MAKAKILO – KAPOLEI – HONOKAI HALE NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 34

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 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=m88121d4a49b24530cb2f6836f63653b8
Meeting Number / Access Code: 2495 342 6108
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 Assistant Jeffrey Jones (jeffrey.jones@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, and sponsorship support (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); Special report on the Oahu Regional Transportation Plan 2050, including projects that are recommended, not recommended, and illustrative, impacting District 34 – Board Delegate Frank Genadio (https://oahumpo.org) (genadiof001@hawaii.rr.com)

4. PRESENTATIONS
a. USTA Hawaii Pacific Campus – Ron Romano, Executive Director. For questions, comments, or concerns: (romano@hawaii.usta.com) (Sunny Rosaio, Manager of Governmental Affairs & Community Relations, Gentry Homes, LTD.; sunnyr@gentryhawaii.com) (Limited to 10 minutes)
b. Evaluating the Impacts of the LNG Strategic Partnering Agreement: Environmental and Public Health Concerns for Central and West Oʻahu – Wayne Chung Tanaka, Executive Director of Sierra Club Hawaii. For questions, comments, or concerns: (wayne.tanaka@sierraclub.org) [Resources: Hawaii State Energy Office Leases Alternative Fuels, Repowering and Energy Transition Study, January 2025; House Committee on Energy & Environmental Protection Informational Briefing on HSEO Report on LNG Support and Expert Assessments, March 12, 2026] ) (Limited to 25 minutes)

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: Wednesday, February 25, 2026
b. Committee Reports:
• Transportation – Michael Ferreira
• Speed Calming and Safety Measures – Speed Alert Radar Message Signs
• Parks & Recreation – Mikiala Lidstone
• Environmental Justice – Dr. Kioni Dudley
• Beautification and Holiday – Carol England
• Community Outreach and Education – Sheila Medeiros
c. Request from Council Chair Tommy Waters
• SB2423 – Prohibits the counties from imposing certain lot requirements on lots zoned for housing on parcels of land located within the urban district for purposes of subdivision, development, or the issuance of a building permit, with certain exemptions. Allows the counties to establish a petition process for neighborhoods, subdivisions, or other geographically contiguous areas to establish or retain certain requirements or specifications.
• HB1734 – Prohibits the counties from imposing certain lot requirements and dwelling specifications for parcels of land zoned for residential uses located within the urban district for purposes of subdivision, development, or the issuance of a building permit, with certain exemptions. Allows the counties to establish a petition process for neighborhoods, subdivisions, or other geographically contiguous areas to establish or retain certain requirements or specifications
d. Resolution – ADVOCATING FOR PEACE IN IRAN AND ITS NEIGHBORING REGION THROUGH DIPLOMATIC SOLUTIONS INSTEAD OF MILITARY FORCE
e. Resolution – DENOUNCING PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP’S UNILATERAL MILITARY ACTION IN IRAN WITHOUT CONGRESSIONAL APPROVAL
f. Resolution – REJECTING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF HAWAI’I AS A HUB FOR MILITARY WEAPONS MANUFACTURING
g. Resolution – SUPPORTING MILITARY READINESS WITHOUT EXPANDING PERSONNEL IN HAWAI’I
h. Resolution – OPPOSITION TO LNG IN HAWAIʻI AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AT CAMPBELL INDUSTRIAL PARK: ADVOCATING FOR TRANSPARENT AND RELIABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS

7. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
a. Next Scheduled Meeting: The next scheduled Neighborhood Board No. 34 meeting is 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). 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, FEBRUARY 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]: 7:00 p.m.
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, Moon Kahele, Mikiala Lidstone (Arrived 7:38 p.m.), Sheila Medeiros, Tiare Taala, Michael Ferreira, Amy Bosler and Anthony Makana Paris.
Members Absent: Carol England.
Guests: Captain Sean Yoshimura (Honolulu Fire Department); Sergeant Fumi Moroka, Corporal Roland Pagan, Lieutenant David Caralia, Captain Carrera, Lieutenant Tamara Torres, Traffic Major Beria, Assistant Chief Brandon Nakasato (Honolulu Police Department); Nicole Rodwell (Board of Water Supply); 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 67 total participants. Name not included if not legible on sign-in sheet, not signed in and/or not participated in discussion.
2. ROLL CALL – [0:02:12]: Neighborhood Board Assistant Jeffrey Jones conducted a roll call to identify all Board Members present.

3. REPORTS – [0:03:04]

Honolulu Fire Department – [0:03:06]: Captain Sean Yoshimura from Tower 40, representing Stations 43, 35, and 40 (Kapolei High East and West, and Makakilo), provided the following reports:
• Follow-Up from Previous Meeting: Captain Yoshimura addressed the question posed last month regarding fire-related incidents on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. According to HFD statistics, there were no fire-related incidents in Neighborhood Board No. 34 on December 31, 2025 or January 1, 2026; Addressed HFD’s plan to keep Makakilo residents safe from fire emergencies; Addressed of there is enough water to stop a wildfire from spreading.
• January 2026 Incident Statistics: 2 structure fires, 8 nuisance fires (rubbish fires outside a structure/vehicle), 18 activated alarms, 205 medical emergencies, 6 motor vehicle crash/collisions.
• Reporting System Change: Beginning January 1, 2026, HFD is transitioning from the legacy National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) to the modern National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS). The two systems are coded and classified differently, so fluctuations in certain incident categories may occur. One category currently unavailable due to coding changes is motor vehicle collision with a pedestrian; HFD is working to resolve this.
• Safety Tip – Calling 911: Honolulu Fire Department reminds the public to call 911 first in any emergency. Do not drive to the nearest fire station, as a fire company may not be at the station. When calling 911, give the operator your initial need (police, fire, or EMS). HFD can also field 911 text messages for those without good voice reception.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/142ktYMT01lsbY_C_aWUCy-dxZqUyqW9v/view?usp=drive_link

Lidstone joined the meeting at 7:38 p.m.; 8 members present.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:06:55]
1. Concrete Houses and Senate Bill 2884: Dudley commented that the board has strongly supported Senate Bill 2884, which gives builders of concrete houses (far more fire-resistant) a 50% tax break on the money they bring in when selling the house.

Lidstone joined the meeting at 7:38 p.m.; 8 members present.

2. Firewise USA Program: Medeiros commented that she had never heard of the Firewise USA program before and asked how long it had been in effect. Captain Logan Tomotio, representative of the Wildland Urban Interface Group, responded that the program began around 1995. The board expressed interest in exploring implementation in the community.

Honolulu Police Department – [0:10:51]: Sergeant Fumi Moroka with HPD Community Policing Team, District 8, was joined by Corporal Roland Pagan, Lieutenant David Caralia, Captain Carrera, Lieutenant Tamara Torres (Traffic), Traffic Major Beria, and Assistant Chief Brandon Nakasato.
• January 2026 Crime Statistics: 27 motor vehicle thefts district-wide (5 in Kapolei area); 12 burglaries district-wide (3 in Kapolei area); 113 thefts district-wide (42 in Kapolei area); 24 car break-ins district-wide (8 in Kapolei area); 70 speeding citations issued; 655 moving violations; 102 parking violations; total citations 1,231; total calls for service 8,450 district-wide (2,732 in Kapolei area).
• Follow-Ups from Previous Meeting: HPD noted they were asked to track citations by specific location but do not track them that way – citations are tracked by date, violation type, and beat. HPD confirmed the speed trailer is back in service and will be rotated to Makakilo Drive as previously requested.
• Assistant Chief Brandon Nakasato Presentation – 2025 Traffic Fatality Analysis: Due to the high number of traffic fatalities in 2025, HPD’s analyst unit broke down the data by area, contributing factors, and age groups. Key findings: most incidents involved motorcycles/mopeds and pedestrians; the trend peaked during evening hours from 5:00–11:00 p.m.; the leading contributing factors were speed, no helmet, not using a crosswalk (pedestrians), and no seatbelt; the highest frequency age group was 19–25. HPD is requesting a grassroots community effort to spread safety messages: buckle up, leave earlier, motorcyclists don’t split lanes, wear helmets. HPD is open to community suggestions to reduce fatalities.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:18:00]
1. Speed Limit Reduction and Public Awareness: Kahele acknowledged HPD’s difficult work and suggested reducing the speed limit along the corridor between Target and Fort Shafter (near Kamehameha Schools) from 60 mph to 55 mph as a deterrent. He also suggested using local radio stations and social media (including Skyline) to regularly remind residents to buckle up, noting that safety education starts at home.
2. Crosswalk Statistics and Jaywalking Clarification: Bosler referenced HPD’s statistics showing 17% of fatalities on the island involve lack of crosswalks – a major issue on Makakilo Drive. She also asked HPD to confirm whether pedestrians can legally cross Makakilo Drive in unmarked areas, as a representative at the previous meeting suggested this was permitted. Captain Torres clarified that pedestrians are permitted to cross from corner to corner at intersections even without marked crosswalks, but must be aware that vehicles may not see them, especially at night. HPD and community members are encouraged to reach out to DTS to request crosswalk installations.
3. Transportation Committee – Speed Radar Trailers and Crosswalks: Ferreira noted he used to work with speed radar trailers and Volunteer Police Services in the Bay Area. He stated DTS previously removed crosswalks from Makakilo Drive after off-hours surveys showed insufficient use. He advocated for obtaining 4–5 new radar trailers that broadcast traffic data to the cloud, which could help HPD allocate enforcement resources. He is working on pricing and seeking funding through fraternal organizations and other sources.
4. Community Outreach Support: Medeiros thanked HPD for their work and offered to help spread their safety messaging through the Neighborhood Board’s Facebook page and social media. She suggested HPD reach out to subdivisions and Villages of Kapolei to spread the safety message at the grassroots level.
5. HPD Staffing and Recruitment: Kahele noted that last Fall HPD had a graduating class and a recruit class graduated this spring, with staffing numbers slowly improving. The board thanked HPD for going the extra mile to cover short-staffed districts.
6. Helmet Law and School Safety: Keating expressed support for a stronger helmet law, noting California’s effective law. She suggested school resource officers distribute reminder cards to students not wearing helmets. She also raised concerns about toddlers unsecured in vehicles at school drop-off lines. Additionally, she raised concern about pepper spray being deployed at Kapolei Middle School the previous day during a fight where one girl was attacked by a group. Corporal Pagan explained that pepper spray is the lowest level of force and was used because the officer was outnumbered. He noted there are no known long-term effects from pepper spray.
7. Campbell Industrial Area Traffic: Reis raised concern about dangerous speeding on the freeway near Campbell Industrial during early morning rush hour (4:30–5:00 a.m.) and asked HPD to station officers in blind spots and use speed guns to catch speeders.

Board of Water Supply – [0:36:43]: Nicole Rodwell with the Board of Water Supply provided the following report:
• Announcements: No water main breaks in the Makakilo/Kapolei/Honokai Hale area in January 2026.
• 2026 Poster and Poetry Contests: Theme is “Everyday Conservation.” Open to K–6 (posters) and grades 7–12 (poetry), including homeschool students. Deadline is in a few days. Visit boardofwatersupply.com/wcw-contests for more information.
• World Water Day – March 22, 2026: Annual UN observance to raise awareness about the 2+ billion people without access to safe water. More information available on BWS website and the United Nations website.
• Follow-Up on Wildfire/Water Question: BWS clarified that no city has a fire hydrant system designed to fight large wildfires – it is not feasible to design a system that could fight a wildfire of the scale seen in Lahaina or LA and still be affordable and practical for everyday use. BWS regularly maintains and tests the fire hydrant system. Residents are encouraged to call 911 (non-emergency) or use the HNL 311 app to report concerns about fire hydrants or vehicles parked in front of hydrants.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:41:05]
1. Poster Contest Notice: Bosler requested more advance notice for the poster and poetry contest to allow the active homeschool community on Oahu to participate. Rodwell acknowledged the concern and committed to working with the communications team to do a stronger advertising push.
2. Water Infrastructure and Growth: Medeiros asked how BWS tracks water capacity to ensure it can sustain all the new development coming to Kapolei, including Kalaeloa, given that residents are already receiving notices to limit water use. She asked about desalination options. Rodwell confirmed BWS is working on a Kalaeloa desalination facility but hitting some red tape, and committed to providing a more detailed answer.
3. Opposition to Desalination: Dudley stated that he strongly objects to desalination because it removes a natural limit on development. He argued that natural water availability is a necessary constraint on the number of homes that can be built, and that desalination would eliminate that safeguard.

Mayor Rick Blangiardiʿs Representative – [0:45:16]: Deputy Director Deborah Zysman of the Office of Economic Revitalization appeared online and provided follow-up responses to questions from the January meeting:
• HNL 311 System: Reiterated the launch of the new Honolulu 311 system (app for Apple/Android and HNL311.com) allowing residents to report issues with photos directly to the appropriate city department.
• Pickleball Striping at Makakilo Community Park: The Department of Parks and Recreation confirmed that permanent dual striping will not be permitted on the tennis court at Makakilo Community Park due to safety, equity, and conflict concerns (incidents requiring HPD intervention, permit disputes, player exclusion). Residents will not be allowed to paint permanent lines themselves. Temporary tape markings remain permitted. BWS noted Makakilo Community Park has two lined courts on the volleyball courts available for pickleball, and approximately 15 other parks in the Leeward Oahu district offer pickleball.
• Makakilo Drive – Sidewalk and ADA Compliance: DDC (Dept. of Design and Construction) investigated the sidewalk and light poles. Plans are being developed to widen the sidewalk at the identified locations. They are consulting with the State Dept. of Health Disability and Communication Access Board on ADA compliance. Full ADA compliance is not feasible due to the steep grade of Makakilo Drive; however, DDC will coordinate with DFM (Dept. of Facilities Management) to construct the widening upon plan completion and access board approval.\
• Makakilo Drive – Traffic Calming: Speed humps are not appropriate due to the vertical grade. DTS implemented lane narrowing between Alalai and Alahoi Streets with a shoulder parking lane and new raised pavement markers. DTS has a project in design phase for a “road diet” (reducing the number of lanes), which will be shared with the community for input once conceptual plans are finalized.
• Makakilo Drive – Speed Trailer: The speed trailer has been repaired and will be rotated to different locations including Makakilo Drive. Community input on specific placement locations is welcome.
• Makakilo Drive Extension: No federal, state, or city funding has been identified. The city is monitoring future federal funding opportunities but has no current plans or funding commitments beyond existing conceptual planning.
• Emergency Access Road: The Department of Emergency Management is working with Grace Pacific and other landowners to explore development of an emergency access road available during emergency situations, independent of the Makakilo Drive extension.
• Skyline Stations and Park & Ride: DTS confirmed the park and ride system will continue expanding during Segment 3. The Musubi lot near Kapolei Parkway is slated for future permanent Kapolei Transit Center development and is not planned as an interim park and ride. DTS has no current plans to install live cameras for viewing lot availability but is launching parking utilization studies. Park and ride use is limited to 24 hours; HPD will assist with abandoned vehicle removal. Solar canopies are being explored for city-owned park and ride lots.
• Traffic Congestion at Kapolei/Kalaeloa: DTS observed significant traffic increases during December/January holiday season in the Kapolei Parkway/Kalaeloa Boulevard area. Signal timing was adjusted to keep traffic flowing and will continue to be monitored.
• Driver’s Licenses/Temporary ID Cards: State law requires surrender of all valid licenses upon renewal and only one license may be held at a time. Federal law also prohibits holding more than one real ID. Real ID security features make on-the-spot issuance impractical; DSD expects to have tracking and expedited delivery in the future.
• Pending Follow-Ups: Status of Makakilo Bluffs (awaiting response from DPP); utility box painting and beautification (awaiting response from responsible department).

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:02:00]
1. Road Diet Concerns: Bosler expressed strong concern about reducing the number of lanes on Makakilo Drive, noting that the extension is not funded, that there is already significant traffic congestion, and that there are no emergency egress routes. Reducing lanes in an area with no alternative exits could be dangerous in an emergency.
2. Road Diet – Community-Led Speed Reduction: Dudley agreed 100% with concerns about the road diet and cited the community’s successful informal effort to get roughly one-third of cars traveling at 28 mph across the top of Makakilo. He asked whether the exceptional tree presentation was connected to concerns about dying trees.
3. Makakilo Drive Extension – Environmental Assessment Release: Ferreira stated that the community had met with the mayor, DTS, and Mike Formby and were promised the environmental assessment would be released to pursue local and state funding (since it cannot be released for federal funding unless the project is on the TIP). That commitment was made over a year ago by Roger Morton and his environmental person, and the EA has still not been released. He requested Zysman ask the mayor to direct DTS to release the EA.
4. Pickleball and ADA Timeline: Medeiros challenged the city’s position that adding a line to a tennis court would exacerbate conflict, asking if there is a police report documenting such conflicts. She also demanded a specific timeline for the ADA sidewalk improvements, noting the community deserves accountability and not just assurances that work is “in process.” She asked about HB 1908 and HB 1910 (Makakilo Drive extension bills) and asked Rep. Souza’s office what mobilization was done, as only 11 testimonies were submitted for HB 1908 and 5 total for HB 1910.
5. Skyline Usage: Board member Ferreira noted the Skyline light rail is being used extensively by community members to ride to the airport and expressed appreciation for the Skyline staff and crew.
6. Kapolei Regional Park Intersection/Lighting: Reis raised two concerns: (1) the shut intersection near Haley Gas Station across from Kapolei Regional Park, which has become a site for homeless activity and creates unnecessary traffic congestion near the 7-Eleven and old Consolidated Theater; and (2) overgrown trees along the Kapolei highway between the golf course and Walmart that are blocking street lights and making the bike lane unsafe at night.
7. Makakilo Drive Extension Environmental Assessment Validity: Medeiros asked whether the 2009 environmental assessment for the Makakilo Drive extension is still valid given the drastic change in population composition over 17 years. Zysman confirmed the EA was completed in February 2009 and committed to following up on whether a newer one exists.
8. Road Diet Alternatives and Public-Private Partnership: Chair Paris suggested the city consider the cost of restriping sidewalks and reinstalling the speed radar as alternatives or complements to the road diet, noting that visible crosswalks and speed infrastructure have psychological traffic-calming effects. He also asked Zysman to inquire whether the city could enter a public-private or public-public partnership (e.g., with DOE for a vertical school) at the East Kapolei Station or proposed West Kapolei Station.

Hawaii Department of Transportation – [1:21:40]: No representative present.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs – [1:21:42]: No representative present.

Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) – [1:21:51]: Board Delegate Frank Genadio provided the following report on the February meeting of OMPOʿs Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC):
• CAC Report: OMPO Executive Director Mark Garretti reported 150 attendees at the transportation forum, which will support future planning and legislative action. The Policy Board elected City Council Member Val Okamoto as its new chair and Representative Darius Keila as vice chair (they swapped jobs). Dallas Egay of OMPO again briefed on the Oʻahu Regional Transportation Plan (ORTP) for 2050, which will guide projects included in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). OMPO is working on the final ORTP and has published public comments on the website.
• Makakilo Drive Completion – DTS Response: In response to Genadio’s complaint about the removal of the Makakilo Drive completion project, OMPOʿs Egay implied the project will be back. The DTS Director’s comment on the site stated: “DTS is currently procuring consultant services to complete a Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) report for the project. The PEL process will allow us to assess the current environmental and community impacts of any proposed action and determine the feasibility of the project. If the project is deemed feasible, including from a cost-benefit perspective, DTS will request the project be added to the TIP and the PEL report will assist in updating the project’s environmental assessment.”

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:25:09]
1. EA Validity and Funding: Medeiros asked whether the 2009 environmental assessment is still valid given 17 years of population change. Genadio responded that nothing has changed on the 4,000 linear feet area itself, so he considers the report still valid. He noted that the mayor and his director Mike Formsby committed that city money would be available for the EA. He stated the project has essentially no negative impact and that it is simply a matter of political will and funding priorities.
2. Timeline for PEL Assessment: Bosler asked if a timeline was given for the latest Makakilo Drive PEL assessment. Genadio confirmed no timeline was provided.

4. PRESENTATIONS – [1:28:05]

Exceptional Tree Program – [1:28:11]: Dr. Heather McMillen, State Urban and Community Forester (DLNR) and member of the Mayorʿs Arborist Advisory Committee, presented on the Exceptional Tree Program and related resources:
• State Urban and Community Forestry Program (Kaulunani): DLNR administers a small grant program to help communities plant and maintain trees, supports the Arbor Day Foundation Tree City program, operates the Community Coconut Program (revitalizing coconut culture), and the Shade Trees for Schools program. Grants close March 1, 2026 (current cycle).
• Exceptional Tree Program: Run by the City and County of Honolulu through the Division of Urban Forestry and administered by the Mayorʿs Arborist Advisory Committee. Established in 1975 to protect trees from improper pruning and removal. Property owners with exceptional trees are eligible for a $3,000 tax deduction (committee is advocating for this to be updated from the 1975 amount). Over 1,400 exceptional trees and groves are currently designated. Trees can be nominated based on historic or cultural value, rarity, age, size, or location. Once nominated, trees are protected regardless of change in property ownership.
• Tree Canopy Data: The neighborhood boardʿs meeting location has approximately 7% tree canopy coverage; other areas in the district are at 23% or under. Research shows 30% tree canopy is the minimum needed to realize the full benefits of tree coverage. Urban areas with less canopy are hotter, ranking high on the Urban Heat Severity Index. Extreme heat is the deadliest climate risk, claiming more lives annually than floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, and wildfires combined. There are currently no exceptional trees designated in Neighborhood Board 34ʿs district; Dr. McMillen encouraged nominations.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:39:57]
1. Grant Program for Crown Flower/Butterfly Garden: Ferreira asked if the grant program could support planting white crown flower trees, which are food sources for butterfly caterpillars. McMillen confirmed crown flower is considered a tree and expressed interest in discussing this, inviting Ferreira to email her.
2. Dying Trees on West Side and Exceptional Tree Nominations: Lidstone noted that the likely reason there are no exceptional trees on the map in the district is because they have all died – including historic coconut trees lost to Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB). She suggested the more pressing need for this community is resources on maintaining existing trees, not necessarily nominating new exceptional trees. McMillen acknowledged the struggle with drought and invasive species and noted a bill in the legislature proposes expanding the exceptional tree program with more DLNR support and recognition for “up and coming” exceptional trees.
3. Advising Developers on Tree Planting: Taala asked whether McMillen’s advisory committee advises developers on meaningful tree planting. McMillen explained the committee’s purview is narrowly defined to the exceptional tree program, but noted that development requirements do mandate trees in plans. However, developers sometimes remove planned trees once utilities are installed, and pay fines instead. She emphasized that trees are critical infrastructure, not optional beautification, and should be treated as such at the policy level.
4. Community Event Request: Bossler asked whether McMillen’s program could bring a community event to the west side (similar to the Board of Water Supply’s “Day Without Water” event) to educate residents about the 7% canopy coverage and the 30% goal. McMillen noted Malama Learning Center is an active community partner on the west side and encouraged the board to reach out. She also offered to speak at events.
5. Dying Trees on Makakilo – Urgent Concern: Dudley showed photographs of dying trees on Makakilo Drive, expressing deep frustration that the board has been raising this for six months with no answers. He described seeing entire valleys where every single tree is dead, representing potentially millions or billions of dollars in tree loss. He challenged McMillen to explain what is happening. McMillen said based on the photos she could not diagnose the issue remotely, but noted the principles of “right tree, right place, right care” – species selection, adequate soil volume, and proper care. She noted hot dry seasons are a contributing factor and directed specific street tree concerns to the City and Countyʿs Division of Urban Forestry.
6. Getting More Trees Through Donations/Grants: Medeiros asked how the community can get more trees planted in the Kapolei flats through donations or grants. McMillen explained that once roads are turned over to the county, residents can request the Division of Urban Forestry plant a tree in the right-of-way in front of their home at no charge (with watering responsibility). She also encouraged communities to apply for DLNRʿs grant program (next cycle) for parks, schools, and community spaces.
7. Coordination with Parks for Tree Grants: Bosler asked whether tree grant applications require coordination with Parks & Recreation for public parks. McMillen confirmed that city/county parks require coordination with Parks & Rec, but community spaces outside municipal management can potentially qualify directly for the DLNR grant program.

2024/PIM-2 Modification – ʻEwa Public Infrastructure Map (PIM) – Solid Waste Management Campus Update – [2:01:21]: Josh Nagashima, Chief of the Refuse Division, Department of Environmental Services (ENV), City and County of Honolulu, presented on behalf of Ahmad Sadri. ENV Director Dr. Roger Babcock was also present.
• PIM Modification Overview: ENV seeks to expand the solid waste tag on the Public Infrastructure Map to the neighboring property (formerly occupied by the AES coal-burning facility) adjacent to the H-Power facility in Campbell Industrial, using city funds to build an ENV Solid Waste Management Campus.
• Previous Outreach and Conditional Support: ENV prepared a PIM modification report in November 2024 and received a letter of conditional support from this neighborhood board. Conditions included: collaborating with Aloha Carbon (confirmed partnership since January 2021); engaging the neighborhood board (accomplished through this presentation); and implementing a host compensation package (ENV is considering this).
• Waste Stream Overview: ENVʿs waste management hierarchy includes reduce, reuse, source separation, materials recovery (recyclables), waste-to-energy (H-Power, generating ~10% of the islandʿs electricity), and landfill for inerts. H-Power receives ~2,000 tons of waste per day. PVT Landfill processes ~563 tons/day of construction and demolition (C&D) debris and will close within ~5 years. About 400 tons/day of ash from H-Power must go to landfill.
• Proposed Campus Goals: Reduce waste to landfill; improve traffic flow; implement advanced Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) for C&D materials; explore new technologies (pyrolysis, gasification, plasma arc); recover metals from ash; build an education center. Aloha Carbon uses advanced technology to convert C&D debris to fuel, and ENV is exploring this and other advanced technologies.
• Food Waste Program: ENV is conducting a pilot test for food waste collection in the green cart starting in April 2026, expected to expand island-wide in October 2026.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1js1VPY4l326Q2uOeVtjmXnX15QnvHYkW/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:18:49]
1. Circular Economy and Policy Alignment: Taala asked what policies are missing to reduce waste flows and whether ENV works with a policy lens. Nagashima acknowledged ENV handles the backside of waste management but is working to be in tune with policies such as extended producer responsibility, packaging reduction, and take-back programs. ENV confirmed they have liaisons working with the policy side.
2. HOA Recycling Issues: Keating expressed frustration that private garbage collectors serving HOAs claim to separate recycling but throw everything in the same truck. She also raised the issue of HOA residents paying for their own garbage while single-family homeowners receive city collection free. Nagashima noted ENV reopened its front loader service for multifamily residents who can join the waitlist.
3. H-Power Prioritization Concern: Reis asked why H-Power sometimes rejects city/county waste while accepting private company waste first. Nagashima explained that private companies pay a tip fee to use H-Power, generating revenue for the city, and that H-Power priority is managed to maximize waste diversion from landfill.

[2:29:44] Chair Paris called for a voice vote, the motion was ADOPTED with a vote count of 8-0-0 (Aye: Lidstone, Ferreira, Medeiros, Kahele, Dudley, Bossler, Taala, Paris; Nay: Npne; Abstain: None) – [2:30:10]

Hawaiʻi Airspace Modernization Project – [2:31:07]: Mike Plowman, ʻEwa Neighborhood Board Military Affairs Chair and former Navy pilot, presented on the Hawaii Airspace Modernization Project:
• Background: Congress appropriated $13.5 billion (approximately 13 times the usual annual budget) to modernize the national airspace system. In Hawaii, this includes upgrading radios, radars, computers, and airspace routes/procedures. This creates an opportunity to address noise impacts on the ʻEwa plain.
• Community Impact: The ʻEwa plain is now home to approximately 120,000 residents directly impacted by aircraft noise from Honolulu runways. When the instrument approach procedures were first created, the area was a sparsely populated sugarcane plantation. Aircraft noise is a health and quality of life issue contributing to stress, sleep disruption, and difficulty learning for children.
• Key Request – Public Comments: The public comment window has been extended to March 15, 2026. The FAA can change runway use priorities, redirect traffic, and adjust procedures to reduce noise impacts. Community members are encouraged to submit public comments requesting noise abatement as a priority.
• Military Shooting Range/Airspace Safety Concern: Plowman raised a safety issue involving the protective airspace around a military firing range on short final approach to the Honolulu airport. The protective airspace for the range and the protective airspace for aircraft overlap considerably. Plowman requested the FAA reevaluate this spatial relationship to ensure public aircraft are not flying through the danger zone when the range is active.
• Resolution: The board discussed a resolution mirroring efforts by the ʻEwa, Diamond Head, and Pearl City neighborhood boards, with specific provisions for this district: maximizing runway usage for arrivals, limiting military fighter jets on certain runways, reassigning runways for departures and landings, and – specifically for this community – ensuring the scoping process does not lower the mandatory 1,500-foot altitude for Blue Hawaiian Helicopters that the company has been attempting to reduce for the past 20 years.

[2:41:47] Lidstone MOVED and Kahele SECONDED to adopt the resolution. Following discussion, a voice vote was conducted and ADOPTED with a vote count of 8-0-0 (Aye: Lidstone, Ferreira, Medeiros, Kahele, Dudley, Bossler, Taala, Paris; Nay: Npne; Abstain: None)

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:40:29]
1. Runway Clarification: Genadio asked Plowman to clarify the number of runways mentioned. Plowman confirmed there are four runways in each direction: Eight Left, Eight Right, Four Left, and Four Right.
2. Kalaeloa Tower Update: Ferreira stated that Kalaeloa is the backup for HNL in case of disaster. The current tower is a World War II model with no instrument capability. The Air National Guard runs the tower from 6:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. With the current FAA funding, he asked if the tower could be updated. Plowman suggested this be included in public comments. Ferreira noted a bill for this study previously went nowhere but the need is urgent as the facility is operating on waivers.

[2:41:47] Lidstone MOVED and Kahele SECONDED to adopt the resolution. Following discussion, a voice vote was conducted and ADOPTED with a vote count of 8-0-0 (Aye: Lidstone, Ferreira, Medeiros, Kahele, Dudley, Bossler, Taala, Paris; Nay: Npne; Abstain: None) – [2:42:16]

Resolution Amendment – Kalaeloa Tower [2:44:48]: Dudley MOVED and Kahele SECONDED. Hearing no discussion, a voice vote was conducted and ADOPTED with a vote count of 8-0-0 (Aye: Lidstone, Ferreira, Medeiros, Kahele, Dudley, Bossler, Taala, Paris; Nay: Npne; Abstain: None)

Touch-a-Truck – [2:45:25]: Katie Kaanapu, Marketing and Events Manager for Kapolei Commons, presented on the upcoming Touch-a-Truck event:
• Event Details: Saturday, March 7, 2026, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. at Kapolei Commons (in front of Regal Kapolei Theater). Over 40 large trucks (fire trucks, HPD command vehicles, cement mixers, etc.). Families and kids can explore trucks and meet drivers. 11th annual event sponsored by Kaiser Permanente. Approximately 5,000–8,000 attendees expected.
• Improvements for 2026: A quiet hour from 9:00–10:00 a.m. (no horns or sirens) for children with sensory needs. Kaiser Permanente mobile health vehicle (clinic on wheels). Food trucks and food tents.
• Traffic Mitigation: First year promoting Skyline rail attendance with a school bus shuttle from the West Oahu stop to the event. Overflow parking available at the Honolulu Star-Advertiser parking lot (across from Dennyʿs). DTS coordinating signal timing on Kalaeloa and Kapolei Parkway. HPD providing 13 special duty officers plus on-duty officers and two drones to monitor traffic live.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lvKiv-VEZAQ3qffjd20Oo6vWKgOj7HLJ/view?usp=drive_link

5. PUBLIC INPUT – [2:54:13]

[2:54:15] Chair Paris noted that public input would be allowed to go as long as needed, deferring all remaining board business.

Senator Mike Gabbard’s Office – [2:54:42]: Melanie June, Senator Gabbardʿs community liaison, shared the following: Senator Gabbard’s February newsletter is now available. Senator Gabbardʿs next listen story meeting will be Saturday, March 21, 2026, 9:00–10:00 a.m. at Kapolei High School Teachers Lounge (Zoom option available; email to RSVP).

Representative Diamond Garcia’s Office – [2:55:46]: Hunter Harris, on behalf of Representative Garcia, highlighted: Support requested for HB 2201 (Enterprise Zones) – in 2024, $271 million in revenue came in for participating businesses; the bill seeks to expand the program. Acknowledged attendees at the Fentanyl Awareness Town Hall held the previous night (with HPD and Hawaii County Mayor); noted that fentanyl deaths rose from 26 in 2020 to 107 in 2023, with 103 deaths in 2024. Community encouraged to join Representative Garcia’s e-blast newsletter.

Councilmember Andria Tupola’s Office – [2:56:58]: Kika Tapeni, representing Councilmember Tupola, announced: Cohort 8 of the R3 program is underway in the Kapolei area, running from the Kapolei State Library on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 5:00–6:00 p.m. (February 9 – May 27). Noted that the Landfill Ending Landfill Resolution 267 establishing a task force was sent to all neighborhood boards for support. Chair Paris noted the board already approved support at the special meeting.

Representative David Alcos – [2:57:55]: Representative Alcos offered to arrange field trips to review upcoming development facilities in Kalaeloa, including H-Power, the landfill, and a new brewery. Invited the board to contact his office.

6. BOARD BUSINESS – [2:58:44]: Chair Paris announced that all Board Business items are postponed to the next meeting.

7. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:58:47]

• Next Scheduled Meeting: The next meeting for Makakilo/Kapolei/Honokai Hale Neighborhood Board No. 34 is scheduled for March 25, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at Kapolei Hale – Conference Rooms A & B and online via WebEx (https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/nb34/).
• Prince Kūhiō Parade: The parade is on March 28, 2026, in Kapolei. Interested community members may contact Chair Paris or Board Community Liaison Sheila Medeiros to participate.
• 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 – [2:59:15]: The meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:59 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.