NU‘UANU – PUNCHBOWL NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 12

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2025
7:00 P.M.
Video-Teleconference: The Board will be making a good-faith effort to provide the public with the opportunity to observe the meeting as it happens and an opportunity to provide oral testimony without a physical presence in the physical meeting room, in accordance with the Governor’s Eighth Supplementary Proclamation, Related to the COVID-19 Emergency. Please ensure that your computer or phone is muted unless you are speaking.

Please join us by Webex
Meeting link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=mc7a7040282033e0d2de2bc5b0070f6b9
Meeting number/Access code: 2497 187 9026
Password: NB12 (6212 from phones and video systems)
Join by phone: +1-408-418-9388 United States Toll

Physical location: Kapālama Hale 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Room 153, Honolulu, HI 96817
*This is an alternative meeting location open to public participation.

Board Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Th_r5SpEofyVf6k1XoeuiP9z_Xfa77xN
Board Meeting Recordings: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice/search?query=nuuanu

Rules of Speaking: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to raise his/her hand, and when recognized by the Chair, to address comments to the Chair. Our public and elected officials giving reports are encouraged to keep their comments to less than three (3) minutes, board member’s comments limited to two minutes for each order of business, presenters are limited to 10 (ten) minutes for the presentation portion and community member input is limited to two (2) minutes per participant. Please silence all electronic devices.
Note: The Board may take action on any agenda item. As required by the State Sunshine Law (HRS Ch. 92), specific issues not noted on this agenda cannot be voted on, unless added to the agenda. A two-thirds (2/3) vote (10) of this 15-member Board is needed to add an item to the agenda. Adding an item to the agenda, however, is not permitted if (1) the item to be added is of reasonably major importance and (2) action on the item by the board will affect a significant number of persons. Determination of whether a specific matter may be added to an agenda must be done on a case-by-case basis.

I. CALL TO ORDER – Rae Gee, Chair

II. ROLL CALL – Neighborhood Assistant Zhoydell Magaoay

III. STATUS REPORTS – Three (3) minutes maximum, questions to follow.
Reports can be found on the board’s shared drive: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1QnIhVUNdpm1vMZy0Db7cs-CX5PM9M5JH
A. Honolulu Fire Department (HFD)
B. Honolulu Police Department (HPD)
1. District 1 Report – Central Oʻahu (Downtown Honolulu, Liliha Street (below School Street)., Punahou Street (Roundtop Drive – Ala Moana Beach & Aloha Tower, & Pali Highway))
2. District 5 Report – Kalihi (Āliamanu to the Pali Highway (west to east) and from the rim of the Koʻolau Range to the central southeastern shoreline of Oahu.)
C. Neighborhood Security Watch Report – Paula Kurashige
D. Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Jimmy Yanos
1. Dowsett Water Improvements Project update

IV. BOARD VACANCIES – Subdistrict 1 (Punchbowl) Invitation to the public to serve and call for candidates to volunteer.
A. There are four (4) vacant positions for Subdistrict 1 (Punchbowl). Appointment is through June 2027, three minutes per candidate.

V. REPORTS FROM NON-BOARD EVENTS – Brief announcements by board members and the public on events, activities and general information directly relating to the Nuʻuanu – Punchbowl neighborhood areas.
A. Papakōlea Community Updates – Mike Lum
B. Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization Statewide Transportation Project Updates – R. Gee

VI. RESIDENTS’/COMMUNITY CONCERNS – Limited to three (3) minutes each.
A. Peer-to-Peer Car Sharing issues with speeding, transients, parking issues on Henry St. & neighbors personal restricted parking signs – Jill Easley
B. Nuʻuanu Valley Park – Requests to DPR to: (1) change the Parkʻs “walking path” lights; (2) Hau Tree Trimming (the hau tree is overgrown and possible harboring of persons doing illegal activity); (3) The Parkʻs parking lot light bulbs for safety need to be brighter; and, (4) the canopy of the monkey pod tree within the parking lot needs trimming. – resident Mike Ellis

VII. OFFICIAL’S REPORTS- Limited to five (5) minutes each, reports should relate to issues of interest to residents of the Nuʻuanu and Punchbowl areas.
A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – Kim Hashiro
B. Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam – Lisa Leonardo
C. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – Kayla Setzler
D. District 13 Senator Karl Rhoads
E. District 27 Representative Jenna Takenouchi
F. Federal Elected Officers & Other Elected Officials

VIII. MEETING MINUTES
A. Approval of the draft Tuesday, October 21, 2025 meeting minutes.

IX. PRESENTATIONS – Ten (10) minutes per speaker. Questions to follow. Discussion or action as needed.

X. BOARD BUSINESS – For discussion/action. Five (5) minutes per item.
A. Update on the Pali Highway Transportation Projects – Ryan Nakata, Department of Transportation (DOT)
i. Wood Street Crosswalk Noise Issue Update -resident Mark Oyama
ii. DOT Noise Study of Other Pali Highway Crosswalks Update – resident Mark Oyama
iii. DOT Traffic Delineators & the potential switch to a different type of material.
iv. 2024 Pali Highway Resurfacing Project Update – ADA sidewalks compliance assessment.
v. Speed Cameras Project Update request made by resident L. Motoyama.
B. Punchbowl Cesspools Projects Update – Mike Lum
C. Annual In-Person Board Meeting – Request for an in-person board meeting once during the year; select a date and location.

XI. ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. Next Regular Board Meeting- The Nu’uanu-Punchbowl Neighborhood Board No. 12 will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. Please note that the Board will be in recess during December 2025.

XII. 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 Email nco@honolulu.gov. Agendas and minutes are also available on the internet at www.honolulu.gov/nco

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

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

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2025 at 7:00 P.M.
KAPĀLAMA HALE CONFERENCE ROOM 153 – 925 DILLINGHAM BOULEVARD, HONOLULU, HI, 96817 AND VIA WEBEX TELECONFERENCING
Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7GfRg71fjI
Reports & other meeting materials can be found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1Th_r5SpEofyVf6k1XoeuiP9z_Xfa77xN
CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:16]
Chair Gee called the Nuʻuanu-Punchbowl Neighborhood Board No. 12 meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Quorum was established with nine (9) members present. Note: This 15-member Board requires eight (8) members to establish quorum and to take official board action.
Members Present: Rae Gee, Jill Easley Allen, Kathy Grebe, Audrey Hidano, Paula Kurashige, Michael Lum, Larry Smith, Patrick Smith, Sylvia Young
Members Absent: Mason Aiona, Kaulana Lee
Guests: Captain Anthony Villalon (Honolulu Fire Department – HFD); Sergeant Troy Stewart (Honolulu Police Department – HPD District 1); Sergeant Edward Tabanera, Lieutenant Creighton Hatico (Honolulu Police Department – HPD District 5); Director Kim Hashiro (Mayor’s Representative); Lisa Leonardo (Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam’s Office);Jimmy Yanos (Board of Water Supply – BWS); Ashton Stallings (Governor’s Representative); Edith Njuafack Dees (Senator Karl Rhoads’ Representative); Jenna Takenouchi (State Representative District 27); Shane Visitacion (Network Connex); Joseph Chu, Leimomi Motoyama, Mark Oyama, Mike Ellis, Terrie Easley, Mel, Mike Buck, Rei, Cathy, (Guests/Residents); Zhoydell Magaoay (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible. There were approximately 31 total attendees.
CITY MONTHLY REPORTS – [0:02:03]
Honolulu Fire Department – [0:02:16]: Captain Villalon reported the following statistics for September 2025.
September 2025 Statistics: One (1) nuisance fire, three (3) activated alarms, 36 medicals, five (5) motor vehicle crashes, and one (1) mountain rescue.
Safety Tips: Captain Villalon provided safety tips for the holiday season, recommending fire-resistant, non-combustible decorations, underwriters laboratory approved electrical decorations, turning lights off before leaving home or going to bed, not overloading power strips or extension cords, never leaving candles unattended, and securing lighters and matches out of reach from children.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NmrU8C85XTqeMApejAE7gdH9LH-7Ac1Y/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:03:30]
1. Overgrown Grass Fire Hazard: Member Kurashige reported grass at 3217 Kāʻohinani Drive has grown as high as the house, creating a fire hazard. She asked if there was a community group that could help cut the grass and remove the straw. Captain Villalon acknowledged this as a real concern and stated he would follow up with the workgroup that checks on such issues and relay the information to them.
Honolulu Police Department District 1 – [0:06:06]: Sergeant Troy Stewart reported the following statistics: September 2025 Statistics: Three (3) motor vehicle thefts, two (2) burglaries, four (4) thefts, two (2) unauthorized entries into motor vehicles (UEMV), one (1) assault (down from six (6) in the previous month), three (3) drug cases (up from zero), and 24 motor vehicle collisions (down by one (1)). Total calls for service increased to 557, up from 532. Sergeant Stewart reported that uniform and plain clothes operations are ongoing, with officers saturating the area with visibility and conducting checks at parks and schools.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:07:49]
1. Free T-Shirts for Neighborhood Watch: Member Kurashige asked if District 1 was giving out free shirts for people who walk in Mānoa and whether the same could be done for the Nuʻuanu area. Sergeant Stewart stated he was not aware of any free shirts being given out in District 1 by Crime Prevention Team but would inquire about the situation with District 7.
2. Protest Safety Appreciation: Member Patrick Smith passed on thanks from the safety coordinator for the Saturday protest, who was a former police officer himself, for the outstanding job the police department and law officials did at the rally. Sergeant Stewart expressed appreciation for the feedback.
3. Speed Enforcement Campaign: Resident Joseph Chu asked if there were any speed enforcement campaigns upcoming for the holiday season on Pali Highway due to incredible speeds causing grief, heartache, traffic accidents, and fatalities. Sergeant Stewart explained that federal funded programs are ongoing where officers conduct five-hour shifts throughout the week for traffic enforcement including speeding. He noted that officers use speed lasers and also focus on distracted drivers using cell phones. Sergeant Stewart reported that two or three weeks ago, he and four (4) officers issued 19 citations for distracted driving in a five-hour period. He confirmed there are upcoming enforcement operations for their district, with two scheduled for next week.
Honolulu Police Department District 5 – [0:14:26]: Sergeant Tabanera reported the following statistics:
September 2025 Statistics: Zero (0) aggravated assaults (down from one (1)), zero (0) auto thefts (down from one (1)), one (1) burglary (down from two (2)), zero (0) robberies, zero (0) sex assault or rape cases, zero (0) simple assault cases (down from one (1)), five (5) thefts (down from seven (7)), and one (1) vehicle break-in (down from four (4)). Total calls for service decreased to 797, down from 843. Sergeant Tabanera reported that for the Pali Highway area covered by District 5, 249 citations were issued for basic speeding and 49 citations for excessive speeding in September 2025, not counting arrests for excessive speeding (over 30 mph above the limit or over 81 mph on freeways). He provided Halloween safety tips, recommending drivers be careful around neighborhoods with pedestrians and encouraging families to use lights, neon lights, or glow-in-the-dark sticks for visibility, especially in darker areas like Pali.
Lieutenant Creighton Hatico added that District 5 has overtime projects specifically addressing speeding on Pali Highway, resulting in numerous arrests for excessive speeding. He stated this enforcement will continue beyond federal funding as they work to clamp down on traffic fatalities and accidents.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:18:11]
1. Speeding Enforcement Appreciation: Member Kurashige thanked the officers for their work on speeding enforcement, noting it has been ongoing since 1998 when she first complained about vehicles traveling 57 mph outbound and 59 mph inbound on Pali Highway. She emphasized the danger at Wood Street crossing for pedestrians trying to reach the bus stop.
2. Homeless Pedestrians on Pali Highway: Member Easley Allen thanked the officers for working on speeding and expressed concern about homeless people walking on the side of Pali Highway late at night (around 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.), sometimes almost in the middle of the walkway, creating safety hazards. Lieutenant Hatico stated he would make sure officers are aware of the situation.
3. Specific Speeding Data Request: Resident Mike Ellis asked if the speeding reports could be more specific to the town bound lanes from Waokanaka Street to Wyllie Street area and going up the Pali is the residential district from Wyllie Street overpass to Waokanaka Street, which is posted at 30 mph. Lieutenant Hatico confirmed that enforcement is primarily focused on the residential area where officers can safely pull over and use laser equipment.
4. Resource Allocation Concerns: Resident Ellis questioned why officers are sometimes parked at Temple Emanu-El parking lot or Hawaiʻi Baptist Church area during daytime instead of patrolling. Lieutenant Hatico explained that officers need to stop to write reports during their shifts. Mr. Ellis expressed that he was referring to daytime observations.
5. Solo Bike Officer Shortage: Sergeant Tabanera addressed resource concerns, noting that District 5 currently has only 14 solo bike officers compared to 36 when he started in 2014. He clarified that for the specific beats 573 and 572 (Wyllie to Waokanaka area), 77 speeding citations and seven (7) excessive speeding citations were issued in September 2025.
6. Traffic Enforcement Visibility: Resident. Ellis acknowledged he was not against officers but noted he sees more officers on other highways (Kalanianaʻole, Makakilo, near Waikele area on the freeway) than on Pali Highway except for those that are parked.
7. School Zone Speed Limit: Member Kurashige requested that the 20-mph school zone speed limit be lowered to 15-mph before a child is killed, noting significant speeding above the school in the mornings.
Neighborhood Security Watch Report – [0:32:22]: Member Kurashige reported several incidents, including ongoing issues with vehicle license plate YAB 246 (now involving a woman as well). She expressed concerns about speeding on side streets in school zones where vehicles exceed the 20-mph limit, which she believes should be reduced to 15 mph. She emphasized the difficulty seniors face crossing Wood Street to catch the bus and noted the area’s inadequate bus service.
Board of Water Supply – [0:34:37]: Jimmy Yanos provided updates on the Puiwa and Dowsett Water Systems Improvements Project. Board of Water Supply recently received necessary approvals from the State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD). However, the project cannot move forward at this time because pending cathodic protection design changes must be resolved first. The team is actively working to address these design issues. Mr. Yanos reported only one main break in September that occurred on September 16, 2025, at 2414 Pauoa Road (6-inch diameter pipe). He announced that Board of Water Supply needs the public’s help to reduce water usage by 20% due to lower than normal rainfall and high-water demand. He provided water conservation tips including turning off taps while brushing teeth, shortening showers, using garden nozzles, and irrigating early in the morning.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1z9o10ATs7fpJZMf6zz1goTokhYOdS2YP/view?usp=drive_link
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lr6_RZBaGTFct4gj_Army-xCf0CEjpfT/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:36:33]
1. Cathodic Protection Design Changes: Member Hidano asked why the cathodic protection design changes issue is coming up now when the consultant hired should have checked everything from A to Z and made sure plans were 99% perfect at the beginning. Mr. Yanos stated he would take the question back to find out why it came up recently and would email the board with the answer.
BOARD VACANCIES – [0:38:30]
Chair Gee announced four (4) vacant positions in Subdistrict 1 (Punchbowl) and invited interested community members to apply. No volunteers came forward. Member Young suggested the board consider making Subdistrict 1 positions at-large seats if people from within that subdistrict cannot be recruited, noting that four (4) seats out of 15 significantly impacts quorum.
REPORTS FROM NON-BOARD EVENTS – [0:41:28]
Papakōlea Community Updates – [0:41:43]: Member Lum reported no updates, as he did not attend the Saturday, October 18, 2025 community meeting and Puni Kekauoha was not present to provide a report.
Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization – [0:42:05]: Chair Gee noted there was no report as the meeting was canceled.
RESIDENTS’/COMMUNITY CONCERNS – [0:42:29]
Overgrown Banyan Tree at 2502 Pacific Heights Road – [0:42:45]: Member Patrick Smith presented on behalf of Julia Duquette Porter, who could not attend due to work schedule limitations. He explained that the tree overhangs the road, electrical lines, and a bus stop, with dead branches creating safety concerns. The city has tried extensively to work with the property owner without success.
[0:44:27] – Member Patrick Smith MOVED and Member Grebe SECONDED that Chair Gee send a letter to the homeowner requesting (not demanding) that they take remedial action to prevent any hazards from their tree. Discussions followed. The Board conducted a voice vote; 9-0-0 (Aye: Gee, Grebe, Hidano, Kurashige, Lum, L. Smith, P. Smith, Young, Easley Allen; Nay: None; Abstain: None). The motion was ADOPTED [0:47:48].
Turo Peer-to-Peer Car Sharing on Henry Street – [0:47:59]: Member Easley Allen reported the issue has not been resolved and is still ongoing. She sees people working on cars in the middle of the street, and while there are fewer packed cars than in recent weeks, there are still many rental cars and transients coming into the neighborhood. Chair Gee noted she would research Turo’s contact information to potentially report the issue. Member Easley Allen also requested help identifying whether the residents are renters or owners so the actual property owner can be informed.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:50:29]
1. Prior Reporting: Member Patrick Smith recalled reporting previously that Turo is concerned about their public image and might take action if complaints are made directly to them, though this only works if the site being used is actually Turo. He also noted that property ownership can be checked through tax records, though homes owned in trusts make it difficult to discern the actual owner.
OFFICIALS’ REPORTS – [0:51:47]
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [0:51:52]: Director Kim Hashiro shared highlights from the October Mayor’s newsletter. Oahu and all of Hawaii said farewell to legendary musician Gabby Pahinui, who left a lasting impact on the island music scene. Newly inaugurated members of the Honolulu Ocean Safety Commission held their first meeting at Honolulu Hale. Mayor Blangiardi welcomed a Harvard Bloomberg City Hall Fellow to Oahu who will work for two years on housing and regulatory reform. The Honolulu Charter Commission is seeking input from island residents about potential amendments to the city’s governing document. Skyline Service expanded this month to four new stations including Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and Honolulu Airport.
Follow-up items from previous meetings:
• Additional evacuation routes near Nuʻuanu Elementary: The Department of Emergency Management (DEM) reviewed the suggestion to open roads near Nuʻuanu Elementary during emergencies to reduce traffic on Pali Highway. The recommendations will be shared with agencies working on traffic planning for future tsunami events (DEM, HPD, Department of Transportation Services (DTS), and State Department of Transportation (DOT). However, they noted that traffic control resources during tsunami evacuations are prioritized for areas close to the evacuation zone, and since this area is away from the hazard area, DEM will need to work with partner agencies to ensure recommendations don’t require resources more urgently needed elsewhere.
• Clearing overgrown vegetation near 2177 Pūowaina Drive: Director Hashiro corrected the address (Member Lum noted it should be 2077 Pūowaina Drive). DPPP’s investigation identified that the area falls under federal government jurisdiction, and the city has no jurisdiction there.
• Overgrown banyan tree at 2502 Pacific Heights Road: Four city departments (DPR, DPP, DTS, DFM) reviewed the issue. DPR’s arborist inspected the area earlier in the year, and a crew pruned the tree in April. They are not recommending additional pruning at this time. DPP did not see branches or leaves in the road or at the bus stop but referred the issue to DFM to evaluate. DTS reviewed and determined DPP would be the appropriate department.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aHzk0RPoE-vTvJXrSY0ik3uWRJYk6v8g/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:57:40]
1. Corrected Address: Member Lum corrected the Pūowaina Drive address from 2177 to 2077, explaining that 2177 is actually within the cemetery gates (federal jurisdiction).
2. Emergency Routes Clarification: Member Kurashige clarified that emergency vehicle access isn’t just for tsunamis but also for potential dam breaks and for parents to get their children home over the mountain.
3. Turo Investigation Status: Member Easley Allen asked if DPP is still investigating the Turo issue on Henry Street. Director Hashiro explained that DPP has been assigned to the case and has come out multiple times, but the inspector has not been able to see the activity on those particular days. She asked if Member Easley Allen had conversations directly with DPP. Member Easley Allen confirmed she pulled over when she saw someone investigating and it turned out to be DPP, but expressed shock that with the amount of movement happening, they don’t witness activity on any given day. Director Hashiro asked if there was a lot of activity when Member Easley Allen pulled over, and Member Easley Allen confirmed there were many cars parked on the street.
4. Mechanic Working in Street: Resident Terrie Easley reported witnessing a traveling mechanic at 2510 Henry Street (later corrected to 2610) laying on cardboard in the road with his legs outstretched, working on cars on both sides of the street. She called police, who told the mechanic to move. The officer said he was a traveling mechanic working on his car, but Ms. Easley clarified these were rental cars.
5. DPP Investigation History: Director Hashiro noted that DPP has gone out multiple times as this has been reported in numerous previous board meetings. She asked if Member Easley Allen had provided her phone number to make contact with the DPP inspector. Member Easley Allen confirmed she did not get the inspector’s name at that time but would look through her files. Director Hashiro asked why nothing resulted from the encounter where the inspector took many pictures of cars. She explained that DPP could not find any ads for renting cars at the location and therefore couldn’t establish a business was operating.
6. Turo vs. Generic Car Rental: Director Hashiro asked if Member Easley Allen was using “Turo” generically or had specific information that it was actually Turo. Member Easley Allen clarified she wasn’t the one who initially mentioned Turo (it may have been from Director Hashiro’s division during earlier research), and since ads can’t be found, it could be any platform. She noted there also appears to be a spinoff across the street with another rental operation parking cars there.
7. Previous Investigation: Director Hashiro reported that she had driven to the location when this first came up and saw cars parked on the street but no cars in the garage at 2510 Henry Street (later corrected to 2610), no activity around the house, and no one working on cars in the street.
8. Request to Reopen Case: Member Easley Allen requested the case be reopened as it’s still an ongoing problem. She expressed frustration that people watch others with suitcases arrive, cars speed up, and there are transients in the neighborhood, parking issues, and safety concerns. She noted a Jeep ran her off the road about a month and a half ago, and it was one of the rental cars being returned. Director Hashiro confirmed she could submit a request to DPP to keep the case open and have them work with Member Easley Allen if she’s willing to be contacted. Member Easley Allen agreed and suggested one person from DPP should be assigned to work with neighbors who can email photos and timestamps.
Chair Gee reported that Turo is currently the only registered peer-to-peer car sharing entity in Hawaii that pays taxes. Member Patrick Smith questioned whether the board could take action since the issue was listed under “Residents’/Community Concerns” rather than “Board Business,” but concluded that explicit inclusion on the agenda provided sufficient public notice under sunshine law. Member Young initially worried about specificity, though Member Easley Allen noted Turo had appeared in meeting minutes multiple times previously. The address was corrected to 2610 Henry Street.
[1:17:28] – Member Easley Allen MOVED and Member Kurashige SECONDED that she be the contact person for the board if DPP needs to reach out to address issues and open up communication regarding the peer-to-peer car sharing at 2610 Henry Street; The Board conducted a voice vote; 9-0-0 (Aye: Gee, Grebe, Hidano, Kurashige, Lum, L. Smith, P. Smith, Easley Allen, Young; Nay: None; Abstain: None). The motion was ADOPTED. [1:17:35]
Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam – [1:18:34]: Lisa Leonardo shared information from the October newsletter. Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam will continue to oppose Bill 54-25, which would raise monthly adult bus passes from $80 to $90, annual adult passes from $880 to $990, and seven-day passes from $35 to $45. He believes the city should make it easier for people to choose public transit, not more difficult. Bill 54 has been postponed for now. The councilmember also introduced Resolution 25-62 to eliminate the farebox recovery ratio, which requires transit to recover 25-30% of costs from fares (a target not met since 2016). The Department of Housing and Land Management completed acquisition of the former Central Pacific Bank Atherton branch at 222 North School Street, which will become the new permanent headquarters for the Department of Community Services (DCS).
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YUQ5H3B91Tg_zbxzOELoS-ZTx3sR-ssh/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:21:10]
1. School Zone Speed Limit: Member Kurashige requested the school zone speed limit be lowered from 20 mph to 15 mph before a child is killed, noting significant speeding above the school in the mornings.
2. Additional Streets for Speed Limit Reduction: Resident Mike Ellis suggested including Park Street, Puiwa Lane, and Puiwa Road (cross streets to Nuʻuanu Elementary) in the request for 15 mph speed limits.
3. Traffic Studies: Chair Gee asked if DTS could conduct traffic studies using meters to measure vehicle speeds on the roadways near the school. Ms. Leonardo stated she would first check if any recent studies (within the last year or two) exist, and if not, request they be conducted in the areas around the school.
4. Speed Limit Signs: Member Kurashige emphasized that according to city and police requirements, signs must be posted stating 20 mph from 2025, but no signs have been put up yet to get the limit lowered.
5. Councilmember’s Approach: Ms. Leonardo explained that the councilmember is aware of speeding concerns and was part of the vote to lower speeds to 20 mph. While he wants to reach 15 mph as requested, the process cannot go straight from 25 to 15 mph. He needs buy-in from everyone, so this is a goal he’s working toward that won’t happen immediately.
6. Traffic Study Purpose: Chair Gee clarified that traffic studies by DTS are the proper method that traffic engineers use to review the need to increase or reduce speed limits.
7. Petition Question: Resident Ellis asked if a petition from area residents requesting help would be useful. Ms. Leonardo suggested that if the bill comes up again to lower speeds to 15 mph (after the traffic study), community members could bring a petition and testify at committee and council meetings. She offered to keep Mr. Ellis informed of meeting dates.
Governor Josh Green’s Representative – [1:28:36]: Ashton Stallings shared highlights from the October 2025 Governor’s newsletter. The Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation is working on new affordable housing across from Pearl Harbor. The Department of Accounting and General Services opened a new West Hawaii office to better serve Big Island in maintaining public school facilities, state office buildings, courthouses, and public libraries. Hawaii joined the U.S. Affordable Cars Coalition to continue advancing clean energy efforts.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/11VsVsFotgCOfvyBj9yVzCmq_o0Q00GSa/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:30:09]
1. Physician Shortage: Member Patrick Smith asked what the governor is doing to increase the number of physicians, especially primary care physicians, in the state. He suggested the governor should expand financial scholarships for medical school students or for young doctors who agree to serve remote communities, and possibly expand the medical school itself. He noted that as a physician, the governor should invest money in solutions even if he won’t see the results during his term. Ms. Stallings stated she wrote down the question and would get answers, noting she believes some incentives are already in place but doesn’t know them off the top of her head.
2. Duck Relocation: Member Kurashige asked why the governor or the appropriate department is waiting until February to relocate ducks (Hawaiian ducks interbreeding with mallards) instead of acting sooner to prevent further interbreeding and potential loss of the native Hawaiian duck population.
District 13 Senator Karl Rhoads – [1:33:43]: Edith Njuafack Dees, presenting on behalf of Senator Rhoads, reported that the Hawaii State Judiciary has issued a scam alert about imposters claiming to be Supreme Court staff who demand payments or threaten arrest; the Judiciary never initiates such contact. She noted that COVID-19 levels in Hawaii have declined but continue to circulate, with vaccines readily available at local drugstores and covered by insurance. Senator Rhoads’ office is currently preparing bills for the upcoming legislative session and encourages community suggestions, while also continuing to explore the possibility of reopening the Kaʻena Point road.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WXT4zn-cL16cXU9XzWQ4nodHdf8mQRt0/view?usp=drive_link
District 27 Representative Jenna Takenouchi – [1:37:28]: Representative Takenouchi thanked participants in the October 18 community resource fair, which drew 14 organizations and 65-70 attendees, with plans to make it an annual event with Kuakini Health System. She announced the public library’s new digital navigator program at Liliha Library offering free technology assistance. During “Stop the Ant Month,” she urged residents to test for little fire ants following recent outbreaks in Nuʻuanu, Alewa Valley, and lower Papakōlea, with free test kits available through her office. She stressed the importance of reporting both positive and negative results. Representative Takenouchi announced prescription drug takeback day on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Hawaii State Capitol (by the Father Damien statue on Beretania Street) for safe disposal of leftover prescriptions.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:42:36]
1. Fallen Trees in Stream: Member Easley Allen reported hearing two trees crack and fall in the past week, with a big portion believed to be in the stream currently. She asked if someone could check the stream as she’s worried about potential issues with upcoming rains. The trees are in an empty lot behind her property. Representative Takenouchi stated she would make a report and have someone go out to take a look.
2. Little Fire Ant Fumigation: Member Young noted that Senator Fukunaga mentioned residents can call the Department of Agriculture for little fire ant fumigation. Representative Takenouchi clarified that fumigation assistance is only available for confirmed infestations after positive test kit results, not simply upon request.
3. Fleas in Nuʻuanu Valley Park: Member Kurashige reported that Nuʻuanu Valley Park needs to be checked regularly for fleas as cats are present and people are getting bitten. Representative Takenouchi stated she would let the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) know.
Federal Elected Officers & Other Elected Officials – [1:46:52]: No representatives present.
Office of Hawaiian Affairs – [1:47:29]: No representative present, despite being requested for the third time.
MEETING MINUTES – [1:47:35]
[1:49:44] The September 16, 2025 meeting minutes were approved as written without objection; 9-0-0 (Aye: Gee, Grebe, Hidano, Kurashige, Lum, L. Smith, P. Smith, Young, Easley Allen; Nay: None; Abstain: None). Member Kurashige noted he did not receive a copy of the minutes, and Neighborhood Assistant Magaoay stated he would follow up on that issue.
PRESENTATIONS – [1:49:55]
Wireless Telecommunications Facility at 2313 Nuʻuanu Avenue – [1:50:20]: Shane Visitacion from Network Connex presented on behalf of Crown Castle regarding a wireless facility modification at 2313 Nuʻuanu Avenue (Honolulu Central Seventh-Day Adventist Church). Per land use ordinance, surrounding property owners were notified. Crown Castle proposes replacing the existing 80-foot flag pole (which camouflages T-Mobile antennas installed in 2003) with an 80-foot monopine (fake pine tree) and expanding the fenced compound from 13.5 by 14.5 feet to 19.5 by 14.5 feet. The monopine design allows other carriers to collocate, potentially reducing future tower needs. Crown Castle will submit applications for a minor conditional use permit modification, height waiver, and building permit. The unmanned facility will comply with all federal, state, and local standards and won’t generate fumes, waste, or significant noise.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:58:01]
1. Fake Pine Tree: Member Easley Allen asked if the pine tree is real or fake. Mr. Visitacion confirmed it’s all fake foliage.
2. Signal Strength Changes: Member Patrick Smith asked what substantial changes there are besides aesthetics, particularly regarding signal strength for the area. Mr. Visitacion explained that the current flag pole design limits the amount of equipment carriers can place on it (currently three antennas). As technology advances and more people use devices, carriers need to upgrade equipment to handle public demand. The monopine allows more antennas to be added on top while being concealed by pine foliage, and also allows collocation with other carriers, eliminating the need for additional poles elsewhere in the neighborhood or on building roofs (which DPP prefers).
3. Location Clarification: Member Young had difficulty seeing the screenshot on her screen due to closed captioning and asked about the exact location of 2313 Nuʻuanu Avenue. After discussion among members, it was confirmed to be at the Honolulu Central Seventh-Day Adventist Church, located on the Diamond Head side of Nuʻuanu Avenue, near the area across from Kawānanakoa Place, between the mausoleum and the community church.
4. Radiation Safety Concerns: Member Kurashige expressed concerns about similar installations in Nuʻuanu from Pali Highway and asked about proximity to schools and potential radiation effects on people and children. She mentioned Nuʻuanu Elementary School and asked if the preschool is still at the Seventh-Day Adventist Church. Mr. Visitacion stated he had no idea about the preschool but assured that site safety isn’t changing—only the design. The same FCC safety guidelines are being met, and sites are constantly audited to ensure antennas operate properly and safely.
5. Carriers on Site: Member Kurashige asked who the carriers are on the roofs. Mr. Visitacion explained this particular site is owned by Crown Castle (a large company that owns poles that carriers rent space from) and currently T-Mobile is the only carrier on this site.
6. Flag Pole Removal: Resident Mike Ellis expressed appreciation for the beauty of the flag waving in the valley and asked if the flag pole would be replaced or if the materials would be added to it. Mr. Visitacion confirmed the flag pole is being removed and replaced with the monopine. Mr. Ellis expressed concern that this doesn’t look good for the valley and noted it’s right next door to a very historical park of native Hawaiians.
7. Income for Church: Resident Ellis noted that the benefit comes from income generated for the church, pointing out that many condominiums and buildings have similar stations on their roofs generating good income to offset costs. He expressed appreciation for the flag and what it represents for the United States of America.
8. Community Aesthetic Value: Member Kurashige agreed 100% with Mike Ellis, expressing sadness about the flag pole being removed and the aesthetics being impacted. She questioned why they couldn’t use roofs instead.
BOARD BUSINESS – [2:09:12]
Update on Pali Highway Transportation Projects – [2:09:18]: Chair Gee noted that Ryan Nakata from the Department of Transportation was not present despite being invited. She apologized and stated this item would be carried over to next month. [2:13:15] – Resident Mark Oyama suggested that in the future, if someone is not present, an announcement should be made earlier in the meeting so people know they can log off. He briefly noted that he had provided comments on what was done incorrectly in the previous noise test and was not surprised they didn’t have time to verify everything yet, which could be why they’re not present. He hasn’t received any response from them and isn’t sure they’d be ready next month either.
Community Resource Fair – [2:09:55]: Chair Gee reported that the fair was already discussed with Representative Takenouchi earlier in the meeting. She thanked Member Patrick Smith for bringing the banner and noted that Member Lee (who was absent) had brought a tablecloth, candy, and tea to pass out. Only three board members attended (Chair Gee, Member Patrick Smith, and Member Lee), and they met a lot of people and had a good time.
Punchbowl Cesspools Projects – [2:10:23]: Member Lum reported no updates, stating “we’re still pooping in holes up in here in Punchbowl.”
Nuʻuanu Valley Park – [2:15:23]: No representative from the Department of Parks and Recreation or Queen Emma Summer Palace was present. Chair Gee stated she would try again to extend invitations to have them attend.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:16:25]
1. Dimming Park Lights Clarification: Resident Mike Ellis asked if there was an error in the minutes requesting to “dim” the lights, as he believed the request was to have better lights replaced. He stated one new walk light has been installed next to the first handicapped stall and looks great, and he recommended replacing all walk lights with that type.
2. Hau Tree Trimming: Resident Ellis noted this was the third month he mentioned the hau tree issue with no action or acknowledgment of responsibility. The hau tree is creeping along the grass instead of being lifted up, creating a canopy crawling along the grass. This presents problems with homeless people living under it or illegal drug activity happening within the brush. The tree needs to be cut and lifted up. He noted an incident two days ago at Pūowaina Lane where a homeless person broke into a residence, and he believes that’s where many homeless people live.
3. Monkey Pod Tree Trimming: Resident Ellis referenced his request for brighter parking lot lights and cutting the canopy of monkey pod trees under the lights so there’s no obstruction of lights shining on the parking lot. He noted the park has been cutting trees along the fence line, which is good, but they need to be reminded again.
4. Responsibility Question: Resident Ellis asked who is responsible and suggested maybe the issue should be moved from board business to residents’ community concerns for better accountability. Chair Gee suggested he bring this up with the city representative. Mr. Ellis stated he has been doing so for the last 15 years and reported it on the 311 system with no resolution. Chair Gee also suggested contacting the council member’s office, which Mr. Ellis confirmed he had done. Neighborhood Assistant Magaoay stated he would add it to the mayor’s report for next month for follow-up.
5. Property Line Clarification: Member Kurashige emphasized the need to determine which property is responsible for what—whether Queen Emma Summer Palace or the city and county—so each can be held responsible for their respective areas. Chair Gee agreed they would work on identifying the property lines.
Annual In-Person Board Meeting – [2:22:05]: Chair Gee requested discussion on selecting a date and location for one in-person meeting during the year. She suggested working with one of the elementary schools and having Neighborhood Assistant Magaoay check pricing to see what’s in the budget. She opened the floor for suggestions on which elementary school to meet at, noting she would like Nuʻuanu Elementary for selfish reasons (proximity to her home) but welcomed other suggestions.
Discussion followed – [2:23:13]
1. Pauoa Elementary Suggestion: Member Lum suggested Pauoa Elementary as it’s centrally located.
2. Papakōlea Community Center Suggestion: Member Patrick Smith suggested Papakōlea Community Center to make a showing in that community and potentially help generate interest for people to join the board from there.
3. Queen Emma Summer Palace and Nuʻuanu Elementary: Member Easley Allen noted Queen Emma Summer Palace allows meetings (used for OHA meetings and hula) and also supported the Nuʻuanu Elementary idea for selfish reasons.
4. Accessibility Concerns: Member Kurashige emphasized the importance of ensuring the location is physically accessible for people in wheelchairs. She confirmed Nuʻuanu Elementary and Pauoa Elementary are accessible but was unsure about Papakōlea.
5. Pauoa Elementary Support: Member Young supported Member Lum’s suggestion for Pauoa Elementary because it was the board’s regular meeting spot for years, many older people attended there, it was accessible for elderly community members, had good parking, was accessible for fire and police departments, and was well-lighted (unlike Nuʻuanu Elementary which has dark spots in the parking area). She noted residents on lower Pacific Heights have expressed wishes for meetings to return to Pauoa because it was convenient for them.
6. Checking Availability: Members agreed to first check availability before voting. The locations to check were confirmed as Pauoa Elementary, Papakōlea Community Center (Member Patrick Smith initially offered to withdraw this due to lack of interest, but others supported checking it), Queen Emma Summer Palace, and Nuʻuanu Elementary.
7. Bus Accessibility: Member Patrick Smith noted that in the past, bus accessibility was also a consideration—whether the site is available on a bus line.
8. Camera Access: Member Kurashige asked if there would be cameras for homebound participants. Neighborhood Assistant Magaoay confirmed yes.
9. Prospective Date: Member Patrick Smith noted a prospective date would be needed. After discussion noting March 2026 is recess, the board agreed to check availability for April, May, or June 2026. Neighborhood Assistant Magaoay agreed to check the four locations (Pauoa, Papakōlea, Queen Emma, Nuʻuanu) for those three months.
Charter Commission Request for Board Comments & Amendments – [2:30:41]: Chair Gee explained that the Charter Commission is requesting comments from board members and the community on charter amendments. She encouraged everyone to go to the Charter Commission’s website where there are two forms—one to propose amendments to the charter itself and another for boards to provide comments. She noted this opportunity only comes every 10 years and encouraged people to look at the charter, review how the city is organized, and provide input. People can even talk to neighbors and provide input on their behalf.
Discussion followed – [2:31:46]
1. Submission Deadline: Member Patrick Smith clarified that the last day to submit initial proposals is Friday, November 7, 2025, so this wouldn’t be a board proposal but rather individual submissions. The Charter Commission is soliciting proposals from everybody. He noted there’s not enough time for the board to come back together and decide on anything as a group.
ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:32:26]
Community Events: Member Kurashige announced two Nuʻuanu community events. On Saturday, October 25, a dog parade begins at 10:00 a.m. at Dowsett Circle featuring costumed dogs and owners, with prizes for all participants and refreshments afterward at 1525 ʻAʻala Street. On Thursday, October 31, Halloween trick-or-treating will take place from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Dowsett Circle near Pali Highway, with Honolulu Police Department officers present, limited parking, and all costumed visitors welcome.
Next Meeting: Chair Gee announced the next regular board meeting is Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. She encouraged everyone to get their costumes ready for Halloween and thanked everyone for their patience and attendance. She noted there was really good discussion during the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT – [2:34:56]: The meeting was adjourned at 9:34 p.m.
Submitted by: Zhoydell Magaoay, Neighborhood Assistant
Reviewed by: Dylan Whitsell, Deputy
Finalized by: Jill Easley Allen, Secretary and Rae Gee, Chair

To view agenda and minutes, visit our board website.

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