KAILUA NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 31

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2026, 7:00 pm
IN-PERSON AT THE KAILUA DISTRICT PARK MULTIPURPOSE ROOM,
21 SOUTH KAINALU DRIVE, KAILUA
AND ALSO VIA VIDEO TELECONFERENCE (WEBEX)

NOTE: The Kailua District Park closes at 10 pm and the meeting must end not later than 9:55 pm.
Remote Access Information:
Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=m48bb4312a7cdd4ab5a22e9a7242b1fc2
Meeting number (access code): 2493 665 6544
Meeting password: NB31 (6231 from phones and video systems)
Join by Video System: Dial 24926967184@cchnl.webex.com and enter meeting number.
Join by Phone: (408) 418-9388 (long distance call) and enter meeting number.
If anyone has any problems connecting to this WEBEX link, please contact our Neighborhood Assistant, Melissa Urubio, for assistance at: melissa.urubio@honolulu.gov
Rules of Speaking: Anyone wishing to speak remotely should click the “raise hand” icon. When recognized by the Chair, address comments to the Chair. Remarks should not exceed 3 minutes. The “chat” box can also be used to ask simple questions.
Olelo delayed Broadcasts: OLELO Channel 49 on the 3rd Saturday of the month at 6 pm and the 4th Sunday of the month at 12 noon (Subject to change).
Visit: www.honolulu.gov/nco and www.facebook.com/KailuaNeighborhoodBoard for more information from the Kailua Neighborhood Board.
Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1t7pXEx-Xn6l_ZVmmmoTvqF84EifuBbGn
Neighborhood Board Meeting Recordings: Typically posted the day after the meeting and can be found at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1DZJTKor6TTNYiqx5U-P2w

I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL: Chair Bill Hicks

II. ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. The results of the Kailua Neighborhood Board’s annual survey conducted during the I Love Kailua Town Party are posted at https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1N3vBwtZteTQISFkY3nnAEYtD1Mvso3TN. Mahalo to everyone who participated!

III. HPD, HFD, and OCEAN SAFETY REPORTS – Three (3) minutes each
A. Honolulu Police Department representative (usually Officer Jarret Atkins).
B. Honolulu Fire Department representative.
C. Honolulu Ocean Safety Department representative (usually Lieutenant Tristian Fabro).

IV. BOARD BUSINESS: MOTIONS
A. The Kailua Neighborhood Board recommends that the following conditions be added to the 60 Kaapuni Drive SMA Major application before it is approved by the Council Zoning and Planning Committee.
a. Condition: all artificial light from exterior light fixtures from directly illuminating or projecting across property boundaries toward the shoreline and ocean waters except as otherwise permitted by HRS 205A-7.1(b) and that light fixtures be fully shielded and exterior lighting to be turned off when human activity is not occurring in the illuminated area.
b. Condition: that all projects site work and construction activities are limited to daylight hours (from sunrise to sunset) to avoid collisions and fatalities during seabird fledging season from September 15 through December 15.
c. Condition: require that a visual survey for seabirds and burrow nests must be conducted prior to any construction activities
d. Condition: if wedge-tailed Shearwater or any sea birds’ nests or burrows are found sometime between late October through the end of November, work must be discontinued for 100 to 115 days until all fledging’s have left their nests
e. Condition: that barbless fencing must be used for all fence construction to avoid the entanglement of Hawaiian hoary bats.
f. Condition: that a 300-foot buffer must be observed if a monk seal pup is present
g. Condition: that landscaping must not extend seaward of the shoreline as depicted in the current certified shoreline survey for the shoreline lot, or in the event there is no current certified shoreline survey for the lot, seaward of the shoreline as defined in HRS 205A
h. Condition: require that the landowner acknowledge that “bed and breakfast home and transient vacation units”, as defined in HOR Chapter 21, of the LUO are not allowed.
i. Condition: require the landowner to acknowledge that land makai of the regulatory shoreline is State public land within the State Land Use Conservation District and must remain available for public use and recreation activities.
j. Condition: during any penetration of the ground an archaeological monitor or consultant must be present.
k. Condition: during any penetration of the ground an archaeological monitor or consultant must be present.
B. The Kailua Neighborhood Board supports Bill 53 for the following reasons:
a. The bill requires an applicant to present affordable rental housing project to the neighborhood board within 60 days
b. The bill requires 1 parking space for every 2 units. (Currently no parking spaces are required.)
c. The housing project will have an on site resident manager unit.

V. LOCAL AGENCY REPORTS – Three (3) minutes each
A. Board of Water Supply representative (usually Dani Ornellas).
B. Marine Corps Base Hawaii representative (usually Kristi Kaluhiwa)
C. Alexander & Baldwin Update by Dana Harvey, A&B Director of External Affairs

VI. RESIDENT AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS – Three (3) minutes each

VII. MAYOR AND GOVERNOR REPORTS
A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s representative (usually Jim Ireland or Shayne Enright).
B. Governor Josh Green’s representative (usually Erin Conner-Jerome).

VIII. ELECTED OFFICIAL REPORTS – Three (3) minutes each (The order is randomly selected.)
A. Councilmember Esther Kia’aina
B. Senator Chris Lee
C. Representative Mike Lee
D. Senator Jarrett Keohokalole
E. Representative Lisa Marten
F. Representative Scot Matayoshi
G. Tolua Samifua, on behalf of U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda

IX. REPORTS FROM MEMBERS WHO ATTENDED OTHER MEETINGS

X. PRESENTATION – Ten (10) minutes each
A. Oahu’s Exceptional Tree Program by Navin Tagore, Community Forester, Division of Urban Forestry

XI. BOARD BUSINESS: INDIVIDUAL MOTIONS
A. The Kailua Neighborhood Board will apply to march in the 77th annual Kailua 4th of July Parade. Request the Neighborhood Commission Office fund the $155 application fee (“Non-Profit Community” category).
B. The Kailua Neighborhood Board supports participating in the annual Kailua Emergency Preparedness Fair at the Kailua Town Center, 609 Kailua Road (near the Ulta Beauty Store), on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 9:00 am until noon.

XII. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
A. Thursday, April 2, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes.

XIII. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Executive Committee – Chair, Bill Hicks
B. Public Safety, Public Health, and Civil Defense (PSPHCD) – Chair, Jeremy Treskon
C. Kailua Water Quality PHPSCD Subcommittee – Chair, Levani Lipton
D. Homelessness in Kailua PSPHCD Subcommittee — Chair: Levani Lipton
E. Disaster Preparedness PSPHCD Subcommittee – Chair: David Laeha
F. Transportation and Public Works – Chair: Jade Lau
G. Parks and Recreation – Chair, Evan Weber
H. Planning, Zoning & Environment (PZ&E) – Chair, Donna Wong
I. Community and Government Engagement – Chair, Gary Weller

XIV. COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP MOTIONS: Changes to committee membership.

XV. CHAIR’S REPORT: Committee agendas for June 2026 are due to the Chair by Sunday, May 24, 2026.

XVI. 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, 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 https://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 email nbtestimony@honolulu.gov, or complete the form on https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/board-testimony.

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

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2026 at 7:00 P.M.
KAILUA DISTRICT PARK MULTIPURPOSE ROOM, 21 SOUTH KAINALU DRIVE, KAILUA
AND VIA WEBEX TELECONFERENCING

Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzKwMgW7bOA

Reports & other meeting materials can be found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1t7pXEx-Xn6l_ZVmmmoTvqF84EifuBbGn

I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL – [0:00:48]: Treasurer Gary Weller called the Kailua Neighborhood Board No. 31 regular meeting to order at 7:02 p.m., noting that Chair Hicks and Vice Chair Lipton were both off-island. Quorum was established with 10 members present. Note: This 19-member Board requires 10 members to establish quorum and to take official board action.

Members Present: Emily Andrade, Bruce Andrews, Jennifer Barra, Bill Hicks, David Laeha, Kate Righter, Steven Trecker, Gary Weller, Donna Wong, Ana Malia Kia (7:04 p.m.), Kelli Ann Kobayashi (7:04 p.m.), Evan Weber (7:13 p.m.), Jon White (7:17 p.m.), Jade Lau (8:10 p.m.).

Members Absent: Levani Lipton, Max Markrich, Kalama Souza, Mālie Thoemmes, Jeremy Treskon.

Guests: Sergeant Mike Krekel (Honolulu Police Department); Captain Alan Hackbarth (Honolulu Fire Department); Tanner Williams (Honolulu Ocean Safety Department); Danielle Ornellas (Board of Water Supply); Chase Aalborg (Adventist Health Castle); Shayne Enright (Mayor’s Representative); Erin Conner-Jerome (Governor’s Representative); Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina; Representative Lisa Marten; Jonah McNear (Office of Representative Mike Lee); Tolua Samifua (U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda); Henry Gabriel (Department of Environmental Services); Ian Koki, Amber Unabia, Lei Mahi (City and County of Honolulu); Ross Reyes (Hawaiian Earth); Thomas Dye (Oʻahu Historic Preservation Commission); Mac Curran (Oʻahu Pentathlon Athlete Director); Lani Maa Capilio (Aukahi); Dane Sjoblom (HHF Planners); Kirra Downing, Aisling Brown, Barbara Germann, Claudine Tomasa, Dru Akagi, Don Kobayashi, Dore Minatodani, Kanoelehua, Katie, Malia Espinda, Nick Belluzzo, Wynn Miyamoto, Andrea, Joe Cooper, Randall Hew, Robyn Correia, Constance Correia, Kahala Coila, Karen Mille, Vedant, Bobby Silva, Caleb Monge, Pedro Rodriguez (Residents and Community Members); Melissa Urubio (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible. There were approximately 64 total participants.

Members Kia and Kobayashi joined the meeting at 7:04 p.m. – 11 members present.

II. ANNOUNCEMENTS – [0:04:17]: Treasurer Weller read the following announcements:

A. Mayor’s Windward Town Meeting: Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s next Windward Town Meeting will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. at the Waimānalo District Park Gym.
B. “I Love Kailua” Town Party: The annual “I Love Kailua” Town Party will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Kailua Road in Downtown Kailua. Kailua Road from the intersection with Kuʻulei Road to the intersection with Hahani Street will be closed from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
C. Hawaiian Electric Renewable Energy Zones Meeting: Hawaiian Electric will host a public meeting on its Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) initiative on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Windward Community College, Hale ʻAkoakoa, Room 113, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Attendees may ask questions and provide input through an interactive online map. The presentation will be streamed live on Hawaiian Electric’s Facebook page from 7:00 p.m.
D. Kailua Beach Park Operating Hours: The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) began a pilot project in September 2025 modifying Kailua Beach Park’s operating hours to 4:00 a.m. until 12:00 midnight. The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) has determined the nightly closures are effective and will remain in place. Any closed City park may be traversed at any time to access the ocean or natural/cultural areas; however, remaining in a park during closure hours is illegal unless otherwise permitted by the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR).
E. Oʻahu Pentathlon: The 6th annual Oʻahu Pentathlon will take place on Saturday, August 8, 2026 and Sunday, April 9, 2026. The event is a five-stage, 135-mile challenge around the island consisting of swimming, running, paddling, sandbag carry, and biking, with a 24-hour time cap. Mac Curran, Athlete Director, presented additional details, noting that the portions affecting Kailua include a boat ramp start from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and a swim transition at Castles Beach from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026 followed by a run section from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and a finish at the Kailua Boat Ramp from 10:00 p.m. that Saturday through 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, August 9, 2026. He further noted that Honolulu Police Department will be hired and Pacific Ocean Patrol will serve as lifeguards for the swim, with approximately 40–50 teams and athletes expected to participate, and that permit requests have already been submitted to Parks and Recreation, Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR), and Department of Transportation Services (DTS).
F. Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi Street Names: Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) is correcting spelling errors and adding diacriticals (ʻokina and kahakō) to ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi street names on the State Highway System. The community, especially generational kamaʻāina and ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi speakers, are asked to review proposed changes and submit input by Thursday, December 31, 2026. Street signs will be updated over time as they fall into disrepair or when another Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) project provides the opportunity.

Member Weber joined the meeting at 7:13 p.m. – 12 members present.

III. HPD, HFD, AND OCEAN SAFETY REPORTS – [0:15:26]

A. Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – [0:15:49]: Sergeant Mike Krekel presented March 2026 statistics: zero motor vehicle thefts, two burglaries (the suspected individual was apprehended), 18 thefts (the majority were from Target and the suspect was arrested and charged), two unauthorized entries into motorized vehicles, zero robberies, and 1,493 total calls for service.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:17:21]
1. Electric Bike Incidents: Treasurer Weller asked whether the Honolulu Police Department tracks electric bike incidents, including violations such as double riders. Sergeant Krekel acknowledged the request and stated he would pass it to his lieutenant to compile relevant statistics.

Member White joined the meeting at 7:17 p.m. – 13 members present.

B. Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – [0:18:22]: Captain Alan Hackbarth reported March 2026 statistics: two structure fires, four nuisance fires, three cooking fires, 14 activated alarms with no fire, 111 medical emergencies, four vehicle crashes, three mountain rescues, three ocean rescues, and three hazardous materials incidents. He also shared the monthly fire safety tip, which focused on evacuation planning, advising residents to maintain an emergency preparedness plan, know at least two escape routes from home, leave early during emergencies to avoid fire, smoke, or traffic delays, have a predetermined meeting place, stay informed via HNLAlert.gov, and bring a go-bag (essential items).
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zSO6jmCon7SPsOXnrRkLjvPMIa0Jg_JB/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:20:32]
1. Rescue Locations: Member Wong asked where the ocean and mountain rescues occurred. Captain Hackbarth noted that one ocean rescue was off Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi near Pyramid Rock, and two of the mountain rescues were off the Lanikai Pillbox and the Likee Falls Trail. He stated he would follow up with details on the remaining rescues.

C. Honolulu Ocean Safety Department – [0:21:38]: Tanner Williams reported March 2026 operations for District 2, which spans from Sandy Beach to Kalama Beach. He noted that the district responded to two near-drownings, multiple ocean rescues including a distressed swimmer, kayakers offshore, and a boating incident near Pyramid Rock, as well as four medical/trauma incidents and eight law-enforcement-related responses involving fights and vehicles on the beach. He also reported that Ocean Safety deployed additional assets to assist another district during the month.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:22:46]
1. Brown Water Advisory Status: A community member asked about the current brown water advisory status for Kailua. Tanner Williams confirmed a brown water advisory remains active.
2. Brown Water Sources: Member Wong asked why there is a brown water alert by Castles Beach and whether the brown water is residual or continually flowing from sources such as cesspools adjacent to the canal. Tanner Williams stated he could not answer that specifically, noting it would fall under the environmental/wastewater side, and attributed the condition generally to mountain runoff pushed out from Kawainui Marsh into the ocean.
3. Lifeguard Warnings and Brown Water Signage: Member Righter asked whether lifeguards warn beachgoers about the brown water advisory and whether signs are posted. Tanner Williams confirmed lifeguards provide directional guidance when asked but do not make public announcements and do not currently post signs, though the department would have no problem doing so if directed. Member Weber followed up, noting the Board had previously passed a resolution recommending enhanced beach signage and that the new Ocean Safety Director had expressed interest. He asked Tanner Williams to run the Board’s signed proposal up the chain for an update, and Tanner Williams agreed.
4. Kalaheo Hillside Report Postponed – Acting Chair Weller announced that the Kalaheo Hillside report was not ready for the meeting and has been postponed.

IV. LOCAL AGENCY REPORTS – [0:27:36]

A. Board of Water Supply – [0:27:36]: Danielle Ornellas was having audio issues. Hearing no objections, Acting Chair Weller moved on to the next item.

B. Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi – [0:28:39]: No representative present.

C. Adventist Health Castle – [0:29:12]: Chase Aalborg thanked the community for support during recent storms, noting the hospital was on emergency power for only a few hours and remained fully operational. He reported that Adventist Health Castle was recognized by Hawaiʻi Business Review as one of the best places to work in the State for the second consecutive year, and as the only healthcare system to receive that award. He also added that new services include a second computed tomography (CT) imaging machine operational since December 2025, expanded access to primary care within three days, urgent care, Obstetrics Gynaecology (OB-GYN), rheumatology, and a returning electrophysiology physician. Lastly, he noted that the hospital is working with community partners to improve psychiatric patient discharge planning, and regarding the potential Hawaiʻi Medical Service Association (HMSA) and Hawaiʻi Pacific Health partnership, he emphasized the need for a fair and level playing field for all healthcare systems and payers.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:32:16]
1. Specialty Care Wait Times: Member Andrade asked about specialty care wait times. Chase Aalborg stated that some specialists are available within the week, while others may take up to a month to six weeks, and that those service lines are being actively addressed.
2. Solar Project Update: Member Wong asked for an update on the hospital’s solar project. Chase Aalborg confirmed the project remains on plan, with construction expected to begin later this year or early next year.
3. Storm-Related Health Statistics: Treasurer Weller asked whether any storm-related illnesses or health impacts were tracked for the area. Chase Aalborg stated he did not hear of anything major coming through the hospital and did not have exact statistics, noting the data is difficult to isolate through diagnosis coding.

[0:34:28] Hearing no objections, Treasurer Weller returned to Item IV-A: Board of Water Supply.

Board of Water Supply – [0:35:21]: Danielle Ornellas reported that there was one 8-inch water main break in March 2026 on Hahani Street. She also announced Detected Leak Week, in which the Board of Water Supply partnered with City Mill for outreach events on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Mililani Town Center and Saturday, April 18, 2026 at the Kahala Mall. She reported that there are currently no fire hydrants out of service in the Kailua area and that there are 1,335 Board of Water Supply fire hydrants within the Kailua Neighborhood Board district. Regarding the Kapaʻa water tank construction, she noted that construction has started but progress is on hold pending a subcontractor and the removal of a utility pole by Hawaiian Electric, and that the long-term plan is to build an additional reservoir.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:37:09]
1. Additional Water Main Break: Chair Hicks noted an additional water main break on Kailua Road and Aoloa Street on Friday, March 27, 2026, affecting approximately six customers and impacting traffic. Danielle Ornellas acknowledged the break was not included in her reported statistics.
2. Water Tank Construction and Hawaiian Homes: Member White asked for an update on the water tank construction and whether the project accounts for future Hawaiian Homes construction in the area. Danielle Ornellas confirmed the delay is due to a subcontractor and Hawaiian Electric’s removal of a utility pole, and that actual tank construction has not yet started. She committed to following up on whether future Hawaiian Homes development was accounted for in the project scope.

V. RESIDENT AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS – [0:39:44]

1. Kaelepulu Mini Park (Triangle Park) Restoration Update: Resident Malia Espinda thanked the Board Members, Councilmember Kiaʻāina, Department of Transportation Services Representative Kelly Akasaki, Department of Transportation Services Deputy Director Hong Li, Department of Parks and Recreation and Managing Director Michael Formby, for their support in restoring the Kaelepulu Mini Park. She reported that restoration work has begun, with tractors on site and an initial mound of dirt, following a successful community engagement meeting with approximately 40 attendees from surrounding streets. Member White added that he had spoken directly with the contractor and expressed confidence in the cleanup and landscaping plan. Chair Hicks and Members White and Weber offered additional mahalo to Espinda for her persistence and advocacy.
2. Chick-fil-A Potential Kailua Location: Kirra Downing, local consultant, announced preliminary plans for a potential Chick-fil-A drive-through-only location with a walk-up window near the Midas site at the corner of Hamakua Drive and Hahani Street (four parcels totaling approximately one acre). She shared that the project is in early due diligence, including feasibility studies, environmental assessments, an approved archaeological field work plan vetted by cultural descendants and the State Historic Preservation Division, and a traffic study. She also noted that a lease with Alexander & Baldwin is in place to explore the site and if approved, construction would be approximately three years away, with a Special Management Area Major Permit required, offering multiple opportunities for public engagement.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:47:48]
1. Lease vs. Purchase Status: Member Andrade asked whether there was a lease or purchase in place. Kirra Downing confirmed a lease with Alexander & Baldwin is in place to explore the site and that the project remains in early phases.
2. Alternative Site Locations: Member Kobayashi asked whether the company had looked at other locations in Kailua, noting potential traffic conflicts at the proposed site. Kirra Downing stated she could not speak to what other sites the real estate team had evaluated but acknowledged traffic and safety as top concerns.
3. Traffic Improvement Contributions: Member Righter asked whether Chick-fil-A would contribute to traffic improvements, noting past instances where businesses did not and created a burden on the community. Kirra Downing indicated the applicant is required to work with the Department of Planning and Permitting and the Traffic Review Branch and must submit an approved traffic mitigation plan.
4. Aikahi Shopping Center as Alternative: Member Kia suggested Aikahi Shopping Center as a less congested alternative site. Kirra Downing acknowledged the concern but did not have information on other sites evaluated.
5. Alexander & Baldwin Engagement: Member Weber asked to what extent Alexander & Baldwin should be engaged in community conversations about the lease and site concerns. Kirra Downing confirmed close weekly coordination with Alexander & Baldwin.
6. Referral to Planning, Zoning & Environment Committee: Treasurer Weller directed Kirra Downing to Member Wong of the Planning, Zoning & Environment Committee for follow-up. Kirra Downing offered to send the Board a follow-up email.

3. Holoholo Espresso Business Appreciation: The co-founder of Holoholo Espresso thanked the Windward community for support, noting a new location opening the following week at Keolu Shopping Center.
4. Enchanted Lake Property Survey and Maintenance Fee Dispute: Resident Randall Hew reported a dispute arising from a 2021 property survey that revealed his lot is smaller than the deed states. He noted that Enchanted Lake has 3,515 lots developed from 1958 to 1970, and that 137 lots around Kaelepulu Pond, including his, are subject to an Enchanted Lakes Resident Association declaration requiring annual maintenance fees for the lake, with the authority to place a lien on non-paying properties. He stated he believes the recorded declaration may be legally invalid and left documentation for the Board.
• Testimony: https://drive.google.com/file/d/19_2aNdUqDbmDixOgMMQ_RsjTVDM8CCTu/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:57:42]
1. Bishop Estate and Legal Options: Member Kobayashi asked whether he had contacted Bishop Estate and whether he had consulted an attorney. Randall Hew indicated Bishop Estate advised him to file suit, which is not financially feasible.

VI. MAYOR AND GOVERNOR REPORTS – [0:59:23]

A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Report – [0:59:31]: Shayne Enright highlighted items from the March 2026 newsletter including the 2026 Mayor’s Town Hall meetings, annual Hawaiʻi Food Bank Food Drive, and selection of Honolulu’s next Chief of Police. She also provided updates on three issues raised at the prior meeting: the houseless individual at Kailua District Park remains at the park by right with Honolulu Police Department and Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement (C.O.R.E.) having made numerous outreach attempts, a tent at Kailua Beach Park was partially modified to comply with park rules, and trash collection on Hualani Street will not be extended due to vehicle size and turning constraints requiring residents to continue bringing containers to the main road. Lastly, she noted that the City is continuing to support storm recovery efforts from the Kona low systems and directed the public to oneoahu.org for updated information and community resources.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:02:52]
1. Kapaʻa Quarry Road Stream Repairs: Treasurer Weller raised the issue of Kapaʻa Quarry Road, which was closed during the recent storms, preventing contractors in the industrial park from accessing their equipment and job sites. He urged that the streams on both sides of the road be repaired to prevent future closures and noted that the State should address its portion as well. Shayne Enright acknowledged the concern.

B. Governor Josh Green’s Report – [1:04:42]: Erin Conner-Jerome highlighted that the Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency’s storm recovery website, ready.hawaii.gov, has resources for those impacted. She also warned that another storm system may be approaching the islands the following week (Wednesday–Friday).
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GJOY4-OyryzqLUG3Do-85GxymIZQ9mEm/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:05:36]
1. Storm Response Evaluation: Treasurer Weller suggested the Governor initiate a comprehensive evaluation of all state departments involved in the storm response to identify failures and formulate a new plan to prevent similar issues in future storms.
2. Opposition to Kailua Landfill: Member White asked that the Governor be conveyed the community’s strong opposition to a landfill in Kailua, citing proximity to conservation land and risks highlighted by the recent flooding.
3. Housing for Storm-Displaced Residents: Member Andrade asked whether the government had compiled a listing of available housing units for storm-displaced residents. Erin Conner-Jerome noted that Schofield Barracks has opened some units for Waialua and Haleiwa residents and committed to finding more information. Member Weber noted that ready.hawaii.gov includes a housing section with links to request assistance.

VII. ELECTED OFFICIAL REPORTS – [1:09:35]

A. Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina – [1:09:48]: Councilmember Kiaʻāina centered her remarks on the upcoming City budget, highlighting key Capital Improvement Program funding for Kailua that includes $62.2 million for wastewater treatment plant improvements, $11 million for the Kapaʻa Transfer Station renovation, $100,000 for the Maunawili Wastewater Pump Station, continuation of development at the Kailua Beach Park boat ramp, and $2 million in grants and aid to expand nonprofit funding. She also reported successfully securing $500,000 for the Lanikai Transportation Management Plan in the budget committee after the Department of Transportation Services failed to include it, noting she had hoped to secure the full $700,000 but was unable to do so independently. Additionally, Councilmember Kiaʻāina advised that while the Department of Transportation Services has approved speed bumps for Kaha and Kaipiʻi Streets, the required 90% resident petition threshold has not yet been met, and she urged the Board and community to advance the petition or risk losing the funding.

Member Lau joined the meeting at 8:10 p.m. – 14 members present.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:13:18]
1. Speed Bumps at Parks and Schools: Member White expressed strong support for the speed bump funding, noting he has long advocated for speed bumps near parks and schools to protect children. Councilmember Kiaʻāina responded that she had separately secured funding for reduced speed limit signage at school zones on the Windward side, and acknowledged that extending speed bumps to parks would require additional work
2. Nuʻupia Pond Sewage Spill: Member Wong asked whether a recent sewage spill in the Nuʻupia Pond originated from the Marine Corps Base treatment plant or from Aikahi. Councilmember Kiaʻāina indicated they did not believe it came from the Marine Corps Base, but committed to providing a definitive answer early the following week and disseminating it directly to the Board.
3. 90% Petition Requirement for Speed Bumps: Member Barra asked whether the Department of Transportation Services always requires 90% resident agreement before installing speed bumps, expressing concern that Kaha Street should not face greater barriers than neighboring streets that already received them. Councilmember Kiaʻāina confirmed that the Department of Transportation Services requires a petition reaching 90% of the delineated addresses before proceeding, and explained that she is being proactive by securing funding now to avoid the common scenario where signatures are gathered but no money is available.
4. Denied Speed Bump Assessment on Ulupii Street: Member Righter shared that she had previously requested a speed bump assessment for Ulupii Street between Kalanianaʻole Highway and Kailua High School and was denied because average speeds were at the limit. She noted that student speeding during school arrival and departure remains a problem and that a no-right-turn sign is consistently unenforced. Councilmember Kiaʻāina offered to submit her own request to the Department of Transportation Services to reassess the circumstances.
5. No-Parking Signs and Four-Way Stop at Marsh Park: Member Lau asked for an update on no-parking signs at the entrance of Marsh park area. Councilmember Kiaʻāina stated she did not have an update but committed to following up. She added that funding for the dog park is being finalized, and that she would not move forward with fencing without first addressing the dangerous intersection at the park entrance. Member Weber added that community concerns include converting the intersection into a four-way stop, which Councilmember Kiaʻāina agreed to add to her request to the Department of Transportation Services.

B. Representative Lisa Marten – [1:22:24]: Representative Marten honored Kumu Earl Kawaa, an Enchanted Lake resident, on the House floor for his program training over 10,000 families to carve their own board and stone while learning Hawaiian cultural practices. At crossover, she reported progress on bills to: create a single state benefits portal for residents; ban PFAS (forever chemicals); develop new financial tools for wildlife habitat; address predatory towing practices; and block legislation to eliminate parking minimums statewide. Lastly, she noted that the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) prevention tool distribution events in Kailua (approximately 100 attendees) and Waimānalo were successful and free traps, netting, and education remain available at CRBhawaii.org/community.

C. Representative Mike Lee – [1:27:33]: Jonah McNear opened his remarks by expressing gratitude to the Kailua community for their resilience during recent storms, highlighting how neighbors came together to clear debris, share resources, and check on one another. He outlined several legislative priorities, including House Bill (HB) 2021 addressing e-bike rider and pedestrian safety, House Bill (HB) 2361 aimed at strengthening the Kāneʻohe Bay Regional Council’s advisory role, and House Bill (HB) 1588 focused on reducing noise pollution on Hawaiʻi’s roadways through a noise detection program. Lastly, Jonah McNear announced that Representative Lee has been nominated to represent Hawaiʻi in the Melissa Hortman Emerging Leaders Program.

D. Representative Scot Matayoshi – [1:30:16]: No representative present.

E. Senator Jarrett Keohokalole – [1:30:29]: No representative present.

F. Senator Chris Lee – [1:30:30]: No representative present.

G. Tolua Samifua, on behalf of U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda – [1:30:59]: Tolua Samifua reported that Representative Tokuda toured the Waialua and North Shore areas following the second storm and is actively working with State and City partners on recovery efforts, including exploring federal land debris clearance to improve water flow, and has co-signed the congressional delegation’s support for Governor Green’s major disaster declaration request to the President to release federal funds. She also noted that their office is available every Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the City’s recovery assistance center in Waiʻālua to help residents replace lost federal documents, including U.S. passports, Social Security cards, and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) documents.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ahIPDaVtZF23nmHieE8CuUoeVX5osv6S/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:34:33]
1. Gas Price Impacts: Member Kobayashi expressed concern about significant increases in gas prices affecting Hawaiʻi residents due to international and national events and asked Representative Tokuda’s office to work with the congressional delegation on relief. Tolua Samifua acknowledged the concern.
2. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Resource Clarification: Member Weber noted that the resource sheet from Representative Tokuda’s office included Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance, which is not yet available without a federal disaster declaration, and asked for clarification. Tolua Samifua confirmed the intent was to prepare residents in advance and committed to clarifying the communication.

VIII. REPORTS FROM MEMBERS WHO ATTENDED OTHER MEETINGS – [1:38:48]: No reports were given.

IX. PRESENTATIONS – [1:38:57]

A. Kalaheo Hillside Soil Sample Results – [1:30:06]: Treasurer Weller noted that the Kalaheo Hillside Soil Sample Results presentation has been postponed.

• Food Waste Curbside Collection 6-Month Pilot Program (GROW) – [1:39:26]: Henry Gabriel, Recycling Program Branch Chief for the City and County of Honolulu Department of Environmental Services, presented an overview of the Green Recycling Organic Waste (GROW) pilot program, which launched on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 in select communities including Kailua, Nānākuli, Hawaiʻi Kai, and Mililani, with plans to expand island-wide by October 2026 in support of the City’s goal of 95% landfill diversion by 2030. He explained that residents may place food scraps such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, meats, bones, shells, cooked foods, and loose coffee grounds or tea directly into the green composting cart alongside green waste without bags, and encouraged residents to freeze food waste beforehand to minimize odor and pests. He also noted that liquids, plastics, metals, glass, grease, and pet waste should not be placed in the green cart, and that residents may also drop off food waste at no charge at Hawaiian Earth Recycling in Waiʻanae, with additional information available at honolulu.gov/env/grow.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/165G1R1DsO3nmw1na7Mxmp3JDGClIZwQx/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:47:31]
1. Community Outreach and Program Awareness: Member Kobayashi asked what outreach was done to inform residents about the program, noting many may still be unaware. Henry Gabriel stated that postcard mailers were sent to households in the pilot areas, workshops were held, and media spots were aired, acknowledging that outreach is an ongoing effort.
2. Duration of the Pilot Program: Member Kobayashi asked how long the pilot would run. Henry Gabriel confirmed the program will go island-wide by October 2026 and the pilot period is being used to assess participation rates, contamination levels, and frequency of collection.
3. Odor Management and Convenience Tips: Member Kobayashi asked about practical tips to manage odor and convenience, noting the learning curve for new composters. Henry Gabriel recommended freezing food waste, layering it with green waste in the cart, using baking soda or coffee grounds, and keeping the lid closed. He emphasized that no bags of any kind should be used and directed residents to contact the recycling branch or visit honolulu.gov/env/grow.
4. Commercial Participation: Member Righter asked whether restaurants and commercial establishments could participate in the GROW program, to which Henry Gabriel clarified that the current pilot is limited to residential automated collection. He noted, however, that a separate commercial food waste composting program exists and that following a successful pilot with small and medium restaurants in Chinatown, the City is working toward amending the existing ordinance to expand commercial participation.
5. Compostable Bags and Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Concerns: Member Weber asked about the status of compostable bags in the program. Henry Gabriel explained that compostable packaging is currently excluded due to concerns about PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination in many certified compostable products. He noted that the department is working with the Department of Health to establish safe thresholds and is monitoring House Bill (HB) 6444, a statewide PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) regulation bill currently moving through the Legislature.
6. Paper Bags as Liners: Member Kobayashi asked whether paper bags could be used as liners in the kitchen container, noting they make transfer easier. Henry Gabriel explained that brown paper bags have high recycling value and should be recycled rather than composted, and that the program strongly prefers food waste be placed loose – without any liner – to avoid contamination.
7. Impact on Landfill Usage: Resident Malia Espinda asked how diverting food waste would impact the current landfill timeline, noting community concern about the future landfill location. Henry Gabriel explained that the Waimānalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill is scheduled to close by 2028, and the recycling branch’s goal is waste diversion from the waste stream entirely, rather than simply extending landfill life. He noted that 160,000 tons of food waste are generated residentially each year, and diverting it reduces pressure on both H-Power and the landfill.

B. Unmarked Native Hawaiian Burial Sites in Kailua – [2:04:55]: Thomas Dye, representing the Oʻahu Historic Preservation Commission, reported on the Commission’s response to a complaint by the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs that unmarked human burials in Kailua are being denied historic preservation protection. He noted that the Commission’s due diligence report estimates the number of unmarked burials remaining in Kailua likely numbers in the thousands. He also presented three initiatives: (1) A Geographic Information System (GIS)-based sensitivity map classifying parcels as high or low probability for unmarked burials to be presented to the Oʻahu Island Burial Council and the Commission later this month; (2) Historic preservation tax credits for burial stewards, modeled on stewardship programs in Nuʻuanu and Mānoa, with support from Councilmember Kiaʻāina’s office; (3) A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the State Historic Preservation Division and the Department of Planning and Permitting to ensure development projects in Kailua are forwarded for review.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yoFPUjcCmn2zjdjxY3kqdqkgF12rPPU9/view?usp=drive_link
• Resolution – Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1b_5DmqX_lVyYPQItZJ6hmHdZ1rjYy9qq/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:11:50]
1. Civic Clubs Resolution Clarification: Member Wong asked whether the resolution provided by Thomas Dye was the same resolution previously passed by the Kailua Neighborhood Board or one submitted by the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs. Member Weber noted that the resolution may be the same version.
2. Stronger Special Management Area (SMA) Language for Burial Review: Member Wong noted the Planning, Zoning & Environment Committee routinely includes burial assessment language in Special Management Area (SMA) major permit reviews and asked whether stronger language could be used given the Commission’s findings. Thomas Dye expressed gratitude and offered to work with the Committee to strengthen the language. Member Wong invited Dye to present to the Committee for further discussion.
3. Invitation to Present to Planning, Zoning & Environment Committee: Member Kobayashi asked whether Dye would be willing to present to the Planning, Zoning & Environment Committee to help the Board better understand what is missing and how it can facilitate discussions between the community and the city. Thomas Dye welcomed the invitation and confirmed his intent to attend a future committee meeting.
4. Impact on Homeowner Projects When Burials Are Found: Resident Randall Hew asked what happens to a homeowner’s project if Hawaiian remains are discovered during construction. Thomas Dye explained that the project stops temporarily until proper treatment of the remains is arranged. He noted that the Commission’s sensitivity map and burial steward program are designed to help landowners plan in advance, avoiding costly mid-project delays. He shared examples from Maui where homeowners built raised pool platforms to keep excavation above burial levels, allowing projects to proceed while respecting the burials.
5. Burial Concentration Locations in Kailua: Member Trecker asked whether Thomas Dye could identify the three or four main concentrations of burials in Kailua so the Board could inform constituents. Thomas Dye confirmed that St. Anthony’s Church area is the greatest known concentration, but stated he did not have the full list on hand. He noted the sensitivity map, once adopted by the Commission, will identify all hot spots and can be shared with the Board.
6. Kailua Community Parking Lot Archaeological Work: Member Lau noted that an active burial survey appears to be shutting down portions of the Kailua community parking lot and asked whether the Commission is aware of the project. Thomas Dye stated he was not familiar with that specific project, noting the Commission is volunteer-based and only knows what the City shares. Member Lau expressed frustration that responsible organizations conducting burial work lack coordination with City administrators and that businesses and the community bear the cost of poor planning.

X. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – [2:29:15]: Treasurer Weller called for approval of the minutes from the Thursday, December 4, 2025, Thursday, February 19, 2026, and Thursday, March 5, 2026 regular meetings. The minutes were APPROVED without any corrections or objections.
[2:29:46] Hearing no objections, Treasurer Weller inadvertently bypassed Item XI: Three Meeting Absences and proceeded to Committee Reports.

XII. COMMITTEE REPORTS – [2:29:46]: No committee reports were given.

XIII. COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP MOTIONS – [2:30:06]: Member Weber requested to be removed from the Community and Government Engagement Committee. No other changes were noted.

[2:30:50] Chair Hicks requested to address the agenda item regarding three meeting absences, and Treasurer Weller invited him to proceed.

XI. THREE MEETING ABSENCES – [2:31:14]: Chair Hicks explained that when a Board member misses three meetings in a one-year term, the Neighborhood Commission Office initiates action to verify the member wishes to continue, and the matter must be placed on the agenda. He also shared that Member Andrade had three absences — one in July due to a work-required off-island trip, one in October due to a pre-existing conflict, and one in December due to personal illness. Chair Hicks thanked all 19 volunteer members for their service to Kailua, noted the matter had been addressed, and recommended moving on. No motion was made.

XIV. CHAIR’S REPORT – [2:33:23]: Treasurer Weller announced that Committee agendas for May 2026 are due to the Chair by Sunday, April 26, 2026.

XV. ADJOURNMENT – [2:33:38]: The meeting was adjourned at 9:35 p.m.

Submitted by: Melissa Urubio, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Robert Whitsell, Deputy, NCO
Finalized by: Bill Hicks, Chairman, Kailua Neighborhood Board

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.