KAILUA NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 31
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025, 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=m0576cdb024d15b30bfd6c01ecb868a44
Meeting number (access code): 2492 696 7184
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, Brandon Tsark, for assistance at: brandon.tsark@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. Kailua Beach Park Operating Hours. The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) intends to start a 3-month pilot project in September to modify the operating hours to become 4 am until 12 midnight. This is loosely consistent with recommendations from the Kailua Neighborhood Board in 2023 and 2024. Most Oahu beach parks are currently closed from 10 pm until 5 am. This trial period is intended to explore the impact of nightly closures and DPR will work with the community, Kailua Neighborhood Board, and other City agencies to determine the effectiveness of these nightly closures, and whether they should be implemented permanently. Any closed City park may be traversed at any time, particularly to access the ocean or other natural or culturally significant areas, however it is illegal to remain in a park during closure hours unless otherwise permitted by DPR.
B. Kailua Emergency Preparedness Fair. The fair will be held on Saturday September 13, 2025, from 9:00 am until noon, at the Kailua Town Center, 609 Kailua Road (near the Ulta Beauty Store).
C. Kailua Fall Festival. The 4th annual festival will take place on Saturday September 27th from 4 pm until 10 pm on Hahani Street. It is a night of award winning musical acts and entertainment (Kapena, Big Every Time (BET), Nesian 9, Irie Love, Lion Dance, hula, and more), 120 vendors, food, drinks, and fun for the entire family! This is a free event to attend and enjoy. Parking & trolley ride is available at Kainalu Elementary School with a presale price of $8 per vehicle or $3 per rider with funds going to Kainalu’s JPO Program. If you’re 21 and want to have a beverage at any of the participating bars, you may purchase the event wristband good for cover charges and a stein. Details at https://kailuaevents.com/
D. The Kailua Windsports Association, a local nonprofit ocean-based organization that embraces all disciplines of wind sports, is hosting a community fun day featuring a “Kailua Windsports Association Fall Classic 2025” in which up to 75 windsurfers and kiteboarders will tour Kailua Bay. In accordance with DLNR and DPR regulations, the 5-mile course will begin and end at Kailua Beach Park Area A, the area designated for wind sports near the entrance of Kailua Beach Park locally known as “Kite Beach”. The event has a safety plan, two safety escort vessels, liability insurance, and DLNR and DPR permits pending. Subject to favorable weather and wind conditions, the event is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, September 20th with back-up dates September 27th, or October 4th, 2025.
E. Uloha Kailua ½ Marathon. This 13.14 mile race will take place on Sunday September 28th. The course loops through Lanikai, then rolls down Kalaheo before doing a challenging and scenic loop going up Mokapu, and returning back via Kaneohe Bay Drive and then back along Kalaheo to the finish at Kailua Beach Park. Details at https://raceroster.com/events/2025/98198/uloha-kailua-half-marathon
F. Climate Action Public Input. The Draft City and County of Honolulu 2025-2030 Climate Action Plan at https://resilientoahu.konveio.com/2025capcommunity is now open for public comment until September 12, 2025. Additionally, the Draft State of Hawaii Climate Action Pathways (CAP) report at https://hiclimate.consider.it/?tab=Introduction is also now open for public comment until September 30, 2025.
III. HPD and HFD 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: COMMITTEE MOTION
A. In response to the City and County of Honolulu’s request for stormwater infrastructure solutions from the community to help mitigate pollution in Kailua’s waterways, improve water quality and the health of Kaelepulu Watershed, the Kailua Neighborhood Board recommends consideration of the following three initiatives:
(1) Build a new berm at the Kaopa Silt Basin to restore its designed functionality
(2) Provide additional curb inlet screens and trash collection boxes in storm drains
(3) Implement a trash and sediment capture structure at Keolu Channel
(Kailua Water Quality PHPSCD Subcommittee motion)
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)
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. Representative Scot Matayoshi.
B. Senator Chris Lee.
C. Representative Lisa Marten.
D. Representative Mike Lee.
E. Councilmember Esther Kia’aina.
F. Senator Jarrett Keohokalole.
G. Tolua Samifua, on behalf of U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda.
IX. REPORTS FROM MEMBERS WHO ATTENDED OTHER MEETINGS
X. PRESENTATIONS – Ten (10) minutes each
A. 411 Dune Circle TMK (1) 4-3-017:053 SMA Major Permit Application by Mark Howland, Whale Environmental Services
B. Ko’olau Resilience Hub Network by Joe Wat, KEY Project
C. Kailua Neighborhood Board 2025 Survey Responses by Levani Lipton
XI. BOARD BUSINESS: INDIVIDUAL MOTION
A. In response to the Department of Parks and Recreation’s request for input on revised dog regulations in Kailua parks, the Kailua Neighborhood Board recommends:
1. The exploration of fenced, off-leash dog parks at Kawainui Park and Maunawili Valley Neighborhood Park.
2. The following parks retain on-leash privileges: The rest of Kawainui Park that would not be off-leash, Kaʻelepulu Mini Park, Enchanted Lake Community Park, and Pōhākupu Mini Park.
3. The following parks should be considered for new on-leash dog privileges: Kalama Beach Park, Kailua District Park, Kailua Beach Park, and Maunawili Neighborhood Park.
4. The following parks should NOT be considered for dog privileges: ‘Aikahi Community Park, Kalaheo Neighborhood Park and Keolu Hills Neighborhood Park.
XII. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Thursday, August 7, 2025 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 October 2025 are due to the Chair by Sunday, September 21, 2025.
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, 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
THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 AT 7:00 PM
KAILUA DISTRICT PARK, MULTIPURPOSE ROOM, 21 SOUTH KAINALU DRIVE, KAILUA, HI 96734
AND VIA WEBEX
Video Recording of Meeting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQF_Xn_kX4o
Google Drive Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1t7pXEx-Xn6l_ZVmmmoTvqF84EifuBbGn
I. Call To Order [0:00:30]: Vice Chair Levani Lipton served as Acting Chair and called the Kailua Neighborhood Board No. 31 meeting to order at 7:00 pm. Quorum was established with 17 members present. Note: this 19-member board requires a majority of 10 members to establish quorum and conduct board business.
Board Members Present: Emily Andrade, Bruce Andrews, Jennifer Barra, Ana Malia Kia, Kelli Ann Kobayashi (joined 7:05 pm), David Laeha, Jade, Lau, Levani Lipton, Max Markrich, Kate Righter (joined 7:25 pm), Kalama Souza, Steve Trecker, Jeremy Treskon, Gary Weller, Jon White, Donna Wong, and Evan Weber
Board Members Absent: Bill Hicks and Malie Thoemmes
Total Guests 132: Officer Jarret Atkins (Honolulu Police Department HPD), Firefighter Kalama Souza (Honolulu Fire Department HFD), Lieutenant Tristan Fabro (Honolulu Ocean Safety Department HOSD), Ms. Danielle Ornellas (Board of Water Supply BWS), President Chase Aalborg (Adventist Health Castle) Public Information Officer Shayne Enright (Honolulu Emergency Services Department HESD and Representative from Mayor Blangiardi’s Office), Councilmember Esther Kiaʻaina (Honolulu City Council CCL), Ms. Erin Conner-Jerome (Representative from Governor Green’s Office), Representative Lisa Marten (Representative Lisa Marten), Mr. Tolua Samifua (Representative Jill Tokuda), Arlene, Iliaina, Kalaheo Hillside Neighborhood Association, Kanoelehua, MM, Moritsugu, Nathalie, Rebecca and Jim, Stephanie, Carol Abe, Zeema Akau, Alani Apio, Bronson Azama, Bob Bourke, Bob Bruhl, Mike Buck, Brennan C, Pat Caldwell, Mahane Coleman, Tahouu Coleman, Jerry Davis, Kia De Silva, Mappuana De Silva, Chris Evans, Chris Fong, Frederick Fong, Nicole Fong, Barbara Geronnau, Cheyenne Greg, Kim Gould, John Huck, Richard Ihoke, Susie Jannuzzi, John Junk, Mary K Junk, Keanu K., Corbett Kamoa Kelanc, Napoleon Koloinua, Barboura Krasuieioski, Kaliko Loveland, Blanche McMillan, Maile Mechler, Judy Mick, Rich and Michelle Milner, Wynn Miyamoto, John Nakamoego, Malia Peters, David Pound, Alan Richardson, Kim Ryan, Donald Sakamoto, Sharon Sawdey, Uta Tanginoa, David Tanoue, Cat Taschue, David Tomo, Ian W, Kali Watson, Ted Wen, David White (Residents and Community Members); Brandon Tsark (Neighborhood Commission Office NCO). Note: name may not be included if illegible, inaudible, or otherwise withheld for record-keeping purposes.
II. ANNOUNCEMENTS [0:03:15]:
Certificate of Appreciation to Sean Dupee of Forever Stone [0:03:15]: Chair Lipton and the Kailua Neighborhood Board expressed their gratitude to Mr. Sean Dupee of Forever Stone for loaning the use of his flatbed truck for use in the annual Kailua 4th of July Parade.
Kailua Legislative Town Hall [0:04:30]: Kailua Legislative Town Hall for House District 50 (Representative Mike Lee) will be held on Tuesday August 19, 2025 at Kailua District Park at 6 pm. Several members of House leadership, including the House Speaker, will also be attending.
Kobayashi arrived at 7:05 p.m., 16 members present.
III. HPD AND HFD REPORTS [0:05:15]:
Honolulu Police Department [0:05:15]: Officer Jarret Atkins from the District 4 Community Policing Team reported crime statistics for July (3 motor vehicle thefts, 4 burglaries, 24 thefts, 5 car break-ins, and 1 robbery).
Honolulu Fire Department [0:06:40]: Firefighter Kalama Souza reported July statistics (1 structure fire, 1 brush fire, 1 nuisance fire, 14 activated alarms, 91 medical emergencies, 7 vehicle collisions, 1 mountain rescue, and 1 ocean rescue), and followed up on last meeting by providing information about the State Fire Marshall’s role and emergency notification systems.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:10:45]
Resident asked how many emergency calls were received from smartwatches. Firefighter Souza responded that he did not have the information but would research it for next meeting.
Board Member Laeha inquired about plans to improve traffic during tsunami evacuations. Firefighter Souza explained that while HFD assists with alerts, traffic management during evacuation is HPD’s jurisdiction.
Honolulu Ocean Safety Department [0:13:25]: Lieutenant Tristan Fabro reported statistics for July regarding beaches from Kailua boat ramp to Castles that detail approximately 150,000 visitors and 13,000 preventative actions, which involve making contact with beachgoers unfamiliar with conditions to prevent dangerous situations.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:14:20]
Board Member Laeha inquired about tsunami response takeaways and improvements for ocean safety, as well as water being shut off at Sandy Beach bathrooms and showers during the tsunami event. The Lieutenant explained that public response to beach clearing was effective, acknowledged traffic issues, and recommended that everyone follow directions from authorities during emergencies.
IV. BOARD BUSINESS: COMMITTEE MOTION [0:16:40]:
Resolution to Adopt Community Points of Distribution [0:16:40]:
Board Member Treskon who is serving as Chair of the Public Safety, Public Health, and Civil Defense Committee, motioned to adopt a resolution to establish Community Points of Distribution (CPODs) throughout Kailua to provide essential goods and services during emergencies when the Windward side might be isolated from the rest of the island. Furthermore, the resolution seeks the endorsement of CPODs by Elected Officials [17:00]. Board Member White seconded [18:30].
Chair opened the floor for discussion. Resident Claudine Tomasa provided detailed information regarding specific CPOD sites under consideration. She fielded questions from board members asking clarifying questions regarding locations, accessibility, involvement with City and County of Honolulu (City or CCH) and State of Hawaiʻi (State) departments, budget, and funding.
Hearing no further comments, Chair closed discussion and called the question. A roll-call vote followed, with Chair announcing that the ayes have it and the motion to support the resolution is adopted, 16-0-0 (Aye: Andrade, Andrews, Barra, Kia, Kobayashi, Laeha, Lau, Lipton, Markrich, Souza, Trecker, Treskon, Weber, Weller, White, and Wong, No: None, Abstain: None) [0:25:50].
Righter arrived at 7:25 p.m., 17 members present.
No-Parking Restrictions between Kaha and Kaipiʻi and Entrance to Kawainui Park [0:28:00]:
Board Member Lau who is serving as Chair of the Transportation and Public Works Committee, motioned that the Kailua Neighborhood Board submits the following recommendations to the Department of Transportation Services (DTS): implement no-parking restrictions on both sides of Kaha Street between the intersection of Kaha Street and Kaipi’i Street and the entrance to Kawainui Park (often referred to as Kaha Park). This very short section of roadway (approximately 100 feet) is excessively congested due to heavy park usage and vehicles parked in this short section often block driveways, encroach into the intersection, and can affect park ingress and egress. Board Member Weber seconded [29:10].
Chair opened the floor for discussion. Board Member Weber explained that the park has become very popular for dog use, impacting residents in unacceptable ways, and the proposed restrictions would help maintain quality of life for neighbors. Board Member White asked for clarification about the specific area where parking would be restricted. Resident Kaliko Loveland described how parked cars reduce the road to a single lane with two-way traffic, creating safety hazards for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, and noted several crashes have already occurred. Board Member Kobayashi asked what other mitigation measures had been explored and expressed concern about displacing parking to other areas. Board Member Weber clarified that the restriction would affect only 3-4 parking spaces, but would significantly improve safety at a dangerous intersection that lacks a four-way stop.
Hearing no further comments, Chair closed discussion and called the question. A roll-call vote followed, with Chair announcing that the ayes have it and the motion is adopted, 14-0-3 (Aye: Andrade, Andrews, Barra, Kia, Lau, Lipton, Markrich, Righter, Souza, Trecker, Treskon, Weber, Weller, and White, No: None, Abstain: Kobayashi, Laeha, and Wong) [0:38:10].
V. Local-Agency Reports [0:40:15]:
Board of Water Supply Representative [0:40:40]: No representative present.
Marine Corps Base Hawaii Representative [0:41:05]: No representative present.
Adventist Health Castle [0:41:30]: President Chase Aalborg provided updates on hospital achievements and projects, including receiving five-star designation from Medicare/Medicaid and an “A” rating from the Leapfrog Group (the only Hawaii hospital with both awards), progress on the Hawaii Loa campus sale, solar panel installation plans, upcoming facility master planning, new CT scanner installation, and improved psychiatric patient discharge processes in coordination with state and county officials.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:44:25]
Board Member Trecker asked if the hospital could provide statistics on waterborne illnesses to support the board’s water quality subcommittee work. President Aalborg confirmed they could research and provide this information while maintaining patient confidentiality.
Board Member Weller inquired about the hospital’s emergency power capabilities and whether solar panels would enhance their ability to serve during emergencies. President Aalborg explained that emergency planning is part of their facility master plan to ensure appropriate backup power systems.
Board Member White asked about psychiatric patient transfers. President Aalborg responded by saying that they coordinate with Queen’s Hospital based on availability and district maps, and are working with Governor Green on funding for proper post-discharge care.
Board Member Laeha inquired about implications of healthcare legislation (referred to as “one big beautiful bill”) on Medicare and Medicaid funding. President Aalborg noted the $4 billion impact on Hawaii, explained that existing provisions help protect Medicaid temporarily, and assured that the hospital is planning accordingly to manage expenses.
VI. Presentations [0:51:10]:
Kihapai Place Apartment Project [0:51:10]: Senior Investment Associate Chris Fong from Tradewind Capital presented plans for an affordable housing development at 734-735 Kihapai Place, explaining that the 25,000 square foot site previously housed apartments until 2004 and was acquired by the City in 2023 specifically for affordable housing development, with Tradewind Capital selected as the developer through a competitive process.
The project will include:
• 42 one and two-bedroom affordable rental units for residents earning up to 60% of Area Median Income (some units at 30% AMI)
• Four stories total (three residential floors above ground-floor parking)
• 53 on-site parking stalls plus one loading stall
• Compliance with A-2 zoning requirements including 40-foot height limit
• Financing through low-income housing tax credits and private activity bonds
• Projected timeline: building permit application in early 2026, financing application in February 2026, construction beginning late 2026, and completion in summer 2028
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:03:15]
In response to a question about the cultural review process, Cultural Consultant Alani Apio explained they’ve been working with recognized cultural descendants for over a year, conducting archaeological surveys, and developing protocols for handling any iwi kūpuna.
Resident Bronson Azama expressed opposition to the removal of iwi kūpuna at 734-735 Kihapai Place for an affordable housing development. He raised concerns about disrespectful treatment of iwi, lack of cultural practitioners present during work, and other issues including impacts on native birds, traffic, and neighborhood character.
Board Member Donna Wong inquired about proximity to Kawainui Marsh and environmental impacts. Mr. Fong confirmed they’re working with environmental consultants to ensure compliance, noting the project is outside the marsh boundary and will include stormwater management systems.
Board Member Jon White asked about the affordability period. Mr. Fong stated units would remain affordable for a minimum of 61 years under their ground lease with the City, with rents restricted to 30% of residents’ income.
In response to a question about cultural impacts and traditional protocols, Mr. Apio assured they’ve established a comprehensive cultural monitoring plan with input from recognized descendants and will follow all proper protocols under state law.
Board Member Weller asked about sustainability features. Mr. Fong described plans for solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and water conservation measures to be incorporated into the final design.
Board Member Laeha questioned whether Kailua residents would receive preference in tenant selection. Mr. Fong explained that while fair housing laws prevent preference based solely on residency, they would conduct extensive local marketing.
Resident David expressed concern about the project’s proximity to Kawainui Marsh and asked if the building would be elevated at least 5 feet above the marsh level to account for potential flooding. Mr. Fong confirmed they are working with civil engineers to ensure proper elevation and drainage systems, noting that the finished floor elevation would be designed to exceed flood requirements and protect the structure from potential marsh water level increases.
Resident Alyssa Vanderson a mother of three who lives at Kihapai Pl raised concerns about traffic impacts. Mr. Fong noted their traffic study indicated minimal impact given the site’s previous use as apartments and the inclusion of adequate on-site parking.
Board Member Kobayashi asked about the adequacy of parking given the project’s 42 units. Mr. Fong explained that their 53 parking stalls exceed the number of units, providing sufficient parking for both residents and guests, which was a priority in their design to avoid impacts on street parking in the neighborhood.
Board Member Lipton asked about future community engagement. Mr. Fong committed to returning with updates as the project progresses and maintaining open communication with neighbors throughout development.
Kalaheo Hillside Update [1:36:55]: Director Kali Watson from State Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) presented on the proposed transfer of the 10-acre Kalaheo Hillside property to DHHL for developing residential homesites for Native Hawaiian beneficiaries, providing historical context about the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1920 and explaining that despite being established over 100 years ago, poor land quality and insufficient funding resulted in only about 10,000 homesteads while 29,000 Native Hawaiians remain on waitlists today. He emphasized they are in the preliminary due diligence phase, with soil samples collected and awaiting analysis (expected in 8 weeks), after which civil engineers will develop a preliminary engineering report evaluating utilities, drainage, and stormwater control (taking 8-12 weeks). Director Watson committed that any development would be consistent with the existing R-7.5 zoning and neighborhood character, not high-rises or townhouses, and assured that they would design the project to avoid exacerbating any soil stability issues in the area, emphasizing their commitment to being good neighbors while fulfilling their mission to return Native Hawaiians to their ancestral lands
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:50:30]
Board Member Markrich asked how DHHL and the City arrived at selecting this particular site and what alternatives were considered. Director Watson praised the City Council for their initiative in transferring lands to DHHL, explaining that they’re seeking better-located lands for Native Hawaiians rather than isolated areas, including acquisitions on multiple islands and high-rise development overlooking Diamond Head.
Board Member Jon White expressed support for the project and asked if there was any evidence the development might not be possible due to soil conditions. Director Watson explained they’re studying the adobe soil depth and may need to use pier foundations to bedrock or extensive excavation with engineered fill, assuring that whatever approach they take will be solid, safe, and durable.
Board Member Donna Wong asked if DHHL would self-permit the project. Director Watson explained they have legal authority to self-permit and are considering it for vertical construction to avoid lengthy delays with county permitting departments, noting they’ve hired a former Director of DPP to develop suggestions and are exploring third-party inspections, but emphasized they would fully comply with environmental requirements.
Board Member Lipton asked if the company GeoLabs, which is conducting soil sampling, could present their findings to the public, emphasizing the importance of transparency, especially since residents are concerned about their homes and potential future developments. Board Member Kobayashi echoed these concerns, wanting specifics from GeoLabs about their work and timelines to alleviate community worries about the project’s impact.
Board Member Laeha raised financial concerns, questioning the city’s decision to transfer a $10 million asset and the implications for property taxes. He also scrutinized DHHL’s agricultural land usage, advocating for Native Hawaiian preference in leases. Additionally, he expressed concerns about grading work being conducted without permits, potentially illegal and environmentally harmful. Director Watson responded by framing the land transfer as a commitment to supporting Native Hawaiian housing rather than a financial giveaway. He emphasized legal and financial obligations, comparing it to other counties’ support mechanisms. Regarding grading, he assured that no grading would occur until thorough analyses and environmental assessments were completed, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.
Board Member Treskon posed several questions to Director Watson, inquiring about the number of Hawaiian Homestead locations in Kailua, the site’s history as designated for a school, and the plans for the property’s development. He also asked about zoning compliance, specifically whether the project would meet the 7.5 zoning requirements for Kalaheo Hillside, and raised concerns about grading and geotechnical engineering, including the potential use of micropilings for a secure foundation. Additionally, he commented on self-permitting, suggesting it could push DPP to improve permit processing efficiency. Director Watson responded by explaining the site’s past as a planned school and later a higher-density development, both of which were abandoned, and outlined their current plans for a neighborhood-consistent development. He confirmed compliance with 7.5 zoning, discussed the consideration of soil samples and micropilings for a sustainable foundation, and addressed self-permitting, expressing reservations but acknowledging its potential necessity.
Resident Cleopatra expressed her concerns about the historical theft of Hawaiian land in 1958 and demanded restitution of both land and money to restore the land to its original vision under traditional governance. She shared her personal struggles, including being tortured, imprisoned, and enslaved, highlighting the systemic injustices faced by her people. She criticized the system for not addressing these issues properly and emphasized the need for acknowledgment and proper representation in government dealings.
Mr. David Tanoue from RM Towill Corporation addressed concerns about a grading violation, explaining that there was no violation, but excessive clearing had occurred, and that DPP had put them on notice. The contractor had cleared too much land, up to 22 feet in some areas, which was wider than necessary, and additional environmental maps and Best Management Practices (BMPs) were required to control runoff. DPP had issued a notice of non-compliance, but there was no formal violation.
Resident Pat Caldwell expressed his concerns about the development, questioning why the developers would choose to build on a complex and problematic area, given the challenges of working with the soil and the potential risks to nearby homes. He noted that the soil in the area is prone to slipping and expanding, and that the construction process would require massive equipment and pounding, which could cause damage to nearby foundations. As a meteorologist with 35 years of experience, he expressed his concern about the potential risks of flash flooding in the area, particularly during heavy rainfall events.
Board Member White acknowledged the community’s concerns about the development, sharing his personal background and family history in Hawaii, which dates back 64 generations. He emphasized the importance of careful planning and consideration of the area’s soil and infrastructure challenges, while also highlighting the need to support Native Hawaiian families. He urged the community to give DHHL the opportunity to conduct due diligence and address concerns.
Resident and CEO Stacy Ferreira from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) expressed strong support for DHHL’s efforts to develop the Kalaheo Hillside site for residential use, emphasizing its importance for affordable housing and Native Hawaiian families. She highlighted OHA’s alignment with DHHL’s mission to improve living conditions and ensure equitable access to housing, while also supporting measures to address drainage and other environmental concerns. She advocated for allowing DHHL the time and space to complete its planning and outreach efforts to ensure the project’s success.
Resident Aunty Judy Mick shared historical and scientific concerns about the Kalaheo Hillside area, citing a 1952 soil study that deemed the land unstable due to clay content and unsuitable for construction. She noted that despite this, hundreds of homes were built, leading to significant damage over the years, including cracked foundations and collapsed walls, which residents have spent heavily to repair. She strongly opposed further construction, warning that disturbing the soil would exacerbate existing damage and put future homes at risk.
Resident Napoleon Koloinua expressed pride in the Kailua community’s unity and shared values, emphasizing the importance of trusting their leaders and preserving their land. She voiced frustration over the need for constant education on Hawaiian rights and history, and highlighted concerns about environmental issues like soil erosion. She also highlighted the need for housing and the return of land to Hawaiian people, emphasizing that it is their right.
Resident David Pound raised concerns about the potential environmental impacts of development on the community, particularly regarding stormwater runoff and infrastructure. He emphasized the need for transparency and communication from the city and developers, and requested a two-way conversation to address community concerns. He also mentioned the risk of hurricanes and heavy rains, and the potential for mud and water to flow into neighboring properties, causing damage and disruption.
Resident Keanu K. shared his personal story of his mother’s 20-year wait for a Hawaiian homestead lease, which she received after her passing. He expressed strong support for DHHL’s efforts to return land to Hawaiians, emphasizing it as a state and city responsibility. As a licensed civil engineer and contractor, he believes that with proper techniques and planning, environmental concerns can be addressed, and the focus should be on getting Hawaiians back on their land quickly.
Board Member Souza stated that he would be remiss if he didn’t speak about the things he’s feeling, and his sentiment has changed as the line of speakers came through. He acknowledged being fortunate and privileged, and in response to a question about why developed complexes are necessary, He explained that complex issues require consideration of various factors. He noted that the rhetoric surrounding opposition to these types of issues often overlooks the concept of how to address them effectively.
Resident Chris Evans expressed support for placing homes on the land but raised concerns about the construction process and its impact on the environment. He highlighted issues with clay soils and unstable rock that require careful handling to prevent damage. He stressed the need for meticulous monitoring and proper techniques to ensure that development is done responsibly, citing past grading issues that caused significant problems and emphasizing the importance of protecting the land and existing properties.
Resident Malia Peters thanked the board and Councilmember Kiaʻaina for her efforts in including the community and providing information about the housing development. She shared her personal connection to the issue, having been raised in Kailua and having a father who was evicted and displaced, and never received his Hawaiian homestead lease. She expressed support for the project, conditional on the soil study’s findings, and hoped that it would allow younger Kanaka to remain in Kailua.
Aunty Mappuana De Silva shared her deep connection to the land, having grown up in a community with a high percentage of Hawaiians. She noted that over the years, many Hawaiian families, including her own, have been displaced, and now only a small percentage of Hawaiians remain in Kailua. She expressed strong support for the Hawaiian Homelands project, stating that she is 100% to 200% in favor of it, and urged the community to move forward with the project.
VII. Resident and Community Concerns [2:46:21]: Chair bypassed this and the following four items, VII-XI, due to time constraints after hearing no objections from anyone present.
VIII. Mayor and Governor Reports [2:46:40]:
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative [2:46:40]: No report given due to time constraints.
Governor Josh Green’s Representative [2:47:20]: No report given due to time constraints.
IX. Elected-Official Reports [2:47:20]:
Councilmember Esther Kia’āina [2:47:20]: No report given due to time constraints.
Representative Mike Lee [2:47:20]: No representative present.
Representative Lisa Marten [2:47:45]: No report given due to time constraints.
Representative Scot Matayoshi [2:47:45]: No representative present.
Senator Jarrett Keohokalole [2:47:45]: No representative present.
Senator Chris Lee [2:47:45]: No representative present.
U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda [2:47:45]: No report given due to time constraints.
X. Reports from Members who attended Other Meetings [2:48:00]: No reports given due to time constraints.
XI. Presentation [2:48:00]:
Kailua Neighborhood Board 2025 Survey Responses [2:48:00]: No presentation given due to time constraints.
XII. Board Business: Individual Motions [2:48:20]:
Motion to Submit NB31’s Position in Response to DPR’s Invitation for Public Feedback in Q3 regarding Pet Regulations at Community Parks [2:48:20]: Board Member Weber introduced the motion as printed in the agenda [2:48:20]. He elaborated on DPR’s survey to reassess dog policies in parks, and outlined the board’s recommendations following community input. The recommendations include designating two specific parks as off-leash dog parks, while transitioning most other parks in the area to on-leash, with exceptions for a few small parks. Board Member White seconded [2:50:00].
Chair opened the floor for discussion. Board Member Kobayashi inquired about the reasons behind recommending certain parks to remain without dog privileges, with the response indicating that these parks are too small and could be disrupted by the presence of dogs. Board Member Treskon raised financial concerns, noting that implementing off-leash areas could cost around $100,000, which is currently unbudgeted. Board Member Laeha sought clarification on the current policies at specific parks, such as whether dogs are allowed and under what conditions, to ensure alignment with existing rules.
Board Member Weller motioned to defer this item to next agenda due to time constraints [2:50:00]. Chair called the question for motion to defer, following a show of hands and hearing no objections, Chair declared the motion to defer approved [2:56:00].
Motion to Support Community Participation in Kailua Emergency Preparedness Fair [2:57:40]: Board Member Lau motioned to support participation in Kailua Emergency Preparedness Fair [2:58:10], second by Board Member Treskon [2:58:20]. Chair opened the floor to discussion and quickly called the question after hearing no comments for discussion. Following a show of hands and hearing no objections, Chair declared that the motion is approved, 17-0-0 (Aye: Andrade, Andrews, Barra, Kia, Kobayashi, Laeha, Lau, Lipton, Markrich, Righter, Souza, Trecker, Treskon, Weber, Weller, White, and Wong, No: None, Abstain: None) [2:58:50].
XIII. Approval of Regular-Meeting Minutes [2:59:00]: hearing no objections, Chair declared the minutes of the Thursday, July 3, 2025, regular meeting are approved as distributed.
XIV. Committee Reports [2:59:10]: Board Member Weber offered an amendment to clarify that he was present for the Community and Government Engagement Committee meeting, and upon hearing no objections, Chair declared the reports for July 2025 are approved as amended.
XV. Committee Membership Motions [2:59:50]:
Motion to add the following members to committees: Board Member Lipton motioned to add Board Member Kia to Homeless Committee, and as Chair, declared motion adopted after hearing no objections.
XVI. Chair’s Report [3:00:20]: Chair announced that committee agendas for September are due by Sunday, August 24, 2025.
XVII. Adjournment [3:00:40]: Chair adjourned the meeting at 10:00 pm.
Respectfully submitted by: Brandon Tsark, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Dylan 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.