When

April 16, 2026

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Where

Makiki District Park (Arts & Crafts Building)
1527 Keʻeaumoku Street, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, 96822

Loading Map....

MAKIKI-LOWER PUNCHBOWL-TANTALUS NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 10

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2026 AT 6:00 P.M.
MAKIKI DISTRICT PARK (OLD MAKIKI COMMUNITY LIBRARY, 2ND FLOOR)
1527 KE’EAUMOKU STREET, HONOLULU, HI 96822 (https://maps.app.goo.gl/tn2vhKmnhhBafkJy5)
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=mf66d21b6ef825a3d0e117ed0856d527b
Meeting Number / Access Code: 2500 575 4786
Password: NB10 (6210 from phones and video systems)
Join by Phone: +1-408-418-9388 (United States Toll)

Meeting Recordings: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfqRwVpRrookChkQxjZlnB_r8en78zV4Q
Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1su4uYFuTVRMZYxBlR8WnaR0cDMcjbHjE

Purpose: §2-13-101 [Neighborhood Plan of 2008, City Charter] “Purpose. The purpose of this neighborhood plan and the neighborhood boards is to increase and assure effective citizen participation in the decisions of government.”

Community Vision Statement: “A safe and healthy community with a lei of parks connected by roads, sidewalks, and public transportation; where daily life is not interrupted by loud vehicles and other obnoxious noises; where all community members are valued, including the least fortunate; and where residents are proud to live.”

Rules of Speaking and Notes: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to raise their hand. When recognized by the Chair, address comments to the Chair. Speakers are encouraged to keep their comments under 3 minutes, and those giving reports are urged to keep their reports under 3 minutes. Please silence all electronic devices. The Board may take action 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 (2/3) vote of this 17-member Board is needed to add an item to the agenda. No item shall be added to the agenda if it is of reasonably major importance and action thereon by the board will affect a significant number of persons.

Description of Board Boundaries: www8.honolulu.gov/nco/boards-and-sub-district-boundary-descriptions

Food Drive: The City and County of Honolulu has launched its annual Food Drive to benefit the Hawaiʻi Foodbank. Residents are invited to participate by dropping off canned food donations at their Neighborhood Board meeting.

1. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Nathan Char (nathanielchar@gmail.com)

2. ROLL CALL – Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi (curtis.hayashi@honolulu.gov)

3. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) (HFDNHB@honolulu.gov)

4. HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) (www.honolulupd.org/contact-us)
A. Discussion of Tipsy Pig II with Liquor Commission Representatives – Anna Hirai (liquor@honolulu.gov)

5. BOARD OF WATER SUPPLY (BWS) – Michele Harman (www.boardofwatersupply.com/contact)

6. ELECTED OFFICIAL REPORTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi (www8.honolulu.gov/mayor/contact-the-mayor) – Megan Johnson
B. Councilmember Scott Nishimoto (www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district-5-scott-nishimoto) – Taylor Date
C. Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam (www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district-6-dos-santos-tam) – Robin Henski
D. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – Russell Pang (russell.wk.pang@hawaii.gov)
E. State Senator Carol Fukunaga (District 11) (senfukunaga@capitol.hawaii.gov)
F. State Representative Della Au Belatti (District 26) (repbelatti@capitol.hawaii.gov)
G. State Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto (District 25) (repiwamoto@capitol.hawaii.gov)
H. State Representative Ikaika Olds (District 23) (repolds@capitol.hawaii.gov)
I. State Representative Andrew Garrett (District 22) (repgarrett@capitol.hawaii.gov)
7. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
Questions for HFD, HPD, BWS, city officials, and state officials should be asked after their respective reports. Per the “Sunshine Law” (HRS 92), concerns not on the agenda may be presented, but the Board cannot take action.

Use HNL311.com or the HNL 311 mobile app to report issues like potholes, faded road signs, cracked sidewalks and broken streetlights (www.honolulu.gov/mayor/heres-how-to-download-the-new-hnl311-app).

8. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS
Submit public testimony at https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/board-testimony.
A. Filling of Vacant At-Large Seat: Interested residents must bring current proof of residency to the board meeting or contact Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi (curtis.hayashi@honolulu.gov) to verify residency before the meeting.
B. Approval of Written Summary for Video Record: Thursday, March 19, 2026
(Draft Written Summaries: www4.honolulu.gov/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-11258)
C. Vote to Cancel the Recess of the May 2026 Neighborhood Board No. 10 Regular Meeting
(Mayor’s 2026 town hall calendar has been indefinitely postponed due to impacts from recent Kona low storms)
D. Resolution to Inform the Neighborhood Commission and Neighborhood Board No. 12 (Nuʻuanu-Punchbowl) of Proposed Neighborhood Board No. 10 (Makiki-Tantalus) Boundary Amendments
E. Walk the District PIG (Permitted Interaction Group) Report (https://oip.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/QR-Who-Bd-Members-Can-Talk-to-When-PART-3-2024-Final.pdf)
F. Discussion of and Feedback on Auwaiolimu Street Restriping with the Department of Transportation Services (DTS) – Kelly Akasaki
G. Motion to Adopt a Resolution to Oppose Senate Bill 2423 Relating to Zoning (https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2423&year=2026) – Amanda Kirby

9. BOARD/COMMUNITY REPORTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
A. Nice Neighborhoods Committee – Harris Nakamoto (junfour@gmail.com)
Committee Agendas: www4.honolulu.gov/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-15372
B. O‘ahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) – Adam Kirchmann (adamkirchmann@gmail.com)
Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC): oahumpo.org/citizen-advisory-committee

10. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. Next Regular Meeting: The Makiki/Lower Punchbowl/Tantalus Neighborhood Board No. 10 is scheduled to meet on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at Makiki District Park (Old Makiki Community Library, 2nd Floor) and online via Webex.
B. Broadcast, Social Media, and Board Info: The meetings can be viewed on ʻŌlelo FOCUS 49 on the first Friday at 9:00 p.m. and third Sunday at 3:00 p.m. (https://olelo.org/tune-in). Follow us at http://www.facebook.com/MakikiNB and visit https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/nb10 for Makiki Neighborhood Board info.

11. ADJOURNMENT

A mailing list is maintained for interested persons and agencies to receive this board’s agenda and minutes. Additions, corrections, and deletions to the mailing list may be directed to the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) at Kapālama Hale, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817, by telephone on (808) 768-3710, fax (808) 768-3711, or emailing nco@honolulu.gov. Agenda documents and minutes are also available online at http://www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards.

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

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

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2026 AT 6:00 P.M.
MAKIKI DISTRICT PARK (OLD MAKIKI COMMUNITY LIBRARY, 2ND FLOOR) – 1527 KE’EAUMOKU STREET, HONOLULU, HI 96822 AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Meeting Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtpQo2KTX9A&list=PLfqRwVpRrookChkQxjZlnB_r8en78zV4Q

Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1su4uYFuTVRMZYxBlR8WnaR0cDMcjbHjE

1. CALL TO ORDER [0:00:00]: Chair Char called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

2. ROLL CALL [0:00:00]: Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi conducted roll call. Quorum was established with 12 members present. This 17-member Board requires nine members to establish quorum and to take Board action.

Members Present: Kahanu Chan, Linda Dela Cruz, Nancy Depicolzuane (joined at 6:04 p.m.), Grant Dubyak (appointed at 7:27 p.m.), Arthur Eberhardt, Janel Fujinaka, Kimberley Gallant, Richard Kawano, Amanda Kirby, Adam Kirchmann, Chuck Lee, Samuel Mitchell (joined at 6:56 p.m.), Harris Nakamoto, Bronson Silva (Secretary), John Steelquist (Vice Chair), and Nathaniel Char (Chair).

Members Absent: Eric Salassa.

Guests: Captain Goh and Firefighter Hanohano-Hong (Honolulu Fire Department); Sergeant Wakabayashi (Honolulu Police Department); Michele Harman (Board of Water Supply); Megan Johnson (Mayor Blangiardi); Taylor Date (Councilmember Nishimoto); Robin Henski (Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam); Russell Pang (Governor Green); Hector Venegas (Senator Fukunaga); Representative Della Au Belatti; Kate Ozawa (Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto); Grace Kim (Representative Olds); Mike Buck (C.O.R.E.); Tom Heinrich and Ian Ross (Residents/Guests); Curtis Hayashi (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible or stated for the record. About 47 participants joined the meeting.

3. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) [0:01:24]: Captain Goh and Firefighter Hanohano-Hong presented February 2026 statistics: 8 nuisance/rubbish fires, 14 activated alarms, 129 medical incidents, and 1 hazmat incident. Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Test alarms at least once a month using the test button. Replace alarms that are ten years old or no longer respond to testing.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:02:59]:
1. HFD Staffing Vacancies: Member Lee asked about vacancy levels in HFD. Captain Goh reported approximately 80 Firefighter I vacancies. HFD conducts a recruitment test approximately every two years; the last test was held in 2024. Captain Goh stated there is no cause for public alarm regarding current staffing levels.
2. Medical Response Protocol: Member Lee asked about HFD’s role in the 129 medical incidents. Captain Goh explained that Emergency Medical Services handles primary care, but Honolulu Fire Department responds alongside for critical cases like cardiac arrests, respiratory emergencies, or patient extractions needing extra personnel.
3. Lithium-Ion Battery Fires: Member Kawano raised concerns about fires from e-bike and e-scooter batteries. Captain Goh confirmed a rise in lithium-ion battery fires, with Honolulu Fire Department providing specialized training and equipment. Safety tips include charging outdoors, buying from licensed makers, avoiding overloaded circuits, and never leaving batteries unattended. No laws ban indoor storage, and first-generation units are now failing at 10 years.
4. Laws on Storing Flammables: Member Kawano asked about laws governing the storage of flammables such as gasoline in condominiums. Captain Goh recommended storing flammable materials in approved metal containers inside a metal cabinet, kept in a garage or utility room rather than a living area.
5. Storm Response: Member Kawano asked about HFD’s experience during the recent storm. Captain Goh reported that HFD responded to approximately 700 calls on the day of the storm, compared to a typical average of 120–130 calls per day, making it one of the busiest days on record.
6. Lithium-Ion Fire Blankets: Member Kirchmann, a building manager, asked whether lithium-ion fire blankets are effective. Captain Goh stated HFD is still evaluating the product for departmental use, primarily in the context of electric vehicles. He noted that any containment effort prior to HFD’s arrival could be helpful.
7. Humidity and Smoke Alarm False Activations: A resident reported her smoke alarm activating during humid conditions and sought recommendations. Captain Goh acknowledged the common issue and offered to research humidity-prone alarm models or manufacturers, planning to share findings at a future meeting.

Member Depicolzuane joined the meeting at 6:04 p.m.; 13 members present.

4. HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) [0:12:29]: Sergeant Wakabayashi reported February 2026 crime stats compared to January: motor vehicle thefts dropped from 7 to 6, burglaries rose from 1 to 4, thefts fell from 32 to 23, unauthorized vehicle entries stayed at 4, assaults decreased from 5 to 3, sex assaults dropped from 1 to 0, graffiti went from 2 to 0, drugs rose from 0 to 2, and collisions increased from 87 to 92. Total calls for service declined from 1,954 to 1,744. On March 8, 2026 at Davenport Street, police towed 4 vehicles, issued 24 citations, and made arrests after incidents with juveniles and an adult. Island-wide traffic fatalities are 11, down from 18 last year. One citation was issued at the Prospect/Alapaʻi five-way stop.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:15:11]:
1. Freeway Racing: Member Fujinaka reported early morning street racing on the freeway, audible from her apartment, and asked if police are seeking Department of Law Enforcement assistance. Sergeant Wakabayashi welcomed interagency help and urged residents to call Honolulu Police Department during incidents to support enforcement.
2. Mobile Surveillance Unit Update: Member Silva asked for an update on the planned mobile surveillance unit at Tantalus Lookout. Sergeant Wakabayashi stated he had not yet received notes from the prior meeting and will provide a status update, including the operational timeline, at the next board meeting.
3. Piʻikoi Street/King Street Pedestrian Safety: Member Depicolzuane reported witnessing a pedestrian struck at Piʻikoi and King Streets. She raised concerns about hazardous conditions along Piʻikoi Street near Young Street, King Street, and Beretania Street, including multiple near-miss incidents she has personally observed, and noted reported statistics may not reflect the full picture of incidents in the area.
4. 1158 Lunalilo Street/Tipsy Pig Issues: Member Depicolzuane reported large motorcycle events every other week at 1158 Lunalilo Street, blocking bike lanes and sidewalks, forcing a wheelchair user into the street. Issues include drugs, late-night noise, and revving after police leave. Liquor Commission cited understaffing. She called for a long-term fix.
5. Special Duty Officers at Tipsy Pig: Member Kirby asked whether special duty officers hired by the community could issue citations at the location. Sergeant Wakabayashi explained that special duty officers are assigned a specific function and must call patrol to handle any arising cases. He noted that the Tipsy Pig falls under a different patrol sector and that he would need to coordinate with the sergeants responsible for that area.
6. Mobile Surveillance Camera at Tipsy Pig: Member Kirchmann asked whether a mobile surveillance unit could be installed near the Tipsy Pig. Sergeant Wakabayashi agreed to take the suggestion back to the command.

5. BOARD OF WATER SUPPLY (BWS) [0:23:39]: Michele Harman followed up on February 2026 meeting questions. Board of Water Supply is scheduling a long-term water supply presentation by Barry Usagawa and coordinating Capital Improvement Program updates with Member Kawano and Tom Heinrich. The Department of Environmental Services transfers $1.36 million quarterly to Board of Water Supply for billing services. One main break occurred February 13 at 2362 Maunalaha Road. World Water Day information is at https://www.boardofwatersupply.com/wwd.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:25:13]:
1. Pensacola/Lunalilo Watermain Construction Timeline: Chair Char asked how much longer construction will continue past the Pensacola Street and Lunalilo Street intersection. Michele Harman reported the project is 54% complete with a total duration of 720 calendar days, started in 2021, and is taking longer than originally projected.
2. Red Hill Spill – EPA/CRI Meeting and World Water Day Walk: Attendee Melly asked about the status of the EPA-canceled meeting related to the Red Hill fuel spill, and whether BWS can comment on the walk from Ala Moana Beach Park to Kapiʻolani Park scheduled for World Water Day.

6. ELECTED OFFICIAL REPORTS [0:27:48]

A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative [0:27:48]: Megan Johnson submitted a written report with responses to questions from the February 2026 meeting to Chair Char. Two town halls nearest to Makiki are scheduled: May 14, 2026 at Mission Memorial Auditorium (6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.) and May 21, 2026 at Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse (6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.). A full schedule of island-wide town halls is available in the March 2026 newsletter (https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/newsletter).

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:29:15]:
1. DTS Follow-Up on Street Restriping Near Schools: Member Kirby reported drivers mounting the sidewalk curb with two wheels to reach the right-turn lane, passing within 2-3 feet of walking students. She observed large trucks and vans at 15 mph on the sidewalk during school hours in the Papakōlea area.
2. Affordable Housing Units: Member Eberhardt cited news reports indicating the Mayor announced $3 billion in development processed, but that of 1,563 pending units only 189 have been completed. He asked where the City stands on permitting for those units. Megan Johnson agreed to pose the question to the Department of Planning and Permitting and provide a response at the next meeting.
3. Lunalilo Street Pothole Repairs: Member Fujinaka requested that the Mayor’s office coordinate with DTS to repair potholes along the full Lunalilo Street corridor from the off-ramp to the on-ramp. Megan Johnson suggested submitting specific problem areas through the HNL 311 app and offered to relay the concern to DTS.
4. Notification of Large Development Projects: Member Kirchmann asked whether the Board can be proactively notified of large Bill 7 or other development projects in the neighborhood before construction begins, rather than learning about them informally. Megan Johnson agreed to inquire with the Department of Planning and Permitting about providing periodic reports on recently approved or pending permits in the area.

B. Councilmember Scott Nishimoto (District 5) [0:36:21]: Taylor Date offered storm recovery assistance and announced an Easter egg hunt with Representative Au Belatti on March 28, 2026 at Makiki District Park from 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., weather permitting. The free Community Tax Clinic with Representative Au Belatti was rescheduled to April 4, 2026 at the Hawaiʻi State Library, requiring appointments through either office. Chair Char thanked the office for swiftly replacing signs near Stevenson Middle School.

C. Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam (District 6) [0:38:27]: Robin Henski provided the report and shared the March 2026 newsletter (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZAwDAq7jzn2xdtpH4ej9P9-Sc2-S8hqk/view). In response to Member Fujinaka’s question from the February 2026 meeting, Robin reported that DTS (Department of Transportation Services) indicated the OTS (Oahu Transit Service) hazard pay matter is a matter of ongoing negotiations; Robin is seeking a more detailed response. A traffic impact report has been received by the Councilmember’s office in response to Member Depicolzuane’s prior request and will be provided to her.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:40:03]:
1. OTS Stipend Acknowledgment: Member Fujinaka thanked Robin for following up on the OTS hazard pay issue.
2. Affordable Housing Units: Member Eberhardt asked Robin to request that Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam report at the next meeting on the number of affordable housing units currently under construction and in the permitting pipeline.
3. Traffic Study Acknowledgment: Member Depicolzuane thanked Robin for following up on the traffic study.

D. Governor Josh Green’s Representative [0:41:34]: Russell Pang submitted written responses to questions from the February 2026 meeting to Chair Char. Key announcements:
• Hawaiʻi Quality of Life Survey: The Governor’s Office of Wellness and Resilience and the University of Hawaiʻi are conducting the 2nd Statewide Hawaiʻi Quality of Life Survey covering health, well-being, housing, cost of living, transportation, and community concerns. Link: www.health-study.com.
• Tax Filing Deadline Reminder: The Hawaiʻi State tax filing deadline is April 28, 2026. The Department of Taxation advises that new USPS postmarking procedures may delay the postmark by one to three days. Residents are advised to mail tax returns a few days early, file online, or drop off in person at the tax office.
• Hawaiian Diacritical Marks on Street Signs: The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation is adding ʻokinas and kahakōs to Hawaiian street names on the state highway system. Eight potentially misspelled street names (none in this district) are under review. Community input from kūpuna is requested; comments accepted through December 31, 2026.
• Lunalilo Street Repaving: The Department of Transportation plans to repave the Lunalilo Street corridor as well as the Ward and Keeaumoku overpasses. No date has been set but the project is scheduled. Contractor disputes on the Ward Overpass project have been resolved. Pothole-patching crews are being dispatched in the interim.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:48:39]:
1. Election Commission Meetings: Member Lee thanked Russell for the response regarding the Big Island vote count discrepancy and encouraged community members to view Election Commission meetings.
2. Bribery Investigation Update: Member Fujinaka expressed appreciation for the Governor’s efforts, while calling for continued accountability and resolution of the issue.
3. King Street Bike Lane Striping: Member Depicolzuane asked about the status of bike lane and street markings on King Street, noting that vehicles are using the bike lane. Russell agreed to follow up with the City’s Department of Transportation Services (DTS) or Department of Facility Management (DFM) and to coordinate with Megan Johnson.
4. Ward Avenue Overpass: Member Chan asked whether the previously reported contractor disputes on the Ward Overpass project have been resolved. Russell confirmed they have been resolved and the project is on schedule.

E. State Senator Carol Fukunaga (District 11) [0:52:34]: Hector Venegas, from Senator Fukunaga’s office, reported on condominium insurance reform bills SB 2433, SB 2950, and SB 2952, addressing education funding, captive insurance options, and 60-day notice for rate increases starting 2027. He covered school traffic safety discussions on ʻĀuwaiolimu Street restriping and bills SB 3224 SD2 for school crosswalks and SB 2010 for vehicle impoundment when drivers lack valid licenses. Senator Fukunaga invited DTS to the next Neighborhood Board meeting.

Member Mitchell joined the meeting at 6:56 p.m.; 14 members present.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:57:18]:
1. Commendation for Senator Fukunaga: Member Lee commended Senator Fukunaga for her advocacy on behalf of kūpuna and condo owners, her advance distribution of reports prior to meetings, and requested that a direct link to bill testimony submission pages be included in future reports to make it easier for kūpuna to participate. Hector Venegas agreed to convey the request. Member Lee also noted Senator Fukunaga’s neighbor-to-neighbor website.
2. Neighborhood Board Quorum Reform: Tom Heinrich highlighted SB 2397 by Senator Fukunaga, which would adjust neighborhood board quorum rules. Currently, this 17-member board requires a fixed nine for quorum, regardless of vacancies. The bill excludes vacant seats from the denominator, applies a majority-of-quorum-present threshold, has crossed to the House, and is referred to Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs.
3. Quorum Clarification: Member Kawano asked about the minimum number of members that could conduct business under SB 2397. Tom Heinrich and Chair Char clarified that quorum is calculated based on filled seats, and action requires a majority of those present at quorum. Tom noted a concern that with very few members present a small number could take significant action, and advised all members to take their representative duty seriously.

F. State Representative Della Au Belatti (District 26) [1:06:28]: Representative Belatti reported that the tax clinic was rescheduled to April 4, 2026, with required appointments, while the Easter egg hunt and food drive remain set for March 28, 2026. She briefed the House Public Safety Committee on community resiliency hubs, which activate during emergencies. She is collaborating with Member Nakamoto on the Kīnaʻu hub and highlighted the SERENE network’s Oʻahu resiliency workshop planned for June 2026.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:10:08]:
1. Affordable Housing Bills: Member Eberhardt raised concerns about two affordable housing bills that contradict the City’s Bill 7 and asked for her position on these bills. Representative Belatti explained her position.

G. State Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto (District 25) [1:15:43]: Kate Ozawa reported the House is now hearing Senate bills. A district-wide survey is being finalized for distribution to all district residents by end of March 2026, seeking input on issues including the new Aloha Stadium and the legislature’s response to potential immigration enforcement.

H. State Representative Ikaika Olds (District 23) [1:17:01]: Grace Kim represented Representative Olds, who was unable to attend, and asked for questions.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:17:27]:
1. Homeless-Related Bills: Member Lee asked about the status of Representative Olds’ homeless-related bills. Grace Kim offered to follow up with the representative and report back.

I. State Representative Andrew Garrett (District 22) [1:18:38]: Representative Garrett was unable to attend, but he provided his newsletter (https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/memberfiles/House/Garrett/Newsletters/2026SpringNewsletter.pdf).

7. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS [1:19:14]

Speeding and Reckless Driving on Tantalus Drive: Resident Grant Dubyak reported ongoing speeding and reckless driving on Tantalus Drive, including a near-collision with his wife and children that evening. He has repeatedly requested traffic calming via HNL 311 and urged police and City action. Chair Char confirmed the longstanding issue, noting an officer’s pass-by. Member Fujinaka described coordinated car groups with police lookouts and encouraged more Tantalus residents to attend meetings.

8. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS [1:21:50]

A. Filling of Vacant At-Large Seat [1:21:50]: Two candidates volunteered to fill one vacant at-large seat.
1. Richard Ching (1099 Green Street), Scoutmaster and Cubmaster for Troop/Pack 10 Makiki, cited involvement with community issues around 1427 Ernest Street. Nominated by Member Fujinaka; seconded by Member Nakamoto.
2. Grant Dubyak (Tantalus Drive), a U.S. Naval officer stationed at Pearl Harbor, cited Tantalus Drive safety issues as a primary motivation. Nominated by Member Fujinaka; seconded by Member Steelquist.

[1:25:45] Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi conducted a roll call vote. Grant Dubyak was APPOINTED; 9-5 (Dubyak: Chan, Dela Cruz, Depicolzuane, Eberhardt, Fujinaka, Kirby, Mitchell, Steelquist, and Char; Ching: Kawano, Kirchmann, Lee, Nakamoto, and Silva).

Grant Dubyak took the oath of office; 15 members present.

Following the vote, Member Chan offered to resign his at-large seat to create an open seat for Richard Ching, noting he had originally joined to help establish quorum. Chair Char advised Member Chan to submit his resignation in writing by email after the meeting so the vacancy can be added for the April 2026 meeting. Member Chan will continue as a board member for the remainder of the March 2026 meeting.

B. Election of Makiki Neighborhood Board Treasurer [1:31:28]: Member Kirchmann volunteered to serve as Treasurer. [1:32:14] Member Fujinaka NOMINATED Member Kirchmann. Hearing no objections, Member Kirchmann was elected as the Board’s Treasurer; 15-0 (Kirchmann: Chan, Dela Cruz, Depicolzuane, Dubyak, Eberhardt, Fujinaka, Kawano, Kirby, Kirchmann, Lee, Mitchell, Nakamoto, Silva, Steelquist, and Char; Abstain: None).

C. Approval of Written Summary for Video Record: Thursday, February 19, 2026 [1:32:50]: No corrections were offered. The February 2026 written summary was ADOPTED; 15-0-0 (Aye: Chan, Dela Cruz, Depicolzuane, Dubyak, Eberhardt, Fujinaka, Kawano, Kirby, Kirchmann, Lee, Mitchell, Nakamoto, Silva, Steelquist, and Char; Nay: None; Abstain: None).

D. Hawaiian Telcom Presentation on Fiber Optics [1:33:06]: Lois Pak (Hawaiian Telcom) was unable to attend the meeting. Chair Char postponed the presentation to June 2026.

E. Vote on Recessing Neighborhood Board No. 10 Regular Meeting to Attend Mayor Blangiardi’s Town Hall on Thursday, May 21, 2026 [1:33:20]: Chair Char presented a motion to recess the May 2026 regular meeting to attend Mayor Blangiardi’s Town Hall on Thursday, May 21, 2026 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Ala Wai Golf Course Ballroom. Chair Char noted department heads will be present and the event offers a valuable opportunity for direct engagement with the City government. [1:34:20] Member Fujinaka MOVED and Chair Char SECONDED to recess the May 2026 regular meeting to attend the Mayor’s Town Hall. Without objection, the motion was ADOPTED; 15-0-0 (Aye: Chan, Dela Cruz, Depicolzuane, Dubyak, Eberhardt, Fujinaka, Kawano, Kirby, Kirchmann, Lee, Mitchell, Nakamoto, Silva, Steelquist, and Char; Nay: None; Abstain: None).

F. Discussion on SB 2423 (Relating to Zoning) and HB 1734 (Relating to Zoning) [1:36:31]: Chair Char noted the Neighborhood Board received a letter from City Council Chair Tommy Waters recommending discussion of these bills, and the item was added to the agenda at the recommendation of Member Kirby.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:36:51]:
1. Opposition to Both Bills: Member Kirby stated she opposes both SB 2423 and HB 1734. She explained the bills would reclassify approximately 90% of Oʻahu within the State Land Use urban district, overriding county zoning designations. While she understands the state’s motivation given slow permitting, she believes unregulated state-level control would be dangerous and lacks sufficient oversight.
2. Individual Testimony Recommended: Member Fujinaka suggested that rather than passing a board resolution—which would take too long given the bills’ legislative timeline—board members submit individual testimony identifying their position on the bills, noting their neighborhood board affiliation.
3. Board Voice vs. Individual Testimony: Member Kirchmann and Member Eberhardt noted that a board resolution carries more weight than individual testimony. Chair Char acknowledged that because this is a discussion item only, no board action can be taken at this meeting.
4. Individual Testimony Process: Member Mitchell suggested submitting public testimony as board members, without claiming to represent the full Neighborhood Board. Chair Char confirmed this approach.
5. Bill Status Update: Tom Heinrich reported that SB 2423 was recommitted on March 10 and did not cross over; HB 1734 has had no action since mid-February. He advised the board to verify current status before the April meeting, as neither bill appears to be actively moving.
6. Next Steps: Chair Char stated he will add an action item on the April 2026 agenda and will prepare a draft resolution. Member Steelquist suggested a special meeting and Chair Char noted prior special meetings have been unsuccessful in achieving quorum. Member Kirby recommended pursuing both individual testimony and a resolution.

G. Discussion on Neighborhood Board No. 10 Board Boundaries [1:47:04]: Chair Char announced that the Neighborhood Commission requires boards to indicate by April 27, 2026, if they seek district boundary amendments. Key issues include Stevenson Middle School and Lincoln Elementary School, tied to Makiki but across the line. Tom Heinrich reviewed the boundary along Pele Street and ʻĀuwaiolimu, suggesting Ward Avenue as a clearer edge. He urged the board to formally express interest to the Neighborhood Commission based on community needs.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:48:14]:
1. Boundary Clarification: Member Fujinaka asked what specific boundary changes are being considered. Tom Heinrich reviewed the southwest and northeast boundary areas.
2. School District Alignment: Member Kirchmann recommended considering how many students from Stevenson and Lincoln reside within the board’s district versus adjacent districts.
3. Community Engagement on Boundary Changes: Ian Ross encouraged board members to engage with residents in the affected areas before finalizing any changes, citing the Board’s prior successful opposition to state redistricting that had split the Papakōlea community.
4. Agreement on General Direction: Member Kawano noted that school district maps show Lincoln, Stevenson, and Roosevelt largely overlapping with this board’s district, supporting their inclusion. Chair Char stated the board appears to be in general agreement that boundary changes should be pursued and will place a motion on the April agenda.

H. Discussion on Kinau Community Hub Event [2:02:25]: Member Nakamoto announced the Kīnaʻu Community Hub Event, set for April 7, 2026, from 4:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. at the Honolulu Museum of Art’s Doris Duke Theatre. Presentations will cover agency updates, Nice Neighborhoods, and the launch of the Kīnaʻu Area Resilience Hub Planning Committee for the Alapaʻi-to-King Streets pilot zone. Registration is limited to 250, food is donated, and there is a $5 entry fee.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:09:26]:
1. $5 Registration Fee: Member Kawano expressed concern that the $5 fee could deter some community members from attending. Member Nakamoto clarified the fee serves as a commitment mechanism, all food and drinks are provided, and all funds will be donated to the Hawaiʻi Foodbank.

9. BOARD/COMMUNITY REPORTS [2:10:22]

A. Nice Neighborhoods Committee [2:10:22]: Chair Char noted the Nice Neighborhoods Committee is currently focused on the Kīnaʻu Community Hub Event (Item 8H). He recommended re-adding the Tipsy Pig and Tantalus Drive issues to the committee’s agenda. The next Nice Neighborhoods Committee meeting is Monday, March 30, 2026.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:11:47]:
1. Nice Neighborhoods Committee Scope Clarification: Member Depicolzuane asked whether the committee’s scope covers the entire Makiki neighborhood or is limited to the Kīnaʻu pilot area. Member Nakamoto clarified that Nice Neighborhoods is a committee of the full Neighborhood Board covering issues throughout the district; the Kīnaʻu Community Hub is a pilot project representing a small subset of the committee’s broader work, which has previously addressed issues at 1427 Ernest Street, the Tipsy Pig, and other district-wide concerns.
2. Communication and Meeting Access: Member Depicolzuane requested better communication of Nice Neighborhoods agendas and minutes, noting that board members have had difficulty accessing committee meetings online. Member Nakamoto acknowledged ongoing technical issues and stated he has set up a new Zoom meeting link to resolve access problems going forward. Minutes and agendas are submitted to Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi after each meeting.

B. Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) [2:17:19]: Chair Char provided a brief summary. OMPO is working on a long-range plan through 2050. The nearest project benefit for this district is sidewalk installation on Naho Street, currently scheduled for 2028, with additional projects planned for 2030 pending funding. Board members attend meetings in an advisory capacity. A more complete report will be provided at the next meeting.

10. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS [2:18:16]

A. Next Meeting: The Makiki/Lower Punchbowl/Tantalus Neighborhood Board No. 10 is scheduled to meet on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at Makiki District Park (Old Makiki Community Library, 2nd Floor) and online via Webex.

B. Broadcast, Social Media, and Board Info: The meetings can be viewed on ʻŌlelo FOCUS Channel 49 on the first Friday at 9:00 p.m. and third Sunday at 3:00 p.m. (https://olelo.org/tune-in). Follow us at http://www.facebook.com/MakikiNB and visit https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/nb10 for Makiki Neighborhood Board info.

11. ADJOURNMENT [2:19:00]: Chair Char adjourned the meeting at 8:19 p.m.

Submitted by: Curtis Hayashi, Neighborhood Assistant, Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO)
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO)
Finalized by:

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.