HAWAI‘I KAI NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 1

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA – Tuesday, September 30, 2025
Time and Location: 7:00 pm, Hahaʻione Elementary School Cafeteria, and Web Access:
Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=mb04ad07200c8fdcab312f72181833403
Meeting Number/Access Code: 2492 606 3385
Password: NB01
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
2.5. Hawaii Department of Transportation – Galen Wong: Follow-up on Board Questions

3. COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS – Brief announcements by board members and
the public on events, activities, and general information directly relating to Hawaii Kai.
3.1. Hawaii Kai Holiday Parade is Scheduled for Saturday, November 29, 2025 at 10:00
a.m., Hosted by the Hawaii Kai Lions Club and Koko Marina Center

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. Climate Action Pathways Report, Released by the State of Hawaii Climate Change
Mitigation and Adaptation Commission (CCMAC) – Presenter: Bill Unruh, Climate
Outreach Leader, Hawaii State Climate Commission
5.2. Yellow-Faced Bee Conservation and Management – Presenter: Janis Matsunaga,
Entomologist, Division of Forestry & Wildlife, Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources

6.VACANCIES: Sub-districts 1, 8 and 9.
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 Hawaii 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

Hawaii Kai Neighborhood Board No. 1 Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, September 30, 2025        Page 2 of 2

8. BOARD BUSINESS – For discussion/action.  Five (5) minutes per item.
8.1. Update on Kaiwi Coast Scenic Byway
8.2. Update on Kamilo Nui Valley Agriculture
8.3. Consider Sending Letter to Honolulu City Council to Revise Ordinances Governing Commercial Vehicles on Residential Streets
8.4. Consider Closing Kamiloiki Community Park Restrooms Overnight (10:00 pm – 5:00 am)

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 August 26, 2025.

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 Hawaii Kai Neighborhood Board is on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 7:00 pm at the Haha’ione Elementary School Cafeteria and on Webex.
12.2. Hawaii 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 “Hawaii Kai Board”), or via www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards (“Board Meeting Video Archive”).

13. ADJOURNMENT

1 VACANCIES: SUB DISTRICT 1 (Marina West), SUB DISTRICT 8 (Lunalilo Park, Mauka) and SUB DISTRICT 9 (Lunalilo Park, Makai) – Appointment through June 30, 2027. Candidates must be 18 or older and reside in their 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.

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, Hawaii 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 at least three (3) business days before the scheduled meeting. It may not be possible to fulfill requests received after this date.

DRAFT INITIAL CONVENING MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
TUESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2025, 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:
Meeting materials are found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ZNUDkxp2QU3dU9HJritG0vz3iFWRBceU

1. CALL TO ORDER [0:00:10] Acting Chair Roberta Mayor called the meeting to order at 7:02 pm. A quorum was established with 11 of 15 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, Tiffany Donnelly, Greg Knudsen, Elijah Lee (joined 8:00 pm), Roberta Mayor, Elizabeth Reilly (joined 7:10 pm), Herb Schreiner, Johanna Ward (joined 7:55 pm), and Samuel Wolff

Board Members Absent: Anika Gauthier

Guest Total 42 (34 live, 8 remote): Firefighter John Davis (Honolulu Fire Department, HFD), Lieutenant Miura and Sergeant Asing (Honolulu Police Department, HPD), Civil Engineer Iris Oda (Board of Water Supply), Principal Shannon Goo, Student Body President of Kaiser High School Ella Miller, and Mr. Paul Dela Balaz (Kaiser Complex Schools), Senior Planner Mike Buck (Honolulu Emergency Services Department, HESD), Legacy Land Agent Laakea Rabes (Office of Hawaiian Affairs, OHA), Office Manager Yvonne Yoro and Interns Ella Alexander and Olivia Eagle (Office of Representative Amy Perusso), Management Analyst Galen Wong (Hawaiʻi State Department of Transportation), Executive Director Amy Asselbaye and Director Laura Thielen (Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative), Energy Analyst Cameron Black (Governor Josh Green’s Representative), Casey Shoji (Office of Senator Stanley Chang), Representative Joe Gedeon, LM, NY, Carla Allison, Tom Cooper, Maile Greenhill, Tara Malia Gren, Richard Johnson, Julian Lipsher, Kaleo Nakoa, Ken Peck, Olelo Virtual, and Brandon Tsark (Neighborhood Commission Office) (Name may be omitted if inaudible, illegible, or otherwise not provided).

2. STATUS REPORTS [0:04:45]

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) [0:05:10]: Firefighter John Davis reported July 2025 statistics: 0 fires, 6 activated alarms, 93 medical emergencies, 7 motor-vehicle collisions, 7 mountain rescues, and 0 ocean rescues and hazardous-material incidents. Firefighter Davis also provided fire safety tips on staying informed during emergencies through opt-in alerts and public warning systems.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:08:25]: Wailupe Fire Station: Board Member Schreiner asked whether or not Wailupe Fire Station has changed location, to which Firefighter Davis responded that it is still in the same location.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) [0:9:20]: Lieutenant Miura from District 7 provided May 2025 crime statistics (3 motor-vehicle thefts, 9 unauthorized entries into motor vehicle, 7 thefts, 2 burglaries, and 5,662 total calls for service), directed public to (honolulupd.org) for full statistics, reminded community of back-to-school season, and provided safety tips for children walking and biking to school.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:11:05]: Commercial Vehicle Parking Enforcement: Board Member Mayor asked if HPD cites commercial vehicles, boats, and boat trailers parked on residential streets that constrict traffic flow. Lieutenant Miura confirmed they cite when possible but explained that boats involve legal hurdles with multiple agencies, such as Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), with notifying owners to move vehicles being the quickest solution. He also confirmed that citations are issued based on Ordinance ROH 15-16.6.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) [0:13:50]: Civil Engineer Iris Oda reported 0 main breaks for July and announced “Imagine a Day Without Water” family event, September 20, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, at Windward Mall Center Court.

Kaiser Complex Schools [0:15:25]: Principal Shannon Goo reported that Kaiser Complex is one of only seven K-12 International Baccalaureate systems worldwide (out of 1,925 individual IB schools in the US and 5,964 globally), emphasizing their prestigious free international education that focuses on “student agency” where students are “meaning makers” – giving students choice, voice, and ownership in their learning to build intrinsic motivation. He also promoted their free pre-kindergarten program for 3-4 year olds to help the community prepare children for academic success and encouraged more families to sign up.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:19:50]: Pre-K Program Eligibility Requirements: Board Member Schreiner asked about income requirements for the pre-K program. Principal Goo explained that priority goes first to community applicants who qualify under at least one category (high poverty, special needs, English learners, or at-risk students), and if spots remain unfilled, they open enrollment to anyone outside the district regardless of qualifying categories.

3. COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS [0:21:00]

Volunteer Opportunities [0:21:00]: Board Member Elizabeth Reilly provided information on volunteer opportunities for the community at Keawāwa Wetlands (Thursdays 3:00 to 5:00 pm), Hāwea Heiau Complex (Thursdays 3:30 pm and Second Saturdays 8:30 am), and Kaiwi Mauka (Fridays 4:00 to 6:00 pm).

Hanauma Bay Closure [0:24:00]: Board Member Bishop announced that Hanauma Bay will be closed September 8-23 for parking lot restoration and repaving work during that two-week timeframe.

Kaiser High School “Homecoming Parade” [0:25:55]: Student Body President Ella Miller announced Kaiser High School’s Homecoming Parade on October 3, 5:00 to 6:00 pm, starting at Koko Head Regional Park, proceeding down Anapalau Street and turning onto Lunalilo Home Road to end at the Kaiser High School parking lot, featuring the band, ROTC, student council members, athletes, and the homecoming court.

Opposition to High-Rise Development [0:26:55]: Resident Mr. Tom Cooper from H.A.R.D.(Haha’ione Advocates for Respectful Development) reported that over 200 people attended their town hall meeting at Kaiser High School, co-sponsored by Honolulu City Council Chair Tommy Waters, opposing high-rise construction and commercial development at the previous JAIMS site. Mr. Cooper announced that their petition has grown to thousands of signatures toward their 10,000-signature goal, and thanked various officials and board members for their support.

4. ELECTION OF OFFICERS [32:30]

Election of Chair [0:33:10]:
• Acting Chair appointed Board Member Knudsen as Acting Chair and yielded to him [0:33: 20].
• Board Member Reilly nominated Board Member Mayor for Chair [0:33:40], seconded by Board Member Schreiner.
• Acting Chair Knudsen closed nominations after hearing no further nominations.
• There being no objections, Acting Chair Knudsen declared nomination of Board Member Mayor for Chair adopted, 9-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Altonn, Bishop, Donnelly, Knudsen, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Wolff, No: none, Abstain: none) [0:34:00].

Election of Vice Chair [0:34:10]:
• Acting Chair Knudsen vacated seat after interim service and Member Mayor resumed as Chair [0:34:10].
• Board Member Reilly nominated Board Member Knudsen for Vice Chair [0:34:30], seconded by Board Member Schreiner.
• Chair closed nominations after hearing no further nominations.
• There being no objections, Chair declared nomination of Board Member Knudsen for Vice Chair adopted, 9-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Altonn, Bishop, Donnelly, Knudsen, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Wolff, No: none, Abstain: none) [0:35:00].

Election of Secretary [0:35:20]:
• Board Member Mayor nominated Board Member Bishop for Secretary [0:35:20], seconded by Board Member Schreiner.
• Chair closed nominations after hearing no further nominations.
• There being no objections, Chair declared nomination of Board Member Bishop for Secretary adopted, 9-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Altonn, Bishop, Donnelly, Knudsen, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Wolff, No: none, Abstain: none) [0:35:40].

Election of Treasurer [0:36:05]:
• Board Member Mayor nominated Board Member Reilly for Treasurer [0:36:20], seconded by Board Member Schreiner.
• Chair closed nominations after hearing no further nominations.
• There being no objections, Chair declared nomination of Board Member Reilly for Treasurer adopted, 9-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Altonn, Bishop, Donnelly, Knudsen, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Wolff, No: none, Abstain: none) [0:36:40].

5. MEETING DETERMINATION AND RECESS SCHEDULE [0:37:20]

Date, Time, and Location of Regular Meeting [0:37:20]: Board Member Knudsen motioned to retain meeting details from previous term (Last Tuesday, 7:00 pm, and Hybrid at Hahaʻione Elementary School and on Webex) [0:37:40], seconded by Board Member Schreiner. Discussion followed. Chair called the question, and, there being no objections, declared the ayes have it and the motion is adopted, 9-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Altonn, Bishop, Donnelly, Knudsen, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Wolff, No: none, Abstain: none) [0:37:55].

Recess Schedule [0:38:15]: Board Member Schreiner motioned to recess in December [0:38:30], seconded by Board Member Bishop. Discussion followed. Chair called the question, and, there being no objections, declared the ayes have it and the motion is adopted, 9-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Altonn, Bishop, Donnelly, Knudsen, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Wolff, No: none, Abstain: none) [0:38:40].

Olelo Broadcasting of Meetings [0:39:00]: Board Member Bishop motioned to support Olelo Broadcasting of NB01 meetings [0:39:10], seconded by Board Member Allen. Discussion followed. Chair called the question, and, there being no objections, declared the ayes have it and the motion is adopted, 9-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Altonn, Bishop, Donnelly, Knudsen, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Wolff, No: none, Abstain: none) [0:39:25].

6. PUBLIC-GENERATED ISSUES [0:39:50]

Lack of Parking at Koko Head Regional Park [0:40:05]: Resident Mr. Kaleo Nakoa requested community support for baseball coaches and families who are receiving parking tickets due to insufficient parking, as the electronic gates now open earlier for hikers, filling the lot before the weekend games begin. Mr. Nakoa explained that coaches carry heavy equipment and supervise young children, making the distant lifeguard staging area parking impractical, and asked for grace from HPD until the City can develop a better parking solution.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:44:00]: Clarification on Season Schedule: Board Member Reilly asked for clarification on the start and end of the baseball season.

Commercial Vehicle Ordinance Rewrite Request [0:45:35]: Resident Mr. Julian Lipsher asked for community support in requesting the Honolulu City Council (CCL) to rewrite ordinances 15-16.6 (regarding storage and parking of commercial vehicles) and 15-13.8 (abandoned vehicles), thanked officials for their assistance, and emphasized that rewriting the ordinances is the only real solution.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:48:00]: Board Action on Commercial Vehicle Ordinances: Board Member Mayor confirmed that commercial vehicle parking is on the agenda under board business for potential action, suggesting the board could request ordinance rewrites and advocate for larger tow trucks capable of removing commercial vehicles.

7. VACANCIES [0:49:15]

Filling of Vacancies in Subdistricts 1, 3, 8, and 9 [0:49:15]: Chair invited members of the community to volunteer to fill the vacancies. Resident Ms. Johanna Ward provided a self-introduction and expressed interest in filling the vacancy for Subdistrict 3. Board Member Schreiner motioned to nominate Johanna Ward to fill the vacancy in Subdistrict 3 for the 2025-2027 term [0:54:20], seconded by Board Member Wolff. Chair closed nominations after hearing no further nominations. There being no objections, Chair declared the ayes have it and the motion is adopted, 9-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Altonn, Bishop, Donnelly, Knudsen, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Wolff, No: none, Abstain: none) [0:54:40]. Board Member Ward took her seat on the Board.

8. PRESENTATIONS [0:56:15]

Honolulu Emergency Services Department (HESD) [0:56:15]: Senior Planner Mike Buck for HESD “Crisis Outreach, Response, and Engagement” (C.O.R.E.) program presented an overview, indicating that the program aims to assist the community by providing medical services to the chronic homeless population. He noted that Hawaiʻi Kai is on the fringe of a tsunami of people moving into the neighborhood and not moving out, and on the cutting edge in comparison to other communities that C.O.R.E. serves.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:07:50]: Staffing Changes: Resident Ms. Carla Allison asked about staffing changes, noting that the program was designed to have EMTs and community health workers as responders. Mr. Buck confirmed staffing challenges with retaining community health workers. Shopping-Center Issues: Board Member Mayor reported earlier complaints from Hawaii Kai Town Center and Koko Marina Center about chronic homeless people harassing customers and vandalizing property, recommending that C.O.R.E. contact the shopping center managers to provide assistance which they would greatly appreciate. Mr. Buck acknowledged the challenge, noting security limitations, and agreed that working with the shopping centers would be helpful.

Establishment of Public Viewing Area (PVA) at Pahua Heiau [1:13:10]: Legacy Land Agent Laakea Rabes from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) announced plans to establish a public viewing area at Pahua Heiau on Makahuena Place. The project will install protective fencing to prevent unauthorized access that could damage the site, create a designated viewing area with educational signage about the heiau’s history and significance, and include native landscaping to control invasive species, with construction expected from mid-September to mid-October during weekday hours, 7:45 am to 4:30 pm.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:16:30]: Viewing-Hours Policy: Board Member Mayor asked if there will be limited viewing hours for the public viewing area. Mr. Rabes confirmed there are no plans to restrict viewing hours. Educational-Outreach Collaboration: Board Member Reilly expressed appreciation for the protective fencing project, noting she frequently calls police about unauthorized hikers and fireworks issues at the site, and asked about potential educational outreach collaboration between OHA and Maunalua.net since they steward nearby Kawainui Heiau and sometimes discuss Pahua during orientations. Mr. Rabes indicated they don’t know yet about future collaborative opportunities but seemed open to the possibility. Project Rationale: Board Member Wolff asked whether recent incidents motivated OHA’s protective measures or if this is part of a broader stewardship initiative. Mr. Rabes explained that this site’s registration in the State inventory of historic places requires a preservation plan with protective measures, including fencing and buffer areas.
Maintenance Commitment: Board Member Bishop asked whether this is a one-time project or if OHA has long-term maintenance plans. Rabes confirmed that the approved preservation plan includes perpetual measures for vegetative maintenance, feature rehabilitation/protection, and that OHA is committed to preserving historic and cultural sites long term.

Hawaii Bicycling League (HBL) “Walk, Bike, and Drive” [1:22:30]: Walk, Bike, and Drive Coordinator Paula Bender presented HBL’s program about vulnerable road user laws, which provide higher penalties for drivers who hit pedestrians, cyclists, and e-bike users regardless of fault. Coordinator Bender explained three e-bike classifications, noted HPD enforcement challenges, including no-pursuit policies, and emphasized that drivers need extra caution around vulnerable road users, while suggesting education requirements for young operators.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:30:50]: E-Bike Licensing: Board Member Mayor questioned whether 15-year-olds on e-bikes have permits for motorized vehicles on public roads. Coordinator Bender noted that some parents are buying e-bikes for children as young as 4th grade who aren’t old enough to operate them legally. Safety Concerns: Board Member Schreiner asked about laws regarding passengers on e-bikes, noting that, unlike mopeds with extended seats, e-bikes should not carry passengers on handlebars. Coordinator Bender agreed that e-bikes should follow bicycle seating rules.

Pesticides in Hawaii Presentation [1:34:20]: Office Manager Yvonne Yoro and Intern Ella Alexander from the Office of Representative Amy Perusso presented on pesticides in Hawaii, explaining that restricted use pesticides like 1,3-D and metam sodium pose significant health risks including cancer and respiratory impacts, with metam sodium able to drift up to a mile from application sites, making Act 45’s current 100-foot school buffer zone insufficient. Hawaiʻi Kai is not cited in 2019 as an affected area. For the 2026 legislative session, Representative Perusso’s office is proposing better reporting systems, increased buffer zones, and mandatory soil and water testing. Ms. Alexander suggested that the Neighborhood Boards can help by adopting resolutions, holding community meetings, testifying on pesticide issues, and supporting locally-owned farms that are transitioning to organic practices.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:44:15]: Neonicotinoid Legislation Plans: Board Member Bishop asked if Representative Perruso plans to introduce 2026 legislation adding neonicotinoids to the restricted use pesticide list, noting they were inappropriately removed from Act 45 for political reasons, and inquired about legislative support, including from Representative Gedeon. Office Manager Yoro responded that expanding the RUP list to include neonics is under consideration, with the office working with community advocates on exact language and using Vermont’s recently passed neonicotinoid bill as a model for potential Hawaii legislation. Legislative Support: Board Member Reilly suggested connecting with Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina’s new agricultural committee. Intern Alexander confirmed that pesticide reform remains a priority for 2026, and that their office will stay involved and maintain contact with the board. Glyphosate/Roundup Regulation: Board Member Wolff asked about legislative appetite for restricting glyphosate/Roundup sales. Intern Alexander acknowledged glyphosate as a significant community issue but noted it’s harder to regulate as a general-use pesticide compared to restricted-use pesticides, mentioning there was a bill last year regarding glyphosate use on state properties, and promised to clarify the details and follow up.

9. OFFICIALS’ REPORTS [1:51:05]

Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative [1:51:05]: Executive Director Amy Asselbaye at Office of Economic Revitalization (OER) introduced Director Laura Thielen from Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) to address a variety of concerns on behalf of CCH:

Hanauma Bay Education Program and Transportation Pilot: Director Thielen announced that bids for Hanauma Bay’s expanded education program are due September 19, with the program adding cultural and geological history to marine education, online resources, and an informational meeting scheduled for September 2, 10:00 am (bit.ly/hbaymeeting). Director Thielen also detailed a new transportation pilot starting November 1, with Roberts Tour (400 daily tickets) and VIP Trans (100 tickets) providing bus service to reduce traffic and free more parking spots for residents, while generating additional revenue for the bay through transportation fees and concession percentages without increasing visitor capacity limits.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:14:10]: Transportation Contractor Restrictions and Education Requirements: Board Member Bishop asked if the two transportation contractors can sell portions of their ticket allocations to subcontractors. Director Thielen indicated she would need to check the revocable permit, but believed transfer to others is not allowed in concession agreements. Board Member Bishop also asked about education requirements for transportation customers, and Director Thielen confirmed that all visitors brought by the transportation companies would still be required to go through Hanauma Bay’s standard education program.
Traffic Backup and Early Entry Concerns: Board Member Knudsen asked if traffic backup on Kalanianaole Highway will continue despite bus service since walk-in tickets remain available. Director Thielen explained that bus reservations made in advance will reduce pressure on the 48-hour lottery system by removing 500 tickets from daily inventory. Board Member Knudsen also asked why cars cannot proceed into the park driveway to avoid illegal highway queuing. Director Thielen said they will reassess after the bus contract takes effect, noting challenges with managing cars on the narrow road and preventing early water access due to early drop-offs by buses and taxis before staff arrive.
Bus Service Pilot Program Duration: Board Member Donnelly asked for clarification that the bus service is a pilot program. Director Thielen confirmed it is a one-year revocable permit rather than a long-term contract, explaining that new concessions sometimes start with revocable permits that either party can cancel under certain conditions.
Bus Service Education and Revenue Structure: Board Member Reilly asked if bus passengers will queue with other visitors for education or receive it on the bus. Director Thielen confirmed bus passengers would watch the same educational video on the bus rather than at the center, with companies able to provide supplemental materials. Board Member Reilly also asked if bus companies pay a premium beyond visitor revenue percentages. Director Thielen explained there is no base permit fee, only parking fees for vehicles, but the city receives a percentage of the companies’ packaged services, which are additional offerings not currently available at Hanauma Bay concessions, beyond the standard entry fees and existing concession revenues.
Bus Ticket Allocation and Expanded Vehicle Queuing: Board Member Altonn asked if the 500 bus tickets are part of or in addition to the total bay capacity. Director Thielen confirmed it is not an increase in the number of people entering Hanauma bay. Board Member Altonn also noted that the vehicle backup problem has expanded beyond cars on Kalanianaole Highway to now include tour vans and other vehicles waiting on the Sandy Beach side of the road.
Unauthorized Tour Operations and Bay Improvements: Board Member Schreiner asked about other businesses like one near Walgreens that appears to transport people to Hanauma Bay in vans, and what will happen to them under the new contract system. Director Thielen said this was the first she had heard of such operations and they do not have agreements with that company, so if they are operating it may not be legitimate, and she would need to investigate further. Board Member Schreiner also asked about improvements, and Director Thielen explained that $4 million in revenues have been identified for bay improvements, with $800,000 already allocated for parking lot reconstruction and additional funds designated for building roofs, doors, visitor center upgrades, and professional assessment of rock walls and walkways, with improvements being planned annually in coordination with Friends of Hanauma Bay.

Koko Crater Stables and Botanical Garden Improvements [2:12:40]: Director Thielen announced that the Department of Design and Construction (DDC) will begin redesigning the parking lot and stable entry to improve efficiency in the limited space, with the process involving community input, environmental review, and regulatory approval over several years. She explained the current stable entry reduces botanical garden parking, so they are considering a straight entry from the road to leave more parking for the increasingly popular garden. Director Thielen also detailed a $200,000 waterline replacement project that will run alongside the road instead of across the crater, serving both facilities with faster construction and easier future maintenance access, while noting that demolition of the condemned stable building requires operating funds rather than capital improvement bonds.

Kamiloiki Community Park Bathroom Locking [2:17:05]: Director Thielen explained that Kamiloiki Community Park bathrooms cannot be locked due to security vendor capacity limits, as private security companies handle park closures around 10:00 pm since city staff work 6:00 am to 2:30 pm shifts. She noted that security companies are also experiencing hiring difficulties, and the City is maxed out on the number of parks they can lock in this community. Director Thielen offered to provide the board with a list of currently locked parks in their area so they could discuss a one-for-one trade if they prefer different parks to be secured.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:18:30]: Bathroom Door Installation: Board Member Knudsen noted that the bathrooms currently have no doors and asked about the cost and delay for adding them since doors are needed for locking. Director Thielen explained that maintenance support services manufactures custom gates for older comfort stations that were not originally designed to be locked, and they would need to assess the site to determine if it is lockable before manufacturing appropriate gates. Park Surveillance and Bathroom Design Solutions: Board Member Wolff asked about installing surveillance cameras to prevent park vandalism. Director Thielen explained that while cameras help identify perpetrators after incidents occur (like playground fires), they do not prevent vandalism, noting that Ala Moana Beach Park has over 40 cameras but still experiences problems. She mentioned community watch programs and park closure enforcement as deterrents, and described new bathroom designs being tested that eliminate indoor sink areas where congregation occurs, placing sinks outside with individual toilet stalls opening directly outdoors to reduce hiding spaces for problematic behavior.

Sandy Beach Parking Lot Paving [2:23:00]: Director Thielen addressed a question about paving the gravel parking area at Sandy Beach, explaining that she does not recommend it due to limited capital improvement funds and significant challenges including archaeological inventory surveys near historic sites, environmental regulatory review, non-point source discharge issues requiring on-site drainage management, and potential impacts on cultural practitioners. She noted that the Sandy Beach gravel area sits above the existing parking lot grade, so leveling would likely increase rather than reduce complaints about gravel rolling onto the paved lot, concluding that bond funds should be reserved for more essential repairs and improvements.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:25:10]: Makapuʻu Parking Area Access: Board Member Knudsen noted that the large parking areas near the Alan Davis Wall and the new boulder-cordoned parking area are almost inaccessible without four-wheel drive vehicles, stating he spent time at Makapuʻu today but could not park because normal cars cannot access the lot, suggesting that grading work is needed there to make it usable for regular vehicles.

Koko Crater Stables Concern: Board Member Schreiner thanked Director Thielen for resolving the bus stop trash can issue at Kalanianaole Highway and praised improvements in park tree maintenance under new urban forestry and parks administrators. He expressed concern about being labeled a “friend of Koko Crater Stables” by an administrator, which he felt came across negatively, though Director Thielen clarified the term should not be considered an insult. Board Member Schreiner emphasized his desire to see the stables fixed and operational, noting he learned to ride there as a child and is impressed with current progress but wants to see the actual facility improvements addressed, so the stables can again become an asset for the entire community.
Native Tree Planting at Parks: Board Member Wolff praised the native tree plantings at Wailupe Park but expressed concern that ten of twelve new trees at Kamiloiki Park are non-native Buttonwoods from South Africa, which provide poor shade, while only one native Milo tree was planted despite the park being named after the Milo trees that historically grew in the area. Director Thielen explained that Urban Forestry prioritizes native trees but also considers survival rates and biodiversity to prevent vulnerability to invasive species, noting that investing too heavily in a single tree type could leave areas denuded if that species becomes compromised.
Parking at Koko Head District Park: Board Member Mayor requested follow-up on parking options for youth baseball teams using Koko Head District Park, noting it was raised under public generated issues and asking for mitigation options at the next meeting. Board Member Mayor also asked about a formal agreement between the Koconut Koalition and the City for Koko Crater Trail maintenance. Director Thielen confirmed there are two formal agreements – the first completed work begun under the Caldwell administration to replace the railroad ties, and the second provides ongoing maintenance with the city partnering on supplies and materials. Regarding Koko Head District Park, Director Thielen explained there is no on-site parking to reserve for groups, but they will explore drop-off options, noting that allowing parking on the grass would kill it and create erosion, and any additional parking would require a long-term capital improvement project.

HCC Chair Tommy Waters [2:32:00]: No representative present.

Governor Josh Green’s Representative [2:32:15]: Energy Analyst Cameron Black at Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) reported from the Office of the Governor on the State Emergency Management Agency’s prioritization of the Koko Head/Portlock emergency siren repair based on community input. Work should be completed within 14 days rather than the previously estimated 30-60 days. He confirmed that all emergency sirens use one steady tone for all emergencies, the same tone heard during monthly tests. Analyst Black also announced the passage of the Green Fee, Hawaii’s first climate impact fee that increases transient accommodations tax, including for cruise ships, expected to generate $100 million annually for environmental stewardship, hazard mitigation, infrastructure resilience, and visitor experience enhancement, with Governor Green creating a new advisory council to guide expenditures.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:35:35]: Green Fee Advisory Council Questions: Board Member Reilly asked whether the new Green Fee advisory council members are paid or volunteers and if their meetings will be public. Analyst Black indicated he did not know the answers to those questions and would need to follow up, with the information to be provided through NB01 Chair.

Senator Stanley Chang [2:35:40]: Mr. Casey Shoji from the Office of Senator Chang encouraged the community to sign up for their monthly newsletter and weekly housing letter.

Senator Chris Lee [2:37:40]: No representative present.

Representative Joe Gedeon [2:37:40]: Representative Joe Gedeon reported his community survey identified cost of living, Hawaiʻi Kai development, homelessness, and homeowners’ insurance as top concerns, with aging infrastructure ranking first when combined responses are considered. He confirmed the 14-day Koko Head/Portlock siren repair timeline and reported ongoing Hawaiian Electric underground line work with planned resident notifications. Gedeon announced Maunalua Bay boat ramp improvements began July 28, with $6.8 million funding that will last through April 2026, and noted an active survey about desired businesses for vacant Koko Marina and Hawaiʻi Kai Shopping Center spaces to share with stakeholders.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:43:45]: Timeline of Siren Repair: Board Member Altonn asked for clarification on the timeline of the siren repair. Representative Gedeon confirmed that repairs will be completed within 14 days from today’s date, August 26.

Representative Mark Hashem [2:44:25]: No representative present.

Congressional Representatives [2:44:30]: No representative present.

10. BOARD BUSINESS [2:44:45]

Update on Ka’iwi Coast Scenic Byway [2:24:50]: This was discussed during the Mayor’s representative’s report on Hanauma Bay and the Sandy Beach parking lot.

Update on Kamilo Nui Valley Agriculture [2:25:45]: No new updates provided. Chair Mayor noted the August 22, 2025 Civil Beat article by Taylor Nahulukeaokalani Cozloff that provided extensive historical background on the agricultural farm leases.

Consider Action on Commercial Vehicles Obstructing Traffic [2:45:20]: Board Member Reilly motioned to request Board Member Mayor draft a statement of NB01’s position on this item of concern [2:45:25], seconded by Board Member Wolff. Chair closed discussion after hearing no further comments, conducted a voice vote, and, there being no objections, declared that the ayes have it and that the motion is approved, 11-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Altonn, Bishop, Donnelly, Knudsen, Lee, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Ward, Wolff, No: none, Abstain: none) [2:45:45].

The Chair will draft a statement for the Board urging that appropriate City ordinances on this issue be reviewed/revised and that the City’s towing contract be reviewed/revised to include the towing of oversized vehicles.

Consider Action on KCP Restroom Closure Hours 10 pm to 5 am [2:46:15]: Board Member Reilly motioned to postpone this item definitely to next regular meeting [2:46:20], seconded by Board Member Wolff. Chair closed discussion after hearing no further comments, conducted a voice vote, and, there being no objections, declared that the ayes have it and that the motion is approved, 11-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Altonn, Bishop, Donnelly, Knudsen, Lee, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Ward, Wolff, No: none, Abstain: none) [2:46:45].

The Chair will request of Laura Thielen, Director of Parks and Recreation, the list of City and County parks in the area that are currently closed overnight. The Board may consider a one-for-one trade if Kamiloiki Community Park is deemed in greater need of overnight security than another park.

11. BOARD COMMITTEES [2:47:00] No reports given.

12. APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING MINUTES [2:47:20] Hearing no objections, Chair declared June 24, 2025 regular meeting minutes approved as distributed.

13. OTHER BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS [2:48:00] No announcements shared.

14. CLOSING ANNOUNCEMENTS [2:48:00]

Meeting [2:52:50]: The next regular meeting of the Hawaii Kai Neighborhood Board is Tuesday, September 30, 2025, 7:00 p.m., at Hahaʻione Elementary School Cafeteria and on WebEx.
Olelo [2:52:50]: The Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board’s 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”).

15. ADJOURNMENT [2:49:15] Chair Mayor adjourned the meeting at 9:52 pm.

Respectfully Submitted: Brandon Tsark, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed By: Dylan Whitsell, Deputy, NCO
Reviewed By: Lisa Bishop, Board Secretary
Reviewed and Finalized By: Roberta Mayor, 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.