NĀNĀKULI – MĀ‘ILI NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 36
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2025
NĀNĀKULI PUBLIC LIBRARY
89-070 FARRINGTON HIGHWAY – HAWAIʻI 96792
7:00 PM
WebEx Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=m9bcd2624f5d167608f501972217fd99e
Meeting Number/ Access Code: 2499 274 8031
Password: NB36 (6236 when dialing from a phone or video system)
Join By Video System: You can also dial 173.243.2.68 and enter your meeting number.
Join By Phone: 1-408-418-9388 United States Toll
Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1OpQrZcPlM4-SOeAKbx0CAgcA0tazyEYf
YouTube Recordings: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice
Rules of Speaking: Anyone intending to speak, we will ask that in-person attendees’ line up at the microphone. Attendees joining us virtually, please raise your virtual hand. When recognized by the Chair, state your name clearly for the minutes. Comments must be kept under two (2) minutes. Official’s monthly reports must be kept under three (3) minutes. Presentations are asked to stay under ten (10) minutes. Sergeant-At-Arms will be keeping time, please conclude your comments when the timer goes off or asked to end by the Chair. When making comments, please address your remarks to the Chair. Silence all electronic devices.
Note: The Board may act on any agenda item. As required by the State Sunshine Law (HRS 92), specific issues not noted on this agenda cannot be voted on, unless added to the agenda. A two-thirds vote of six (6) of this nine (9) member Board is needed to add an item to the agenda. Items may not be added if they are of major importance and will affect a significant number of people.
Order of Decorum – The Neighborhood Plan states: §2-13-104 Standards of conduct. (a) Board members, in the performance of their duties, shall demonstrate by their example the highest standards of ethical conduct, to the end that the public may justifiably have trust and confidence in the integrity of the neighborhood board system. Board members shall hold their offices or positions for the benefit of the public, shall recognize that the public’s interest is their primary concern, and shall faithfully discharge the duties of their offices regardless of personal considerations.
I. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Malia Agustin
a. Pule
b. Nānākuli-Māʻili Neighborhood Board Roll Call
II. CITY EMERGENCY & FIRST RESPONDER MONTHLY REPORTS
a. Honolulu Fire Department (HFD)
i. Certificate to Nānākuli Fire Station Captain Kevin Calleon
b. Honolulu Police Department (HPD)
c. Honolulu Ocean Safety Department- Kelly Krohne
III. FILLING OF VACANCY: One (1) At Large Vacancy.
a. Certificate of Appreciation for Naomi Hanohano
b. Board Vote ~ Oath of Office
IV. STATE OFFICIALS’ MONTHLY REPORTS: Limited to three (3) minutes
a. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – DOA Chair Sharon Hurd
b. State Senator – Samantha DeCorte
c. State Representative – Darius Kila
d. Department of Hawaiian Homelands Representative- Diamond Badajos
e. Office of Hawaiian Affairs – Representative
V. PRESENTATIONS: Limited to ten (10) minutes:
a. Christmas of the Avenue & Operation Blue Light Christmas Mahalo Co-Chairs Pauahi Leoiki. Trisha Palenepa, Alana Mahoe, Char-Al Mahoe
b. Waianae Economic Development Council (WEDC) -Economic revitalization and community development across the Waiʻanae moku- Carrie Inamasu-Aken
VI. RESIDENTS’/COMMUNITY CONCERNS: Limited to two (2) minutes
VII. CITY & MILITARY OFFICIALS MONTHLY REPORTS: Limited to three (3) minutes
a. Mayor Rick Blangiardi Representative
b. Councilmember – Andria Tupola
c. Board of Water Supply – Kathleen Pahinui
d. Army Representative – Lieutenant Colonel Ricky McArthur
e. Navy Representative – Jhewel Felipe
VIII. BOARD BUSINESS
a. Approval of September 16, 2025, October 21, 2025 TABLED Meeting Minutes
b. Approval of November 18, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes
c. November 2025 Board Member Attendance at Community Meetings and/or Public Hearings.
d. Adopt 2025 Charter Commission Amendment Proposals- Manoa, Agustin, Meyers
e. DPP Hearing December 5, 2025- Review of Testimony for Hawaiki Cable Landing Station.
f. Resolution of Nānākuli-Māʻili Neighborhood Board Legislative Priorities for 2026.
IX. COMMITTEE REPORTS: Limited to three (3) minutes each
a. Transportation Chair – Germaine Meyers: 1st Thursday 6:30PM Nānākuli Public Library
b. Housing & Zoning Chair – Germaine Meyers: 1st Thursday 8:00PM Nānākuli Public Library
c. Education Chair – Valerie-Mae Manoa: 2nd Thursday 6:30PM Nānākuli Public Library
d. Water & Land Chair – Valerie-Mae Manoa: 2nd Thursday 8:00PM Nānākuli Public Library
e. Hawaiian Affairs Chair – Mapuana Tector: 3rd Wednesday 6:00PM Nānākuli Public Library
f. Park & Recreation Chair – James Cowles: Last Tuesday 6:30PM Kalanianaʻole Beach Park
g. Public Health & Safety Chair – Paul Aio: Last Tuesday 7:30PM Kalanianaʻole Beach Park
XI. ANNOUNCEMENTS –
a. Wednesday, December 17, 2025 6-8PM Office of Hawaiian Affairs Community Briefing & Listening Session on Military Leased Lands on at Māʻili Learning Center.
b. Wednesday, January 21, 2026 Hawaiʻi State Legislative Session Begins
c. BOARD RECESS IN JANUARY 2026
d. Next Regular Board Meeting – TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2026, at 7:00 PM, at Nānākuli Public Library and via WebEx Platform.
X. 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 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
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2025 at 7:00 P.M.
NĀNĀKULI PUBLIC LIBRARY — 89-070 FARRINGTON HIGHWAY, WAIʻANAE, HI 96792
AND VIA WEBEX TELECONFERENCING
Meeting Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJNSLNnhG80&
Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1OpQrZcPlM4-SOeAKbx0CAgcA0tazyEYf
1. CALL TO ORDER — [0:00:02]: 7:00 p.m.
Chair Malia Agustin called the Nānākuli-Māʻili Neighborhood Board No. 36 meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Quorum was established with 9 members present. Note: This nine-member Board requires five (5) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.
Members Present: Kaui Asinsin, Paul Aio, James Cowles, Blessings De La Cruz, Naomi Hanohano (online), Germaine Meyers, Valerie-Mae Manoa, Mapuana Tector, and Malia Agustin.
Members Absent: None.
Guests: Corporal Roland Pagan, Lieutenant Marino Carreira (Honolulu Police Department); Blake Copperose (Honolulu Ocean Safety Department); Jeannie Timoteo, Councilmember Andria Tupola (Councilmember Tupola); Kathleen Pahinui (Board of Water Supply); Angela Hoppy Cruz, Abigail Eli, Giana Hurt (McKinney Vento); Jacob Aki, Kahanu Palencia-Cuban, Matt Carris (DTL Hawaii/James Campbell Company); Roxanne Adams (Division of Urban Forestry); Major Adam Tichey (Army); Sharon Herd (Governor’s Representative/Department of Agriculture); Senator Samantha DeCorte; Representative Darius Kila; Austin Salcedo, Kalei Salcedo, Richard Landford, Eleanor, Pua, Lily Cabina-Tan, Johnnie-Mae Perry, Pikachu Shelby, Kapua; Jeffrey Jones (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible or stated for the record. There were approximately 61 total attendees.
Vice Chair Manoa opened in pule (prayer) — [0:01:43]
Nānākuli-Māʻili Neighborhood Board Roll Call — [0:03:27]: Neighborhood Assistant Jeffrey Jones conducted a roll call.
2. CITY EMERGENCY & FIRST RESPONDER MONTHLY REPORTS — [0:04:10]
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) — [0:04:20]: No representative present.
Honolulu Police Department (HPD) — [0:04:26]: Corporal Pagan provided the crime statistics for September 2025.
• September 2025 Statistics: There were 14 motor vehicle thefts district-wide (3 in Nānākuli-Māʻili area); 12 burglaries district-wide (2 in area); 103 thefts district-wide (13 in area); 13 unauthorized entries into motor vehicles district-wide (6 in area); 7,770 total calls for service district-wide (1,330 in area); and 648 total citations issued (65 speeding, 24 other moving violations).
• Community Event: HPD participated in a “Stop the Violence” sign-waving event with Clay Warner, the Teamsters, and iron workers to raise awareness about community violence.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [0:05:19]
1. Report Request: Chair Agustin requested hard copy reports be provided prior to meetings.
2. Bridge Access During Traffic Accident: Member De La Cruz asked why the emergency access bridge wasn’t opened during a recent traffic accident when the community was stuck in traffic for 3-4 hours. Corporal Pagan explained that HPD doesn’t control the gate and that opening requires approval, coordination, and staffing which can take longer than beneficial. The agreement was for natural disasters and evacuations, not necessarily traffic tie-ups. Lieutenant Carreira added that the Department of Emergency Management is responsible for the MOU and watch commanders make discretionary calls on opening emergency access roads. The bridge is only one lane, a short bypass requiring additional police staffing. He would follow up with personnel working that night.
3. Emergency Access Roads MOU Status: Member Meyers asked about the MOU status for emergency access roads, referencing a June 20th meeting. Lieutenant Carreira explained the MOU is being updated by Department of Emergency Management; HPD provides input but doesn’t control the process. Board member Meyers emphasized that issues from a 2019 resolution by Council member Kimberly Pine regarding maintenance (debris removal, tree trimming, homeless infrastructure) are still problems in 2025.
4. School Resource Officers: Member Asinsin inquired why the School Resource Officer (SRO) program was implemented at Waiʻanae High School instead of Nānākuli High School. Corporal Pagan shared HPD was also surprised and is hoping the program will eventually expand to Nānākuli.
Honolulu Ocean Safety Department — [0:17:24]: Blake Copperose (online) provided the statistics for September 2025.
• September 2025 Statistics: There were 132,891 total beach attendance; 15,689 preventative actions; 18,510 public contacts; 8 rescues; and 0 drownings. Top beaches by attendance were Kalaniana Ole Beach Park and Māʻili Beach Park.
• Notable Incidents: There were 266 911 calls island-wide with 32 calls (12%) from the Leeward coast. Incidents included: a person swept out at Paradise Cove who made it back safely; a missing diver at Paradise Cove who was later found; an overdue diver at Mākaha Beach; and a female heat exhaustion at Kahe Point.
• Winter Season Advisory: Entering winter season with larger waves expected at Kahe Point, Kalanianaʻole Beach Park, and Depot Beach Park.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [0:19:19]
1. Missing Person: Board member Aio asked if Ocean Safety had located a missing person. Copperose responded the incident was not on their side of the island and as of earlier that afternoon, they were still searching according to Hawaii News Now.
3. CITY OFFICIALS’ MONTHLY REPORTS — [0:20:09]
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative — [0:20:15]: No representative present.
City Council (District 2) — Andria Tupola — [0:20:20]: Councilmember Tupola provided the report and highlighted the following: Paakea Road Opening; Firewise Communities; Ocean Safety Commission; Ulehawa Cleanup; Police Vacancy Task Force.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [0:22:52]
1. Sewer Line Connection Requirements: Resident Austin Salcedo raised concerns about Kaukamana Road residents being required to hook up to city sewer if lines are installed with fire hydrant project. He referenced city bills 7-2020 CD1 FD1 requiring hookup even for upgraded septic systems, financially burdensome for fixed-income residents. Councilmember Tupola responded she would review the bill (noting two-year window for reintroduction), check if Kaukamana will have sewer line (not in budget), and mentioned Resolution 25-204 allowing climate resiliency funds for sewer upgrades to reduce resident costs.
2. International Waste Management Study: Resident Pikachu Shelby asked about Councilmember Tupola’s recent waste treatment study trip. Councilmember Tupola reported visiting Madrid and Amsterdam to study waste treatment plants to learn about ending landfills. She observed facilities that recycle all plastic and aluminum back into original bottles with no waste, operated by Stoddler (51 waste treatment plants worldwide). Plans to write report and share findings.
3. Kamehameha Schools Lawsuit: Resident Pikachu Shelby asked about Kamehameha Schools lawsuit support. Councilmember Tupola responded three council members are Kamehameha graduates who passed a resolution supporting the school. She’s meeting with President Jack Wong on Friday for updates on the path forward and how council can best support.
4. Unfinished City Business: Resident Kalei Salcedo expressed frustration about unfinished resolutions including homeless encampments, preservation zone (P-1) violations, and lack of solutions. She emphasized wanting answers rather than being blindsided, noting the community has asked for solutions for years.
5. Homeless Services and Mental Health: Councilmember Tupola provided extensive response about homeless services. She discovered case managers lack psychiatric credentials (CCS workers) and service providers have zero psychiatrists. IHS, the biggest provider, has only one doctor for hundreds of homeless individuals. She met with Attorney General and IHS to request doctors for psychiatric evaluations (MH1, MH2, MH10 forms) needed to diagnose, create treatment plans, and establish guardianship. Two psychiatrists from Kahe will come next week. Governor Green signed bill creating westside behavior stabilization center (step below state mental health hospital) for higher-level medical care. State hospital will release 100 people who don’t belong there to open spaces for homeless needing that care. From Kahe to Ulehawa, about 70 people have been housed, but remaining group has highest substance abuse and behavioral health issues requiring medical attention beyond job and housing placement.
6. Fee Owner Land Control: A resident suggested giving undeveloped P-1 preservation land at Kaʻos back to state as fee owner for better control, since city DPR hasn’t been a good custodian and there’s no law enforcement due to HPD shortage.
7. CIP Project Status: Resident Johnnie-Mae Perry requested status updates on three city projects: 2014-052 (Leeward Refuse Collection Base); 2020-002 (Homeless Service Zones, $2 million); and 2010-046 (Oahu Landfill). She noted federal shutdown will increase homelessness due to Medicaid and SNAP cuts. Councilmember Tupola responded CIP projects last five years and must be reinput if not completed; she would review the three projects.
8. Homeless Sweep Documentation Preservation: Board member Meyers asked about ensuring homeless individuals’ identification documents aren’t shredded during sweeps but returned to providers or DHS. Councilmember Tupola explained DHS now makes copies of all documents, and homeless individuals are advised to keep main documents with case workers or family members. No belongings are shredded during sweeps.
9. Emergency Access Roads MOU Update: Board member Meyers shared that staff member Kika confirmed via text the MOU is circulating through departments for final reviews and ready for signing soon. She emphasized need for MOU and execution plan to address community needs, referencing ongoing issues since 2019.
10. School Resource Officers Decision Maker: Board member Aio asked who made the final decision about SRO program school selection. Councilmember Tupola responded it was a DOE decision at unknown level. The police vacancy task force discussed expanding SRO positions as retention strategy since retired officers enjoy working with students. HPD has funding to expand.
11. Priced Into Paradise Event and Nonprofit: Board member Meyers raised concerns about Councilmember Tupola’s nonprofit Empower Hawaii (formerly Andrea Tupola Foundation) and connection to “Priced Into Paradise” event, asking if it would be audited like CORE’s performance audit in Resolution 25-109 CD1. Councilmember Tupola clarified she’s not affiliated with the nonprofit anymore and not on the board. City employees can sit on nonprofit boards if unpaid. October 25th event will have nine city agencies providing resources (Work Hawaii jobs, city loan products, DPP answering questions). Registration is free.
12. November 8th Sweep Details: Board member De La Cruz asked about November 8th Ulehawa sweep, where people will go, and Governor Green’s bill regarding shots, noting her case management experience at Hale Pono and IHS. Councilmember Tupola responded they’re meeting next week with case workers to determine placements. IHS has 6 openings, Kahumana has 6, Kuliʻa Ku has 6-8, totaling around 20-25. Of 67 people in area, 44 interacted with outreach, 33 may qualify for medical treatment. Some have moved since notification. Since starting in August, 5 people housed—highest-need individuals requiring wraparound services.
13. Emergency Access Roads MOU Administrative Details: Board member Meyers asked for MOU status clarification and execution plan for maintenance (tree trimming, debris removal). Councilmember Tupola explained MOU is administrative process handled by DEM lawyers. All edits from HPD, board members, and others incorporated. Remaining edits are from private landowners regarding access. MOUs typically take 6 months to circulate for signatures. She’s working on four MOUs total. MOUs don’t address maintenance (DFM’s responsibility) but state when to open roads, who opens them, and during what events. MOUs don’t last forever and can be renewed.
14. SRO Program Selection Criteria: Board member Aio asked about SRO program decision maker and criteria. Councilmember Tupola responded DOE made decision at unknown level. Police vacancy task force discussed offering more SRO positions helps retain officers. HPD is funding and has funds to expand.
15. Paakea Road Striping: Resident Richard Landford requested center line striping on Parker Road as nighttime navigation is difficult, especially with buses.
16. Koʻolina Employment History: Resident Richard Landford shared experience growing up 1960-1970s and working with Local 5. Expressed disappointment about broken promises from Koʻolina, politicians (Kawa Clark, Henry Peters), Wildlife Brothers at Paradise Cove, and entertainers/dancers. Noted community still not welcome on property (no bus access, no city transportation).
Board of Water Supply (BWS) — [0:57:24]: Kathleen Pahinui provided the report and highlighted the following: September 2025 Statistics; Water Conservation; Follow-ups to concerns and questions shared at the September 2025 Regular Board meeting.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [1:03:30]
1. DPP and Sewer System: Resident Pikachu Shelby asked if BWS had updates from DPP regarding sewer systems for North Shore gondola project (water and wastewater management). Pahinui responded she doesn’t represent ENV and recommended getting comments into DPP by Thursday regarding wastewater concerns.
2. North Shore Background: Board member Cowles asked if backdrop behind Pahinui was North Shore. She confirmed it was Kane Hall Road near her house.
4. PRESENTATIONS — [1:05:09]
McKinney Vento Homeless Assistance Act (1987) Education for Homeless Youth — [1:05:30]: Angela Hoppe-Cruz, the Family and Community Engagement Specialist for the Nānākuli-Waiʻanae Complex Area, shared a PowerPoint presentation regarding removing barriers for academic success for homeless youth. She shared what the Department of Education (DOE) is doing to provide these children and their families with proper support through the McKinney Vento Homeless Assistance Act of 1987. Hoppe-Cruz explained that this act ensures that eligible students receive access to comparable educational services by removing barriers to school enrollment and full, basic, and daily participation in any school function or activity.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Q4WYgFJI3ipfenjNkPbvj0Bwii4lo7VG/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [1:16:22]
1. Federal Funding Concerns: Resident Austin Salcedo noted program is federally funded and part of Department of Education. He expressed concern that federal funding opens doors to Fair Housing Act obligations allowing people from all 49 states to come to area, contributing to overcrowding and lack of local resources (only supermarkets, fast food, drugstores—no industry), worst traffic congestion, and trafficking issues. He cautioned board to be careful what they accept.
2. Number of Families Served: Resident Pua asked how many families are supported and about children transitioning primary to secondary school. Cruz confirmed 532 children currently served (up from 480 in May). When asked if that’s a lot compared to other places and funding received, Cruz responded they rank second on Oahu (Maui first due to fires) and agreed 100% they need to work with neighborhood boards, senator, representative, and council member to advocate for resources as needs are different from other communities.
3. Clarification on Housing Services: Board member Meyers asked if McKinney Vento provides housing for children with housing instability. Cruz clarified program does NOT provide housing but provides assistance through CHCLs who help access housing applications, Section 8, get documentation replaced—acting as case managers. Financial support includes Holo Holo bus cards to offset costs. CHCLs (Abby Eli and Giana Hurt) go above and beyond helping families for work, housing, food distribution, and recently supported family that lost house in Nānāpuli fire. Program’s scope is providing education access so children can focus, enjoy being children, and be in safe space. They also do outreach and literacy including summer programming in shelters to prevent learning gaps.
4. Federal Cutbacks: Board member Meyers asked about potential federal cutbacks and budget impact. Cruz responded she doesn’t know but is crossing fingers and working hard with team to reach as many as possible. She believes numbers skyrocketed partly because they’re reaching more people—many like board member Manoa didn’t know about all supports available. Will focus on outreach with local, state, and community leadership to fight to keep every cent possible.
5. State DOE Support: Board member Tector asked if state DOE supports or assists the program. Cruz confirmed they have state education officer/specialist Toby Portner providing supervision alongside her, plus programming and other initiatives.
6. Child Protection: Board member Tector asked about protections for children without parents. Cruz explained they do their best to connect children to power of attorney or responsible adult able to provide love and support.
7. Mandated Reporting Protocols: Board member Tector asked about mandated reporting protocols and protections allowing families to stay together. Cruz emphasized number one goal is maintaining family stability and connection. If suspicion of child abuse or danger to self/others, they’re mandated to report. CHCLs always consult and confer, reaching out to troubleshoot before taking next steps. They don’t take reporting lightly but work to maintain stability and safe spaces. Shelter conversation is challenging because shelters don’t always house full number of family members.
[1:27:08] — Board member Meyers MOVED to support McKinney Vento in the Waiʻanae-Moku 96792 area. Board member Cowles SECONDED. Hearing no further discussion, a voice vote was conducted. The motion was ADOPTED; 9-0-0 (Aye: Aio, Asinsin, Cowles, De La Cruz, Hanohano, Manoa, Meyers, Tector, and Agustin; Nay: None; Abstain: None) — [1:27:28]
8. Additional Resources After Vote: Hoppe-Cruz shared additional resources after vote including transportation specialist, early learning specialist (0-5), re-engagement specialist (mostly unaccompanied youth 9th-12th), and COFA translator, all accessible at state level through complex.
The Cove Redevelopment Project — [1:31:29]: Jacob Aki and Kahanu Palencia-Cuban provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding their development of the current Paradise Cove property. The purpose of this redevelopment is to help reconnect people to place, celebrate Hawaiian culture, and incorporating affordable and approachable restaurants and retail stores all while ensuring local job opportunities are created. They will be utilizing the current space by creating greater accessibility for all who want to participate in what the venue has to offer in their desired way.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [1:40:25]
1. Project Cost and Cultural Concerns: Resident Pikachu Shelby asked about total cost, profit margin, and timeline. He expressed concerns about cultural prostitution, noting his nephew works at Germaine’s luau, comparing to Lilo and Stitch. He questioned lack of bus stop for workers and whether this is “giant tourist trap.” Matt Carris responded intent was never to just ground lease to another tourist operation, which is why self-developing and opening to public day and night. Commitment is economic empowerment and providing local jobs (entertainers, restaurant/retail operators, cultural offerings). Early cost estimates were $100-160 million in final environmental impact statement.
2. Local Hiring Percentage: Resident Austin Salcedo asked about percentage of hiring from 96792 district, noting many area residents already work Waikīkī or downtown and would prefer working closer to home. He asked if 50-70% hiring would be from district. Matt Carris explained investment is in buildings, programming, and operator selection. Have commitments from local operators to hold job fairs on site advertising to west side and Kapolei. Primary concern is helping transition current 173 employees. Jacob Aki added during broader community engagement, they met with west side economic development council, Native One Chamber of Commerce, Kapolei Chamber of Commerce, and small business owners. While can’t set hiring quota, opportunities will be made to ensure west side residents know about job fairs and openings.
3. City Bus Access: Kapua (online) thanked presenters but asked if they could work with employers to allow city bus access, noting employees currently walking. She also noted difficulty seeing presentation materials on WebEx split screen. Matt Carris explained parking includes over 490 stalls with about 100 employee spaces on site. While coordinating with Koʻolina, project technically outside. They recognize transportation and bus stop issues and planned around these constraints.
4. Koʻolina History and District: Board member Meyers noted Koʻolina was originally in their neighborhood board district (reported to board under Jeff Stone), investigating why it transferred to Kapolei board. She thanked presenters for coming. She expressed support noting two Paradise Cove employees (husband and wife) from Nānākuli homestead. Wife shared owners are close to employees especially long-termers, and owners told her they’ve been struggling financially and were supposed to close a couple years ago. Meyers grateful for project since it’s hotel area providing employment for Waiʻanae Moku and doesn’t seem as large as Atlantis project. She appreciates incorporation of local cultural elements similar to Koʻolina outdoor spaces.
5. Cultural Sensitivity and Native Plants: Board member Tector thanked presenters and recalled attending April 28th town hall and testifying. She emphasized importance of remaining culturally sensitive to Hawaiian culture and royalty since it’s sanctuary where Queen Emma did cleansing, fishermen still go out, and there are plantings. Her late brother Kimo, late aunt Grandma Cope, and uncle Joseph Weilla were practitioners who spearheaded opening Lanikunuaa and Paradise Cove. She supports project provided there’s parking, bus/transportation sensitivity, and students/community members are educated and prepared with academics to have credentials for workforce opportunities.
6. Internships and School Performances: Board member Manoa expressed interest in opportunities for high school or college internships with construction or agencies during and after development. She noted it would be great having venue closer than Neal Blaisdell for school performances, mentioning her 5th grade play in January and schools performing at Moanalua Gardens Hula Hālau festivity on the 25th. She emphasized being careful about types of foliage, soil, and mulch brought in given CRB concerns, suggesting using landscapers sensitive to native plants since Pālehua is not far away.
[1:58:35] — Tector MOVED and Cowles SECONDED to support The Cove Redevelopment Project. Hearing no further discussion, a voice vote was conducted. The motion was ADOPTED; 9-0-0 (Aye: Aio, Asinsin, Cowles, De La Cruz, Hanohano, Manoa, Meyers, Tector, and Agustin; Nay: None; Abstain: None) — [1:59:51]
7. Quarterly Updates: Chair Agustin asked when developers will meet with new company to establish operations and when public forum will be held for community to ask questions about public restroom maintenance, employment rates for 96792/96707, etc.
8. Current Employee Transition: Chair Agustin noted this is last visit before December closing when employees will no longer be there. She asked if current employees who stayed are offered interviews or follow-up to continue employment in 2028.
City Park Tree Planting Initiative with Division of Urban Forestry — [2:03:48]: Roxanne Adams from the Department of Urban Forestry provided an oral presentation on the City’s Park Tree Planting Initiative. Adams shared this initiative comes from the recent issues stemming from the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle infestation affecting the trees at various beaches and City parks. This initiative will help generate a greater canopy for beach and park goers and give an opportunity for more Native trees and other foliage to be planted.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [2:07:10]
1. Removing Kiawe Trees: Board member Manoa asked if there’s possibility of removing kiawe trees from city parks to make space for native plants. Adams responded if tree is diseased, dead, or dying, they’ll remove and replace. Part of initiative is creating canopy for shade, cooling, erosion, and other benefits.
[2:09:58] — Meyers MOVED that the Nanakuli Māʻili Neighborhood Board encourage the city park tree planting initiative with Division of Urban Forestry to prioritize planting native and canoe trees for city parks in the Waiʻanae Moku 96792 district with little to no additional non-native trees and especially in consideration of firewise recommendations that communities plant native trees and plants. Cowles SECONDED. Hearing no further discussion, a voice vote was conducted. The motion was ADOPTED; 9-0-0 (Aye: Aio, Asinsin, Cowles, De La Cruz, Hanohano, Manoa, Meyers, Tector, and Agustin; Nay: None; Abstain: None) — [2:11:01]
2. Community Input: Board member Cowles noted wanting trees that hula hālau or practitioners can use in parks. Adams appreciated this and noted hoping to get enough community feedback about what trees they’d like in parks that can be used by practitioners or hula hālau. Chair Agustin offered to attach survey link to neighborhood board mail out next month for community engagement feedback from district.
3. Fire Marshal Meeting: Board member Cowles asked if there’s chance of having new state fire marshal come before board to meet. Adams said she will make that request.
5. RESIDENTS’/COMMUNITY CONCERNS — [2:16:10]
Neighborhood Safety Watch Challenges — [2:16:22]: Resident Pikachu Shelby shared challenges coordinating Neighborhood Safety Watch (NSW) meeting with HPD.
City Bill 7-2020 and Sewer Requirements — [2:18:32]: Resident Austin Salcedo brought awareness to city bill 7-2020, which Council member Tupola said died after two years but will be brought back to Radiant Cordeiro’s agenda for discussion.
Cesspools Not State Mandate — [2:19:24]: Resident Kalei Salcedo clarified that sewage line is not mandated by state but by city. City is pushing issue because they need money to continue gentrifying.
Paakea Road Center Line Striping — [2:22:54]: Resident Richard Landford requested Parker Road be center line striped as nighttime navigation is very difficult, especially with buses.
Koʻolina Employment History — [2:23:14]: Resident Richard Landford shared experience growing up on streets between 1960-1970 prior to Koʻolina coming in. After that, worked for Local 5 trying to recruit union members and get good wages for people in area. Has bone to pick because Koʻolina, politicians (Henry Peters, Kawa Clark), and others promised a lot.
6. MILITARY/STATE OFFICIALS MONTHLY REPORTS — [2:25:49]
Army Representative — [2:25:56]: Major Adam Tichey provided the report and highlighted the following:
• Training Advisory: 25th ID will execute annual JPMRC (Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center) exercise between November 7-16. Be aware of increased traffic and noise, primarily in Wheeler Airfield area, Kahuku training area, East Range, and Wahiawā area.
• Veterans Day Parade: 79th annual Wahiawā Lions Veterans Day Parade on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. Parade begins 10:00 a.m. in Wahiawā District Park and ends around 2:00 p.m. at Kahala Elementary School. All welcome to attend and support.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [2:27:02]
1. Community BBQ Event: Resident Pikachu Shelby requested scheduling joint venture event with military and west coast 96792, possibly April-June next year with OHA funding (about $15K available).
Navy Representative — [2:28:23]: No representative present.
Governor Josh Green’s Representative — Department of Agriculture Chair Sharon Herd — [2:28:30]: Sharon Herd reported the following: Avian Flu and Rat Lungworm cases; Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle tree removal; treated trees and their approved treatments; Department of Agriculture website dashboard.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [2:31:32]
1. DLNR Coastal Zone Issue: Resident Austin Salcedo requested message be sent to DLNR Don Chang and land division regarding coastline zone P-1 being mistreated.
2. Department of Education SRO Clarification: Board member Meyers asked why DOE didn’t include Nānākuli High School in SRO program.
3. Federal Shutdown Impact: Resident Pikachu Shelby asked about state jobs/people affected by federal shutdown, noting concerns about military pay/vacation/leave and SNAP benefits (crime will increase if benefits taken away).
4. Emergency Siren Fixed: Board member Hanohano (online) reported emergency siren at Princess Kahanu is fixed and really loud. Thanked them for getting it fixed after working on it for a while.
5. Milk Recall: Board member De La Cruz asked about 15 illnesses confirmed with milk recall in DOE schools, lack of notices for parents, and DOE follow-up.
6. SNAP Funding: Board member Meyers asked what happens with SNAP program on November 1st. Sharon Herd responded it’s uncertain. Governor Josh Green reserved about $50 million for moment, but implementation is question.
7. Fire Marshal Meeting: Board member Cowles asked about chance of having new state fire marshal come before board to meet.
State Senate (District 22) — Samantha DeCorte — [2:41:07]: Senator DeCorte reported the ongoing work for the inoperable sirens in the community has bene completed. All sirens are working.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [2:42:18]
1. Central Food Hub: Resident Eleanor asked about Senator Dela Cruz’s request for $30 million for central food hub for DOE.
2. Department of Hawaiian Homelands (DHHL) Budget Audit: Resident Johnnie-Mae Perry (online) asked if senator got answer about auditing DHHL budget.
3. Jasmine Moore Hostage Situation: Resident Pikachu Shelby noted they addressed Jasmine Moore hostage situation and magically she came back home.
4. Federal Shutdown Support: Board member Manoa asked about supporting families during shutdown with additional support for families whose income has gone to zero. Will share information with board for email distribution.
5. Special Session: Board member Meyers asked if Speaker of House is being proactive about reconvening to address possible lockdown. Senator DeCorte responded at this time, hasn’t received notice of reconvening session.
State House (District 44) — Darius Kila — [2:46:05]: Representative Kila reported the following: Executive order on roadway fatalities; Nānākuli Elementary School community work days; the SRO program; his recent DHHL Townhall and upcoming community Talk Story; the University of Hawaiʻi UHERO presentation scheduled for Wednesday, November 19, 2025; recognizing a teacher in the community; Nānākuli Elementary School CIP funds for school improvements; vaccine clinics; a visit from Congresswoman Jill Tokuda; Lualualei bypass; firewiseand e-waste efforts; supporting Kamehameha Schools; the Honolulu Charter Commission; University of Hawaiʻi Athletics presenting opportunities.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed — [2:49:33]
1. Talk Story Flyer: Resident Pikachu Shelby thanked Representative Kila for talk story session flyer for October 24th Friday. Also thanked him for standing in rain at Nānākuli sign waving for Kamehameha Schools with Kurt Favella. Noted fourth session challenging casinos was six sessions and standing in rain matters.
2. Special Session: Board member Meyers asked if Speaker of House is being proactive about reconvening to address possible lockdown.
Department of Hawaiian Homelands Representative — [2:51:51]: No representative present.
Office of Hawaiian Affairs — [2:51:57]: No representative present.
7. BOARD BUSINESS — [2:52:04]
Board Member Attendance at Community Meetings — [2:52:56]: Chair Agustin tabled this item and requested members submit their attendance at community meetings by email to be included in minutes.
Nānākuli-Māʻili Neighborhood Board PVT Landfill Site Visit — [2:53:11]: Chair Agustin noted site visit scheduled for Friday, October 24, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. Need at least five members to indicate attendance. Six members raised hands (Asinsin, Cowles, De La Cruz, Manoa, Meyers, Tector).
[2:54:29] — Meyers MOVED and Tector SECONDED that neighborhood board do site visit on October 24th Friday at 3:00 p.m. at PVT Landfill. Hearing no further discussion, a voice vote was conducted. The motion was ADOPTED; 9-0-0 (Aye: Aio, Asinsin, Cowles, De La Cruz, Hanohano, Manoa, Meyers, Tector, and Agustin; Nay: None; Abstain: None) — [2:54:54]
2025 Kapolei City Lights “Season of Stars” Courtyard of Trees — [2:54:54]: This is the third annual participation in Season of Stars Courtyard of Trees invitation to participate in decorating Christmas tree before Saturday, December 6, 2025 annual parade and block party.
[2:56:13] — Meyers MOVED and Manoa SECONDED to participate in 2025 Kapolei City Lights Season of Stars Courtyard of Trees. Five members raised hands indicating ability to participate in decorating tree. Hearing no further discussion, a voice vote was conducted. The motion was ADOPTED; 9-0-0 (Aye: Aio, Asinsin, Cowles, De La Cruz, Hanohano, Manoa, Meyers, Tector, and Agustin; Nay: None; Abstain: None) — [2:56:33]
8. COMMITTEE REPORTS — [2:56:33]
Due to time constraints, Chair Agustin announced committee meeting schedules:
• Transportation Chair — Germaine Meyers: 1st Thursday 6:30 PM, Nānākuli Public Library
• Housing & Zoning Chair — Germaine Meyers: 1st Thursday 8:00 PM, Nānākuli Public Library
• Education Chair — Valerie-Mae Manoa: 2nd Thursday 6:30 PM, Nānākuli Public Library
• Water & Land Chair — Valerie-Mae Manoa: 2nd Thursday 8:00 PM, Nānākuli Public Library
• Hawaiian Affairs Chair — Mapuana Tector: 3rd Wednesday 6:00 PM, Nānākuli Public Library
• Park & Recreation Chair — James Cowles: Last Tuesday 6:30 PM, Kalanianaʻole Beach Park
• Public Health & Safety Chair — Paul Aio: No meeting in October; November last Tuesday 7:30 PM, Kalanianaʻole Beach Park
9. ANNOUNCEMENTS — [2:57:47]
• October 24, 2025, 7:00 PM at Kamalei Academy: Talk Story Friday with Representatives Muraoka and Kila
• October 25, 2025, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Blaisdell Expo Hall: Council member Tupola’s Priced Into Paradise
• November 7, 2025: Deadline to submit Honolulu Charter Commission proposals at https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/charter-commission
• Special Meeting: Board will hold private meeting with Charter Commission prior to November 7th to provide board proposals
• Next Regular Board Meeting: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM, at Nānākuli Public Library and via WebEx Platform
10. ADJOURNMENT — [2:58:51]: The meeting was adjourned at 9:59 p.m.
Submitted by: Jeffrey Jones, Neighborhood Assistant, Neighborhood Commission Office
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, Neighborhood Commission Office
Finalized by:
To view agenda and minutes, visit our board website.
Event shows physical location; however, other options of participation may also include WebEx and phone. If available, instructions for WebEx and phone can be found at the top of the agenda.