 9:00 p.m. and the third Saturday at 12:00 p.m.

8. ADJOURNMENT – [2:57:56]: Chair Paris adjourned the meeting at 10:01 p.m.

Submitted by: Jeffrey Jones, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck. Community Relations Specialist, NCO
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.