MAKIKI-LOWER PUNCHBOWL-TANTALUS NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 10

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 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=m68028c3e27e774d1d04ecd3285e2d56f
Meeting Number / Access Code: 2489 709 0074
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 should raise their hand and, when recognized by the Chair, address comments through the Chair. Speakers and report presenters are encouraged to limit remarks to three minutes. Please silence electronic devices. The Board may act on any listed 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

Subscribe to Receive Meeting Agendas via Email: www8.honolulu.gov/nco/newsletter-subscription

Subscribe to Receive City News Updates via Email: www.honolulu.gov/mayor/newsletter-signup

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

2. ROLL CALL – Neighborhood Assistant Kelly Nakamura (kelly.nakamura@honolulu.gov)

3. PUBLIC SAFETY AND COMMUNITY REPORTS
A. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) (HFDNHB@honolulu.gov)
B. HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) (https://www.honolulupd.org/contact-us)
C. BOARD OF WATER SUPPLY (BWS) – Lorna Heller (https://www.boardofwatersupply.com/contact)

4. ELECTED OFFICIAL REPORTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi (www8.honolulu.gov/mayor/contact-the-mayor) – Megan Johnson
B. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – Russell Pang (russell.wk.pang@hawaii.gov)

5. 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.

6. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
A. Approval of Written Summary for Video Record: Thursday, September 17, 2026
(Draft Written Summaries: www4.honolulu.gov/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-11258)
B. Department of Transportation (DTS) Complete Streets – Honolulu Safer Streets Project
(Website: www.honolulu.gov/completestreets/urban-core/)
(Honolulu Safer Streets Project Fact Sheet: https://www.honolulu.gov/completestreets/wp-content/uploads/sites/37/2026/06/260622-HNL-Safer-Streets_Fact-sheet.pdf)
C. Adopting the Resolution to Oppose the 1441 Liholiho Project
D. Discussion of Renovation of 1420 Wilder
E. Adopting Candidate Forum Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) Report
F. RECESS FOR CANDIDATE FORUM
G. O‘ahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) – Adam Kirchmann (adamkirchmann@gmail.com)
Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC): oahumpo.org/citizen-advisory-committee

7. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. Next Regular Meeting: The Makiki/ Lower Punchbowl/Tantalus Neighborhood Board No. 10 is scheduled to meet on Thursday, November 19, 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: This meeting can be viewed on ʻŌlelo FOCUS 49 on Wednesday, October 28, 2026 at 8:30 a.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.

8. ADJOURNMENT

A mailing list is maintained for interested persons and agencies to receive this board’s agenda and minutes. Additions, corrections, and deletions to the mailing list may be directed to the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) at Kapālama Hale, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817, by telephone on (808) 768-3710, fax (808) 768-3711, or emailing nco@honolulu.gov. Agenda documents 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, 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, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026 AT 6:00 P.M.
MAKIKI DISTRICT PARK (OLD MAKIKI COMMUNITY LIBRARY, 2ND FLOOR)
1527 KEʻEAUMOKU STREET, HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI 96822
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3h6Wb9Hkik

Meeting materials can be found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1su4uYFuTVRMZYxBlR8WnaR0cDMcjbHjE

1. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:00]: Chair Nathan Char called the Makiki/Lower Punchbowl/Tantalus Neighborhood Board No. 10 regular meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

2. ROLL CALL – [0:00:29]: Neighborhood Assistant Kelly Nakamura of the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) conducted roll call. Quorum WAS established with eleven (11) board members present – [0:01:46]. Note: This 17-member Board requires nine members to establish quorum and to take Board action.

Board Members Present: Richard Ching, Linda Dela Cruz, Arthur Eberhardt, Richard Kawano, Amanda Kirby, Adam Kirchmann, Chuck Lee, Samuel Mitchell, Eric Salassa, John Steelquist, Nathan Char, Nancy Depicolzuane (joined at 6:07 p.m.), and Kimberley Gallant (joined at 6:38 p.m.).

Board Members Absent: Grant Dubyak, Janel Fujinaka, Harris Nakamoto, and Bronson Silva.

Guests: Captain Goh and Firefighter Hanohano-Hong (Honolulu Fire Department – HFD); Sergeant Brian Morris (Honolulu Police Department – HPD); Michele Harman (Board of Water Supply – BWS); Megan Johnson (Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative); Taylor Date (Councilmember Scott Nishimoto’s Office); Robin Henski (Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam’s Office); Russell Pang (Governor Josh Green’s Representative); Senator Carol Fukunaga (Senate District 11); Cyrus Howe (Hawaiʻi Green Growth); Taeyong Kim (Environmental Communications, Inc.), Brian Fujiwara (Project Architect); Steven Lam (Cen Pac); Sage Murakami (Oʻahu Resilience Hub Learning Community); Tom Heinrich; Richard Chan, Erin Gilbert, Richard King, Michele Luke, Laura Ruby, Claire Santos, Wendy Tolleson, and Winston Sun (Residents); Kelly Nakamura (Neighborhood Commission Office – NCO). Names are not included if illegible on sign-in sheet or inaudible. About 55 participants joined the meeting.

3. PUBLIC SAFETY AND COMMUNITY REPORTS – [0:02:02]

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – [0:02:08]: Chair Char noted that HFD was on their way and that the Board would return to HFD upon its arrival.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – [0:02:25]: Sergeant Morris reported the following:
● August 2026 Crime Statistics: Motor vehicle thefts 11 (up from 6), burglaries 4 (down from 5), thefts of all degrees 28 (up from 23), unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle (UEMV) 5 (up from 3), assaults 10 (up from 4), sex assaults 1 (up from 0), graffiti 0 (Sergeant Morris believed this figure is inaccurate, as he personally made one graffiti arrest; 0 the previous month), drug cases 7, and motor vehicle collisions 94 (up from 93). Total calls for service: 1,987, slightly more than the previous month.
● Wilder Avenue/Pensacola Street Left Turns: Drivers may not turn left until the left-turn signal is on, nor jump from the right lane to turn left. Five citations were issued at the intersection the day before the meeting for turning left against the light, and one earlier in the week for lane jumping.
● People Living in Vehicles on Davenport Street: The concern has been addressed and HPD continues to enforce; enforcement is more feasible at night, with daytime patrols when possible.

Questions, comments, and concerns – [0:04:36]
1. HPD Drone Program Follow-Up: Kirby asked follow-up questions on the HPD drone program presented two months ago: whether drone footage of accidents will be recorded; if so, whether it can be used for court or insurance purposes and requested by persons involved in a police report; whether recording begins at takeoff or upon arrival at the incident; and whether drones will be used only when called or also proactively in high-traffic areas or on holidays. Sergeant Morris did not know and said he would find out.
2. Five-Way Intersection at ʻIolani Avenue, Prospect Street, and Alapaʻi Street: Resident Claire Santos thanked HPD for monitoring and ticketing drivers who chronically run the stop signs at the five-way intersection where Mr. Milikini was killed in a crash two years ago. She noted restriping to improve visibility began that week and flashing stop signs are pending from the Department of Transportation Services (DTS). Sergeant Morris said officers will continue checking the area.
3. Disruptive Individual Parked on Makiki Heights Drive: Resident Erin Gilbert reported that a woman repeatedly parks below Gilbert’s home on Makiki Heights Drive and loudly yells profanity day and night, disturbing neighbors, and asked what can be done since it is public property. Sergeant Morris said he is familiar with the gold-colored station wagon, urged residents to call HPD while the noise is occurring, especially at night, and noted an expired safety check or illegal parking would give officers grounds to make contact. Asked about the parking time limit in the area, Sergeant Morris said he would check for signage at the dirt lot.
4. Loud Music at Makiki District Park: Resident Wendy Tolleson asked whether HPD can cite people who blare boom boxes under the trees at Makiki District Park, noting they turn the volume back up after officers leave. Sergeant Morris said officers do not carry decibel meters and generally speak with people first, but continued violations may result in a citation or an arrest for disorderly conduct; he encouraged residents to call each time.
5. Homeless Encampment Under the Liholiho Street Bridge: Resident Winston Sun asked whether residents should call 911 or submit an HNL 311 report regarding the encampment and items that have accumulated under the Liholiho Street bridge for three months, noting his 311 reports received no status update. Sergeant Morris said the State cleared the area about three months ago; officers check every 311 report and record their findings, and had checked the area twice that day without finding anyone present; HPD cannot remove large items such as couches and beds itself; and residents may call 911 when people are present. HPD’s bike unit also checks the area.

Member Depicolzuane joined at 6:07 p.m.; 12 members present.

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) Continued – [0:13:36]: Chair Char recognized HFD out of order. Firefighter Hanohano-Hong, accompanied by Captain Goh, reported the following:
● Incident Statistics: 29 activated alarms, 118 medical emergencies, and 4 motor vehicle crashes/collisions.
● Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Tips: HFD is responding to more lithium-ion battery incidents involving smartphones, laptops, scooters, bikes, toys, and cars. Residents were advised to use the cord and charger that came with the device, charge on hard surfaces, unplug devices once fully charged, charge large items such as bikes, scooters, and power tools outside when possible without blocking exits, and stop using any device that feels hot, swells, smells strange, leaks, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sounds. On flights, keep charging devices in sight, do not charge e-cigarettes or vapes, and alert a flight attendant to any problem.
● Fire Prevention Week Family Day: Saturday, October 3, 2026, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Honolulu Zoo.
● September 2026 Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TjtB4lpOfyrPfEMZHazM8sGazEFfw5Vp/view

Questions, comments, and concerns – [0:16:13]
1. Tracking Lithium-Ion Battery Fires in Homes: Kawano asked whether HFD tracks lithium-ion battery fires in houses and apartments so that laws, such as prohibiting scooters indoors, could be considered if the problem grows. Captain Goh responded that there are currently no State, federal, or county laws on the matter, though associations may adopt their own rules; HFD tracks lithium-ion battery fires generally but not by device type; and specific incident reports may be requested through the “Requests” tab on the HFD website. At Kawano’s request, Captain Goh agreed to request monthly lithium-ion battery fire statistics for the Makiki area from the Fire Prevention Bureau for the next meeting, noting that providing them to every board would be a higher-level decision.
2. Nuisance Alarms at 1427 Ernest Street: Ching asked for statistics on HFD responses to 1427 Ernest Street. Captain Goh reported HFD responded seven times in the past month for nuisance alarms, has spoken with the building manager repeatedly, and has referred the building to HFD’s code central team; however, HFD’s enforcement is limited to issuing notices of violation.
3. Fire Extinguishers and Lithium-Ion Fires: Eberhardt asked whether standard condominium fire extinguishers are effective on lithium-ion battery fires, or whether large condominiums should keep a foam or blanket-type product. Captain Goh said building extinguishers are typically rated 2-A:10-BC for electrical fires and may control a small lithium-ion fire but are not specifically rated for it; residents should call HFD right away, even if the fire appears to be out.
4. Evacuation Assistance Lists and Evacuation Plans: Kirchmann, a resident manager of a nearby building, asked whether HFD requests that lists of residents needing evacuation assistance be updated every six months, and whether HFD can help create a building evacuation plan. Captain Goh said updated lists are helpful, HFD cannot prepare plans due to liability, and he would request resources from the Fire Prevention Bureau to share at the next meeting along with the lithium-ion statistics.
5. Evacuating Seniors During Elevator Outages: Mitchell asked whether the City has considered placing seniors in hotels when elevators in senior housing are out for months, as he said the landlord-tenant code requires it, and how wheelchair users would be brought down. Captain Goh said HFD would physically carry people down when there is an immediate threat to life safety, but hotel accommodations are beyond HFD’s scope. Kirchmann added that the American Red Cross may offer vouchers for food, clothing, and lodging to those displaced from their homes. Chair Char said the matter would be raised with the Mayor’s Representative and Councilmembers’ offices.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD), Continued – [0:30:20]

Questions, comments, and concerns – [0:30:20]
1. Improvements Near Lower Makiki Bars: Depicolzuane thanked HPD for dramatic improvements in lower Makiki around Tipsy Pig and two other bars, noting she has not heard concerns from residents lately, although young men were recently seen drinking outside a bar and residents have previously called the Liquor Commission. Sergeant Morris credited the night watch officers.
2. No Parking Signage on Makiki Heights Drive: Resident Richard King followed up on the station wagon that resident Gilbert mentioned earlier, stating HPD told him little can be done because there are no “No Parking” signs where the vehicle parks in the dirt, and asked how to have signs installed. Kirby noted Makiki Heights Drive is a City street under DTS, but the off-street area may belong to a separate parcel. The area was identified as State Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) land, and the question was referred to the Governor’s Representative.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [0:34:43]: Michele Harman reported the following:
● Main Break: One 4-inch main break occurred on Piʻikoi Street on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
● Imagine a Day Without Water 2026: BWS, in partnership with more than 25 organizations, will host the free event on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the Ark of Safety at Waiʻanae Mall.
○ Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KvxvHMYjNrdiQ3zINplcoyhav2DsahZn/view
● Kalawahine Project Questions: BWS received questions from Member Fujinaka and is preparing responses for the Board, which will also be shared with Councilmember Nishimoto.
● September 2026 Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1A-fSlpwrDoQpyhlAHRVWCHBE2XPUwPv/view

Questions, comments, and concerns – [0:36:28]
1. Thanks for Water Shutoff Assistance: Resident Claire Santos thanked BWS for shutting off water at the street when her building’s main valve failed, and for restoring service only seven minutes behind schedule despite responding to a main break the same day. Harman said she would pass on the thanks.
2. Pensacola Street Project Completion: Eberhardt asked when Pensacola Street, from Wilder Avenue down through Kīnau Street, will be completed, noting traffic on Kīnau Street is reduced from three lanes to one and completion was expected in September 2026. Harman said a comprehensive update answering Member Fujinaka’s questions will be emailed to Chair Char and the Councilmember and presented at the next meeting if possible.
3. ʻAuwaiolimu Street Repaving: Resident Wendy Tolleson asked whether BWS coordinates with the City to repave ʻAuwaiolimu Street, which has been excavated for BWS infrastructure work for years and has deteriorated. Harman said she would follow up.

Member Gallant joined at 6:38 p.m.; 13 members present.

4. ELECTED OFFICIAL REPORTS – [0:40:18]

Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [0:40:18]: Deputy Director Johnson submitted a written report to Chair Char responding to questions from the August 2026 meeting and shared the Mayor’s September 2026 newsletter, which highlights the City’s response to the recent storms and how residents can prepare for the next natural disaster.
• September 2026 Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gMMQ0WH3ljpFNL-EFGceGd-aIzDzV2Mr/view
• September 2026 Newsletter: https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/september-mayors-highlights-newsletter/

Questions, comments, and concerns – [0:41:09]
1. Hazardous Sign on South King Street and the Department of Planning and Permitting’s (DPP) Responsiveness: Depicolzuane thanked Kate of Representative Iwamoto’s office and Jared of Councilmember Nishimoto’s office for helping address a large cracked sign hanging over the sidewalk at 1254 South King Street, between Tipsy Pig and Namaka Preschool, after Tropical Storm Lala. She asked that the City improve DPP’s responsiveness to hazards, noting her repeated calls, emails, portal submissions, and 311 reports received no response and the owner could not get an electrician until Tuesday, September 29, 2026. Deputy Director Johnson said she would relay the comments and recommendations.
2. Summary of Written Responses: Kawano asked for a synopsis of the written responses to last month’s questions. Deputy Director Johnson highlighted the following:
○ Route 123 Extension: DTS is planning bus-rail integration for the opening of Skyline Segment 3, tentatively scheduled for passenger service in 2031, and is evaluating most urban Honolulu routes, including Route 123 (Papakōlea/Pacific Heights), for connections to future stations. DTS will not modify Route 123 at this time and will contact the Board when proposals are ready for public feedback. Oʻahu Transit Services (OTS) is also experiencing a bus operator shortage and is accepting applications at www.thebus.com.
○ Four-Way Stop at Anapuni Street and Dominis Street: DTS is still investigating and will inform the Board of the results.
○ Five-Way Intersection Flashing Stop Signs: The flashing stop signs at ʻIolani Avenue, Prospect Street, and Alapaʻi Street are tentatively scheduled for installation on Thursday, September 24, 2026.
○ Chair Char noted that all materials he receives are posted on the Google Drive link listed on the agenda.
3. No Parking Signage on Makiki Heights Drive (Follow-Up): Chair Char asked Deputy Director Johnson about no parking signage on Makiki Heights Drive. A resident clarified that the area just past the BWS water tank is State property along Round Top Drive and offered to provide the parcel number, so the question was directed to the Governor’s Representative.
4. ʻAuwaiolimu Street Resurfacing and Restriping: Resident Richard Chan of Papakōlea continued to ask when the community can meet with the City regarding restriping of ʻAuwaiolimu Street, noting that additional repairs may push back resurfacing.
5. Senior Housing Elevator Outages: Mitchell asked the Mayor to look into how residents of senior housing with months-long elevator outages will be accommodated, noting they need medication and doctor’s appointments and there are too few elevator technicians locally. Deputy Director Johnson said she would request a response before the next meeting.
6. Illegal Parking and Encampments on ʻIolani Avenue: Ching reported illegal parking in no-parking zones along ʻIolani Avenue and Magellan Avenue, overnight homeless camping, and an encampment at an abandoned property at 540 ʻIolani Avenue. Noting HPD’s staffing limits, he asked whether the City could outsource parking enforcement to a private company or use photo-based ticketing. Deputy Director Johnson said she would pose the question to HPD and other City agencies.

Councilmember Scott Nishimoto (District 5) – [0:54:29]: Taylor Date reported the following:
● Community Park Cleanups: Hosted with the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR): Sunday, September 27, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Ala Wai Community Park near the playground by Ala Wai Elementary School; and Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Ala Moana Beach Park near the tennis courts.
● Makiki Cleanup Partnership: The office would like to partner with the Board on a Makiki park cleanup in the coming months. Chair Char agreed and will coordinate a date.

Questions, comments, and concerns – [0:57:41]
1. Trash Beyond Parks: Depicolzuane asked that cleanups extend beyond parks to schools and other areas with heavy trash, noting she has picked up trash twice a week for five years. Date said cleanups are coordinated with DPR and typically include surrounding sidewalks; expanding would require the office to acquire its own materials and address safety and liability, which it will look into.

Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam (District 6) – [0:58:01]: No representative was present at this time.
Governor Josh Green’s Representative – [0:58:19]: Russell Pang reported the following:
● Governor’s September 2026 Newsletter: The newsletter, sent to Chair Char, describes State recovery efforts with the counties, first responders, and partner organizations following the recent storms.
● SNAP Replacement Benefits: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients who lost food due to storm-related power outages or home damage are eligible for replacement benefits. Following federal approval, deadlines were extended to Wednesday, September 23, 2026, for Tropical Cyclone Lala and Monday, September 28, 2026, for Hurricane Lowell. Information: humanservices.hawaii.gov or the Public Assistance Information Line at 1-855-643-1643.
● Aloha Tower Centennial: Aloha Tower’s 100th anniversary was Friday, September 11, 2026; due to ongoing renovations and painting, celebration activities are scheduled for Thursday, October 15, 2026 and Friday, October 16, 2026.
● September 2026 Report:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eRhHcAGcgF68C2BR-PBNi0aAeoQNZCBG/view

Questions, comments, and concerns – [1:01:44]
1. Disruptive Individual Parked on State Land off Makiki Heights Drive: Pang asked for clarification of the earlier question. Resident Richard King explained that a person has parked just past the water tank, where State property begins, almost daily for about a year, verbally assaults passersby, and that HPD says it cannot enforce without no-parking signs. Resident Erin Gilbert added that her constant profanity is a serious noise problem for neighbors. Pang requested the tax map key (TMK) number and said he would look into it.
2. Makiki Ditch Maintenance and Mosquitoes: Resident Wendy Tolleson stated the State owns Makiki Ditch except where it runs under City roads, and that although it was recently cleaned, it holds two to three inches of standing water, vegetation is regrowing, and mosquitoes are returning. She asked for more frequent maintenance than once a year, identifying the poorly draining open section from just Leeward of a condominium, under Keʻeaumoku Street in front of Makiki Towers and the Korean Methodist Church, to the next covered section before it emerges near Anapuni Street. Pang said he would ask DLNR.
3. Advance Distribution of Reports: Eberhardt asked that the Governor’s report be provided by the Monday or Tuesday before Thursday meetings so volunteer members can review it. Pang acknowledged the request.
4. Major Hurricane Preparedness: Kawano asked what the State plans to do if a Category 3 hurricane comes directly through Oʻahu. Pang suggested inviting the Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) to address the topic.
5. Mobile Public Restrooms: Depicolzuane asked why Honolulu cannot provide mobile toilets as other cities, such as New York, have done. Pang said he would pass the question to Deputy Director Johnson.
6. H-1 Overpass Paving and Punahou Street/Nehoa Street Intersection: Kawano asked for an update on paving of the Ward Avenue overpass. Pang said the H-1 rehabilitation, which includes guardrail, lighting, and electrical improvements and repaving of overpasses and some ramps, continues; before the storms, crews were working from the Canal Street off-ramp toward the Kapiʻolani Boulevard on-ramp before turning to the westbound side. Storm preparation and recovery delayed some work, and he will seek a more definite timetable for the Ward Avenue and Keʻeaumoku Street overpasses. Kawano also asked about pavement at the Punahou Street and Nehoa Street intersection near Punahou School; Pang said he would pass it to Deputy Director Johnson as a City intersection.
7. Illegal U-Turns on Punahou Street: Chair Char asked whether the State could study the number of drivers making illegal U-turns on Punahou Street to reach the freeway on-ramp, where a moped rider was killed a few months ago. Pang said the State installed stanchions to prevent left turns onto the on-ramp, drivers can instead turn right onto Alexander Street to reach the freeway, and he would check whether crews are monitoring the area.
8. State Plans for Elevator Outages: Mitchell asked whether the Governor has a plan for residents of State and private senior housing and condominiums with months-long elevator outages during a major storm, such as using the National Guard to deliver food or evacuate residents, seeking federal funds for hotels, or bringing in elevator mechanics from the mainland, noting the landlord-tenant code requirement. Pang said he would forward the question to the Governor’s office and other appropriate agencies.

State Senator Carol Fukunaga (District 11) – [1:15:56]: Senator Fukunaga highlighted that her office is partnering with Hawaiʻi Association of Condominium Associations on condominium governance trainings on Saturday, October 17, 2026 and Saturday, October 24, 2026. Many condominiums governance concerns have prompted legislation to be proposed in 2027, and residents with concerns were encouraged to attend.
• September 14, 2026 Memorandum: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1W3Mye4hF0vr59iBLgjCQ5rTjMFd0qpv7/view
• Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Mng9YqNQjof_f63Xjs2qxDcEuv2kcyI8/view

Questions, comments, and concerns – [1:16:54]
1. Training Session Format: Lee thanked Senator Fukunaga for championing condominium owners, especially kūpuna, and asked whether there are two separate sessions. Senator Fukunaga said there are two separate sessions focused on condominium board members, featuring attorneys experienced in condominium matters: the first, on Saturday, October 17, 2026, will address owners’ rights and where association money goes, and the second will address dispute resolution.
2. Session Times: Ching asked about session times. Senator Fukunaga said both run from morning into the afternoon and she will provide details to the Board.
3. Recording of Sessions: Kawano asked whether the sessions will be available online. Senator Fukunaga said no, as they are in-person sessions with live Q&A at a rented facility; residents may contact the organizers directly, and a recorded follow-up session at the State Capitol auditorium may be organized if demand is high.
4. Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac Condominium Lending Rules: Mitchell raised concerns that new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac rules assessing condominium association reserves could prevent buyers from obtaining bank loans in older buildings, which are common in Makiki, and asked for legislation addressing insurance. Senator Fukunaga said she and Senator McKelvey requested an update from the Insurance Commissioner on a program instituted last year, noting insurance costs and availability affect financing, and will follow up through legislation or the Insurance Division.
5. Mānoa Stream Gauge Alert: Resident Laura Ruby asked about an email alert reporting a 5.5-foot reading at the Woodlawn bridge gauge in Mānoa, and whether the storm was that severe. Senator Fukunaga said the Be Ready Mānoa website dashboard shows stream heights, and sediment clearing by the State Department of Transportation (HDOT) and City Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) has helped; a 4-foot level is not too concerning, but 8 feet would be.

Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam (District 6) – [1:23:39]: Robin Henski reported the following:
● Proposed Litter Pickup Ordinance: Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam hopes to introduce legislation designating a specific City department, either the Department of Environmental Services (ENV) or DFM, to remove trash that lingers in public rights-of-way, including sidewalks. The draft language has been sent to the departments for feedback.
● DoHo Night Market: Friday, September 18, 2026, Downtown Honolulu.
● Follow-Up on Board Requests: Requests from Members Fujinaka and Kirchmann regarding lighting at Makiki District Park, a dilapidated stairway near ʻIolani Avenue, and lack of grass at the Department of Education Community Park were submitted; the only response so far concerns the park, which DPR referred to DFM.
● September 2026 Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IfxqG0AvHDQXWanAlYMGYclyZF8IDSnF/view

Questions, comments, and concerns – [1:26:04]
1. Eminent Domain Exemption for HART: Eberhardt asked for the Councilmember’s stance on Council legislation allowing the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) to expedite the eminent domain process, which passed three readings, expressing concern about one agency bypassing a long-standing process. Henski said she would provide an official response at the next meeting.

State Representative Della Au Belatti (District 26) – [1:27:24]: No representative present.

State Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto (District 25) – [1:27:34]: No representative present.

State Representative Andrew Garrett (District 22) – [1:27:45]: No representative present.

5. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS – [1:27:56]

Surface Flooding and Stream Overtopping Mapping – [1:28:34]: Resident Laura Ruby invited residents living near Makiki Stream and its tributaries to identify locations of surface flooding and riverine overtopping by circling them on a map and suggesting improvements, with a focus on mitigation before events occur rather than remediation afterward. She offered to share the work completed for Kānewai Field and Kolowalu Road as part of a bottom-up approach to the Ala Wai watershed.

Oʻahu Resilience Hub Learning Community – [1:30:36]: Sage Murakami, who presented to the Board in February 2026, provided an update on the Oʻahu Resilience Hub Learning Community, a program of the Kapiʻolani Community College CERENE (Community Engagement for Resilient Neighborhoods) Lab co-coordinated with the Lāʻie nonprofit Lāhui Foundation and funded by the City Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency (CCSR). The program supports coordinated learning and best practices for community resilience hubs and has membership open to local hubs. Upcoming trainings include first aid through the American Red Cross and a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) emergency management training.

6. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS – [1:33:06]

Approval of Written Summary for Video Record: Thursday, August 20, 2026 – [1:33:06]: NCO reported two corrections submitted by Kawano: on page 2, item 12, and on page 6, item 2, the questions attributed to Member Kawano should be attributed to Member Ching.

Hearing no objections, the Thursday, August 20, 2026 written summary was APPROVED as corrected by unanimous consent; 13-0-0 (Aye: Char, Ching, Dela Cruz, Depicolzuane, Eberhardt, Gallant, Kawano, Kirby, Kirchmann, Lee, Mitchell, Salassa, Steelquist. Nay: None. Abstain: None.) – [1:34:24].

Stormwater Project Presentation – [1:34:24]: Cyrus Howe, Operations Manager of Hawaiʻi Green Growth, reported the following:
● Follow the Drop: A project sponsored by the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation that provides free rainwater assessments to residents across the Ala Wai watershed, which spans from Diamond Head to Punchbowl and from the Koʻolau ridgetops to the reefs past Waikīkī and Ala Moana, including Makiki. Residents may schedule an assessment online.
● Rain Barrels: After more than 100 assessments in 2024, the project began installing rain barrels upcycled through Keep It Simple Kaimukī. Gilbert, property manager at Mokulani on Keʻeaumoku Street, installed a gutter on a storage shed to harvest rain for the community garden. A grant awarded this month will provide 100 free rain barrels to residents across the watershed, contributing to the Million Gallon Project.
● Rain Barrel Drawing: Anyone who signs up for an assessment this calendar year will be entered for a chance to win a one-of-a-kind rain barrel painted by Mari Izumi.
● Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KQyEBPFf3yQ4qvmB7CRj5ZXnwSH8M3Cw/view

Questions, comments, and concerns – [1:38:50]
1. Condominium Eligibility: Kawano asked whether condominiums qualify. Howe confirmed they do, citing Mokulani in Makiki, though it requires more coordination with the association and property management than a single household.
2. ʻIolani School Project: Resident Laura Ruby noted the presentation did not include the ʻIolani School rain barrel project. Howe acknowledged it as another green stormwater project the organization is proud of.
3. Extent of the Ala Wai Watershed: Steelquist noted the Ala Wai watershed includes not only Makiki Stream but also Mānoa and Pālolo Streams, extending well beyond Makiki.

Bill 7 Project at 1441 Liholiho Presentation and Discussion – [1:40:41]

Due to no objections, a recess was called at [1:41:04] to set up the presentation; the meeting resumed at [1:43:25].

Taeyong Kim of Environmental Communications, planning consultant to 1441 Liholiho LLC, reported the following:
● Project Site: A vacant, mid-block 7,800-square-foot lot at 1441 Liholiho Street, formerly containing two single-family dwellings that have been demolished, located between a three-story building and a seven-story apartment building, with a 12-story building two parcels away. The site is zoned A-2 apartment district (mid-rise apartments) with a 40-foot height limit.
● Proposed Building: 39 units on three residential floors (10 studios and three one-bedroom units per floor), with parking and support areas on the first level, 18 parking stalls (though parking is no longer required in the Primary Urban Center), an elevator, stairways at each end, and a community laundry room on each floor.
● Affordability and Financing: The project is workforce rental housing with rents capped at 80% of area median income (AMI). It can be built without further approvals, but is being presented to the Board because it is considering the new Mixed-Income Rental Program fund administered by the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC).

Questions, comments, and concerns – [1:50:35]
1. AMI Minimum, Parking, and Unit Sizes: Kirby asked the minimum AMI, whether parking will be sold or rented, and the average unit sizes. Kim said the minimum has not been determined, parking will be rented, studios will be 256 square feet, and one-bedroom units will range from 355 and 377 up to 425 square feet.
2. On-Site Management: Kirchmann asked whether there will be an on-site manager, noting the importance of someone on site when fire alarms activate. Kim said no on-site manager is planned, but 24-hour off-site management will be provided, and he would relay the concern to the development team.
3. Long-Term Management and Neighborhood Recourse: Lee thanked Kim for presenting and confirmed the project is a Bill 7 (Ordinance 19-8) project by an affiliate of Lam Capital (Paul Lam’s group). He asked who will ensure the property remains maintained, safely managed, and affordable, and what recourse neighbors and the City will have. Kim said affordability must follow State and county regulations for a commitment period of 15 or 30 years, the owner is responsible for management and is the first point of contact for complaints, significant issues should be reported to police, and the property manager will be Savio Realty. Kim introduced Brian Fujiwara, Project Architect, and agreed to email the slides and contact information to the Board.
4. Affordability Period and Sale of Units: Eberhardt asked about the fixed-rent period. Kim said the property must remain affordable at 80% AMI for its 15-or-30-year commitment, with rents able to change as affordability indexes are updated annually, and confirmed units may be sold after the commitment period without repaying some of the upfront financing.
5. Rent at 80% AMI: Chair Char asked the monthly rent at 80% AMI for a 256-square-foot unit. Kim said 80% AMI is about $86,000 in income for one person and $98,000 for two, and the rent cap would be about $2,100 on the high end.
6. Family-Sized Housing: Kirchmann asked what market research supports such small units, expressing concern that new buildings target single people rather than families who need two- and three-bedroom units. Kim said the project is envisioned as beginning workforce housing for singles and young couples, who would likely move to larger housing as their incomes and family needs change.
7. Subsidies: Lee asked whether any units will be subsidized. Kim said he did not believe so.
8. Utilities: Eberhardt asked whether utilities will be metered by unit. Kim said utilities will not be separately metered and are included in the rent.
9. Section 8 Tenants and 1427 Ernest Street: Ching asked whether the project will house Section 8 tenants, as at 1427 Ernest Street. Kim said no one may discriminate against Section 8 applicants, but the project is not intended for Section 8, and the property manager will select the most qualified tenants. Ching described drug dealing, prostitution, police activity, and seven false fire alarms last month at 1427 Ernest Street, Lam Capital’s first project, and urged Kim to address management issues with Savio Realty.
10. Water and Sewer Capacity: Kirby asked whether BWS and sewer capacity were reviewed for the added residents. Kim said the project has received its approvals for wastewater and water connections.
11. Construction Contact Number: Chair Char asked for a contact number neighbors can call regarding construction problems. Kim said he would obtain one, noting construction must follow Department of Health (DOH) community noise standards and DTS construction standards, and that 311 can address construction issues.
12. Construction Timeline and Air Conditioning: A resident, Richard, asked when construction will start and whether central air conditioning will be provided given the 40-foot height limit. Kim said the project is in the proposal phase with no permits yet, and units will have packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC) units rather than central air conditioning.
13. Developer Structure, Permitting, Green Space, Rents, and Financing: Resident Michele Luke of 670 Prospect Street asked whether 1441 Liholiho LLC is a single-purpose entity, the permit status, whether green space is planned, target rents, and whether the financing is gap funding. Kim believed it is a single-purpose entity, as is typical for developments. Fujiwara said plans are in process at DPP and close to final. Luke noted that 1617 Alapaʻi Street, another Lam Capital project, changed from including parking to no parking. Kim said only landscaping required by zoning will be provided within setbacks, the 80% AMI figures are maximums and the developer intends to charge below them, and the new HHFDC program, less than a year old, provides developers slightly lower construction borrowing costs.
14. Community Impact of Bill 7 Projects: Kirchmann clarified that Kim is a planning consultant rather than a company employee, thanked him for presenting transparently, and explained that the community has dealt with many issues from Bill 7 projects producing small, expensive units. Kim said he would pass the comments on.
15. Rent Range and 1427 Ernest Street Concerns: Kawano asked the rent range. Kim said the caps at 80% AMI are about $2,100 for a studio and $2,300 for a one-bedroom, with actual rents not yet set but expected to be lower. Kawano described ongoing problems at 1427 Ernest Street, which has operated for about three years, and urged that affordable housing be managed in a socially responsible way. Kim said comments will be conveyed to HHFDC, which encourages robust community engagement.

Discussion on Redevelopment of 1420 Wilder Avenue – [2:16:42]: Steven Lam (not related to Lam Capital), part of the team working at 1420 Wilder Avenue, reported that crews have been repairing the older building, including wooden railings damaged during recent storms that fell onto residents’ cars, and that weekend work to address the damage disturbed neighbors. He apologized and said crews have been instructed not to work late or make noise on weekends.

Questions, comments, and concerns – [2:19:00]
1. Rents After Renovation: Chair Char asked what rents will be after renovation. Lam said most current residents will be able to remain at or slightly above their current rents; rents have not been set, but are meant to be affordable.
2. Role, Permits, and Noise Variances: Resident Wendy Tolleson said she understood the owner to be Kai Hawaiʻi Associates LLC, asked about Lam’s role, and stated the project lacks building permits and noise variances and neighbors were never notified of seven-day-a-week work. Lam said an architect is involved and making the proper recommendations, and that work on vacant units to prepare them for rental may not require a permit.
3. Support for Keeping Residents in Place: Lee confirmed the property is owned by Mr. Tanaka, expressed empathy for affected neighbors, and said the approach of keeping residents without displacement and maintaining affordable rents makes sense; he encouraged continued updates to the Board. Lam again apologized for the noise and said work hours are being restricted.
4. 24/7 Point of Contact: Tom Heinrich, speaking in his individual capacity, asked whether there is a single point of contact or hotline available 24/7 for neighbors.
5. Clarification of Role: Resident Wendy Tolleson noted the property manager ignores neighbors and asked again what Lam’s team does, concluding that they are the contractors. Chair Char cut the discussion short in the interest of time, asked Lam to share his contact information, and said more discussion will follow at a future meeting.

Follow-up on 2059 Keʻeaumoku Street Issues – [2:26:59]: Chair Char noted the Mayor’s Representative’s written report indicated the City found no issues, and offered to relay further concerns to Deputy Director Johnson. A resident reported receiving an email from Senator Fukunaga’s office regarding a property under construction nearby, and that online license checks for the contractors on that property (Pro Building Hawaiʻi) and on the house next to 2059 Keʻeaumoku Street (Pro Build Hawaiʻi) showed they are not in good standing.

Candidate Forum Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) Report – [2:28:42]: Chair Char presented the PIG report:
● Format: The candidate forum will be held during a recess at 7:00 p.m. at the Thursday, October 15, 2026 meeting, running until about 8:15 p.m. Candidates will receive the three questions in advance and have two minutes for an introduction, two minutes to answer each question, and two minutes for closing remarks, based on the 2022 and 2024 forums. The Chair noted that the Board will adopt the report at the next meeting, followed by the recess and forum.

Questions, comments, and concerns – [2:30:06]
1. Invited Candidates: A member asked who is being invited. Chair Char said six candidates: House District 23 (Representative Ikaika Olds and his Republican opponent), House District 26 (Ian Ross and Tony Silva), and City Council District 6 (Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam and his opponent).
2. Broadcast: A member asked whether the forum will be televised. Chair Char said it will be recorded by NCO.

Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) – [2:31:22]: Kirchmann reported the Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) discussed the company that operates parking meters on the island. He submitted a proposal for the vacant City-owned lot at 1421 Pensacola Street, near the freeway, to be considered for parking to serve the Bill 7 building, surrounding buildings, the bus stop across the street, and nearby businesses; the CAC said it would consider it.

7. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:33:02]

Recognition of Tom Heinrich – [2:33:02]: Lee recognized Tom Heinrich, a “walking encyclopedia,” for his knowledge, patience, and aloha in supporting the Board, the neighborhood boards, and the Neighborhood Commission, noting this is likely his last Board meeting in person. Heinrich thanked the Board and said he plans to participate remotely while traveling and will continue projects with the Neighborhood Commission and the Charter Commission.

Next Regular Meeting – [2:35:08]: The Makiki/Lower Punchbowl/Tantalus Neighborhood Board No. 10 is scheduled to meet on Thursday, October 15, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at Makiki District Park (Old Makiki Community Library, 2nd Floor) and online via Webex.

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.

8. ADJOURNMENT – [2:35:26]: Chair Char adjourned the meeting at 8:35 p.m.

Submitted by: Kelly Nakamura, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Rachel Cristobal, Neighborhood Assistant, 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.