HAWAI‘I KAI NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 1
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA – Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Time and Location: 7:00 p.m.,
Hahaʻione Elementary School Cafeteria, and Web Access:
Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=mc6784c3106d34ccaa8d4be9e29f3279f
Meeting Number/Access Code: 2498 556 8981
Password: NB01 (6201)
Join by Phone: +1-408-418-9388
Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ZNUDkxp2QU3dU9HJritG0vz3iFWRBceU
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice
1. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Roberta Mayor
1.1. Introduction of Board members
2. STATUS REPORTS–Three (3) minutes maximum per department. Questions to follow.
2.1. Honolulu Fire Department
2.2. Honolulu Police Department
2.3. Board of Water Supply
2.4 Kaiser Complex Schools
2.5. Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation
3. COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS – Brief announcements by board members and
the public on events, activities, and general information directly relating to Hawaiʻi Kai.
4. PUBLIC-GENERATED ISSUES– Two (2) minutes per speaker. Questions to follow.
Issues/concerns not listed elsewhere on the Board’s agenda may be raised but no Board action may be taken because of the “Sunshine Law.”
5. PRESENTATIONS – Ten (10) minutes per presentation. Questions to follow. Discussion
or action as needed.
5.1. Hawaiʻi Energy EmPOWER Grants – Small Business & Non-Profit Program
Overview – Presenter: Sophia Somers, Energy Advisor, Hawaiʻi Energy & Leidos
Proprietary
5.2. Exceptional Tree Program – Presenter: Heather McMillen, Arborist, Hawaiʻi Division of Forest & Wildlife, and Member of the Mayor’s Arborist Advisory Committee
6.VACANCIES: Sub-districts 1, 7, and 8.
Appointment through June 2027. Three minutes per candidate. See endnote.1
7. OFFICIALS’ REPORTS – Three (3) minutes per speaker. Reports should relate to issues of interest to residents of Hawaiʻi Kai. Questions to follow.
7.1. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – Amy Asselbaye
7.2. City Council Chair Tommy Waters – District 4
7.3. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – Cameron Black
7.4. Senator Stanley Chang – District 9
7.5. Senator Chris Lee – District 25
7.6. Representative Joe Gedeon – District 18
7.7. Representative Mark Hashem – District 19
7.8. Congressional Representatives
8. BOARD BUSINESS – For discussion/action. Five (5) minutes per item.
8.1. Update on Kaiwi Coast Scenic Byway; Protecting Local Bird Colonies
8.2. Update on Kamilo Nui Valley Agriculture
9. BOARD COMMITTEES
9.1. Board Committees: Transportation; Education; Parks & Recreation; Planning, Zoning & Environment
9.2. Announcements by committee chairpersons or members as needed.
10. APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING MINUTES – Minutes for Tuesday, September 30, 2025.
11. OTHER BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
11.1. Board Member Announcements
11.2. Board Chairperson Announcements
11.2.1. Correspondence
11.2.2. Other Announcements
12. CLOSING ANNOUNCEMENTS
12.1. The next regular meeting of the Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board is on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at 7:00 pm at the Haha’ione Elementary School Cafeteria and on Webex.
12.2. Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board regular meetings are cablecast on Olelo Ch. 49 on the 2nd Monday of the following month at 9:00 p.m. and repeating on that month’s 3rd Friday at 7:00 a.m. Videos can also be seen online at www.olelo.org/olelonet (search “Hawaiʻi Kai Board”), or via www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards (“Board Meeting Video Archive”).
13. ADJOURNMENT
1 VACANCIES: SUB DISTRICT 1 (Marina West), SUBDISTRICT 7 (Kalama Valley), and SUB DISTRICT 8 (Lunalilo Park, Mauka) – Appointment through June 30, 2027. Candidates must be 18 or older and reside in their district (bring official ID). Board majority of at least eight votes needed for appointment. More than one round of voting may occur. Successful candidate(s) will take Oath of Office upon appointment. Boundary descriptions are available online at http://www.honolulu.gov/cms-nco-menu/site-nco-sitearticles/20115-board-subdistrict-descriptions.html.
For agenda, minutes, member contact directory, and other information, go to www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards.
To receive this Board’s agenda and minutes by mail or email, visit the Neighborhood Commission Office, 925 Dillingham Blvd., Suite 160, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817; call 768-3710 or fax 768-3711; or go to www.honolulu.gov/nco.
If you would like to attend a Neighborhood Board meeting and have questions about accommodations for a physical disability or a special physical need, call the Neighborhood Commission Office at 808-768-3710 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at least 24 hours before the scheduled meeting.
DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2025, AT 7:00 PM
IN PERSON AT HAHA’IONE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CAFETERIA, 595 PEPE’EKEO ST, HONOLULU, HI 96825
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX
Video recording of this meeting is found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qUyXPcQe_A
Meeting materials are found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ZNUDkxp2QU3dU9HJritG0vz3iFWRBceU
1. CALL TO ORDER [0:00:02]: Chair Roberta Mayor called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. and passed the gavel to Acting Chair Elizabeth Reilly to conduct the meeting, as Chair Mayor was participating online.
Quorum was established with 8 members of the Board present. Note: This 15-member Board requires eight (8) members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action.
Board Members Present: Robbie Allen, Tiffany Donnelly, Lisa Bishop, Roberta Mayor (online), Elizabeth Reilly, Herb Schreiner, Johanna Ward, Samuel Wolff, Elijah Lee (online – joined 8:28 p.m.), and Paula Bender (appointed 8:51 p.m.)
Board Members Absent: Paige Altonn and Greg Knudsen.
Guest Total: Firefighter Brandon Felix (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Taro Nakamura (Honolulu Police Department); Civil Engineer Iris Oda (Board of Water Supply); Principal Shannon Goo; Management Analyst Galen Wong (Hawaiʻi State Department of Transportation); Jonathan Lance (the State Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission); Janis Matsunaga (Division of Forestry & Wildlife) and Dr. Paul Krushelnycky (University of Hawaiʻi Mānoa); Executive Director Amy Asselbaye (Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative), Energy Analyst Cameron Black (Governor Josh Green’s Representative); Representative Joe Gedeon; Judith Nii, Mike Buck, Oscar Ramirez, Mardi LaPrade, Chris Cramer, Michael Garrison, Rosemary Nishi, Judith Gage, Johnnie Mae L., Perry, Alana Libed, Scot Long (residents); and Anson Wu (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name not included if not legible or stated for the record. There were approximately 37 total participants.
2. STATUS REPORTS [0:01:37]
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) [0:01:58]: Firefighter Brandon Felix provided a response to Member Schreiner’s inquiry, indicating there were no plans to rebuild or move the Wailupe fire station. He reported the August 2025 statistics: 1 structure fire, 1 wildland fire, 3 activated alarms, 97 medical emergencies, 6 motor-vehicle collisions, 4 mountain rescues, 3 ocean rescues, and 1 hazardous-material incident. Firefighter Felix also provided fire safety tips for Fire Prevention Week focusing on lithium-ion battery safety, including proper purchasing, charging, and recycling of these batteries. He announced HFD’s Fire Prevention Family Day event on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at the Honolulu Zoo from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Honolulu Police Department (HPD) [0:04:55]: Lieutenant Taro Nakamura provided August 2025 crime statistics: 4 motor-vehicle thefts, 1 burglary, 9 thefts, 4 unauthorized entries into motor vehicles, and 5,882 total calls for service. Lieutenant Nakamura directed the public to honolulupd.org for full statistics and provided flash flood preparedness safety tips, emphasizing the importance of staying alert to emergency warnings.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:06:43]
1. Security Cameras at Lookouts: Board Member Schreiner asked about security cameras at lookouts that were mentioned in the news. Lieutenant Nakamura responded that he hadn’t heard specific feedback about the cameras but emphasized that prevention through common sense measures like not leaving valuables in cars is also important.
2. Vehicle Width Regulations: Board Member Wolff asked about regulations for oversized vehicles parked on city streets, noting issues with large boats, containers, dumpsters, and commercial vehicles on Hawaiʻi Kai Drive creating safety hazards. Lieutenant Nakamura explained that while each situation is different, vehicles more than 12 feet from the curb that impede traffic or emergency vehicle access are in violation. He recommended calling 911 for specific violations.
3. Boat Trailer Hazards: Resident Judith Gage reported nearly hitting a boat trailer that remains parked on Hawaiʻi Kai Drive despite previous complaints, suggesting “No Boat” parking signs as a solution. Lieutenant Nakamura acknowledged the issue and explained that while HPD can cite vehicles, they cannot tow them due to limitations in the law, recommending continued reporting of violations. Lieutenant Nakamura recommended calling 911 for specific violations. Acting Chair Reilly will speak with Chair Mayor to add this issue to the next meeting. Chair Mayor suggested adding boat trailers to the letter that will be presented at tonight’s meeting.
4. Vehicle Tow: Member Schreiner asked what can residents do to help tow the vehicles. Lieutenant Nakamura reminded that HPD can only cite and cannot tow.
5. Neighborhood Watch: Resident Rosemary Nishi asked if HPD is still active with the Neighborhood Watch. Lieutenant Nakamura confirmed that they have a community policing team that works with the neighborhood watch. Resident Nishi asked if they have meetings. Lieutenant Nakamura did not have the answer but will provide the phone number for the neighborhood policing team.
6. Homeless: Resident Nishi raised concerns of homeless people living in their cars at the boat ramp. Lieutenant Nakamura acknowledged that HPD addresses violations at Maunalua Bay regularly through citations and arrests, but noted that individuals often return, making it an ongoing situation that requires continuous monitoring.
7. Homelessness at Park and Ride: Board Member Ward reported increasing homelessness at the Hawaiʻi Kai Park and Ride, noting that since Tuesday, July 1, 2025, the number has grown from zero to about five individuals, creating discomfort for women commuters taking early morning buses. Lieutenant Nakamura encouraged calling HPD when specific violations occur, noting that homelessness itself is not a crime, but they can address specific violations and their (HPD) presence may serve as a deterrent.
Board of Water Supply (BWS) [0:25:48]: Iris Oda from BWS reported no main breaks in August 2025 for the neighborhood and requested community cooperation to reduce water usage by 20% due to lower-than-normal rainfall and high-water demand. Conservation tips included turning off taps while brushing teeth or washing hands, shortening showers, using garden hose nozzles, and irrigating early in the morning to reduce evaporation. The representative directed residents to boardofwatersupply.com for conservation information and rebates.
Kaiser Complex Schools [0:27:18]: Principal Shannon Goo of Hahaʻione Elementary School, representing the Kaiser Complex, reported that the complex is an International Baccalaureate school system focused on building a community of learners. He highlighted their goal to graduate every student with knowledge of another world language. Principal Goo announced Kaiser High School’s homecoming parade on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 starting at 5:30 p.m. from Koko Head District Park and ending at Kaiser High School’s Driveway, and Kaiser’s homecoming football game on Friday, October 3, 2025. He mentioned Niu Valley Middle School’s fall clubs and the Japanese language programs offered at Niu Valley Middle, ‘Āina Haina, Hahaʻione, Kamiloʻiki, and Koko Head Elementary schools.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:30:55]
1. Additional Comments: Principal Goo provided additional comments regarding the importance of learning another language.
Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) [0:31:21]: Management Analyst Galen Wong provided follow-up information on previous board questions. Regarding Hanauma Bay traffic management, Wong explained that guards and cones are up at 6:00 a.m., gates open at 6:45 a.m., and signs direct cars not to stop when cones are up. For the Koko Marina traffic study, HDOT paid $120,240, with most costs due to data collection and analysis of intersections and shopping center access points. Wong explained that moving the left turn in/out of Koko Marina wasn’t considered because shopping center representatives told HDOT over 20 years ago it wasn’t an option. He clarified that the yield sign after the crosswalk at the Lunalilo Home Road intersection is for vehicles to yield to other vehicles, not for pedestrians. Wong noted that none of the proposed traffic improvements will be implemented by HDOT due to negative cost ratios and lack of funding, suggesting that legislators would need to obtain appropriations for any improvements.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:38:32]
1. Koko Marina Traffic Solutions: Member Wolff suggested a simpler solution for the Koko Marina left turn issue, recommending installing metal poles in the center median similar to those on Kalanianaʻole Highway rather than expensive infrastructure changes. Wong responded that they would need to involve the shopping center in discussions about preventing left turns in/out of their property.
2. Hanauma Bay Clarification: Member Bishop requested clarification about Hanauma Bay traffic management. Wong explained that the City and County Transportation Services manages the area with HDOT’s approval, allowing coning at 6:00 a.m. and vehicle entry beginning at 6:45 a.m.
3. Native Plant Restoration: Member Wolff inquired about recently killed haole koa in the center median along Kalanianaʻole Highway and requested information about what spray was used. He also asked about replacing dead naupaka bushes in the median with native plants like naupaka or ilima to beautify the area. Wong agreed to check with maintenance and get back to the board about what was used and the possibility of native plant restoration.
4. Makapu’u Safety Concerns: Resident Judith Gage expressed concern about safety at Makapuʻu parking area, sharing that her son lost a leg in 2015 when a truck came off the road while he was loading his surfboard into his SUV. She questioned whether beautification efforts should take priority over safety measures. Acting Chair Reilly responded that Makapuʻu parking is what it is with no additional parking planned, as the goal for Kaiwi is to keep it in its wild and natural state. She offered to connect with the resident after the meeting to provide information about jurisdictional responsibilities and contacts.
3. COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS [0:49:59]
Higher Advocates for Responsible Development (HARD) [0:50:13]: Resident Oscar Ramirez from Hahaione Advocates for Respectful Development (HARD) provided an update on their opposition to further high-rise development in Haha’ione Valley, reporting continued community outreach and petition growth both online and through ground efforts. He thanked the Oahu Club, Representative Gedeon, and Chair Waters for their support, and encouraged community involvement through their website.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:52:34]:
1. Contact Information: Acting Chair Reilly asked Resident Ramirez to share how someone can get in touch with the organization. Resident Ramirez provided the website address and explained what the website contains.
Livable Hawaiʻi Kai Hui [0:53:32]: Resident Mardi LaPrade, Livable Hawaiʻi Kai Hui, announced monthly community events including open houses at Keawāwa Wetland and Hāwea Heiau Complex on the second Saturday of the month, weekly volunteer events on Thursdays, and Kaiwi hikes in November 2025. Information is available at lhkh.org. She invited everyone to visit the website to RSVP or sign up for events to learn more about Hawaiian plants, animals, and the community.
Hawaiʻi Kai Mile [0:54:52]: Resident Michael Garrison, owner of Hawaiʻi Running Lab, announced the third Hawaiʻi Kai Mile on Sunday, November 2, 2025 from the Kamiloiki skate park to Kaiser High School, expecting about 250 runners with approximately 30% being children.
Maunalua Fishpond Heritage Center [0:55:35]: Resident Chris Cramer informed that their organization offers community work days at the fish ponds. He also reported a recent incident where 21 Koaʻe Ula (red-tailed tropicbirds) were killed at the Sandy Beach/Lānaʻi Lookout area. He noted this is the only nesting colony on Oahu and requested the board consider this issue as a future agenda item, suggesting community action could help protect these birds as has been done successfully at Kaʻena Point.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:58:03]
1. Bird Protection Collaboration: Acting Chair Reilly suggested connecting Dr. Eric VanderWerf with the board to start a conversation about protecting the tropicbirds. Cramer agreed and noted that Kaʻena Point provides an example of how fencing and protective measures have helped these birds return.
Hawaiʻi Kai Holiday Parade [0:59:25]: Chair Mayor announced the Hawaiʻi Kai Holiday Parade scheduled for Saturday, November 29, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., hosted by the Hawaiʻi Kai Lions Club and Koko Marina Center.
Feral Cat Management [0:59:45]: Member Wolff mentioned that in early 2023 he had introduced a resolution modeling a bill passed in Kauai County and Hawaiʻi Island to prevent feeding of feral animals on county property, but the previous board did not vote on it due to community opposition. He suggested revisiting this issue given the recent bird deaths.
4. PUBLIC-GENERATED ISSUES [1:01:37]
No additional public-generated issues were raised beyond those addressed during community announcements.
5. PRESENTATIONS [1:02:04]
Climate Action Pathways Report [1:02:34]: Jonathan Lance from the State Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission presented the Climate Action Pathways (CAP) report, which provides a roadmap for addressing climate change impacts including rising heat, flooding, sea level rise, coastal erosion, intense storms, drought, and wildfire risk. The report contains 23 specific measures across eight sectors: energy, building efficiency, transportation, agriculture, forestry, land use, waste, and circular/well-being economies. Lance explained they are in the public commentary period (extended beyond Tuesday, September 30, 2025) and encouraged community input through their online platform. He noted that the commission is adding additional chapters on resilience, adaptation to extreme weather, sea level rise, health, military land use, and natural resource protection.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:17:04]
1. Report Implementation: Member Bishop asked about the relationship between the Climate Commission and the Hawaiʻi State Energy Office. Lance explained that the Energy Office has been a key partner in developing the report, especially with calculations and modeling how actions will reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Member Bishop asked how the report would be implemented and inquired about the deadline extension for comments, noting that the current deadline was that day (Tuesday, September 30, 2025). He confirmed they would extend the comment period for another week and explained that while the Climate Commission is an advisory council without regulatory power, they plan to source funding for implementation and work with legislators to introduce policies in the upcoming legislative session. He noted the report was funded by an EPA climate pollution reduction grant with a Monday, December 1, 2025 deadline, after which they would continue to shape the report based on feedback.
2. Prioritization Process: Member Donnelly asked if the 23 recommendations would be prioritized. Lance confirmed that public feedback is helping identify priorities, with bike paths and urban tree canopies receiving strong support so far. He explained that the 23 measures were already narrowed down from a longer list based on community feedback, stakeholder input, and technical working groups.
3. Public Outreach: Resident Perry asked how the report was advertised for public input. Lance described efforts through social media, radio, Hawaiʻi Public Radio (HPR), community organizational partners, libraries, neighborhood boards, and community events, acknowledging challenges in reaching everyone. She also expressed surprise that heat concerns ranked only at 5%, given its impact on farming and produce production. He agreed with her surprise about heat not ranking higher, just as he was surprised wildfires didn’t make the top concerns list.
4. Distribution Channels: Acting Chair Reilly suggested that in the future, Lance could send materials to the Neighborhood Commission Office for distribution to all neighborhood boards, even if they couldn’t make presentations in person. Lance agreed this was a great suggestion.
Member Lee arrived to the meeting at (8:28 p.m.); 9 members present.
Yellow-Faced Bee Conservation and Management [1:29:29]: Janis Matsunaga, Entomologist with the Division of Forestry & Wildlife, Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), presented on conservation efforts for the endangered Hylaeus anthracinus (yellow-faced bee/nalo meli meli) at Kaiwi. She explained that DLNR received a three-year grant from Fish and Wildlife Service to continue planting native plants and monitoring bee populations, working with partners including Dr. Paul Krushelnycky (University of Hawaiʻi Mānoa), DLNR Division of State Parks, and 808 Cleanups. Matsunaga showed how symbolic fencing (post and rope method) has successfully deterred trampling of sensitive areas while maintaining public access, and described interpretive signage used to educate visitors.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:35:43]
1. Equipment Support: Member Wolff asked if DLNR could provide electric equipment alternatives to gas-powered tools that affect the bees during volunteer cleanup work. Matsunaga wasn’t aware of this issue but committed to discussing it with 808 Cleanups at their upcoming meeting.
2. Bee Behavior: Resident Bender asked if the yellow-faced bees create hives and produce honey. Matsunaga explained they don’t form colonies or produce honey, but instead have single nests.
3. Population Monitoring: Board Member Bishop asked if conservation actions have increased bee numbers. Dr. Krushelnycky explained they monitor relative abundance, finding that populations fluctuate seasonally and yearly based on flowering patterns, making long-term trends difficult to determine without extended monitoring.
4. Contact Information: Acting Chair Reilly asked for any website for more information and possible volunteer work. Matsunaga will provide the website and Dr. Krushelnycky informed residents they can contact state parks to get involved.
5. Trespassing Prevention: Resident Perry asked about trespassing violation signs. Matsunaga explained they use various signage and boulders to prevent off-road driving, while trying to maintain the natural scenery without excessive signage. She noted that while volunteers often talk to people about staying out of sensitive areas, they cannot monitor the site 24/7.
6. Educational Outreach: Resident Perry asked about school excursions to educate children about the yellow-faced bees. Dr. Krushelnycky confirmed that State Parks works with school groups, providing interpretive talks during hikes in the area.
6. VACANCIES [1:43:21]
Filling of Vacancy in Subdistrict 1, 8, and 9 [1:43:39]: Resident Paula Bender expressed interest in filling the vacancy for Subdistrict 9. She introduced herself as a Hawaiʻi resident since 1981, having worked for Kaiser Permanente, the Honolulu Advertiser as a freelance journalist, and as a substitute teacher for the Department of Education (DOE). Currently, she works with the Hawaiʻi Bicycling League on road safety initiatives.
[1:47:39] – Samuel Wolff nominated Paula Bender to fill the vacancy in Subdistrict 9. Hearing no further nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. Paula Bender filled the vacancy for Subdistrict 9; 9-0 (Bender: Allen, Bishop, Donnelly, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Wolff, Lee, and Ward; Abstain: None) [1:47:48].
7. OFFICIALS’ REPORTS [1:49:15]
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative [1:49:25]: Executive Director Amy Asselbaye announced that the once-per-decade City Charter review is underway, with a Friday, November 7, 2025 deadline for community proposals. She reported that a Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) inspector issued a notice of violation to the owner of 404 Portlock Road for an unauthorized walkway and sprinkler system in the unimproved sidewalk area. She mentioned that if there is possible commercial use on residential property, you can submit a zoning violation on the DPP’s website. Regarding Hale Manu affordable housing, she confirmed a permit is in process to convert three-bedroom units to one and two-bedroom units, which would increase affordable units from 55 to 69. She noted that Managing Director Mike Formby is requesting the developer brief the neighborhood board on these plans. Executive Director Asselbaye also mentioned that the Hanauma Bay Education and Interpretive Program solicitation closed on Friday, September 26, 2025.
Neighborhood Assistant Wu conducted the oath of office to Paula Bender, who was appointed to the board (8:51 p.m.); Board member Bender took her seat. 10 members present.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:53:46]
1. Affordable Housing Conversion Concerns: Acting Chair Reilly expressed disappointment about the Hale Manu conversion, noting that families with children are being displaced and forced to find new housing and schools.
2. Opposition to Conversion: Chair Mayor voiced opposition to the conversion and willingness to communicate this to developers. She emphasized the importance of maintaining three-bedroom rental units in Hawaiʻi Kai. Executive Director Asselbaye suggested the board request the developer to come and explain their permit.
3. Board Action: Chair Mayor suggested this issue might be put on the next agenda or a letter could be sent to request the developer to attend the board meeting. Board members agreed to have Chair Mayor send a letter inviting the developer and expressing concerns.
4. Appreciation for Managing Director: Member Bishop thanked Managing Director Mike Formby for personally reaching out to the developer on the board’s behalf.
Councilmember Tommy Waters – District 4 [1:58:36]: No representative present
Governor Josh Green’s Representative [1:59:03]: Energy Analyst Cameron Black reported that the Koko Head/Portlock siren is now fully operational as of Friday, September 12, 2025 crediting Representative Gedeon for encouraging Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA) to prioritize the coastal siren. Black highlighted 14 state government job postings in the Governor’s September 2025 newsletter and noted the Hawaiʻi State Energy Office’s involvement in the Climate Action Pathways report, particularly supporting renewable energy, permitting process improvements, and power plant efficiency measures.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:01:56]
1. Nuclear Energy Exploration: Member Wolff asked if the state is considering nuclear energy to meet renewable goals. Black confirmed that the legislature created a nuclear working group in the last session to evaluate this option, noting it’s in early exploratory stages.
2. Hawaiʻi Kai Drive/Wailua Street Development: Board Member Schreiner asked about plans for a property at Hawaiʻi Kai Drive and Wailua Street that was part of a land swap with Hawaiian Homelands, expressing concern about potential zoning changes and development types. Acting Chair Reilly also noted concerns about the Governor’s executive order for affordable housing that could potentially bypass normal planning processes. Black promised to seek information on the conditions of the swap and development plans.
3. Wildfire Restoration: Member Wolff asked if the state has plans to repopulate burned areas with native plants after wildfires, suggesting aerial seed bombing to prevent highly flammable invasive species like California grasses or ironwood trees from returning. He inquired whether the state maintains a seed bank to take advantage of newly cleared land for native plant restoration. Black offered to consult with DLNR, which he guessed would be the responsible agency, and provide information at a future meeting.
Senator Stanley Chang – District 9 [2:06:18]: No representative present
Senator Chris Lee – District 25 [2:06:29]: No representative present.
Representative Joe Gedeon – District 18 [2:06:51]: Representative Gedeon presented certificates of appreciation to returning and new board members. He shared results from his community survey identifying dining/restaurants (75.5%) and grocery shopping options (69.3%) as the top desired businesses for Hawaiʻi Kai, with entertainment/recreation as a distant third. This information has been shared with Hawaiʻi Kai Town Center, Koko Marina, and Hawaiʻi Kai Shopping Center developers. Represenative Gedeon announced that Maunalua Bay improvement work is progressing, with completion expected by April 2026. He reported that his office is restarting a homeless tracking program to address community concerns and announced a new monthly “Let’s Talk Story” series beginning Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. at Savon (below Roy’s at Hawaiʻi Kai Town Center) featuring Hawaiian Electric representatives. He also invited constituents to join a Capitol tour on Monday, October 6, 2025 from 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:18:45]
1. Alternative Power Line Proposal: Member Wolff asked about reviving a 20-year-old proposal for an alternative power line down Kalanianaʻole Highway to address power outages. Representative Gedeon confirmed Hawaiian Eletric Company (HECO) is hesitant due to previous pushback and lawsuits but suggested raising this at the upcoming Let’s Talk Story.
2. Emergency Siren Status: Representative Gedeon clarified that while the online dashboard may show the Koko Head and Portlock siren as non-operational, it has been confirmed operational but the dashboard hasn’t been updated since they do screenshots only once a month.
Representative Mark Hashem – District 19 [2:20:32]: No representative present.
Congressional Representatives [2:20:35]: No other representative present.
8. BOARD BUSINESS [2:20:47]
Update on Kaiwi Coast Scenic Byway [2:20:50]: Acting Chair Reilly will ask Chair Mayor to add the concern regarding the Koaʻe Ula to the agenda, perhaps as part of the Kaiwi Coast update.
Update on Kamilo Nui Valley Agriculture [2:21:33]: Resident Judy Nii reported that four farmers have left the valley, two more will leave by year’s end, and six farmers remain. Current licenses expire at the end of June 2026, and Kamehameha Schools has made no commitments to the farmers. Some remaining farmers have invested significantly in their operations and hope for feasible long-term leases from Kamehameha School to recoup their investments.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:23:21]
1. Poinsettia Availability: Acting Chair Reilly asked if poinsettias would still be available from her Kamilo Nui Valley nursery. Ms. Nii confirmed they are working really hard on it now and that there would be at least one more year of poinsettias from the valley. She explained that her own lease ends in June 2026 of next year, after which she won’t be growing them anymore. She noted that poinsettias represent a significant portion of her revenue and expressed hope that Kamehameha Schools would offer a reasonable plan and a reasonable lease.
Consider Sending Letter to Honolulu City Council to Revise Ordinances Governing Commercial Vehicles on Residential Streets [2:24:07]: Member Wolff read Chair Mayor’s draft letter aloud requesting revision of ordinances 15-16.6 (storage and parking of commercial vehicles) and 15-13.8 (abandoned vehicles) to eliminate loopholes allowing large commercial vehicles to remain parked on residential streets, and requesting the city renegotiate its towing contract to include oversized vehicles.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:26:44]
1. Including Boats and Boat Trailers: Member Bishop suggested adding boats and boat trailers to the letter, noting they may not be classified as commercial vehicles. She asked about the specific language in the ordinance and whether it covered recreational vessels. After reviewing the ordinance language with Member Ward, she confirmed that recreational boats and trailers would not be covered and requested they be specifically added to the letter.
[2:28:30] – Member Schreiner MOVED and Member Ward SECONDED to send a letter to the Honolulu City Council to Revise Ordinances Governing Commercial Vehicles on Residential Streets. Discussion continued.
2. Including Boats and Boat Trailers (Continued): Member Schreiner agreed with Member Bishop to add boats and boat trailers to the letter. Chair Mayor will add the changes to the letter.
3. Distinction Between Commercial and Personal Vehicles: Member Lee noted there’s a distinction between commercial vehicles and personal property like boats, suggesting different considerations might be appropriate.
4. Complaint-Based Enforcement: Member Bender recommended that enforcement for personal property (versus commercial vehicles) should be complaint-based rather than automatic, to maintain neighborhood harmony.
5. Vehicle Width Concerns: Member Ward suggested that future discussions might focus on vehicle width rather than vehicle type, as the primary safety concern is vehicles that force other traffic to cross the center line.
6. Clarification of Regulations: Member Wolff noted that even HPD officers seem unclear about specific regulations regarding vehicle width and safety requirements.
7. Vehicle Width Concerns (continued): Member Lee agreed with Member Ward to consider the revisions to the ordinance in regards to the car’s width and not vehicle type.
[2:34:36] – Hearing no further discussion and no objections, the Letter to Honolulu City Council to Revise Ordinances Governing Commercial Vehicles on Residential Streets WAS ADOPTED with amendments; 10-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Bishop, Donnelly, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Wolff, Lee, Ward, and Bender; Nay: None; Abstain: none) – [2:34:44].
Consider Closing Kamiloiki Community Park Restrooms Overnight (10:00 p.m. – 5:00 a.m.) [2:34:54]: Board Member Schreiner reported that after investigating this issue in his district, HPD statistics showed only one noise complaint at night, and his personal observations revealed minimal nighttime activity at the park. He recommended dropping the issue.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:36:39]
1. Board Action: Acting Chair Reilly acknowledged the recommendation and indicated she would let Chair Mayor know the Board’s sentiment and defer to Chair Mayor on whether to keep it on the agenda or remove it. Chair Mayor agreed the item should be removed from the agenda unless future complaints arise.
9. BOARD COMMITTEES [2:37:21]: No reports given.
10. OTHER BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS [2:37:36]: No additional announcements shared.
11. APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING MINUTES [2:37:51]
[2:38:10] – Member Bishop MOVED and Member Bender SECONDED to approve the August 26, 2025 regular meeting minutes as written. Hearing no objections, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 10-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Bishop, Donnelly, Mayor, Reilly, Schreiner, Wolff, Lee, Ward, and Bender; Nay: None; Abstain: none) – [2:38:14].
12. CLOSING ANNOUNCEMENTS [2:38:37]
Meeting [2:38:38]: The next regular meeting of the Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board is Tuesday, October 28, 2025, 7:00 p.m., at Hahaʻione Elementary School Cafeteria and on WebEx.
Olelo [2:38:52]: The Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board’s regular meetings are cablecast on Olelo Ch. 49 on the 2nd Monday of the following month at 9:00 p.m. and repeating on that month’s 3rd Friday at 7:00 a.m. Videos can also be seen online at www.olelo.org/olelonet (search “Hawaiʻi Kai Board”) or via www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards (“Board Meeting Video Archive”).
13. ADJOURNMENT [2:39:16] Acting Chair Reilly adjourned the meeting at 9:40 pm.
Respectfully Submitted: Anson Wu, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed By: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, NCO
Reviewed By: Lisa Bishop, Board Secretary
Reviewed and Finalized By: Roberta Mayor, Board Chair
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.