HAWAI‘I KAI NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 1

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA – Tuesday, April 28, 2026
Time and Location: 7:00 p.m., Hahaʻione Elementary School Cafeteria, and Web Access:
Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=mc6784c3106d34ccaa8d4be9e29f3279f
Meeting Number/Access Code: 2498 556 8981
Password: NB01 (6201)
Join by Phone: +1-408-418-9388
Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ZNUDkxp2QU3dU9HJritG0vz3iFWRBceU
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice

1. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Roberta Mayor
1.1. Introduction of Board members

2. STATUS REPORTS–Three (3) minutes maximum per department. Questions to follow.
2.1. Honolulu Fire Department
2.2. Honolulu Police Department
2.3. Board of Water Supply
2.4 Kaiser Complex Schools

3. COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS – Brief announcements by board members and
the public on events, activities, and general information directly relating to Hawaiʻi Kai.

4. PUBLIC-GENERATED ISSUES– Two (2) minutes per speaker. Questions to follow.
Issues/concerns not listed elsewhere on the Board’s agenda may be raised but no Board action may be taken because of the “Sunshine Law.”

5. PRESENTATIONS – Ten (10) minutes per presentation. Questions to follow. Discussion
or action as needed.
5.1. Community Climate Mandate for East Oʻahu (CCM-EO) – Presenter: Aloha McGuffie, Facilitator – CCM-EO Steering Committee, Executive Vice President – Ulumau, and At-Large Member, Waiʻalae-Kāhala Neighborhood Board #3.
5.2. Oʻahu Community Resilience Hubs – Presenter: Honu’āina Nichols, (Community Engagement for Resilient Neighborhoods (CERENE) Sustainability Lab, in partnership with the City & County of Honolulu Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency (CCSR).

6. VACANCIES: Three (3) At Large Seats
Appointment through June 2027. Three minutes per candidate. See endnote.1

7. OFFICIALS’ REPORTS – Three (3) minutes per speaker. Reports should relate to issues of interest to residents of Hawaiʻi Kai. Questions to follow.
7.1. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – Amy Asselbaye
7.2. City Council Chair Tommy Waters– District 4
7.3. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – Cameron Black
7.4. Senator Stanley Chang – District 9
7.5. Senator Chris Lee – District 25
7.6. Representative Joe Gedeon – District 18
7.7. Representative Mark Hashem – District 19
7.8. Congressional Representatives

8. BOARD BUSINESS – For discussion/action. Five (5) minutes per item.
8.1. Update on Kaʻiwi Coast Scenic Byway
8.2. Update on Kamilo Nui Valley Agriculture
8.3. Update on Koko Crater Stables

9. BOARD COMMITTEES
9.1. Board Committees: Transportation; Education; Parks & Recreation; Planning, Zoning & Environment
9.2. Announcements by committee chairpersons or members as needed.

10. APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING MINUTES – Minutes for Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

11. OTHER BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
11.1. Board Member Announcements
11.2. Board Chairperson Announcements
11.2.1. Correspondence
11.2.2. Other Announcements

12. CLOSING ANNOUNCEMENTS
12.1. The next regular meeting of the Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board is on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 7:00 pm at the Haha’ione Elementary School Cafeteria and on Webex. The Board is in recess during December.
12.2. Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board regular meetings are cablecast on Olelo Ch. 49 on the 2nd Monday of the following month at 9:00 p.m. and repeating on that month’s 3rd Friday at 7:00 a.m. Videos can also be seen online at www.olelo.org/olelonet (search “Hawaiʻi Kai Board”), or via www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards (“Board Meeting Video Archive”).

13. ADJOURNMENT

1 VACANCIES: Three (3) At-Large Seats. Appointment through June 30, 2027. Candidates must be 18 or older and reside in the district (bring official ID). Board majority of at least eight votes needed for appointment. More than one round of voting may occur. Successful candidate(s) will take Oath of Office upon appointment. Boundary descriptions are available online at http://www.honolulu.gov/cms-nco-menu/site-nco-sitearticles/20115-board-subdistrict-descriptions.html.

Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board

For agenda, minutes, member contact directory, and other information, go to www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards.

To receive this Board’s agenda and minutes by mail or email, visit the Neighborhood Commission Office, 925 Dillingham Blvd., Suite 160, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi 96817; call 768-3710 or fax 768-3711; or go to www.honolulu.gov/nco.

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
TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2026, AT 7:00 PM
IN PERSON AT HAHA’IONE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CAFETERIA, 595 PEPE’EKEO ST, HONOLULU, HI 96825 AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Video recording of this meeting is found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKy6LfvoyvY

Meeting materials are found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ZNUDkxp2QU3dU9HjritG0vz3iFWRBceU

1. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:08] Chair Roberta Mayor called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. Quorum WAS established with 9 members of the Board present. Note: This 15-member Board requires eight (8) members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action.

Board Members Present: Robbie Allen, Paige Altonn, Lisa Bishop, Greg Knudsen, Elijah Lee, Roberta Mayor, Herbert Schreiner, Samuel Wolff, Paula Bender, Johanna Ward (7:02 p.m.), Elizabeth Reilly (7:02 p.m. online), Tiffany Donnelly (7:16 p.m. online).

Board Members Absent: None.

Guests: Captain W. Parker (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Miura (Honolulu Police Department); Iris Oda (Board of Water Supply); Principal Shannon Goo (Kaiser Complex Schools); Management Analyst Galen Wong (Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation); Tom Cooper (Haha’ione Advocates for Respectful Development); Executive Director Amy Asselbaye (Mayor’s Representative); Council Chair Tommy Waters and Adam Doo; Cameron Black (Governor’s Representative); Casey Shoji (Senator Stanley Chang); Representative Joe Gedeon; Jane Taylor (Representative of Mark Hashem’s Office); Laura, Kimberly Hollingsworth, Johnnie-Mae L. Perry, and Rachel B. (Residents); and Anson Wu (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name not included if not legible or stated for the record. There were approximately 37 total participants.

2. STATUS REPORTS – [0:02:07]

Ward and Reilly arrived to the meeting at 7:02 p.m. 11 members present.

Honolulu Fire Department – [0:02:24]: Captain W. Parker provided the report and highlighted the following:
• Addressed a Previous Question from the February 2026 meeting: The location of the five mountain rescues reported in January 2026 was at the Koko Head Trail.
• February 2026 Statistics: 1 nuisance fire; 2 cooking fires; 6 activated alarms with no fires; and 86 medical emergencies.
• March 2026 Fire Safety Tip – Smoke Alarms: Smoke alarms save lives and are an important part of a home fire escape plan. Properly installed and maintained smoke alarms give occupants early warning to get outside quickly. Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on each level of the home. Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button. Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or stop responding when tested.

Honolulu Police Department – [0:05:012]: Lieutenant Miura from District 7 provided the report and highlighted the following:
• February 2026 statistics: 2 motor vehicle thefts; 1 burglary; 6 thefts; 1 unauthorized entry into motor vehicle (UEMV); and 5,229 total calls for service.
• March 2026 Safety Tip – Disaster Preparedness: Noting recent statewide disasters, Lieutenant Miura reminded residents to be prepared for hurricanes, tsunamis, and increased Pacific Rim earthquake activity. Key reminders: make an emergency plan with escape routes and meeting places; check emergency equipment; check and replenish first aid supplies; trim tree and shrub limbs away from house wires; individuals with special needs should plan ahead; and review insurance policies for adequate coverage.

Board of Water Supply – [0:07:26]: Iris Oda reported no main breaks in February 2026. The Board of Water Supply is observing Detect A Leak Week from Sunday, April 12, 2026 to Saturday, April 18, 2026, partnering with the City to encourage residents to find and fix household leaks; free toilet leak detection dye tablets are available at two outreach events – Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Mililani Town Center from noon–2:00 p.m. and Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Kahala Mall from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., as well as at the BWS lobby at 630 Beretania Street and all satellite city halls. Oda provided an update regarding an uneven road at three locations.

Kaiser Complex Schools – [0:10:43]: Principal Shannon Goo provided the report and highlighted the following: the Department of Education (DOE) has faced a challenging period due to storm damage, but Kaiser Complex students, staff, and families responded with compassion – notably, student Ariana Sansano coordinated a complex-wide drive for flood victim supplies and organized service projects for all six schools. Upcoming events include Aloha in Action Day on Saturday, April 11, 2026 (all schools participating in community service, with Hahaʻione Elementary assisting at a farm in Waimānalo), Earthfest on Friday, April 17, 2026 on Kaiser’s Great Lawn from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., and the Hahaʻione Elementary Exhibition Night (Public Display of Work) on Thursday, April 16, 2026 in the cafeteria, open to the public with 28 fifth-grade compassion project booths. Every Kaiser Complex School offers a free summer learning hub, and career exploration is a major focus through career fairs, guest speakers, and industry professional projects, with the complex currently partnering with Hawaiʻi Workforce Pipeline. The Hahaʻione Fun Fair is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026 with games, rides, and food booths.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:14:36]
1. Earthfest Location Confirmation: Altonn asked whether Earthfest would be held on Kaiser’s Great Lawn. Principal Goo confirmed it is on Kaiser’s Great Lawn.
2. Career Mentoring Program: Altonn suggested a mentoring program pairing Kaiser Graduates with students interested in specific careers. Principal Goo responded that mentoring often occurs organically, but a coordinated program would be a great idea; he noted the school works with Hawaiʻi Workforce Pipeline and would welcome a network of alumni. A community member noted that Representative Gedeon, a Kaiser graduate with strong ties to Hahaʻione Elementary, would be a good mentor candidate.

Donnelly arrived to the meeting at 7:16 p.m. 12 members present.

Kaiser High School Student Representative – [0:17:53]: Eloise Harrison Jones, a sophomore at Kaiser High School and president of the Wipeout Crew, spoke about Earthfest and the club’s 12-year history of sustainability work, including collecting over 19,000 pounds of marine trash from Oʻahu beaches, maintaining a school sustainability garden, and partnering with Maunalua Fish Pond Heritage Center and Aloha Tree Alliance. This year’s Earthfest theme is “Our Power, Our Planet,” celebrating Earth Day with live music, food trucks, educational nonprofits, small businesses, and artists at Kaiser’s Great Lawn on Friday, April 17, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Flyers are available at the meeting, and Harrison Jones thanked the neighborhood board for the opportunity to present.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:20:01]
1. Earthfest Hours: Bender asked for the hours of the event. Eloise Harrison Jones confirmed the event runs from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026.

Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) – [0:20:39]: Management Analyst Galen Wong provided the report and highlighted the following: that the HDOT Highways Division currently has 44 bills moving through the Legislature – 22 House bills and 22 Senate bills. Two major bills were highlighted: House Bill (HB) 2021 HD2 SD1, which seeks to clarify and amend e-bike laws regarding use by the public and at Department of Education schools, correcting a bill vetoed by the governor last session; and HB 2033 HD2 SD1, which seeks to make the photo enforcement program permanent and clarify related statutes.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:22:23]
1. Trash Containers Installation: Bishop reported a resident’s concern about littering at the lookout area on Kalanianaʻole Highway between Koko Marina Center and Hanauma Bay, and asked about the feasibility of placing trash containers there. Wong confirmed the area is likely under HDOT jurisdiction and offered to check with the Oʻahu District office and follow up next month.
2. Parking Rules at Hanauma Bay Lookout: Altonn asked about the rules and statutes governing parking at the lookout, noting that vehicles – including buses – stop and block the highway on the Sandy Beach side while waiting for the Hanauma Bay parking lot to open, causing significant morning traffic backups. Wong said he would look into the parking regulations and enforcement responsibility and report back next month.
3. HDOT Bill Numbers: Stanfield asked Wong to repeat the two bill numbers. Wong confirmed HB 2021 and HB 2033.

3. COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS – [0:28:08]

Hahaʻione Advocates for Respectful Development (HARD) – [0:28:26]: Tom Cooper, representing HARD, reported that the organization advocates for the protection and preservation of the JAIMS Building (adjacent to Hahaʻione Elementary School), the Koko Head Building, and the Abling Building (housing 7-Eleven and Boston Pizza), and seeks to prevent high-rise or commercial development on those sites; the HARD petition has been signed by thousands across Oʻahu, including Kamehameha Schools alumni, faculty, staff, and parents. What is new: Co-leader Cheryl Park arranged a community open house inside the JAIMS Building for Saturday, May 9, 2026, 10:00 a.m.–noon, but Kamehameha Schools Bishop Estate (KSBE) informed the JAIMS Building director that no such open house could take place without KSBE’s permission. Cheryl Park has since written KSBE requesting permission and inviting them to co-host; KSBE replied only that they are reviewing the letter. HARD has also met with the Mayor’s Chief of Staff to discuss potential city uses for the building, and Cooper urged the community to hold Saturday, May 9, 2026 on their calendars pending KSBE’s response.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:33:34]
1. Signatories from Kamehameha Schools Community: Altonn asked whether people from Kamehameha Schools had signed the HARD petition. Cooper confirmed that signatories include Kamehameha Schools alumni, current students’ parents, staff, and faculty – not those at the organizational decision-making level.
2. Prior Contact with Kamehameha Schools: Altonn asked about prior HARD interactions with KSBE. Cooper explained that HARD held a Zoom meeting with three KSBE representatives, who presented their legacy video and stated there was no plan for the property; HARD found the community input KSBE cited to be limited and dated, and not specifically related to the JAIMS Building.
3. Legal Basis for KSBE’s Objection: Knudsen asked what authority KSBE cited in blocking the open house. Cooper responded that KSBE provided no specific legal rationale and that the notification came as a phone call to the JAIMS Building director, followed by written correspondence; Cooper remains open to the possibility that this could open a door to direct communication with KSBE.
4. Potential Dates for the Open House: Schreiner asked about the dates. Cooper confirmed the proposed date is Saturday, May 9, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to noon.
5. Community Letters to KSBE: A resident asked whether community letters to KSBE requesting approval for the open house would help. Cooper expressed openness to the idea and said he would consult with Cheryl Park before pursuing it.
6. Clarification on Open House Organizer: Altonn asked who initiated the open house and whether Kamehameha Schools was involved in organizing it. Cooper clarified that Cheryl Park initiated the idea and approached the JAIMS Building director; KSBE has been invited, not required, to co-host.

4. PUBLIC-GENERATED ISSUES – [0:41:02]

Vehicles Parked at Sandy Beach and Kalama Valley Water/Road Repairs – [0:41:21]: Rachel B. reported concerns about vehicles parked near the second bathroom closest to Kalama Valley at Sandy Beach. Rachel B. also asked about ongoing water system work in Kalama Valley, requesting a projected completion date and whether roads would be repaved once construction is complete.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:42:23]:
1. Clarification of Concern: Chair Mayor asked for clarification. Rachel B. confirmed the issue is the vehicles – including two old handy vans and a tourist-type van parked multiple months already and is possibly a homeless encampment near the second bathroom closest to Kalama Valley.
2. Sewer Repairs Clarification: Chair Mayor asked if Rachel B. had contacted Hawaiʻi American Sewer System. Rachel B. clarified she hasn’t contacted them.
3. BWS Update on Kalama Valley Project: Chair Mayor asked Iris Oda to provide an update. Oda replied that the project is approximately 45% complete, and she does not have an estimated completion date; residents may check the Board of Water Supply website under “construction status” for updates. Oda confirmed that BWS will repave the trench areas at a minimum upon completion; she was uncertain whether the full roadway would be repaved and offered to inquire.

Mariners Ridge Constituent Concerns – [0:45:40]: Lee raised concerns from a Mariners Ridge constituent about the park-and-ride across from Hawaiʻi Kai Town Center, the adjacent boat lot, the great lawn, and the area around the post office – specifically overgrowth of trees, inadequate maintenance, and reports of possible homeless activity.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:46:12]:
1. Homeless Activity at Park-and-Ride: Schreiner reported that beat officers have been addressing the park-and-ride homeless situation through repeated ticketing until warrants are generated and noted the situation has recently improved.
2. Personal Observations of Homeless Activity: Ward shared personal observations of individuals hopping the fence from bushes near the park-and-ride early in the morning and walking into the great lawn brush in midday, noting that overgrowth provides concealment.
3. Hawaiʻi Kai Marina Association Responsibility: Reilly noted that the Hawaiʻi Kai Marina Association should be contacted as the area is predominantly their land, and recalled a previous coordinated effort with the Marina Association to address similar issues around the Dog Park and park-and-ride.
4. History of Clearing along Hawaiʻi Kai Drive: Ward noted that the clearing of vegetation on the right side of Hawaiʻi Kai Drive was done years ago specifically to address concealment in that area, replacing vegetation with a paved platform.

5. PRESENTATIONS – [0:49:57]: No presentations were scheduled for this meeting.

Ad Hoc Committee Proposal – [0:50:04]: Chair Mayor proposed forming an ad hoc committee of board members to identify community vulnerabilities and areas of need exposed during the recent storms, with the goal of proactively notifying the city before the next major weather event. Bender, Allen, and Lee volunteered. Chair Mayor asked the three members to contact each other, compile a list of vulnerabilities, and present a proposal to the full board at a later meeting.

6. VACANCIES: Three (3) At-Large Seats – [0:51:31]: No volunteers.

7. OFFICIALS’ REPORTS – [0:51:53]

Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [0:52:03]: Executive Director Amy Asselbaye provided the report and highlighted the following: regarding flood relief, temporary debris collection sites have closed and residents should use the city’s regular trash and bulky item pickup for storm debris, with resources available on the reactivated OneOahu website. On the Koko Crater Stables, Asselbaye answered five outstanding questions: (1) the concessionaire accepted the property in existing condition and was responsible for operational improvements per the contract terms; (2) $350,000 was budgeted in Bill 23 (2025); (3) no additional CIP funds will be allocated this year as the $350,000 is valid through June 2027; (4) $280,000 of those funds is designated for a phased CIP project for the Koko Crater Botanical Garden and Stables entrance, parking, and shared comfort station, with waterline improvement phases bidding between July 2026 and October 2027; and (5) the contractor is Shimabukuro Endo and Yoshiaki Incorporated. Mayor’s town halls will be held Thursday, April 23, 2026 at Waimānalo District Park, Thursday, May 14, 2026 at Mission Memorial, and Thursday May 21, 2026 at the Ala Wai Golf Course Ballroom, all from 6:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:02:34]
1. Phase 2 Construction Details: Chair Mayor asked what construction would occur in Phase 2. Asselbaye confirmed these are all waterline improvements.
2. Contract Line Items Paddock Materials: Altonn asked whether the 60 contract line items included the paddock wood, nails, and structures removed by the previous concessionaire (Horse Haven) when they left. Asselbaye said she has not seen the list of 60-line items but offered to find out whether paddock and structural materials were included.
3. $350,000 Timeline and Constraints: Altonn asked about the timeline and allowable uses for the $350,000 CIP allocation. Asselbaye confirmed the funds are available from 2025 through 2027, with $280,000 already designated for the botanical garden/stables entrance project across Phases 1A, 1B, and 2.
4. Written Report Request: Knudsen asked that Asselbaye’s written report be distributed to all board members given the complexity of the information. Asselbaye agreed.
5. Community Asset Acknowledgment and Clarification on Stables Funds: Reilly asked whether any portion of the $280,000 goes directly to on-the-ground stable improvements. She also emphasized that the Koko Crater Stables are a cherished community asset rooted in the heritage of Maunalua, and that the board’s persistent questions reflect a commitment to preserving that resource.
6. Vendor Contract Expiration and Public Access: Rachel B. asked when the current concessionaire’s contract expires, and whether the contract requires the stables to be open to the public. Asselbaye confirmed she would take those questions back and report at a future meeting.
7. Frustration with City’s Handling: Schreiner expressed strong frustration with the city’s management of the stable’s situation, questioning why it has taken years to clarify that the concessionaire is responsible for restoring the facility, and why the $350,000 has primarily been directed toward botanical garden infrastructure rather than stable improvements.
8. Unsafe Structures and City Liability: Reilly asked for clarification at the next meeting on when the city will address the unsafe structures at the stables, which she noted create a liability and safety issue and have contributed to limiting public access to the site.
9. Kaluanui Road Concern: Lee raised a constituent’s concern about the ongoing road construction project on Kaluanui Road: the upper portion is blocked to one lane with two-way traffic on the other side, with no confirmed long-term solution; the lower portion has worn and tree root damage affecting gutters and sidewalks. Asselbaye committed to following up on both issues.
10. Community Patience and Call for Action: Altonn expressed strong frustration on behalf of the community and the current stables concessionaire, noting that the board, residents, and the vendor have been enormously patient over multiple years. She called on the Mayor, the Department of Parks and Recreation, the Department of Enterprise Services, and the concessionaire to convene a meeting to resolve the situation, and stated that the city’s lack of urgency is unacceptable given the stables’ importance to the community.
11. Concessionaire’s Clarification: Hollingsworth (online) clarified that the stables are open by appointment only per the city’s direction, and that her hands are tied, waiting for the city to authorize reopening. She offered to schedule visits for interested community members and noted that structures at the facility are 60–70 years old and breaking down.

City Council Chair’s Office – [1:22:03]: Council Chair Tommy Waters provided his report and highlighted the following: he reported that HPD reclassified the Sandy Beach vehicle vandalism case as Criminal Property Damage in the Second Degree (Class C felony) based on damages exceeding $3,000; while two park rule violation citations were issued and the parents of one identified minor were contacted, Waters expressed frustration at the limited outcome and offered to push HPD for further follow-up, including identifying and interviewing all parties involved. He reported that $34 million has been included as a placeholder in the city budget to potentially purchase the JAIMS Building at its tax-assessed value, should Kamehameha Schools agree to sell, while cautioning that Kona low storm costs estimated at $34–$52 million citywide may affect available funds; he encouraged board members to testify at honolulucitycouncil.org and noted his staff is also exploring long-term leasing as an alternative. Finally, he warned that SB 2423 – which would have allowed subdivision of residential lots to 2,500 sq. ft. by right without public input, potentially enabling 12 or more units on a standard lot size when combined with existing Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) laws – was withdrawn this session after community opposition but will return next year, urging the board to remain vigilant.

Altonn left the meeting at 8:23 p.m. 11 members present.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:36:08]
1. Stream Maintenance: Schreiner commended the stream maintenance efforts following the Kona low.
2. Ditch Maintenance and SB 2423 Concern: Bender asked that irrigation ditch maintenance be included alongside stream cleaning, noting invasive trees growing through a paved ditch behind her home. Bender also raised concerns of SB 2423 and questioned who created the bill. Waters agreed and said he would advocate for ditch cleaning in addition to stream maintenance. Waters believes that the introducers of the bill had good intentions.
3. Sandy Beach Boulder Barrier: Chair Mayor suggested placing a boulder barrier around the Sandy Beach grass area to prevent vehicles from driving on it again, referencing a similar successful installation at the Wawamalu Beach parking area. Waters expressed strong support and committed to pursuing it.
4. SB 2423 and Neighborhood Board Advocacy: Reilly asked about proactive steps the neighborhood board system could take against SB 2423 when it returns next year, suggesting coordinating with the governor and other neighborhood boards island-wide.
5. $34 Million Valuation, Toxic Debris Dumping, and Communications Resiliency: Wolff asked how the $34 million figure was determined (tax-assessed value) and raised two additional concerns: storm debris dumped at Patsy Mink Park without a protective ground liner, creating potential long-term soil contamination from lead and asbestos; and the loss of cell service during the storm, leaving tens of thousands of residents unable to call for help or receive emergency notifications. Waters acknowledged all three points and noted communications resiliency will be discussed at an Emergency Management hearing the following day.
6. Federal Funding for Storm Recovery: Bishop echoed concerns about communications infrastructure and asked about the status of the federal funding request. Waters confirmed the governor has made the request and the state is waiting, noting that federal reimbursements can take many years.
7. Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) Development Parking Concerns: Schreiner raised concerns about parking for the proposed DHHL development across from the post office, noting the area lacks adequate street parking. Waters agreed to raise the issue with DHHL Director Kali Watson. Chair Mayor suggested fewer units with included parking as a possible compromise. Knudsen noted that he spoke with DHHL Director Kali Watson approximately one week prior. Watson is aware of community concerns, the project would likely include fewer than 80 units with parking as a primary consideration, and Watson did not indicate the project would be withdrawn.

Governor Josh Green’s Representative – [1:53:39]: Cameron Black provided the report and highlighted the following: as of Wednesday, March 4, 2026, DHHL had not yet acquired the parcel across from the post office with due diligence still ongoing; and parking will be part of their consideration. The Portlock siren was tested at Lumahaʻi Street at the start of the month and sounded loudly; with the next test on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 Black will continue monitoring and report back. On Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) activity in Kamilo Nui Valley, the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity confirmed the mulch pile at Kamilo Nui Place is a concern and recommended spreading it to no more than 2 inches thick; V-cuts on some palm fronds are suspicious and Black will follow up on enforcement once the Department’s rule-making process at the Plant Quarantine Branch is further along. Black also noted that the Executive Office of Early Learning is accepting applications for a free public pre-kindergarten program for children ages 3–4; residents can check the Executive Office of Early Learning’s website for participating schools.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [1:57:35]
1. DHHL Development Traffic Flow Concerns: Lee raised a constituent concern about traffic flow at the proposed DHHL development, noting the roadway is already busy and vehicles turning into the lot could create further congestion. Black agreed to pass this concern along and noted DHHL knows they should present to the board when the time is right.
2. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Status: Schreiner asked about the status of FEMA operations amid the federal government shutdown. Black acknowledged uncertainty and committed to following up on the federal reimbursement process and FEMA’s current role in the response.
3. Molokai Radar Status: Wolff asked about the status of the Molokai weather radar, which was reportedly down during the storm events, and whether it is state or federal controlled. He emphasized that the radar’s absence was a significant lapse in warning capability with an active summer season approaching. Black confirmed it is a National Weather Service facility, acknowledged it has come up repeatedly in emergency response calls, and committed to checking its current status before the next meeting.

Senator Stanley Chang’s Office – [2:01:01]: Casey Shoji provided Senator Chang’s monthly newsletter and offered to forward community concerns to the Senator Chang’s Office.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:01:43]
1. SB 2423 Sponsorship: Chair Mayor asked whether Senator Chang sponsored SB 2423. Shoji confirmed the senator was a sponsor and offered to forward the board’s concerns and request that the senator provide a statement for the board.
2. Board Opposition to Lot Subdivision Bill: Chair Mayor asked Shoji to convey that the board and community do not support reducing residential lots to 2,500 square feet by right, and that doing so would also create additional problems because the current ADU law would allow each subdivided lot to then host up to two additional ADUs.
3. Request for Town Hall with Council Chair Waters: Reilly expressed disappointment that this is the second time Senator Chang has co-authored legislation that dismantles the livability of the district without community consultation, and asked that the senator consider holding a town hall with Council Chair Waters and Representative Gedeon to discuss housing issues before introducing similar proposals.
4. Lack of Checks and Balances: Bender expressed concern about the bill’s removal of any oversight by state or county authorities, allowing development to proceed without any public approval process.
5. Governor’s Executive Order as Root Cause: Reilly added that the governor’s executive order declaring a housing emergency – which allows projects to bypass the normal permitting process – has contributed to the proliferation of these types of bills, and that rescinding the governor’s executive order would help address the root cause.

Senator Chris Lee – [2:07:10]: No representative was present.

Representative Joe Gedeon – [2:07:36]: Representative Joe Gedeon provided his report and highlighted the following: he applauded schools and residents for storm relief efforts, noting that his office connected community organizers with heavy machinery rental companies and petroleum providers Par Hawaiʻi and Texaco to donate equipment and fuel. He reported that DHHL Director Kali Watson has been shown video evidence of the parking situation near the proposed development lot; and noted Rep. Hashem helped kill HB 1919 (parking minimums) on the House floor. Gedeon suggested a joint HPD/ Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) task force to patrol Sandy Beach temporarily to break the cycle of bad actors. His most recent Talk Story event focused on homelessness, featuring the state homelessness coordinator Jun Yang, River of Life Mission Kealiʻi Kane Gray, Institute for Human Services (IHS) outreach coordinator Castro Masaniai, and HPD Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Officer Matsumoto; Gedeon expressed interest in accompanying IHS staff to connect homeless individuals at Joe Lukela Beach Park with available services. Coastal engineer Taylor Caster reported interest in providing vegetation recommendations for the newly constructed Maunalua Bay shoreline improvements, with a mid-session community survey now available at repgedeon.com. On legislation, Gedeon highlighted HB 2021 (e-bike safety – rules on safe riding, school restrictions, and registration; passed the House and nearing a Senate vote), HR 142 (hurricane shelter evaluation resolution, the resolution passed through the housing committee on public safety and will be heard soon by the housing committee), a resolution for permanent pickleball court nets and lighting at Kamiloiki Park, and an HCR – inspired by a third-grade student from Hahaʻione Elementary – urging DLNR to identify East Oʻahu locations for Native Hawaiian tree planting.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:19:50]
1. E-bike Bill and Hawaiʻi Bicycling League: Bender, a participant in the Hawaiʻi Bicycling League, asked whether Travis Council is aligned with HB 2021. Gedeon said he would check testimony but recalled that a Hawaiʻi Bicycling League representative had recently visited his office and may have been supportive; he would verify.
2. Capitol Visitation: Chair Mayor noted the neighborhood board received an invitation to visit the Capitol on Friday, April 10, 2026 and asked about the schedule. Gedeon explained that a Capitol tour could begin around 10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m., followed by joining the floor session at noon where the board would be formally recognized from the floor. Chair Mayor asked board members interested in attending to contact her.

Representative Mark Hashem’s Office – [2:22:19]: Jane Taylor provided the report and highlighted the following: Representative Hashem is assisting constituents with storm damage concerns and coordinating with City and County to expedite stream maintenance work orders. The Legislature is past crossover, with approximately 45 Senate bills heard and the House now focused on resolutions, with 14 heard that day and more the following week. The Hawaiʻi Kai Public Library will host a spring book sale Wednesday, April 8, 2026 to Saturday, April 11, 2026 during regular library hours (cash or check only), and Little Fire Ant treatment kits dropped off by Representative Hashem are available at the library, with additional information in his newsletter.

Congressional Representatives – [2:25:07]: No representatives were present.

8. BOARD BUSINESS – [2:25:13]

Update on Kaiwi Coast Scenic Byway – [2:25:19]: Chair Mayor noted the earlier discussion regarding the Sandy Beach vandalism and the restoration work that will be needed. No additional updates.

Update on Kamilo Nui Valley Agriculture – [2:25:47]: Reilly provided an update: the nursery she volunteers at suffered significant damage during the Kona low with the valley flooded and cut in half; the valley was closed for several days. Kamehameha Schools, as landowner, works with Mariners Cove and Kamilo Nui farmers under the Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization’s Firewise program, and a Firewise work event is planned for the end of April 2026 at the back of the valley to expand the existing fire break, with Team Rubicon assisting. Board members and community volunteers interested in participating should contact Reilly.

Update on Koko Crater Stables – [2:27:37]: Chair Mayor noted the detailed update provided during the Mayor’s Representative’s report.

9. BOARD COMMITTEES – [2:27:48]

Planning, Zoning and Environment Committee – [2:27:54]: Co-Chairs Johanna Ward and Elizabeth Reilly reported on the Planning, Zoning and Environment Committee meeting held on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at the Hawaiʻi Kai Public Library regarding G70’s proposed further development adjacent to Koko Villas. The meeting was standing room only with approximately 70 attendees; G70’s project representative made an extensive presentation, with a majority of the time devoted to community questions. Most attendees were opposed to the project as proposed. G70 has since reached out to the committee with follow-up questions, and another Planning, Zoning and Environment Committee meeting with G70 is anticipated for June 2026 or July 2026 at the Hawaiʻi Kai Public Library; a written overview report will be filed. Knudsen noted that printed handouts from the meeting are available for board members who did not attend, and emphasized that the board has been involved in and opposing this issue for over 20 years.

Board Committees: Transportation; Education; Parks & Recreation – [2:31:41]: Chair Mayor solicited board member volunteers for the Transportation and Education committees. Schreiner confirmed his continued interest in Parks and Recreation. Bender, Ward, and Lee volunteered for the Transportation Committee. No volunteers for the Education Committee at this time; Chair Mayor invited any interested members to contact her.

10. APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING MINUTES – [2:33:23]

Minutes for Tuesday, January 27, 2026 – [2:33:29]: [2:33:34] – Hearing no additions or corrections, the minutes for the Tuesday, January 27, 2026 Board meeting WAS ADOPTED as written; 11-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Bishop, Donnelly, Knudsen, Lee, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Wolff, Ward, and Bender; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [2:33:44].

Minutes for Tuesday, February 24, 2026 – [2:33:51]: [2:33:57] – Hearing no additions or corrections, the minutes for the Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Board meeting WAS ADOPTED as written; 11-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Bishop, Donnelly, Knudsen, Lee, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Wolff, Ward, and Bender; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [2:34:05].

11. OTHER BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:34:12]: No announcements.

12. CLOSING ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:34:17]

Next Regular Meeting – [2:34:21]: The next regular meeting of the Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board is on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the Hahaʻione Elementary School Cafeteria, 595 Pepeʻekeo St., Honolulu, HI 96825, and on Webex.

ʻŌlelo – [2:34:35]: The Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board regular meetings are cablecast on ʻŌlelo Ch. 49 on the 2nd Monday of the following month at 9:00 p.m. and repeating on that month’s 3rd Friday at 7:00 a.m. Videos can also be seen online at www.olelo.org/olelonet (search “Hawaiʻi Kai Board”), or via www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards (“Board Meeting Video Archive”).

13. ADJOURNMENT – [2:35:08]: Chair Mayor adjourned the meeting at 9:35 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted By: Anson Wu, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed By: Lindon Valenciano, Public Relations Assistant, NCO
Reviewed By: Lisa Bishop, Neighborhood Board Secretary
Reviewed and Finalized By: Roberta Mayor, Neighborhood Board Chair

To view agenda and minutes, visit our board website.

Event shows physical location; however, other options of participation may also include WebEx and phone.  If available, instructions for WebEx and phone can be found at the top of the agenda.