KALIHI – PĀLAMA NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 15

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2025
KALIHI WAENA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL LIBRARY
1240 GULICK AVE., HONOLULU, HI 96819
AND VIRTUAL VIA WEBEX
7:00 P.M.

WebEx Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=m87b646203f9cad03ba885a37cda93aaf
Meeting Number / Access Code: 2495 468 8292
Password: NB15 (6215 from phones and video systems)
Join by phone: +1-408-418-9388 United States Toll

Meeting Materials: Find a monthly archive of handouts and referenced materials concerning to Kalihi-Palāma Neighborhood Board No. 15 at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1jZWmXmsk6bquFmxc5Ch_JqHL1wlHZrRL

Recordings: Recordings of Board meetings can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1DZJTKor6TTNYiqx5U-P2w

Rules of Speaking: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to click the “raise hand” icon, and when recognized by the Chair, to address comments to the Chair. Remarks should not exceed one minute-thirty seconds and one question per speaker, additional questions be posted in the chat or emailed to presenters. Please ensure your microphone is muted unless you are speaking. Please state your first and last name for the record before moving into your comments/question, etc. Written testimony may also be submitted via email using the contact information listed on the Neighborhood Commission Office website.

Purpose: The purpose of neighborhood boards and the neighborhood plan is to increase and assure effective citizen participation in the decisions of government.

Notes: The Board may take action on any agenda item. As required by the State Sunshine Law (Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) 92), specific issues not noted on this agenda cannot be voted on unless added to the agenda. A two-thirds (2/3) vote, nine (9) of this thirteen (13) 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. Please silence all electronic devices.

I. CALL TO ORDER: Vice Chair Evelyn Cullen

II. ROLL CALL: Melissa Urubio, Neighborhood Assistant

III. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS: Three (3) minutes each
A. Honolulu Fire Department
B. Honolulu Police Department – District 1
C. Honolulu Police Department – District 5
D. Board of Water Supply – Iris Oda
E. Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) – Gabby Camacho – report submitted

IV. PRESENTATIONS (Limited to maximum 10-Minute Presentation)
A. Community Engagement for Resilient Neighborhoods (CERENE) – Dr. Miku Lenentine
B. Sand Island Historic Properties Project – G70 Cody Winchester, AICP, DMHA

V. CITY ELECTED OFFICIALS: Three (3) minutes each
A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – Deputy Director Stephen Courtney, Department of Information Technology (DIT)
B. Councilmember Radiant Cordero
C. Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam

VI. COMMUNITY UPDATES
A. U.S. Army Garrison Hawaiʻi Military Report – Selina Gentkowski – furloughed
VII. RESIDENTS’ AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS: Three (3) Minutes each: Meeting participants may present their community concerns at this time. Note – Due to the State “Sunshine Law,” concerns not listed on the agenda may be presented, but no Board action can be taken. Items brought up may be placed on a future agenda for discussion/action.

VIII. STATE ELECTED OFFICIALS: Three (3) minutes each
A. Senator Karl Rhoads (District 13)
B. Senator Donna Mercado Kim (District 14)
C. Senator Glenn Wakai (District 15)
D. Representative Daniel Holt (House District 29)
E. Representative Shirley Templo (House District 30)
F. Governor Josh Green’s MD Representative – Dreana Kalili, Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT)

IX. BOARD BUSINESS
A. Resolution(s) to vote on:
I. Pearl City Resolution: Supporting the recommendations of the Hawaii Injury Prevention Plan and the Hawaii Water Safety Plan. This resolution is to help prevent drownings in the State of Hawaii.
• https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1NS-SrHo4pw4naXCiV_PqOnJVHqXdeai9
II. Cards Pintor Resolution: HOLO Card – tap to pay
• https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zucpNiavTyePOoPSys1yk7sx-XF7lpK3/view?usp=drive_link
III. Cards Pintor Resolution: Amend State Constitution That Slavery and Involuntary Servitude is Prohibited
• https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iXOicciMLnZ-3WW_j-R-PSEiVmk0-Dfm/view?usp=drive_link
IV. Cards Pintor: Urging for more Remote and Hybrid Jobs for the State and City Government.
• https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nMcMjnjgBNVnYOHDQ_ubj48Niket—0/view?usp=drive_link

B. Vice Chair’s Announcement:
I. Clarification on Certificate Presentation: October 2025
II. Reminder – Board Members to send their bio and photo to NCO office asap. Bio is limited to 500 words or less and a contact you’d be willing to share as it will be posted on the website.

C. Election of Officers to Serve from November 19, 2025 to June 30, 2026 [NP §2- 14-120(b)]:
I. 2nd Vice Chair
II. Treasurer

D. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes: Wednesday, October 15, 2025

E. Committees – Discussion and establishment of Neighborhood Board Committees, their purposes, and potential members: Public Safety, Health/Medical, Education, Food Security and Resources.

X. COMMUNITY RESOURCES
A. Governor Josh Green recently announced new coordinated state actions to protect Hawai’i families from the impacts of the ongoing federal government shutdown disruption to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It’s called Expanded Relief and Family Assistance – sign up through Catholic Charities Hawaii website or call (808)521-4357 press “1” for financial assistance, then “1 for HRP) or you can visit the Catholic Charities website for more information.
B. SNAP application Assistance, Senior Food Box Program – go to the Hawaii Food Bank website, Senior Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program/Senior Coupon – Farmer’s markets organized Foodbank along with Sate OCS and Dept of Ag – eligible seniors can apply to receive up to $50 worth of coupons to use at these Farmer’s markets.

XI. ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. Parades – Kalihi Palama on Friday, November 28, 2025 meet at Kalihi Union Church at 4:00 pm, and Honolulu City Lights Parade on Saturday, November 29, 2025 meet at 3:45 pm at A’ala Park, look for our Neighborhood Board Sign at both Parades.
B. Palama Settlement’s Free Christmas Celebration for the Whole Family – Friday, December 19, 2025 from
4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Free food, free entertainment, and a free gift for every child ages 12 and under.
C. NCO and Toys for Tots – Toy Drive: Your Neighborhood Assistant will be collecting donated children’s toys (new and unwrapped) at tonight’s meeting on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. If you’d like to donate, please bring your toy(s) to this meeting.
D. The next Kalihi-Pālama Neighborhood Board No. 15 meeting is scheduled to be on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. at Kalihi Waena Elementary School Library. The Board will be in recess for December 2025.
E. The Kalihi-Pālama Neighborhood Board No. 15 recordings can be seen on ʻŌlelo Channel 49 or at www.olelo.org/live at the following times: 1st Monday of each month at 9:00 p.m. and 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at 11:00 a.m.

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, Hawai’i 96817, by telephone on (808) 768-3710, fax (808) 768-3711, or e-mailing nco@honolulu.gov. Agenda documents and minutes are also available online at http://www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards.html

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 email nbtestimony@honolulu.gov.

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

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2025 at 7:00 P.M.
KALIHI WAENA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL LIBRARY
1240 GULICK AVENUE, HONOLULU, HI 96819
AND VIRTUAL VIA WEBEX
Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://youtu.be/V-GtgKWwSP4
Reports & other meeting materials can be found at: Kalihi-Pālama Neighborhood Board No. 15 Google Drive
I. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:08]: Chair Ybanez called the Kalihi-Pālama Neighborhood Board No. 15 meeting to order at 7:00 p.m., and quorum was established. Note: This 13 member Board requires 7 members to establish a quorum and to take official action.

Members Present: Evelyn Cullen, Diosa Mae Daga, Ken Farm, Patricia Hoopii, Randy Jadulang, Erich Mitamura, Willis Moore, Cardenas Pintor, Lloyd Pohano, Vangie Tolete, and Lynn Vasquez, Amanda Ybanez.

Members Absent: Donald Guerrero.

Guests: Sergeant Pedro Rodriguez (Honolulu Police Department – District 1), Sergeant Kevin Takehara (Honolulu Police Department – District 5); Firefighter Jacob Irvine (Honolulu Fire Department – Kalihi Station); Iris Oda (Board of Water Supply); Gabby Camacho (Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation); Stephen Courtney (Mayor’s Representative); Councilmember Radiant Cordero; Lynn Robinson (Office of Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam); Roy Miyahira (City & County Homeless Coordinator); Principal Dan Larkin (Kalihi Waena Elementary); Aaron Magee (Global Preservation Initiative); Dre Kalili (Governor’s Representative); Senator Donna Mercado Kim; Ashley Niibu (Office of Senator Glenn Wakai); Kelly (Office of Representative Daniel Holt); Ed Thompson (Office of Representative Shirley Templo); Dr. Miku Lenentine (Community Engagement for Resilient Neighborhhods – CERENE); Mike Buck (C.O.R.E) Dana Yap, Dale Krupa, Kamakea Wright, Leialoha Tumbaga, James Soong, Yvonne Yoro, Marissa, Lt Yamashita, Alana Libed, Spencer (Residents and Community members). Note: Names were not included if not legible. There were 53 total attendees.

II. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS – [0:00:20]

A. Honolulu Fire Department – [0:27:44]: Firefighter Jacob Irvine reported that for September 2025 there were 2 structure fires, 2 brush fires, 7 nuisance (rubbish) fires, 1 cooking fire, and 7 activated alarms with no fire. Other emergencies included 187 medical calls, 4 motor vehicle collisions involving a pedestrian, 18 motor vehicle crashes/collisions, 0 mountain or ocean rescues, and 1 hazardous materials incident. Seasonal safety tips for Halloween were shared, including using lights in good repair and turning them off when away or asleep, avoiding overloading or daisy chaining power strips, monitoring surge protectors and extension cords, never leaving candles unattended, and securing lighters and matches away from children.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns followed – [0:29:37]
1. Appreciation for Rapid Brush Fire Response: Principal Dan Larkin thanked the Honolulu Fire Department for extinguishing a nearby brush fire in under 10 minutes.

B. Honolulu Police Department – District 1 – [0:00:29]: Sergeant Pedro Rodriguez reported September 2025 statistics – 0 motor vehicle thefts, 0 burglaries, 4 thefts, 2 UEMV, 0 assault, 1 sexual assault, 0 graffiti, 3 drug cases, 14 motor vehicle collisions, and 320 calls for service. He added that night enforcement efforts continued at A‘ala Park and Beretania Community Park with approximately 26 inspections and about 11 criminal citations, and park closure violations remained down. Lastly, a Halloween reminder urging caregivers to inspect candy wrappers and wear reflective clothing for visibility.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns followed – [0:03:10]
1. District Boundaries Clarification: Chair Ybanez requested clarity on Districct 1 coverage relative. Sgt. Pedro Rodriguez asnwered that District 1 covers from the Kalihi Street/Liliha intersection to past the H 1 overpass (Times Supermarket/library area). The east side of Liliha is District 1 and the west side is District 5.
2. A‘ala Park Restroom Closures: Resident Dale Krupa asked why A‘ala Park restrooms are closed 24/7. Sergeant Rodriguez answered that Parks and Recreation controls restrooms and closures (often 2100–2200) and may chain entrances. He will ask leadership for an update next month.

C. Honolulu Police Department – District 5 – [0:05:17]: Sergeant Kevin Takehara reported that in September 2025 there were 8 aggravated assaults, 7 auto thefts, 10 burglaries, 4 sex assaults, 13 simple assaults, 32 thefts, and 5 UEMV/theft from motor vehicle incidents.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns followed – [0:06:25]
1. Institute for Human Services Security and Sidewalk Authority: Resident Dale Krupa asked whether the Institute for Human Services security can remove people from sidewalks. Sergeant Takehara answered that only police officers can enforce laws and he is not aware of any partnership with Institute Human Services Security. The security may request movement but cannot clear sidewalks or enforce. He advised to call 911 if issues recur.
2. Certificate of Recognition: Chair Ybanez recognized a police officer from Kalihi Police Station Crime Reduction Unit.

D. Board of Water Supply – [0:11:30]: Iris Oda reported one main break on Monday, September 15, 2025 near 2070 North King Street and asked for kōkua (to help) to reduce water usage by 20% given lower than normal rainfall and high demand. She suggested turning off taps while brushing, shortening showers, irrigating early to reduce evaporation, using hose nozzles, and checking the Board of Water Supply website for conservation and recycled water information.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns followed – [0:13:06]
1. School Watering Schedule: Member Hoopii asked when watering should occur on campus. Iris Oda suggested to avoid hottest periods, especially noon to 5:00 p.m. and early morning watering reduces evaporation and supports grass growth.
2. Conservation for Large Users (Golf Courses/Hotels): Member Pintor raised a question about conservation for high volume users. Iris Oda noted that many golf courses use recycled water and for potable users, they do outreach on conservation practices.

E. Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) – [0:17:06]: Gabby Camacho announced Skyline’s Segment 2 (Pearl Harbor to Middle Street – Kalihi Transit Center) opens to the public on Thursday, October 16, 2025 adding five miles and four stations and operating 4:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. To celebrate, Skyline, TheBus, and TheHandi Van will be free on Saturday, October 18, 2025 and Sunday, October 19, 2025 (riders must tap Holo; no fare deducted). A neighborhood design workshop for Iwilei Station will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at King David Kalākaua Middle School Cafeteria. In response to prior questions, she stated that HART’s next audit is in November and a state audit is anticipated before year end; reports will be accessible via Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS), the City Auditor, or HART upon request. Regarding guideway, elevation accommodates required clearances from utilities and vehicles with heights ranging roughly 20–50 feet depending on surrounding conditions.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns followed – [0:22:00]
1. Bus Connectivity to Airport/Keehi Lagoon After Route 20 Changes: Member Farm asked how riders will reach the airport/Keehi Lagoon given Route 20 changes. Gabby Camacho will share TheBus route link and Department of Transportation Services recently announced new lines/routes.
2. Audit Effectiveness and Mapunapuna Flooding: Member Cullen asked whether audits yield improvements and how flood issues in Mapunapuna area are addressed. Councilmember Radiant Cordero answered that Mapunapuna is largely private owned by Damon Estates). The City installed duck valves at certain private/state sites and is seeking partnerships to mitigate the issue.
3. Public Restroom Access at Rail Stations: Resident Dana Yap asked if rail restrooms are open to the public. Gabby Camacho noted that the public can request access to the restroom from a station attendant.

III. PRESENTATIONS – [0:27:32]

A. Pesticide Resolution – Office of Representative Amy Perruso – [0:30:21]: Intern Olivia Eagle, presented an overview of pesticides and how it affects neigborhoods. She discussed gaps such as insufficient buffer distances for chemicals capable of drifting up to a mile, limited reporting detail, lack of mandated environmental testing at land transfer, and the risk of “Hawai‘i grown” labels misleading consumers regarding organic status. She requested improved reporting, larger school buffers, increased penalties, classifying neonics as Restricted Use Pesticides, mandated environmental testing, and transparency in labeling.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns – followed – [0:37:53]
1. Buffers for Organic Growers on Department of Hawaiian Home Lands Agricultural Lots: Member Cullen asked how organic growers could buffer themselves from neighboring chemical users on the new Department of Hawaiian Home Lands agricultural lots in Maui. She suggested to connect with Department of Hawaiian Home Lands leadership.
2. Definition of “Organic” and Alternatives for CRB Control: Member Farm asked for a codified definition of “organic,” agency roles (United States Department of Agriculture/Department of Education), and alternatives for rhinoceros beetle. Olivia Eagle answered that generally, organic practices avoid synthetic pesticides and minimize environmental harm by using vinegar/lemongrass to deter certain pests.

B. Homeless Initiatives – Roy Miyahira, City and County Homeless Coordinator – [0:41:33]: Roy Miyahira presented their 2025 Homeless Strategy Deployment. He explained the City’s shift from concentrating housing first in single buildings to a diversified flavors of beds including emergency shelters, transitional housing, detox and specialty behavioral health treatment, medical respite, and permanent supportive housing. He noted that they continue to partner with Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement (CORE), Honolulu Police Department (HPD), Institute Human Services (IHS) and other city and county services to do outreach, medical treatment and community policing.

Member Willis Moore arrived at 7:50. p.m. – 12 members present

Questions, Comments, & Concerns followed – [0:52:44]
1. Program Retention and Graduation Outcomes: Member Cullen asked whether individual leave early and if there are outcomes data. Roy Miyahira answered that some clients leave due to rules/readiness. Emergency shelters track motivation and progression and local and national outcomes data exist.
2. Assisted Community Treatment (ACT)/Guardianship and Handling Most Unstable Cases: Member Farm asked how Assisted Community Treatment and guardianship fit for those lacking decisional capacity. Roy Miyahira noted that involuntary/civil commitment requires clinician determination and court processes. City teams like Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement (CORE), Honolulu Police Department (HPD), and Institute Human Services (IHS) are aligning operations for these cases.
3. Beckley Street Family Encampment: Member Diosa Mae described a family encamped near a bathroom over a year and asked how to proceed. Roy Miyahira answered that outreach can begin with Honolulu Police Department (HPD), Institute Human Services (IHS) and Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement (CORE). Residents may request non emergency outreach via Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement (CORE) at 808 768 2673 to engage and transition individuals.
4. Acceptance Rates When Approached: Community member Aaron Magee asked what percentage of approached individuals accept services. Roy Miyahira mentioned that based on his experience, acceptance varies widely (roughly 1 in 10 to 1 in 50) and depends on timing/readiness and a “moment of clarity” matters.
5. Salvation Army Coordination and Repeat Users: Kalihi Valley Board Member James Soong asked about bed coordination with Salvation Army. Roy Miyahira will follow up on Salvation Army coordination.
6. Repeat Users: Resident Allan asked about the statistics of individuals that went through the system more than once. The annual “uses” figure is conservative and likely includes repeats as part of recovery cycles.
7. Service Provider Regional Division and Coverage Areas on Oahu: Member Farm asked to clarify the division of service provider regions on Oahu. Roy Miyahira noted that there are two main providers, Kealahou West Oahu (KWO) and and Institute Human Services (IHS) and the district is split by outreach.
8. IDs and Essential Documents: Resident Dale Krupa asked how those without IDs/records are assisted. Roy Miyahira answered that Hōnū can assist with obtaining IDs and Work Hawai‘i can assist with documentation, job skill development, rental/work program. Member Pintor added that non-profits like To The Top Hawai‘i and My Sister’s Keeper can also assist.
9. Multi Jurisdiction Encampment Near Schools and Fire Risk: Principal Larkin asked about addressing an encampment near Kalihi Waena Elementary school. Roy Miyahira noted that when it come to multi-jurisdiction areas, they partner with the State, Department of Land and Natural resources(DLNR) and other agencies or teams.
C. Global Preservation Initiative (GPI), Sand Island Restoration – Aaron Magee – [1:09:36]: Aaron Magee outlined their work since January 2023 at Sand Island State Recreation Area, including 24 cleanup events with over 1,000 volunteers and 2,600 volunteer hours removing more than 9,000 pounds of trash, clearing 74,000 square feet of invasives to make space for native plantings, planting 76 shade trees around the softball fields with irrigation, and creating protected native shrub areas near showers to utilize runoff. He noted partnerships with DLNR Division of State Parks (site adoption), Kalakaua Middle School, and the Hawai‘i Softball Foundation, and invited the public to a community work day on Saturday, November 8, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with bi monthly work days planned throughout 2026.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns followed – [1:16:37]
1. Canoe Clubs and Houseless Stewardship: Member Cullen suggested engaging canoe clubs and nearby houseless residents for stewardship. Aaron Magee answered they are open to deeper community partnerships and shared stewardship models.
2. Board Participation: Member Hoopii noted that they would love to be part of the upcoming clean up. Member Diosa Mae also asked for other upcoming clean ups.
3. Global Location: Member Cullen asked where else do they have the initiative. Aaron Magee commented that they use Hawaii as a model and inspiration since Hawaii is being impacted by global invasive species and plastic pollution from around the world. They have connected with partners and volunteers and students in Canada, Guatemala, England, Spain and Australia.
4. Primary Users of Softball Fields: Resident Dana Yap asked who primarily uses the fields. Aaron Magee answered that HPU is among many users and he can connect inquirers with the representative of the softball foundation for more details.

IV. CITY ELECTED OFFICIALS – [1:24:28]

A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – Deputy Director Stephen Courtney (DIT) – [1:24:39]: Deputy Director Courtney summarized the Mayor’s October newsletter, including a 30,000 person tribute to musician Fiji at the Waikīkī Shell and Kapi‘olani Regional Park, the first meeting of the Ocean Safety Commission, the City welcoming a Harvard Bloomberg City Hall fellow to assist with housing and regulatory reform, the Skyline Segment 2 opening, and the City Charter Commission’s call for public proposals through Friday, November 7, 2025, with October community meetings. He encouraged the community to use Honolulu 311 and hnl.info for City updates. He also added that DTS confirmed multiple bus lines will serve Lagoon Drive and Middle Street stations starting Thursday, October 16, 2025 with additional details shared in the meeting chat.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns followed – [1:28:40]
1. Appreciation for Skyline Opening Ceremony: Chair Ybanez thanked the City and partners for the Skyline opening and coordination.

B. Councilmember Radiant Cordero – [1:29:31]: Councilmember Cordero clarified that Mapunapuna is largely private (Real Estate Investment Trusts) with some Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) parcels. The City’s Department of Environmental Services is conducting smoke testing at the Sand Island wastewater collection system during the week with updates posted on Department of Environmental Services website. She announced adoption of Bill 52 which addresses long-standing enforcement gaps related to the maintenance of privately owned ponds and lakes that flow into the ocean, highlighted Resolution 25 263 to implement an 18-month pilot program to have library vending machines at the Pouhala and Kahauiki Skyline stations. She also announced that she attended the ‘Aiea and Pearl City Town Hall Meeting where legislators discussed protecting and educating kūpuna about trageted scams. There will be a Charter Commission community information sessions at Salt Lake District Park on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 6:00 p.m., with a catch all Zoom session on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. Lastly, she discussed Bill 60 on rail extension planning, noting amendments removed references to Manoa and Waikīkī to avoid pre committing the alignment post Ala Moana while honoring the locally preferred alternative framework, emphasizing Chair Waters’ advocacy for addressing West O‘ahu needs, and stressing respect for cultural sites and burials.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns followed – [1:38:49]
1. Skyline Extension Alignment Specifics (Manoa/Waikīkī Branching): Member Pintor asked how the extension might split post–Ala Moana. Councilmember Radiant Cordero noted that Bill 60 was amended to remove specific mentions of Manoa/Waikīkī to allow data driven alignment decisions later.
2. Cultural Sites and Burial Protections: Member Pintor also noted consideration of protecting recognized burial areas during Skyline construction.
3. Prioritizing West Side Needs: Member Cullen urged focus on West O‘ahu commuters. Councilmember Radiant Cordero noted that Chair Tommy Waters has consistently emphasized West side needs, removing specificity keeps options open to prioritize the most critical corridors.

C. Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos Tam [1:46:51]: Lynn Robinson reported that Fern Community Park will have an improvement project of the multi-purpose building adding approximately 600 square feet of interior space for recreational activities such as arts and crafts. The building and immediate area will be closed during construction, while fields/courts/playground/other amenities remain open during regular park hours; work is scheduled weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., excluding holidays, with reopening anticipated in Spring 2026. She also announced that the City Council approved Bill 51 to create a Downtown Business Improvement District, to be signed by the Mayor at a ceremony.

Questions, Comments, & Concerns followed – [1:50:14]
1. Community Involvement: Councilmember Cordero requested any community feedback/concerns on left turn needs on Waiakamilo Road and North King Street.

V. COMMUNITY UPDATES – [1:51:58]

A. U.S. Army Garrison Hawaiʻi Military Report – [1:51:59]: No representative present.

VI. RESIDENTS’ AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS – [1:52:01]

1. Community Engagement for Resilient Neighborhhods (CERENE): Dr. Miku Lenentine introduced a resilience hub learning community that meets monthly to support new and existing hubs with training and coordination and announced funding to support a 2026 resilience hubs summit, providing contact information and an invitation to upcoming meet and greet sessions.
2. Announcements: Member Pintor noted Hawai‘i SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) open enrollment from Wednesday, October 15, 2025 to Sunday, December 7, 2025. He also announced the upcoming Pride Festival on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at Ala Moana Beach Park – Magic Island.
3. Event Announcements: Resident Dana Yap noted Kapālama Complex Halloween “Fright Night” event on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at Kalakaua Gym, another event on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at Kalihi Valley Community Park Gym and Farrington High School Community Council Meeting on Monday, November 17, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. Member Diosa Mae described the (Farrington Alumni Community Foundation) FACF partnership with (Kalihi Business Association) KBA to continue the longstanding Kalihi Christmas Parade on Black Friday, November 28, 2025 and requested interest sign ups.
4. Kalihi Waena Elementary School Halloween Event: Principal Larkin invited the community to Kalihi Waena’s Trunk or Treat event next Friday, October 24, 2025 noting family services booths will be on site.
5. Board Member Urge Route 20 Restoration and All-Way Stop for Pedestrian Safety: Member Farm explained the importance of Route 20/Iwilei connectivity and requested the City consider a peak hour four way stop at Kalihi Street and North King Street for pedestrian safety. Member Cullen strongly supported reinstating Route 20 service and emphasized that a four way pedestrian control is a community need, not just a request.

[2:05:40] Chair Ybanez called a 10 minute recess and left the meeting at 9:05 p.m. – 11 members present

VII. STATE ELECTED OFFICIALS – [2:05:45]

A. Senator Karl Rhoads (District 13) – [2:05:57]: No representative present.

B. Senator Donna Mercado Kim (District 14) – [2:06:05]: Senator Kim described coordinated efforts with State Department of Transportation and the City to implement traffic calming and raised crosswalks on School Street between Houghtailing Street and Lanakila Avenue, noting a recent fatal hit and run and the presence of multiple schools and a forthcoming 250 unit affordable senior project slated for completion in Q3 2026. She shared “quiet hours” in her written report, announced a kupuna group meeting Monday, Wednesday, Fridaday at 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., advertised Legislature session hiring for December to May positions (assistants, researchers, attorneys, clerks) via resume@capitol.hawaii.gov, noted backpack giveaways at Kapālama and Kalihi Elementary Schools, highlighted Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) neighborhood workshop on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at King David Kalākaua Middle School and celebrated the University of Hawai‘i “Direct To UH” program launch at Farrington High School.

C. Senator Glenn Wakai (District 15) – [2:10:56]: Ashley highlighted the launch of Transforming Animal and Incarcerated Individuals (TAIL) program at the Women’s Community Correctional Center, a year long pilot enabling selected inmates to foster kittens for adoption to support healing, with potential expansion to dogs and to Halawa Correctional Facility if successful. The office also observed September’s Fetal Alcohol Awareness Month and reaffirmed advocacy for prevention and support.

D. Representative Daniel Holt (House District 29) – [2:13:18]: Kelly announced Act 310’s $50 million emergency nonprofit grant program (applications October 13, 2025 to October 24, 2025 4:30 p.m., via Aloha United Way portal), a community resource fair on Saturday, October 18, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Kuakini Health Systems, a pop up legal clinic on Saturday, November 1, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Lanakila Multi Purpose Senior Center (appointments via 808 528 7046 by Tuesday, October 21, 2025; interpreter availability), and The Pantry’s new Monday food distribution for federally impacted workers starting Monday, October 20, 2025 with registration at thepantry.org.
E. Representative Shirley Templo (House Disctrict 30) – [2:16:14]: Ed Thompson reported that Representative Templo convened the first meeting of the Kalihi Safety Task Force at Kuhio Park Towers. The task force was created to bring together government agencies, service providers, and community leaders with one shared goal — to make Kalihi a safer place for all residents. They are also working on putting together a Kalihi Kai security watch meeting in coordination with Honolulu Police Department District 5 to address issues for areas along Pu‘uhale Road and Libby Street. He also reminded non-profits to apply for Act 310 grants and announced a Ka’ahumanu Homes Resident Meeting on Thursday, October 16, 2025, 6:00 p.m. at Kamehameha Homes Community Hall.
F. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – [2:19:34]: Dreana Kalili summarized the Governor’s October newsletter which includes statewide housing updates, tax preparer workshops on recent law changes and noted no district specific updates this month.

VIII. BOARD BUSINESS – [2:20:23]

A. Resolutions to vote on:
I. Pesticide Reform Resolution – [2:20:30]: Member Pintor MOVED and Member Diosa Mae SECONDED to support the Pesticide Reform Resolution presented by the Office of Representative Perruso. Member Farm stated with reservation with no clear vote. The motion WAS NOT ADOPTED; 6 1 3. (Aye: Cullen, Diosa Mae, Hoopii, Pintor, Tolete, Vasquez; Nay: Mitamura; Abstain: Ajdulang, Moore, Pohano) – [2:22:57].
II. Pearl City Resolution: Supporting the recommendations of the Hawaii Injury Prevention Plan and the Hawaii Water Safety Plan – [2:23:14]: Item deferred
III. Cards Pintor Resolution: HOLO Card – tap to pay – [2:23:15]: Item deferred.

B. Election of Officers to Serve from October 15, 2025 to June 30, 2026 [NP §2- 14-120(b) – [2:23:16]: Item deferred.

C. Agenda/Meeting Management for Next Meeting – [2:24:35]: Member Diosa Mae requested to place on the next agenda discussion on revising the agenda order to place Community Concerns first and to take presenters and resolutions earlier and to consider an earlier start time than 7:00 p.m. Member Cullen also requested to add discussion regarding the presentation of a District 5 certificate without prior Board consensus.

IX. COMMITTEE REPORTS – [2:23:20]: Item deferred.

X. COMMUNITY RESOURCES AND EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS – [2:23:28]

A. Vice Chair Cullen announced that concerns about homeless individuals or groups in your neighborhood can be reported to HonoluluCORE@honolulu.gov or call the C.O.R.E. hotline at (808) 768-2673. This line is for non-emergencies only and calls will be returned as soon as possible. She also announced information regarding The Salvation Army, Saint Elizabeth Church and Aloha United Way.

XI. ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:26:48]

A. The next Kalihi Pālama Neighborhood Board No. 15 meeting is scheduled to be on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at Kalihi Waena Elementary School Library.

B. The Kalihi Pālama Neighborhood Board No. 15 recordings can be seen on ʻŌlelo Channel 49 or at www.olelo.org/live at the following times: first Monday of each month at 9:00 p.m. and second and fourth Thursday of each month at 11:00 a.m.

XII. ADJOURNMENT – [2:27:22]: Vice Chair Cullen adjourned the meeting at 9:27 p.m.

Submitted by: Melissa Urubio, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Robert Whitsell, Deputy, 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.