MĀNOA NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 7

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2025 at 6:30 P.M.
NOELANI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CAFETERIA
2655 WOODLAWN DR, HONOLULU, HI 96822
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=m0703b535a40c894de5b9cd9e2a50ae05
Meeting Number/ Access Code: 2483 095 1817
Password: NB07 (6207 from phones and video systems)
Join by Phone: 1-408-418-9388

Meeting Materials: Find a monthly archive of handouts and referenced materials relating to the Mānoa Neighborhood Board No. 7 at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1NO7LXTCebl7VkAMZ8–ocGHcb14-omUL

Recordings of Board Meetings can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice

Rules of Speaking: Address the chair, be recognized before proceeding, and confine remarks to the subject under discussion. Speakers are asked to keep their comments under one (1) minute. Please listen for the direction of the timekeeper and mute yourself if not recognized by the chair to speak.

Written Testimony: All written testimony must be received in the Neighborhood Commission Office 48 hours prior to the meeting. If within 48 hours, 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, 530 South King Street, Room 406, Honolulu, HI 96813. Fax: (808) 768-3711. Email: nbtestimony@honolulu.gov

Note: The Board may act on any agenda item. As required by the State Sunshine Law (HRS 92), specific issues not noted on this agenda cannot be voted on, unless added to the agenda. A two-thirds vote of 12 of this 17-member Board is needed to add an item to the agenda. Items may not be added if they are of major importance and will affect a significant number of people.

I. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Dave Nagaji

II. FIRST RESPONDER MONTHLY REPORTS
a. Honolulu Fire Department (HFD)
b. Honolulu Police Department (HPD)

III. BOARD BUSINESS
a. Filling of Vacancies: Sub District 3 (One Vacancy); Sub District 4 (Three Vacancies) – Residents interested in filling a vacant board seat must bring current proof of residency to the board meeting or contact Neighborhood Assistant Anson Wu [anson.wu@honolulu.gov] to verify residency in advance.
b. Resolution: Requesting the City’s Department of Transportation Services to Install Two Additional Stop Signs at the Intersection of Mānoa Road and Oahu Avenue/Pawaina Street (Voting Expected)
c. Resolution: Resolution supporting legislation to repeal the authority of the counties to establish and charge user fees to create and maintain stormwater management system or infrastructure.
d. Letter: Requesting Signs that Specify a 5-Way Stop at the Intersection of Oahu Avenue, Mānoa Road, and Lowrey Avenue (Voting Expected)
e. Resolution: Asking the Neighborhood Commission to Allow Current Mānoa Neighborhood Board Vacancies to be Filled on an At-Large Basis (Voting Expected)
f. Discussion: Permanent Changes to the Mānoa Neighborhood Board (MNB) #7 Board Configuration (Not Voting; Discussion Only). Our board can request that the Neighborhood Commission permanently change the configuration of our board’s seats. This could be the topic of a resolution at a future meeting, if board members are interested.
i. Some or all of our board seats could be converted into at-large seats.
ii. We also have the option of dealing with chronic vacancies by reducing our total number of seats (currently 17), provided that the total number of seats must remain an odd number.
g. Dog Parks (Voting Expected): At previous meetings, our board discussed the topic of dog parks. However, no vote was taken. Since then, the City has clarified that Department Parks & Recreation wants the idea to receive an endorsement by way of a formal vote.
i. Board members may make motions to endorse on-leash dogs parks, off-leash dog parks, or both.
ii. If such a motion is made, then the board member making the motion may specify additional details (size, location, etc.).
iii. If no dog park endorsement is passed by affirmative vote = Our board declines to endorse the idea.
h. Approval of the Wednesday, October 1, 2025 Meeting Minutes

IV. RETURNING BUSINESS
a. Updates on Mānoa Banyan Court & Aria Lane
b. Updates on Ala Wai Flood Mitigation
c. Updates on University Lab School and Proposed “CampusTown” Project
i. Lori Lum will share the results of the project’s online survey.

V. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS
a. Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Dominic Dias
b. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Office
c. City Councilmember Scott Nishimoto

VI. STATE MONTHLY REPORTS
a. Senator Carol Fukunaga
b. Representative Andrew Takuya Garrett
c. University of Hawaii at Mānoa Updates – Elmer Kaai
d. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – Laci Goshi

VII. COMMUNITY CONCERNS
a. Other Concerns Not Otherwise Listed

VIII. ANNOUNCEMENTS
a. Next Meeting: Next regular board meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. It will be held in person at Noelani Elementary School Cafeteria, as well as online via WebEx, starting at 6:30pm.
b. NCO and Toys for Tots – Toy Drive: Your Neighborhood Assistant will be collecting donated toys for children at tonight’s meeting on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.
c. Agenda Items for the Next Meeting:
i. No new items are currently planned for the next meeting agenda. Board Members and other interested individuals may contact the Chair in order to request that a new item be added to the agenda. Due to mandatory deadlines, please make any such agenda requests more than a week in advance of the next meeting.
ii. Multiple Board Members have indicated that they will be absent from the December meeting. Because of this, the Chair currently intends to have a light agenda in December.
d. Olelo Re-Broadcast: Watch on second and fourth Saturdays of the month at 3:00 p.m.,or every third Tuesday at 9:00 p.m, or online: https://olelo.org/tv-schedule/ or https://www.honolulu.gov/cms-ncomenu/site-nco-sitearticles/1657-board-meeting-videoarchive.html.

IX. 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, Hawaiʻi 96817; Telephone (808) 768-3710 Fax (808) 768-3711; or call Neighborhood Assistant Anson Wu at (808) 768- 3706 or e-mail anson.wu@honolulu.gov. Agendas and minutes are also available on the internet at www.honolulu.gov/nco.

All written testimony must be received in the Neighborhood Commission Office 48 hours prior to the meeting. If within 48 hours, 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, Hawaiʻi 96817. Fax: (808) 768-3711. Email: nbtestimony@honolulu.gov.

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.

NAME SUB DISTRICT CONTACT
Ellen Watson 1 pehi@hawaii.rr.com
Robert Zane 1 zanero9141@gmail.com
Whitney Bosel 1 wboselmnb@gmail.com
Elton Fukumoto 2 etfukumoto@gmail.com
Dave Nagaji (Chair) 2 davenagaji@gmail.com
Dave Fields 2
Christopher R. Moylan (Vice Chair) 3 drcmoylan@gmail.com
Diane Chong (Treasurer) 3 dchonghawaii@gmail.com
Joan Koff (Secretary) 3 joankoff@yahoo.com
VACANT 3
Philmund “Phil” Lee 3 philmund@gmail.com
Robert Fox 4 rfoxent@gmail.com
Patty Kawano 4 lowermanoa@gmail.com
Joseph Mishreki 4 joseph.mishreki@gmail.com
VACANT 4
VACANT 4
VACANT 4

MAP: For a map of the Mānoa Neighborhood Board Sub District Boundaries go to: https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/wp-content/uploads/sites/53/2023/09/07_Manoa.jpg

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2025 at 6:30 P.M.
NOELANI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CAFETERIA – 2655 WOODLAWN DR, HONOLULU, HI 96822 AND VIA WEBEX

Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDk2pazutpQ&

Meeting materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1NO7LXTCebl7VkAMZ8–ocGHcb14-omUL

I. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:01]: Chair Dave Nagaji called the Mānoa Neighborhood Board No. 7 regular meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.

Quorum was established with 9 board members present. Note – This 17-member Board requires nine (9) members to establish a quorum and take official board action.

Board Members Present: Ellen Watson, Dave Nagaji, Elton Fukumoto, Dave Fields, Phil Lee, Diane Chong, Christopher Moylan, Patti Kawano, Robert Fox, and Joseph Mishreki (6:57 p.m.).

Board Members Absent: Robert Zane, Whitney Bosel, Joan Koff, and Timothy Palms.

Guests: Fire Captain Nakajima (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Taro Nakamura (Honolulu Police Department); Olivia Eagle and Asa (Climate Future Forum); Tom Heinrich, Wes Oda, and Hector H. Venegas (Be Ready Mānoa); Dominic Dias (Board of Water Supply); Deputy Director Gavin Thornton (Mayor’s Representative); Heath Williams (Councilmember Scott Nishimoto); Senator Carol Fukunaga; Representative Andrew Takuya Garrett; Laci Goshi (Governor’s Representative); Elmer Kaʻai (University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa); Helen Nakano, Ruth D. Crockett, Brett Kurashige, Glenn Otaguro, Vanessa Distajo, Tara Miyamoto, Pat Ching, Sandy Tsukiyama, Ellen Sofio, Fujita, Angie Knight, Beverly Smith, Johnnie-Mae L. Perry, Dean, Terri Yoshinaga, John Caraang, Abby, Phil Lee, Lori, Betty, Dean, Ian Ross, Stanton, Paul M., and Dylan P. Armstrong (Residents); and and Anson Wu (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name not included if not legible or stated for the record. There were 54 total participants.

II. FIRST RESPONDER MONTHLY REPORTS – [0:01:11]

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – [0:01:29]: Fire Captain Nakajima provided the report and highlighted the following:
• September 2025 Statistics: There were 6 activated alarms with no fires, 59 medical emergencies, and 2 motor vehicle collisions.
• October 2025 Safety Tip: With the holiday season approaching, consider fire-resistant, non-combustible decorations. Choose only Underwriter Laboratory approved electrical decorations and follow manufacturers’ instructions for installation and load. Use lights that are in good repair. Always turn off lights before leaving your house or going to sleep. Do not overload power strips, surge protectors, and extension cords. Never leave candles unattended. Secure lighters and matches out of the reach of children.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/19wdV5EbHqrDvsGoxxBq5hjPc0yxUEIYS/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:02:46]
1. Medical Response Efficiency: Member Fox asked about the necessity of sending fire trucks to medical emergencies, suggesting it would be more cost-effective to send smaller vehicles. Captain Edwards explained that EMTs/EMS don’t have as many units as fire stations, and firefighters often serve as first responders who can arrive several minutes earlier, potentially making a life-saving difference. He noted that the department has purchased smaller SUVs called “REVs” for this purpose at some stations. Member Fox provided the context to his concern. Captain Nakajima will bring members Fox suggestion back to his office
2. Ambulance Station Locations: Member Watson suggested revisiting a pilot program to station ambulances at fire stations rather than having them clustered around hospitals. She noted that Mānoa has ample room for an ambulance, which could respond directly to emergencies. Captain Edwards mentioned that consolidating EMS with fire services has been considered multiple times but faces various obstacles.
3. Response Time Priority: Member Chong expressed support for having firefighters respond first to medical emergencies in Mānoa since they are located in the valley and can arrive in 1-2 minutes compared to ambulances coming from outside the area, which might take 5-10 minutes.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – [0:09:21]: Lieutenant Taro Nakamura provided the report and highlighted the following:
• September 2025 Statistics: 7 motor vehicle thefts, 3 burglaries, 18 thefts, 5 unauthorized entries into motor vehicles, and 5,864 total calls for service.
• Safety Tip: Jaywalking reminder – HPD has noted many accidents this year and emphasized that both drivers and pedestrians share responsibility for safety. Nothing is worth getting injured or killed over, and it takes a combined effort from the community to reduce pedestrian fatalities.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [0:10:55]
1. Vehicle Theft Trends: Member Chong asked about a reported car theft in Mānoa. Lieutenant Nakamura explained that motor vehicle thefts fluctuate depending on who is out of jail, but noted an increase in thefts of Kia Soul vehicles specifically. Other statistics remain relatively constant.
2. Federal Immigration Enforcement: Member Fox expressed concerns about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Honolulu and asked if there had been a directive from the mayor regarding how HPD will interact with ICE, particularly concerning face-covered agents and arrests without warrants, which he described as illegal. He wanted to know HPD’s position on enforcing constitutional protections in Hawaiʻi. Lieutenant Nakamura explained that such matters are beyond his control as a patrol officer in District 7, and that HPD tries to remain non-political. He clarified that HPD officers protect citizens and enforce city and state laws, but generally don’t enforce federal laws unless they’re part of a special task force. Member Fukumoto commented that as laws change, the Corporation Counsel or Prosecutor’s Office should provide direction to officers.
3. Jurisdictional Clarification: Member Chong emphasized that ICE is federal while police are city and county, representing different jurisdictional entities.

III. PRESENTATION – [0:17:01]

Pesticide Use in Hawaiʻi – Climate Future Forum – [0:17:29]: Olivia Eagle and Asa from the Climate Future Forum presented on pesticides in Hawaiʻi, explaining that Hawaiʻi categorizes them as general use (like Roundup) or restricted use pesticides (RUPs), with RUPs requiring state certification due to significant environmental and health impacts. They highlighted that in 2019, over 175,000 pounds of 1,3-D (a carcinogenic groundwater contaminant) and 30,000 pounds of metam sodium (which can drift up to a mile) were used, primarily in North and Central Oahu. The presenters noted that Act 45’s 100-foot school buffer zone is inadequate and recommended better reporting systems, increased buffer zones, larger fines for illegal use, and mandated environmental testing.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15-U3pRNpykvMCRE-M1TJyJvHXuSmMN-r/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [0:27:13]

Mishreki arrived to the meeting at (6:57 p.m.); 10 members present.

1. Pesticide Exposure Routes: Member Fukumoto asked how pesticides enter the body. Asa explained that it depends on the pesticide type. The 1,3-D pesticide used in Central Oʻahu is prone to drift and can be inhaled. Other pesticides affect people through water systems and runoff, which also impacts native wildlife, marine life, and ecosystems. Some pesticides are consumed through food, highlighting the importance of eating organic.
2. Rewilding Process: Resident Tsukiyama asked about the process for rewilding school areas. The presenters explained that Rewild Your Campus is an organization that works with school administrative divisions and maintenance departments to discuss alternatives to pesticides like Roundup, focusing on methods to keep campuses green and healthy without affecting children and the community.
3. Regulatory Oversight: Member Watson asked about state regulatory agencies for pesticides and fumigation for termites. Eagle explained that pesticides are regulated by the Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture (HDOA) and informed that Senator Gabbard plans to introduce legislation to classify certain general use pesticides, specifically glyphosate, as restricted use pesticides. Regarding termite fumigation, Asa noted that most fumigant companies are private with less regulation and suggested in contacting HDOA pesticide branch.
4. Alternative Termite Treatments: Member Fox shared that heat treatment for termites is becoming more popular in Hawaiʻi. He noted that vikane (used in termite treatment) is regulated through occupational safety standards that require proper containment to prevent neighborhood exposure.

IV. RETURNING BUSINESS – [0:35:01]

Updates on Mānoa Banyan Court & Aria Lane – [0:35:05]: Chair Nagaji reported no updates on Mānoa Banyan Court or Aria Lane.

Updates on Ala Wai Flood Mitigation – [0:35:30]: Member Fukumoto reported no updates.

Updates on the Primary Urban Center Development Plan – [0:35:39]: Member Watson questioned the city’s commitment to the Primary Urban Center Development Plan (PUCDP), noting that it was developed through extensive community input but appears to be disregarded in planning decisions. She asked about the cost of developing the plan and why it’s being ignored. Heath Williams from Councilmember Nishimoto’s office explained that he would research the cost of consultant services for the plan. He described the PUCDP as maximum threshold for development in an area, functioning as an advisory roadmap rather than law.

Updates on University Lab School and Proposed “CampusTown” Project – [0:38:53]: Chair Nagaji reported that Lori Lum from PBR Hawaiʻi informed him that results from the project survey aren’t ready yet but will be provided to the board at the next meeting.

V. BOARD BUSINESS – [0:39:25]

Filling of Vacancies – [0:39:28]: Chair Nagaji announced four total vacancies: one in Subdistrict 3 and three in Subdistrict 4. No volunteers.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:39:57]
1. Vacancies Concerns: Member Moylan noted that the current distribution of seats (with Subdistrict 4 having six seats) doesn’t match community interest levels. He expressed frustration that vacancies count against quorum and as no votes on motions, making it difficult for the board to function effectively.
2. Board Member Reduction: Member Fox suggested reducing the board size, noting recruitment challenges in Subdistrict 4. Member Moylan will follow-up with City Council on how to reduce the neighborhood board. Chair Nagaji observed that Subdistricts 1 and 2 are typically full while Subdistrict 4 consistently struggles with vacancies. He mentioned that other neighborhood boards use an at-large district system rather than subdivided districts. He will put this subject on the next agenda.
3. Mixed Board: Member Watson suggested a mixed approach with Subdistricts 1-3 remaining as is, while making Subdistrict 4 seats at-large to ensure adequate representation while preventing domination by one area. Resident Heinrich noted this was not an agenda item and recommended adding it for the next meeting. He explained that the neighborhood plan outlines the process for changing board structure, which is determined by the community through the neighborhood board, not the mayor or Neighborhood Commission. Resident Ross shared that the Makiki Neighborhood Board temporarily lowered their number of seats and made them all at-large to address similar issues, though he noted this wasn’t unanimously supported. Chair Nagaji agreed to place this topic on the next meeting’s agenda for thorough discussion and a possible vote.

Formation of Permitted Interaction Groups (P.I.G.s) – [0:48:30]: Member Watson proposed forming several Permitted Interaction Groups (PIGs) to investigate: 1) The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance of handicap parking stalls at Mānoa Marketplace; 2) City LED streetlights and their photovoltaic sensors not being utilized due to contract issues with Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO); 3) Width of parking stalls and driving lanes at Mānoa Marketplace after reconfiguration; and 4) Process for establishing a four-way stop at Mānoa Road and Pawaina Road.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:55:26]
1. PIG Opposition: Resident Heinrich strongly recommended against establishing these PIGs, suggesting that such concerns should be addressed in open regular meetings or through established committees. He noted that several proposals involved a privately owned shopping center, which could be problematic given the board’s past litigation experience regarding alleged interference with private commercial enterprises. He emphasized that concerns should be communicated through appropriate channels.
2. Other Considerations: Chair Nagaji noted that Member Moylan already chairs a committee that could address these issues. Member Moylan questions the rational of the formation of the permitted interaction groups as some of the proposed pigs can be answered through the channels. Member Watson explained she preferred PIGs because she has found regular channels unresponsive and has health concerns that prevent her from attending in-person committee meetings.
3. PIG Concerns: Member Fox expressed that addressing private property matters like Mānoa Marketplace parking was inappropriate for the board, noting that Alexander & Baldwin had their parking plan approved by the Department of Planning and Permitting.
4. Committee Suggestion: Member Fukumoto asked if member Moylan can add item regarding the establishing a four-way stop at Mānoa Road and Pawaina Road to his committee meeting. Hearing no motions, Chair Nagaji continued the meeting.

Determination of Recess Schedule – [1:03:47]: Chair Nagaji asked if any board member wanted to make a motion for a second recess schedule for the Mānoa Neighborhood Board.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:04:07]
1. Singular Reccess: Member Watson suggested removing this as a recurring agenda item, noting that the board had already decided to recess only in July 2026. She emphasized that there are many issues facing Mānoa that require the board’s attention.
2. Three-absent Concern: Member Fox expressed concern about the rule regarding removal after missing three meetings, given the uncertainty about recess months and asked if they can alter the rule. Chair Nagaji clarified that if a member misses three meetings, the board must discuss removal but rarely actually removes members. Member Fukumoto provided information regarding three absences. Chair Nagaji will removed the item from the agenda for now but can be brought up again if needed.

Approval of the Wednesday, September 3, 2025 Meeting Minutes – [1:07:30]: Member Moylan identified two typos: 1) On page 3, at 49:58, “ADOTED” should be “ADOPTED”; and 2) On page 5, first paragraph, “to stike phrase” should be “to strike the phrase.”
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:08:48]
1. Copies of the Agenda and Minutes: Resident Sofio asked for more copies of the agenda and minutes.

[1:09:34] – Moylan MOVED and Fox SECONDED to approve the Wednesday, September 3, 2025 meeting minutes with amendments. Hearing no objections, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 10-0-0 (AYE: Watson, Nagaji, Fukumoto, Fields, Lee, Chong, Moylan, Kawano, Fox, and Mishreki; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [1:09:50]

Updates from Be Ready Mānoa – [1:09:57]: Resident Heinrich, speaking as a member of Be Ready Mānoa, acknowledges Wes Oda President and Hector Venegas Marketing and Communications of Be Ready Mānoa and provided updates on the organization’s activities. Be Ready Mānoa is in its 12th year of operation starting in 2013 and is now classified as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. It promotes situational awareness and planning for potential natural disasters and organizes disaster preparedness meetings, training classes, and fairs. In August 2017, Mānoa was designated as the first resilient urban community by the City and County of Honolulu. Heinrich explained that American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) has donated walkie-talkies using the Family Radio Service (FRS) spectrum. Be Ready Mānoa will provide these radios to residents who attend a training class and participate in monthly practice sessions. Currently, about 40 participants are involved in the program. The next training session is Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the Mānoa Innovation Center. Interested residents can register at manoaCoconutWireless@gmail.com. He reported that Be Ready Mānoa held a well-attended round-robin class with six different topics at Mānoa Valley Church. On Saturday, September 20, 2025 they held a disaster preparedness fair at the Mānoa Marketplace Courtyard with over 20 participating organizations representing various first responders and agencies. Alexander & Baldwin, City Mill, Bank of Hawaiʻi, and Mānoa Valley Church sponsored the event. Heinrich encouraged residents to sign up for customized alerts at hnlalert.gov and mentioned that the Hawaiʻi Sea Grant program offers a downloadable Homeowner’s Handbook to Prepare for Natural Hazards (4th edition).

Discussion on Invasive Species Council – [1:16:23]: This item was postponed as Member Watson was temporarily unavailable.

VI. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS – [1:16:50]

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [1:16:57]: Dominic Dias reported that several main breaks occurred along Mohala Way last month, partly due to active water line replacement construction in the area. All pipes in that area will be replaced with new water lines. He announced that BWS is asking residents to reduce water consumption by 20%. While there is currently enough water, Oahu is experiencing lower than normal rainfall, and water consumption has been rising. Tips for water conservation can be found at www.boardofwatersupply.com.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [1:18:36]
1. Transmission Main Project: Resident Heinrich asked about the status of a 24-inch water main project that would cross from Liliha to Waʻahila. Dias clarified it’s actually a 42-inch transmission main from Liliha to Isenberg. The route has changed over time and now follows Beretania and King Street to Isenberg. An Archaeological Inventory Survey (AIS) is scheduled for fiscal year 2027, with design work starting in fiscal year 2026 across several phases. Construction will follow the completion of all design segments.
2. Red Hill Briefing: Resident Heinrich announced that an informational briefing on the Red Hill closure program would be held Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., featuring the State Department of Health and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The briefing will be livestreamed on the Hawaiʻi House of Representatives YouTube channel.

Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Office – [1:22:32]: Deputy Director Gavin Thornton reported on the feasibility of installing a roundabout at the five-corners intersection, in response to Vice Chair Moylan’s previous inquiry. The Department of Transportation Services completed an investigation and determined that due to space constraints and acute angles at the intersection of Mānoa Road, ʻŌhua Avenue, and Lowrey Avenue, potential roundabout designs would not provide adequate room for buses, emergency vehicles, and other large vehicles to navigate safely. Major reconstruction would be required, including relocating utility structures and sidewalks, installing ADA-compliant curb ramps, and making other modifications that would significantly disrupt traffic. Additionally, a review of traffic collision history over the past five years did not reveal conditions warranting additional traffic controls.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15-U3pRNpykvMCRE-M1TJyJvHXuSmMN-r/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [1:24:12]
1. Traffic Circle Clarification: Member Moylan thanked Thornton for following up, as he had been unable to get a direct response from the department. He noted that the response contained two different issues: impossibility versus inconvenience. He expressed interest in further clarifying whether a traffic circle is truly impossible or just difficult to implement. Thornton offered to facilitate a conversation with the department.
2. Traffic Flow Improvement: Member Moylan explained that the traffic circle proposal wasn’t driven by safety concerns but by traffic flow issues. He suggested that unlike most traffic circles that slow traffic, this one might actually improve flow by eliminating the confusion that occurs when vehicles at all five stops try to determine who should proceed next.
3. Signage and Stop Sign Requests: Member Watson asked about restoring “Five-Way Stop” signage at the intersection instead of the generic “Always Stop” signs currently in place. She noted that the specific signage helped drivers understand the unusual intersection configuration. She also inquired about the process for establishing a four-way stop at Mānoa Road and Pawaina Road. Thornton offered to look into both requests.
4. Sidewalk Needs: Member Chong emphasized the need for sidewalks on Lowrey Avenue, noting that students from Noelani Elementary walk on the street rather than on muddy grass areas. She described seeing a person in a motorized wheelchair walking their dog in the street because the grass was too muddy and uneven. She highlighted that Lowrey Avenue is the only street that crosses the entire valley, but lacks sidewalks.
5. Bus Fare Concerns: A resident expressed concern about the city’s 12% increase in bus fares, suggesting it disproportionately impacts working people. He recommended increasing ridership by improving service and targeting visitors who would purchase day passes, which would be more fair to residents who depend on the bus system.

City Councilmember Scott Nishimoto – [1:32:05]: Heath Williams from Councilmember Scott Nishimoto office reported that a Council meeting was held that morning in Kapolei Hale. He encouraged board members to review Bill 34 regarding residential property taxes.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:32:33]
1. Punahou Square Park: Resident Sandy Tsukiyama asked about fencing at Punahou Square Park at the corner of Wilder and Punahou. Williams confirmed it will be an off-leash dog park. Tsukiyama asked if it will be divided for large and small dogs. Williams offered to provide more details about whether it will be divided for large and small dogs.
2. Sidewalk Funding: Member Chong asked for a sidewalk on Lowrey Avenue. Member Watson agreed with the need for sidewalks on Lowrey Avenue but noted that homeowners don’t want to pay for them. She asked what resources might be available through the city or state to fund sidewalks in the public interest without burdening homeowners.

VII. STATE MONTHLY REPORTS – [1:35:12]

Senator Carol Fukunaga (Senate District 13) – [1:35:19]: Senator Fukunaga reported on a productive meeting with area legislators and the Neighborhood Security Watch program. The meeting identified community safety concerns around Mānoa District Park, where volunteers have been working to cut back vegetation overgrowth that could harbor homeless encampments. Attendees completed surveys about crime statistics, which have been shared with HPD District 7. The Senator expressed hope for pursuing additional projects in the near future.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gslWRbRr68g0JZWC2Pz-XhemdlDBw5PV/view?usp=drive_link

Representative Andrew Takuya Garrett (House District 27) – [1:36:57]: Representative Andrew Takuya Garrett thanked Senator Fukunaga for organizing the meeting with the Neighborhood Security Watch program at Mānoa Cafeteria. He reported on a recent albizia sweep along Mānoa Stream banks with partners from the Koʻolau Mountains Watershed Partnership (KMWP) and Mālama Mānoa. He noted that seedling numbers were lower this year, indicating that annual sweeps are making a difference. In the 2024 legislative session, they secured a $95,000 grant for KMWP to remove hazardous albizia trees in the stream that are beyond adjacent landowners’ expertise to remove. Representative Garrett also mentioned partnering with University Lab School students to clean up graffiti at the former Tsukuneya Japanese Restaurant at the entrance to Mānoa. He mentioned that the owner indicated they are close to securing a new lease for the restaurant space.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [1:38:53]
1. Graffiti Watch Program: Member Fox suggested organizing a volunteer graffiti watch program similar to one he participated in while living in Long Beach, California. He proposed creating a small storage space for different paint colors needed to cover graffiti on various surfaces. Representative Garrett mentioned he would check with HPD’s District 7 community policing team, which has a graffiti eradication program that might be able to help.

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Updates – [1:41:33]: Elmer Kaai reported that the University of Hawaiʻi is significantly impacted by the federal government shutdown, affecting 10 different campuses. About 7,000 employees are paid partly or fully through federal funding. The university is concerned about funding cuts to Title III (English Learners Act), Title VI (Civil Rights Act), and the Native Hawaiian Education Program. He noted that UH has experienced a 4.7% drop in enrollment for international students, which is far less severe than the 30-40% decreases seen at other institutions.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QY0LgijrYRiwyPUpU0lcarM1n-vNZUgX/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [1:43:06]
1. Board Vacancy Recruitment: Member Moylan asked if UH could send a solicitation to employees who might live in Subdistrict 4 to fill board vacancies. Kaai noted that many campus employees don’t live in the area but offered to check.
2. Moped Safety: Member Chong reported seeing UH students riding mopeds without helmets and with two people per moped, both violations of a new law. She asked if the university could remind students about these requirements. Kaai confirmed they would send out another notice about moped safety regulations.

Governor Josh Green’s Representative – [1:45:18]: Laci Goshi reported that Governor Green recently launched a website at https://engage.hawaii.gov/ to encourage civic engagement. The goal is to build a central hub for transparency and participation where residents can engage directly with state government on issues that affect them. She also mentioned Operation Hire Hawaiʻi, an initiative to fill critical state government vacancies that is ongoing. It’s designed to streamline the hiring process and fast-track qualified candidates into public service roles. Currently, 40 job postings are available at https://dhrd.hawaii.gov/. Goshi noted that she had sent Member Watson a response regarding the biosecurity bill as requested at the previous meeting.

Congressman Ed Case’s Representative – [1:47:00]: No representative was present.

VIII. COMMUNITY CONCERNS – [1:47:08]

Pedestrian Safety Concerns – [1:47:25]: Resident Miyamoto raised urgent concerns about pedestrian safety along East Mānoa Road and Woodlawn Drive, particularly in front of Noelani Elementary School. Despite marked crosswalks, vehicles regularly speed through the area, and drivers often don’t stop for pedestrians, putting children and families at serious risk. The danger extends beyond the school zone, as East Mānoa Road has become a high-speed corridor where children walking to after-school programs at Mānoa Valley Church and the Japanese school are exposed to risk daily. Miyamoto urged the board to support a full traffic safety evaluation and advocate for permanent measures including raised crosswalks or speed humps, highly visible signage reinforcing the 20-mph school zone limit, and coordination with city departments to implement corridor-wide improvements. She emphasized the need for proactive action to prevent tragedies rather than reacting after one occurs.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [1:43:06]
1. Children Crossing: Member Chong asked if the cars are still crossing while children are using the crosswalks near First Hawaiian Bank. Miyamoto noted that drivers sometimes fail to see the traffic light in time, causing them to brake suddenly. Member Chong also asked if an adult assigned to help the students cross the street. Miyamoto noted the Japanese school has leaders who walk with students, safety concerns persist.
2. Committee Resolution: Member Moylan mentioned that his committee is looking into sidewalk issues and noted that the city’s priority list for sidewalks is based on injury and fatality data, which currently shows no incidents in Mānoa. The committee is considering a resolution to update the assessment and increase funding for sidewalks.

Mānoa Community Christmas Parade – [1:52:22]: Resident Ross announced the Mānoa Community Christmas Parade, sponsored by the Mānoa Lions Club, scheduled for Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. The event is expected to have approximately 1,100 marchers, 12 vehicles, and 5 bands. It will start at Noelani Elementary School, proceed to Lowrey Avenue, and finish at Mānoa Valley District Park, ending around 6:00 p.m. The contact person is Garrett Ogawa.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [1:53:10]
1. Event Time: Member Chong wanted to know the time of the parade. Resident Ross explained the parade will start in 4:00 p.m. and expected to end at 6:00 p.m. He also noted no parking along the affected roads during the event.

IHS Thanksgiving Homeward Bound 5K – [1:53:39]: Resident Knight from the Institute for Human Services (IHS) announced their 16th Annual Thanksgiving Homeward Bound 5K at Mānoa Valley on Thanksgiving morning. The event will begin at 8:00 a.m., with coning starting around 7:00 a.m., and will conclude before 10:00 a.m. Registration is available at https://ihshawaii.org/. The event is a critical fundraiser that helps fill funding gaps for IHS services to chronically homeless individuals.

IX. ANNOUNCEMENTS – [1:55:04]

Next Meeting – [1:55:07]: The next regular board meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at Noelani Elementary School Cafeteria and via WebEx.

Future Agenda Items – [1:55:28]: Dog parks will be on the next agenda for a vote to endorse or not endorse certain ideas. There will also be discussion and possible vote on changing the board’s subdistrict structure.

Panel Discussion – [1:56:03]: A panel discussion on balancing affordable housing needs with maintaining neighborhood character is tentatively planned for Saturday, October 25, 2025.

Olelo Re-Broadcast – [1:56:46]: Meetings can be viewed on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month at 3:00 p.m. or every third Tuesday at 9:00 p.m., as well as online on the Olelo website and Honolulu Digital Archives.

X. ADJOURNMENT – [1:57:06]: Chair Nagaji adjourned the meeting at 8:27 p.m.

Submitted by: Anson Wu, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Jeffery Jones, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Finalized by: Joan Koff, Secretary

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.