PĀLOLO NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 6
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2025, at 7:00 P.M.
Pālolo Elementary School Cafeteria
2106 10th Avenue, Honolulu, HI, 96816
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX
Board Meetings are held on the Second Wednesday of the Month
WebEx Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=m27685da5bcb95e795bc3f5e48bc84398
Meeting Number/Access Code: 2485 427 4529
Password: NB06 (6206 from phones and video systems)
Join by Phone: +1-408-418-9388 (United States Toll)
Board Google Drive Link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1mRIiZ-kR00PVW8z-q2zHi9L60YE1mXmR
Board Meeting Recordings: http://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice
Rules of Speaking: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to raise their hand, and when recognized by the Chair, to address comments to the Chair. Speakers are encouraged to keep their comments under three (3) minutes, and those giving reports are urged to keep their reports less than three (3) minutes. Please silence all electronic devices. §2-11-311 Order and decorum. (a) All commissioners shall promote and preserve the order and decorum of the commission’s proceedings.
Note: The Board may take action 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. The presiding officer of the commission or the commission may expel any individual whose conduct at the commission meeting is disruptive, disorderly, contemptuous, or improper for the conduct of business at the commission meeting. [Effective 10/20/08] (Auth: RCH §§4-105(4), 14-102)
(Imp: RCH §§4-105(4), 14-102)
§2-14-117 Order and decorum. (a) All board members shall promote and preserve the order and decorum of the board’s proceedings. (b) The presiding officer of the board or a majority of the board may expel any individual whose conduct at the board meeting is disruptive, disorderly, contemptuous, or improper for the conduct of business at the board meeting.
[Eff 10/20/08] (Auth: RCH §14-103(a)) (Imp: RCH §14-104)
§2-14-118 Discussion. (a) When a board member or person properly before the board wishes to speak, the member or person shall address the chair, be recognized before proceeding, and shall confine remarks to the subject under discussion, avoiding personalities and abusive language.
§2-14-126 Parliamentary authority. The most current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall be the parliamentary authority of all boards when the Hawaii Revised Statutes, the charter, the Revised Ordinances of Honolulu, and the plan are silent. [Eff 10/20/08] (Auth: RCH §14-103(a)) (Imp: RCH §14-104)
1. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Ranell Asuega Fualaau
2. MONTHLY REPORTS (Three (3) minutes each including Q&A)
2.1. Honolulu Fire Department (HFD)
2.2. Honolulu Police Department (HPD)
2.3. Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Dominic Dias
3. BOARD BUSINESS
3.1. Approval of Regular Meeting Written Summaries for Video Record: Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
3.2. Filling of Vacancies – Residents interested in filling a vacant board seat must bring current proof of residency to the board meeting or contact Neighborhood Assistant Camilia Epa Gomes [camilia.epa@honolulu.gov] to verify residency in advance. Map: https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards-and-sub-district-boundary-descriptions/
3.2.1. One (1) At-Large
3.2.2. One (1) Sub-district One
3.2.3. Two (2) Sub-district Two
4. RESIDENT/COMMUNITY CONCERNS (Three (3) minutes each)
5. ELECTED OFFICIALS (Three (3) minutes each including Q&A)
6.1 Congressman Ed Case
6.2 City Councilmember Scott Nishimoto
6.3 Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – DPP Second Deputy Director Regina Malepeai
6.4 Governor Josh Green’s Representative – HI-EMA Communication Director Kiele Amundson
6.5 Representative Jackson Sayama
6.6 Senator Les Ihara Jr.
6. ANNOUNCEMENTS
6.1. Next Meeting: The Pālolo Neighborhood Board’s regular meeting will recess in January 2026. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. at Pālolo Elementary School and online via WebEx
6.2. ʻŌlelo Rebroadcasts: Rebroadcasts of the Pālolo Neighborhood Board No.6 meetings are scheduled each month on ʻŌlelo channel 49 for fourth Thursday at 9:00 p.m. and the first and third Sundays at 12:00 p.m. An archive of past meetings may be found on https://olelo.org/olelonet/ by searching <Palolo>.
7. 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, HI 96817, by telephone on (808) 768-3710, fax (808) 768-3711, or e-mailing: nco@honolulu.gov. Agenda documents and minutes are also available online at https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/boards/
All written testimony must be received in the Neighborhood Commission Office 48 hours prior to the meeting. If within 48 hours of the meeting, written and/or oral testimony may be submitted directly to the Board at the meeting. If submitting written testimony, please note the Board and agenda item(s) your testimony concerns. Send to: Neighborhood Commission Office, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817, fax (808) 768-3711, or email nbtestimony@honolulu.gov.
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
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2025 at 7:00 P.M.
PĀLOLO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CAFETERIA, 2106 10TH AVENUE, HONOLULU, HI 96816
AND VIA WEBEX
Video Recording of Meeting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFoi66luCL8
Google Drive Link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1mRIiZ-kR00PVW8z-q2zHi9L60YE1mXmR
1. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:46]: Chair Ranell Asuega-Fualaau called the Pālolo Neighborhood Board No. 6 meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Quorum was established with seven (7) members present. Note: This 13-member Board requires seven (7) members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action.
Board Members Present: Sean Aronson, Randolph Hack, Catalina Hanamura, Kaleolani Leo, Darlene Nakayama, Earl Shiraki, Ranell Asuega-Fualaau.
Board Member(s) Absent: Andrew Phomsouvanh and Keenan Tydingco.
Guests: Firefighter K. Vares (Honolulu Fire Department); Dominic Dias (Board of Water Supply); Regina Malepeai (Mayor Rick Blangiardi); Councilmember Scott Nishimoto and Kylie Tokujo (City Council District 5); Kīele Amundson (Governor Green’s Representative); Arisa Barcinas (CRB Response Team); Jessica Miura (State Department of Agriculture and Biodiversity); Robbie Snyder (Oahu Invasive Species Committee); Ross Isokane (Housing Now! Coalition); Lei Hoʻopiʻi, Dahlia Asuega, Ruy B., Beverly Mau (Residents); Camilia Epa Gomes (Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO). Note: Name was not included if not legible. There were 31 total participants.
2. MONTHLY REPORTS – [0:00:53]
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – [0:01:00]: Firefighter Vares from Pālolo Fire Station highlighted the following:
• October 2025 Statistics: 1 nuisance fire, 1 activated alarm (no fire), 25 medical emergencies, 4 motor vehicle crash/collisions, and 1 hazardous materials incident.
• Safety Tip – Holiday Cooking Safety: Stay alert while cooking; if sleepy or consuming alcohol, avoid using the stove; remain in the kitchen; never leave heated appliances unattended; use a timer; keep combustibles (oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels) away from stovetop; keep children/pets at least 3 feet from cooking areas.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PnDB9nA0zbul7pH14AslKl_4bDNK6UWO/view?usp=drive_link
Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – [0:03:22]: No representative present.
Honolulu Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [0:03:47]: Dominic highlighted the following:
• Main Breaks: No main breaks reported for October 2025.
• Waiomao Homestead Road 8-inch Waterline: Final chlorination and activation is still pending, then Palolo WSI Part III Contractor will mobilize to begin work.
• Follow-up: BWS construction branch will coordinate with Pālolo Chinese Home for any brief service interruptions and may provide temporary water service/water wagons as needed.
3. BOARD BUSINESS – [0:05:15]
Approval of Minutes for Wednesday, October 8, 2025 – [0:05:15]: Nakayama MOVED and Hack SECONDED to approve the October 2025 minutes. Hearing no objections, the motion was ADOPTED; 7-0-0 (Aye: Aronson, Hack, Hanamura, Leo, Nakayama, Shiraki, Asuega-Fualaau; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [0:05:35].
Filling of Vacancies – [0:05:39]: Chair Asuega-Fualaau announced vacancies in the following areas: one (1) At-Large, one (1) Sub-district One, and two (2) Sub-district Two. No volunteers at this time.
Board Participation in the Honolulu City Lights Parade: Chair Asuega-Fualaau shared the Neighborhood Commission Office is inviting the board to walk in the Honolulu City Lights Parade and asked interested board members to inform her.
Department of Parks & Recreation Dog Park Community Input – [0:07:28]: Chair Asuega-Fualaau asked if there were any comments or concerns regarding the DPR letter requesting for community feedback about allowing dog access at Pālolo Valley District Park and the Waiomao Slide Area. The city expects to announce selected parks in January 2026. Board recommendation is due by November 21, 2025.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:09:03]:
1. Field Space Conflicts and Alternative Locations: Resident Lei Hoʻopiʻi expressed concern about field availability for existing leagues (flag football, softball, soccer, baseball, students) and suggested considering the underutilized tennis court area for dog access due to safety concerns with unleashed dogs. The Chair thanked her for the input and indicated they would seek answers and record her concerns.
2. Competing Uses at District Park: Dahlia (resident) supported exploring alternative sites (e.g., Waiomao Slide Area) rather than Pālolo District Park due to space competition.
3. Possible Location within Pālolo District Park: HFD Firefighter Vares observed heavy park use and noted dog owners commonly use mornings. He suggested the southeast corner near the monkeypod tree (overgrown area that recently had a brush fire) as a possible enclosed dog area with nearby parking.
4. PRESENTATIONS – [0:14:17]
Empty Homes Tax – [0:14:17]: Ross Isokane (Housing Now! Coalition) highlighted the following:
• Context: Advocated for Honolulu’s Empty Homes Tax to address housing availability; stated 1 in 4 homes sold go to outside investors; tax aimed primarily at non-resident investors; more than 15 exemptions protect residents, including exemptions for a second local home; and status at City Council.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:18:10]:
1. Request for Resolution: Board Member Hack asked for a resolution to be provided. Mr. Isokane confirmed and referenced the Board’s Google Drive where a draft resolution is available.
2. Bill Status and Prospects: The Chair asked about the bill’s current status and prospects for passage. Mr. Isokane explained that the bill passed second reading and committee hearings, and a straw poll shows roughly four members in favor and five on the fence or against; five votes are needed to pass third reading.
3. Board Next Steps: Board members suggested taking one month to research, solicit perspectives from Councilmember Nishimoto and Representative Sayama, and gather Pālolo community sentiment before voting. There was general agreement to defer action to the next meeting. No vote taken.
Coqui Frogs and Coconut Rhinoceros Beetles – Why They Matter to Our Kūpuna [0:22:03]: Board Member Nakayama introduced guest speakers addressing Coqui frog and Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) issues affecting the valley’s kūpuna and community.
• Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB): Arisa Barcinas (CRB Response Team) highlighted the following: impacts; lifecycle and spread; prevention tips; and control.
• Coqui Frogs: Jessica Miura (Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Biodiversity) highlighted the following: Coqui population status in Pālolo; current response efforts within Pālolo Valley district; impacts; and how to help.
• Legislative Perspective: Representative Jackson Sayama (House District 21) highlighted his field experience and 2025 session legislation.
• Strategy and Community Role: Robbie Snyder (Oʻahu Invasive Species Committee) highlighted the invasive species curve, tactics, and cultural impacts to kūpuna and disruption of soundscapes.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:45:15]:
1. Everyday CRB Control Methods: Board Member Nakayama asked what homeowners can do when they encounter CRB beetles or larvae. Ms.Barcinas explained that freezing is the most humane and effective method, or crushing if necessary; for palms, use crown netting and appropriate contact or systemic chemicals; for breeding sites, use hot composting or 24-hour submersion for small soil bags; recent state funding will allow the program to provide netting to interested homeowners.
2. Citric Acid Budget Sufficiency: Board Member Hack asked if there is sufficient budget to purchase needed citric acid and what is done in Puerto Rico. Jessica Amira/Mura (HDOA Plant Quarantine) explained that citric acid purchases are the primary use of the coqui program budget; funding increased this fiscal year but citric acid is costly and sourced from the mainland; in Puerto Rico, coqui are culturally significant and conserved, whereas in Hawai’i they are invasive and controlled.
3. Board Support: Chair Asuega-Fualaau asked if there is anything the Board can do to support their efforts. Ms. Miura encouraged everyone to stay diligent and not to overlook them even if it doesnʻt directly affects where you live. She added that consistent support and advocating for their projects helps continue their efforts.
4. Acknowledgments and Jurisdictional Notes: Councilmember Nishimoto affirmed strong support; noted invasive species is primarily a State responsibility (DAB and shipping ports), while City Council helps disseminate information and route reports (e.g., developer’s infested trees were replaced).
5. RESIDENTS’/COMMUNITY CONCERNS – [0:58:00]: No concerns at this time.
6. ELECTED OFFICIALS – [0:58:14]
Congressman Ed Case’s Representative – [0:58:15]: No representative present.
Councilmember Scott Nishimoto – [0:58:20]: Councilmember Nishimoto announced:
• Pālolo Valley District Park Outdoor Court Lighting: City Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) reports additional funds were needed for design; City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) approved negotiation and a consultant was selected on August 14, 2025; designs are in progress; DPR awaits further action from DDC and consultant.
• To sign-up for Councilmember Nishimoto’s e-blast please go to: http://eepurl.com/dl6xMz
• For questions or concerns please email: scott.nishimoto@honolulu.gov or call the office at 808-768-5005.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:59:24]
1. Pālolo Valley District Park Outdoor Court Lighting Details: Chair Asuega-Fualaau asked for more details to ensure funds align with highest-use park needs (e.g., underutilized back tennis courts vs. needs like gym bleachers/tables/chairs). Councilmember Nishimoto agreed to report back next month and suggested a January discussion to align Board priorities with the City’s Fiscal Year budget process.
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [1:02:30]: Regina Malepeai highlighted the following:
• November 2025 Newsletter Highlights: Skyline Segment 2 service opening; sewer rate changes effective January 1, 2026; Royal Hawaiian Band free concert Friday, November 28, 2025 at Neal Blaisdell Concert Hall; and Honolulu Hale tree lighting Saturday, November 29, 2025.
• Follow up on Transit Fares: The City Department of Transportation Services (DTS) shared the City Council sets transit fares based on recommendations from the Rate Commission, administration, and public testimony; there is no specific publication date available at this time.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10AnK-m4nhfvbg0r2loIue7hHJZTmONR7/view?usp=sharing
Governor Josh Green’s Representative – [1:04:54]: Kīele Amundson highlighted the following:
• Food Support: The State partnered with public libraries to collect canned/non-perishable donations; HI-EMA and the National Guard assist with transport to Hawai’i Foodbank; collections through Saturday, November 22, 2025.
• Pālolo Valley Emergency Siren Update: The siren is in operable condition since September 15, 2025; monthly tests occurred October 1 and November 3.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OzdLDDbPBYxqTUBYfIEVP-tCMtnjJBXS/view?usp=drive_link
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:06:54]
1. SNAP Benefits: Board Member Hack asked about the status of SNAP amide federal actions. Ms. Amundson noted the Hawaiʻi Emergency Food Assistance Program and Rent/Utility Assistance Program; indicated she would follow up with specifics.
2. Siren Audibility Concern: Board Member Shiraki noted the siren volume is too low inside homes and requested consideration of an additional siren location to improve audibility in the valley. Representative Amundson acknowledged the concern.
Representative Jackson Sayama – [1:11:]: Representative Sayama highlighted the following:
• SNAP/Federal Update: Noted that SNAP funding is secured for another year via the continuing resolution; Hawai’i provided a one-time $250 emergency food benefit per person; a separate eligibility-based rental/utility relief program is available online; and residents can use https://findhelp.org/ for resources.
• Community Events/Workdays: Thanksgiving community music event Tuesday, November 23, 2025 at Kaimuki District Park (2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.); recent cleanups along Wai’alae Ave. and Pālolo Stream; joint Azama Park cleanup with Councilmember Nishimoto collected >30 bags of green waste; future cleanup likely in February 2026.
• 2026 Session Preparation: Office is collecting legislative ideas; addressing feral chickens (adjust protections, fund city contracts for capture/eradication) is a current priority.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:16:00]
1. Siren Audibility Concern: Board Member Shiraki reiterated the importance of addressing the audibility of the emergency siren in Pālolo Valley.
Senator Les Ihara, Jr. – [1:19:04]: No representative present at this time.
7. ANNOUNCEMENTS – [1:19:11]
NCO and Toys for Tots – Toy Drive: Neighborhood Assistant Camilia Epa Gomes is collecting new, unwrapped children’s toys at tonight’s meeting.
Next Meetings – Pālolo Neighborhood Board No. 6: The next regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at Pālolo Elementary School and online via WebEx.
ʻŌlelo Rebroadcasts: Rebroadcasts of the Pālolo Neighborhood Board No.6 meetings are scheduled each month on ʻŌlelo channel 49 on the fourth Thursday at 9:00 p.m. and the first and third Sundays at 12:00 p.m. and that an archive of meetings may be found on https://olelo.org/olelonet/ by searching <Palolo>.
8. ADJOURNMENT – [1:20:49] The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
Submitted by: Camilia Epa Gomes, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, NCO
Finalized by: Darlene Nakayama, Secretary, Neighborhood Board No.6
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.