KAILUA NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 31

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
THURSDAY, JULY 2, 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=m74d2389d04b73a4c9d2ed58fdabbb2e8
Meeting number (access code): 2498 136 9662
Meeting password: NB31 (6231 from phones and video systems)
Join by Video System: Dial 24981369662@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, Chelsea Smith, for assistance at: chelsea.smith@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 Pro Tem Bill Hicks

II. ELECTION OF OFFICERS TO SERVE FROM JULY 1, 2026 to JUNE 30, 2027 [NP §2-14-120(b)]. The officers to be elected are the Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, and any other officer(s) determined to be needed to conduct the board’s business.

III. ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. The 4th of July. For our nation’s 250th celebration, the Kailua Chamber of Commerce will host the 77th Annual Kailua 4th of July Parade and 4th of July Fireworks. The parade will begin on North Kainalu Drive near the intersection of Uilama Street and will end on South Kainalu Drive about one mile later at Kailua Intermediate School. HPD will close down Kainalu Drive promptly at 9 am and the parade is expected to start at 10 am. The fireworks show at Kailua Beach Park is expected to begin about 8 pm; info is at kailuafireworks.com. Alexander & Baldwin will sponsor shuttles between the Kailua Town Parking Garage at Lau Hala Shops and Long’s and Kailua Beach Center between 4:30 pm and 10:30 pm at 30-minute intervals.
B. Hawaiʻi Symphony in the Park. The Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra will perform at Kailua District Park on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. The free community concert is sponsored by Alexander & Baldwin. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic dinners.
C. Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi (MCBH) Stormwater Management Plan. The new plan is available for review at https://health.hawaii.gov/cwb/clean-water-branch-home-page/public-notices-and-updates/ Public comments may be submitted to cleanwaterbranch@doh.hawaii.gov until July 24, 2026.
D. Committee Meetings Resume at the Boettcher Estate at Kalama Beach Park. Committee meetings on the third Tuesday of the month (Community and Government Engagement Committee, Executive Committee, and Planning, Zoning & Environment Committee) return to the Boettcher Estate in July following the completion of a reroofing project there.
E. Honolulu Century Ride. Portions of this 100 mile bicycle ride on Sunday September 27, 2026 will take place on Kailua streets between Kāneʻohe Bay Drive and the intersection of Keolu Drive and Kalanianaʻole Highway. Information at https://HBL.org/HCR/
F. Mid Pacific Road Runners Club Lanikai Bike path 8K. The race is on Sunday, July 19th at 6:30 am. It starts at the Lanikai Memorial Monument, goes downhill to Mokulua Drive, makes two loops in the bike path counterclockwise, then ends at the Kailua Beach boat ramp. No roads closures.

IV. 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).

V. PRESENTATIONS – Ten (10) minutes each
A. Ka’elepulu Elementary School & Ka’elepulu PTSA proposal for a street mural installation at the corners of Keolu Dr and Akiohala and Akea Pl. by Kate Stevens, member of the Ka’elepulu PTSA
B. 20 Puʻukani Place Special Management Area (Major) Application by Ethan McKown G70

VI. BOARD BUSINESS: COMMITTEE MOTION
A. The Kailua Neighborhood Board recommends that the following conditions be added to the 20 Puukani Place application before it is approved by the Council Zoning and Planning Committee
1. Condition: that clarifies that the Project plans, including any exhibits and calculations required by the Land Use Ordinance (LUO) must be updated to accurately portray the Project site boundaries and accurately determine whether the Project is consistent with LUO development standards.
2. Condition: The Applicant, in consultation with State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD), shall implement an archaeological monitoring plan during ground-disturbing activity and Project construction to ensure that archaeological and cultural resources are identified and treated properly. Also clarifies that the archaeological monitoring plan must include the onsite presence of a licensed archaeologist during excavation work to ensure that iwi kupuna and other historic resources are appropriately handled. The archaeological monitoring plan must meet the standards of Hawaiʻi Administrative Rules (HAR) Chapter 13-279.
3. Condition: that the Applicant must protect from further disturbance any previously unidentified archaeological sites or remains that are encountered.
4. Condition: that if iwi kupuna are found a burial treatment plan must meet the standards of Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes (HRS) 13-300-33.
5. Condition: clarifies that prior to the issuance of any building permit for the Project, the Applicant shall submit to the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) for review and approval a revised landscape plan that shows the use of low-risk plants as designated on the Plant Pono website at https://plantpono.org/pono-plants/. Also clarifies that no high-risk plants as designated on the Plant Pono website at https://plantpono.org/high-risk-plants/ may be planted on the Project site.
6. Condition – lighting
a. Prohibits 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).
b. Requires exterior light fixtures to be fully shielded.
c. Requires exterior lighting to be turned off when human activity is not occurring in the illuminated area
7. Condition: All Project 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.
8. Condition: Require a nesting survey for seabirds and burrow nests must be conducted prior to and during any construction activities year round.
9. Condition: If a burrow nest is discovered, work will cease within a minimum radius of 200 feet of the nest for a minimum of 100 to 115 days.
10. Condition: If Wedge-tailed Shearwater or any sea bird nests or burrows are found work must be discontinued for 100 to 115 days until all fledging’s have left their nests.
11. Condition: require barbless fencing to be used for all fence construction to avoid the entanglement of Hawaiian hoary bats.
12. Condition: clarifies that a 300-foot buffer must be observed if a monk seal pup is present.
13. Condition: approximately one year after the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the Project, the Applicant shall submit to Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) for review and approval a post-construction survey to detect whether the Project site contains any invasive species that have spread from the imported fill materials and recommend mitigative measures to address any spread. The Applicant shall implement the recommendations of the post-construction survey approved by DOFAW.
14. Condition: 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.
15. Condition: require the landowner to acknowledge that “bed and breakfast homes and transient vacation units”, as defined in (Revised Ordinance of Honolulu) ROH Chapter 21, the LUO, are not allowed.
16. 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 recreational activities”.
17. Condition: Require that Erosion and Sedimentation Plans are provided to the Building Department prior to construction to ensure that preventative measures such as windscreens, sediment logs, silt fencing, erosion control blankets, mulch, and sediment basins etc. will be in place to capture construction dust and debris and prevent runoff from leaving the site and affecting the shoreline and/or groundwater.
(Planning, Zoning, and Environment Committee motion.)

VII. LOCAL AGENCY REPORTS – Three (3) minutes each
A. Board of Water Supply representative (usually Dani Ornellas)
B. Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi representative (usually Kristi Kaluhiwa)

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

IX. 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)

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

XI. REPORTS FROM MEMBERS WHO ATTENDED OTHER MEETINGS

XII. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
A. Thursday, May 7, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes
B. Thursday, June 4, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes

XIII. THREE MEETING ABSENCES

XIV. 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

XV. COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP MOTIONS: Changes to committee membership.

XVI. CHAIR’S REPORT: Committee agendas for August 2026 are due to the Chair by Sunday, July 26, 2026.

XVII. ADJOURNMENT

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2026 at 7:00 P.M.
KAILUA DISTRICT PARK MULTIPURPOSE ROOM, 21 SOUTH KAINALU DRIVE, KAILUA, HI 96734
AND VIA WEBEX TELECONFERENCING

Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9zlxGzllPA

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

I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL – [0:00:31]: Chair Bill Hicks called the Kailua Neighborhood Board No. 31 regular meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. Quorum was established with 12 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, Jade Lau, Levani Lipton, Max Markrich, Steven Trecker, Jeremy Treskon, Gary Weller, Jon White, Kelli Ann Kobayashi (7:09 p.m.), and Ana Malia Kia (7:15 p.m.).

Members Absent: Kate Righter, Kalama Souza, Malie Thoemmes, Evan Weber, and Donna Wong.

Guests: Lieutenant Sanford Yu, Sergeant Dowkins, and Corporal Tamashiro (Honolulu Police Department); Captain Pacarro (Honolulu Fire Department); Cole McPhearson (Honolulu Ocean Safety Department); Kristi Kaluhiwa (Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi); Jim Ireland (Mayor’s Representative); Erin Conner-Jerome (Governor’s Representative); Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina and Gloria Palma (Office of Councilmember Kiaʻāina); Representative Lisa Marten; Representative Mike Lee, Jonah McNear (Office of Representative Mike Lee); Representative Scott Matayoshi; Tolua Samifua (U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda); Kaui Tanaka and Lisa Doyle (Maunawili Elementary School), Crystal Branco (Olomana Community Association), Roger Morton (Director, DTS) and Renee Espiau (Complete Streets Administrator) and Kelly Akasaki (City Chief Traffic Engineer), Mike Buck (C.O.R.E.), Johnnie-Mae L. Perry, Malia Espinda, Doug Hill, Ruth Mizumoto, Carol Abe, Heather Hipp, Lauren Ray (Red Hill Registry), Jolyn Ohta, Bryce Calpito, Randall Hew, Bobby Silva, Derek Mukai (CPE), Tony Jones (B+K), Derrick Cabalang (ENV), Ken Aramaki (Hawaiian Electric), Cindy Turner, Linda Jenks, Alex Gutierrez, John Edlock, Renee Espian (Residents and Community Members); Chelsea Smith (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible. There were approximately 75 total participants.

II. ANNOUNCEMENTS – [0:02:33]
A. 4th of July Celebration: Chair Hicks announced the 77th Annual Kailua 4th of July Parade and Fireworks hosted by the Kailua Chamber of Commerce. The parade will begin on North Kainalu Drive near the intersection of Uilama Street, ending at Kailua Intermediate School. HPD will close Kainalu Drive at 9:00 a.m., parade starts at 10:00 a.m. Fireworks at Kailua Beach Park begin at approximately 8:00 p.m. (info at kailuafireworks.com). Alexander & Baldwin will sponsor shuttles between the Kailua Town Parking Garage at Lauhala Shops and Long’s and Kailua Beach Center from 4:30–10:30 p.m. at 30-minute intervals.
B. Kailua Town Hall: Monday, June 29, 2026, 6:00–7:30 p.m. at the Kailua District Park Multipurpose Room. Come and talk story with Kailua’s elected officials.
C. Rescheduled Committee Meetings: Due to Kamehameha Day on Thursday, June 11, the Water Quality and Transportation Committees will meet on Wednesday, June 10, and the Parks Committee will meet on Thursday, June 18, rather than their normal meeting times.

III. HPD, HFD, AND OCEAN SAFETY REPORTS – [0:04:27]
A. Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – [0:04:45]: Lieutenant Sanford Yu accompanied by Sergeant Dowkins and Corporal Tamashiro presented May 2026 statistics for District 4: zero motor vehicle thefts (compared to four the prior month); four burglaries (compared to one); 22 thefts (compared to 16); one unauthorized entry into a motorized vehicle (compared to two); and two robberies (compared to zero).

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:05:29]
1. E-Bike Bill Status: Member Weller asked whether the Governor had signed the electric bicycle bill and whether HPD would have sufficient manpower to enforce new rules. Lieutenant Sanford Yu reported to his knowledge the Governor had not yet signed the bill.
2. Aggressive Riders and 911 Response: Member Laeha described an incident near Makapuʻu where aggressive motorcyclists were following his vehicle closely and pulling wheelies; he reported being placed on hold for approximately 20 minutes when calling 911 and questioned what the protocols were when it came to answering 911 calls. Lieutenant Sanford Yu explained that calls are answered in the order received by multiple operators and confirmed the inability to pursue fleeing riders per policy. He noted that videotaping riders is insufficient for citation, but officers can attempt to identify operators and issue warnings.
3. Lane Splitting Legality: Chair Hicks asked about lane splitting by motorcyclists, which is legal in California but not in Hawaiʻi. Lieutenant Sanford Yu confirmed that if an officer observes a motorcyclist lane splitting and can safely stop the vehicle, the motorcyclist would be cited.

Member Kobayashi joined the meeting at 7:09 p.m. – 13 members present.

B. Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – [0:9:44]: Captain Pacarro reported May 2026 statistics: zero structure fires; two wildland/brush fires; two nuisance fires; zero cooking fires; ten activated alarms; 84 medical emergencies; one motor vehicle collision; one mountain rescue; zero ocean rescues; one hazardous materials incident. Additional details are available at fire.honolulu.gov. The fire safety tip for the month focused on hurricane preparedness: hurricane season runs June 1–November 30; residents were urged to build a 14-day disaster supply kit, check insurance policies for hurricane/flood coverage, protect windows with properly sized materials, and sign up for storm alerts at HNLAlert.gov. Visit honolulu.gov/dem to learn about risks and hazards and what to do if a hurricane should threaten our island. Email hfdnhb@honolulu.gov with questions about any of the information that was shared.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1U9js6pBJ2u17W8HJiQOHGzXOsetMeWTI/view?usp=drive_link

C. Honolulu Ocean Safety Department – [0:12:55]: Cole McPhearson reported May 2026 statistics for towers from Kalama Beach to Kailua Boat Ramp: attendance of approximately 100,000; nearly 4,000 preventive actions; just under 900 minor first aids; 10,000 public contacts; and 12 water rescues. He also shared notable incidents including a windsurfer in distress at Kailua Beach who swallowed water, and a man on a floaty approximately 200 yards offshore at Lanikai who was brought in by rescue craft.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:13:53]
1. New Ocean Safety Station: A community member asked when Ocean Safety would be moving in to their new station. McPhearson is hopeful that the move will happen by end of summer.

IV. BOARD BUSINESS: MOTIONS – [0:14:37]
A. Motion Requesting a Traffic Signal at Ulupiʻi Street and Kalanianaʻole Highway: Chair Hicks read the motion into the record. The motion reiterates a request from September 4, 2014 (passed 18-1) for HDOT to install a traffic signal at the intersection of Ulupiʻi Street and Kalanianaʻole Highway, citing April 2026 Olomana Association poll results (100 yes, 19 no out of 119 respondents) and the 2026 I Love Kailua Town Party survey (170 yes, 27 no; 86% in support). Member Lau expressed her gratitude that DTS director Morton was present at the meeting to hear their motion first hand as well as for the community representatives who canvased their neighborhoods and elementary school to discuss and share what their findings were. She voiced her concern regarding the follow through and having to request this traffic signal for a second time years later.

Member Kia arrived at 7:15 p.m. – 14 members present.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:18:30]
1. Maunawili Elementary School Principal Testimony: Kauʻi Tanaka, principal of Maunawili Elementary School (MES) reported survey results from 78 school stakeholders (faculty, parents, students, and community partners). Of those, 69.2% voted in favor of a traffic light at Ulupiʻi Street and Kalanianaʻole Highway. Concerns raised included: multiple accidents near the school (including three in the first week of her tenure); difficulty exiting the Olomana neighborhood, particularly for left turns toward the Pali; potential traffic congestion and cut-through in the neighborhood if a new light causes backups; and downstream traffic impact on Ulupiʻi Street. The principal stated she personally believes current speed humps are currently working.
2. Olomana Community Association Testimony: Crystal Branco, representing the Olomana Community Association, described ongoing safety concerns entering and exiting the community due to increasing traffic volumes. She referenced a January 27th T-bone accident at 7:00 a.m. near the Ulupiʻi Street exit and noted multiple subsequent accidents, including one involving a mother with young children. She confirmed the Community Association supports the traffic light, emphasizing the need for one safe egress from the neighborhood.
3. MES Community Relations Staff Testimony: Lisa Doyle, MES community relations program assistant, expressed concern that the school was not consulted earlier in the process, calling for additional traffic study data from the Department of Transportation before a final decision. She noted the potential impact of 200+ school vehicles twice daily on traffic flow and asked that DOT’s expertise be applied before implementation.
4. Historical Traffic Studies and DOT Response: Malia Espinda inquired whether or not a study was done in 2014 and if there is a study, is there a place that these findings are posted. Chair Hicks noted that HDOT had previously studied the intersection. Erin Conner-Jerome (Governor’s Representative) confirmed that DOT conducted traffic signal evaluations in 2007, 2014, and 2018, and in all three cases determined that vehicle and pedestrian volumes did not meet warrants for a traffic signal. In 2024, the intersection was reconfigured with speed tables. She noted she would forward any updated DOT response when received.
5. Traffic Signal Funding: Member Weller asked how much the traffic light would cost. Chair Hicks noted that signals are typically installed only when federal funding is available, making them a priority-list item.
6. Data Collection Confirmation: Memebr Lau asked if there was a way to confirm that DOT was conducting traffic studies and collecting data during the appropriate hours of concern, when realistic conditions could be captured.
7. Signal Timing: Member Andrade questioned whether or not the timimg and sycronization of the traffic lights are studied. Chair Hicks agreed that the timing of the traffic signals must be coordinated so that Kailua and Waimanalo traffic can flow.
8. Safety vs. Convenience: Member Lipton distinguished between convenience and safety, noting a personal connection to the topic — a friend’s mother was fatally struck while crossing near the YMCA before a long-requested traffic light was finally installed. She urged the board to prioritize safety over timing concerns, which she noted were technical issues that could be resolved.
9. Study Timing and School Hours: Member Lau asked whether DOT traffic studies were conducted during appropriate hours — specifically, during school drop-off and pick-up times — rather than off-peak periods or school vacation months. Conner-Jerome agreed to raise this question with DOT.

[0:49:08] Chair Hicks called for the vote. The motion was ADOPTED; 14-0-0. (Aye: Andrade, Andrews, Barra, Hicks, Kia, Kobayashi, Laeha, Lau, Lipton, Markrich, Trecker, Treskon, Weller, and White; Nay: None; Abstain: None.) – [0:50:41]

V. LOCAL AGENCY REPORTS – [0:50:53]
A. Board of Water Supply – [0:50:54]: No representative present.

B. Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi (MCBH) – [0:51:19]: Kristi Kaluhiwa provided the following updates:
• 4th of July Parade: Colonel Stephen DeTrenis and Sergeant Major Don Marino will participate in the Kailua 4th of July Parade.
• Hui Nalu Kaupiko Regatta: July 12, MCBH will host this open base event, participation is open to the public.
• RIMPAC 2026: RIMPAC begins in late June through July, wrapping up in early August. Adjusted airfield hours and Bellows Beach training are expected; several weekends in July the beach will be closed and unavailable for camping in support of RIMPAC training.
• MCBH Storm Water Permit Renewal: The Department of Health will seek public comments on MCBH’s storm water management plan permit renewal. The comment period runs June 24 – July 24.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:53:28]
1. Storm Water Permit Comment Address: Member Lipton asked for the comment submission address for the MCBH storm water permit review and noted the Water Quality Committee would take this up at its July meeting. Kaluhiwa confirmed the mailing and email addresses: Hawaii Department of Health Clean Water Branch, PO Box 3378, Honolulu 96801, or by email at cleanwaterbranch@doh.hawaii.gov.
2. New Base Commander: Member Lau asked if Kaluhiwa shared about the new base comander. Kaluhiwa confirmed Colonel Stephen DeTrenis assumed command on May 21, 2026.

VI. PRESENTATIONS [0:55:22]
A. Lanikai Transportation Management Plan Implementation Update [0:55:36]: Roger Morton (Director, DTS), Renee Espiau (Complete Streets Administrator), and Kelly Akasaki (City Chief Traffic Engineer) presented an update on the Lanikai Transportation Management Plan. Key points:
• Budget Secured: The City Council approved $500,000 for Lanikai transportation improvements in the FY27 operating budget.
• Phased Approach (Plan C): Following a community-suggested intermediate option, DTS is implementing a phased approach. Phase 1: Install no-parking signage with cross-hatching along Mokulua Drive (the exit street) to provide immediate relief for residents unable to egress the community as well as loading/unloading spaces on Mokulua Drive in the vicinity of each of the five beach accesses. Phase 2: Install no-parking signs along A’alapapa Drive, widen select side streets, and install one-way traffic with marked parking stalls.
• Beach Access: Several pedestrian loading/drop-off zones will be installed adjacent to each of the five beach accesses so visitors can continue to enjoy Lanikai Beach while parking is managed.
• Monitoring: DTS will closely monitor outcomes after Phase 1 implementation to assess effectiveness and unintended impacts before proceeding.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1T_K3pd8zk0mgBYp8qV9Ji6WgfFjtM_IM/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:01:35]
1. Presentation Availability: An audience member asked where to access the presented slides. Morton confirmed they would be posted on the DTS Complete Streets website and on the NB31 Google Drive.
2. Implementation Timeline and Signage Quality: An audience member asked how quickly the signs would go up. Morton explained the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) would handle signage to keep costs down; however, DTS prefers better-quality striping paint than DFM typically uses. The loading zones require additional paving and State Historic Preservation Division consultation, which may take slightly longer. The $500,000 funding lapses in one year, making speed critical.
3. Praises for getting the job done: Member Lau thanked Councilmember Kiaʻāina for supporting the board’s efforts, she also thanked Morton for his efforts in putting their plans into action.
4. No-Parking Unimproved Shoulders: Member Kobayashi raised concern that eliminating parking on Mokulua Drive before improving side streets could push visitors to park on unimproved shoulders elsewhere in the neighborhood. Morton acknowledged the concern, noting it is a broader island-wide issue and that Phase 2 plans to create legal, improved parking on one side of each of the side streets.
5. Immediate Parking Solutions: Member Laeha asked how many parking stalls could be created if unimproved parking areas were improved. He argued that the logical solution would to improve areas for parking now to allow continued access to the beach. Espiau reassured that in Phase 2 multiple streets in Lanikai would be widened to accomodate new parking stalls and those streets would also be converted to a one way pattern.
6. Parking Fine Deterrence: Member Weller raised concerns that the $35 parking fine is insufficient to deter visitors from parking in no-parking zones. Morton acknowledged the issue, noting increased fines require either state or city legislation. Member Weller asked for clarification between a no-parking and a no-parking tow-away zone sign, and suggested that a tow-away zone sign would serve a more severe consequence for illegal parking.
7. Transportation and Parking Plan Updates: Member Markrich expressed concern that transportation and parking plans previously discussed and agreed upon with DTS appeared to have changed without prior notice. He requested clarification on whether key elements of the original proposal—including the bike lane, bicycle parking, and increased bus service frequency—would remain in place. In response, Espiau confirmed that the proposed loading zones would provide improved opportunities for securing bicycle racks. Morton also noted that there may be an opportunity to partner with private transportation providers to establish shuttle service from a designated parking area in Kailua to help accommodate visitors.
8. Tow Away Zone Designation and Enforcement: Chair Hicks inquired about the requirements for establishing a tow-away zone and whether such a designation could be implemented in Lanikai. Morton explained that tow-away zones are typically designated on arterial roadways and that implementing one in Lanikai would likely require a special zoning designation or additional regulatory action. Lisa Marten concurred and emphasized that the current $35 parking citation is insufficient to deter violations. She noted that she and Chris Lee had previously supported increasing the citation for parking in bike lanes from $35 to $200. Marten suggested that a similar approach, including potential legislative or legal action, could be pursued to strengthen parking enforcement measures in Lanikai.
9. Emergency Access Testimony: Lanikai resident Alex Guitierez testified to two recent emergencies in the neighborhood where ambulance and fire response was significantly delayed due to congestion — including one incident where a construction worker died at the scene after a wall collapse. He urged the board and DTS to expedite the plan, emphasizing that emergency access is a life-safety matter.
10. Board Vote History and Plan C: Member Treskon noted the board had previously voted (at the March 2026 meeting) against implementing no-parking signs on the entire loop in advance of side street improvements, and questioned why DTS was now proceeding with a modified version without returning to the board. Chair Hicks confirmed there had been a motion that failed. Morton clarified that Plan C is a new, intermediate option intended to balance immediate resident relief with the constraints of the original plan, and that DTS had not brought it back for a board vote.
11. Public Outreach: Member Barra asked about public outreach plans when signs go up, including reaching the visitor industry. Morton confirmed outreach would include leaflets, signage in the area, and web pages.
12. Timeline for Side Streets: Member Andrews expressed concern about confidence in the side street improvement timeline, noting the board’s March decision was predicated on doing everything at once. Morton acknowledged the regulatory and design process for the side streets is complex (SHPD review, property owner consultation, design), estimating a consultant will be engaged this year, with construction timeline uncertain. He committed that DTS would not abandon the full project.

VII. RESIDENT AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS – [1:42:57]
State Senate District 25 Candidacy: Bobby Silva introduced himself as a Kailua native and candidate for State Senate District 25, noting he would be on the ballot this year.

Kuʻulei Road/Kailua Road Re-Striping Request: John Edlock requested that the Department of Transportation Services review the faded semi-circular striping at the intersection, noting that motorists are crossing into oncoming traffic while turning. Kelly Akasaki stated she would submit a work order and refer the matter for re-striping if warranted. Edlock also commented that he does not believe additional parking can be accommodated in Lanikai.

Water Quality Wins – Stream Restoration and Mangrove Removal: Resident Cindy Turner congratulated the Board, particularly Member Lipton’s Water Quality Committee, on two major wins: (1) funding secured by Representative Lisa Marten for the stream flow restoration project at Kawainui Stream; and (2) funding for a mangrove removal project in city-managed portions of Lower Kawainui Stream and Kaʻelepulu Stream from the ocean up to Kaʻelepulu Pond (RFP now out). She thanked Councilmember Kiaʻāina for sustained support and asked that the project scope be reviewed to include the dog park area where large mangroves remain.

Kailua Triangle Park Update: Malia Espinda asked for an update on Triangle Park, including the progress of the ~$100K restoration (sod, weeds, trees, fence). Kelly Akasaki (online) reported the area was walked with the contractor that day and is approximately 60% covered with grass. El Toro grass seed has been planted per community preference, but she is testing Bermuda grass in the staging area as it may establish faster. Sod remains an option. She also noted the fence would come down once the grass is sufficiently established.

Kailua Public Library: Malia Espinda requested community engagement and long-term facility planning regarding funds allocated for improvements to the Kailua Public Library.

Red Hill Registry Enrollment: Lauren Ray, Enrollment and Survey Administration Manager for the Red Hill Registry, shared that enrollment is open and that the registry is currently conducting surveys and focus groups to gather community feedback. Additional information is available at redhillregistry.com

VIII. MAYOR AND GOVERNOR REPORTS – [1:51:58]
A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Report – [1:52:08]: Director Ireland was experiencing technically difficulties.

B. Governor Josh Green’s Report – [1:52:48]: Erin Conner-Jerome presented answers to community questions and conerns from the May 2026 meeting.
1) Lanikai Trail/DLNR Update: DHSFFFA (Division of Forestry) is working to revise project scope; hopes to begin construction in 4–6 months. The trail will be closed during construction. A reservation system similar to Diamond Head is being developed and expected to go live within six months (may be delayed until after construction).
2) Military Land Lease Response: A lengthy DLNR response was emailed to Chair Hicks and included in meeting materials.
3) New Kailua Road Traffic Signals: The two new traffic signals on Kailua Road (near Uluolu Street/Aoloa Drive and Ulu Mano Street/Drive) are now up and running. HDOT is receiving feedback on signal timing and is working with the city to synchronize the lights. Speed humps removed for the installation will be addressed through repaving and restriping of that section.
4) Kailua Road Repaving (Kalanianaʻole to Hamakua): HDOT had planned to repave Kailua Road but is placing it on hold until the North Kalaheo Avenue Bridge project is complete (expected October 2026) to avoid compounding road disruptions.
5) Utility Poles and Kailua Road Resurfacing: Utility poles on Kalanianaʻole Highway need to be braced prior to Kailua Road resurfacing. HECO is obtaining permits for this work.
6) Noise Complaints – Traffic/Moped Noise: Noise complaints related to traffic or mopeds are handled by HPD or HDOT (not the Department of Health). DOH can document noise concerns and refer to appropriate agencies. Regarding extending noise standards (currently applied to mopeds) to motorcycles: HDOT’s Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspection office will reach out to county partners to reinforce compliance.
7) Wastewater Discharge Notification (DOH): The May 6 wastewater discharge email notification had blank fields because specific details were not yet available when the notice was issued. As details become available, the advisory website is updated and additional notifications are sent. MCBH posted signs at seven locations from the base area through Kailua Bay. The DOH orange polygon warning area is not intended as a precise “do not enter” zone but indicates areas that could be affected; Conner-Jerome noted she is still awaiting DOH’s response to the chair’s specific email question about the discrepancy between the orange polygon and the red circle on posted signs.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:00:30]
1. Sewage Advisory Area Confusion: Chair Hicks noted a contradiction between the DOH advisory covering all of Kailua Bay and the posted signs showing only a red circle around the outfall pipe, creating public confusion about where it is actually unsafe to enter the water. He asked for clarity on the area of concern.
2. Interagency Meeting on Sewage Notification: Member Lipton requested that an interagency meeting be arranged between the DOH Clean Water Branch and the Kailua Wastewater Treatment Plant to align on the advisory notification process, at-risk area determination, and public communication. Conner-Jerome agreed to facilitate this.
3. Shared Outfall Pipe Responsibility: Member Weller noted from a prior plant tour that the MCBH and City sewer pipes merge into a shared outfall, complicating the attribution of exceedance events. He emphasized the need for clarity on responsibility.

C. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Report – [2:08:17]: Director Ireland was able to log back in with audio and gave the following updates.
1) Lanikai Emergency Response Clarification: Ireland addressed the Lanikai resident’s earlier testimony about delayed emergency response, noting that based on his own response to the incident, it took under 30 minutes for rescue units to arrive (not 30–45 minutes as described). He acknowledged that any congestion delays in Lanikai do affect emergency response times, and emphasized the importance of reducing congestion for large emergency vehicles such as fire trucks.
2) New Managing Director: Mike Formby’s last day was Friday; Krishna J. Ram has been designated as Managing Director (previously deputy managing director).
3) New HPD Police Chief: David Lazar has been named as the new police chief. Ireland expressed confidence in Lazar’s humble approach and commitment to the job.
4) FEMA Storm Damage Assistance: Federal aid applications for storm damage are still open; the deadline is approaching (estimated around June 14). Residents are urged to apply.
5) Homelessness Reduction: The Oahu point-in-time count shows approximately 600–700 fewer unsheltered individuals compared to two years ago, though approximately 2,200 remain unsheltered. The City’s H3 program (Act 219, 2025 Legislature) allows involuntary transport of individuals in mental health or substance abuse crisis for emergency evaluation; approximately 70 cases have been processed under the pilot program. The program is expanding in July or August, including to Kailua areas such as the District Park, Walgreens area, and Kailua Beach Park.
6) Follow-up Responses: (a) Sand erosion and safety at the Kailua Canoe Club – DFM will work with DPR at the next scheduled stream mouth maintenance. (b) Tree overhang near Castle Hospital – Ireland noted this is State DOT (not City) responsibility. (b) Kalanianaʻole Avenue Bridge parking access and Kaipiʻi Street metal plate repair – responses came in too late for tonight; Ireland will follow up.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:15:40]
1. City Policy on Water Main Break Property Claims: Chair Hicks asked Ireland to report next month on the city’s policy for handling property damage claims resulting from water main breaks, referencing prior testimony that the city appears to deny first-time break claims.

IX. ELECTED OFFICIAL REPORTS – [2:16:50]
A. Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina – [2:16:58]: Councilmember Kiaʻāina reported: North Kalaheo Avenue Bridge construction has a new contra flow pattern through June 12 (Kailua-bound 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.); from June 15 through July 31, the schedule reverts to an earlier contra flow pattern (Kailua-bound 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays–Thursdays). The project continues through October, with reduced traffic impact thereafter. She also announced: the operating budget passed 6-3 (though it faces a possible mayoral veto with override possible); $62.2 million is allocated for Kailua Wastewater Treatment Plant improvements this year; a UV disinfection system is already operational; she encouraged mangrove basin land acquisition discussions; and a wildfire preparedness town hall is being targeted for August. She highlighted her success in securing 13 new positions for the Department of Emergency Management (nearly doubling staff) in the budget.

B. Representative Lisa Marten – [2:24:30]: Representative Marten highlighted the 20% statewide decrease in unsheltered homelessness, attributing it to more shelter options — including 20 new tiny homes blessed at the Waimanalo Urgent Emergency Shelter. She announced two upcoming events at the Kailua District Park Multipurpose Room on June 29: (1) Free distribution of coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) supplies from 5:00–6:00 p.m. (online pre-registration at CRBhawaii.org/community); and (2) Legislative town hall from 6:00–7:30 p.m. with windward state legislators to discuss the session’s bills informally.

C. Representative Mike Lee – [2:29:03]: Representative Lee reported on legislative highlights: labor committee work and modernization of the unemployment office (transitioning from paper to a data platform); paid family leave as a continuing policy discussion; supporting community-military relations as Colonel DeTrenis takes command; planning a visit to the Women’s Correctional Facility for June or early August; and announcing a large e-waste and gently used electronics drop-off event at Castle High School on June 20, 8:00 a.m.–noon.

D. Senator Chris Lee – [2:32:23]: No representative present.

E. Senator Jarrett Keohokalole – [2:32:30]: No representative present.

F. Representative Scot Matayoshi – [2:32:37]: Representative Matayoshi highlighted key bills from the session: a Citizens United counter-bill to limit dark money in elections (first in the nation); three workers’ compensation streamlining bills to speed medical care and return to work; two anti-vaping bills; and an AI chatbot safety bill limiting chatbot behavior with minors. He also provided a Maunawili Falls trail update: the trail remains closed while the state pursues purchase of a large parcel of land that would allow trail access through the golf course clubhouse area, bypassing the residential neighborhood entirely. No timeline available yet.

G. Tolua Samifua (on behalf of U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda) – [2:35:50]: Samifua noted Representative Tokuda is engaged in NDA markups. She reminded the community that FEMA disaster assistance applications (for homeowners and renters with storm damage) are open until Sunday, June 14. https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20260423/deadline-apply-fema-assistance-extended-june-14-maui-hawaii-and-honolulu
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AOHPTINw43LQJ47HEgUYQpjTz6oDdDrR/view?usp=drive_link

X. REPORTS FROM MEMBERS WHO ATTENDED OTHER MEETINGS – [2:37:24]: Postponed.

XI. PRESENTATIONS (CONTINUED) – [2:37:30]
A. Kailua Waste Water Treatment Plan 2026 Projects – [2:37:38]: Derek Cabalong (City Engineer overseeing construction management) and Tony Jones (Bowers & Kubota) presented two major active construction projects at the Kailua Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant (originally built 1965; last major upgrade 1994):
1) Biotower Rehabilitation (~$24M): The two large biotrickling filters visible from Kāneʻohe Bay Drive are undergoing full media replacement. Contractor: Hawaiian Dredging Construction Company; Designer: Brown and Caldwell. Construction notices to proceed was issued in August 2025; the project has a 3.3-year contract deadline but DTS hopes to complete it in about 2.5 years. Work hours are 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. on weekdays and 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. on Saturdays (noise variance granted for Saturday work). Contractors must monitor and mitigate noise and odors.
2) New Dewatering Building (~$68M): This project will capture solids from the treatment process, remove water to create “sludge cake,” and ultimately produce Class A biosolids for use as fertilizer (a more complex future phase). Currently, sludge cake is sent to H-POWER. Contractor: Nan Inc.; Designer: Community Planning and Engineering. The structure will be approximately three stories — one of the tallest on site. Most construction kicks off this month, following a pre-construction equipment review phase. Project duration is approximately three years.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:42:44]
1. Hours of operations: Member Weller asked for confirmation of work hours as there may have been conflicting information on the flyer. Jones confirmed there were different hours of operation for weekday and weekends as the project allows for work to be completed within their noise permit on Saturdays.
2. Emergency generator: Member Weller is aware that a portion of the plant was not connected to the emergency generator, he asked if all the work that is being completed will be connected to the emergency generator so that in the event of an emergency the plant could continue operations. Jones confirmed that the plant underwent an electrical upgrade, old generators were decommissioned and the entire plant is now connected to the centralized emergency generator plant.
3. Noise Complaints: Member Weller inquired about what will be done to mitigate the noise during construction. Jones confirmed that they will be closely monitoring noise levels and noted that most machines that cause loud noises should not be operating outside of permitted hours. Weller also asked if there would be a 24-hour hotline that the community could call should they need to report any problems, Jones deferred to the Cabalang, and Chair Hicks requested they come back with that information at a later time.
4. Demolition Disposal: Member Lipton requested information on where materials from demolition will be disposed of. Jones reported that disposal of materials is the responsibility of the contractor, but ensured that all waste materials will be tested to confirm there is no biohazard and then properly flushed and sanitized before disposal.

B. Hawaiian Electric’s Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) Initiative- [2:48:23] Ken Aramaki, Director of Integrated Grid Planning presented the Renewable Energy Zones initiative. Key Points:
1) Purpose: Hawaiian Electric is required by the Governor’s executive order and a Public Utilities Commission order to designate two large renewable energy zones (REZ) by June 2026. REZ designation targets areas suitable for renewable energy development to support the state’s 100% renewable energy goal.
2) Site Selection Criteria: The REZ study considered generation potential, transmission and maintenance costs, developer interest, state land opportunities (per governor’s direction), and equity (geographic distribution across the island for resilience).
3) Community Feedback: Hawaiian Electric is seeking public input via an interactive map at hawaiianelectric.com/IGP/REZ/cycle2, where residents can pin areas of opportunity or concern and add comments. A QR code was provided at the meeting.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:54:21]
1. Future Electricity Cost: Member Weller asked what kilowatt-hour costs are projected to be as renewable energy buildout proceeds. Aramaki acknowledged the question but noted forecasting exact consumer prices 20 years out is difficult. He explained the goal of renewable energy is to stabilize costs by reducing dependence on volatile fuel prices; Hawaiian Electric signs 20-year contracts with renewable developers to lock in pricing stability. He agreed to take the question back and provide further information.

Due to technical difficulties, the meeting recording was inadvertently terminated during item XIII below. The following is a summary of the proceedings that occurred after the recording ended.

XII. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – [2:57:49]: Approval of the Thursday, May 7, 2026 regular meeting minutes was deferred in the interest of time.

XIII. THREE MEETING ABSENCES [2:57:54]: Chair Hicks reported that three members have reached three meeting absences:
A. Member Jeremy Treskon: Requests to continue; has been off-island due to work requirements. No objection from the board.
B. Member Steven Trecker: Requests to continue; has been impacted by medical issues. Noted as a long-term, highly engaged board contributor. No objection from the board.
C. Member Malie Thoemmes: Was absent tonight and did not respond to the letter. Item carried over to the July 2026 agenda.

XIV. COMMITTEE REPORTS: Committee reports stand as published. No committee chairs offered amplifications.

XV. COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP MOTIONS: No changes to committee membership were requested. Deferred due to time.

XVI. CHAIR’S REPORT: Chair Hicks announced that committee agendas for July 2026 are due to the Chair by Sunday, June 21, 2026.

XVII. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 p.m.

Submitted by: Chelsea Smith, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, 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.